If the film Castaway looked like your idea of heaven, check the best island breaks in the world...
Mauritius
This idyllic island in the middle of the Indian Ocean is a tropical paradise that is the destination of choice for many couples on their honeymoon. The soft white sands and crystal clear waters are irresistible. Enjoy wild nights in Grand Bay in the north and a lush green paradise further south. The mix of culture is eclectic, with various religions living harmoniously together on this island haven. Head to Mauritius to relax and unwind, you will forget all you troubles within hours of arrival.
Mount Teide, Tenerife
Home to the highest point in Spain, that also just happens to be a dormant volcano, Tenerife s stunning landscape has sweeping valleys dotted with remote villages perched on the cliff-side perfect for walking holidays. Water sports are in abundance here and the diving offers the chance to explore the unique volcanic underwater lava tubes which house an array of tropical marine life. Adventurers need look no further for their ideal island escape.
Mount Teide, Tenerife
Home to the highest point in Spain, that also just happens to be a dormant volcano, Tenerife s stunning landscape has sweeping valleys dotted with remote villages perched on the cliff-side perfect for walking holidays. Water sports are in abundance here and the diving offers the chance to explore the unique volcanic underwater lava tubes which house an array of tropical marine life. Adventurers need look no further for their ideal island escape.
Tobago
Traditional Caribbean holidays are the order of the day in Tobago. Take after Jacques Cousteau and try diving or snorkeling in the sparkling clear waters, there are incredible reefs here that are home to some fascinating marine life. Don t miss out on a trip to Sunday School just don t expect to go to church! These are lively street parties where the rum flows freely and the dancing carries on until dawn!
Kefalonia
Scores of unspoilt beaches, varying from golden sand to china-white pebble, make Kefalonia a treasure to those who live there and a hideout for those who ve already caught on. Cameron Diaz is reported to be a lover of this peaceful island and the marina on the east is evidence enough that yacht lovers are in on the secret too. As one of the greenest, and largest of the Ionian Islands, there is plenty of natural beauty to wonder at. Check out the bottomless Mellisani Cave with its otherworldly blue depths.
Lanzarote
Head to Puerto de la Cruz in the north to experience the ecological paradise that is Lanzarote. You will find spectacular sunsets that light up the mountains in a reddish glow, fishing villages that have been untouched for centuries and intricate buildings built into lava tunnels left behind from 18th Century eruptions. Only four hours away from the UK, Lanzarote makes for a perfect island getaway.
Cala D'or, Majorca
Majorca is reclaiming its glamorous past and many are starting to take a different view of this Balearic beauty. Whilst the gorgeous natural settings have never disappeared, visitors are swapping their buckets and spades for designer handbags and sunglasses. Majorca has seen whirlwind change in the past two years, with an influx of luxury hotels, chic designer boutiques and an uprising of renowned restaurants. Visitors can escape on a cosmopolitan weekend away in the cultural capital, Palma, or relax on the quiet coast of Soller with holidays to Majorca.
Cyprus
With its own unique blend of Cypriot, Turkish and Greek influences, Cyprus is a place to soak up culture as well as the sun. Though it s famous for the Ayia Napa clubbing scene, there s much more to this island. Paphos boasts the Rock of Aphrodite and the Byzantine Museum, whilst the coastline around Polis boasts untouched natural beauty and is scattered with secluded coves. If you re a fan of this season s lace trend a la Prada and Dolce & Gabbana, then a visit to the rustic lace-making village of Kato Lefkara (between Limassol and Larnaca) where workers take up to three months to hand-make designs. It's a must.
Grenada
One of the Caribbean s most authentic islands, Grenada has a traditional off the beaten track feel to it. The waterfalls here are breath-taking and it is well worth hiring a local guide as many of the most amazing spots aren t signposted. The local Grenadian residents are so welcoming that you ll feel relaxed in their company - expect to get involved in some sort of dancing! If it is history that you re after, then Grenada has its very own cricket museum, the only one of its kind. Stay at La Source if you want utter relaxation - TV s and WiFi are banned!
Ibiza
The White Isle may be known for its amazing parties, but for bohemian breaks in the sun, you will be hard pushed to find a more relaxed, hedonistic atmosphere. Ibiza has a sleepy side too. Expect to see small gatherings on the beaches, low-key al fresco dinners and even the odd modern theatre performance. Kick back in style at one of the sophisticated beach clubs during the day, before exploring the Old Town s cultural richness at night.
Blue Lagoon Comino Island, Malta
Once perceived as an out dated choice, the island of Malta is now emerging as one of the most fashionable places to visit in Europe. Holidays to Malta offer fantastic spa resorts, specialising in Thalassotherapy treatments and Mediterranean mud wraps. Take a day trip to the exotic beaches located on one of the surrounding islands and relax in the warm waters of Comino s famous Blue Lagoon. The nightlife in Malta has grown with Creamfields and Ministry of Sound regularly holding events in the amazing open-air nightclubs. Stay in the coastal resort of Sliema for an unforgettable break close to the best Malta has to offer.
15 BEST EXOTIC WEEKEND BREAKS
