Exotic destinations in Europe
European countries closer to the Mediterranean Sea, including Portugal, Italy, Spain, Greece and some parts of France, offer travellers seeking a better weather and coastlines, alternative exotic destinations to Asia, Africa and the Middle East.
Venice, Italy
Portugal is Europe most popular exotic destination, offering holiday resorts including:
The Islands Azores - in the Mid-Atlantic region with volcanic landscapes, whales and geothermal spas
Madeira, also known as the "Island of Eternal Spring" - in the Atlantic Island region, is known for its Subtropical forests, cliffs, and flowers
Costa Vicentina (Alentejo & Algarve west coast) in South West Portugal, offers beautify and remote beaches for travellers who want to indulge in surfing
Sintra - near Lisbon, is known for its misty forests, esoteric architecture, palaces, parks and monuments including the Sanctuary of Peninha, Cabo da Roca Lighthouse, Chalet and Garden of the Countess of Edla, Park and National Palace of Pena, Park and Palace of Monserrate and The Moorish Castle, to name but a few.
Portugal and Islands
Where to stay on your holiday in Portugal
Most exotic destinations in Portugal offer luxury hotels and accommodation to satisfy your budget requirement. Where you lodge will ultimately depend on the region of Portugal you decide to visit and what activities you intend to undertake.
The White Exclusive Suite & Villas
The White Exclusive Suite & Villas in Ponta Delgada, in the Islands of Azores, Portugal, offers travellers a beautiful waterfront view from the hotel's spacious pool area, surrounded by clean lines and large windows. The hotel offers a relaxing atmosphere under the ocean gentle breeze. Guests can enjoy their dinner and breakfast outdoor with the sea view.
This stunning apartment is situated in Ponta Delgada in the Island of Azores, near Ponta Delgada Harbour and 9 minutes walk from Ponta Delgada Marina.
This is a smoke-free 2 bedroom and 2 bathrooms apartment with laundry facilities, ideal for a family holiday.
The Azores (Açores) Islands, Portugal
Sintra, Lisbon District, Portugal
Almaria Edifício da Corte
Situated in Sintra in the Lisbon District (Portugal), Almaria Edifício da Corte is a 4-star Aparthotel with spa services, air-conditioning, free WiFi and room service. The property is located 9 minutes drive from the LIS-Humberto Delgado airport, Lisbon.
Casa do Cruzeiro
Casa do Cruzeiro offers 3-star accommodation in Sintra in the Lisbon district. Guests get free Internet, a swimming pool, concierge and laundry services. The Lisbon (LIS-Humberto Delgado) airport is 22 minutes drive away.
Iberostar Selection Lagos Algarve in Portugal
Situated in Lagos, Algarve (Portugal), this hotel offers stunning views and a tranquil beachfront setting with easy access to Lagos' charming attractions. Travellers who like luxury will find everything they seek, with the spacious rooms, a sumptuous breakfast buffet, and expansive pool areas perfect for relaxation. The resort is just 21 minutes drive from the Portimao (PRM) airport.
Guests can also enjoy the dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, sea caves, Moorish history, and Bohemian vibe of Algarve in addition to the many attractions including Ponta da Piedade (Headland of Mercy), Praia do Camilo, Benagil Cave, kayaking or boat tours to hidden caves & beaches, Old Town of Lagos with whitewashed houses, Moorish walls, and tiled facades.
Travellers can also enjoy the local cuisine of fresh octopus, grilled sardines, clams in garlic, and local vinho verde or sangria at beach restaurants that feel indulgent and authentically exotic.
Cliffside elegance with Atlantic views surrounded by lush palm trees
The resort is located in a nature reserve and on the beach. Travellers can take advantage of the beach towels at the sandy beach, experience the magic of ocean-view dining with a memorable meal at the restaurant. Some of the popular nearby activities worth checking out include snorkelling and parasailing.
The Vila Vita Parc resort, is a cliffside elegance with Atlantic views surrounded by lush palm trees and flowering shrubs. Guests can delight in multiple immaculate pools, fantastic on-site dining, and exceptional service for a truly relaxing and pampering experience.
France
What makes France, an exotic holiday destination?
Unlike tropical islands with warm temperatures, high humidity, and abundant rainfall, lush vegetation, palm trees, sandy beaches, and diverse wildlife, France does have an exotic appeal based on its cultural richness and variety embodied in its romantic allure, gastronomic culture, historic and architectural wonders (Castles and châteaux, Roman ruins & Gothic cathedrals), mediterranean beaches (e.g. Côte d’Azur), island escapes (e.g. Corsica) and mountain escapes such as the French Alpes and Pyrenees. The French affaire with fashion and design, offers an unresistible sophistication to trevellers.
France Côte d’Azur / French Riviera
Also known as the French Riviera, Côte d’Azur registers over 11 million tourists yearly, making it the second most popular tourist destination in France behind Paris.
Geographically, the Côte d’Azur is a coastal region in the southeast of France, along the Mediterranean Sea, bordering Italy to the east. It is constituted of Monaco (sovereign city-state ruled by Albert II, Prince of Monaco), the Alpes-Maritimes Department (including Nice, Cannes, Antibes, Grasse, Èze & Saint-Paul-de-Vence), Var Department (including Saint-Tropez, Sainte-Maxime, Fréjus, and Hyères and Porquerolles Island), and finally, Bouches-du-Rhône Department that covers Marseille and Cassis.
Côte d’Azur is a naturally gifted child. It inherits its stunning natural beauty and mild climate from its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea. Naturally, prestige and glamour come visiting with the Jet-set lifestyle that attracts the royalty, celebrities, the ultrarich and the multi-millionaires. It is worth noting Côte d’Azur's artistic and cultural heritage due to its association with well-known artists such as Picasso, Matisse, and Chagall.
Villefranche-sur-Mer, a resort town in the Alpes-Maritimes department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region on the French Riviera, photo by Valentina Rossoni on Pexels
Where to lodge in the Côte d’Azur/French Riviera
Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel
The Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat Four Seasons Hotel, is situated in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, a picturesque peninsula on the Côte d'Azur, near Nice. Perched on a cliff, this stunning 5-star property with breathtaking views and a serene, romantic atmosphere offers guests class and luxury. With its famous Belle Époque architecture, the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat represents a blend of the old and new world. Guests can delight in the pool overlooking the sea, fabulous poolside dining, and exceptional service that ensures every detail is perfect.
Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel, 71 Boulevard du Général de Gaulle, 06230 Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France.
Hôtel Le Yaca Saint-Tropez
The 5-star Hôtel Le Yaca is a hidden gem in the historic village of Saint-Tropez. It is the ideal destination for travellers looking for serenity. Stylish and vibrant, this property offers breathtaking terrace views and easy access to lively St. Tropez attractions. Guests can delight in exceptional dining, private beach access, and a charming open-air transport buggy for a truly memorable stay. Among the many attractions in Saint-Tropez, are the following:
Beaches and seasides including Plage de Pampelonne (Saint-Tropez's most famous beach), Plage des Graniers (ideal for quiet retreat) and Plage de la Bouillabaisse.
Historic and Cultural Sights including Citadel of Saint-Tropez (La Citadelle), Place des Lices, and the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption.
Art and Museums including Musée de l'Annonciade Galerie Azur.
Harbours and yachts, designer boutiques
Events and festivals including Les Bravades de Saint-Tropez, Saint-Tropez Polo Club, etc.
Some of the best places to dine in Saint-Tropez include:
Musée du Louvre, Rue de Rivoli, Île-de-France, 75001 Paris, (photo by Gloria Villa on Unsplash) — see nearby hotels
Hôtel La Ponche
Hôtel La Ponche, 5 RUE DES REMPARTS 83990 SAINT-TROPEZ
From a "fisherman bar" to a 5-star hotel, Hôtel La Ponche is a stylish and vibrant resort that offers breathtaking terrace views and easy access to lively St. Tropez attractions. Guests can delight in exceptional dining, private beach access, and a charming open-air transport buggy for a truly memorable stay.
Hôtel La Ponche is a beach hotel near St. Tropez Harbour. It has an on-site restaurant overlooking the ocean. The restaurant specialises in local cuisine and serves continental breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests can order drinks at the bar and enjoy al fresco dining (weather permitting). Guests can also visit landmarks near La Place des Lices, including Marché de St. Tropez, the Chapelle de la Miséricorde, and the Rue Georges Clemenceau in addition to the Butterfly Museum, Park Saint-Tropez, and Le Brigantin II. Other landmarks include Place De La Petanque, White 1921 Saint-Tropez, Airelles Saint-Tropez, and Pan Dei Palais.
Corsica (la Corse)
Situated in southeast of the French mainland, west of the Italian Peninsula and immediately north of the Italian island of Sardinia, Corsica (French: La Corse) is an island of rugged mountains and pristine beaches in the Mediterranean Sea, a geographical location that makes Corsica feels entirely different from the mainland France.
Currently, Paris registers around 19 million visitors annually, with the French Riviera (“Côte d'Azur”) coming second with around 10 million visitors. Although Corsica only draws around 3 million visitors annually, it is often celebrated as one of France’s most "exotic" holiday destinations. Corsica is for travellers seeking an exotic but less crowded experience.
Among the many exotic attractions in Corsica, are the following:
Scandola Nature Reserve (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Restonica Valley and Lac de Melo/Lac de Capitello
Where to lodge in Corsica
Corsica offers beautiful and luxury resorts that travellers can choose from, including Casadelmar, Hotel Pitrizza, 7Pines Resort Sardinia-A Destination By Hyatt, to name but a few.
Situated in serene Porto-Vecchio, hotel Casadelmar is a 5-star retreat blending minimalist architecture with lush Mediterranean gardens and stunning bay views. Architecturally, Casadelmar contemporary wood-and-glass design and tranquil gardens are seamlessly integrated into the hillside, enveloped by olive, cypress, myrtle and rockrose. The Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Casadelmar, presents creative Mediterranean cuisine (sea bass/spider crab cannelloni is a must-try).
All rooms have free Internet access via WiFi. Internet access is also available in some public areas. Guests can take advantage of the airport shuttle service and a swimming pool. Breakfast is served for a fee. Guests can enjoy al fresco dining (weather permitting). Casadelmar is an up-market resort but an ideal destination for travellers seeking luxury, design flair, Michelin-level dining, and an exclusive spa/beach escape.
Other resorts in Corsica
Set in peaceful gardens, this stylish 4-star property offers a serene escape with panoramic views from your balcony. Enjoy two exquisite pools, one with a bar, and savour delicious cuisine that exceeds expectations.
Exceptional service by the staff, an outdoor pool that provides a refreshing retreat under the open sky, nearby attractions include Place Place Pascal Poli, Église Paroissiale, Parc de Saleccia, L’Île‑Rousse Beach, Port de L’Île‑Rousse, and Île de la Pietra (Old Lighthouse)
This 5-star hotel is set in gorgeous surroundings and stunning views. Guests can delight in the serene spa and rooftop pool
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This 5-star hotel is set in gorgeous surroundings and stunning views. Guests can delight in the serene spa and rooftop pool
Greece
Santorini, South Aegean, Greece
Located in southeastern Europe and specifically on the southern tip of the Balkan Peninsula, Greece generally has a Mediterranean climate characterised by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers with temperatures often reaching the high 30s°C, especially in the mainland and islands in summer.
Its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, sunny beaches and whitewashed villages, deep history, and vibrant culture, make Greece one of the most exotic holiday destinations in Europe. Greece has over 6,000 islands and islets (including Santorini, Mykonos, Crete to name but a few), turquoise waters and pink sand beaches.
Greece is also known for its cultural vibe and lifestyle, its ancient history and mythology, its philosophers including Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle and well-known figures such as Heraclitus, Epicurus, Diogenes, Pythagoras, Democritus, Empedocles, and Zeno.
Greece represents a blend of Western and Eastern civilisation with influences from Byzantine, Ottoman, Venetian, and Roman civilisations to create a mosaic of architecture, religion, and design. This gives Greece a layered identity—Orthodox churches beside ancient temples, minarets near marble ruins.
Temple of Olympian Zeus, (photo from pexels) - see nearby hotels
Most popular exotic destinations in Greece
Santorini has a lot to offer as an exotic holiday destination. Santorini was the result of a volcanic eruption that left behind steep cliffs and picturesque villages overlooking a flooded caldera, created black and red sand beaches and hot springs.
Santorini is also home to the iconic Cycladic architecture with whitewashed houses with blue domes and narrow winding alleys. Travellers to Santorini can experience a unique cuisine (fava, tomatokeftedes, etc.) and wine (e.g. Assyrtiko wine).
Guests to Santorini can expect an exotic experience blended with class and luxury in private cliffside villas with infinity pools and caldera views, sunset catamaran cruises, spas carved into cave dwellings, quiet, adults-only accommodations ideal for honeymoons or romantic getaways.
Exotic resorts in Santorini
Kastelli Resort is considered an exotic holiday destination due to its prime location in Santorini (Greece), its luxury offerings, and serene ambiance. The resort is also located within walking distance (about 7 minutes’ walk) of Kamari Beach, one of Santorini's most famous black sand beaches. Kastelli Resort offers easy access to historical sites like Ancient Thera and iconic views of the Aegean Sea. The resort is surrounded by volcanic cliffs, elegant Cycladic whitewashed architecture with modern comforts, and deep-blue waters—classic elements of Santorini's exotic charm.
Guests can delight in lush and secluded and quiet ambience, private Jacuzzis or plunge pools, private patios, spa services, tennis courts, and a gourmet restaurant. The exotic experience will not be complete without the Mediterranean and Greek cuisine with local ingredients. The resort’s closeness to wineries and traditional villages provides a blend of relaxation and cultural exploration. Exotic holidaymakers to Kastelli Resort are treated with breathtaking sunrise/sunset views over the sea or mountains.
If you are looking for a quiet and serene holiday as a couple, either for honeymoons, anniversaries, or as a romantic getaway, Kastelli Resort is for you. You will get the chance to recharge your battery, indulge in great spas and calm environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. The resort is also ideal for travellers who want to explore the island's beaches, archaeological sites, and caldera views. Overall, travellers to Kastelli Resort enjoy class and luxury with high-end amenities, personalised service, without feeling overly commercial.
Ammoudi Bay, Santorini, Greece
Other resorts in Santorini
You & Me Cove Imerovigli (Imerovigli 0, Imerovigli 847 00, Greece): “You & Me Cove Imerovigli” in Greece is a unique exotic holiday destination mainly due to its intimate luxury, breathtaking setting in Santorini, and tailored romantic experience. It is not just holiday accommodation. It is also an immersive experience in one of the world’s most iconic island landscapes. With romantic privacy, high-end design, and unforgettable views, it embodies the very essence of an exotic, luxurious escape.es, smoke-free property
Liostasi Hotel (Ios Cyclades, 84001, Greece): Located in the Greek Ios Island and on an Ancient hillside, the Liostasi Hotel offers breathtaking sea views over the Aegean Sea. It is an ideal exotic destination for couples as a romantic getaway for honeymoon or anniversaries but also for families looking for a quiet retreat to spend time together. Whatever the objective, holidaymakers find class and luxury in the 5-star service offerred by the hotel.
Andronis Concept Wellness Resort (Imerovigli, Santorini, Santorini Island, 84702): the Andronis Concept Wellness Resort offers an elevated wellness sanctuary set on Santorini’s most romantic coast. With its tranquil architecture, private pool suites, holistic spas including the Kallos Spa (the largest spa in Santorini, with two pools), mindful cuisine, and immersive experiences, it feels like a personal retreat for both relaxation and rejuvenation for exotic travellers. Guests can enjoy spectacular Caldera & Aegean Sea views from a cliff-top hideaway. This resort ranks among the most exotic escapes on the Santorini island.
Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Santorini is the incarnation of an exotic holiday destination, blending natural grandeur, luxurious design, and immersive experiences to create a sanctuary unlike any other on Oia’s iconic cliffs.
Mystique is a luxurious Greek hideaway blending dramatic natural beauty, cliffside elegance with stunning Santorini views, world-class dining, serene wellness, and refined design. It captures the essence of an exotic escape on Santorini, offering breathtaking views, elevated service, and intimate luxury in every detail.
Santorini Island, the Crete region and Mykonos constitute the main exotic holiday destinations in Greece.
Caveat: this property is currently mislabelled on Expedia as "A luxurious retreat, primely located with stunning panoramic view!"
Italy
Unlike tropical islands with warm temperatures, high humidity, and abundant rainfall, lush vegetation, palm trees, sandy beaches, and diverse wildlife, Italy can be seen as an exotic holiday destination due to the following factors:
Cultural & artistic history - Italy is known for its ancient ruins, renaissance art, medieval towns, and Baroque palaces offer a deep dive into human history and creativity. Cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence are open-air museums—fascinating, surreal, and often unlike anything travellers have experienced before.
Unique Landscapes - on the Amalfi Coast for example, clifftop villages with lemon groves, turquoise waters, and winding coastal roads—distinctly Mediterranean and jaw-dropping, can be found. In Italy, the Dolomites, AKA Dolomite Mountains, Dolomite Alps or Dolomitic Alps, form a mountain range with picturesque chalets, in northeastern Italy. The Islands of Sicily & Sardinia, with their exotic beaches, and Arab-Norman architecture, represent the attractions for travellers seeking an exotic experience in Europe.
Architecture: Greece has the Cycladic architecture with whitewashed buildings with blue domes, but Italy has its own. Italy’s blend of Moorish, Byzantine, Roman, and Renaissance architecture feels ancient and unique.
Cuisine and lifestyle: Italy has conquered the world with its culinary diversity, ranging from the Neapolitan pizza and Tuscan truffles to Sicilian street food and Venetian seafood. In terms of lifestyle, Italians take it easy. With the “dolce vita” lifestyle—slower pace, stylish locals, daily rituals of coffee, walks, and long dinners — can feel beautifully foreign and rejuvenating.
Courtyard of the Doge's Palace, facing the St. Mark's Basilica, Venice, Italy - [see nearby hotels] - photo from pexels.com
Most popular exotic destinations in Italy
Aeolian Islands (Sicily) - volcanic islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea with black sand beaches, lava flows, and ancient fishing villages. Some examples include the Stromboli’s active volcano, thermal mud baths in Volcano, chic Panarea.
Sardinia (Costa Smeralda & the South) - Turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and inland areas with Nuragic ruins and prehistoric culture. Some examples include Cala Luna, La Maddalena Archipelago, Cagliari, Su Nuraxi ruins.
Pantelleria (off the coast of Sicily) - Closer to Africa than Italy — feels raw, windblown, and untouched. Some of the highlights of this area include the Dammusi stone homes, thermal or hot springs, capers and zibibbo wine as well as the volcanic landscapes and breathtaking sea views.
Matera (Basilicata) - A UNESCO-listed city of stone cave dwellings (Sassi), used in ancient times and now converted into hotels. Some of the highlights include the rock churches, cave hotels and moon-like terrain.
Palermo & Western Sicily - represents a crossroad of Arab, Norman, Greek, and Italian cultures. Some of the highlights include Byzantine mosaics, bustling souks, street food, and coastal towns like Cefalù and Erice. This exotic destination is for travellers who love cultures, culinary experience, architecture and diversity.
Amalfi Coast & Capri - known for iconic cliffside villages and Mediterranean glamour. The main attractions include Positano, Ravello, the Blue Grotto, hiking the Path of the Gods. These destinations are ideal for honeymooners, photographers, luxe coastal escapes.
The Dolomites (South Tyrol) - jagged mountain peaks, alpine-meets-Italian culture, and Michelin-star dining in high-altitude refuges. Some of the attractions inclde Lake Braies, Alpe di Siusi, Cortina d’Ampezzo. These destinations are ideal for nature lovers, hikers, skiing with style.
Lecce & Salento (Puglia) - often called the “Florence of the South”, Lecce features intricate baroque architecture, while Salento offers sun-bleached beaches and small fishing towns. Travellers can explore Gallipoli, Otranto, sandy Ionian beaches. This region has warmth, charm and ideal for travellers seeking serenity and tranquility.
Procida Island (Campania) - this is a tiny, colourful island with pastel houses and almost no tourists. Some of the attractions include Marina Corricella, slow life and fresh seafood. It is an ideal destination for travellers seeking relaxation and serenity. It is ideal for couples looking for a romantic Mediterranean escape.
Verona & Lake Garda's Eastern Shore - romance, history, and olive tree-covered hills meet lakeside beaches and thermal spas. Tourists can explore the Scaligero Castle, Malcesine or Monte Baldo. These destinations are known for their fairytale settings with water and wine.
Exotic Urban Escapes - Venice (but explore the islands like Burano & Torcello): Floating city magic with hidden lagoon corners. Travellers can enjoy Rome at night or underground tours, discover ancient ruins, hidden catacombs, and eerie layers of history.
Situated in the Aeolian Islands, Sicily, Italy, the cottage "Rustico E Casale" in Gioiosa Marea, impresses guests with its fantastic views. The 2-storey property consists of a living room, a kitchen, 6 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms and can therefore accommodate 14 people, which is ideal for a group travel. Additional amenities include Wi-Fi, a TV, as well as a washing machine. A baby cot is also available.
Located in the Aeolian Islands, Sicily, Italy, the holiday home "La Casa Di Wioletta" is situated in Barcellona and overlooks the nearby sea. The 120 m² property consists of a living room with a sofa bed for 2 people with a French orthopaedic mattress, a fully-equipped kitchen, 3 bedrooms (one with orthoptic mattress) and 1 bathroom and can accommodate 8 people. Among the on-site amenities are high-speed Wi-Fi (suitable for video calls), a dedicated workspace for home office, a smart TV with streaming services, air conditioning, a fan, a washing machine, a capsule coffee machine and a selection of children's books and toys. A private gym and gym equipment are available on the property. A baby cot is also provided.
Located in the Aeolian Islands, Sicily, Italy, this resort presents an elegant design and serene surroundings near the port and creates a tranquil escape. Guests can delight in amazing breakfast and dinner, sommelier-selected wines, and memorable spa treatments. The on-site spa has a variety of ways to relax and unwind. It offers in-room and Swedish massages. Types of treatments available include aromatherapy, body scrubs, facials, and manicures/pedicures. Other on-site facilities include a steam room and a sauna.
Therasia Resort Sea & Spa (Localita' Vulcanello, Vulcano, Lipari, ME, 98050)
Villa PANTOGIA is located on the hill of Pantogia in Porto Cervo with a magic Sea view on the Pevero bay. All shops and restaurants of Porto Cervo are reachable with a short drive. The villa sits on an uphill position and grants also quick access to many beaches and the Cala di Volpe area.
This villa is ideal for a family travel, as they will have the whole villa for themselves. There are 9 luxury Bedrooms villa, of which 7 guest bedrooms and 2 staff bedrooms. Guests also have access to a 140 square metre swimming pool together with a separate sun deck of 60 square metre equipped with outdoor showers. The villa staff will be able to support guests in French, English and Italian.
Olbia airport(OLB-Costa Smeralda) is just 38 minutes away. Piccolo Pevero Beach is within 11 minutes walking distance. Marina di Porto Cervo and Capriccioli Beach are 4 and 8 minutes drive respectively.
Guests to Villa Porto Rotondo, will have the entire home to themselves. Located in northeastern Sardinia near the famed Costa Smeralda, Villa Porto Rotondo is one of Italy’s most elite resort areas. One of its attraction is its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea with crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush Mediterranean vegetation, and rugged granite coastline.
Guests can enjoy serenity and relax on the local beaches including Spiaggia Ira, Punta Volpe, and Marinella Bay. This holiday resort is ideal for families, group travel but also for couples.
Marina di Porto Cervo (19 min walk), Piccolo Pevero Beach (5 min drive) and Capriccioli Beach (11 min drive). The airport of Olbia (OLB-Costa Smeralda) which is 41 minutes drive from the resort is the nearest airport.
Spain
Spain is one of the European countries that enjoy a better climate than the rest of Europe due to its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea. There are many attractions in Spain based on its artistic, historic, linguistic, vibrant festivals, dramatic landscapes, and distinctive regional cultural richness.
Travellers to Spanish cities like Granada, Córdoba, and Seville in the Andalusia region, can enjoy similar weather like in North Africa. Some of the landmarks in Spain include the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Mezquita Cathedral in Córdoba and Alcázar of Seville, to name but a few.
Spain's diverse and dramatic landscapes offer travellers many attractions including beaches, deserts, volcanoes, mountains, and lush green coasts. For example, the Spanish Canary Islands (Spanish archipelago off the coast of northwestern Africa) are known for their volcanic, subtropical, African-feeling climate and geography while the Spanish Basque Country offers misty, green cliffs and dramatic sea views. Holidaymakers to Andalusia can enjoy sun-scorched plains and the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Exotic destinations in the Canary Islands
The Spanish Canary Islands geographical proximity to Africa (off the coast of Morocco) means that it can enjoy a subtropical climate with 20 to 28 degrees Celsius all year round, making it an exotic holiday destination for travellers who want to get away from winter cold weather.
The Islands offer a mix of European, African, and Latin American unique cultural influences, and diverse natural beauty. Home to Mount Teide in Tenerife, Spain's highest peak, the Canary Islands were formed by volcanoes, creating dramatic scenery.
Travellers can have an unforgettable lifetime experience visiting the main Canary Islands exotic holiday destinations including:
Spain's Balearic Islands (an archipelago in the western Mediterranean Sea, near the eastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula) offer some of the most popular holiday destinations, including:
Visit Spain and enjoy an unforgettable life experience the country's unique culinary cultures (the Tapas culture in Andalusia, Paella in Valencia, Seafood and cider in the north and Michelin-starred pintxos in San Sebastián. Travellers can also experience the country's diverse linguistic identities including Catalan, Euskara and Gallego in Galicia.
Bahia Playa apartments (Apartamentos Bahia Playa), Sn Alfonso Carrillo, Puerto de la Cruz, Canary Islands, 38400 (photo by Expedia)
Situated in Puerto de la Cruz on a volcanic coastline, the Bahia Playa apartments is built around subtropical gardens, with four outdoor pools—including a heated rooftop pool with panoramic views over the sea and even Mount Teide in the distance. The Bahia Playa resort is designed with guests' wellness and relaxation in mind, with a fitness centre, yoga and Pilates classes, sauna, Hammam, spa treatments, sports including tennis, mini golf, and aerobics. Some of the local landmarks include Loro Park (7 minutes walk away), Plaza del Charco (14 minutes walk away), and Taoro Park (14 minutes walk away). The nearest airport is Tenerife (TFS-Tenerife South) just over an hour from the resort.
Other exotic holiday resorts in Tenerife
Located in the South in Adeje, "Beautiful Villa" is suitable for group travel, families (with children) and friends as the guests get to use the entire property for themselves. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this 2-storey property consists of a living room, a well-equipped kitchen, 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms and can therefore accommodate 12 people. Additional amenities include high-speed Wi-Fi with a dedicated workspace for home office, a smart TV with streaming services, air conditioning, a fan, a washing machine, a dryer, a game console as well as children's books and toys. Furthermore, a pool table, gym equipment and a shared sauna are available on the property. 3 baby cots and 2 high chairs are also available. The villa is situated 6 minutes drive from Golf Costa Adeje, 9 minutes drive from Fañabé Beach, 13 minutes drive from El Duque Beach, and 22 minutes drive from Tenerife (TFS-Tenerife South) airport.
Located in Callao Salvaje on Tenerife’s southwest coast, "Villa Violet" blends privacy, comfort, and Canary-island charm in a way that stands out. The resort location in Callao Salvaje is just 700 metres from the Ajabo beach with local shops, cafés, and restaurants within easy walking distance. The Villa is an ideal resort for travellers seeking peace and tranquillity. In addition to privacy, guests at "Villa Violet", can enjoy spacious, well-equipped interiors
Travellers to "Villa Violet", can have the entire property to themselves and share it with friends and families whom they are travelling with. Guests can enjoy the sea and Mountain View from a covered terrace. There is also a BBQ and ample patio furniture for sunbathing or alfresco dining. Internally, the villa is fully equipped with fans in all rooms and air-conditioning. The nearest airport, Tenerife (TFS-Tenerife South), is 27 km away. Golf Costa Adeje, Fañabé Beach and El Duque Beach are within 10 to 15 minutes drive.
Located in the quiet village of Chayofa, near Arona, Villa Ginevra offers an excellent view of the sea and the mountains. It is an ideal venue for deal for large family gatherings, corporate retreats, or group holidays. The villa can comfortably accommodate up to 32 guests. The resort's amenities, including heated pool, jacuzzi, private sauna, and even a Turkish bath, offer guests a first class wellness experience.
Villa Ginevra is only 5 minutes drive from Siam Park, 7 minutes drive from Los Cristianos Beach, and 8 minutes drive from Fañabé Beach. The nearest airport, Tenerife (TFS-Tenerife South), also known as Reina Sofía Airport, the larger of the two international airports on the island of Tenerife, is only 16 minutes drive away from the Villa. This airport serves most European airlines.
Situated 125 kilometres (80 miles) off the north coast of Africa and 1,000 kilometres (600 miles) from the Iberian Peninsula, the Island of Lanzarote is the fourth-largest of the islands in the archipelago of Canary Islands. Of the 18 million Exotic Travellers to the Canary Islands in 2024, over 3 million of them visited the Island of Lanzarote thanks to its all-year-round subtropical weather, its extraordinary volcanic landscapes, cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism policies.
One of the highlight of the Island of Lanzarote, is the Montañas del Fuego (Fire Mountains in Timanfaya National Park) in addition to other attractions including Jameos del Agua, Cueva de los Verdes, Mirador del Río, and Jardín de Cactus. Lanzarote is also blessed with a rich cultural and artistic heritage incarnated in Lanzarote traditional villages like Yaiza, Teguise, and Soo.
The Island of Lanzarote is an ideal destination for Exotic Travellers curious about the island's underground caves and volcanic tunnels, or those who want to relax on secluded lava-formed beaches like Papagayo. Travellers can also experience a buggy tours through rugged terrain or stargaze in near-dark skies.
Lanzarote (Spain) a land carved over the Atlantic on fire and lava, photo by JP Files on Unsplash
The vacation home "Hipoclub Los Alisios 75" is a two-storey villa located on Calle Bélgica, Urb. Los Alisios, in Playa Blanca, Yaiza, offering southern and sea views toward Fuerteventura and Lobos Island. The villa is part of the Los Alisios development—a quiet elevated community of 78 detached villas with private pools and gardens. Guests can use the entire 4-bedroom property that can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests. This is ideal for group travel.
There is a fully-equipped modern kitchen, bright living room, al fresco dining area, and a pool table for indoor entertainment. Outdoor features include private pool, garden surrounded by volcanic stone walls, 3 covered and 3 open terraces, outdoor shower, balcony, and a barbecue area.
Hipoclub Los Alisios 75 is a stylish villa well-suited for relaxed, self-catered stays in Lanzarote. It offers sea & mountain views, privacy & space for groups, extensive outdoor living, self-contained comfort, and it is situated in a peaceful location. Nearby attractions include Aqualava Water Park (4 min drive), Playa Blanca (8 min drive) and Marina Rubicon (11 min drive). The nearest airport is Arrecife (ACE-Lanzarote) which is 40 min drive from the resort.
Chalet Casa Paula is a three-bedroom villa located in Los Ajaches, Yaiza, offering expansive sea views toward Fuerteventura and Lobos Island, as well as views of volcanic Montaña Roja and surrounding landscapes. The villa can accommodate up to 6 guests, who can use the entire place for themselves. In terms of indoors amenities, there is a fully-equipped kitchen (dishwasher, workspace), cosy living room. Entertainment options include: game console, karaoke setup, board games, satellite TV/DVD, sound system, disco lighting, and a dedicated gaming room with pool table, darts, and sofa beds.
Outdoors amenities include a heated pool with chromotherapy, plus jacuzzi, gardens with fruit trees, and a barbecue area. Multiple terraces (covered and open), along with outdoor bathroom and seating for alfresco dining with views. There is also a multi-sport court (badminton, pétanque, volleyball) in the garden. Guests can explore nearby attractions including Playa Flamingo (15 minutes walk), Playa Blanca (4 minutes drive)and Marina Rubicon (8 minutes drive). The nearest airport Arrecife (ACE-Lanzarote) is 36 minutes drive from the resort.
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