Monday, 16 September 2013 02:30

If you’re yet to organise your summer getaway, now’s the time to crack on with your planning. By leaving it late you’ll have the opportunity to snap up some last-minute deals, and there are a few destinations that combine bargain prices with amazing attractions.

We have listed some of our favourite places for holidays in the sun in 2013 below.

Majorca

With 550 km of coastline and a sunny climate, Majorca is a natural choice for a short-haul getaway before autumn arrives. One of the nice things about going on holiday here is that there is a good balance between beaches, natural wonders and cultural attractions, which means it’s easy to have a varied and interesting break.

Of course, hitting the beach is one of the cheapest ways to enjoy the sun – especially if you do a little forward planning and bring a picnic with you. In terms of where to go, Cala Llombards on the south-west coast is extremely pretty and great for snorkelling, while Es Trenc in Campos is conveniently close to the capital Palma.

Speaking of Palma, make sure you spend some time exploring this exciting city. You don’t need to break the bank – just stroll around the streets and soak up the atmosphere, popping into the occasional attraction like the Gothic Majorca Cathedral.

Tenerife

Tenerife has long been a popular holiday destination, and there are loads of reasons to come here. Like Majorca, this Canary Island has something to offer all sorts of people.

For example, beach lovers will feel right at home at destinations like Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos, while Las Teresitas Beach is beautiful and perfect for snorkelling.

If you prefer activities like hiking and cycling to spending time on the beach, you won’t be disappointed by visits to Teide National Park – home to the island’s highest peak, Mount Teide – and Corona Forestal Nature Park. For golfers there are plenty of courses to try out, including Golf Costa Adeje, while families are well catered for too.

Indeed, if you’re travelling with the kids you’ll have some great choices like spending a day splashing about in Siam Park – a Thai-themed water park – and spotting animals in Loro Parque.

Lanzarote

Our final choice is another of the Canary Islands – this time Lanzarote. Renowned for its lunar-like landscape, this is also a destination that has an excellent reputation for its weather and beaches.

However, there are also plenty of cultural attractions to be discovered. For instance, the Cesar Manrique Foundation is definitely a must-visit for art lovers, since you can explore his former home and see a host of works by both the man himself and other artists, including Picasso.

Many people don’t realise that Manrique was also a skilled architect, and when exploring the foundation you can get an idea of his abilities, with many of the rooms being created from volcanic bubbles that occurred naturally in the terrain.

It’s also well worth visiting Timanfaya National Park, where you can fully appreciate just how impressive the island’s volcanic landscape is. Head up to the Montana Rajada natural viewing point, from where you’ll be able to see over the strange lava formations all the way out to sea.