Spring is finally here and we have never been so pleased to say cheerio to grey skies and drizzle and take a huge gambolling lamb-sized leap into the new season. Thanks to the one and only Mother Nature, the days are getting longer, it’s getting a tad warmer and slowly but surely the countryside is starting to come to life and we are starting to think about where to go on holiday in spring…
Spring is finally here hurrah! But where are the best destinations to holiday in Spring?
Many destinations are pretty stellar all year around, but there are some that are especially wonderful in spring. From the colourful streets of Lisbon where you will find antiquities around every corner to exploring the impressive myriad of neighbourhoods in San Francisco, if you are wondering where to go on holiday in Spring, look no further than this handy guide.
Madeira
What do you know about the little Portuguese firecracker that is Madeira? Far from simply being a spot for delicious wine and botanical gardens, which isn’t such a bad thing to be known for, Madeira is also a hot spot for hiking, diving and other water sports too. This pretty isle has year-round warm temperatures (which makes for a great summer-style holiday in spring) and a burgeoning foodie scene which includes some colourful farmers markets.
Orbzii Insider Tip – Make sure you take a dip in the lava pools at Porto das Salemas or Porto Moniz where you will truly be immersing yourself into nature.
San Francisco
“Take me to my city by the Bay” sings Californian rock band Train and we can totally empathise. San Francisco is a city that has everything laid out in front of you – all you need is a good pair of walking shoes. Whilst the public transport (including the famous street cars) is excellent, the best way to explore the city is on foot where you will find a treasure trove of neighbourhoods and must-see attractions like Alamo Square, Telegraph Hill, the Marina, Nob Hill and more.
Orbzii Insider Tip – Vintage and vinyl lovers should head over to the bohemian neighbourhood of Haight-Ashbury where they will find a treasure trove of gems from one-of-a-kind, independent shops.
Balearics
Which Baleariac island are you? Each of the four islands that make up this small archipelago of islands are not only distinct from the rest of Spain, but they are also different from each other. Mallorca, Menorca, Formentera and Ibiza are all without doubt absolutely stunning, but all of them offer beautiful beaches, intriguing historic towns and lots of culture.
From the rippling turquoise waves that embrace the hidden coves and unbeatable beaches of Menorca to the surprising history of Ibiza where you can amble along the cobbled streets of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, the Balearic islands are not to be missed, especially when considering a holiday in spring.
Orbzii Insider Tip – Nature lovers will be in their element on the wild and unspoilt north coast of Menorca where they will find a myriad of flora and fauna which includes over 220 species of birds, and 1000 species of plants – 60 of which are endemic to the island.
Amsterdam
Everyone should visit Amsterdam at least once. Scratch below the surface of Amsterdam’s reputation and you will find an exhilarating art scene which includes a treasure trove of galleries and museums.
Tucked away from the more iconic landmarks, you can stumble into some top-notch attractions like the City Archives, the Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder, the Electric Ladyland Museum and more. This city is a must-visit for art lovers wanting to whet their appetite for a holiday in spring.
Orbzii Insider Tip – Ahoy there! If you love being on the water and sweet flat treats, you are in luck! Climb aboard the Pancake Boat where you can enjoy tasty pancakes laden with lemon and sugar as you navigate the waters through the city’s famous harbour, taking in Amsterdam’s breathtaking architecture.
The Caribbean
An evergreen long haul favourite, the Caribbean is a haven for those seeking all-year round sun, stunning beaches and a rum-laden cocktail or two. The islands that make up the expansive archipelago of the Caribbean all have the same striking characteristics, such as the azure sea and dreamy white sands that are totally instagram worthy.
From the stunning waterfalls of Grenada to hikes spotting the wildlife in the diverse ecosystem in Jamaica, you might find yourself swerving sunning yourself on the beach for something entirely different.
Orbzii Inside Tip – Check out the sunken pirate village from the 17th century for some serious maritime archaeological snapping. Situated on the South East coast at Port Royal, this is a dive experience like no other.
Porto
Whether you are a culture vulture, foodie, adrenaline junkie or maybe all of the above, you will not be disappointed by Porto.
From exploring the streets of this colourful UNESCO-listed old town and watching the sun set over the formidable Rio Douro, to immersing yourself into the contemporary art scene where you will find a delectable collection of galleries including ‘A Certain Lack of Coherence’ where hosts a diverse range of events and exhibitions, the city is abuzz with activities.
Orbzii Insider Tip – Head to Foz do Duoro for the best collection of eclectic shops and restaurants. These cater to every budget, from the retro and quirky Mercearia do Miguel to the Michelin-starred Antiqvvm.
Dorset
You might just think that you are somewhere more exotic than Thomas Hardy country if you look past the stunning coastline where palm trees nestle the award-winning sandy beaches that make up the Dorset coastline. One of the standout places in the UK to take a holiday in Spring.
Chock-full of exciting things to do, you may have to leave your beach reading in the hotel room as you explore some of the top attractions in Dorset which includes Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, Compton Acres, Corfe Castle and more.
Orbzii Insider Tip – Make a pit stop at the intriguing Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum where you will find a plethora of fascinating memorabilia and artefacts from all over the world. The building itself is the former home of two Victorian collectors and travel enthusiasts, Sir Merton and Lady Annie Russell-Cotes and has the most far-reaching panoramic views of the sea.
Venice
Gondolas, ornate masks and winding alleyways, Venice has it all and is an ideal place to go to in Spring. A photographer’s dream thanks to its striking architecture, it is epitomised in St. Mark’s and Bridge of Sighs. It is also a great destination for foodies and is surprisingly even good for coeliacs who can enjoy oodles of gluten-free fare such as pastries from the Majer Bakery.
Orbzii Insider Tip – If you are visiting Venice with children why not immerse them into doing what the Venetians do? Row Venice is dedicated to keeping traditional Venetian rowing alive, and as a result offers 90-minute lessons in their traditional boats. A fun-filled activity for all the family and it’s ideal for taking in the view from the water.
