Picture the scene. Among sand dunes, gnarled shrubs and prickly
palm trees, a city rises from Arizona’s Sonoran Desert – no, we’re not
describing the set of Dune. The brainchild of the late Italian
architect Paolo Soleri, the concept, dreamed up in the 1970s, was
simple: to build a city that comprises both environmental and
design-driven factors, while offering an efficient and go-slow
lifestyle for inhabitants. Ribbed and rounded, sweeping and smooth,
each of its otherworldly structures are angled toward the south in
order to maximise light and heat. With no roads and a population
that hovers around 100 people, this unique and beguiling complex
makes for a proper off-grid escape – and some incredible photo
opportunities.

Where to stay: Arcosanti Guest
Rooms

Why it should be on your radar: An experimental
town built in the middle of the Arizona desert? Reason enough for
us.

The picturesque town of Sitges is situated just 38km south of
Barcelona’s buzzy streets and selfie-swamped coast. With 17
sweeping sandy beaches, a wide array of stylish boutique hotels and
an abundance of design-driven restaurants to choose from, it’s
little surprise that this place makes our Easter list. Water babies
should make a beeline for Playa de les Anquines, where everything
from kayaking to paddle boarding is up for grabs. Prefer a lazier
vibe? Head to El Vivero, a no-frills beach bar and restaurant
serving some of the best cocktails and sea-facing views in
town.

Where to stay: MIM Sitges Hotel

Why it should be on your radar: Because it has
a rooftop terrace pool and a Barcelona-esque beach, both entirely
free of hen and stag dos.

A 90-minute drive west of Lisbon, Alenjeto is often overlooked, losing out to the
buzzier Porto or Douro. Yet, this historic walled town has fast
become one of Portugal’s most treasured outposts for wine travel.
Surrounded by a landscape dotted with sprawling vineyards,
truncated olive trees and centuries-old farmhouses, this is the
place to spend afternoons basking in the sun with a glass of red in
one hand; white in the other. Make farmhouse-turned-guesthouse Casa
no Tempo your base. Set among tangled cork groves and wildflower
meadows, just outside of the charming village of Montemor-o-Novo,
this rural retreat has been designed with the modern traveller
firmly in mind: think grand archways for door frames, rustic clay
blocks for floors and an outdoor sunken swimming pool.

Where to stay: Casa No Tempo

Why it should be on your radar: For its
stylish, light-flooded interior and delicious, olive oil-drenched
food, all in a verdant, Spain-hugging region.

The heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia is known for its rich history,
justifiably proud locals and, of course, outstanding culinary
offering. We’re bookmarking the go-slow city of Ostuni as the
foodie destination to watch. On a hilltop, above a carpet of olive
trees and the glittering Adriatic, stand tumbling clusters of
whitewashed houses, each crisscrossed by winding roads and
time-worn brick walls. When exploring, you’ll find narrow alleyways
and fragrant gardens upon every turn. Rest your head at Paragon
700, an intimate 18th-century mansion framed by a pretty courtyard.
Hungry? Head to the top of the old town to find Osteria del
Tempo Perso. This traditional restaurant serves up all kinds of
regional classics, so don’t expect pizza – the burrata will more
than make up for it.

Where to stay: Paragon 700

Why it should be on your radar: A stylish
sojourn in the countryside trumps an overcrowded Roman holiday any
day.

A feast for the senses, vibrant Marrakech is known for its labyrinthine
sandstone streets, sun-dappled riads, retro restaurants and
colourful souks: this is a destination best explored on foot. To
eat like a local, make a pit stop at Le Jardin, a
leafy oasis whose menu is stacked with superb seasonal produce –
you’ll likely smell its fresh herbs before you see its unassuming
front door. For lunch in the sun, bag a table on the mosaicked
terrace and order the falafel salad, making sure to request an
extra-large serving of the hummus. Walk it off at the Musée de la Palmeraie, a private museum dedicated to
the contemporary art of Morocco, setting aside some time to enjoy a
stroll around the beautifully manicured, themed gardens.

Where to stay: Berber Lodge

Why it should be on your radar: The city centre
is pretty chaotic. Instead, opt for the tranquil surrounds of this
rustic-chic Berber village.

The Algarve might often be associated with package-holiday
crowds and golf resorts, but lesser-trodden Lagos is a cut above.
With its palm tree-lined avenues, dramatic rock formations and
beaches beautiful enough to put the Indian Ocean’s to shame, the
city is not difficult to fall in love with. We can’t get enough of
its citrus-scented gardens, family-run farmhouses and coastal
restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts should pick up the final section
of the famous Fisherman’s Trail. Start at Praia da Luz, from where
it’s a scenic 13km hike back to base.

Where to stay: Casa Mãe

Why it should be on your radar: An affordable
Algarve bolthole with a minimalist slant.

Our newest Mexican obsession? The colourful Valladolid.
Slotted on the eastern edge of the Yucatán Peninsula, this storied
city is a favourite day-trip destination, its sun-drenched streets
dotted with pastel-hued facades concealing a bevy of artisan
boutiques. As the sun sets, follow the stream of locals heading to
Central Plaza, where stalls serve up all sorts of delights – we’re
talking everything from cheese-stuffed tacos to craft beer on tap.
Though 97km inland, this place is not short of good swimming spots.
Carve out time to visit the Cenote Saamal, a natural open-aired
sinkhole that offers plenty of diving platforms popular with
thrill-seekers.

Where to stay: Coqui
Coqui

Why it should be on your radar: Exclusivity –
while it has an on-site perfumery and serene spa, Coqui Coqui has
only one bedroom.

Mention of the French Riviera often evokes images of glitz and
glamour, but behind the showbiz scenes live quieter towns that are
just as spectacular – and minus the crowds. Our favourite is St
Paul de Vence. Bordered by Nice and Vence, this rampart-flanked
town has long been appreciated by artists, poets and painters for
its tranquil setting and golden light. Such luminaries as Matisse,
Braque, Chagall and Picasso made La Colombe d’Or their stomping
ground, paying for their meals in paintings. Today, the welcoming,
Roux family-run brasserie-with-rooms has the air of a convivial art
gallery.

Where to stay: La
Colombe d’Or

Why it should be on your radar: More than a
hotel, La Colombe d’Or is peppered with works by some of the 20th
century’s most iconic artists.