Destination Inspiration: Dijon, France
Just over a three-hour drive from Paris, Dijon makes for the perfect weekend getaway. Visit for its cobbled squares, Haussman-style architecture and bountiful vineyards.
Destination Inspiration
Not sure where you want to go but like to be ahead of the curve? These under-the-radar spots are the places that everybody will be talking about in a couple of years. You heard it here first.
Destination Inspiration: Off-Season Ibiza
The White Isle exerts an almost mystical pull over those who visit in the tranquil winter months, when its high-octane summer diversions are swapped for long beach walks backed by a beckoning indigo sea, off-road adventures immersed in blossom-strewn nature and warming island dishes cooked with care.
Destination Inspiration: Lošinj, Croatia
Formerly a favourite among the Hapsburgs and a popular private escape of clued-up elites, the island of Lošinj is a tricky to access haven of low-key beach glamour.
Destination Inspiration: Vis, Croatia
This tiny island has all the components for the perfect secluded holiday. Spend a day trekking through orange and lemon trees, vineyards and wild rosemary bushes, or climb up Mount Hum for panoramic views across the Adriatic and surrounding islands.
Destination Inspiration: Folkestone, Kent
Is Folkestone Kent’s most underrated seaside town? Great for a day trip or mini break from London, this rough-diamond city is studded with big-name art installations and great seafood restaurants – best enjoyed after a spell on the beach.
Destination Inspiration: Whitstable, Kent
With beautiful beaches, winding alleys, sea views and boutique shops, the coastal Kentish town of Whitstable is our go-to for rest, relaxation and a much-needed break from the city.
Destination Inspiration: Viseu, Portugal
Done Lisbon? Ventured to Porto? Put this lesser-known city in Portugal's Centro region on your radar for a cultured city break with nature on its doorstep. Viseu's azulejo-dotted streets are a must-visit for renaissance art, impressive cathedrals and tavernas pouring robust Dão wine - plus, there's plenty of green space for a breath of countryside air.
Destination Inspiration: Pioneertown, California
Once a thriving Old Western movie set and real-life residence started by a who's who of Hollywood's western stars, this dusty, offbeat town is proving that it's far more than a tourist trail gimmick. A tight-knit community is reviving the pioneering spirit of the Old and making it a worthy desert stopover.
Outrageous Escapism: Tafilalet Oasis, Morocco
A must-visit on any Morroccan road-trip itinerary, this glittering desert oasis provides a snapshot into Tafilalet's prosperous and storied past.
Outrageous Escapism: The Black Lake, Durmitor National Park, Montenegro
Snow-capped mountains and rugged beauty lure adventurers to this national park in Montenegro’s northern territory. The fabled Black Lake, surrounded by dense pine forests and glacial gorges, is mystical in summer when cross-country skiing gives way to kayaking, rafting and wild swimming.
Outrageous Escapism: Ellora Caves, India
A short flight from Mumbai, the Ellora Caves is a network of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain temples carved into rocks – and among the world’s largest complexes of its kind. Quieter than Hampi and more ancient than the Taj Mahal, its fascinating structures are far from the tourist trail.
Outrageous Escapism: Sharr Mountains National Park, Kosovo
A midpoint between the mountainous wilds of North Macedonia, Kosovo and Albania, this unspoiled corner of the Balkans is home to brown bears, lynx and myriad indigenous flowers. Get past the occasional lack of running water and punishing winter climes, and you’re in for a treat.
Destination Inspiration: Osea Island, Essex
Just a 90-minute drive from London and accessible only by boat, Osea Island's forage-and-feast restaurant, recording studio and wellness offering attracts hedonists, creatives and those looking to looking to bask in its remote location.
Outrageous Escapism: Badab-e Surt, Iran
One of Iran’s most awesome natural attractions, the terraced pools of water at Badab-e Surt make for a great day trip from Tehran, Semnan or Sari. It’s a tricky drive but the photos at sunset are well worth it.
Destination Inspiration: Axminster, Devon
Plan your escape (or mini-break) to the country. A fossil’s throw from Devon’s Jurassic Coast, the market town of Axminster is our go-to for a smattering of independent shops, fresh-air walks and good food courtesy of River Cottage.