Europe’s best breaks

YOU don’t have to o fly long haul to find blissful relaxation n in beautiful surroundings. There are so many sensational places to stay a little off the beaten track, just a short hop away in Europe.

Unwind among the scented eucalyptus groves of Corfu, enjoy passionate flamenco and foodie nirvana in Andalucia, walk forested trails ls in bewitching Cyprus, or follow the A-listers to the beguiling Italian ian Lakes for a rejuvenating spa stay. The key is enlisting expert help to put together a holiday you’ll love.

And Kuoni offers all the knowhow you need, with personalised service and advice to help you find an exceptional short haul stay that’s great value.

Each holiday is expertly tailormade for you individually, with all the little details and extras taken care of, so you can make the most of your time away.

Best for gastronomes: Andalucia

In this gorgeous Moorish region featuring Granada’s Alhambra and Seville’s Alcazar palace, gourmands can dine anywhere from top-end restaurants to tiny bodegas serving tapas. Don’t leave without trying Andalucian gazpacho, melt-inthe-mouth Iberian ham from acorn-fed black pigs, and freshly grilled squid accompanied by a cold, crisp Fino wine.

Take a 14-night self-drive from Seville to Cordoba and Granada, before indulging in seafood and beach relaxation in Marbella. Or head to the countryside for a relaxing stay at a rusticluxe La Bobadilla, A Royal Hideaway Hotel (inset above) tucked away in olive groves. Join cookery classes and sample the sensational tasting menus at Michelin-starred La Finca restaurant. Seven nights from £1,349pp, inc flights.

Best for spa seekers: The Italian Lakes

These zen-like glacial lagoons are lined by Italianate villas that ooze ritzy, five-star glamour. Check into the award-winning Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di

Garda (left) for exquisite lake views, saunas, grottos, and an infinity pool, with the bonus of expert wellness advice. Seven nights from £1,979pp, inc flights.

Best for mountain trekkers: Cyprus

Walk on trails through characterful villages in Cyprus’s pine-scented Troodos Mountains and witness awesome views from Mount Olympus. Rest at a taverna and try kleftiko (lamb and potatoes), keftedes (meatballs) and tiropita (cheese pie). Seclusion is offered by Casale Panayiotis, a mountain retreat in a traditional village, now an award-winning hotel and spa. Seven nights from £1,079pp, inc flights.

Best for privacy and panoramas: Corfu

After exploring the Old Town’s Venetian architecture and cobbled alleyways, or Empress Sisi’s Achilleion Palace, retreat to Greek Cubist-style Angsana Corfu. A family friendly hotel, the brainchild of the luxury Banyan Group, it perches on a cliff with a stunning infinity pool, spa, beach (left), four excellent restaurants and a panoramic rooftop bar. Seven nights from £1,179pp, inc flights.

▮ LET Kuoni’s experts help you track down a brilliant, greatvalue European break in a fabulous, secluded location. For more information and to book your tailormade holiday, call 01306 230 072, see kuoni.co.uk or visit your local Kuoni store.