TROPEA BEACH, ITALY

This gorgeous beach in Italy’s Calabria region has more than two miles of glistening white sand, sloping gently to a shimmering blue sea. You’d almost think you were in the Caribbean if it weren’t for the cliffs topped with uneven stacks of ancient houses – unmistakably Italian.

BEACH BONUS

The Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola, a monastery set high on a rocky promontory, which you can reach via steps carved into the rock. It’s a slog to get to the top, but you’re rewarded with gobsmacking views of the coastline and across to Sicily’s Aeolian Islands. We also love the cobbled streets of

Tropea village, lined with piazzas, restaurants and boutiques – you’ll feel as though you’ve walked onto a film set.

WHERE TO STAY LA DOLCE VITA A TROPEA

This hotel is dazzling, from the terrace overlooking the coast to the sophisticated bedrooms with ’50s-style decor. Breakfast is so big and plentiful – think pastries, olives, cheese and cakes – that you might not even need lunch. From £97 per night; Ladolcevitatropea.it.