From the bustling charm of Galway City to the rugged, otherworldly Burren, Western Ireland offers a wonderful wealth of experiences. Exuberant Galway, City of Tribes, packs summers with festivals and packs pubs with locals and visitors. Westport is another charismatic town, full of colourful shopfronts, pubs and great restaurants. The near-lunar landscape of the Burren delights with its unexpected flora. Don't miss its Stone Age burial monuments, fishing village Ballyvaughan or cheerful Lisdoonvarna.

The largest national park in Spain, Sierra Nevada is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. The rugged terrain includes mountains and gorges made for hiking (Los Cahorros is a favourite with its limestone cliffs and hanging bridges), icy plunge pools for swimming, and plentiful tunnels and caves to explore. Those that aren’t so adventure-inclined can make their own excitement roaming through the many villages dotted throughout Las Alpujarras. The famous Alhambra castle and fortress is also close by, inspiring visitors with its breathtaking architecture and gardens.

Belek, a resort town on the Turkish Riviera, is known for very clean, white-sand beaches surrounded by pine forests. History buffs should plan day trips to the Roman ruins at Perge and the Aspendos amphitheater. Or if you’d prefer a round of golf, bring your clubs—there are excellent courses in the area.