Blissful summer escapes that mix adventure with relaxation

The perfect getaway pairs just enough adventure with the freedom to fully switch off. These stays and experiences are Living360’s top picks for striking that balance.

The philosophy of ‘Exactly Like Nothing Else’ sets the tone at The Halcyon Private Isles Maldives, Autograph Collection. Set across two private islands in the stunning Gaafu Alifu atoll, the resort, a part of the Marriott Hotels portfolio, is surrounded by coral reefs, clear lagoons and white sand. Its design is inspired by the myth of Alcyone and the romance of historic exploration. Featuring just 38 spacious villas, each with its own private infinity pool and indoor-outdoor living layout, this is a spot to truly get away from it all.

Go on a culinary journey at Yuzu, with refined Pan-Asian dishes in a chic setting above the water, and enlist the services of a dedicated Halcyon butler who can organise marine experiences, intimate sandbank picnics and wellness over the water.

In the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, a family-run lavender farm opens its gates from 17 June to 5 August, welcoming visitors for a seasonal escape to the countryside. Visitors can stroll through rows of fragrant lavender and vibrant wildflower meadows, with July bringing the most striking displays as the fields reach full bloom.

It’s a relaxed and family-friendly setting suited to all ages, with the Beechwood Trail providing a shaded woodland walk for those keen for respite from the sun. Follow time spent outdoors with a trip to the on-site cabin kiosk and browse a collection of lavender-inspired products, and even more available to shop online.

Open daily from 10am to 5pm, it’s worth checking ahead for the latest updates on timings and entry.

With its Alpine backdrop and rich artistic heritage, Salzburg is an ever-inviting city break full of character, musical history and a unique charm. The birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, it’s home to a beautifully preserved and Unesco-listed Old Town where baroque landmarks such as the Mirabell Palace and Hohensalzburg Fortress animate the skyline.

Be it a winter or a summer visit, the city hosts cultural experiences throughout the year, from lunchtime concerts in the handsome cathedral to elegant dinner performances of Mozart’s music in historic surroundings.

Fans of The Sound of Music can explore filming locations on guided walking or cycling tours, and a packed festival schedule keeps the city’s outdoor life vibrant. Sample traditional cuisine and fine dining, enjoy elevated hospitality and get around easily when you pick up a Guest Mobility Ticket.

Thanks to pleasing temperatures and long days, with sunlight lasting past midnight, summer is the best time to visit Northern Europe. Authentic Scandinavia specialises in customisable tours across the Nordics and Baltics for travellers who value balancing their independence with a little help from those in the know.

The expert team puts together self-guided and party-guided itineraries that combine urban exploration in Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm with the great outdoors. Featuring scenic rail routes, coastal cruises and overnight ferries, journeys are crafted not only to show off the region’s finest features but to encourage a sustainable method of travel.

Each journey is arranged with detailed information, comfortable and convenient accommodation options and 24/7 support. For a more elevated experience, Platinum tours offer upgraded stays and travel options.

Craving sun, sea and rejuvenation? You’ll find the perfect combination of all three at AP Oriental Beach, an adults-friendly hotel located in Praia da Rocha, Portimão on the Algarve’s stunning coastline. With almost every room offering direct views of Praia da Rocha, here, you’ll feel a profound sense of calm that only comes from being close to water.

The hotel’s direct beach access means you’re always only a few steps away from the sand. On site, enjoy two restaurants with panoramic beach views, while an outdoor swimming pool, gym and massage parlour offer plenty of ways to unwind when you’re not gazing seaward.

This exclusive, peaceful retreat is designed for adults seeking tranquillity, relaxation and comfort by the water. Find out more at ap-hotelsresorts.com.

Hidden among the greenery edging the sand on Phú Quốc’s Bà Kèo beach is Cassia Cottage, an idyllic, design-led hideaway that makes a show of slowed-down island life. Built by spice planters and exporters in the 20th century, this pretty boutique retreat is an intimate setting for calm and space to truly relax.

Wellness is woven into the experience, with daily guided yoga and organic open-air spa treatments designed to support balance and relaxation. Dining centres on fresh, locally sourced ingredients at The Spice House, while The Malabar is a beachfront spot for sipping cocktails and watching sunsets over the shore.

Alongside preserving its natural landscape, reducing single-use plastics and supporting local businesses, the resort manages internships for young women from remote areas of Vietnam, creating pathways into the hospitality industry, reflecting its long-term and government-recognised commitment to sustainability and community empowerment.

Discover Europe’s largest museum dedicated to modern realism. Set between the handsome medieval towns of Deventer and Zutphen in the Netherlands, Museum MORE is a contemporary space that displays a rich spectrum of high quality figurative art from the 20th century to the present day. Both the museum’s permanent collection and temporary exhibitions explore the boundaries of what realism can be, with pieces that break down conventions in unexpected ways.

This spring, the museum hosts Magico! Italian Realism 1920-1970, featuring 70 selected works that showcase the development of modern realist paintings in Italy and their evolution over 50 years. The exhibition includes works from Edita Broglio, Felice Casorati, Giorgio de Chirico and Cagnaccio di San Pietro, to name a few, and continues until 7 June 2026.

Set within a historic building in the heart of Vila Nova de Gaia, Forte de Gaia, Autograph Collection from Marriott International offers a contemporary stay shaped by the region’s rich heritage. Just moments from the Douro River and the renowned port wine cellars, and a short stroll across to Porto’s lively centre, the hotel is ideally placed for exploring both sides of this characterful city.

Inside, chic rooms in deep, rich tones and a heated pool create a calming base to return to after a day out. Dining at Renata restaurant takes guests on a journey of flavours from Portugal to its former explored countries, best enjoyed on the terrace overlooking the river and city skyline. It’s an ideal choice for travellers seeking culture and a strong sense of place in one of Portugal’s most inviting destinations.

Close to Buckingham Palace, St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel, is a Victorian masterpiece that sets the scene for a city stay with a little royal treatment. The property features elegant rooms, a serene central courtyard and a calming spa offering treatments including Indian therapies.

Dining is a standout feature, with authentic Chinese cuisine at House of Ming and Indian dishes at Michelin-starred Quilon. At Kona, guests can try a theatrical A Midsummer Night’s Dream Afternoon Tea, while TH@51 restaurant and bar is currently serving The Queen’s Centenary Table, a menu created to mark 100 years since the birth of Queen Elizabeth II.

Explore the Book Early and Save offer to enjoy exclusive savings and added privileges when planning your London stay in advance. Sign up as a NeuPass member to also enjoy savings on dining and J Wellness Circle spa treatments.

For those on the move, Fuze nicotine pouches can be used in settings such as airports, airplanes and public transport. Fuze’s compact tins fit easily into hand luggage, while the solid format avoids liquid restrictions.

The Irish brand puts focus on flavour and design, with slim pouches developed for comfort. Options include Breeze with fresh menthol notes and Orange Bubblegum, a fan favourite, which gives a sweet citrus tang. Made using food-grade ingredients and with no smoke or vapour, it’s suited to travel, commuting and social settings.

Strictly for adults aged 18 and over. Nicotine pouches contain nicotine, which is a highly addictive substance. It’s recommended to take advice from your doctor before use.

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