Posted By Laura in Travel, Travel Tuesday | 1 comment

Glancing at the calendar last night, I couldn’t believe that half term is only two weeks away. How did that happen? Of course, it’s a long summer term to follow before they break up, but you and I both know that those last weeks disappear in a flash, and the summer holidays will be upon us.
Now. No looking out of the window and sniggering (or crying…) – the sun WILL shine. Think positive.
I’m currently in the throes of holiday-booking myself (late, I know, but we’ll be f-ii-i-ine… *crosses fingers*). Thankfully, I’m not going to be breaking the bank to get a nice place within shouting distance of some sunshine, sea and sand.

As everyone knows, we’re big fans of self-catering, and for us HomeAway always has the answer. Waterfront cottages in Cornwall and family villas with pools in Ibiza – loads of choice, flexible options and pretty much something for every budget.

Here’s a pick of some top beach spots to whisk your family off to this year…

France – Farmhouse in Brittany

This charming farmhouse is just 100m from the beautiful beaches and dunes of St Marguerite. The fabulous property is suitable for up to six guests and has an enclosed south facing garden and terrace which is perfect for al fresco dining. St Marguerite is a renowned for amazing beaches and is an area of outstanding natural beauty with breathtaking sea views. Prices start from €220 per week.

Spain – Apartment in La Duquesa

This two bedroom modern apartment is based in the Mikonos Playa Complex. As well as having great living accommodation and a pool, it is close to gorgeous beaches and a fantastic marina making it the perfect place for a family holiday in the sun complete with buckets and spades. Prices start from £300 per week.

Bulgaria – Villa by the Black Sea

This spacious four bedroom holiday villa in Varna, Bulgaria sleeps eight making it perfect for a great family holiday. The villa is located on a quiet, purpose-built complex and the open-plan ground floor with dining area and kitchen, has a light and airy feel. There is a double bedroom on the ground floor and two more upstairs that open out onto a balcony with fabulous views. With two shared pools and local shops and bars close by, this is a great villa at a fantastic price, starting at £450 a week.

England – Sun Valley holiday park

Anyone wanting to stay on home shores will love this two bedroom apartment set in a listed building in the beautiful grounds of the Sun Valley holiday in St Austell. Booking includes the use of an indoor heated pool, indoor and outdoor play facilities and access to a restaurant and bar so there is plenty to do if the sun doesn’t shine. St Austell is the perfect base for discovering fishing villages, beaches and ports as well as the Eden project, Lost Gardens of Heligan and Truro. Prices start from £300 per property per week

Turkey – Villa Istanbul

This large private villa has its own swimming pool, lush tropical gardens and is located in a peaceful corner of Daylan close to the sea and gorgeous sandy beaches. It has a large lounge, kitchen with doors to the terrace as well as three bedrooms, two bathrooms and plenty of living space all decorated with a modern Turkish feel. The lush gardens and gorgeous pool are outstanding and definitely make this villa a winner. Prices  start at just £241 a week.

Croatia – Apartment Daisy

A two bedroom property, ideal for families and couples looking for a peaceful beach break. The communal swimming pool and sunbathing terrace are surrounded by olive groves and there are stunning sea and mountain views. The beach is close by where guests can hire small boats to explore the coastline or have fun on the main beach of Supetar. Balmy evenings can be enjoyed in the centre’s cobbled streets that boast art, jewellery and clothing shops, restaurants, bars and cafes. Prices start at €420 per week.

Italy – Holiday Apartment in Ischia

This 2 bedroom apartment is just a few steps from the port of Ischia, and is surrounded by the greenery of a large garden and the scent of the flowers of orange blossoms. From the spacious terraces your views can stretch from the beauties of the Bay of Naples to the famous Aragonese Castle, with easy access to amazing beaches just 200m away. Prices from £296 a week.