You’re not here to climb a mountain or accomplish some valiant personal goal of self-help and individual improvement. You’re also not here to learn about the history or derive cultural enrichment. All of the above is important, but it has its time and place. Right now, you need a real vacation where a whole lot of nothing but pure hedonistic enjoyment is on the menu. Your biggest decision will be whether to order the rose or champagne for your first beverage of the day. If you had unlimited resources, there are places this summer that are indisputably on the list of where to be. Bonus points (and #goals) if you hit all seven this summer.
The Summer Destination: St. Tropez
It isn’t news that St. Tropez is a vacation spot for the jetset, but it’s been a classic since the 60s for a reason. The picturesque town on the French Riviera makes it an optimal place for beach clubs, yacht parties, and fresh seafood. While we’re on the topic of indulgence, chances are you will want a drink or three while dancing to beachy house music. Make a rose your signature this vacation at Le Club 55. St. Tropez is known for its world-class roses, which can always be enjoyed at a vineyard if partying is not your vibe this time around. Winding roads can lead you to discoveries like Place des Lices Market , town squares, and cobblestone streets lined with pastel-colored homes.
Where to Stay: La Réserve Ramatuelle
The Summer Destination: Mallorca
If Mallorca is good enough for Annie Lennox to buy a home and Michelle Obama’s vacations, then sweet dreams must be made of this (we couldn’t resist). The island is only an hour’s flight from Barcelona, so a split trip between the island and the city is doable. Once on the island, it’ll be easy to fall in love with your surroundings. Think, translucent waters, medieval Spanish villages, and secret coves. When relaxation is the only thing on your agenda, views are everything, and Mallorca has them. You can take in the medieval architecture in Palma Old Town or swim at Cala Mondrago for easy cove hopping.
Where to Stay: Cap Rocat
The Summer Destination: The Greek Islands
You’re seeing Greece on the list and probably expecting the classic Greek hotspots. Think again because Greece is not just Mykonos, and your trip may not even include Mykonos this time around. The country is made up of a whopping 6,000 islands, 227 of which are inhabited. With all that land, there is an abundance of activities. You can take a helicopter ride from one ancient cliffside monastery to another in Meteora, learn about beekeeping in the Peloponnese area, and even rent out the Acropolis Museum for private viewings in Athens. The beaches are equally otherwordly, with pink sands in Elafonisi and red sand in Santorini due to volcanic deposits.
Where to Stay: Cali Mykonos
The Summer Destination: Ibiza
If there was a world capital of hedonism, Ibiza might win the title. Ibiza is known for its exclusive nightlife, so if partying is your favorite pastime, you must go to Ibiza at least once. Famous DJs worldwide, like Dave Pearce and Steve Lawler, bring the party for some therapeutic dancing. That said, Ibiza is also full of natural parks, so you could skip the clubby vibe entirely. Ses Salines Natural Park is over 7,000 acres long, and underwater Posidonia meadows allow marine biology to thrive. It’s no wonder there are Yoga retreats all over Ibiza, too. While the partying is world-class, you don’t have to write Ibiza off if you want nature.
Where to Stay: Six Senses Ibiza
The Summer Destination: Marbella
We told you this list is meant for well-deserved indulgence, minus the effort. The best way to enjoy quiet pleasures is being in the right place; this makes Marbella a go-to spot. There are almost 17 miles of beach to choose from, meaning no matter where you are, there’s a gorgeous beach within distance. There are also golf courses everywhere. Marbella Club Golf Resort has an 18-hole course with views of the African Coastline and mountaintops. You can relax after a long day of golfing in Puerto Banus; the Marina is where all the private yachts are docked, and luxury shopping is available. Celebrities are often sighted here, so you may bump into one of your favorites at Louis Vuitton.
Where to Stay: Marbella Club Hotel
The Summer Destination: Amalfi Coast/Capri
The Amalfi Coast is an iconic summer destination; it’s exactly what you think of when daydreaming of summer days away from the desk. Brightly colored homes wrapped around cliff sides and lemon groves a brighter yellow than the sun are daily sightings here. Seeing the Blue Grotto in Capri is for sure a bucket list activity. The water in the cavern is a bright, otherworldly blue, so don’t hesitate to take a boat to enjoy the surrounding area. The island has a distinct sweet, fruity smell from all the fig trees and grapevines outside the local’s homes. But, reserve walking for once you’ve reached the top; to get to Monte Solaro, a thirteen-minute chairlift is the way to go.
Where to Stay: Caruso, A Belmond Hotel, Amalfi Coast, Hotel La Palma, and Le Sirenuse
The Summer Destination: Antibes
We don’t even know why we’re calling it Antibes because the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc. is the most distinctive part of the entire region. When generations of families have been coming every summer, you know it’s unique. The place fills with regulars quickly, making a reservation hard to land. However, once you’re in the Grande Allée or see multiple famous billionaires, it will make you feel like you’ve officially made it. The vibe is more classic than modern, with art spread throughout. New art will be introduced on the grounds this season, so even if you’re a regular, there are some discoveries to make. Speaking of new, Head Pastry Chef Tarek Ahamada is joining the team this season.
Where to Stay: Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc.
FAQs
Q: When is Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc open?
A: The Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is open from about May to October.
Q: Are there other ways, besides the chair lift, to get to Monte Solaro in Capri?
A: Walking. You can get a bus ride or private car from the Marina to the chairlift area and do the rest of the trek by foot.
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