On the Map: Best Unusual Stays in Southern Europe

Otherwise known as Mediterranean Europe, Southern Europe is characterised by its proximity to the shimmering Mediterranean Sea.

Specific areas include the South of France and northern Italy, as well as Spain, Portugal, Greece, Croatia and Turkey… each famed for their beautiful beaches, diverse landscapes, intriguing history, and unusual places to stay.

Benefitting from the Mediterranean climate, summers in Southern Europe tend to be balmy – ideal for those who love lazing on pristine golden sand! Yet if you prefer a cooler holiday, you can explore the spectacular mountain ranges of Spain and Italy and be rewarded with truly incredible views (so don’t forget your camera).

Meanwhile, if you love natural, home-grown cuisine you couldn’t have picked a more delectable destination. The traditional Mediterranean diet isn’t just delicious, it’s also considered to be one of the healthiest ways to eat, so you can savour all that fresh fish, sun-ripened fruit and vegetables, home-baked bread, and sumptuous olive oils (relatively) guilt-free. Southern Europe is also, of course, home to some of the best wine-making regions, which means it’d almost be rude not to indulge!

We’ve selected some of the best unusual stays in Southern Europe especially to help you get up close and personal with these amazing countries, traditions, and cuisines.

Author: Nina Jervis
Main image: Cuevas Helena | Andalucia, Spain