Greece

One of the great summer destinations, with everything from historic ruins to some of Europe’s hottest nightclubs, Greece offers a combination of hedonism and culture that is hard to beat. Of the thousand-odd islands scattered around the Aegean, the Cyclades are perhaps the most evocative. So named because they encircled the sacred island of Delos (once central to Greek mythology) these days the most famous islands of the group - Santorini and Mykonos - draw a different kind of worshipper, with the ancient gods and goddesses replaced by models and DJs.

Über-chic Mykonos is the Ibiza of the eastern Mediterranean, a summer playground where Europe’s hip young things party till dawn beneath the island’s iconic windmills. Crescent-shaped Santorini is one of the most scenic islands in the world (it was formerly known as Kalliste, meaning ‘the most beautiful one’). Thought by some to be the site of the legendary Atlantis, it is hard to imagine the force of the cataclysmic volcanic eruption that created its giant, sea-filled caldera and towering, 300-metre cliffs.

Back on the mainland, the three-pronged peninsula of Halkidiki may be a little less trendy, but it is home to white sand beaches and some excellent hotels for families. We have visited all of the properties in our Greece portfolio, so can suggest the best solution for you, whether you are clubber or a family. Some places even cater for both.