British tourists are increasingly seeking out coastal accommodations across Europe that offer a more luxurious experience, with many opting for 'glamorous' seaside hotels boasting breathtaking views, idyllic settings, and nostalgic charm. A recent survey of reader submissions has highlighted some of the top picks for an elegant escape, spanning destinations from Italy's Sorrentine coast to France's Atlantic coastline.
Among the standout recommendations is the Hotel Villa Garden in Sant'Agnello, near Sorrento, which offers breathtaking views of Vesuvius and a welcoming family-run atmosphere. Further south in Italy, the five-star Grand Hotel in Rimini provides competitive pricing for a luxurious experience, including an open-air pool and reserved beach sunloungers, evoking a 1960s cinematic feel. In France, L'Hôtel La Jetée on Île de Ré is noted for its idyllic island setting and charming harbour views, while Biarritz's Hotel Eduardo VII transports guests back to the resort's fashionable past with its preserved original features.
Spanish recommendations include Hotel Nanin in Galicia, offering a beachfront location south of Santiago de Compostela, ideal for a road trip stopover with a lively promenade nearby. For those heading to Corsica, Hotel les Roches Rouges near Piana boasts an Art Deco vibe and spectacular sunset views over the pink granite coastline. Even Tenerife, often associated with package holidays, features an Art Deco oasis in the 1920s-era Hotel Reverón Plaza in the south, just steps from the beach.
For UK travellers considering these destinations, several practicalities should be noted. The European hotels mentioned typically offer doubles from approximately £70 to £150 per night for bed and breakfast, though prices can fluctuate with seasonality and exchange rates. For example, L'Hôtel La Jetée on Île de Ré starts from around £72 (€85), Hotel Nanin from approximately £85 (€100), and Hotel Eduardo VII from about £88 (€104). The five-star Grand Hotel in Rimini can be found from around £102 (€120), while Hotel les Roches Rouges in Corsica is higher, from about £145 (€170). The Hotel Reverón Plaza in Tenerife is quoted at £181 for September. It is advisable to check current exchange rates and book directly or through reputable travel sites for the best deals.
Most of these European destinations do not require a visa for UK citizens for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period, as they are within the Schengen Area. However, it is crucial to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) currently advises checking their travel advice for each country before booking and before travelling, particularly regarding local laws, customs, and any specific health or safety recommendations. Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.