This infamously glittery stretch of the southern Spanish coast is not just about extravagant luxury. The lesser-known Costa del Sol is full of unexpected and memorable experiences guaranteed to appeal to the more intrepid wine and food lover

Alicante is famous for its beaches; less so for its hiking. But in the Sierra de la Serrella, a short hop from the city, Isis Taylor discovers a network of trails that combine natural beauty with an insight into ancient cultures

Bilbao is a classic European city break destination: small enough to walk across in an hour and filled with lush parks, bustling pintxos bars (you’re rarely more than 6ft away from a cocktail stick sk

The design of these grand destinations is matched only by the majestic settings

Catalonia offers a dizzying array of habitats, and birds to match,

Base yourself in this handsome villa on Tuscany’s timeless coastline and discover the region’s Etruscan history, says Rosie Paterson