Top 10 European holidays for 2012

Blue Palace Resort & Spa, Crete Elounda’s Blue Palace is part of the Luxury Collection of resorts and boasts a world class Thalasso Spa and over 140 room types with private pools all with sea views. The location is a star too, with a delightful private beach, crystal clear waters and soaring coastal vistas over the island of Spinalonga. Abama Tenerife Abama is jewel of the Canary Islands in Guia de Isora – this stunning salmon pink citadel is surrounded by azure ocean, golf course and banana plantations. M.B – Martín Berasategui’s three Michelin starred hideaway is a foodie’s delight and a host of pools and spa are the perfect relaxation zones. St Regis Mardavall, Majorca Home to the largest collection of contemporary art on the island, this luxury spa hotel positions itself as an accessible option for families, welcoming children of all ages and offering a club for those aged 3-12 which is complimentary to guests. In the shadow of the Tramuntana Mountains, the setting is delightful and three established golf resorts are located within 15 minutes drive. Grace Santorini On top of the island’s Caldera, Grace Santorini lends mesmerising views of Skaros Rock and the Cyclades and is perfectly situated to view those captivating Aegean sunsets. This delightful boutique hotel features authentic crisp whitewashed walls, immaculate rooms and a stunning domed ceiling restaurant serving daily champagne breakfast. Hotel Monte Mulini, Croatia A bay sea front location is combined by integration with the Zlatni Rt protected park for this delightful hotel located in the south of Rovinj. Saunas and a Turkish bath, sunken hydro massage rooms and a heated indoor pool with counter current are the ideal places to unwind following exploration of the surrounding forest and cycling trails. Sheraton Algarve & Pine Cliffs Resort, Algarve Two deluxe resorts in one featuring the Pine Cliffs Golf Course, a tennis academy, health club, ritual spa and beauty salon and leisure pursuits including a wide range of beach water sports. From the resort you can enjoy a pleasant coastal walk into Albufeira town before returning for a nightcap at the Mirador Champagne Bar. Santa Caterina, Amalfi Coast This 19th century villa residence transformed into a fashionable luxury hotel is set amidst olive groves and fruit orchards on a cliff, with lift access down to a private beach club and pool. A sea facing gym, domed arch rooms and authentic Italian styling and cuisine enhances the appeal of this small but intimate Mediterranean offering. Intercontinental Aphrodite Hills, Paphos The hotel forms part of a 578 acre integrated sports and leisure resort built in the style of a Cypriot village with world class spa, 18 hole golf course, tennis academy and a village square with shops , restaurants and bars.   A byzantine style wedding chapel and shaded gazebo calls those looking to tie the knot in style. Kempinski Hotel Bahia Resort, Marbella Located in the small town of Estepona, you’ll find this smart offering from the Kempinski Group. Moorish design graces this lavish, immaculate seaside resort, with patio terraces, subtropical gardens and three pools with sundecks to soak up the sun. Horse riding is available nearby and the hotel runs a complimentary kids club for those aged 4-12. Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza This breathtaking oasis is surrounded by forest and the emerald ocean 180 metres below– re-defining any pre-conceptions you might have of an Ibiza holiday. Think chill out bar culture rather than nightclub and you are half way there. Special touches make the difference, a scenic amphitheatre, Andalusian patio with balcony and Jacuzzi guest rooms are just the beginning. Carole Booth is Commercial Director at Destinology. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.