For most people, island breaks elicit thoughts of charming white-sand beaches lapped by turquoise waters or waves rolling gently against rugged shores. This is at least part of the reason why hordes of British holidaymakers head to the sun-soaked islands of the Mediterranean every summer. Yet popular Mediterranean destinations such as Malta hotels, Cyprus and Crete have much more to offer than just beaches. Their natural beauty has been a source of inspiration for writers and artists, their shores have witnessed the wax and wane of various rulers and empires and their landscapes have been impressed with the characteristics of some of Europe’s most dazzling cultures. Malta, for example, offers visitors the opportunity to see two of Caravaggio’s most impressive works, as well as some great beaches on which to top up their tan.
Crete
Walking enthusiasts from right across Europe are drawn to Crete by its rugged, mountainous interior, which makes it stand out from other Mediterranean islands. Although much of the east of Crete has been the victim of somewhat less than sympathetic development, the west of the island remains largely unspoilt, with many of the island’s long-standing traditions having diligently preserved. The cradle of one of Europe’s earliest civilisations, Crete boasts an embarrassment of historical riches. Famously, the Minoan Palace at Knossos was rediscovered by Arthur Evans at the start of the twentieth century. But Crete hotels aren’t just for history buffs, and its white-sand beaches, such as Elafonisi, are among the best in the Mediterranean.
Cyprus
Having been under Byzantine, Ottoman, Venetian and British rule in the past, Cyprus has been subject to diverse influences in the past, but its culture remains remarkably distinctive. As you’d expect, Cyprus offers the usual combination of guaranteed sunshine, great beaches and a host of sites of cultural interest. The Troodos region boasts some of the most impressive Byzantine monasteries you will find anywhere, all of which are richly decorated with murals and icons. Dominated by its impressive gothic abbey and perched on the hills of northern Cyprus, the village of Bellapais is famously where Lawrence Durrell wrote Bitter Lemons. Dining out in Cyprus can be a real treat. Cypriot cuisine is deliciously fresh; with fishermen supplying Cyprus hotels with the day’s catch straight off the boat. But Cyprus is most famous for its local cheese, halloumi, which locals like to have grilled with mint and watermelon.