Moscow summer is not too sunny to say the least. That is why many Muscovites prefer a warmer climate, seaside resorts, and cleaner air. Beautiful Lifestyle editor-in-chief Mila Goncharova-Legrand recommends six destinations that would cater to the most demanding travelers.
1. Mykonos, Greece
The lively island of Mykonos is undoubtedly one of Greece’s most popular retreats that has already surpassed Santorini and levelled with Ibiza. The season peaks between July and September when the sun graces local Mediterranean landscapes. October is the calamari season. The island has been a well-known party spot since the 1950s. This island was the retreat of choice for Jacqueline Kennedy and Aristotelis Onassis, Mick Jagger, and Rudolf Nureyev.
Since 2001 the island’s glamour reputation has been well maintained by Dsquared2 parties attended by Naomi Campbell, Paris Hilton, Kendall Jenner, and Bella Hadid. Modern-day jetsetters love Mykonos for its all-night parties, trendy restaurants (often combined with beaches), and drugstores with medical cosmetics. Fashion brands and companies are frequent guests of the island: Dolce & Gabbana shot their ads here while Maria Grazia Curie has opened several local pop-up stores to showcase new collections.
Where to stay: Belvedere and Santa Marina hotels. Local marinas have mooring spots for yachts and kitesurfing facilities.
2. St. Tropez, France
The azure shores of St. Tropez with its gentle climate, sights, and the fame of the golden youth’s most beloved retreat is another perfect location to shake off the city stress. The town is perfect both for those who love beach holidays and those who prefer sports. Tens of festivals financed by premium brands come here every summer: Harley-Euro motorcycle show, classical music fest, and Festival de Ramatuelle theatre fest. In August and September the harbours of Côte d’Azur get filled with contenders and fans of L’Aoutienne-Trophée Pourchet regattas.
Where to stay: La Réserve Ramatuelle. The hotel offers 14 villas with a hospitable Southern atmosphere and a menu designed by Eric Canino, the Michelin star chef of La Voile restaurant. Last spring a beach suitable both for family and group retreats was opened to the guests right next to the hotel.
3. Ibiza, Spain
A small island of the Balearic archipelago is the global symbol of freedom and all-around fun. Some 50 years ago Ricardo Urgell came up with the concept of ‘night clubs’ at a local Pacha. It is a tradition to watch local sunsets before setting off to a party. Everyone is equal at Ibiza’s dancefloors. Still, one is quite likely to run into a supermodel or a Forbes list millionaire.
If you are not a fan of dancing all night long, don’t rush to leave the island yet. The northern part of Ibiza is a spot for agricultural tourism and home to cosy beaches. The old town has a local history museum and an amateur opera theatre. Surprisingly enough, there is a well-developed infrastructure for family retreats. There are foreign language summer camps, football training facilities, and horse-riding courses.
Where to stay: Gran Hotel is the pearl of the island. The hotel is across the road from Pacha and next door to Cipriani and La Gala. However, please plan your holiday ahead. Many regulars book their next year’s stay right before leaving.
4. Porto Cervo, Sardinia, Italy
A small town with only a few hundred inhabitants is known for its emerald sea, Gaudi’s architecture, and brand boutiques. Shopping in an indispensable part of every trip to Porto Cervo. Valentino, Prada, Hermes, Versace, Bvlgari, and other famous houses sell unique items at their local shops. Cosy Italian houses and the town’s main sight, Stella Maris church, make the town a perfect spot for Instagram photoshoots.
Fawaz Gruosi, founder of de GRISOGNO jewelry house, loves celebrating his birthday here and bringing over businessmen, models, and Hollywood stars in early August.
Where to stay: book a villa or an apartment. Porto Cervo lives off tourists, so there is no shortage of available housing.
5. Sveti Stefan, Montenegro
Mediterranean climate, short flights, visa-free entry, and European culture make Montenegro a perfect spot for a weekend retreat or a long stay. St. Stephen hotel island is tied to the town of Budva by a narrow strip of land. Despite its miniature size the island offers more than pink sands and an atmosphere of an ancient European town. The island offers diving and yachting facilities. Thanks to Oleg Deripaska Porto Montenegro now has own immigration and customs offices, a lower VAT for yacht maintenance, and duty-free fuel.
Where to stay: California Hotel, a beach hotel with a panoramic view to the most photographed sight in Montenegro. The hotel is located right next to outstanding pink sand beaches.
6. The Datça Peninsula, Turkey
Going to Turkey, think of more sights apart from Istanbul and traditional beaches. Beautiful Lifestyle recommends Turkey’s revived luxury retreats: harbours are filled with white sand, while local restaurants invite famous chefs and artists from all over the world. Datça’s beaches are perfect for taking a break from the stress of big cities.
Where to stay: D Maris Bay. The hotel is located in a picturesque spot where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean. The guests may enjoy five beaches, gyms, spa, and restaurants with the world’s best cuisines: from Turkish national to Asian. You may also stroll along the beaches holding a glass of Moёt&Chandon from the branded bar.
Translated by Tony Savosin
