With Easter falling early this year on March 27th, you have a few more options than normal depending on which week you take off. But more options means harder decisions! Are you going to head to the mountains or the beach? Do you want to explore a new city or relax by the pool? We’ve put together this list of our top 2016 Easter holiday ideas to help you make your choice. For more inspiration, why not check out these Easter alternatives?
Iceland
Whilst it may not be the best time to see the Aurora Borealis, there’s still plenty to see and do in Iceland in March and April. Why not consider Lake Mývatn near Húsavík as alternatives to Reykjavik and the Golden Circle?
Húsavík
Húsavík is a small town on the north coast and a great place for whale watching but the big attractions lie inland. If the weather is warmer, Húsavík is famous for its geothermal springs and there are a number to choose from. Golfers can try the challenging 9 hole Katlavöllur course (clubs can be hired) or head to the Whale Museum putting green if it’s still too cold to be outside!
Lake Mývatn
Photo by: A. Karnholz/Fotolia
Lake Mývatn lies 56km south of the town and is home to a huge number of insects and birds. This really is a great place for naturalists or bird watchers. Located in an extremely volcanic area, this is the Iceland you’ve read about. Craters, lava formations, and waterfalls are everywhere making Mývatn a great place to see the real Iceland.
Other sites in Iceland
- Head to the islands of Vestmannaeyjar off the south coast to see stunning rock formations and a huge variety of wildlife.
- Explore Skaftafell National Park’s amazing ice caves and waterfalls.
- Explore the inside of Thrihnukagigur. Half an hour outside Reykjavik, you’ll be lowered into the magma chamber of this extinct volcano.
Provence, France
Photo by: LiliGraphie/Fotolia
Whilst towns such as Aix and Avignon take all the plaudits, there are a number of wonderful villages available within easy driving distance of Marseille. Vaison la Romaine is close to Orange and is home to some fantastic wineries and Roman excavations. Alternatively, Ménerbes in the Luberon offers some great restaurants, a laid back atmosphere, and a great base for exploring.
Gordon Verge
It may be a bit of a trek but the Gordon Verge is well worth a visit. Considered one of Europe’s most beautiful river canyons, the Verdon River has carved a channel 25 kilometres long and up to 700 metres deep through the Provencal countryside. A hugely popular attraction in the summer, crowds should be smaller over the Easter period.
Camargue National Park
Located on the west coast of Marseille, the Camargue is a fascinating place to explore. Around 500 species of birds can be found in the marshlands of which, the flamingo is most famous. The area is also home to the renowned Camargue horses, cowboys (gardians), and Camargue bulls. The local bull fights are different to the ones you know of in Spain. Here, the men must pluck a pompom or rosette from the horns of the bull which always lives to fight another day.
Other sites in Provence
- Châteauneuf-du-Pape – Home to one of the greatest wines in the world. It seems silly to come all this way and not pay a visit! Explore the vineyards and sample some vintages in a local cave.
- Visit the Palais des Papes in Avignon. Once the papal residence during the 14th century, it’s one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe.
- A Year in Provence tour – Bring a copy of Peter Mayles’ bestseller and trace your way through Provence of the book.
Sicily
Photo by: giuliaisabella/Fotolia
By late March the rainy season should have ended and, thanks to the early spring season, the almond trees will be in bloom making Sicily a great option. Whilst it won’t be scorching, the average temperature of 10°C means you can do plenty of exploring without suffering from heat stroke!
Cefalu
Located on the north coast, Cefalu is an enchanting city which attracts more than its fair share of tourists in summer – make the most of the smaller numbers at Easter! The cathedral dominates the city and dates from 1131. Its Norman design was intended to make it look like a fortification from a distance to ward of pirates. The cloisters are small and stylish and the Presbyterium mosaic is well worth seeing.
Agrigento
Once one of the largest cities in the world (4th to be precise), modern Agrigento is a rather unattractive place. Its redeeming features are the amazing Greek ruins and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Valley of the Temples. There’s also a striking medieval city centre once you get past the modern tower blocks and the Piazzetta Vadalà is particularly nice.
Other sites in Sicily
- Visit Palermo’s Palazzo dei Normanni. The former seat of the Kings of Sicily, there is much to see here including the stunning Cappella Palatina.
- Whilst here, make sure you see the Capuchin Catacombs. This macabre tourist attraction is home to around 1,200 mummies.
- Explore the Greek theatre at Taormina and catch some of the best views of Mount Etna.
Be sure to sign up to our newsletter below and follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest travel tips and news.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Want our blogs emailed direct to you? Sign up below to get updates featuring our blogs and car hire top tips. Receive the best deals on car hire straight to your inbox.
