Top 6 Breath-taking Breaks For 2012.

Are you still trying to choose your annual holiday location for 2012? Being bombarded with so many stunning locations can make an already challenging task, nigh on impossible! If you are constrained by a budget or simply want some inspiration, consider our list of the top 6 holiday hotspots:

Up and coming Croatia

Cited as an up and coming location for a few years now, Croatia has the benefit of a gorgeous climate and breath-taking scenery. Suitable for those seeking a beach break, or those wishing to tour the sights, Croatia should whet everyone’s holiday appetite. Zadar is packed full of culture and contains a number of Romanesque features. Sun worshippers will easily find the perfect spot along the Dalamatia Coast. The vast array of flora and fauna, coupled with the truly spectacular views also make the Plitvice Lakes a must see.

Beautiful Cyprus

Albeit Cyprus is becoming incredibly popular, especially with families, this wondrous island should also have wider appeal. Coral Bay, which lies just outside of Paphos is filled with long stretches of golden sand, great for those who love water sports and considerably quieter that its close neighbour. Travel to Polis and Latchi which both border the Akamas National Park. Packed full of hiking opportunities, connect with the great outdoors here.

Breath-taking Menorca

Smaller and more tranquil than its fellow Balearic Islands of Mallorca and Ibiza, this petite gem offers a fantastic alternative to the usual break in Spain. Mahon is home to some wondrous gothic architecture and fabulous local cuisine. Santo Tomas is at the foot of Mount Toro and is packed with small town charm; make sure that you explore this picture-perfect location.

Historic Malta

Primarily known for its historical prominence, many people visit here for the museums and monuments. The nearby island of Gozo is full of rocky coves, and endless sandy beaches, ideal for swimming, snorkelling or just plain relaxing. Back on the island of Malta, Valletta offers a mixture of shopping and never-ending expanses of coastline.

Mountainous Madeira

The winning combination of a breath-taking mountainous backdrop, coupled with a lush panorama already puts Madeira at the top of many peoples wish list. Ribeiro Frio, which is surrounded by the Ribeiro Frio Natural Park is littered with plentiful walking and hiking opportunities. The compact nature of the island makes it easy to navigate your way to a beach, or to the bustling town of Funchal.

Sunny Turkey

Growing in popularity due to the endless beaches and sunny climate coupled with Asian and European influences, Turkey should be on your travel to do list. Dalyan, whilst being home to many sea turtles, ancient tombs, thermal springs and mud baths also has a plethora of other sights to add to its appeal. The ever-popular Turtle Beach is nearby and offers fresh water one side and sea water on the other, certainly a little different. Izmir, home to Ephesus, one of the best preserved ancient cities in Turkey, exists alongside a vast array of city based attractions such as The Agora and more.

We hope that this list has given you some great holiday ideas, half the battle when you are set on getting away to sunnier climbs. All that remains now is to hunt down the best deal.