Where to go on holiday in June 2014

UK Ministry of Defence / Creative Commons

For thrill-seekers

Short haul: Ceredigion, Wales

Unlike the bustling Welsh capital, Cardiff, rural Ceredigion has a more organic energy. Located on the scenic west coast, this county gives visitors a sense that they’re experiencing something previously undiscovered.

The varied landscape lends itself well to a range of adventure activities; water-lovers can go surfing, kayaking or sailing, while those who haven’t got their sea-legs can go mountain biking through Bwlch Nant yr Arian forest, camping in the Teifi meadows or hiking and horse riding along the coast.

For relaxation, visitors could book themselves in at one of Ceredigion’s highly-acclaimed spas or unwind with Mother Nature on a dolphin-watching excursion in the Irish Sea.

Long haul: Tasmania, Australia

Australia's wild-lands are the perfect backdrop for a hike
coolendelkid / Thinkstock

Australia’s wild island state attracts roughly one million visitors annually and most of them are of the thrill-seeking variety – the hang-gliding in the morning and cliff-diving in the evening sort of folk.

Discerning adrenaline junkies have many adventures to choose from; from climbing 2,000m (6,561ft) mountain ranges and surfing 20-foot waves to quad-bike across dunes in the desert. Tamer tourists are just as well catered for; hiking trails and wildlife abounds in Tasmania’s wondrous World Heritage listed national parks. Some are lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the rare Tasmanian devil.

The capital, Hobart, has a vibrant arts and crafts scene, which has lead to the presence of several bazaar-style markets and antique shops, as well as art galleries and museums.

Gastronomes are also looked after; this other-worldly state is renowned for its wine, cheeses and rich variety of restaurants. It’s a long way there, but well worth it.   

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For city slickers

Short haul: Frankfurt, Germany

Frankfurt's skyline has earned it the nickname 'Mainhattan'
Sean Pavone / Thinkstock

Germany’s self-professed ‘Mainhattan’ is not quite the European equivalent of the original, but for travellers who’ve heard of the cities rumoured staleness, prepare to be surprised.

Frankfurt’s “Fifth Avenue,” Zeil Shopping Street, can bring out the shopaholic in anyone with its local boutiques and international department stores, which showcase the latest designer wares.

If all that shopping works up an appetite, then Frankfurt has numerous Michelin-starred restaurants to choose from.

The city’s not lacking on culture either, with the Museumsufer (museum embankment) district, boasting one of Europe’s largest natural history museums, the Senckenberg, and the Museum of Modern Art-Frankfurt.

Opernplatzfest – one of Germany’s largest food festivals – happens in Frankfurt’s Opera Square every June. Visitors can stroll through the dozens of vendors for a taste of international cuisine, a nice brew, and live music by local musicians.

Long haul: Nashville, Tennessee

Country legend, Carrie Underwood, at CMA Fest 2013
Creative Commons / Larry Darling

This city is all about variety. Start your trip with a visit to the Parthenon – an exact replica of the ancient Grecian ruin, which contains a highly-praised art gallery – and make sure you take in a live show at the historic Grand Ole Opry (a must visit, even if you don’t know all the words to Achy Breaky Heart).

By night try bar-hopping around Nashville’s ‘high street,’ lower Broadway, and don’t leave without indulging in a real southern barbecue at Monell’s.

June travellers will arrive in time for the CMA Music Festival, which is essentially the family reunion of country lovers from across the globe.

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For beach bums 

Short haul: Montenegro

Montenegro has over 120 beaches along its shoreline
Batareykin / Thinkstock

While Northern Europe flirts with summer, Montenegro is positively roasting. Beach bums may be overwhelmed with choice – the Montenegrin coastline has over 120 beaches along the Adriatic Sea.

If you’ve ever imagined your life as a Bond movie, visit Sveti Stefan, its Casino Royale feel makes it one of the most exclusive summer retreats in Eastern Europe.

The regions of Ulcinj, Bar and Budva are top spots for sunbathing and swimming. But it’s not all sand; visitors can take a break from tanning and do some sightseeing at the Bay of Kotor cliffs or the magnificent Ostrog Monastery, which nestles above the Bjelopavlic valley.

And with Ryanair launching new, low-cost routes from London Stansted to the Montenegrin capital, Podgorica, this Adriatic gem is now just a short hop away. 

Long haul: Turks & Caicos

Turks and Caicos is home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches
Galiptynutz / Thinkstock

Pack an extra suitcase just for your sun-block because you won’t want to leave the white sandy beaches of Turks and Caicos. June is a prime time to visit this Caribbean archipelago, with temperatures averaging 29-32°C (85-90°F).

Snorkelling, sailing, paddle-boarding and fishing are all favourite pastimes here. Grace Bay on Providenciales Island is one of the best beaches in the Caribbean; its coral reefs are a big draw for scuba divers.

Island cuisine is as varied as its native population, ranging from traditional Afro-Caribbean fare to European and Asian dishes.

If you’ve got more than a week, then island hopping is the best way to get a feel for this diverse island nation. 

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