Top 5: Spring destinations

Gorge of Samaria, Crete

Although the gorge of Samaria is open from May to October it's at the beginning of the season when its flora and fauna look their best. Handily it's also quiet in comparison to high summer so if you set off early enough you can have the 16km (10 miles) walk virtually to yourself.

Keukenhof Park, Holland

In a country famed for its flowers it takes something special to stand out and Keukenhof Park certainly does. The huge park contains millions of tulips and other flowers so it's unsurprising that its won awards for being one of Europe's top attractions.

Hermanus, South Africa

The sight of whales off the coast of South Africa in the town of Hermanus is a sure sign of a new season. There's no need to leave the shore as Hermanus is a superb location to watch whales from land, although boat trips are available. Shark cage diving is another more daring option.

Yosemite National Park, USA

Spring in Yosemite is the prime time to see the park's numerous cascading waterfalls in their fullest of flows. At this time of year, the crowds have yet to swell in this most peaceful of places and a charmed few have seen a lunar rainbow from the base of the Yosemite Falls.

Sark Island, UK

Each spring, the unspoilt beauty of Sark Island - a small Channel Island off Guernsey - comes alive in a blaze of blue, pink and white as the spectacular wild flowers dominate the coastal paths and headlands. Visit Sark between 24 April and 8 May when the island celebrates the annual Wild Flower Fortnight.