Spring may have sprung but the unpredictable showers and fleeting sunshine still have us dreaming of escapes to warmer shores.

And while we all love a city break full of sightseeing and exploration, there’s something particularly decadent about a holiday spent mostly horizontally. 

Lying by the pool. Lying on the beach. Floating on a lilo. Sleeping in without guilt. All perfectly respectable holiday pastimes that just don’t feel as luxurious in the UK, even when we’re blessed with good weather.

Luckily for you, there’s no need to suffer through a long-haul flight to get your slice of holiday heaven. In fact, we’ve found a crop of European gems that will have you donning sunnies and shorts in under four hours. 

So, if you’re looking for a break that’s positively frivolous, below is our edit of the best spots to enjoy a lazy girl holiday in Europe this summer…

Palatial extravagance meets villa chic at family-run hotel Phaea Blue Palace. Perched on the Elounda coast and overlooking the historical island of Spinalonga, there’s no better place to sunbathe, switch off and live out your White Lotus fantasies. 

Start your days nibbling fresh fruit and eating made-to-order Cretan omelette at the terrace restaurant and spend your afternoons lounging by either of two pools or on the private beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, a traditional caïque boat trip is a must for expansive views of the glittering Aegean Sea.

Bed and breakfast stays for two, from €334 per night.

If you’re a foodie with a penchant for the dreamy boho aesthetic, you’ll be right at home at Cook’s Club. Nestled in the crook of Kommeno Bay, this adults-only haven is the perfect spot to enjoy traditional Greek delicacies and conquer your list of summer reads.

Yoga, Pilates, tennis and a wellness suite (complete with spa and sauna) cater for those who like to stay active during their down time while resident DJs and live bands set the mood with uplifting beats. You can even graze on street food and à la carte dishes without leaving your lounger – simply order via your smartphone. If that’s not lazy girl luxury, we don’t know what is.

Bed and board stays for two, from €300 per night.

If you’re searching for a serene escape but want to be close enough to the action to join in as you please, this is the place for you. Once a 17th century manor house, Hotel Claude overlooks the bustling town of Marbella and is considered its first boutique hotel. 

With seven rooms capturing the essence of Andalusia, whether you’re savouring a late lunch on the rooftop terrace or sipping cocktails in the glamorous patio gallery, you’re sure to feel at home. A 10-minute stroll will take you to Playa del Alicate, home to Marbella’s iconic strip of beach clubs. The best part? It’s just a two-hour flight from London.

Bed and breakfast stays for two, from €336 per night.

Dreaming of some downtime on the Côte d’Azur? La Plage is happy to make those dreams a reality. With two heated outdoor pools (one of which boasts a stunning sea view), an all-inclusive offering and a beach less than 50m away, the classic summer holiday comforts of this spot make it the perfect place to unwind and relax. 

Pad down to the beach for a day of soaking in the sun and exploring the coves of the Esterel. Or, rent a bike and cycle 20 minutes into the centre of  Saint Raphael to enjoy the treasures of the harbour and get the full French Riviera experience.

Comfort double for two with breakfast, from €198 per night.

Renowned as one of the most vibrant city break destinations, you’d be forgiven for thinking you can’t find a peaceful retreat in the centre of Barcelona. But just off of the iconic Via Latena, you’ll find Ohla, a stylish and elegant hotel complete with a rooftop pool and its very own Michelin-starred restaurant.

Marrying the neo-classical charm of the gothic quarter with contemporary art and the warmth of Catalan hospitality, this inner city haven makes for an opulent yet laid-back break. Plus, the beach is just a 10-minute walk away. What’s not to love?

Room-only rates for two, from €356 per night.

Images: courtesy of hotels and venues