6 Stunning Summer Spaces

As blossoms infuse the air and the sun imparts a healthy glow, there’s an urge to emerge from our cocoons and do a touch of exploring. Breathtaking views, ancient citadels and gorgeous gardens beckon as we plan our next adventure into the great outdoors. And, with an air of expectancy, we sally forth in search of all things inspirational. So, whether you love a high tea in the country or a night on an exotic beach, these stunning summer spaces are sure to delight.

Cappadocia, Turkey

With its maze of underground cities, breathtaking volcanic rock formations and exotic culture, the World Heritage Site that is Cappadocia will take your breath away. Instagram famous, you’ll be hard pushed not to experience the sunrise from the heavens in one of its 200 hot air balloons. Or don your backpack for a solo cave exploration through what is the world’s most unusual high-rise civilization.

With a name that means “province of good horses”, a day in the saddle is a tempting option. And, if you’re a lover of food, then indulge in a meal at the glorious Topdeck Cave restaurant in Goreme. Design aficionados will agree that perfection is picking out a Turkish rug from one of the many popular carpet stores. But, whatever you choose one thing’s for sure. You’ll want to stay there forever.

The Scarlet Hotel, UK

If you’re yearning for an adult getaway or just a quiet day in the country, The Scarlet Hotel in Cornwall is your answer. Nestled on a hilltop with extraordinary views of the wildflowers and rockpools that scatter the surrounds, this tranquil destination is a breath of fresh air. With a restorative spa and nothing to distract you but the sound of the ocean, Scarlet is an eco-sanctuary that encourages ease and sustainable living.

For day visitors, the restaurant produces scrumptious, locally sourced offerings and, as every item is made to order, request 24 hours’ notice per booking. Their fabulous afternoon tea is noteworthy and worth a drive. It includes a selection of heavenly sandwiches on artisanal bread, toasty scones with clotted Cornish cream and patisseries that dreams are made of. If you’re staying overnight, the décor is sublime – and dogs are welcome.

Monet’s Gardens, France

Untamed and infused with glorious splashes of colour, Monet’s famous gardens can be found in Giverny, just on the edge of Normandy. His specially commissioned house, which for art lovers is in itself spectacular, is surrounded by vistas that are nothing short of remarkable. Now overseen by the Fondation Monet, it is open between April and November for viewing, attracting thousands of people each year.

Both the flower garden, Clos Normand, and the astoundingly beautiful Japanese water gardens were the inspiration for many of his works. And spending quiet moments taking it all in will leave you with a sense of peace and pleasure. Just a short train ride from Paris, it makes for a memorable moment - one which we highly recommend. End your trip with a light meal at the “Les Nympheas” restaurant just across the street.

Pokhara, Nepal

If you’re an adventure seeker with a love for nature, then Pokhara, Nepal is where you should be spending your summer. Surrounded by the Annapurna Range, it’s a hiker's paradise and a destination spot for those doing the mountaineering circuit. With a name meaning “city of lakes and ponds”, it is enveloped by numerous breathtaking bodies of water, so boating is a main attraction.

Enthusiasts can also add bungee jumping, ziplining and paragliding to their list of fun things to do. A popular destination for tourists, the city itself is bustling with activity. For the best Indian food experience, visit the Utopia Garden & Snack Bar and relax in their spacious garden facing Fewa Lake. With a plethora of inexpensive hotels and guesthouses on offer, it’s a rewarding trip. Take winter woollies even in peak season, though – it can get chilly fast.

Corfu, Greece

For those wanting some fun in the sun, the island of Corfu, or Kerkyra in its native tongue, is the place to be. Just off the north-western fringe of Greece and surrounded by the warm Ionian Sea, it’s nothing short of heaven on Earth. And forget about hotels, because this fabulous 3 bedroomed villa is up for grabs every season. Let’s face it, paradise doesn’t get much better than watching yachts sail across blue waters from a glass-trimmed terrace. Or floating in a gently lit infinity pool under the Mediterranean night sky.

So we suggest you round up 6 of your closest friends and get packing. Gorge yourself at Nikolas’ Traditional Taverna, a seafront gem in Agni Bay, meander through the old town of Corfu or visit the Vlacherna Monastery positioned on a tiny island just off the shoreline. From sumptuous food to Corfiot hospitality, this is the place to be!

Cape Town, South Africa

Beneath beautiful Table Mountain, one of the 7 Wonders of Nature, you’ll find Cape Town. A place so jam-packed with splendour, you’ll want to put down roots. With its jaw-dropping beaches, commercial harbour, glamourous nightlife and the only penguin colony in Africa, it’s a summer spot that’s truly hard to beat. Take a ferry to Robben Island, paraglide off Signal Hill, quench your thirst at the Beer House or amble down the colourful streets of Bo-Kaap. Then end your day under the stars at the V & A Waterfront, where all the magic begins.

From bredies to bunny chow, the food is sublime. And for those besotted with wine, travel further afield and marvel at some of the most magnificent vineyards in the world. From the serenity of Kirstenbosch’s Botanical Gardens to thrill-seeking dips with sharks, you’ll be utterly spoilt for choice – and begging for a few days more.

FCI Lifestyle

If you're like us and can look at dreamy pics of beautiful places all day, take a look at our designers' interiors of the week picks here and here.