In the northern hemisphere, winter is almost over with for another year. The cherry blossom is making its presence felt and parks revel in the glorious colours of spring bulbs. If you’re looking for a break, here’s where you should travel this spring.
Japan
Let’s start with the obvious. Spring is cherry blossom season in Japan and chasing the pink blooms is big business. What’s known as sakura season can’t be pinned down to just one month. The nature of Japan’s geography and the north to south spread of its islands means that the blossom “moves” as the temperatures creep up. You won’t be alone. Nature’s spectacle draws thousands of visitors to the country’s most scenic spots. In Tokyo, try Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen or the tree-lined Nakameguro canal, especially pretty at night when it is lit by lanterns.
The UK
Brits come out of hibernation when the skies clear and the sun summons up a bit of strength. Spring is arguably the best times to get out into the countryside and take a walk in one of the country’s ancient woodlands. The browns of last autumn’s fallen leaves are liberally scattered with the intense hues of bluebells. Don your wellies and seek local advice about which woodland walk ends at a historic pub. Mundana’s choice: The High Corner Inn near to Broomy enclosure in the New Forest, easily combinable with a few days in Central London.
The Seychelles
Luxury breaks don’t get much better than those you’ll encounter in The Seychelles. This exquisite Indian Ocean archipelago has made a name for itself with a clutch of incredible resorts and private islands. It’s the perfect place to be pampered. In spring, the north west trade winds retreat, taking with them unpleasant hot and sticky weather. If you can drag yourself out of your sun bed, take a trip to the UNESCO listed Vallée de Mai on Praslin or take a stroll along Anse Source D’Argent beach.
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St Lucia
Spring marks the end of high season in the Caribbean but for verdant St Lucia, April’s your best chance of enjoying a rain-free vacation. Luxury resorts are easy to come by, some with fabulous views to accompany equally fabulous facilities and service. While you’re on the island, check out the landmark Pitons, the volcanic mud pools at Sulphur Springs and the lush cocoa plantations of the island’s hilly interior. Oh, and did we mention there’s a party every Friday – the Gros Islet jump up?
The Netherlands
The bulb fields of the Netherlands are a delight to explore and nowhere more so than Keukenhof. This year, the gardens turn 70, several million bulbs exploding into a riot of colour. Alongside every conceivable variety of tulip, you’ll also see daffodils, freesias, roses, hyacinths and more. The Netherlands is compact, so it’s simple to combine Keukenhof with Amsterdam, Delft, Gouda and the windmills of Zaanse Schans.
The USA
Late spring sees the awakening of Acadia National Park in the north-easterly state of Maine. Brutal winters ensure that this attractive coastal peninsula sees far fewer visitors than western parks such as Yosemite or Yellowstone. Acadia’s pink granite cliffs and pebble beaches lined with firs and pines are pretty as a picture. Base yourself in the charming coastal town of Bar Harbor and treat yourself to a lobster dinner.
Mundana’s experts are waiting to hear from you. Where will you pick for your spring vacation?