From the heart of Italy's truffle-rich landscapes to the olive trees of Greece, the globe offers a culinary tapestry that transforms gifting into a refined experience. Elevate your senses with the delicate sweetness of French macarons from Ladurée or indulge in the rare pleasure of Spanish acorn-fed ham, Jamón Ibérico. Here are ten gourmet food gift suggestions for Valentine’s Day 2024.
From islands in the Med to sunny cities without the crowds: readers’ favourite winter trips in southern Europe
25.12.2023 - 02:40 / theguardian.com
After some gentle winter sunshine to warm your skin and soothe your soul? Take a trip to Gozo, an island with wonderful coastal scenery a short ferry ride from Malta. Walk along the coastline; swim in untouched waters on secluded beaches and admire the neo-Romanesque architecture of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu. Spend the evenings eating freshly caught fish with a glass of Maltese wine, which rivals its Mediterranean neighbours in quality.
Laura B
Asturias, in northern Spain, is chilly and wet in December, which was perfect for us. We stayed in an affordable apartment in the old town of Oviedo, which is beautiful. The Museo de Bellas Artes and Museo Arqueológico de Asturias were excellent, free, and almost empty. Armed with umbrellas, we wandered the tangle of pedestrianised streets, alleys and plazas, stopping at sidrerías to sample local cider. We browsed the Christmas market and followed inflatable giant horses to see the Christmas lights switch on. The city is surrounded by vivid green hills and snow-topped mountains. We also visited the wild beaches of the rugged Costa Verde.
Mary
About 10 miles south of Athens is Vouliagmeni, an affluent suburb brushing the coast. Its lake, warmer than the sea at this time of year because of hot springs underneath, is said to contain healing properties. Perhaps more importantly, there are fewer people there in winter than in summer – giving the experience a private, almost mystical feel. Early mornings or late afternoons are best at this time of year. Nearby is Rumors, which serves maybe the best coffee in town.
Lee Kelleher
Guardian Travel readers' tips
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The relative warmth of Naples makes it an accommodating city for winter travellers who want to explore. The city takes on a gothic feel, so pull on your boots and traipse the cobbled streets of piazzerias and winding alleys. Already atmospheric, the history of Pompeii comes to life even more on a grey winter’s day. In summer the sweltering heat of a pizzeria can feel suffocating; in winter the relief of entering one with a wood-fired oven, and tucking into world-renowned pizza, makes for one of the cosiest European experiences.
Natalie
Yes, the resorts are like ghost towns, but the beaches are still there, the mountains are still there (walk the Ruta de Pedra en Sec, the Dry Stone Route), the Kodak-moment villages are still there. Stroll some of the eight miles of beach in Alcúdia. The mountain-fringed views of the Med are the same as in July, without waiting for
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