With splendid crystal clean waters and more than 3 km of fine golden sand, it is located in a quieter area than Levante. There is a full range of services and leisure facilities, such as floating platforms with slides out to sea in high season, the beach library, specially-equipped areas for the disabled, life guards and play areas. The unique design of Poniente beach promenade recreates the shape of the cliffs and waves in the sea with different coloured sections, making it a remarkable attraction to visit.

The 178km Vee Drive Tour unfolds one stunning vista after another. Setting off on the N25 from Waterford, this driving loop ducks between the Comeragh Mountains and Copper Coast following the N72 to its first stop, the dazzling heritage town of Lismore. Lismore’s showpiece is its castle, founded in 1185, which belongs to the Duke of Devonshire today. Leaving Lismore, follow the R668 as it twists and turns through the Knockmealdown Mountains culminating in breath-taking fashion at the Vee, a hairpin bend overlooking the Golden Vale. Journey from Cahir back to Waterford via the N24 stopping at the heritage gems of Cahir Castle and Ormond Castle. The Vee Drive also features two spurs, which you can use as detours if time permits. The first zips down to Ardmore, where a round tower, cathedral and hermitage captivate visitors to this day. The second spur detours, via St. Declan’s Way.

The famous dunes have been a nature reserve since 1897, although scientists theorise they only date back to 1755 when a Lisbon-born tsunami hit Gran Cannaria. The Faro de Maspalomas, an active 19th century lighthouse, is a 68-metre tall man-made landmark. It stands proudly at the end of the spectacular 2,710-metre-long beach.

This pagoda was rebuilt after being destroyed in a World War II bombing. It was constructed at the same time as the Sule and Shwedagon Pagodas. What is unusual is that you can walk inside and look at relics in showcases.