Bournemouth Pier stands as a historic testament to the town’s Victorian-era origins as a seaside resort. While there has been a pier at Bournemouth since 1856, the structure that graces the shoreline today, stretching over 304 metres, was completed in the early 20th century. It remains the central focus of the beachfront, a grand and enduring symbol of traditional British coastal leisure. Today, the pier is all about action and great views. You can fuel up with a coffee and a pasty at the entrance before heading straight for the award-winning RockReef, an indoor adventure playground where you can tackle climbing walls or take a leap of faith. For the biggest rush, launch off the tower on the PierZip, the world's first pier-to-shore zip wire, soaring right over the waves. After all that, settle in at the Key West Bar & Restaurant at the pier's end. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with fantastic food, live music, and those unbeatable panoramic sea views.

Praised by The Boston Globe as "Shakespeare as Willie himself intended," Waterville’s Shakespeare in the Valley features professional actors performing classic plays on an outdoor stage. The performances stay true to traditional Shakespearean style, offering interactive dialogue and nonstop entertainment.

A compact, sheltered cove where the tiny paradise beach of Mikri Vigla is located used to only be visited by a handful of travellers in-the-know, but has become increasingly popular with holidaymakers over the past years. There is a single (very popular) tavern here, ideal for a refreshing retreat.

Most people think of Normandy when it comes to the Allied landings, but Provence had its own in August 1944. This memorial tells that story, from the landings to the region’s liberation. If you’re into history, it’s well worth a visit.