Best European Getaways for Couples in August

European holidays in August are dominated by family trips to the seaside, but there are lots of great spots for a romantic getaway as well.

Lanzarote might have a reputation for sun, sea and sand package holidays, but there is another side to this volcanic island in the Canaries. Check into a country house like Caserio de Mozaga in the center of the island, or stick to the northeast coast where you can sleep in a yurt at Finca de Arrieta.

While family holidays in Greece tend to involve Crete and the larger islands, Kefalonia is the top choice for a romantic break. Spend time at the Daf Noudi beach, and get a boat over to the neighboring island of Ithaca.

If mountains are more your thing, the Soca Valley in Slovenia is an amazing spot. Stay in the village of Bovec if you want to go mountain biking or whitewater rafting, or head off to the fashionable mountain retreat of Nebesa. The chalets offer comfort, not luxury, but the isolation makes for a romantic getaway.

Sintra is a wonderful town near to Lisbon, Portugal. Its larger neighbor has grown in popularity in recent years, but the crowds haven’t quite reached Sintra. Check into one of the luxury palace hotels, such as the Hotel Tivoli Palacio de Seteais, for a romantic break.