Ibiza is a classic summer destination, but it can be pricey to get to and stay there – but a travel agent has revealed one alternative that Brits may ant on their radar
This Spanish destination is a ‘dupe’ of Ibiza(Image: LLUIS GENE/AFP via Getty Images)
If you’re looking for an Ibiza-style escape on a budget, then a Spanish destination is emerging as an alternative to the Balearic island, and holidays can be as much as 45% cheaper.
While this Spanish resort is on the mainland, it still offers a balance of lively nightlife and laidback days by the coast, and like Ibiza, it is well-known for its party scene. From big, lively clubs to stylish beach clubs, boutique hotels, and Mediterranean restaurants, you’ll find Balearic vibes on the mainland.
According to the travel team at Sundeals, Lloret de Mar has many of the elements that made Ibiza so popular, but if you visit in September, you can find deals around half the price of a summer break on the island.
The vast beaches have a laidback vibe(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Late September and early October can also be a great time to visit the resort, as you still enjoy 24C days and warm sea temperatures, but can avoid the summer holiday crowds.
Holiday costs on the mainland can be much cheaper. A sunbed at a beach club can cost around €45 (£38.50) in Lloret, compared to the €60 or more (£51) charged by many Ibiza clubs. A three-course meal for two can be found at around €50 (£42), while beers come in at €3 on average, about £2.56, meaning your budget can stretch further.
But the seaside resort isn’t just focused on clubbing, visitors can walk the Camí de Ronda, a coastal path that links hidden coves with pine forests, and offers stunning views across the sea. On a clifftop, you’ll also find the Santa Clotilde Gardens, a beautiful spot with Renaissance-inspired designs. You can also climb the fortress of Castell de Sant Joan and enjoy coastal views from the top.
Tossa de Mar is also just a short bus ride away, a medieval city surrounded by 12th-century walls with cobbled streets, a lighthouse, and stylish seafood restaurants along the water, perfect for those warm summer evenings.
Lloret de Mar does not have its own airport. The closest option is Girona–Costa Brava Airport, located 30 km away. The larger Barcelona-El Prat Airport is 90 km away and offers more flight choices. Both Ryanair and easyJet fly direct from Liverpool John Lennon to Barcelona.
Taylor Marshall, a product executive at Sundeals, said: “One place I always recommend is Gammarus Beach Club. It has an incredible setting above the coastline and is the perfect place to spend an afternoon before staying through to sunset cocktails.
“For dinner, Restaurant Sant Elm is always one of my top recommendations. Sitting right on the seafront, it’s a brilliant place to try authentic Catalan dishes like suquet de peix from just €14.50 while watching the boats come into the harbour.
“I’d also recommend setting aside time to walk part of the Camí de Ronda to Sa Boadella Beach. It’s one of the best ways to discover the Costa Brava’s rugged coastline and hidden coves, and it’s a side of Lloret that still surprises many first-time visitors.”
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