Spring has sprung, the blossom is cascading down the streets and there are bank holidays galore, meaning only one thing: Easter egg season is finally upon us. If you have managed to stick to not eating any chocolate over lent, then bravo! We tried our very hardest here at BIRD but to no avail. Whether you’ve resisted temptation or given into those cravings, everyone deserves a treat at Easter time, so we’ve rounded up our favourite alternative Easter breaks for you to feast your eyes on…
Portugal
Ever dreamt of picnicking in the orange-hued Portuguese countryside with a glass of local wine? Well now you can with a traditional Alentejan Easter picnic in the grounds of 19th century farmstead hotel, winery and spa, São Lourenço do Barrocal. Gather your loved ones and take in the unrivalled views of Portugal’s unspoilt Alentejo region, sprinkled with wildflowers (an Easter bunnies dream) and dotted with olive trees. Sip on wine created in the region’s granite and schist rich soil which produces an elegant and powerful grape. Relax on colourful blankets in the dappled sunshine and indulge in the hotel’s farm-to-table produce, including a lamb roast and vegetables from the garden. For dessert, enjoy the treats collected from the Easter egg hunt.
Ecuador
We all know that wondrous moment at Easter when we can gloriously tuck into our plethora of chocolate treats – however, if you want to get a true taste of Easter, you’ll have to make the trip to the luxury, boutique hotel Casa Gangotena, located in the heart of Quito Old Town. Ambles through the charming cobbled streets will guide you to the irresistible scent and taste of native chocolate brand, To’ak. Get your hands mucky and learn how to make your very own chocolate, adding in your flavour of choice, such as mint, passionfruit and fiery chili for the brave amongst us. After a few painful minutes waiting for the chocolate to set, you can taste your very own creation. Back at the hotel, treat yourself to a selection of delectable chocolate desserts. A choco lovers heaven!
Spain
During the Easter Holidays, children should all embrace the opportunity to relax, play and explore new surroundings. At the Marbella Club, Andalusia’s most iconic beach resort, the wonderful team at the Kid’s Club have created a jam-packed itinerary for little ones to join, full of exciting Easter-themed activities running for 3 weeks. Whilst parents enjoy some well-deserved rest in this small slice of paradise, your children will become little explorers and learn all about nature. Unearthing carrots from the mini-garden and searching for hidden chocolate treats in the grounds – quite frankly we want to join in with these activities too!
Suffolk
Fancy something a bit closer to home? Then venture to the Suffolk coast for a quintessentially British seaside get-away. The Swan, Southwold, offers a ‘casual luxury’ retreat that is just perfect for a Bank Holiday – think restorative walks along the coast and ice cream on the beach. What makes The Swan even more spectacular is that it is owned and run by the world-famous brewery and distillery, Adnams. Over 600 years of brewing history means that The Swan is steeped in beer – not literally! – but you’ll find references to brewing and distilling throughout the hotel. You can enjoy a tour of their brewery and distillery or have a go at making your very own bottle of gin to take home with you. If eating gin is more your thing then why not try their gin infused choc – careful the Easter bunny doesn’t get his paws on it!
