WHEN SPRING HAS SPRUNG

Emerging into spring after the perils of a British winter feels like conquering an annual mountain climb. It’s an ascent that always seems more trying, colder and so much longer than you remembered it being last year, but the thought that gets many people through is the promise of a spring holiday.

There’s a school of thought that says spring is the best time for a trip in either the UK or Europe. Fewer people than summer, better weather than winter (and potentially summer, depending on what you’re planning) and often lower prices than other popular periods are the three key benefits, becoming more appealing when you tick off all three at once.

As for where to go, it’s a good time to visit some of the big-hitting destinations that aren’t as appealing in summer or winter, for the reasons above. And when you factor in less queueing time for attractions and more comfortable conditions for any outdoor activities, that longlist of options suddenly starts to look a lot longer.

To narrow down the choices, or at least provide a springboard for other ideas, here are a few of our picks for booking a springtime getaway. We’ve selected two from the UK if you’re leaning more towards a staycation, plus two European choices that supply some unexpected spring highlights.

CONWY, WALES

There are countless parts of Wales that shine in springtime, so picking one is painfully difficult. This is partly why we’ve selected a region – the borough of Conwy, rather than just the town of Conwy, lovely as the town is – allowing us to cram in more spring sights.

Bodnant Garden is a definite highlight, but to fully appreciate this 80-acre site you’ll need multiple visits, to observe different species blooming over the season. You’ll spot carpets of yellow daffodils in early spring, followed by bluebells and magnolias, before several of Bodnant’s prized specimens appear in late spring, including some of its many rhododendron varieties and the golden drapes of the famous Laburnum Arch.

Soak up the landscape of the wider region by settling in for a seriously scenic train journey on the Conwy Valley Line, passing meadows, mountains and pretty villages as you trace one of Wales’s longest rivers, the River Conwy.

Both Conwy town and Llandudno are popular seaside spots with lots to offer visitors of all ages – seek out the longest pier in Wales, and Britain’s longest cable car in Llandudno.

THE LAKE DISTRICT

England’s largest National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to England’s highest mountain…The Lake District is impressive before you even arrive. But make that arrival in spring and you’re in for something even more special. Firstly, you can uncover a floral masterclass, courtesy of Mother Nature, with daffodils, bluebells and timely blossoms (crab apple, blackthorn, cherry) all making themselves known.

Spring is also a fine time to beat the summer crowds that flock to this hugely popular region, meaning you’ll get to see the Lake District in a calmer and fuller way. Plus, the weather will – in theory – be at something like optimum temperature for outdoor activities, with less chance of plan-destroying rain.

So, whereabouts in this huge region should you be visiting to take advantage of it all? Windermere is a favourite and home to England’s largest lake, with the town of Bowness-on Windermere welcoming many visitors. Nearby Ambleside is postcard-pretty and a little quieter, while those wanting to further embrace outdoor options should try the village of Grasmere (great for a hiking base) or accommodation scattered around the idyllic Ullswater lake – a ‘waterfall walk’ out to nearby Aira Force is highly recommended.

CORFU, GREECE

All of the Greek islands have their own distinct draws, and one of Corfu’s is its abundance of luscious vegetation, earning it a reputation as Greece’s greenest island and its ‘Emerald Isle’ nickname. Unsurprisingly, all that flora is at its most verdant during spring.

But alongside the natural riches, is an impressive roster of historical and cultural treasures. Set on a peaceful hilltop, beautiful, Paleokastritsa Monastery is quick to win over visitors and offers far-reaching views from its high-altitude perch, or there’s the Museum of Asian Art (said to be Greece’s only museum dedicated to art and antiques from Asia), housing artefacts ranging from Samurai armour to ancient Chinese sculptures.

And let’s not forget the beaches, because there are some truly epic ones across the island, covering remote coves that you can sometimes enjoy all by yourself and grander, golden- sanded stretches that buzz with life. Spring is also when the Ionian waters start to warm up, and swimming should be feasible from late May or early June.

MUNICH, GERMANY

Germany’s third-largest city and capital of Bavaria may be known for its October festivities, when the world’s largest beer festival – Oktoberfest – takes place, but visiting in spring offers arguably much more – and there’s even a taster of Oktoberfest on offer.

If that appeals, book your trip between 17 April and 10 May when Frühlingsfest (Spring Festival) takes place.

Known as ‘the little sister of Oktoberfest’, Frühlingsfest features the same draws as its big sibling – parades, beer tents, brass bands playing oompah tunes, fairground rides – but with far fewer crowds. There’s still a fun vibe and welcoming atmosphere for all, including families.

For a more tranquil activity, Munich is also a popular place to view one of Germany’s spring treats: cherry blossoms. Olympiapark,

Westpark and the English Garden are prime viewing spots. Fuel up for the day or wind down with a post-sightseeing drink at Viktualienmarkt, where around 100 stalls sell international dishes and Bavarian flavours – including a few in ice cream form (such as currywurst and beer), courtesy of ice cream experimentalist Matthias Münz.