A Spanish hotspot just 2 hours from the UK has striking pink water and unique natural landscapes

Sarra Gray
Mon, 27 Apr 2026 10:17:28 +0000

Britons dreaming of Red Sea-style snorkelling and exotic landscapes may not need to travel as far as they think, with one Spanish destination emerging as a hidden short-haul alternative.

Travel experts have highlighted Costa Blanca as a rising hotspot for 2026, offering crystal-clear waters, flamingos and even a naturally pink lake - all just over two hours from the UK.

The shift comes as holidaymakers look for closer, more convenient options amid ongoing disruption in traditionally popular long-haul destinations. Search trends reflect this change in behaviour, with interest in Spain rising by 28 per cent year-on-year, while demand for Egypt has fallen by around 12 per cent.

According to experts at First Choice, Costa Blanca is an exciting option for families looking for unique experiences without lengthy flights.

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Managing director of First Choice, Kevin Nelson, said: “Travellers still want those extraordinary moments. Unsuspectingly, Costa Blanca delivers that, with unique landscapes and natural highlights all within just a couple of hours from the UK.”

One of the region’s standout attractions is Laguna Rosa, located near Torrevieja. This rare natural phenomenon is one of Europe’s only pink lakes, its striking colour caused by microorganisms in the water.

With shallow waters and flocks of flamingos seen wading through the lake, the setting is often compared to far-flung destinations such as North Africa’s salt lakes. The surreal colours and wildlife make it a huge draw for visitors looking for something beyond the typical beach holiday.

Just off the coast lies another unexpected highlight, Tabarca Island. This is a small, car-free island that has a protected marine reserve around an hour by boat from Alicante.

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Here, clear waters, calm coves and thriving marine offer top snorkelling conditions, often likened to the Red Sea. Visitors can explore a village of whitewashed houses and historic walls, before following coastal paths to a lighthouse and quieter coves.

The island is also known for its food scene. Local restaurants serve traditional dishes such as caldero, a rich fish stew made with fresh catch and rice, alongside seafood favourites like grilled squid and fideuà, a noodle-based alternative to paella.

Back on the mainland, Costa Blanca offers more than just beaches. The nearby Palmeral of Elche — a UNESCO-listed site — is home to over 200,000 palm trees, creating a landscape that feels closer to North Africa than mainland Europe.

For families, the region has plenty to offer. Resorts such as Albir Garden Resort provide quieter, all-inclusive bases within easy reach of these attractions, according to First Choice experts.

Many of the area’s highlights are all within an hour’s travel, making them ideal for day trips.

With UK holidaymakers expected to take 55 per cent more trips to lesser-known destinations, Costa Blanca’s blend of natural beauty and accessibility is proving increasingly attractive.

For British holidaymakers hoping for something a little different this summer, Costa Blanca shows that an “exotic” escape might be closer to home than expected.