Holidays in March

Flung far into the Atlantic, the Portuguese islands of the Azores enjoy balmy temperatures and kind weather year-round. In March, spring is already underway, the crowds have not yet gathered and sun shines over the blossoming hydrangeas. Perfect for walking and island-hopping, this volcanic archipelago boasts astounding scenery and pristine, dramatic landscapes formed by tectonic activity and each island has its own individual character worthy of being explored.

Norway is a real-life utopia for any lover of the great outdoors. Dotted off the edge of Norway's north west coast, the stunning Vesteralen and Lofoten archipelagos are one of the best-kept secrets in the Arctic region. Travellers keen to immerse themselves in staggeringly beautiful scenery and enjoy a lifestyle that puts the emphasis on connecting with nature need look no further - here near-vertical mountains erupt from deep fjords and glassy waters reflect the northern lights. Kept warm by the gulf stream, rare winter fly-drives are possible in March.

Finland’s northernmost province of Lapland is an Arctic playground where the resident reindeers outnumber the people. Family memories are made here - staying in a glass igloo, mushing through the snow on a traditional dog sled or dashing through the glittering landscape on a snowmobile safari. With a winter that lasts around 200 days, the northern lights can be seen painting ribbons of colour across the sky from late August until mid-April. Lapland is cheaper and less crowded in March, but the lights are still visible and snow still coats the ground.