If you were to ask a British holidaymaker to name destinations on the Costa Brava or the Balearic Islands, the names Palma, Magaluf and Blanes would likely be near the top of the list.
But the answers might be very different if you were to ask a local.
Writing for The Times, Monique Rivalland recommends following the example of Spanish domestic tourists and heading off the beaten track this summer. You might find a more authentic experience in the likes of Deià on Majorca or Begur on the Costa Brava.
A caveat to bear in mind is that, in the case of more remote locations, the public transport infrastructure will be less advanced than that at the big resorts. Hiring a car or staying in a coastal town with everything within walking distance may be the better options.
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Costa Brava
Resort hotels jostle for space along the vast sandy beaches of Lloret de Mar or Tossa de Mar, which are popular among British tourists. Spanish holidaymakers, meanwhile, tend to head away from the buzz to the likes of Begur or Palamós instead.
The coastal town of Begur is noted for the medieval castle that lies at its heart. Cobbled streets and whitewashed houses set the scene for a peaceful break. The nearby cove of Sa Tuna is a must-go if you are in the area.
A short drive southwards will take you to Palamós . It is one of the best-preserved traditional Catalan fishing villages on the Costa Brava. Rivalland says the village is known as a "culinary destination", with top restaurants including La Taverna de L'iberic and Entre Dos Mons.
Majorca
The small coastal village of Deià can be found north of Palma. Hailed as one of Majorca's most picturesque spots, its authentic Spanish charm and stunning views of the Mediterranean have provided inspiration for a number of famous writers and artists over the years, including Robert Graves. It is also home to Ca's Patro March, a rustic restaurant that you might recognise if you have watched The Night Manager.
Rivalland says the beach at Es Trenc is another go-to destination for those in the know. The two-kilometre stretch of bright white sand is located on the south of the island and its blue waters are said to resemble those of the Caribbean.
Puerto Pollensa , also known as Port de Pollensa, is another top spot for Spanish holidaymakers. Over the years it has evolved from a small fishing port into a family-friendly resort. Agatha Christie was inspired by the destination to write her short story, Problems at Pollensa Bay.
Formentera
Ibiza's quieter neighbour, Formentera, could be the ideal place for a peaceful break. Es Calo de Sant Agusti is a particular favourite of those seeking a traditional fishing village. Its wooden boathouses were declared a site of cultural interest in the early 2000s.
Five kilometres of paradisiacal beaches can be found at Migjorn . The south coast stretch includes the popular Ca Marí, Es Arenals and Es Copinar, offering sandy beaches perfect for bathing.
