In the dreary days of winter, it’s the most natural thing to dream of inspiring beach destinations where you could travel. With rolling waves onto golden sands framed by towering cliffs cloaked in lush vegetation, it’s easy to see in your mind’s eye what paradise looks like. If you’re keen for small group travel to a stunning coastal destination, we can recommend a few beaches that will truly take your breath away.

Low in fat and high in vegetable oils, the Mediterranean diet is famed for its health benefits and delicious, fresh flavours. It is reported that those who follow this lifestyle live a longer, healthier life, with areas such as the island of Ikaria in Greece named a “Blue Zone,” fascinating scientists with its exceptionally healthy residents.

Photographer Alex Treadway, whose work has been featured in National Geographic and other prominent publications, travels around the world to capture images for our Luxury Gold magazine. We caught up with him to find out more about his journeys and what inspires him.