For those short on time but who fancy getting some sand between their toes, leading operator, Cresta Holidays, has come up with some ideas for short breaks to beach destinations.

The west coast of Ireland has more than its fair share of Blue Flag beaches and, with Aer Arran�s new daily flights to Galway from Luton and Manchester, the area is much more accessible for a short break.

For example, a three-night weekend stay at the four-star superior Connemara Coast Hotel in Co. Galway is from �316 between 21 July and 31 August from Luton or �368 from Manchester, with car hire from �65 per car for the duration of the stay.

In France, there�s plenty of golden sand on offer at La Baule in Brittany and here Cresta is highlighting breaks to the four-star Hotel Hermitage Barriere which is set right on the nine km beach. A four-night stay with breakfast in July costs from �400 inclusive of return Portsmouth/Cherbourg superstar express (crossing time under three hours) for car and passengers.

All prices are per person (twin share) and include accommodation with breakfast.

Cresta Holidays: 0870 33 33 303, www.crestaholidays.co.uk

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For more press information contact Anne Hampson at Cresta on 0161 385 4100 (private line)