Italians are snubbing the beaches in droves this year, with as much as a 25 per cent drop in visitors along some coastlines.

For decades, Italian families up and down the boot have followed the same summer routine.  They book their sun loungers and umbrellas at their regular beach destination for weeks, or even months, and decamp to the seaside for the holidays.

This year, however, companies based on the beach are reporting a drastic drop in visitors, especially those who stay for extended periods.

Political factions are blaming price hikes at the coast for the lack of holidaymakers, but heatwaves and a changing climate are also key drivers.

In sharp contrast to the crisis in beach tourism, there has been a boom in visitors heading to the country’s mountain destinations.

While it’s true that a break in the mountains on average costs less than at the beach, experts suggest it’s more to do with the climatic changes pummelling the continent. (Euronews)