Tuesday, September 21, 2010

New Hampshire Things to Do

Skiing & SnowboardingSkiing is the official state sport of New Hampshire, with snowboarding and other winter sports close behind. The northern third of the state is locally known as the “north country” and hosts a lot of winter skiing and snowboarding resorts and events, as well as snowmobile trails and, on the state's numerous lakes, ice fishing houses nicknamed “bobhouses”. There's something for skiers of all levels of ability, with six different mountains to choose from – Loon, Bretton Woods, Cannon, Cranmore, Waterville Valley and Wildcat Mountain – offering hundreds of pistes between them alongside thoroughly modern lift networks and ski schools. For the truly adventurous, there are countless opportunities for cross-country skiing, as well as ice climbing, snowshoeing and night tubing. Hiking, Mountaineering & Motorsports Hiking and mountaineering are popular outdoor pastimes in New Hampshire thanks to the warm summers the state enjoys. The White Mountains offer a great variety of trails designed to maximise enjoyment of the region's resplendent natural beauty, and make this area ideal for a walking holiday. There are also numerous mountain biking opportunities, with lifts available for the excessively steep stretches. Motorsports are also popular in New Hampshire with June seeing a motorcycle rally held in Weirs Beach, and the New Hampshire Motor Speedway hosting a variety of events including NASCAR and IndyCar championship competitions. Landmarks & CultureNo trip to New Hampshire is complete without a trip to the iconic and awe-inspiring Mount Washington, a 6288-foot peak from which it's possible to see all the way to the Atlantic and into Canada. The buildings at the peak – including an observatory, museum and viewing platform – are actually held down with chains, with older constructions having blown away over the years. A coal-fired steam train runs all the way up the mountain on a track constructed in 1869. In the past New Hampshire has played host and provided inspiration to artists such as the famous writer Henry David Thoreau and poet Robert Frost; the latter is celebrated by several sites including several farm homesteads on which he lived.Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendExtrasCar hire

Stowe Things to Do

SkiingMount Mansfield, the tallest of the Green Mountains and indeed the highest peak in Vermont, offers slopes suitable for skiers from intermediate to expert. Other slopes such as Spruce Peak are more appropriate for beginners and those lacking confidence. Each slope offers several trails so there's plenty of variety while on ski holidays in Stowe. Gondoliers service all of the main slopes (some of these impressive lifts are over a mile long) and the Mansfield summit experiences an annual 333 inches of snow. Skiers and snowboarders won't be disappointed by what Stowe has to offer. Hiking, Biking & ClimbingThere are numerous hiking facilities around Mt. Mansfield and the Smuggler’s Notch State Park, all of which are operated by the local Green Mountain Club. There is also a 5-mile long recreation trail, the Stowe Recreation Path, which was completed at the end of the 1980s and has received assorted awards and honours for its addition to the town. Areas of natural beauty in the surrounding area are conserved, including the stunning Wiessner Woods, and elsewhere there are plenty of picaresque sights including the waterfalls Moss Glen Falls and Bingham Falls, making this an ideal destination for a walking holiday. Mountain biking is also a popular pastime outside the winter months. As well as the many public trails there are also private trails at the Trapp Family Lodge (a commercial lodge set up by Austrian immigrants in the 1950s). Rock climb and ice climbing are also popular at various points of the year. Outdoor ActivitiesAs well as skiing, hiking and other pursuits, the resorts in Stowe offer a huge spa and wellness centre, an 18-hole golf course, tennis, fishing as well as numerous swimming holes around the area – some fed by waterfalls. Summer holidays and autumn holidays can be a wonderfully relaxing experience – after a morning exploring mountain trails why not stroll along the Stowe Recreational Path and soak in the sights the town has to offer? Cultural EventsThe previously mentioned Trapp Family Lodge regularly hosts the Vermont Mozart Festival in the summer, with fireworks concluding the festivities. As well as such spectacular annual events the village is home to a thriving arts community. Several museums, art galleries and performance spaces can be found around the town, and the local shops offer a variety of local art, jewellery and craft goods, whilst Vermont cuisine is on offer throughout the town's restaurants.Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendExtrasCar hire

Porto Cervo Things to Do

Boating and Yachting Porto Cervo is among the most famous destinations for yachting experts and enthusiasts seeking a yachting holiday. During the summer, events and races are put on by the town as part of the annual regatta, with the hundreds of yachts moored around the marina or entering and departing the port an impressive sight to behold. Whether you wish to visit to watch the races, stroll around the marina and admire the yachts and villas, or rub shoulders with celebrities, this is the perfect time to visit Porto Cervo and soak in its rich ambiance. Beaches For those who enjoy the simple pleasures of sunbathing, swimming, scuba diving and other beach based pursuits, Porto Cervo offers a variety of rental services to enhance your beach holiday. With its electric-hued sea and fine white sand, the town displays a natural beauty alongside that of its sophistication and wealth; attractive inlets and small beaches are scattered along the coast. Great opportunities for windsurfers are also presented, with lovers of the sport visiting from all over Europe. Nearby Porto Pollo is particularly popular among windsurfers and is often the scene of international surfing events. DiningThe trend in Porto Cervo is towards high-class cuisine and away from traditional fare, although seafood and pasta are of course widespread. At the higher-end restaurants dishes like suckling pig, sea bass, octopus terrine and Carpaccio of tuna, salmon and sea bass are among the menu items available. Since you're likely to be paying a lot wherever you eat, be a discriminating customer and select the establishment which looks as though it really delivers the quality it charges for. NightlifeThe nightlife of Porto Cervo is among one of its most notable attractions, and is what sets it apart from other, similarly beautiful seaside destinations. Among its most exclusive venues is Billionaire, which as you'd expect from its swaggering name is thoroughly expensive and decadent. Attendees have included Hollywood actors, Formula 1 moguls, Italian footballers and TV stars, internationally renowned musicians and more. Elsewhere, more laid-back venues with mixed crowds and less exclusive policies are available, including regular bars and discos as well as outdoor clubs along the seafront which begin just after sunset and continue well into the night.Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendExtrasCar hire

Monday, September 20, 2010

Sao Jorge Island Things To Do

Incredible Scenic HolidaysOne of the three 'Triangle' islands in the Azorean archipelago of Portugal, Sao Jorge is a long and thin island best known for its gorgeous scenery. Human habitation is mostly confined to the coastal areas, with the central areas of the island made up of tall cliffs and a line of volcanic cones stretching hundreds of metres above sea level. There is some variation around the island; the terrain is smoother on the east than the west, and the same is true of the southern and northern coasts. Assorted fajas, some the product of lava flows and others the result of collapsed cliffs, are scattered around the coasts of the island, with some of the larger specimens hosting settlements, villages and cultivated land. SightseeingSao Jorge Island boasts stunning scenery: the colourful hues of wild flowers, hollowed-out lava arches which form natural bridges, deep ravines which vanish into the sea, odd geological grottoes inhabited by wild pigeons, and streams that burst into waterfalls are just some of the sights to be enjoyed. The central peaks of the island are particularly impressive, especially the volcanic cones of which the largest, known as Pico de Esperanca, reaches an altitude of over 1,000m. Bird-watching & FishingSao Jorge, thanks to its numerous peaceful and secluded areas, is a popular destination for bird-watchers. Species such as buzzards, peregrines, heron and plover are known to root and hunt around the island. Sports fishermen and line divers will also be impressed at the diverse and colourful species of sealife that populates the island's waters. FestivalsSao Jorge holds a series of festivals throughout the year, most tied into the island's Catholic make-up and history. One such series of celebrations is the Espirito Santo, which occur every Sunday before Easter, culminating on the seventh Sunday. While there are processions to churches the festivals also involve the granting of alms for the poor and gatherings for dancing and conversation. Feasting, fireworks and “bullfighting on a rope” are also often features of festivals and celebrations on Sao Jorge. Scuba Diving The variety on offer to divers while on a diving holiday in Sao Jorge is almost awe-inspiring. With sandy, rocky and mixed seabeds, numerous caves and shipwrecks, the clear blue waters of the Portuguese coast and the diverse species found in the area, it's likely that every dive will offer its own unique sights and experiences – even to experienced divers.Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendExtrasCar hire

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Walchsee Things To Do

Swimming and BathingThe lake is the main feature of a Walchsee holiday, with swimming permitted in the warm blue waters, which often reach 24C in the height of the summer season, and a number of convenient platforms and flat banks along the shores. Water SportsLake Walchsee has facilities for windsurfing, water skiing, sailing and fishing, and visitors can rent boats on the lake, with pedalos, electric boats and rowboats available. The range of activities available makes Walchsee an ideal destination for an active lake holiday.  Hiking The green countryside around Walchsee and its lake is ideal for exploring on foot, with itineraries suitable for all levels of walker and hiker. Choose from gentle paths and trails around the lake to challenging treks high up in the mountains. Walchsee is renowned throughout Austria for its dramatic mountains and lakes scenery, and is the perfect area for a walking holiday.     CyclingExcellent terrain for cyclists, with the network of paths and trails offering scenic rides against the stunning mountain backdrop, and a number of organised routes to follow. SportsThe town has a health club with indoor pool, as well as facilities for tennis, golf, mini-golf, bowling and horse riding. TobogganingThe Zahmer Kaiser tobogganing track is open during the summer and offers the chance for an exhilarating descent from the mountains. Day tripsTour the neighbouring Alpine towns and villages, head to the Krimmi Waterfalls, explore Hohe National Park, or take a take a trip to the cities of Innsbruck or Salzburg.Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendExtrasCar hire

Seefeld Things To Do

HikingWalking and hiking are both major attractions for visitors to Seefeld, and the mountains boast a host of varied trails and paths for both gentle adventurer and seasoned hiker, accessed by the lifts or railway. BikingExcellent terrain for biking too, with plenty of routes and itineraries for avid cyclists as well as beginners. Bikes can be rented in the resort, and there are guided rides and tours of the area. GolfGolf is a major attraction as there are two courses in Seefeld, both with 18-holes, with players able to enjoy the game in the crisp mountain air, and in a beautiful Alpine setting. Seefeld would therefore make an excellent location for a golf holiday.  SportsActive visitors can enjoy swimming at the leisure centre or the Olympia Sports Centre, as well as tennis, mini-golf, squash, bowling, horse riding, paragliding, archery and Nordic walking. Wildsee Lake offers swimming and boat rental, and white water rafting is available for the adventurous. In the winter Seefeld is a particularly popular Austrian skiing destination, and has hosted events in the Winter Olympics as well as the Nordic World Ski Championships.  EntertainmentSeefeld offers buggy rides around the town, there are traditional Austrian cafes, coffee shops and bars to visit, and a range of restaurants. There is also a casino in town, and regular Tyrolean evenings and folk nights. InnsbruckInnsbruck is just 30 minutes away and an interesting day trip by train, with its historic centre full of cobbled streets and traditional Austrian coffee shops and cafes. Sights and attractions include the Botanical Gardens, Hofburg Palace, Swarovski Crystal World and Neuschwanstein Castle.Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendExtrasCar hire

Monday, September 6, 2010

St Wolfberg Things to do

Cycle & HikeSt Wolfsberg is surrounded by beautiful scenery, what better way to explore the natural wonders of this region than by bicycle or on foot. There are 500km of cycle routes in the region and many well marked walking trails. Bicycles are easy to rent and many guided cycle tours are on offer. You can also choose to take a guided walking tour, a great way to learn a little more about the natural flora and fauna surrounding you. Winter ActivitiesThe region of St Wolfsberg is home to the Lavant Valley, where you will find the ski slopes of Koralpe and Klippitztörl. These are well maintained slopes with an abundance of facilities. Good snow conditions are experienced here and they have an operating lift system. Cross country skiing is another popular winter activity with many trails to choose from. Both indoor and outdoor ice-skating can be found in St Wolfsberg, along with other winter holiday activities such as curling and sledging. Summer ActivitiesWith incredible warm days in the summer months, there are many different ways to spend your warm days, keeping you and the kids entertained. Swim in the open-air pool, try your hand at archery or visit the courts for a game of tennis, squash or badminton.   Adventure ActivitiesNot for the faint hearted, St Wolfsberg boasts an array of outdoor adventure activities. Hand gliding, paragliding and parachuting are available in the region, all amazing ways to take in the natural beauty of St Wolfsberg from the sky! Dining & DrinkingSt Wolfsberg provides many different options for dining and drinking whilst holidaying in the Austrian state of Carinthia. With an abundance of restaurants, cafes and bars to choose from, many with outdoor seating, there is something to satisfy every palate whilst you relax on your holiday in St Wolfsberg. Many of the restaurants and bars are open very late in the summer and winter months, giving you time to unwind from your day before heading out for the evening.Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendExtrasCar hire

Saturday, September 4, 2010

SouthTyrol Things to do

Lakes & Mountains
If you like lakes and mountains holidays then you will love South Tyrol, with a wide variety of activities and attractions on offer, some of the best Italian holidays. From theme parks to real castles, ski schools to X-treme adventure sports, South Tyrol holidays are a great way to unwind from your everyday life.  Messner Mountain MuseumLocated near Bolzano, the Messner Mountain Museum (MMM) is regarded by many as the top attraction if you are on holiday in South Tyrol. It is a unique and bizarre museum situated in Schloss Sigmundskron. There are pictures, paintings, artefacts and sculptures regarding the impact that mountains have made to many people’s lives. Also there are many exhibitions about the history and art of climbing mountains. The Salto / SaltenThe Salten is a beautifully easy Hiking area with a number of routes through plains and meadows. If you have come for mountains holidays or want to take a relaxed look at some of the most beautiful   mountains in Italy then it makes and ideal place to do so. Found extending from San Genesio to Verano, about 1000 Mt and 10km from Bozen on a high Plateau. It passes through Meltina dall'altopiano giving panoramic views of the picturesque mountains that surround the South Tyrol region including the Latemar, Schlern and Catinaccio Dolomite groups. Scola de Schi DolomitesSouth Tyrol has some of the best ski holidays in Italy. Scola de Schi Dolomites found both in la Villa and Armentarola is widely regarded as the best ski school in the area, a place where the staff are truly passionate about the sport, and offer tailor-made skiing excursions including snowboarding, skiing, night skiing, guided excursions and even helicopter skiing. Extreme Adventure SportsIf you enjoy the thrill of an adrenaline rush then look no further than Adrenalin X-treme Adventures situated in San Vigilio di Marebbe. Here you can take a thrilling Zip-line flight with the most stunning of backdrops. Whizzing through the air along a 3km route with a drop of up to 400 metres this is a truly unforgettable experience that will have your heart racing!Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendSouthTyrol holiday resortsMerano
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Merano Things to do

Lakes & Mountains
Merano is a destination that has for some time held its popularity with tourists. Known as “where north meets south” or “the Mediterranean city in the Alps". In the summer months visitors to its wonderful promenade can enjoy concerts on most days. In the surrounding hills and through the town's beautiful streets one can enjoy fine walking and hiking, and in the winter months fantastic skiing including the “Meran 2000”. Merano is a well-known wine making area and the town also houses a brewery that makes a variety of beers available through most of northern Italy. Castle TrauttmansdorffThe Castle is a natural amphitheatre housing more than 80 botanical environments with species of plants from all over the world. The castle too is formidable and has in the past been nominated for the European Museum Awards, with previous exhibitions including “Perfumes divine and the smell from hell!”.Merano Thermal BathsThere are indoor and outdoor pools available at the wonderful Merano Thermal Baths, with both chlorine and salt waters, an outdoor and truly stunning environment. There is also a unisex, nude sauna area. The centre is a great place for the whole family and recommended highly. ParksRunning through Merano, with a beautiful promenade next to it is the Passirio/Passer River and in the centre there are all sorts of parks, promenades and gardens. The place is so beautiful and charming, and is looked after very well. There are many trees and flowers and this adds to the city a great deal of colour and charm. PromenadesWhether you are on a luxury break or a cheap holiday you are sure to enjoy the beautiful Promenades on a holiday in Merano. If you go over the Passirio/Passer River via the Postbrucke, one is able to see to the left the Summerpromenade and to the right the Winterpromenade. The Summerpromenade is in the centre of evergreen flora, enormous trees, bushes, many different species of flowers and pines. It was made in memory of Marie Valerie, daughter of Empress Elizabeth and Emperor Franz Joseph. The Winterpromenade has a roof so visitors can relax and enjoy its typically South-Tyrol artwork whatever the weather. It was constructed in 1624.Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendSouthTyrol Merano
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Pescasseroli Things to do

Lakes & Mountains
Plenty to do in Pescasseroli, with something for everyone, here is the list of the top five recommended things to do whilst visiting the area, this is an area of outstanding natural beauty and areas of special interest. Whether you have come on a lake holiday to see the great Italian lakes or mountain holidays to see some of the finest mountains in Italy this area has it all.

Pescasseroli Castle In one afternoon you can easily make the journey to this castle. Just follow the green nature trail pointers as you head from the town into the wonderful local nature. This is a well-used route so you shouldn't have too much trouble finding the beautiful castle ruins that offer the most stunning views of the town below. Carmel Church
You'll need a map to find this very old church as it is hidden away in the old town, this you can find at the start of the road of the Churches. It is in the Baroque style, founded in 1729 it contains a Carmel virgin; a sculpture that is taken on parades through the town on the 15th of July and 16th of July which are festival days.

Town Museum & Zoo
Pescasseroli is the national park’s headquarters and because of this it has a small zoo and animal sanctuary and a small museum with animal species including the Brown Bear.

The Old Town
Near Spira Place is the old town, a maze of thin old cobbled streets, old houses made from the beautiful local stones and winding alleyways filled with interest, such as the beautiful architecture of the house in Valle del Fiume, where the two outside stairs have over them two arches supported by one column. 

Piazza Antonio
Piazza S Antonio is to be found in the centre of the main town of Pescasseroli, just by the town hall. If you want to see where the locals like to kick back and relax then this is the place to come. There is a fountain where locals like to gather and also cafés where you can try the local gastronomy.

Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendThe Apennine Mountains Pescasseroli
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Alpujarras

Holidays – Jewel of the Sierra NevadaThe region is located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in southern Spain. An area of lush green valleys, terraced fields of lemons and almonds and steep ridges and mountains, the is perfect for your next mountain holiday. The region stretches from the province of Granada in the west to Almeria in the east, and is home to continental Spain’s highest mountain, Mulhacen. The closest airport to the is Federico Garcia Lorca in Granada, a mere 45 minute drive from the spa town of Lanjaron. Holidays in - Explore the villages of the The are famous as the last refuge of the Moors after the re-conquest of Granada by the Catholic king. Their legacy remains in the architecture of the villages and houses more reminiscent of the Rif or Atlas mountains in Morocco. There are around fifty villages to visit around the and some of the more notable include Trevelez, which is officially the highest town in Spain and the home of the famous cured Trevelez ham. The stunning village of Bubion has some of the best views the have to offer with Mulhacen on one side and the Mediterranean to the other. On a clear day you may be lucky enough to enjoy a clear vista of the Rif Mountains particularly on a cool crisp autumn evening. The village of Orgiva is the centre of the western and has become rather a haven for those seeking an alternative lifestyle. Hippies and local farmers live side by side in an eclectic mix of lifestyles. With so much to discover in the you will never be short of something to do during your next mountain holiday.  Holidays – Activities in the For the thrill seeker in you, the area is home to some exceptional trails for mountain biking and trekking, with a number of companies offering various guided tours of the area. Bird and animal watching are also very popular with the area home to a number of exciting species. During the winter, of course, the area becomes the home of skiing and snowboarding so whatever time of year you choose to visit on your next mountain holiday there will always be something to keep you busy in the .

Friday, September 3, 2010

Andalusia

Holidays – Unknown The autonomous community of lies in the far south of Spain and is a perfect destination for your next lakes and mountains holiday. is of course more famous for the beaches of the Costa del Sol, however if one ventures a little further north from the beaten track you will discover a land of culture, of tradition and of tranquillity that most never knew existed. The airports best situated for lakes and mountains holidays are those of Malaga for the province’s Lake District, and Federico Garcia Lorca airport in Granada for the Sierra Nevada region.  Holidays in – Discover Spain’s own lake district A perfect place for your next lakes and mountains holiday, Spain’s Lake District is relatively unknown in terms of tourism. Three man-made turquoise lakes are yours to be discovered, bordered by sleepy Spanish towns steeped in history. Although the area feels a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the Costa del Sol, in fact it is a mere one hour drive from Malaga airport, perfect for that romantic weekend getaway. Accommodation in the area varies from tranquil rural retreats to hotels and camping, meaning there is something for every budget and taste.  Holidays – Explore the Sierra NevadaThe stunning Moorish city of Granada is the gateway Sierra Nevada mountain range. A must-see area during your n mountain holiday, this is truly an area of outstanding natural beauty. Designated a national park, the area stretches from the provinces of Granada to Almeria and contains continental Spain’s highest mountain, Mulhacen. During the winter, the Sierra Nevada is home to the regions winter sports and the resorts support ski runs for every level of participant. Within the Sierra Nevada is a region known as the Alpujarras. This beautiful region consists of white-washed villages, sheltered valleys and green terraced fields. During the summer the area is perfect for hiking and mountain biking, or for simply discovering the culture of these high mountain villages which were the last refuges of Moorish Spain before the Reconquista of the Catholic kings. Take the time to discover the other side of and you’re sure to be pleasantly surprised on your next cheap holiday to Spain.

Salo Things to do

Lakes & MountainsThe charming town of Salò is situated in a thin bay just below Monte San Bartolomeo. Ideal for lakes holidays, Salò is right on the banks of Lake Garda. The violin was invented here by Gasparo da Salò. Also the town was where Italy's Fascist, Republic de Salò, government was seated from 1943. It is a small town with a population of around 10,000 with much fascinating architecture and beautiful scenery. The DuomoRegarded as one of the town's finest monuments is the Cathedral (the Duomo). It was built in the late Gothic style in 1943. It was a project of Filippo delle Vacche da Caravaggio, an architect, now dead, who lived in the town between 1452 and 1484. Though incomplete, it has a spectacular renaissance façade of saints and angels.             The Square of Victory (Piazza della Vittoria)Situated opposite the stately City Hall, the Piazza della Vittoria is found in middle of the town. As its centrepiece you can find a monument to the war which was made by Angelo Zanelli. If you are going on holidays in Italy then this town has some fine scenery and history, right next to one of the most famous lakes in Italy. Palazzo della Magnifica PatriaBuilt in the 1400s this lovely palace was the seat to the Magnifica Patria di Salò, The government of the Comunitò di Riviera. It housed the Interpreters office between 1943 and 1945 and now is the the Town Hall. There is a beautiful colonnade on the ground floor with various depictions of great Italian characters and on one side Venice's Lion is to be seen.  The PromenadeStretching over 1.5km, Salò has a magnificent promenade beside Lake Garda. It is the perfect spot to take a stroll and enjoy the view of the town from the lake. Here you can find some super bars and restaurants and even organise boat trips from Società Cannottieri Garda. Vittoriale degli ItalianiHeading towards Gargnano, north from Salò about 5km, in the tiny town Gardone Riviera, you will find Vittiriale degli Italian. This was the final house of Gabriele D'Annunzio, the politician, poet and general. He rebuilt it between 1921-1938. Here you can visit the poets house, the parks, the gardens, the library, the theatre and the war museum.Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendLake Garda Bardolino
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Garda
Gardone Riviera
Lazise
Limone
Maderno
Malcesine
Peschiera del Garda
Riva del Garda
Salo
Sirmione
Torri del Benaco
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Granada

Holidays – City of the AlhambraSet at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, is truly the jewel in the crown of Andalusia and a perfect starting point for mountain holidays. is served by Federico Garcia Lorca airport, which is a mere 15km from the city and has good rail and road links to the rest of Andalusia. One cannot mention without speaking about the Alhambra palace. This elegant Moorish palace is one of Spain’s and ’s most important cultural attractions, and a visit to would not be complete without seeing it. Built in the 14th century for the last Muslim emir, the architecture is a prime example of intricate arabesque design and together with the gardens and water features make this a truly breath-taking place to visit. Holidays in – Experience the Moorish legacySurrounding the Alhambra is the old Moorish medina; a series of spellbinding climbing streets and alleys called the Albaicin. These streets lead to the plaza de San Nicolas, which gives unparalleled views of the Alhambra and in the background the snowy peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The plaza is always full of locals and tourists alike taking in the ambience that gives its truly romantic reputation. With a visit in the later stages of the afternoon you may be lucky enough to enjoy an impromptu flamenco concert by one of ’s many local performers who make the dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Nevada Mountains their stage.  Holidays – Gateway to the Sierra Nevada has a wide variety of restaurants and bars dotted around the centre, serving a wide variety of Andalusian, Iberian and European cuisine. A multitude of activities for the cultural tourist include the Gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria de la encarnacion, located in the centre of the city, and the Museo parque de las Ciencias. When tiring of ’s endless cultural attractions, a short bus ride away is the Sierra Nevada mountain range, where during the winter months the traveller seeking an activity holiday can ski or snow board, or during the summer months hike, cycle and bird watch. All this contributes to ’s fantastic reputation and makes it a destination that you cannot afford to miss when choosing your next mountain holiday.

Andalusia Things to do

National ParksAndalusia contains two beautiful National Parks; the Sierra Nevada and the Donana National Park. These parks contain diverse landscapes including glacial lakes, rivers, wetlands, deserts and majestic mountains and valleys. Hiking, walking, mountain biking, horse riding, canoeing and jeep tours are just a few of the ways to view these magnificent beauty spots. Winter SportsAndalusia does contain the best skiing conditions in southern Europe. The Sierra Nevada mountain range attracts thousands of skiers and snowboarders every year from December to early May. Pradollano is one of the major ski resorts in Andalusia boasting excellent ski facilities and plays host to international skiing events. Water SportsAs you would expect from a region with a sunny climate and stunning beaches there are plenty of water sports in Andalucia. The national park’s lakes and rivers are ideal for boating, rafting, fishing and canyoning. The beaches at Costa de la Luz and Costa del Sol are the place for snorkelling, diving, windsurfing and jet-skiing. SightseeingAndalucia is a diverse province containing many exciting towns and cities. From vibrant flamenco dancing venues and Moorish palaces of Granada go to the world famous annual carnival at Cadiz and the incredibly romantic city of Seville. The number of sightseeing attractions is as diverse as this amazing region of Spain. GolfHolidaymakers are never far from a golf course in Andalusia. Golf is one of the most popular sports in thanks to the abundance of annual sunshine and the spectacular scenery. The championship courses at Granada and Almeria feature settings that holidaymakers will find hard to resist every single day on an Andalusian holiday. Wine ToursAndalusian wine is world famous and wine tasting tours can include the provinces of Malaga, Huelva and Jerez. Guided tours can be taken of these famous provinces and the many smaller wine districts in Andalusia.Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendExtrasCar hire

Granada Things to do

Winter SportsWinter sports in Granada can include skiing and snowboarding in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Located a mere 32Km from the centre of Granada, this world famous skiing location boasts 61Km of ski slopes over 45 pistes. The ski season in Granada stretches from early December to early May. At 3,482 metres, Mulhacen is the highest summit and there are ski slopes to suit all experience levels. National ParksThe Sierra Nevada National Park is one of Granada’s most stunning natural beauty spots and is ideal for hiking, mountain biking and horse riding. This diverse location includes waterfalls, rivers, glacial lakes, gorges and snowy peaks stretching up more than 3000 metres. The park is also a popular location for paragliding, fishing, canoeing and rafting. GolfGolf in Granada is a popular sport thanks to the warm climate and stunning scenery. There are three golf courses within easy access of the city of Granada including the 18-hole courses at the Club de Golf Granada and the Medina Elvira Golf. These landscaped courses include a variety of lakes, pine trees and mountain views. BeachesHolidaymakers are never far from beautiful golden sand beaches in Granada. Granada’s tropical coast offers 100 kilometres of beaches including Malaga, Los Llanos and Motril. Swimming, snorkelling, boating, windsurfing and diving are all available at these and many more beaches in Granada. SightseeingSightseeing in Granada can include the vibrant and historic city of Granada known for its beautiful cathedral’s, churches, city gardens, and more recently it’s vibrant nightlife. Holidaymakers can visit the Zaidin district on Saturdays to enjoy the huge outdoor market, and the Sacromonte district, known as the flamenco song and dance area. ExcursionsDon’t miss a chance to visit Granada’s high plateau in the north with its amazing cave dwellings set within a spectacular mountain setting known as the Altiplano de Granada.Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendExtrasCar hire

Alpujarras Things to do

Sports ActivitiesLas Alpujarras provides easy access to the Sierra Nevada National Park. This stunning natural beauty spot is ideal for walking, hiking, mountain-biking, bird watching and horseback riding. The rivers and lakes are popular spots for canoeing, swimming, rafting and fishing. Paragliding and canyoning are also available for holidaymakers who enjoy extreme sports. GolfThere are four golf courses within a mere 30 minute drive from Las Alpujarras. The Santa Clara and Medina Elvira are both 18-hole championship golf courses with lake features and superb mountain views. The 18-hole Los Moriscos golf course is located near the town of Motril and a round of golf can be combined with a trip to Motril’s golden beaches. Water SportsWater sports in Las Alpujarras can be enjoyed on the rivers and lakes of the national parks or at the beach resorts along the Costa Tropical. Windsurfing, diving, snorkelling, sailing and jet-skiing are just a few of the water sports available in sun-drenched Las Alpujarras. Winter SportsSkiing and snowboarding in Las Alpujarras are available thanks to the close proximity to the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The Sierra Nevada Mountains are world famous for their excellent skiing conditions, and cross country and downhill skiing are available on the 61Km of ski slopes. It is possible to go skiing in the morning and enjoy sunbathing on the beach later in the same day. SightseeingSightseeing in Las Alpujarras can include a day trip to the city of Granada to view the Moorish fortress, beautiful gardens and the Nazari palaces. Holidaymakers can explore the Buddhist retreats high in the mountains and enjoy some traditional Arab baths in Granada. Jeep tours of the Sierra Nevada National Park are a must as well as visiting the stunning beaches only a 30 minute drive from Las Alpujarras.Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendExtrasCar hire

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Istrian peninsula

Holidays – Stunning lakes and mountainsIn the north-west of Croatia, close to the borders of Slovenia and Italy, lies the beautiful . A land of beautiful beaches, of a vibrant and mixed culture set against the beautiful backdrop of the Ucka Mountains, Istria is sure to delight on your next lakes and mountains holiday. Truly the centre of Europe, Istria has passed from the hands of Austria to Italy to Yugoslavia and finally to Croatia all in the past century. Istria can be reached through the local airport at Pula, or for more options there are also the airports at Split, Dubrovnik and Zagreb. Holidays in the Istria Peninsula – Explore the natural landscapes of central Istria The beauty of the is truly difficult to compare. With Mediterranean beaches, medieval towns and a lush green interior of high mountain peaks and rolling valleys, the only thing one might be pushed to find on cheap holidays in Istria is time to see everything you want. Istria can be divided into three regions for you to explore; Western, Eastern and Central Istria, each with its own unique treasures waiting to be discovered. The wooded interior of Central Istria is dotted with towns steeped in local history and culture. The quality of the natural surroundings are exceptional and a true rarity among most Mediterranean destinations.  Holidays – History, culture and beaches Eastern Istria is known as the land where the mountains meet the sea, and is a haven for artists. The pretty towns of Labin and Rabac and their beaches in the north compete for attention with the history of the Pula and Medulin regions. There, early Catholic churches sit alongside Roman temples and Austrian villas in this mammoth of historical significance. From here we move to the western region of Istia, home to the more bustling tourist town of Porec, full of bars and clubs. If it’s time to let your hair down, this is the place for you. With so much variety on offer, the awaits you on your next lakes and mountains holiday in Croatia.