A quick trip around Le Marche in Central Italy

Leave the beaches behind and discover the real Lanzarote on foot. From dramatic volcanic landscapes and lava fields to secluded coves, traditional villages and spectacular coastal paths, this walking holiday reveals a side of the Canary Islands that most visitors never see. Perfect inspiration for hikers, nature lovers and adventurous travellers.

Most visitors head to Tenerife for sunshine and beaches, but this remarkable Canary Island offers far more. From dramatic volcanic landscapes and spectacular walking trails to traditional villages, outstanding food and breathtaking mountain scenery, here's why Tenerife deserves to be explored well beyond its famous resorts.

Samos is one of Greece's finest walking destinations, with mountain trails, peaceful villages, forests and spectacular Aegean views. Join Martin Hesp on an unforgettable hiking adventure led by legendary guide Rupert Mostert.

Many years ago,actually nearly half a century ago, I visited the town of Nafplion in Greece. That’s how we pronounced it but I see that you leave the final “n” off the name when you’re writing it in Greek. Anyway, we loved the place. And it’s easy to explain why. We had driven from England in 1977 in an old Renault 16 which had broken down a few times along the way. It is a very long way from the English Channel down to Greece via what used to be known as Yugoslavia. We had t

The Changing Face of Our Dinner Tables 🍽️ The items that appear on the average West Country dinner table have changed dramatically over the past 20 to 30 years. Gone are the days when a simple plate of meat and two veg’ ruled supreme. Today, our tables are filled with diverse ingredients, flavours, and products that many of us would never have imagined back then. And this is particularly true in the case of wine. The Evolution of Wine in the West Country 🍷 From Exclusive Tr

There are place names in the great European atlas that are enough to make the discerning traveller scuttle in the opposite direction – for example, having travelled to almost every corner of the EU in 30 years of writing travel articles, I’ve always managed to avoid the Algarve thinking it to be overcrowded and over-exploited. But one generalises at one’s peril. I am sure there are parts of Portugal’s southern coastline which are overbearing in certain seasons, but the south

It was a burning hot morning the day we visited this famous market situated in the heart of Provence. If I’m honest, I was beginning to dread facing the crowds and overheated streets, but then, I’d never been to L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue before. The first thing I realised was that it features a great many cooling waterways, and these really did have the effect of reducing the sun’s heat. L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a picturesque town which plays host to one of the region's most popul

The Bagni Di Pisa Palace and Thermal Spa is a very impressive indeed. The place is reminiscent of the sort of place Agatha Christie might have visited - if Poirot ever went anywhere to “take the waters” this would be the place. Actually, someone who did write something famous in this very hotel was Mary Shelley - who finished penning her story Frankenstein here after being partly inspired to write it back at home in Somerset’s Quantock Hills. I attended a wine class in the

It’s amazing how things can stick in your mind, even if they are all to do with ancient history. I was thinking this recently when I snapped our photo of a Viking long boat on its moorings on a lake in deepest darkest Jutland and it reminded me of my childhood. Just opposite my old West Country school there was a field called Battle Gore, the legend of which used to fill us boys with wonder and awe. A huge battle was once fought right there in our own little village. Wow! And

There’s a rift occurring in the world of holiday and travel at the moment. For decades most Brits and northern Europeans have had a set notion that a vacation should include plenty of sun, sea and blue skies - which is why we’ve been flocking to the Med for the past 50 years. Now, though, endless heatwaves are making that concept look somewhat over-baked. Who wants to holiday in a place where you are forced to hide from the sun in body-sapping temperatures of over 40 degrees?

Some years ago, we travelled to Venice in the depths of winter because my stepdaughter Emma was having a major exhibition of her jewellery in the city. What follows is the newspaper article I wrote at the time… The Silent City. That’s what I call Venice now that I’ve been there in the back end of February. As a countryman, the thing I dislike most about any urban environment is the general, all-pervading, mind-numbing, noise. I have never been to a city that doesn’t shake wit

Exploring the Majestic Beauty of Castelluccio and the Piano Grande Plain Many years ago we were staying with friends in Umbria and we all went up into the Sibillini Mountains to visit the old town of Castellucio and the famous Piano Grande Plain. You’ll find all this in the very heart of Italy. This enchanting and captivating locale offers a tranquil escape with its stunning landscapes. The Village of Castelluccio: A Glimpse into Pastoral Elegance Castelluccio, the highest se

<p class="">Stavros, the beach from 'Zorba the Greek... This tranquil beach, famous for Anthony Quinn's dance in "Zorba the Greek," offers more than cinematic history. Experience the charm of Stavros, with its distinctive mountain backdrop, soft sandy shores, and clear, shallow waters perfect for family swimming - a natural haven, unspoiled by commercial tourism. </p>

<p class="">Discover the enchanting Austrian Alpine villages of Ladis, Fiss, and Serfaus. Nestled in Tyrol, these picturesque destinations offer a perfect blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and modern amenities. Explore castles, enjoy skiing on extensive slopes, or hike scenic trails. Experience local traditions, indulge in Tyrolean cuisine, and stay in cozy accommodations. Ideal for both summer adventures and winter sports, Ladis, Fiss, and Serfaus are must-visit des

<p class="">Embark on an unforgettable journey with European Waterways aboard the luxurious 'L'Art de Vivre'. Experience the charm of Burgundy's countryside at a leisurely pace. This hotel barge, transformed from a Scottish timber carrier, offers a unique blend of opulence and historical elegance. With just six passengers, enjoy personalised service from a dedicated crew, including a master chef crafting exquisite meals. Daily excursions reveal France's hidden gems, from hist

<p class=""><strong><em>Tuno, a serene island off Denmark's eastern coast, offers visitors an authentic Scandinavian experience, far from touristy crowds. Starting at the picturesque Tuno Harbour, a perimeter walk reveals diverse landscapes: the west boasts verdant fields and traditional farmhouses, while the rugged northern shores are a haven for bird-watchers with its rocky outcrops. The eastern shore presents pristine sandy beaches. This tranquil walk finishes back at the

<p class="">Hanover’s bustling city centre is rich with history, culture, and beautiful architecture, making it a must-visit destination for any traveller</p>

Introduction: Autostadt in Wolfsburg , Germany, is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts and families alike. This exceptional automotive theme park offers a glimpse into the world of Volkswagen and its subsidiary brands, combining entertainment, education, and innovation in one spectacular venue. From car museums to driving experiences, Autostadt is a one-of-a-kind adventure which petrol-heads will not want to miss. In this article, we'll take you on a virtual tour of

Introduction We visited the remarkable and history-rich town of Wolfenbüttel when the British Guild of Travel Writers was invited on a tour of Lower Saxony recently. It is a picturesque town that combines rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. This hidden gem attracts history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and tourists from all around the world. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top attractions, events, and experiences that make W