<p class="">Martin Hesp continues his memoirs of travelling around rural France - extending his journeyings in the Cantal region</p>

<p class="">Rural France offers so much - driving through its endless rural byways is one thing I am missing during these days of lockdown. Here I recall a trip to the fabulous Cantal region…</p>

Walking Madeira’s magnificent levadas. Martin Hesp has created a podcast about the experience and put a selection of photographs onto his website

<p class="">The second half of Martin'm Hesp\s tour of the Amalfi coast</p>

What happens when devoted Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts gather in the Swiss Alps? Join me on an unforgettable literary pilgrimage to Meiringen and the Reichenbach Falls, where fiction, history and spectacular mountain scenery come together in one remarkable adventure.

Escape the winter gloom with a journey to Ciutadella, Menorca’s sunlit old capital. Rise above its fjord-like harbour to wander narrow streets steeped in Moorish heritage, sample exceptional fresh seafood tapas at the ancient working market, and uncover the town's dramatic Mediterranean history.

<p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">Thoughts on train rides - and in particular, travelling across Switzerland in trains</p>

While TV adverts show luxurious Rhine cruises, staying on solid ground unlocks the real magic of Germany's UNESCO-listed gorge. Lace up your boots to explore historic wine villages like Rüdesheim, world-class crisp Riesling, and stunning timbered trails high above the river loops.

Puglia is somehow even more Italian than Italy itself." From the iconic beehive-shaped trulli of Villa Castelli to the underground olive oil presses of the Salento plain, discover a region where the "Slow Food" movement isn't a trend—it's a way of life. Join Martin Hesp as he explores the white hilltop towns and 10-course lunches of Italy’s stunning south-eastern heel.

I'd go again at the drop of a sombrero." Forget the "Marbs" reputation—Marbella is a sophisticated joy. Explore a world of historic plazas, 360-degree rooftop views, and mountain hikes overlooking the coast of North Africa.

A stay at Ruby Hotels in Vienna offers a stylish and surprisingly affordable base in one of Europe’s most elegant cities. Built around the brand’s “lean luxury” concept, these design-led hotels combine characterful buildings, smart rooms and lively bars in some of Vienna’s most interesting neighbourhoods. For travellers seeking comfort without unnecessary fuss, Ruby Hotels provide a refreshing take on the modern city break stay.

Southern Sardinia is one of the Mediterranean's hidden gems. Discover the stunning beaches of Chia, luxury coastal resorts, crystal-clear waters, Sardinian cuisine, wildlife and why this beautiful corner of Italy deserves far more attention.

Think Viennese food starts and ends with a breaded veal cutlet? Think again. Join travel journalist Martin Hesp as he goes beyond the tourist trail to uncover the rich, historic, and surprisingly diverse culinary secrets of Austria's capital city.

<p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">The dishes of Tuscany are to be found all around the world nowadays. But why is that? I went to this beautiful part of Italy to find out more about the cuisine.</p>

Discover the rich flavours of Sardinia, one of Italy's most distinctive culinary destinations. From the island's famous bottarga – once known as "Sardinian Gold" – to artisan cheeses, handmade pasta, fresh seafood and exceptional wines, this guide explores the traditions, people and unforgettable tastes that make Sardinian cuisine so special.

Life might never be quite as good as this again." Imagine an entire medieval hilltop village converted into a single, breathtaking boutique hotel. From cycle-ride picnics in the Provencal sun to the curated cheeses of a resident Maître fromagère, discover the magic of Crillon Le Brave.