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.

The ancient craft of Xuan paper making is one of China's most remarkable traditions. Join me inside Anhui's spectacular Xuan Paper Museum to discover how more than 180 painstaking processes transform natural fibres into the paper prized by artists and calligraphers for centuries.

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

As Europe's summers grow hotter, Denmark's beautiful Kystlandet offers the perfect coolcation. Discover sandy beaches, charming coastal towns, delicious food, scenic walks and refreshing Scandinavian hospitality far from the crowds and heatwaves.

Explore the dramatic Imbros Gorge in Western Crete, a scenic and less crowded alternative to the Samaria Gorge. Starting from the quaint village of Imbros, this 8 km hike features striking rock formations, the narrow "Iron Gates," and diverse flora and fauna, including the Cretan Wildcat. Rich in history and natural beauty, the trek ends in Komitades with stunning Libyan Sea views. Ideal for average fitness levels, it's a must-try for hiking enthusiasts

<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="">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>

<p class="">Martin Hesp spends a day in Lucca, Tuscany - a remarkable Renaissance city - the perfect sort of place in which to explore on a Sunday morning</p>

<p class="">Martin Hesp visits a fabulous hotel near Pisa in Tuscany - the legendary Bagni Di Pisa - where enjoys the historic ambience and fabulous food and wine</p>

<p class="">Martin Hesp visits one of the most remarkable hotels in all of Italy - the Grotta Giusti spa resort is located in the hills of Tuscany, and it offers some amazing surprises</p>

Martin Hesp travels to the interior of St Lucia in the Caribbean where he enjoys walks in the rainforest

<p class="">Martin Hesp explores Japanese food while visiting Hokkaido and Tokyo</p>

Having a barbecue halfway up a Swiss mountain in winter might not sound like much fun - but it can be fantastic experience if you happen to have a snug and cosy BBQ-hut to cook in

<p class="">Martin Hesp recalls visiting the amazing Unspunnen Festival in Central Switzerland - it was in 2017 - and there’s another nine years to wait for the next…</p>

<p class="">Walking Madeira’s magnificent levadas. Martin Hesp has created a podcast about the experience and put a selection of photographs onto his website</p>