Readers

An Edinburgh institution

W Armstrong in Edinburgh is a true institution. There are several locations, but the Grassmarket spot is a treasure trove. Frequented by locals, students and tourists alike, there is a price point for all. Whether I’ve been on the hunt for vintage cashmere, denim, fabulous 1950s dresses, garb for a fancy dress party or even a kilt, this store has sorted me out. It is always a favourite for when friends visit the city, and whether you are looking to buy or not, it is worth a visit just to see its eclectic collection.
Amy

An Erasmus exchange took me to Budapest, where I discovered a city full of vintage shops and flea markets. The city is dotted with Humana shops for staple wardrobe finds; there’s the Ecseri flea market for the more unusual (interspersed with the occasional plastic Stalin bust); plus chic, rambling stores like Szputnyik and Retrock Vintage – think racks of leather jackets and tulle tops among giant monstera plants. Antiques shops are also found tucked away, their contents spilling on to the pavements outside. A particularly favourite find was a set of intricate hand-painted embroidery layouts on kraft paper from the 1930s, each signed by the artist.
Katie

Lyon’s canalside treasure trove

Why Innsbruck makes the perfect winter base

Innsbruck offers lots of options for a winter holiday. I found it’s a place where you don’t have to hurtle down ski slopes or dance like crazy at après-ski parties. In fact I was amazed when I took the 20-minute cable car from the city centre up 2,000 metres to an area where locals were sitting in deckchairs on the snow reading books and sipping hot chocolate in the strong Tirolean sunshine. You can ski to your heart’s content on slopes just half an hour from the famous Imperial Palace in the city centre. The city authorities provide some guided free walks and winter activities, including a cross-country skiing taster if you have a Welcome Card provided by your hotel. Then again, you can just sit and sample strong Austrian coffee or Gerschtnsuppe (soup with barley, smoked meat and vegetables) at riverside cafes and pubs.
Gina

Ski and hit the beach in one day in Andalucía

The Sierra Nevada range is just 17 miles south of Granada in Andalucía, making the beautiful city a viable place to stay if visiting these high mountains. For skiers the resort village of Pradollano is at 2,100 metres, from which cable cars and chairlifts reach up close to the 3,000-metre summits. It’s a fantastic ski resort, Europe’s most southerly, but is still very much under most people’s radar. There are 112km of pistes and 134 slopes, most of which are well above 2,000 metres so snow is fairly reliable. This year it’s opening on 29 November with ski passes from €38. It’s little more than an hour’s drive to Motril and the Mediterranean. You really can ski in the morning and go to the beach in the afternoon.
Stephen McCann

Peaks of the Balkans, Albania and Montenegro

Last year I enjoyed a brilliant winter trip in the Albanian Alps and in Montenegro. Highlights included the walk to and from the spectacular Grunas waterfall in Theth national park in Albania, and the hike to 1,970-metre Hrid lake in Montenegro’s Prokletije national park. We skied and walked a section of the 120-mile Peaks of the Balkans trail and spent some time in the lively town of Plav, which included a folk song and karaoke night with some locals where I taught one group a version of Last Christmas to great applause.
Nick

The Alps in infrared, Austria

We stayed at the lodge Jagdhaus (€220 a night, sleeps up to 6) at Furx in western Austria. This wonderful place has a sauna, an infrared chamber and an external hot tub from which to enjoy special views towards the Alps. There are any amount of scenic walks on your doorstep and, 100 metres below, there is the Peterhof restaurant with remarkably low prices for such a high standard of cuisine.
Kevin Hill

Twinkling lights in Poland’s Tatra mountains

I first discovered the Tatra mountains on a day trip from Kraków some years ago and returned for a mountain break last February, staying in Zakopane, which is a great base for skiers and anyone who enjoys winter mountain activities. It’s affordable (my chalet for a week was just €400) and has lovely traditional wooden and stone houses, cafes and cheap restaurants serving tasty Polish stews and filled pierogis, which kept us warm throughout. We hired snow shoes to explore the foothills by day and at dusk the twinkling lights of the mountain villages came on, adding to the wonderful scene of lakes, mountains and forests. We also enjoyed sleigh rides and husky-driven carriages through the silent forests to magical ice mazes.
Yasmin

The amazing light of Eryri, north Wales

Our favourite winter break is at Llanberis in Eryri national park (Snowdonia). It’s peaceful, dramatic, and full of charm without Alpine crowds. We love the cozy log fires, hikes up the mountain passing waterfalls and the choice of yurts and eco-lodges to stay in. It’s particularly stunning in cold weather when kissed with snow or frost. The amazing light on the Llyn Padarn recreates a mirror in a breathtaking landscape dominated by Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). A special treat is the authentic Welsh community of makers and local craftspeople. Music, food and friendliness make this a more delightful experience than going abroad.
David Innes-Wilkin

Adrenaline-fuelled days in Austria

Kreischberg in the state of Styria is a medium-sized resort with log cabins and a James Bond-style restaurant in which to dine in style. We stayed at the base of the mountain in the Ferienpark cabins; each with log burners to cosy up beside. When it comes to skiing, take the long telecabin up the Kreischberg and explore blues, reds and blacks. For the best slopes head to Rosenkranzhöhe, where there are sweeping reds and blacks with expansive views over the Alps. After an adrenaline-fuelled morning, and for the best restaurant views, head to the Eagle, styled like a Bond villain’s lair.
Mark

Winning tip: Ice age roots in Sweden

There are mountain areas in Sweden where some of the oldest living things in Europe survive. When the ice retreated from Scandinavia 9,000 years ago, various isolated elevated areas were left frozen, and the root systems of ice age trees live on. Sonfjället national park in the empty Härjedalen region of central west Sweden is one such area, where the spruce Old Rasmus, grown from 9,500-year-old roots, can be found. The park is also known for its high density of bears. I return to the mountains in summer, autumn or winter. I find them incredibly peaceful; you can experience absolute silence and often you can gaze at the northern lights.
Lars

Winning tip: fabulous food and views on a Scottish island

There are not many pub lunches that require a trip across the Atlantic, but to reach Tigh An Truish (a 30-minute drive south of Oban), visitors must cross the 250-year-old Bridge over the Atlantic – Clachan Bridge, which links the west coast of the Scottish mainland to the Isle of Seil. This transatlantic journey is well worth it for delicious and lovingly presented local fare (think Argyll venison and mussels brought into Oban harbour). The pub bustles with visitors and locals, while the adjoining restaurant is a warm space to coorie in from the wild west coast and enjoy the stunning views down the Clachan Sound.
Calum Hamilton

Homegrown ingredients in the South Downs

Winning tip: rediscovering Interrail 45 years on

I went Interrailing at 16 – so decided to do it again at 61! My wife and I bought our passes for all of Europe (under £500 for one-month unlimited rail trips) and it was great to rediscover the sense of freedom and adventure travelling by train gave. Having a romantic dinner in Paris, getting on the night train and having coffee and croissants for breakfast in Nice on the Côte d’Azur for example. I corrected the teenage mistake of trying to do too much and see too many places so we lingered longer in places such as Poland and Romania, soaking up the atmosphere in Wrocław and Bucharest. It was interesting to compare the speed, quality and comfort of train services too. We found that sometimes slow travel was better – like when we got on the wrong train from Rome to Naples, allowing us to appreciate the scenery, locals and way of life of people who were not in a hurry. The trip was a learning experience at 61 as much as it had been at 16.
Peter

Flight and fancy-free, cycling from Saint-Malo to Nice

In pursuit of a flight-free adventure, we packed our bikes (and several panniers) on to the Eurostar for a three-week cycling trip across France. Our initial worries about sore legs and flat tyres quickly faded away as we pedalled along comfortable cycle lanes in the picturesque French countryside, fuelled by village boulangeries and cold local beer. We covered 1,040 miles from Saint-Malo to Nice via the Dordogne, staying in B&Bs or rented apartments each night (from £100 per night). Highlights included stops for refreshing swims in rivers, avoiding airport chaos, and proving that holidays in your 60s can be active and fun.
Karen and Andrew

I put away the atlas and had the time of my life in Powys

I turned 60 in 2015. With one eye on my pension settlement and another on the atlas, I dreamed of travelling the world, staying in breathtaking locations with stupendous views. I never realised that the most rewarding stay would be in a tiny cabin in Clyro, Powys. Was it the compact design, the comfortable bed, the picture windows framed by woods and pasture? Partly, but more importantly I learned how little I needed to feel happy and comfortable. In this beautiful woodland setting, within walking distance of a pub and not too far from twee little Hay-on-Wye, I had everything I needed.
Linda

I went to Japan for the cherry blossom – and saw it at its peak

At 69, I embarked on an 18-day solo adventure across Japan. My goal was to witness the cherry blossom, and I saw it at its peak. Starting in Osaka, my journey led me through Kyoto, Kobe, Okayama, Kurashiki and finally Tokyo. I wandered through historic gardens unchanged for centuries, admired weeping cherry trees along riverbanks, and watched sakura reflections dance across still ponds. Every path seemed lined with blossom, and side trips to shrines, temples and castles deepened the sense of timeless wonder.
Marilisa Fiorani

Squabbles and giggles from London to San Sebastián

Five female friends from York to Brighton, collected over 54 years from university, between 74 and 84, do rail trips round Europe. Last year we did London to Paris, staying in La Rochelle, Bordeaux and San Sebastián. We are like an extended marriage, dipping in and out of shared history, politics, and to disagree and insult each other with only temporary hurt. It takes months of planning, each person booking accommodation or part of the rail journey – which is where the Man in Seat 61 is so helpful. We are three vegetarians, two meat eaters, four fish eaters, two teetotallers. At an amazing fish restaurant in La Rochelle, one of the two vegetarians asked: “Couldn’t you do us an omelette?” The waiter chased them away rather angrily, but the rest of us had delicious seafood with good wine. In La Rochelle we disagreed over the way to the Airbnb. Running late, we were greeted with applause by the owner’s mother, who had spotted five old ladies with backpacks and wheelie suitcases from many metres away!
Sue

Brittany on two wheels is heaven

Earlier this summer, at 64, I used a 22-year-old van conversion as a base for exploring Brittany’s Gulf of Morbihan by bicycle. Pedalling along deserted lanes and canal paths, I discovered picture-book villages and towns, tidal creeks, coastal cliffs and ancient woodlands. I came across dolmens and menhirs, medieval castles and Nazi bunkers, and took ferries to car-free islands with empty beaches and incredible views. I rode to creperies for lunch and restaurants for dinner, ate like a king and slept like a baby. For a 64-year-old on two wheels, Brittany is nothing short of heaven.
Kelvin Atkins

Bewildering but beautiful Baku, Azerbaijan

The old town in Baku, Azerbaijan, is a bewildering labyrinth of alleys and roads, all packed inside fortified walls. Islamic, Russian colonial and post-independence influences merge in the architecture. A palace, mosques, museums, galleries and caravanserais are jammed together in delightful disarray. One highlight is the Maiden Tower, certainly 12th century and possibly once a Zoroastrian fire temple. The Philharmonic Garden, just beyond the wall, provides a calming green space. We enjoyed our stay at the Two Seasons boutique hotel in Sabir Street, and would recommend it.
Alex

I left my comfort zone for Turkmenistan

Visiting five former-Soviet “stans” in 34 days was destined to be challenging, regardless of age. But when you’re a pampered, weak-bladdered 65-year-old, yurt camps with outdoor toilets and shared facilities in family homes were not within my comfort zone. Crossing into countries with difficult neighbouring relationships proved time-consuming, with Turkmenistan, one of the world’s least visited countries, involving copious paperwork, expensive visas and, in June 2024, a Covid test. There was no ideal time to visit, and temperatures ranged from 40C to -10C at night. However, stunning scenery, friendly people and ubiquitous plov (a rice-based pilaf), meant I not only survived the trip but thoroughly loved it.
Helen Jackson

A trek to a holy valley in Nepal

In 2017, aged 69 and with friends, I took an eight-hour minibus journey from Kathmandu then walked for four days to get to the Tsum valley, a remote Himalayan valley close to the Nepalese border with Tibet. The path was about 3,000 metres high and was surrounded by the 7,000-metre peaks of the Ganesh Himāl; we found people living without mechanisation, roads, vehicles or wifi. Buddhists regard it as a beyul, a hidden and holy refuge to be discovered when it is feared the planet is approaching destruction and the world has become too corrupt for spiritual practice. It seemed an appropriate place to be, then and now. I planned the journey using Kathmandu-based trekking company Beyond the Limits.
Michael Wilson

Pedalling through Portugal’s Alentejo

My friend and I are both in our early 60s and love cycling in Portugal. It’s safe, has bicycle-considerate drivers and we always meet lovely, helpful local people. In September, we began our self-mapped tour in the southern Alentejo town of Évora, pedalling our way through remote, beautiful, rolling countryside, to our final destination of Olhão with its beautiful beaches, on the Algarve’s eastern coast.
Ruth Morris

Winning tip: an away day in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides

I’d recommend visiting the Outer Hebrides island of Berneray for an experience of true remoteness. Here you can walk across the rare grassland called the machair to the white, three-mile long West Beach, which looks out into the North Atlantic, and marvel at the immense space and colour of the sea. We stayed at a Gatliff Hebridean hostel, which consists of two converted crofts where for about £20 a night for a bunk you will be staying in probably one of the most peaceful locations in the world. Berneray is between North Uist and Harris.
Nik Fernee

Ancient and modern digs in the Highlands

Perched above the sea in remote Achiltibuie, the Brochs of Coigach are two stunning stone dwellings that blend ancient design with modern luxury. With panoramic views of the Summer Isles, red deer grazing nearby and sea eagles overhead, it’s a true escape into the wild. Visit in autumn for fiery sunsets, crisp air and a chance to see the northern lights. The midges are gone, the beach below is perfect for evening walks and the silence is unforgettable.
Dean

Greek island without the crowds

Astypalaia has the same pretty, white-washed houses you see on famous Greek islands, but it’s far less busy. The main town, Chora, is beautiful, with buildings leading up a hill to an old castle. We rented a small apartment and spent our days on quiet pebble beaches that we had almost to ourselves. It’s a genuinely peaceful place where you can properly switch off from the noise of modern life. This Dodecanese island is the focus of a scheme for emission-free transport, with generous grants to replace petrol and diesel vehicles with electric ones.
Roy

Under the stars of Carmarthenshire

We woke to birdsong and the sounds of a rushing brook and ate breakfast while the morning light streamed through the windows of Y Caban, near the village of Login in Carmarthenshire. Hearing its story of being created from local forests was as fascinating as the walk through the tall woods that surround it. We watched red kites soar over the valley before stargazing under a sky free from light pollution. Such tranquility and connection with nature is hard to find in the UK these days, but the benefits are palpable – we left rested and refreshed, more so than any recent holiday.
Hannah

Magical Irish castle

We stayed at the Annes Grove Miniature Castle in Castletownroche, County Cork, near to the ruined Augustinian Bridgetown Priory and Blackwater Castle, in what felt like the middle of nowhere. It was magical. The Irish Landmark Trust has renovated it for people to stay in, complete with a wood-burning stove and comfy gothic bed. I found there to be nothing like having a whiskey by the fire surrounded by beautiful nature – and being able to say you spent a weekend in a castle, how cool is that!
Lotte

Delta ‘on the edge of the world’, Romania

The Danube Delta in Romania feels like the edge of the world at the eastern frontier of the EU. Accessible by boat from the port of Tulcea, it is one of Europe’s largest and most vital wetland ecosystems and is full of wildlife. We stayed at the Delta Boutique & Carmen Silva Resort in Crișan, an old working fishing village where tranquil evenings are broken only by the lively chorus of frogs. Guided boat safaris, including to see pelicans, can be arranged through the hotel.
Josh

‘Shrouded in fog and empty space’ in the Faroe Islands

Some years ago, having read Girl, Interrupted author Susanna Kaysen’s bleakly beautiful account of an anthropologist’s stay in the Faroe Islands (Far Afield), I took myself to what is now the Hotel Djurhuus on the edge of the capital, Tórshavn, to experience the archipelago for myself. Expertly guided by Tora tours, I endured a dreadful but thankfully short sea crossing to Mykines to see puffins, visited the beautiful villages of Saksun (population: eight) and Gjógv (a metropolis of 31 inhabitants) and explored Tinganes, location of the islands’ parliament. It was the most wonderful, wild and remote August week, shrouded in fog and empty space.
Abigail

Off-grid in Northumberland

Last October we had a wonderful week in the most remote part of Northumberland – the Upper Coquet valley. Our stay was an off-grid, simple bunk barn called Nightfold at the top of the valley. We spent a week living like woodland creatures in autumn – eating heartily, keeping ourselves warm (thanks to the wood-burning stove) and sleeping. In the daytime, we did long walks where we didn’t see a single other person – only sheep, deer, birds and squirrels. At night there were endless stars, the Milky Way and reading by candlelight. Bliss.
Ben

Free camping in Portugal’s mountains

The sleepy villages of continental Portugal’s highest mountain range, the Serra da Estrela, are a world away from the coastal honeypots of Lisbon and Porto. In Vila Cova à Coelheira there is a free campsite on the banks of the Alva river, reached via an old Roman bridge that you can swim under (or jump in from if you’re feeling brave). Even better, there is a bar at the river beach that serves excellent pica-pau – pork braised in wine, with onions and pickles. During my stay there I never encountered more than one or two others camping.
David

Croatia’s Mljet island is not for the jet set

Away from Dubrovnik’s cruise-ship crowds, Mljet island feels like another world: pine forests dipping into turquoise bays, an ancient monastery on a tiny islet in the middle of a saltwater lake, and hardly a sound beyond cicadas and the wind. I stayed in a simple family-run cottage just outside the national park gates, where evenings meant grilled fish on the terrace and nights under skies thick with stars. Days were spent kayaking across mirror-still water and walking through pine-scented trails where I rarely met another soul. It felt like stepping into a slower rhythm of life, a corner of Europe the 21st century has politely passed by.
Mark Adamson

Sibiu, Romania’s medieval treasure

Sibiu, the former capital of Transylvania, proved a wonderful place to visit. The city’s old town is on a hill, with every other building in the three main squares and the sidestreets seemingly a historic monument, dominated by the medieval Lutheran cathedral of Saint Mary. The characteristic design of attic windows makes it clear why Sibiu is called “the town of a thousand eyes”, and the Teutsch Haus provides a brilliant history of the region and the Transylvanian Saxons. The old town is crammed full of restaurants and cafes, and down by the river there is a local market with giant aubergines, tomatoes and peppers. For an evening glass, Wine Not has a vast selection of Romanian (and Moldovan) wines, and a black cat to talk to.
Barbara Forbes

Wrocław, Poland’s buzzy student city

Wrocław has the perfect mix of quirkiness and beauty to make for a cracking affordable city break. The hefty student population gives the city a real buzz, from the boat and beach bars along the River Oder (try Forma Płynna beach bar), to the delicious Georgian bakeries (stop at Piekarnia Gruzińska PURI – on Facebook – for pastries on the way to checking out the painted backyards of the Nadodrze neighbourhood). While tourists concentrate around the huge central square, exploring the edge of the old town reaps rewards, like Pub Drukarnia (delicious Litovel Czech beer) or Stacja Breslau bistro under the rail arches on Wojciecha Bogusławskiego street.
Matt Lunt

Helsinki’s world-class architecture

Our knowledge of Helsinki stemmed mainly from the films of director Aki Kaurismäki (Drifting Clouds, The Man Without a Past etc), so discovering it’s not all dockyards and cold war-era bars came as a welcome surprise. Instead, Helsinki features green spaces, coastal views, accessible islands and world-class architecture. It’s the latter we came for: from a church built into rock to state-of-the-art community space Oodi library; from the mid-century Didrichsen museum to architect Alvar Aalto’s organic modernism. But don’t forget to eat – whether it’s brunch at Levain, Michelin-starred invention at Grön or simply an exceptional korvapuusti (cinnamon roll to you and me).
David M

Marseille is fun for all the family

Marseille fitted the diverse requirements for our family city break. Warm weather, beaches, extraordinary street art, sea kayaking and amazing walking in the Calanques satisfied teenagers and parents alike. My favourites were the Mucem (Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée), the winding streets of Le Panier and the sense of the place being a melting pot of cultures. We found the locals to be friendly as they encouraged our attempts to speak French, and there\s a good transport system of trams, metro and buses. We got there easily on Eurostar and TGV train and stayed at the Aparthotel Adagio.
Evie

Berlin’s hidden design gems

Although I’ve been travelling to Berlin for nearly 20 years, I’m still making new discoveries. The headlines, like the Brandenburg Gate and the glass dome on the Reichstag, are definitely worth seeing, but there are also hidden treasures, such as the futuristic Ludwig Erhard Haus, designed by Nicolas Grimshaw, whose steel-clad exterior is just the aperitif for some jaw-dropping architecture inside. Or the ruins of St Michael’s church, which was separated from its parishioners by the Berlin Wall. And try to bag a place on the tour of the ESMT business school that once housed East Germany’s elite. The socialist stained glass and GDR coat of arms mosaic are real showstoppers.
James Carson

A dumpling and a beer in Vilnius, Lithuania

We’ve just spent three nights in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius whose old town is easily walkable with plenty of churches, museums and other sights. We indulged in local specialities like kvass, a drink made from fermented rye bread, and cepelinai, which are potato dumplings shaped like airships and filled with minced pork. A half litre of beer (about €5) was ideal with moreish kepta duona, fingers of deep-fried black bread served with a garlic dip. A walk up hundreds of steps to the Three Crosses for views over the city burned excess calories. We stayed at Domus Maria, a former monastery, near the Gate of Dawn.
Helen Jackson

Why Maastricht is a must

A three-hour drive from Calais, or two-hour train journey from Brussels changing at Liège-Guillemins, is the Dutch city of Maastricht. Compact, largely flat (handy for an arthritic retiree) and utterly delightful. As a university town, we enjoyed the friendly, lively vibe but this did not distract from its charm and its history. The cloth market on Wednesdays and the bric-a-brac market at the weekend in the main square are amazing (we bought a milk churn!), the frites at the surrounding cafes were great and the beer was varied and delicious. Boekhandel Dominicanen (a bookshop in a converted middle-ages abbey) was certainly a highlight.
Bruce Horton

Beer spa in Olomouc, Czech Republic

Olomouc in the Czech Republic is an utter delight. Gleaming spires and domes, two old town squares, enchanting cobbled lanes, trams and its own astronomical clock. It also has a Unesco-recognised holy trinity column, which was built to mark the end of a plague in the early 18th century. A two-hour train ride from Prague, Olomouc is markedly less touristy than the Czech capital. Two great places to enjoy a beer were Saint Venceslav’s brewery, where there is a beer spa with a sauna scented with hops; and Twinburg, next to the Moravian cycle path, which serves delicious craft ales. This is a city I felt had been put on Earth specially for me.
Jack Anderton

Polar nights in Tromsø, Norway’s ‘Arctic capital’

As a Scot who once sought drawn-out summer nights, I now lean into the opposite with fervour. Winter in Tromsø, Norway – the “Arctic capital” – is for travellers who embrace the long, dark nights and are keen to meddle with their circadian rhythms. The polar night, when the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon, starts at the end of November and finishes in mid-January. Experience this unworldly extended twilight – the blue hour – from about 9am to 2pm. The Fjellheisen cable car and silent whale-watching with Brim Explorer are two recommended activities.
Aimee Lawrence

Winning tip: blessed are the cheese markets in Alkmaar, the Netherlands

I recently visited Alkmaar, 35 minutes north of Amsterdam by train, which has waterways, picturesque pedestrian-friendly cobbled streets, chiming churches, excellent food (De Heeren Van Sonoy, Stadskaffee Laurens and Patisserie Elhorst include gluten-free options), and markets (don’t miss the cheese market for a true Dutch spectacle). We hired bicycles from Pesie for an easy trip on well-marked paths through beautiful pine forest and the Schoorlse Duinen (Dunes) nature reserve before heading back to town via a well-deserved ice-cream on the beach at Bergen aan Zee.
Nicola

SAIF ZAIB – (NORTHAMPTONSHIRE) – 61%

1,387 runs, average 66.04, six centuries, six half-centuries

Saif Zaib has been a beacon of light in a season of struggle for Northamptonshire.

Batting at number five, he has often been called upon to rescue a brittle batting line-up from which no other batter features in Division Two’s top twenty run-scorers.

He converted six of his 12 50-plus scores into three figures while also chipping in with 13 wickets with his slow left-armers.

The good news for Northants fans is he remains under contract until the end of the 2027 season.

TOM ABELL (SOMERSET) – 52%

1,022 runs, average 51.10, three centuries, five half-centuries

Though his side’s push for a maiden Division One title faltered in the final month of the season, 2025 was another fine year for Tom Abell.

A century in the penultimate round was his third of the campaign and saw him into four figures for the season with an average of more than 50.

The 31-year-old also helped his club to the T20 Blast title.

MARCUS HARRIS (LANCASHIRE) – 46%

1,027 runs, average 60.41, three centuries, five half-centuries

Former Australia Test batter Marcus Harris has had a year to remember after joining Lancashire.

The 33-year-old initially signed as an overseas for the Championship and One-Day Cup this summer but swiftly put pen to paper on a deal for another two years.

The former Leicestershire and Gloucestershire man – who has won 14 Test caps – made a blistering start, passing 800 runs in May, though his momentum did wane in the second half of the season as Lancashire were unable to mount a push for promotion from Division Two.

Having been part of the 2024 team, Glamorgan’s Colin Ingram was edged into fourth in the voting by Harris.

A walk and the best chips, Saint-Malo

The overnight ferry from Portsmouth to Saint-Malo is hard to beat. After work, we board the ship, enjoy a drink in the bar and wake up to the sunrise over the harbour. The scenic coastal path that runs along the Brittany coast winds through woodlands and secluded coves. A swim in the clear water and then on to the restaurant La Guinguette des Marmouz near Plouër-sur-Rance. The best chips we’ve ever had in a very laid-back spot along the estuary. We’d stumbled across something pretty special.
Kate

Hull to Rotterdam and North Sea camping

The cost of a P&O ferry from Hull to Rotterdam (starting at about £500 return for four people and a car) may seem steep, but so are four return flights and two nights in an airport hotel. We camped in our own tent at Camping Sollasi, a mile or two from the beautiful dunes. There were fresh croissants every morning and we were a short hop from bustling Noordwijkerhout, where every possible combination of cycles was available from Rent-A-Bike Van Dam. Truly memorable.
Martin

Fantastic holiday park near the Hook of Holland

Only 40 minutes from the Hook of Holland, where the ferry from Harwich goes, we found Landal de Reeuwijkse Plassen to be a great family-friendly holiday park with playgrounds, an indoor pool, a beach by the lake and plenty of watersports. It’s only a short bike ride or bus journey from Gouda, famous for its cheese but with a good town market and also the home of stroopwafels (syrup waffles). A great base for exploring the rest of the Netherlands.
James Melia

A gourmet break in Honfleur, Normandy

Take the ferry from Portsmouth to Le Havre, and drive 35 minutes to the beautiful, charming small city of Honfleur, which sits overlooking the mighty River Seine as it empties into the English Channel. My tip: spend a Saturday eating entirely from the city-wide market – Normandy cider, fizzing with crisp and juicy apples; the freshest oysters, shucked before your eyes and eaten right there and then; and topped off, of course, with the famous Normandy cheeses camembert and Pont-l’Évêque. It’s France at its best.
Aaron

Picos and tapas in Santander, Spain

Hop on a ferry from Plymouth to Santander (with a spot of whale watching en route). Twenty hours later, the rugged cliffs and crashing waves of northern Spain struck us as reminiscent of the Cornish coast, and temperatures were delightful – warm and sunny but not too hot. Despite its beauty and golden sand city beaches, fantastic seafood and tapas, Santander doesn’t feel particularly touristy. With easy access to the prehistoric El Castillo cave paintings, Picos de Europa national park and the bustling Bilbao, this is an ideal ferry break.
Eloise

Great scoff in Roscoff, Brittany

Roscoff, overnight from Plymouth, is a great destination in Brittany. The old town is lovely with a good boulangerie (open early, just as you get off the ferry) and an ancient harbour. We drove 40 minutes south-east to stay on the coast near Morlaix, another old town with an amazing viaduct, lovely bars, creperies and fantastic museums. Also nearby, at Barnenez, is the oldest and one of the largest burial cairns in Europe, an amazing place with panoramic views of the coast. Head to nearby Carantec for superb markets.
Ben Jennison-Phillips

Belle epoque is alive and well in Deauville

Deauville on the Normandy coast is just a short drive from Caen after a ferry crossing from Portsmouth. It’s an elegant, chic resort – similar to the riviera towns but without the hassle of a long drive to get there. Art deco cabins named after movie stars line the boardwalk behind the soft, sandy beach, which goes on for miles. Locals and Parisians enjoy promenading with parasols, so my husband and I joined them – and felt like we were in a gentle Renoir painting. Sunbathing and swimming are popular on the lovely beach, or you can shop and sip coffee in the town with its stylish belle epoque buildings in the background.
Gina

A whale of a time on the ferry to Bilbao

The ferry from Portsmouth to Bilbao is almost as fun as the holiday itself. With a journey time of around 30 hours, there’s plenty of time to relax and watch the Bay of Biscay go by (we saw whales and dolphins, as well as a beautiful Atlantic sunset). Once you arrive in Bilbao it’s fairly obvious you should check out the Guggenheim, wander the old town and eat pintxos. But it’s also really worthwhile to take a boat trip up the river to see where the urban regeneration stops and where there are reminders of the city’s industrial heritage.
Katie

The mini-Amsterdam with a buzz

Leiden – between the Hook of Holland and Amsterdam – is a fantastic destination easily reached by ferry, whether from Newcastle, Hull, Harwich or Dover. It offers everything Amsterdam does but on a smaller scale and with canals visitors can enjoy. It’s easily reached by road and rail, and has great places to stay, eat and enjoy. The mainly pedestrianised and historic town centre is beautiful, with a fantastic Saturday market along the canals. The large student population gives it a really nice buzz, all year round.
Ruud Jansen Venneboer

My teenage boys and I went from Newhaven, East Sussex, to Dieppe, Normandy, in late August. We found Dieppe to be a smart resort town with some great cafes, restaurants, history. Then it was on to Le Havre to catch the Ligue 1 football match between Le Havre AC and Nice. The home team’s club song is the same tune as God Save the King – chosen by the expat Brits who formed the club in 1872. The atmosphere in the Stade Océane was fantastic – we stood in the home end with the (friendly) ultras, waving flags and singing songs. Le Havre itself has incredible architecture, great shopping, culture, seafood and a decent beach.
James

Homestays run by women in Nepal

Nestled in the Kathmandu Valley, Nagarkot Community Homestay Network is a cornerstone for building businesses. It enables women to grasp financial independence by opening up their homes to tourists. It was an enriching cultural experience for both me and my host. Their support of each other spilled over during my stay, in their warmth, delight and genuine desire to share and learn.
Vicky Bamford

Fishing conservation in Mexico

I had the trip of a lifetime in Mexico and out in the Pacific, diving with some incredible creatures. We funded – and were joined on the trip by – two young women who were learning to dive with a charity called Héroes del Mar, which works with Mexican young people in fishing communities to raise awareness of conservation and how it can go hand in hand with fishing as an economic lifeline for rural areas. They should be able to gain a career in conservation, train the next generation in their community and ensure fishing benefits communities and wildlife.
Holly

Dolphin-watching in East Sussex

Sussex Dolphin Project runs some fantastic boat trips from Newhaven and Brighton marinas, including a wildlife sailing experience and a sunset cruise, on which you may be lucky enough to see dolphins. Trips are from £30 for adults and £19 for children. The Trust focuses on education, training and citizen science in the local community.
Ayesha Twyman

Giving peace a chance, worldwide

Not one trip but many – like thousands of others across the world, we are members of Servas, set up in 1949 as a volunteer-run NGO to build international friendships, and promote peace and understanding. We have learned about urban ecology in Nantes, self-sufficiency in Asturias and what it was like to live in Ceaușescu’s Romania, and met like-minded people who have become friends. We have also welcomed visitors from all over the world. Others who travel more widely than we do tell us about warm welcomes and fascinating experiences all across the globe.
Barbara Forbes

Time for tea in Sri Lanka

In the mountains on the outskirts of Kandy sit the lush hills that host the plantations of this famous tea-growing region. We visited our female hosts as they finished their eight-hour shift, for which they earn £20 a week for working six days and carrying 20kg a day on their backs. We visited their home close by, where we mixed spices, cooked our dinner and enjoyed a typical evening with several generations of the family. A truly authentic experience, steeped in the local culture, with our payment supporting and benefiting the entire community.
Julie Fell

Crofting and standing stones on Lewis

A small village in mainland terms, Carloway runs an annual agricultural show which attracts about 2,000 visitors to what is now the best window on crofting in the Western Isles. It’s located on the western fringe of Lewis, the most northerly island in the Outer Hebrides. The mixture of fete, Highland games, baking and fruit-and-veg competitions with best sheep, dog, horse and cattle show is all run by local volunteers. Held on the first Wednesday in August, it also has ceilidhs and Highland dance events through the week. There’s a community-owned shop, self-catering and bunks (Garenin village) – and it’s only a few miles from the world-famous Callanish or Calanais standing stones. You have to pinch yourselves at the privilege of listening to superb Gaelic singers while supporting their culture and community.
Foster Evans

Winning tip: Local hosts on an Alpine hike in Italy

We completed three weeks of the Grande Traversata delle Alpi, an 800km (500 mile) long-distance trek in the Italian Alps. It was conceived as an economic regeneration project in the 1970s to join up and provide tourism to tiny villages with ageing populations and declining industry. In each location, one or more providers elects to supply overnight accommodation and food to hikers; as a result the variety in our stays was immense. It cost €60-70pp pn for half-board, sometimes less in dormitories. It’s a very quiet trail compared with many in the Alps, and we often had it to ourselves. Villagers are really friendly and we enjoyed some delicious local food, always at least three courses, with vegetarians fully catered for.
Samantha McGrady

Winning tip: ebike tour of Sardinia’s west coast

We explored Sardinia’s wild west coast by ebike with Bosa Bike Experience, who had us whizzing up into vertiginous mountain villages with views of the sparkling azure sea, then back down in time for mirto spritz at a sunset bar right on the seafront. Then back into Bosa’s maze of colourful cobbled streets for delicious Sardinian specialities like seafood fregola, smoked ricotta and wine from local vines grown on volcanic soil. The nearby beaches were perfect – some family-friendly, others wild and deserted.
Emma

A spectacular Italian hotel beneath Sorrento’s cliffs

One of my favourite autumn escapes is the Hotel Admiral (doubles from about £140 B&B) snuggled into the cliff face of Sorrento. I would spend my mornings here dozing on warm black sand and swimming in the sea, pleasantly warm after having had summer to heat up. At about two o’clock, the sun retreats behind the cliffs, leaving afternoons for wandering a network of shady passages and rickety stairways that lead to charming restaurants and shops. Come evening, lambent orange lamplight cloaks the village in sleepy romance while wine taverns murmur Italian music. And, ever-present across the bay is looming, magnificent Vesuvius.
Catrina Conway

Cycling in the golden light of Tuscany

Lucca is a perfect late summer escape, bathed in golden Tuscan light and alive with cultural charm. Its tree-lined Renaissance walls invite leisurely bike rides, while the car-free old town offers tranquil strolls through winding alleys and piazzas. In September, the city glows during the Luminara di Santa Croce, a candlelit procession that transforms Lucca into a living artwork. Markets brim with seasonal produce, and nearby vineyards begin their harvest. Whether you’re savouring buccellato in a shaded cafe or climbing Torre Guinigi for rooftop views to the Apennines, Lucca blends serenity, history and sensory delight. It’s ideal for those seeking warmth without the crowds.
Catherine Taylor

The party boats have left Formentera – but not the sunshine

Ibiza’s quieter sister, Formentera, is bliss once the August party boats depart. By early September the heat has mellowed, but the sea still feels like silk. Hire a bike at La Savina, pedal along pine-scented lanes to the dazzling sands of Platja de ses Illetes, then linger over sunset paella at a chiringuito (beach bar) as flamingos swoop across the nearby salt flats. With most day-trippers gone, even the island’s lone lighthouse at La Mola feels yours alone, and off-season ferry deals from Ibiza make this pocket-sized paradise surprisingly gentle on the wallet.
Azeem

A French B&B that has the Lot

For a gentle late-summer escape, head to Le Relais du Chien Bleu (doubles from €80 a night), a hidden B&B on the Lot-Aveyron border. Set in a 19th-century townhouse, it serves superb vegan dishes (yes, in France!) made from local market produce. Stroll down to the Lot River, nibble figs straight from the trees, and wander the medieval streets of Capdenac-Le-Haut, while the nearby railway town of Capdenac adds historic charm. With fewer crowds and warm, attentive hosts, this is the perfect spot to savour the relaxed rhythms of rural southern France as summer eases into autumn.
Liam

Ancient island trails scented with thyme, Greece

For a blissful late-season escape, head to the Cyclades island of Sifnos a few hours on a ferry from Piraeus, Athens’ main port. The summer crowds have faded, but the sun still warms the quiet beaches and whitewashed villages. Enjoy fresh seafood at harbour tavernas, hike ancient trails scented with wild thyme, and join locals at gentle evening festivals. With lower prices and a slower pace, Sifnos reveals its authentic charm – perfect for unwinding before autumn truly arrives.
Sandra

Wander Roman ruins in Portugal’s Alentejo

The Alentejo basks in golden light well into late September and October. The region stretches from cork oak forests to wild Atlantic beaches, with daytime temperatures still hovering above 20C. In the whitewashed town of Évora, Roman ruins and quiet plazas invite slow wandering. Farther west, the coastline near Vila Nova de Milfontes offers warm surf and near-empty sands. Alentejo is languid and sun-drenched, a secret escape where summer lingers and time seems to pause.
Matthew Healy

Take the Tarragona train in Spain

Tarragona is really easy to reach by Eurostar, TGV, then local train from Barcelona. Self-catering accommodation in the old city centre is within apartment buildings that may well incorporate the ancient city walls or the foundations of the Roman circus and mean you can experience living like a local with narrow communal staircases and markets on your doorstep. Outdoor tables at restaurants are delightful well into autumn and the waves at the beach are still warm. Entrance to the amphitheatre is only €5 (beat that Rome!) where you can see surviving painted wall plaster.
Amy

Agritourism amid Ottoman splendour in Albania

The Unesco-listed town of Berat, nicknamed the “town of a thousand windows”, not only offers amazing places to see such as castles, Ottoman-era houses, museums and so on, but also it’s a perfect place for agritourism. If you want to experience harvesting fruits such as grapes and figs (Alpeta is one of the many vineyards and farms offering agritourism), then September is an ideal time to visit.
Gentian Agalliu

Stay on a rewilded nature reserve, south-west France

The sleepy woods of south-west France are wonderful for a late summer break. Stay near Limoges at Le Moulin de Pensol (gîtes from €60 a night), run as a nature reserve with plenty of rewilded land. Mushrooms take over from butterflies as the main September attraction, with the advantage that they stay still for photos. I walked miles along golden, leaf-lined trails in the Périgord-Limousin natural regional park. The annual chestnut festival at Dournazac completed the autumn package.
Rachel

Herring festival in The Hague

Despite its name, Flag Day (Vlaggetjesdag) in Scheveningen – a seaside resort close to The Hague – is actually more about fresh herring. Fishmongers bring in the first catch of the year in June, the hollandse nieuwe, and mark the start of the herring season with festivities, marching bands, wearing traditional costumes, and even an auction of the first vat of fish to raise money for charity. Don’t miss the chance to share a jenever (gin) with a Scheveninger, who will tell you how this year’s herring compares with last year’s.
Olivia

Flatbread heaven in Bosnia and Herzegovina

On the road from Sarajevo to Mostar, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, there is a small bakery in the town of Ostrožac called Pekara Centar. There, for less than a euro, you can enjoy lepinja with kajmak – a charred traditional flatbread made in a stone oven and filled with a rich, creamy spread from a local dairy. The bakery is on one of the most picturesque roads through the Neretva River canyon, making this delicious bite even more special.
AG

Catch of the day in Bavaria

In the beautiful surrounds of Chiemsee, southern Germany, my partner and I enjoyed a lunch of fresh fish at the family-run Chiemseefischerei Stephan, just west of the lake. With just a couple of options available on each daily menu, we didn’t have to faff around with a complicated order, and instead enjoyed the simplicity of the fish, rich potatoes, crisp salad and local Bavarian weissbier in the modern wood-panelled room. There was also Chiemsee sushi on the menu. I remember stepping out of the restaurant afterwards into the bright sunshine, hand in hand with my partner, mountains in the distance, and thinking: could life get any better?
Ellen

A mountainous feast in Kosovo

After scaling Kosovo’s highest peak, Gjeravica, Gacaferi Guest House provides delicious home-cooked food in an idyllic setting surrounded by mountains and shepherds herding flocks. Expect delicious byrek (savoury pastry), fergesë (Albanian red peppers and feta cheese), speca në ajkë (fermented peppers with yoghurt), and homemade cheese – all cooked over a wood fire and washed down with local rakia.
Ross Cameron

A brilliant kitchen garden in the Czech Republic

In the off-the-beaten-path Klatovy region of the Czech Republic’s south-west, I spent a few days driving around rolling countryside, climbing lookout towers and cooling off in rivers while looking out for kingfishers. The food scene was surprisingly excellent, with the highlight being Hospůdka U Štěpána, a fantastic restaurant near Sušice. A huge kitchen garden provides most of the produce, accompanying the wide range of different steaks from self-reared charolais beef. Fried courgette flowers followed by striploin in chimichurri sauce were some highlights in our August visit, along with the rustic vibe and more than fair price.
Enrico

My favourite pizza in Rome

Having tested a few pizza-piazza combinations in Rome, we enjoyed a pizza from Antico Forno Roscioli sitting on the kerb in Piazza Navona. It’s a 500-metre walk from the 19th-century bakery to the 15th-century public space (built atop the first-century Circus Agonalis). It’s the best pizza in Rome (in my humble view) and a relatively uncrowded and spectacular baroque spectacle of a square (oval?).
Daniel Becker

Gourmet cycling in the Netherlands

We caught the train to Groningen in the Netherlands and spent five days cycling its extensive paths. Every night we indulged in a four-course, fine-dining experience. Ginger soup or fried polenta with wasabi, local beef or salmon tartare followed by organic Dutch cheeses, and a liquorice sorbet with blackberry creams. Perfect after a 30-mile cycle ride, and a constant source of conversation.
Sophie

Jazz and open-air dining in rural France

We stumbled across the biodynamic vineyard La Guinguette du Domaine Gayrard in Virac, north-east of Toulouse, and found that not only did it produce some lovely wines but it also hosted a guinguette (open air dining from a simple menu with live music) during the summer months. We booked for dinner and were blown away. This gastronomic triumph was complimented by the most beautiful surroundings: we sat outside, looking over the vineyards as mellow jazz was played and the chef cooked our meal from a trailer. A truly unexpected gourmet experience.
Rachael

Honest hospitality in northern Italy

At Ca’Ordano in the hills of Monferrato, the tasting was simple but unforgettable. A glass of nebbiolo red wine came first with a simple plate of local salami and cheeses. Then, agnolotti pasta filled with roast beef, perfectly paired with a rich monferrato rosso. The visit was small-scale and personal, with no fuss or ceremony, just honest hospitality and food rooted in terroir – they’d hate me for calling it that, but it is what it is: a quiet, undiscovered corner of Piedmont with true flavours among the rolling hills.
Mariateresa Boffo

Winning tip: the old Crete ways are the best

In the hills west of Rethymno there is Atsipopoulo village, famous for Ta Souvlakia tou Gagani, a lovely restaurant sitting in a beautiful church courtyard. But a tiny restaurant called O Manolis, sitting in a less-illustrious location (the seating occupies empty parking spaces off the main street), embodies everything good about rural Crete. Deliciousness beyond description is produced in that restaurant and served with genuine Greek warmth. With no menu, Manolis serves whatever is harvested that day from his garden, declaring confidently it’s the greatest in Europe, or what he hunts and forages from the hills in the old Cretan way.
Rory Ferguson

Into a Finnish labyrinth

One of the most magical places I’ve been is Lake Saimaa in eastern Finland – a huge labyrinth of islands and tranquil forests where you don’t come across many people. We rented a lakeside cabin (typically they cost from about €100 a night, sleeping two) and watched the midnight sun shimmer across peaceful waters. Days were spent kayaking between uninhabited islets or hiking pine-scented trails, with only the call of black-throated divers (or loons) for company. We visited the Linnansaari national park on an archipelago in the middle of the vast lake (the largest in Finland and fourth largest freshwater lake in Europe), where encounters with rare Saimaa ringed seals await. It’s nature’s embrace at its purest – remote, quiet and utterly rejuvenating.
Anthony

Canyons and forests in Montenegro

Last autumn, I visited Durmitor national park in northern Montenegro, a quiet and beautiful place in the Dinaric Alps. The road there passed through thick pine forests and opened on to wide valleys surrounded by tall, rocky mountains. I walked to the Black Lake (Crno Jezero), where the water was so still it perfectly reflected the autumn colours of the trees. In the hills, shepherds looked after their sheep, and small villages sold fresh cheese and honey. I also gazed down into Tara River Canyon, which is among Europe’s deepest gorges; right at the bottom, several thousand feet below me, I could see the bright turquoise ribbon of the river.
Lorna Walkden

Cycling through the Bosnian countryside

My partner and I cycled the Ćiro trail in Bosnia Herzegovina. We picked up the trail in Ivanica and followed it for more than 80 miles to Mostar. It follows the route of the Dubrovnik to Mostar railway line, which closed in the 1970s, and has a lot of spooky, bat-filled tunnels. We barely met another person on the route. One night we camped overnight in a pub beer garden because we were worried about mines. Stunning scenery, spooky history, and we saw tortoises on the trail.
Anna Fenton

Pyrenean hideaway, Spain

If there was ever a jaw-dropping way to enter Spain it has to be over the peaks of the Pyrenees to the village of Ochagavía in Navarre. Nestled in the valley of Salazar, its cobbled streets and whitewashed homes are surrounded by rivers, forests and peaks where walkers mingle with birds of prey, chamois, marmots and an occasional hermit. When civilisation and replenishment are needed, Sidrería Kixkia, a restaurant in Ochagavía, will fill your very grateful tank with local cider and a very meaty menu.
Liz Owen Hernandez

Remote islands off northern Germany

We stayed at the charming seaside resort of Cuxhaven in Germany and took the horse-drawn carriage over mud flats to visit the tidal island Neuwerk with its extraordinary 700-year-old lighthouse. I’d also recommend a ferry trip beyond Neuwerk to incredible Heligoland island to see the 47-metre-high Lange Anna sea stack and the large gannet colony. You can see the craters left by the British in 1947 when the occupying authorities decided to blow up the remaining German military installations on the island in one giant explosion, having already bombed the island severely in 1945. Yet the tiny island with its red cliffs and grassy plateau survived somehow, and is now home to more than 1,000 people.
Sue Kyson

Kayaking between icebergs, Iceland

Starting in Reykjavík, with my 15-year-old, I took a rental car for a road trip, staying in small hotels and hostels on the way. We went kayaking between icebergs in the Jökulsárlón lagoon, snowmobiling and ice-climbing on the Sólheimajökull glacier and whale-watching near Húsavík. We were amazed to see the molten lava on the Reykjanes peninsula, as well as the interactive volcano museum near Vik. Highlights for my teen included taking a ferry to the island of Grímsey to snorkel with puffins while they were diving for fish.
Karen Guenzl

Brittany’s quiet side

Tucked away in western Morbihan, an hour from Vannes and the Breton coast, Inguiniel is a quiet corner of Brittany, where rolling hills and forests invite you to slow down. We stayed at picture-perfect Camping Pont Calleck, which was ideal as a walking and cycling base. From there we cycled to Le Faouët, a town with a pretty square, a 16th-century market hall, and striking gothic chapels. As evening fell, our ride took us along the River Scorff past weirs and watermills and eventually to a quiet auberge for a traditional Breton meal.
Kevin Atkins

Winning tip: bathed in constant daylight, Norway’s Svalbard

The Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard (which used to be called Spitzbergen) in summer is bathed in constant daylight because it is entirely within the Arctic Circle. Dog sledding on wheels is a great way to experience this remote landscape, guiding your teams of eager huskies over the tundra, past mountains necklaced with puffy Arctic cottongrass flowers. Boat trips, passing near the town of Barentsburg, the inhabitants of which are mostly Russian, allow closeup views of slumbering walruses, minke whales and dozens of seals. Nearby, huge cliffs at Alkhornet are the breeding ground for thousands of birds, and below the nests, arctic foxes wait patiently for their next meal. Afterwards, rent a floating sauna cabin, leaping into the sea to cool off.
Caroline

Winning tip: glorious north Wales circuit

Starting from the border town of Shrewsbury, a spectacular multiday circuit of north Wales is possible: take the Cambrian Coast line through Aberystwyth, Barmouth, Porthmadog, then the gorgeous Ffestiniog Railway to Blaenau, where you can link back to Llandudno on the coast, and return to Shrewsbury (change at Llandudno Junction). There’s no shortage of accommodation, allowing you to stop and explore without rigid planning. The Cambrian coast and the seaside towns are a largely unexplored jewel outside summer.
Dave Thomas

First-class trip to Romania

From Cluj we travelled through the snow-capped Carpathian mountains, stopping off to admire the historic Transylvanian cities of Sibiu and Brașov, before arriving at Bucharest’s chaotic Gara de Nord. The last leg of our journey took us eastwards to Constanța on the Black Sea. We arrived the day its stunning art nouveau casino was reopened after being rescued from dereliction. Romanian trains may not be the most luxurious or speedy, but with most of our journeys costing from £10 to £20 in first class, they are certainly value for money. Charmingly, at each station our train was greeted by a besuited stationmaster/mistress waving a flag to signal the train’s departure.
Brian Dutton

A day trip adventure around Edinburgh

For a delightful day trip I recommend taking the Scotrail service from Edinburgh to Cardenden, which takes just under an hour. Enjoy the view of Murrayfield with Edinburgh Zoo on the hill to the north. Soon you’ll see the Forth Bridge girders loom at Dalmeny before you fly over the Forth. Take in the stunning view east towards the Bass Rock, and look west past bridges towards Stirling and the Grampian mountains beyond. The ancient capital of Dunfermline is next, as you enter Fife. To the north of Cardenden you will see the peaks of the Lomond Hills regional park. An alternative route is to change at Inverkeithing on return and take a train up the Fife coast to Kirkcaldy, from where it’s a 50-minute ride back to Edinburgh. An unforgettable railway foray and respite from touristy Edinburgh.
Nigel Archdale

Taking it slowly from Stockport to Andalucía

We travelled from our home station of Stockport to Cádiz in southern Spain, stopping at London, Paris, Lyon, Barcelona and Seville en route. Not only was this a climate-conscious decision, but also a way to see more of Europe and to help us to relax and slow down. We took a river cruise in Paris, then the next day enjoyed lunch in Lyon where the local market place gave us a taste of the city. We next sped off to Barcelona, staying in the trendy neighbourhood of El Poblenou. From there we took in a panoramic view of the city from the castle of Montjuïc, followed by the bustling beach. Back on the train, our pace slowed again as we set out for Seville with its sweltering beauty and incredible history. Our final stop was Cádiz, where we saw the best sunset and sunrise. We wouldn’t be able to afford first class on a plane, but we could by rail. For example, Barcelona to Seville was under £60! We sipped wine as the beautiful landscape passed by, in a comfortable seat, with wifi and charging facilities, knowing there would be no wait for luggage at the other end.
Rebecca

Rome to Sicily via train and ferry

Hop on the sleeper train in Rome, or perhaps Naples, and wake the next morning in Sicily. There’s no bridge (yet) so the train is loaded on to a ferry for the crossing, while you are sound asleep in one of the functional little compartments. You can go direct all the way to Palermo or – if you prefer – to beautiful Syracuse in the south-east of the island.
Polly

Belgrade to Stari Bar by day and by night

We took the night train in a sleeper berth from Belgrade (after a few days exploring this cool, arty city) and were delighted by the old-school, velvety cabins with corridors and big open windows. We woke up to Montenegro and Albania’s stunning Lake Skadar. After a few days exploring the lake, Stari Bar and Montenegro’s beautiful coastline we headed back up to Belgrade by day – the mountainous scenery on this 11-hour journey is absolutely spectacular, and all for the round trip cost of €50. We used Man at Seat 61 to learn about the route.
Jenny

Interrail to Morocco via the gardens of Córdoba

In March 2025 we travelled to Morocco via train and ferry from the UK. Travelling on an Interrail ticket through Europe, we made two three-night stops on our way to the port in southern Spain, and two two-night stops on our return journey. On the outward journey we stopped in Girona and Córdoba, both of which have picturesque old towns. In Córdoba we visited eight stunning courtyard gardens as well as the Palace of Viana and the Mezquita, surely one of the most astonishing buildings in the world. On the return leg we stopped in Málaga and Montpelier, both characterful places. We would have missed out on these four wonderful destinations if we had flown directly to Marrakech.
Louise

Anywhere in Belgium for €8.50

Last year, my wife and I explored Belgium by rail. We stayed in a self-catering apartment just a few hundred yards from Antwerp station, a fantastic cathedral to the railways containing several pink granite columns and panels, polished in our home town of Aberdeen. In Belgium over-65s can buy a day return to anywhere in the country for just €8.50! We visited several towns and cities, none involving lengthy journeys. On our travels we discovered the Unesco-listed begijnhoven of Flanders. These were medieval communities for widows or unmarried women, many now beautifully restored.
Jim Fiddes

Beach, mountains and gastronomy in France

My wife and I have travelled around a lot of Europe but our best trip for simplicity is a triangle of France: Eurostar to Paris, then the TGV to Toulouse for saucisse and architectural and historical delights; next, the slow train to Bayonne, gazing at the Pyrenees as the train trundles past Lourdes and on to the French Basque coast; before taking the TGV back up to Paris. City, gastronomy, mountains and beach all in one.
George

Laid-back vibes on the line to Ljubljana

Our trip began with the sway of a boat gliding into Venice. After days getting blissfully lost in quiet alleys and forgotten courtyards, we boarded the train from Santa Lucia station, speeding across the shimmering lagoon to Trieste. In a sunlit square, we savoured chocolate gelato, the Mediterranean sparkling nearby. Next, Ljubljana welcomed us with its laid-back vibes. We sipped cocktails in jars by the river, surrounded by art and colour. Finally, a graffiti-covered train carried us to Lake Bled, where we hiked and swam beneath the majestic Julian Alps, ending our journey in a cosy pod under stars and amid fireflies.
Alex

Slovenia’s raft of adventure activities

Slovenia! We started in Lake Bled. Teens loved the Dolinka ziplines, the summer toboggan run, hiking in Vintgar gorge and swimming in Lake Bled. You can hire paddleboards and boats. If you have the money, there is rafting and canyoning too. After seeing the incredible Postojna cave, we went up the Vogel cable by Lake Bohinj. Half-board at the Bohinj Eco hotel kept the teens amply fed and it also has an aquapark, bowling and plenty of games to boot. We finished the trip off with shopping in Ljubljana and the best ice-cream ever at Romantika. Three happy teenagers.
Sue

All aboard in the Netherlands

Our favourite family holiday was to the Netherlands: taking turns playing captain guiding electric hire boats on canals; tilting our ice-cream cones at windmills at Zaanse Schans; cycling to the broad, clean beaches for mocktails in cabanas; Amsterdam for the colourful Pride parade counterpointed by a quiet, calming visit to De Poezenboot (which teen could resist a cat sanctuary on a canal boat?). And staying in Haarlem in an apartment with speedy wifi kept the teens happy while we indulged in morning strolls through medieval cobbled streets to Grote Markt for coffee and people-watching.
Annette

An Italian castle at hostel prices

When I saw the picture of Ostello il Castello di Santa Severa in the Guardian in 2019, I thought it was too good to be true, but it’s genuine. We have been twice with our teens, and sent friends too! A mile-long beach where teenagers can roam and paddleboard, an easy train journey to explore Rome, lunchtime pizza slices with locals cheering on the footie at L’Angolo delle Crepes. Plus the opportunity to sleep in a castle at hostel prices. Fluffy white towels aplenty, but also a gleaming kitchen if you want to cook. Don’t miss the nearby necropolis for an Indiana Jones-style adventure. Fireworks over the castle and a hilarious Italian Beatles cover band were the ciliegina sulla torta!
Margaret

Dracula and bear-spotting in Romania

The best European trip with my teen (so far) has to be Romania. We stayed in Brașov, booked an apartment with a pool and had the best time. There is so much to do and lots of easy public transport. We ate outdoors at little cafes on the street, took a cable car up the mountain, went on a trip to see bears in the forest (up close and personal!), had a tree-top adventure at Adventure Park and visited Dracula’s castle. The town itself is historic and beautiful, and the people are so welcoming. It’s not your typical British tourist destination but it makes for a fabulous adventure.
Kate

When in Rome … take a Vespa tour!

Rome in October half-term. Coliseum and Forum tours gave the right balance of interesting history, fun facts and a bit of gore that most teenagers would be entranced by! Walked a lot without seeming to walk a lot. A two-hour Vespa tour was the highlight. You hang on to the drivers and they negotiate the traffic, show you a different Rome with local knowledge and attitude. To complete the adventure: guaranteed great food, gelato and, for weary parents of an evening, vino cheapo!
Ruth

Austria’s Alpine summer wonderland

Saalbach-Hinterglemm in Austria in the summer meant hiking, ebiking and waterparks. Take advantage of the Joker card for free or reduced-price access to lots of activities. Hire a car to make the most of local resorts with lakeside beach clubs, alpine zoos, glacier visits and summer toboggan runs. Plenty to keep teens entertained.
Hilary

An epic train journey across Europe

Last summer I went with my two children on a trip north through Scandinavia, then back via the Baltic countries. This turned into an epic 5,000-mile train journey, which we each took part in planning. The 10-year-old’s focus was on cycling, swimming, play parks and cat cafes. The 14-year-old took us to the KGB headquarters in Riga, a tour around Berlin, and a visit to the Deyrolle taxidermy shop in Paris. By handing over some planning and responsibility to the kids, I could relax; they were engaged in activities away from their devices and their geography knowledge improved!
Sarah Patel

Cosmopolitan and exotic Antwerp

Antwerp by Eurostar was perfect. Coffee and buns at Pakt every morning, cool galleries like MoMu and Fomu every day, kilo vintage shopping, art nouveau streets, incredible Korean, Vietnamese and Nepalese restaurants, and bikes! Perfect October break.
Georgia

Postcard from the edge of Belleville, Paris

A brief holiday for us this year with our 15-year-old son but it was plenty – five nights in a gorgeous apartment on the edge of Belleville, Paris, not far from Buttes-Chaumont. He’s the age where we can enjoy both Disneyland and then take in the Hockney retrospective at the stunning Fondation Louis Vuitton. Back at base we watched city life unfold from our French windows and then sampled Lebanese, Laos and French meals in the bustling streets around. Nearer to town, the family-run Eats Thyme is a standout.
GingerGigolo

Winning tip: Oompah and cable cars in Bavaria

A two-centre holiday to Munich and Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Bavaria, Germany, is a must with teenagers as there is so much to see and do. In Munich they loved the atmosphere in the beer halls – eating pretzels and listening to the oompah band and watching the Rathaus-Glockenspiel in the square. A visit to the Olympiapark is also recommended. In Garmisch-Partenkirchen there is a toboggan run, which is great fun, and nearby is the beautiful Zugspitze mountain and cable car, with boating on Eibsee lake. Bavaria has plenty to keep teenagers entertained and active, for a very enjoyable holiday.
Richard Watkins

Spain is by far the most popular country among UK travellers, with close to 18 million of us visiting in 2023 — far more than the 9.2 million who took a trip to second-place France

“The message we are receiving loud and clear from locals, especially in the islands and where we usually visit in Andalucia, is that we should stay away and are not welcome.”

That is how Mirror reader Allan Wilcox feels. He, like millions of Brits, is a regular visitor to Spain. In fact, Spain is by far the most popular country among UK travellers, with close to 18 million of us visiting in 2023 — far more than the 9.2 million who took a trip to second-place France.

While it would be absurd to suggest that the country’s love affair with Spain and its incredible culture, food and drink, spectacular weather, and general good vibes is over, there is undeniably a groundswell of frustration at a shift in attitude on the Iberian Peninsula. This comes amid a warning about the quality of breaks in Benidorm.

READ MORE: Spanish beach bars demand urgent action as they reveal cost of Brits staying awayREAD MORE: Spain holidays warning for Ryanair passengers as strikes set to hit 12 major airports

A lot of Brits have taken overtourism protests to heart, heeding the words of campaigners who say that mass tourism is killing the culture of destinations including the Canaries and the Balearic Islands; the strident messages slapped on walls by graffiti artists; and the actions of protesters who squirted holidaymakers in Barcelona.

Each week many of them email in to the Mirror’s travel desk ([email protected]) to share their views on trips to Spain and whether they’re still planning holidays in the country of 48 million.

Although it would be unfair to suggest that their views are completely typical of the UK population at large, particularly given the small sample size, a clear anti-Spanish holiday sentiment has emerged.

Sarah Meager has been particularly frustrated by new laws that prohibit smoking and vaping on terraces. She was dismayed to discover that the law covered private terraces when it comes to holiday villas and hotels.

“We discovered this in Lanzarote in February. You are not even allowed on the terrace of your own room. It is a ridiculous decision. Even if only one member of a group smokes it means you just can’t relax and enjoy yourself,” she explained.

Kevin Durkin is a committed Spain holidaymaker, having visited the country many times over a 30-year period. “Over the last few years, the anti-British sentiment has just grown. Some bar owners have put up signs telling the British to keep away and some hotel owners don’t want us either,” he said.

“I do not need Spain, they can keep their latest charges and hatred of the British. I will not be back, neither will my friends or family. Adios.”

Kevin, who speaks Spanish and moved to the country several years ago, admitted that most of the ire from locals was directed towards “the loud British element, usually fuelled by alcohol”, and that respectful tourists were unlikely to be bothered.

For Linda Munro, overcrowding was a major issue. She flew into Majorca, where the airport has been struggling with long queues this summer. “Border control is very, very stressful and must be putting families off,” she recalled.

“My husband and I got through the scanners, no problem. However, the rest of the family had to queue for an hour and a half. On the way back, it was worse, as people were worried they might miss their flights home. Our family just made it on time. They all said they wouldn’t be back abroad anytime soon.”

Allan Wilcox is a committed visitor of Spain and is “happy to spend our money supporting local businesses. These include restaurants, bars, hotels and shops.” Since overtourism protests began however, he has started to feel unwelcome.

“The message we are receiving loud and clear from locals, especially in the islands and where we usually visit in Andalucia, is that we should stay away and are not welcome. Since the local feelings appear so strong and tourists have to run the gauntlet of being shouted or spat at or have to endure intimidating protests, we are no longer happy to visit the country under these conditions,” Allan said.

“Consequently, we have decided to holiday elsewhere and have not visited Spain for the past couple of years.”

How do you feel about taking a holiday to Spain? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Please email [email protected]

White sand, dark past on the German Baltic

Spend some time on Rügen, Germany’s largest island, on its Baltic coast. White sandy beaches and darker history await. Visit Lauterbach, by the sea. From there, catch the coastal ferry to the tiny fishing village of Baabe, a near three-mile (5km) walk/cycle through rolling countryside and catch the “Raging Roland” steam train back again. Not far away, you can walk the cliffs that inspired Caspar David Friedrich. For a very different day, visit Prora and its massive beachside concrete apartment blocks, originally planned as a Nazi holiday complex, before becoming a Soviet army barracks, and now a part ruin, part reunification commercial and residential redevelopment.
Richard

Deserted beaches on the Danish Riviera

Who needs the scorching Med when you have the Danish Riviera. The water is clean and refreshing. No wetsuits allowed – you’ll be laughed off the beach. Danish summer hols are in July so you’ll have the beach to yourself in August. Book a summer cottage near Gilleleje, a charming fishing village about an hour from Copenhagen. Denmark is expensive, so self-catering is best. Ice-cream at Hansens. Lunch in Gilleleje harbour. Culture at Louisiana modern art museum and Hamlet’s Castle in Helsingør. And day trips to Copenhagen.
Christina

To Hel and back in Poland

Hel is a tiny spit of land north of Gdańsk. Guys selling hot smoked fish meet you as you get off the ferry. Getting there is an adventure in itself, as the ferry takes you past the colossal cranes of Gdańsk’s shipyards. Long sandy beaches, pine forests and a small picturesque village make Hel a fantastic place to spend a few days. Famous for its seals, as well as its seaside, it really is the opposite of its fiery namesake.
Lucy Moore

Swimming and seafood in Sweden

We’ve just returned from a Scandi road trip and had four fantastic, chilled nights on Björkö. It’s only 30 minutes from central Gothenburg by (free!) car ferry and regular buses. Great swimming and beaches; micro breweries and fresh fish; sunsets and sunrises to die for; days out in Gothenburg, including the excellent Liseberg theme park, with no queues for proper scary rides – highly recommended.
James

Rowing in Finland’s Åland archipelago

Fuelled by our kids’ love of flags and a craving for quiet, we chose Åland, thousands of islands scattered between Sweden and Finland like granite gods wept there. We cycled between clouds and old boat sheds, stopping for smoked herring and cardamom pancakes with stewed prunes (sexier than it sounds). By the time Ivar lent us ancient alder oars to row to the next island, knowing they’d be returned by a friend, we’d learned that Åland doesn’t welcome visitors – it absorbs them.
Eliza Ainley

Cliff-edge drama in north-west Spain

Based in Oviedo (the ideal compact city), in Asturias, we would explore the coast one day, mountains the next, finding unexpected Gaudí buildings, gingerbread houses in Ribadesella, amazing cemeteries on cliff edges, enjoyable easy driving on perfect roads, gorgeous unspoilt beaches and great weather! Few tourists, thousands of Camino pilgrims along the way and (very weak) cider! Cannot wait to return and yes, we’d love to live there.
Annie Hargreaves

An idyllic island off Brittany, France

Camping Panorama du Rohou, near Paimpol in northern Brittany, has excellent views over to the beautiful Île de Bréhat. Walk down through the forest behind the campsite to take a short ferry ride to the island. Hire a bike or walk to explore its rocky coves and quaint villages. A lighthouse at the far end of the island has great views and is a good spot for a picnic, or to have a Breton galette or crepe at nearby Paradise Rose. Les Scènes de Bréhat is an annual festival with live music at the beginning of July; late-running ferries get you back to the mainland.
Stella

Arctic beach holiday, Norway

When we booked a trip to northern Norway’s stunning Lofoten Islands and Andøya we didn’t expect a beach holiday, but blessed with August temperatures in the high 20s we spent days swimming in the Arctic Ocean. Bleik beach on Andøya is one of the longest in Norway – “bleik” means “white” or “pale” in Norwegian, and the almost empty white sand, coupled with refreshing blue sea and the towering cliffs behind the beach, made for a perfect end to a day’s hiking. Puffins abound here, and whale watching trips are available from Andenes, just a few miles to the north.
Rachel

Seafood and sailing in Hanko, Finland

Hanko, Finland’s southernmost seaside gem, sits on a sandy dune that stretches out into the Baltic Sea. The town comes alive in early July during the celebrated Hanko Regatta, a sailing festival that draws about 200 yachts. To reach Hanko from Helsinki, take the VR train from Helsinki Central for about €15. Rent a bike once you arrive to explore the sandy beaches bordered by an ancient pine forest, historic villas and nature reserve. In the evening, enjoy fresh seafood with Baltic views and sit down for a pint of Lonkero. Don’t miss the spa scene and wild swimming!
Liina

Winning tip: Bike to the beach in North Holland

Aan Noordzee campsite, on the North Holland coast, has a simple, tranquil feel and no entertainment facilities. With separate cycleways everywhere, you can explore the beautiful coastline up to Den Helder and, by ferry, Texel island (sandy beaches, pretty towns and robust Texel sheep). An unspoilt beach walkable from the campsite awaits, with dune footpaths that lead to restaurants built on stilts. The sunsets over the North Sea are stunning. Alkmaar is accessible via a regular bus service.
Nicola Hull

During last month’s heatwave I was lucky to cool off at an outside table at the Mayfly on the River Test near Stockbridge. Sipping a refreshing pint while leaping trout splashed in the water gave the scene a feel of the perfect English summer day. There’s a nearby weir, and forests and fields stretch into the distance. The pub has friendly staff, plenty of tables and a river-based menu including “brown butter chalk stream trout fillet” (£20.50) plus pub classics. If the setting inspired you as it did me, there are vineyards nearby to explore and the timber-framed village of Wherwell is just a stroll along the towpath.
Joe

A celebration of Hull’s maritime history

The Minerva stands at the entrance to Hull’s trendy marina and has fantastic views over the Humber estuary. It opened in 1829 and is decorated with pictures, photos, maps and shields that celebrate Hull’s maritime history. “The snug” can only fit two people and is claimed to be the smallest pub room in the UK. The staff are brilliant and there’s an ever-changing selection of guest ales.
Rob

Warrington’s most serene pub

The Ferry Tavern is a family-run pub that stands proud on its own island between the River Mersey and the Sankey to St Helen’s canal. Although it feels worlds away from nearby built-up areas, it’s easily accessible, and best approached on foot or by bike, sitting right on the Trans-Pennine trail. The beer garden stretches along the riverbank, and nursing a pint of ale on a summer evening while looking out across this tranquil section of the Mersey with all its birdlife is serenity. The 300-year-old tavern is all cosy low ceilings and wooden beams, perfection for the Sunday pub quiz, while Foodie Fridays attracts locals to themed cuisine from Mexican to Greek. The rest of the week, however, hot food is not served.
Matt Lunt

A grand pub on the Grand Union canal in Warwickshire

The 18th-century Blue Lias is a lovely family-run pub on the peaceful banks of the Grand Union canal in the heart of the verdant Warwickshire countryside. It beckoned me towards its outside beer garden as I strolled along the canal with its vibrant flower baskets hanging outside and the welcoming sound of friendly chatter from fellow walkers sipping ale. The pub is named after the clay that’s quarried in the area and offers a beautiful, calm ambience on a summer’s day with many people arriving on foot or by narrowboat.
Gina

Oozing history in Cornwall

The Pandora Inn, on the banks of Restronguet creek between Truro and Falmouth, is a fantastic place to watch the world go by. Parts of the pub date back to the 13th century and the flagstone floors and thatched roof ooze history. But for me, the main attraction is the pontoon reaching out into the creek – the perfect place to watch wildlife and the regular clientele arriving by smallboat and kayak. Plus, the cheesy chips are to die for!
Matt Croxall

Just wading birds for company, Cumbria

One of the best beer gardens and all-round views in the country must be at the Bay Horse on the outskirts of Ulverston. The pub-hotel sits where the Ulverston canal meets the tidal estuary of the River Leven – an idyllic spot between the vast otherworldly expanses of Morecambe Bay and the soaring mountains of the Lake District. Being out of town, it’s often quiet with only wading birds and the odd train for company. Being just outside the national park means the prices are also more Cumbrian (cheap) than at tourist traps in the Lakes.
Michael

A step ahead in north Devon

The Tarr Farm Inn in Exmoor is in a secluded valley right by Tarr Steps, an ancient clapper bridge across the River Barle. It’s a fantastic spot for a dog walk and a pint of local cider while the kids paddle in the stream. The inn dates from the 1600s and serves outstanding food (it was once chosen to provide the VIP catering for Glastonbury festival).
Jen

The herons of Cambridge know a good pub

The Granta overlooks the Mill Pond and Sheep’s Green by the River Cam, and, despite being less than half a mile from the city centre, has countryside pub vibes. During the summer, cows may wander freely on the other side of the pond – old grazing rights are still utilised on Cambridge’s commons. Moorhens, mute swans and herons are regular neighbours, the latter often statue-like at the water’s edge. The pub’s terrace offers a chance to relax with a drink while watching over this watering hole. There’s even the chance of a cameo in cobalt from a passing kingfisher: an alternative Cambridge blue.
Sharon Pinner

Watering hole by south London’s River Wandle

The William Morris at Merton Abbey Mills in Colliers Wood, south London, is a super-friendly pub next to the River Wandle. There is regular live music, lovely independent shops, and children can watch a watermill and learn about water energy. Although there is lots of traffic not too far way, the actual pub, named after the 19th-century textile designer, is a fab watering hole where you can almost forget about London. A short walk away is the National Trust’s Morden Hall Park – you could whet your appetite by going there first.
Asa

Winning tip: Aire of excitement in Leeds

Piglove by the River sits in the Leeds’ Climate Innovation District on the River Aire. It’s not just the name that enchants. Owned by two Venezuelans who say they are inspired by the UK’s craft beer tradition, Piglove offers small-batch beers brewed on site, rotating weekend street-food trucks, and a programme of tone-perfect events: quiz nights, spoken word, post-run cool-downs, pride marches, and jazz if you time it right. There’s a greengrocers, mismatched benches, and the sense that something slightly bonkers might happen at any moment. It’s walkable from the city centre, waiting for you to be seduced by the hum of Friday-night gatherings or the scent of pizza wafting over the sunlit water.
Eliza Ainley

Capri without the crowds, Italy

Procida, in the Bay of Naples, is not as famous as nearby Capri and Ischia, but is all the more appealing for it. Not a tourist trap but an island where people actually live, it’s a delightful slice of unhurried Italian life. The island is small enough to be explored on foot or by bicycle, though there is a bus service too. There are many pretty little beaches for swimming, sunbathing and picnicking – our favourite was Il Postino, where scenes from the movie of the same name were filmed. As people still fish for a living, there’s no shortage of wonderfully fresh seafood in the restaurants. A local delicacy is lemon salad, made from the enormous, thick-skinned lemons unique to Procida. Villa Caterina B&B’s orchard of lemon and orange trees provides fresh juice and marmalade for breakfast, and the rooms have wonderful views of the island and the bay, with Vesuvius looming in the distance and Naples only 45 minutes away by ferry.
Bernie G

Seafood and sunshine in Sweden

When life gets too much, I dream of Styrsö in the Gothenburg archipelago. Big open skies, nature trails and heaps of swimming spots make this car-free island the perfect summer escape. It’s topped off by a brilliant seafront restaurant, Tångbaren, where you can have a plateful of fresh seafood and a cold glass of wine, and watch the sea bob away.
Hannah

Tranquillity among the dunes, Germany

I was 21, living in Germany for a year to improve my language skills, and decided on a whim to visit the tiny East Frisian island of Spiekeroog (yes, it was the fantastic name that first attracted me to the place). I spent a happy couple of nights at the Hotel Inselfriede, a small family-run hotel just a 10-minute walk from where the ferry arrives from the mainland. The island is car-free and a beautifully peaceful place to explore the dunes or simply sit with a coffee and watch the sea.
Lizzy

A Balearic beauty

Sa Dragonera is a tiny but utterly beautiful uninhabited island that lies just south-west of Mallorca in the Balearics. It is brimming with history (there are 18th-century watchtowers built to observe pirate activity). Supposedly named after the lizards that inhabit it, the island is a hugely popular walking and birding spot, and is only accessible by small ferries from the nearby Sant Elm. It is best to go first thing to beat the heat and pedestrian traffic – you won’t regret it when you see the views from the top.
Tom

A tiny Greek island with great beaches

Everyone knows that Greece has some of the most beautiful Mediterranean islands. But few foreign tourists have heard of Kythira and that’s just the way the locals like it. For most of the year only about 3,500 people live on the island. In summer, however, thousands of Greeks come for holidays, many back to homes that have been in their family for generations. There are no major tourist resorts – it’s a Greek island rich in history and tradition, with dozens of beautiful beaches.
Andy Moffat

Explore old world Ireland in Galway Bay

Inisheer (or Inis Oírr), one of the three spectacular Aran Islands in Galway Bay, is my favourite small island by far. The ferry from Rossaveel on the mainland takes just under an hour, but you feel as if you’ve been transported back in time – this is a tiny island of stone walls, fishing boats, old cottages, and more ponies and traps than cars. You can walk or cycle across the island in an afternoon to explore shipwrecks and ancient ruins. At the end of the day, enjoy some traditional music in the charming pub. You can camp almost on the beach for a good price.
Eleanor

Peace (and sheep) in the middle of Helsinki

Kuusiluoto is a gem in the heart of Helsinki, only reachable on foot across rickety wooden duckboards that make it feel like you’re walking on water. Setting foot on the island, you’ll meet a welcoming committee of friendly sheep. The only indication you’re in a bustling European capital is the skyscrapers across the water. To get to Kuusiluoto, start from the city’s technology museum (itself well worth visiting, and just a short bus journey from the city centre) and walk a couple of miles along well-marked paths through reed beds. The island has a sauna, woodland trails, free postcards and those most valuable attributes – peace and quiet.
Arran

Snorkel in the coves of Silba, Croatia

I didn’t know much about Silba before I arrived – it’s a small, car-free island with no hotels, just family-run guesthouses. The catamaran from Zadar takes roughly 90 minutes, with several sailings a day during summer. Once there, you can walk on shaded paths through olive groves, find quiet pebble coves with clear water for swimming, and climb the Toreta tower at sunset for great views of the Adriatic. My tip: bring a snorkel, stay at least two nights, and make sure you book your return ferry in advance as the schedules are limited.
Elaine

Stunning vistas in Scotland’s Hebrides

On the community-owned Isle of Eigg, the constantly changing light is so enthralling that you don’t need to do anything else during your stay but say “Look!” and point out beautiful variations of rainbows, sunbursts or cloud formations. Stay at the Laig Beach Bothy and gaze out of the beautiful big windows at the sky, sea and mountains. As Virginia Woolf wrote: “One should not let this gigantic cinema play perpetually to an empty house.”
Anna

Winning tip: France’s wild west

The island of Ouessant (Ushant) is the most westerly point of metropolitan France. It’s a short ferry ride from the mainland, and as wild as it gets. Visit for a day as part of a longer holiday, or stay on the island for your entire trip. You can hire bikes as soon as you step off the ferry. There are beautiful beaches, such as Plage du Prat; impressive lighthouses; and bars and restaurants in the main village of Lampaul.
Airelle

Winning tip: meadow birdsong by the beach in Pembrokeshire

For 28 years we have been going to West Hook Farm in Marloes, Pembrokeshire, to camp. The farm has some lovely showers and toilets, and nothing else apart from beautiful fields full of meadow grass. The swifts and swallows dart along the top of the grass to eat bugs at dawn and dusk. All day long you can hear beautiful birdsong from birds such as skylarks. The fields run alongside the beautiful coastal path, which has a hedgerow full of wildflowers and birds. This is the most beautiful place on Earth (when it isn’t raining). The numerous beaches are full of soft white sands. Our children have grown up playing free in the fields on their yearly holiday – no computers, just outdoor fun.
Em

Hiking a Highlands mountain

For a true taste of the Scottish Highlands, head to Ballater and hike the 1,155-metre (3,789 ft) peak of Lochnagar in the Grampians. The trail winds through pine forests and open moorland, the air crisp and alive. Be ready for the weather to change like pages in a book: sunshine, sudden rain, a flurry of snow on the summit, then blue skies again. On the way down, slip into the river, its water sharp as ice. Pack layers, bring snacks and take your time. It’s a walk that stays with you long after you leave the mountain behind.
Eva

Walking the Cotswold Way – inspired by Laurie Lee

After a family reading of Laurie Lee’s As I Walked Out One Midsummer Morning, my husband and I decided our two teens were ready to try a walking holiday in the Cotswolds. We set out with backpacks and a tent on the Cotswold Way, starting just outside lively Chipping Campden and ending in Bath. Mobiles were limited to an hour a day in the evening and we did 10 miles a day – covering the walk in 10 days. We felt we were a part of a community of walkers as fellow hikers greeted us in passing, sharing drinks and tips with us along the way. We also learned about the Japanese idea of shinrin-yoku – feeling free in nature under the canopy of trees, sky and stars – from a family from Tokyo. We returned fitter, more together and happier than when we set out.
Ann

Forests and folklore in the Carpathians

Following a brilliant solo back-to-nature trip to the Carpathian mountains in Romania two years ago, I talked my two teenage boys into a family repeat earlier this summer – dangling the carrot of a trip to Count Dracula’s castle. In fact I only needed some minor encouragement from the vampire; the area itself was my ally. The forests, flanked by brooding mountains, were exciting to hike through anyway (with the help of a local guide), with the presence of brown bears, wolves and lynx adding to the thrills as we marched along. We came across medieval towns and villages that are rich in traditional folklore. One highlight was sampling local cheese and singing songs with villagers in the Bârza valley. The boys were rewarded with a ride on a horse-drawn cart to the next village, near Dracula’s alleged abode – Bran Castle. Don’t miss the stiff climb up to Postăvarul peak (1,799 metres) for great views over the area.
Joe

Where Austria’s hills are alive

Salzkammergut is the Austrian lake district. Lush meadows, forests and blue-green lakes make for endless days of swimming, biking and lying in the sun. No wonder that The Sound of Music was filmed here. Wolfgangsee has well-marked bike trails and opportunities to swim, alongside cafes serving delicious kaiserschmarrn (fluffy pancakes) and schnitzel. The nearby Fuschlsee has an incredible water park right by the lake: swimming pools, slides and plenty of quiet water in which to swim. It’s excellent entertainment for the entire family. We stayed in the newly renovated Feichtingerbauer, which offers complimentary access to the Fuschlseebad.
Neha

Paddleboarding in County Derry

By the end of the summer in 2021 we were at the end of our tether due to lockdowns and the lack of socialising opportunities. The kids had never been so quiet. My good friend Bob insisted we join his family at Swanns Bridge in County Derry for a paddleboard trip. Swanns Bridge is only a few minutes’ drive from the Atlantic beaches of Benone, but it makes use of the River Roe, rather than the ocean. After 20 minutes of trying to stay upright, something happened. For the first time in over a year we were distracted by something positive and by the beauty of the Roe. The only sound was water (mostly me falling in) and laughter. We’ve gone back since to be distracted for different reasons. It still works.
Kieran

Trigbagging in the Peak District

Try trigbagging with the kids. Be it a weekend in the Peak District or Monday to Friday in the Lake District, it doesn’t have to cost a lot. You can pitch a tent in a campsite or get cheap accommodation in a youth hostel. My kids love scrambling up the hills, paddling in the streams that flow down them, spotting the ground-nesting birds, and tucking into the snacks that come with hiking. It teaches them so much about nature and personal safety, as well as about how quickly the weather can change in such places.
Rebecca

Searching for buried treasure on Ynys Môn (Anglesey)

Our best back-to-nature day out? A spontaneous treasure hunt through the dunes of Newborough beach on Ynys Môn (Anglesey). There’s no admission fee needed – just a hand-drawn pirate map, a flask of lemonade and plenty of imagination. The kids darted between marram grass and shoreline, hunting for shells and “buried treasure” (a biscuit tin full of sweets we’d hidden earlier). With views of Llanddwyn Island and a picnic under the pines, it was low-stress, big-memory magic. Just bring snacks, suncream and a good sense of adventure!
Robert Serebriakoff

Car-free and carefree on the Isle of Arran

We had a lovely summer holiday staying on a farm on the Isle of Arran. It’s the perfect car-free holiday for families, with a very easy train ride from Glasgow to the harbour [at the mainland ferry port of Ardrossan]. We stayed on the organic farm, picking our own fruit and veg then cooking it on our camping stove on the beach. The accommodation is right on the beach and on our first morning we stepped out and saw an enormous pod of dolphins. Our days were spent walking up and down the beach playing in rock pools. Absolute heaven! The owner of the farm, who used to work in a Michelin-starred restaurant, cooks fresh lobster and seafood most nights. You can watch him and his daughter going out on their kayak to make their daily catch.
Gemma

Rockpooling in East Sussex

One of our favourite trips out in nature is to the beach at Seven Sisters, East Sussex. The walk to get there is lovely – it’s flat and a good size for our boys to ride their bikes along. It’s beautiful, with the cliffs and rivers winding along, and there’s even a little empty building to look inside, which is very exciting for small children. When at the beach, there is so much to do, including wading across the part where the river joins the sea with a pretty decent current; rock pooling in crystal-clear waters; and, on a good day, there’s the sludgy sand to get filthy in! Bonus fun is had by watching walkers wade across the river to get to the cliffs, teetering on the painful rocks, as they don’t want to get their walking shoes wet; or by finding crabs in the rock pools; and seeing little islands made as the tide goes in and out. It’s extra fun if you win the competition to find the most interesting stone or find some treasured sea glass. Chalk is fun too, but common enough not to count as an entry into the competition.
Lauren

Sunrise with ancient gods in Anatolia

Rising from the rugged heart of Anatolia, Mount Nemrut offers one of the world’s most surreal sunrise experiences. Here, colossal stone heads of ancient gods and kings gaze silently across the highlands, remnants of a long-lost kingdom. As the first rays of dawn paint the statues gold, visitors are transported into an almost mythic realm. Begin your journey in Gaziantep, often called Turkey’s culinary capital. Savour rich baklava and spicy kebabs before setting out through the hills toward Nemrut. After experiencing the mountain’s majesty, continue to Göbekli Tepe – considered the world’s oldest temple complex, predating Stonehenge by millennia.
Ickin Vural

Join the locals and eat at a büfe

It’s become a little more expensive in Turkey recently, so my tip is: eat at the büfeler, where the taxi drivers eat. You find them at every bus station in every town and village. A light lunch of rice with kuru fasulye (beans) on top, perhaps a side of vegetable stew (despite all those kebab shops, Turkish people don’t eat as much meat as we like to think), and an ayran (yoghurt drink) on the side would be my idea of a perfect lunch. Afiyet olsun! (enjoy your meal), as they say in Turkey.
Anna

Exploring the vibrant city of Eskişehir

Eskişehir is a vibrant, studenty city less than an hour and a half’s train ride from Ankara. Its name (“old city”) is a clue to the age of the place – it was founded around 1,000BC – but unlike some of the much more visited ruins and ancient cities in Turkey, it is very much a forward-looking, 21st-century place. The Odunpazarı houses in the oldest part of the city are beautifully multicoloured – it is a perfect area to enjoy an obligatory Turkish coffee and piece of lokum (Turkish delight).
Michael Kuipers

Authentic Turkish charmers near Ephesus

Discover two gems near exquisite Ephesus: Alaçatı, on the coast near İzmir, is a picturesque, sleepy village complete with fresh fish restaurants and sandy beaches; a bit further south is Şirince, a beautiful flower village that stays fresh even through July heatwaves. You can explore the coast, visit thermal baths in spectacular Pamukkale, and Ilıca, or head to the Greek island of Samos for the day, while still savouring the joy of a simpler and more authentic Turkey.
Thomas

Lesser visited Lycian ruins around Kaş

Just above the popular seaside town of Kaş, tucked high in the hills, lie the ancient ruins of Phellos. The steep hike can be tough – especially in the heat – but the reward is worth it. Massive Lycian tombs and weathered stone ruins appear unexpectedly, like a scene from Indiana Jones. With no crowds or noise, it’s an off-the-beaten-track adventure into ancient history. If you’re seeking something beyond beaches and tourist spots, Phellos offers solitude, mystery and a stunning glimpse into a forgotten world.
Pinar Greenwood

Mardin’s heady mix and sweeping views

My top secret Turkey tip would be Mardin, in the south-east. Honey-coloured houses on a hilltop cascade down to the Mesopotamian plateau, and just about every hotel has a terrace with sweeping views across to Syria. The history is a mix of Assyrian, Armenian, Chaldean and, of course Turkish, with museums, medreses and narrow streets. It’s a taste of the Middle East but with the safety of travel in Turkey. And the food …
Ann Ozsivadjian

Chilled dining in Antalya’s waterside retreat

The Dim River lies on the outskirts of Alanya, in the Antalya region. A short taxi or bus ride will transport you from the bustling seaside town to a cascading waterfall which flows from the Taurus mountains to the Mediterranean Sea. Trees and natural vegetation provide shelter from the searing summer sun, while the waterside restaurants offer traditional Turkish food and drinks. Relax at tables nestled in the trees, perch at the water’s edge, or take a dip in a pool filled with icy mountain water – if you dare!
Natalie

Paddling off the Lycian coast from Fethiye

Sea kayaking along Turkey’s wild south-west coast from Fethiye is an unforgettable experience. Paddle past hidden coves, ancient ruins and dramatic cliffs, before friendly local guides prepare delicious traditional Turkish meals, and the sunsets glow deep red over crystal waters. Fethiye is a culturally rich town nestled between mountains and the sea, and the perfect launch point for a trip. If you’re after beauty, solitude and authentic connection, this is paradise.
Mikey

Hike to stunning ancient Termessos

We visited Antalya in February, and viewing some of the ancient sites on a crisp, sunny day with snow on the mountains in the background was brilliant. But the highlight of our trip was taking a hike in the Mount Güllük-Termessos national park to see the ancient Solymi city of Termessos, and particularly the stunning theatre, set atop the mountain with panoramic views. You pass many interesting ruins on the way up, but this is the jewel in the crown. We went on our own, but if you want to make a day of it I’d suggest joining a hiking group for an in-depth exploration.
Alison

Winning tip: timeless charm at Akyaka

On a spontaneous road trip through Turkey’s south-west, I stumbled upon Akyaka – a peaceful, pine-fringed village untouched by mass tourism. The Azmak River, so clear it seemed unreal, flowed past riverside cafes where I watched turtles drift by. Locals welcomed me like family, and evenings meant fresh seafood and golden sunsets. The architecture – wooden houses with carved balconies – gave the town a timeless charm. Paddleboarding on the calm sea at sunrise was a moment I’ll never forget. Debbie Skudra