Destinations • July 2015
Six alternative summer weekends
If you have only a few days spare for a break, you need to spend them well. Amanda Statham, travel editor of Cosmopolitan, suggests some destinations where every precious hour will live long in the memory
Walking in the Dolomites
A weekend at Adler Mountain Lodge, high in the Italian Dolomites, will refresh the spirits. The private chalet is in a prime place for walks across flower-filled meadows or steeper mountainside hikes. Staff will pack a picnic for you, and on your return you can dive into the infinity pool, have a massage in the wellness area then tuck into delicious South Tyrol cuisine.
Tapas tasting in Andalucia
Just 30km from Seville, sun-soaked Carmona makes a wonderful weekend break and the place to stay is Casa Palacio de Carmona, with its new tapas bar. Learn how to create dishes during the day, then tuck into the extensive menu in the courtyard beneath the stars. Thirty opulent rooms, a small pool and a village square lined with restaurants are other allures.
Bear-watching in Finland
Bears? In Finland? Yes... these elusive animals can be found in the forests straddling Finland’s Russian border. Long Scandinavian summer nights allow plenty of opportunity for wildlife watching from log cabins, with moose and roe deer also on the photo-opp list. Naturetrek can arrange an unforgettable three-night weekend trip in July.
Surfing in St Jean de Luz
This chic French town, near the Spanish border, is a brilliant place to learn to surf (or improve your skills). Good surf schools and a beautiful bay make it a wonderful way to spend a summer weekend. And when you’re not bobbing about, explore Biarritz just up the road. Stay at luxe Villa Arche overlooking the ocean.
Mountain biking in the Cairngorms
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, Natural Retreats has a guided mountain-bike tour in the Scottish mountains to suit. Ridge to River is a four-hour, 3,000ft descent (run May to October). After riding to the top of the funicular railway, you’ll head to Hill Track before going off-road to Aviemore, passing Loch Morlich on the way.
Road trip in the Bordeaux region
Fly to Bordeaux and pick up a pre-ordered classic car from Provence Classic Tours. Drop the top then follow one of the many scenic circuits, such as The Castle Route northwest of Bordeaux, which snakes along the D2 and passes impressive chateaux. There’s ample opportunity to stop in pretty villages and sample produce from the famous vineyards during the 130km drive. Picnic baskets and GPS receivers are provided on request.
This article has been tagged Adventure, Destination