Friday 29 May 2009

Hike the Inca Trail

Limited Availability - Hike the Inca Trail with G.A.P. Adventures!

At the pinnacle of virtually any trip to Peru is Machu Picchu and there is perhaps no better way to experience this majestic archaeological site than by taking the 4-day Inca Trail trek. From the Sacred Valley, through the forests and mountain passes of the Andes, this most famous of Incan trails arrives at the aptly named Sun Gate for a sunrise viewing of Machu Picchu.

With permits in high demand and often sold out months in advance, G.A.P. Adventures have a handful of exclusive departures with limited permits available! If these dates don't work for you, they also have the scenic Lares Trek tour to Machu Picchu available on other dates. Happy hiking!
21 Days: September 01, 2009 - September 21, 2009
Pisco, Nazca Lines, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Cuzco, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, La Paz. Peru's austere desert coast, towering Andes and most spectacular lake combine for a 3-week exploration of the Inca heartland. Hike the ancient trail of the Incas and explore the colonial jewel of Cuzco, the continent's oldest continuously inhabited city.
Price: £889.00 (GBP)
9 Days: September 09, 2009 - September 17, 2009
Cuzco, Sacred Valley, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu.Spend a week living in the land of the Incas as you hike this great civilization's ancient trail to Machu Picchu. The long hike culminates in a once-in-a-lifetime sunrise over the ruins and Andean peaks that surround it.
Price: £529.00 (GBP)
12 Days: September 11, 2009 - September 22, 2009
Lake Titicaca, Sacred Valley, Cuzco, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu.This 12-day tour combines great scenery with in-depth cultural experiences. Trek in the Andes amidst ancient ruins, experience rural indigenous culture on Lake Titicaca and wander through bustling markets in Cuzco.
Price: £649.00 (GBP)
21 Days: August 29, 2009 - September 18, 2009
Nazca Lines, Colca Canyon, Arequipa, Lake Titicaca, Cuzco, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Amazon Rainforest. Our most in-depth 3 week exploration of Peru, featuring mountain vistas, jungle adventures, colonial cities and the once-in-a-lifetime Inca Trail.
Price: £1,239.00 (GBP)
7 Days: September 03, 2009 - September 09, 2009
Cuzco, Sacred Valley, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu. Spend a week retracing the steps of the ancient Inca civilization, highlighted by the spectacular Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu.
Price: £369.00 (GBP)

Mountain-Bike Holidays

Mountain Biking Holidays with Neilson. From gentle cruises through rural villages to technical off-road challenges, cycling holidays are a perfect example of the Neilson approach - be as energetic or as chilled out as you choose.

Join in with a scenic ride to a nearby bay for an early morning swim and a Turkish coffee. Or saddle up with our expert mountain bike guides for an all day mission to conquer Greek mountains.
With great bikes and enthusiastic bike guides, you can decide if mountain biking will be a demanding new challenge or simply the best way to explore the beautiful coastlines of Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Egypt.

Neilson cycling holidays in Europe and Sinai offer the best way to explore stunning landscapes.
Guided Mountain Bike Riding
There's nothing like riding with the locals to help you see the best trails a new destination has to offer on cycling holidays in Europe. Our expert guides know their locations intimately, and are looking forward to showing you around. You can choose from up to three rides a day, depending on the location, duration, terrain and level of difficulty that suits you. At two of our centres; Vassiliki and Porto Heli we offer an expanded range of rides with greater distances and more challenging riding - great for enthusiastic mountain bikers.

Independent Mountain Bike Riding
Alternatively, enjoy the freedom to explore independently on our mountain biking holidays, with our easy-to-follow route cards. We'll supply all you need - helmets, gloves, spares and water bottles. All we ask is that you don't ride alone and that you're back by the time requested by our staff.

Where to Ride
Greece
Lesvos
Lemnos
Sivota
Turkey
Teos

Egypt
Dahab
Beachplus Clubs offer a great chance to enjoy mountain biking alongside a wide range of other activities. You may choose to join our guide for a beginner or intermediate route or join a friend on an independent adventure, with a prepared routecard for guidance.

Guests choosing a Beachplus holiday at The Aeolian Village, Lesvos; Portomyrina Palace, Lemnos; The Retreat, Sivota; The Anastasia, Halkidiki; Club Teos, Teos or The Seaside, Ortakent will enjoy a good variety of guided rides in addition to a whole host of other activities.

Beginner and intermediate mountain bikers can choose between gentle routes or tough challenges, taking place in the cooler parts of the day.

Really keen bikers or those who wish to spend most of their time in the saddle may find that our centres in Vassiliki and Porto Heli suit their needs better.

At our Beachclubs you have the opportunity to take your mountain biking to higher levels. The Cosmos Beachclub in Vassiliki and Nautica Bay Beachclub in Porto Heli offer some of the finest mountain biking we know, and have two experienced bike guides, trained to meet the needs of all riders, including the keenest bikers.

Most days there will be two or three rides of various lengths and difficulties. We offer an expanded fleet of bikes, including several full-suspension bikes. Our Book-a-Bike option enables you to reserve a bike for your sole use.

A range of ten high quality bikes awaits riders of all levels at the Coralia Beachclub in Dahab. An expert guide is on hand offering two rides of beginner or intermediate level on most days.

Don't forget all the other activities at our centres in Greece, Turkey and Egypt. There's tennis, dinghy sailing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing and scuba diving, to name but a few.

Triathlon Training Camp

The second Adidas Eyewear triathlon training camp of 2009 will take place in late summer at the Retreat in Sivota, Greece (11-18 October 2009). There will be expert coaching in swimming, cycling and running, suitable for anyone who loves triathlon or who would like a taste of this growing sport.


Triathlon is now one of the fastest growing sports in the UK as it's easily accessible, hugely rewarding and great fun! Competitors begin with a swim, before a ‘transition’ sees them climbing aboard bikes for the second leg of their race. Then, in a second transition, triathletes don their running shoes for the final stage of the triathlon.


The camp week is aimed at all levels of ability, whether you're training for the triathlon season, looking at breaking into the sport or simply want to take part in a fun event in the outdoors!

Whatever your reason, the adidas eyewear Triathlon Training Camp is sure to provide an action-packed week.


The Triathlon Training Camp cost includes*:
• Flights,
• Transfers,
• Accommodation
• Club Board Basis,
• Specialist Triathlon Coaching
• Beachplus activities, such as sailing, windsurfing, mountain biking, tennis and water-skiing


More Details:
The week-long training camp has been developed to provide first class training facilities in stunning surroundings with a programme of activities which spells utter bliss for partners and families.

Uniquely, Neilson’s hosting of the event at their Beachplus Club allows less active partners and families to accompany triathletes, relaxing in the beautiful backdrop of Greece’s Ionian coast. Days are split between optional training sessions and the freedom to enjoy Neilson’s Beachplus formula - activities ranging from wakeboarding to tennis, windsurfing to fitness, all included in the holiday at no extra charge.

The camp provides individuals from all levels the opportunity to train like a world class athlete. adidas eyewear have organised an intensive training programme run by elite triathlete Richard Allen with a sports masseur and bike mechanic on hand. The week finishes with a fun race hosted by the local town.

For the Triathlete:
• An excellent week-long training programme designed by top UK elite triathlete Richard Allen, suitable for both newcomers and experienced triathletes. Sessions focus on running, swimming, cycling, equipment choice, preparation, diet and the all-important transitions.


• A first rate support team including coaches, a masseur and a mechanic.


• The option to reserve the use of a high quality road bike for your week. Take a look here for how you can reserve your bike.


• Personal time with your partner or family to either relax or try sailing, windsurfing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, tennis, fitness or mountain biking.


• An end-of-week triathlon race, hosted by the town.*


A supplement of £185 is applicable per person for the adidas eyewear Triathlon Training Camp, plus any additional equipment costs.


Visit the Neilson website to find out more

Neilson Windsurfing Holidays


Windsurfing holidays make this exciting and exhilarating sport accessible to everybody. Just step on board and have a go.

Four good reasons for choosing a Neilson watersports centre for your windsurfing holiday:

1. Whatever your age or windsurfing ability, you will improve in leaps and bounds on your windsurfing holiday with free expert tuition and Royal Yachting Association coaching.

2. Beginners and those starting out will find a friendly and fun environment, ideal for windsurfing. The right equipment, instruction and conditions make it easier for beginners to gain confidence and make great progress towards the next level.

3. Modern lightweight equipment and the very best RYA instruction allows intermediates and experts to work on all aspects of this water sport from advanced planning to freestyle windsurfing techniques.

4. With different conditions in each of our centres, Neilson hand pick equipment from an unrivalled variety of leading manufacturers to ensure each location has a range of kit to reflect the local wind and waves. The exact kit in each centre will therefore vary and some items maybe withdrawn from use for repairs but rest assured, there's always plenty to go around.


Every day of your windsurfing holiday you are free to enjoy windsurfing independently within Neilson's designated sailing areas, which stay open until the last windsurfer returns to the beach at the end of the day. Our constant safety cover means you can concentrate on cracking that new manoeuvre.

Women Only Windsurfing
These sessions have proved very popular for intermediate and advanced windsurfers, looking to develop their skills away from their macho contemporaries. We are delighted to offer them, subject to demand, in all our centres. Keen female windsurfers visiting our high wind centres will find the Starboad Diva Carve and Tushingham Mustang offer performance fine tuned for smaller sailors. Just turn up and go.

Beginners
You have the widest choice of locations with all of our resorts offering a great environment in which to start windsurfing, along with an excellent array of wide style boards and lightweight rigs.

Intermediates
You will also find the majority of our resorts, with the exception of the Retreat in Sivota, offer great windsurfing conditions and allow fast progress with attentive tuition and the right equipment.

Experts
Experts looking for the very best conditions, tuition and performance equipment should head for the Coralia Beachclub in Dahab, Egypt, The Cosmos Beachclub in Vassiliki, Greece and The Seaside Beachplus Club in Ortakent, Turkey.

Where to windsurf?

Vassiliki - Vassiliki is one of Europe’s most famous windsurfing destinations, and a well known Mecca for windsurfers who want to blast on flat water. If you want to learn to windsurf then don’t let Vassiliki’s reputation put you off, as the morning breeze is always gentle. However, when ‘Eric’, Vassiliki’s famous wind, kicks in for the afternoon, experts can choose from the impressive array of high performance kit. If you still have the energy, we offer late safety cover most evenings when the winds blow.

Porto Heli - Beginner and intermediate windsurfers will enjoy the mix of wind conditions, with flat water in the bay creating excellent conditions for learning the basics and intermediates to learn harness technique.

Dahab - Windsurfers of every level and ability will find conditions to suit them in Dahab. In front of the hotel the beach shelves gently providing easy launching and gentler winds - ideal for beginners and intermediates. There is also an area known as the speed course with a choice of flat or choppy water, great for cracking advanced manoeuvres. Beyond the outer reef is a ‘Kamikaze’ an area with ‘bump ‘n’ jump’ conditions for expert sailors. Due to the fantastic wind conditions, our centre in Dahab is a Starboard and Tushingham test centre.

Lesvos - The wind conditions after breakfast are ideal for beginner windsurfers, with light winds that build steadily throughout the day. The afternoons provide great sailing conditions for improver windsurfers.

Halkidiki - The light morning breeze is the ideal environment for beginner windsurfers to get on the water, the afternoon brings a stronger breeze, perfect for tuning skills and blasting across the water.

Lemnos - Mornings see stronger, cross off-shore wind, perfect for windsurfing. Afternoon sees the wind swing on-shore with great conditions for beginners.

Sivota - The very light winds of Sivota provide flat, calm waters. Beginners to windsurfing enjoy this gentle environment, though intermediate sailors will rarely be challenged.

Ortakent - The wind builds slowly throughout the day with flat beginner conditions close to shore. By the afternoon, the wind usually picks up to a fresh force 4 offering exciting and challenging conditions for improvers and adventurous beginners, who will enjoy the excellent choice of boards for all levels and conditions.

Teos - The wind builds slowly throughout the day to Force 3-5, with flat beginner conditions close to shore. The bay and launching area is sheltered by a headland, inside the bay is ideal for learning new skills. Once out of the bay intermediates and experts can make the most of the excellent wind conditions, extensive tuition and our large sailing area.

Tuesday 26 May 2009

Greek Islands Sailing - Late Deals

Greek Islands Sailing - Late Deals with GAP Adventures.

A yacht adventure is the ideal way to experience what many consider the world's most beautiful islands: the Greek Islands.

Sail aboard GAP Adventures 50-foot yachts, with time for hiking, snorkelling and relaxing. Explore ancient archaeological sites and taverna-lined harbours, dine on fresh seafood and don't forget to try the Ouzo!

Details
What's Included - Fully licensed Skipper, snorkelling equipment, 7 nights aboard a sailboat.

Group Size - Max 8

Group Leader - Skipper/Captain throughout.

Accommodation - Boats have 5 twinshare cabins, 3 shared bathrooms and 2 showers.

Transport - 50 ft sailing yacht.

Meals Included - No meals are included but basic items on the boat will be covered by a food kitty.

Meal Budget - Allow EUR200 for meals not included. For additional expenses, see trip details.

Greek Islands Sailing Adventure (Santorini to Mykonos)
8 Days - departure on 21 June, 2009
Aegean Sea, Santorini, Cyclades Islands, Mykonos.
Original: £449.00 - 15%
Sale: £381.65 (GBP)

Greek Islands Sailing (Adventure Santorini to Santorini)
10 Days departure(s) on 19 June, 2009
Santorini, Sifnos, Paros, Syros, Mykonos, Naxos, Ios
Original: 649.00 - 15%Sale: 551.65 (GBP)


Central America Adventures - Late Deals

Central America Adventures - Late Deals from G.A.P. Adventures.
21 Days - departure on 13 June, 2009
Antigua, Copan, Roatan, Leon, Granada, Ometepe, Monteverde, La Fortuna
Take the road less travelled on this expedition through Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras and Guatemala. This exciting trip will appease the expectations of even the most seasoned traveller. Jungle ruins, crystal blue ocean waters and tropical rainforests await!
Original: £839.00 - 20%
Sale: £671.20 (GBP)
14 Days departure - on 28 June, 2009
San José, Tortuguero, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Manuel Antonio National Park. An action-packed exploration with options of rafting, horseback riding and zip lining. From the Caribbean beaches to the Pacific this stunning 2-week tour embodies some of the best that Costa Rica has to offer.
Original: £759.00 - 20%
Sale: £607.20 (GBP)
15 Days departure - on 06 July, 2009
Havana, Mil Cumbres, Mogote El Caimito, Viñales Valley, Cayo Jutias, Codina Park, Guanayara Park, Santa Clara, Topes de Collantes, Codina Park, Guanayara Park, El Rocio waterfall, El Cubano, Island of the Iguanas, Trinidad.
Cuba is full of so many beautiful hills, valleys and unique landscapes that the best way to see them is on foot. Cuba Hiking Adventure takes you through La Sierra de los Organos, over to the tobacco fields of the spectacular Viñales Valley. Don't worry, there will be plenty of time to relax on Cuba's legendary beaches & islands, taking in the sights or snorkelling in the crystal clear water.
Original: £899.00 - 20%
Sale: £719.20 (GBP)
16 Days departure(s) on 17 July, 2009
Antigua, Lanquín, Semuc Champey, Flores, Poptún, Rio Dulce, Monterrico, Lake Atitlán.
Take in all the Guatemalan highlights, from Mayan ruins and beautiful beaches, to the lakes, volcanoes and caves that make this country famous. Add to this the most traditional and varied indigenous population in Central America and its most charming colonial city, Antigua, and you can see why many consider Guatemala the most fascinating destination in the Americas.
Original: £439.00 - 15%
Sale: £373.15 (GBP)

Andalucia Walking Holiday

Discover the Mountains & Valleys of the Alpujarras with Sherpa Expeditions.

This walking holiday takes you to the foothills of the Sierra Nevada and to the range of mountains and valleys known as the Alpujarras. The area is of outstanding natural beauty and ecological diversity, and it is not hard to imagine that seven hundred years ago this was the fabled promised land of the Moors.

When the Moors settled here, they brought their engineering skills with them. 500 years after their departure, we can still admire, and walk along, the elaborate systems of acequias (aqueducts). These bring water from the high mountain torrents to irrigate the terraced fields of the Alpujarras. The Moorish heritage is also evident in the narrow winding streets and Moroccan style flat roofs with protruding chimneys, reminiscent of the villages in the High Atlas. Typically Andalucian, are the dazzling whitewashed walls and flower-bedecked balconies, often in autumn festooned with drying red peppers.

Tiny villages are linked by a network of ancient Camino Reales, centuries old pathways kept open by royal decree and which are still used to this day by the mules taking farmers to their work. The Mediterranean glistens only 20 miles to the south whilst the magnificent towering and often snow-capped heights of the Sierra Nevada peer down on the astonishingly fertile terraces from almost 8,000 feet above.

You will stay in a beautifully restored village house with gardens and pool and in hotels chosen for their atmosphere and views. Whatever your expectations, this tour will enchant anyone who enjoys outdoor life and wishes to holiday in an area still virtually untouched by tourism and to experience the magic of real Spain.

The tour begins and ends at Mairena, the ‘Balcony of the Alpujarras’, one of the many typical whitewashed villages, set high up at the eastern end of the Sierra Nevada, with spectacular views down to the Mediterranean. Meanwhile for the ambitious walker there are opportunities to ascend subsidiary peaks of the Sierra Nevada range such as Penabon (2200m) and Morron (2730m).
Inn to Inn 8 days
Duration: 7 nights/8 days
Tour Code: JAW
Grade: Moderate
Day Stages: Minimum 12km, max 18km.
April - November. Avoid July and August due to heat
Your Accommodation
7 nights/8 days - In Mairena you stay for 3 nights in a restored village house with gardens and pool. The house is furnished throughout with local antiques, each bedroom enjoys spectacular views from its balcony. Dinner is served on a candlelit terrace or by an olive wood fire in winter.
At Yegen you stay in an atmospheric unclassified rustic hotel typical of the region with a small pool.
At Berchules (2 nights) your accommodation is a small family run 2* hotel which also boasts a swimming pool and is renowned for its restaurant and local specialities, such as partridge in picante sauce.
At Trevelez, which claims to be the highest village in Spain and is famous for its cured hams and spring waters, you stay at a small but comfortable pension which is family run, nestled in the back streets of the upper part of the village.

Waymarking
Apart from some sections along the GR7 trail which is waymarked, much of the route is not well marked. It is often necessary to pay close attention to the detailed maps and to our route notes.
Accommodation and Meals
3 nights full board, 1 night dinner, bed and breakfast and 3 nights bed and breakfast. All rooms are ensuite
Travel
via Air: British Airways flights to Malaga. from there take the airport shuttle bus to Malaga then bus to Granada. Approx 2 hours and Euros12 per person each way (approx). Alternatively you can use Ryanair to Granada or Easyjet to Malaga then local bus to Granada and private transfer through to Mairena.
The tour ends at Mairena. Transfer to Granada, included in tour cost.

Thursday 21 May 2009

Learn Calligraphy Short Break

Learn Calligraphy Level 1. Learn the art of beautiful writing at Bembridge Coast Hotel on the Isle of Wight - part of the Warner Leisure Hotels group.

Have you ever aspired to produce beautiful cards, invitations, inscriptions and certificates? Would you like to put messages in birthday and Christmas cards that really stand out? On this break you'll learn the essentials and perhaps find yourself starting off on the road to a very rewarding hobby.

The word Calligraphy literally means beautiful writing - it comes from the Greek kallos (beauty) and graphe (writing) - and is an art form in which patience and attention to detail are more important than artistic talent. You don't need very much space or expensive materials and, since you can probably write anyway, you already know the basics.

These informative but fun sessions are specially designed to build up your confidence and ability. In a small, supportive group you'll be shown the basics of basic letter formation techniques to assist you in creating beautiful works of calligraphy. We'll provide all the materials you need for these workshops, and you'll take home samples of the work you've done so far.

On this break you'll be introduced to the basic core structures of the many different styles of calligraphy by our host Mary Noble, who is an accredited tutor of the Calligraphy & Lettering Arts Society. There are the two half-day sessions on the Saturday and Sunday and, during that time, you will produce a short quotation - written out and arranged on the page, with a colour background - to take pride of place on your mantelpiece!

To find out more visit the Warner Leisure Hotels website


Bembridge Coast Learn Calligraphy (Level 1) - Friday, November 27, 2009
3 Nights - Special Offer: Save £42.80pp. Was £214.00pp. Now from £171.20pp
5 Nights - Now from £414.00pp
7 Nights - Now from £568.00pp

Bembridge Coast Hotel, Isle of Wight. PO35 5TH
From the hotel’s gloriously secluded vantage point watch yachts cross the Solent before taking a dip in the sea. Back on land, stroll through 23 acres of beautiful grounds with their famous Spanish Gardens. If you’re feeling energetic, the hotel has an indoor four-rink bowls complex. Just the thing before a night of fantastic entertainment.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Perfect vantage point to view ships on the Solent
• Glorious, unspoilt, secluded shoreline setting
• Four-rink indoor Bowls Complex
• 23 acres of grounds and Spanish Gardens
• A friendly welcome in a continental setting

ACTIVITIES
• Four-rink indoor Bowls Complex
• Archery
• Croquet
• Rifle Shooting
• Tennis

RESTAURANT AND BARS
• The Admiral's Club Cabaret Room
• The Solent Bar
• The Solent Coffee Shop

HEALTH FACILITES
• Heated indoor pool
• Sauna and steam room
• Fitness studio
• Decléor Health and Beauty Treatments [for a small supplement]
• Solarium and tropicarium

ISLE OF WIGHT ATTRACTIONS
• Brading Roman Village
• Arreton Barns Craft Village
• Carisbrooke Castle
• Osborne House

To find out more visit the Warner Leisure Hotels website

Harrogate Flower Show Short Break

Harrogate Flower Show staying at Nidd Hall, part of the Warner Leisure Hotel group.

The Harrogate Flower Show is one of the great events of the year for everyone who loves all things gardening. So join Warner leisure Hotels for a full day out, soaking up the atmosphere in this wonderful setting.
Every year without fail the Show attracts top quality horticulturists from all over the country, not only amongst the 90+ professional nurseries that exhibit in the two flower halls, but also in the huge Specialist Societies' marquee.
Here some 20 societies hold their own show-within-a-show, where visitors can talk to a wide variety of experts and enjoy the varied and colourful displays of fruit, flowers and vegetables. The societies represented range from cactus and carnations through to fuchsias and fruit, and from bonsai and bees through to dahlias and delphiniums.
Over 70% of the show is under cover, most of it is on hard surfacing, making it particularly suitable for disabled visitors and a grand day out - whatever the weather. A huge range of gardening accessories are on sale too: a chance to pick up the pot you've been looking for, or put in an order for the summerhouse you've been promising yourself.
There are a host of gifts to buy from a range of art and craft stalls- and make sure to leave room after a delicious lunch to visit the Yorkshire food marquees - where you'll find local cheeses and gourmet sausages, award-winning pies and dry-cured bacon and hams. Delicious!
Harrogate Flower Show - Staying at Nidd Hall Friday, September 18, 2009
3 Nights - Special Offer: Save £44.85pp. Was £299.00pp. Now from £254.15pp
5 Nights - Now from £509.00pp
7 Nights - Now from £700.00pp


Nidd, Harrogate, North Yorkshire. HG3 3BN
Enjoy the 45 acres of Victorian and Edwardian gardens that make up Nidd Hall’s extensive grounds. In its heyday, Nidd Hall hosted endless house parties: at one such gathering Edward VIII was said to have first met Mrs Wallis Simpson. By day, relax in the heated indoor pool or enjoy a game of boules ... while our fantastic dining and lively nightly entertainment makes for unforgettable night.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Beautiful landscaped gardens
• Gateway to Yorkshire Dales
• 20 Meter Indoor Pool
• Peaceful and relaxing setting

ACTIVITIES
• Outdoor Bowls Green
• Archery
• Air Rifle Shooting
• Fresh Water Angling
• Tennis

RESTAURANT & BARS
• The Restaurant
• Mount Garret Bar
• Pavilion Bar
• Terrace Tea Rooms coffee shop
• The Pavilion Cabaret Room
• Library – The Old House

HEALTH FACILITIES
• Heated indoor pool and spa pool
• Sauna and steam room
• Fitness studio
• Decléor Health and Beauty Treatments [for a small supplement]

YORKSHIRE ATTRACTIONS
• Fountains Abbey
• Newby Hall
• Harewood House
• Yorkshire Dales
• York
View other flower show holidays on the Inspiring Holidays website

Wednesday 20 May 2009

Neilson Activity Holidays - Now In Kenya

Mnarani Beachclub is a fantastic new addition to the Neilson portffolio of activity holiday destinations. If you are looking for a sailing, windsurfing or mountain-biking holiday in a truely exotic location then this new Neilson beachclub resort is ideal.

Located between Malindi and Mombasa on the cliffs of Kilifi overlooking the Indian Ocean and Kilifi Creek, the Mnarani Beachclub occupies an amazing location in the most peaceful and picturesque of surroundings with 40 acres of landscaped tropical gardens, fragranced by Frangipani blossoms and cooled by the steady ocean breezes.

The name Mnarani is taken from the nearby village and means lighthouse, it originates from a lighthouse erected during the 15th century by Arab traders to guide trading dhow boats.


To find out more aout this amazing new venue visit the Neilson website

Watersports - Sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and more...
Kilifi creek, a tidal river estuary opening out into the Indian Ocean, is a world championship sailing venue. Consistent trade winds and warm, clear water ensure excellent sailing conditions with winds building throughout the day, reaching on average force 3-4 most days.

The sailing area is extensive, with ocean and inland sailing offering conditions to suit all abilities. From the beach you sail left up the creek to a vast inland salt-water lake with excellent wind and calm waters. Turn right, past the reef and you are sailing in the Indian Ocean.

Kilifi will be the best dinghy sailing area, whilst windsurfing is great for all levels with good consistent winds for beginners, improvers and high-level intermediates. A full range of RYA tuition and courses will be available in Kenya for both dinghy sailors and windsurfers.

The Kit
• 6 Laser Bahia • 6 Laser 1 • 4 Dart 16 • 6 Laser Pico • 2 RS 500 • 2 Laser SB3
• 30 beginner and Improver Windsurf boards
• 60 Windsurf Rigs

They also have ten one and two seater kayaks, which are perfect for exploring the tiny bays and inlets of the creek and mangroves, home to over 250 different species of birds.


Mountain-Biking
Mountain bikers will also have a fantastic experience using Neilson's fleet of 12 brand new Gary Fisher mountain bikes. There are lots of tracks in and around Kilifi, and there are exciting trails through nearby Arabuko-Sokoke forest. Sokoke forest is the largest tract of indigenous forest remaining in east Africa, with coastal forest, open woodland and low dense thicket. Local inhabitants of the forest include squirrels, monkeys, an amazing variety and number of butterflies and birds and a herd of more than 100 elephants (please note there is an entry fee payable for some parts of the forest).

Fishing, Snorkelling & Diving
Kilifi is famous for its World-class big game fishing. In addition there are wonderful opportunities for snorkelling and scuba diving along the vast coral reef. Nearby Malindi-Watamu Marine National Park has a spectacular reef and is a renowned site for both snorkelling and diving. There is a PADI dive school at Mnarani Beachclub. A try-dive is included and a wide range of dive courses are available to book locally.

You can also pay locally to enjoy the calm waters of the creek whilst waterskiing or wakeboarding.

Please remember when on the water you need to wear a high factor sunscreen, Kilifi is near the equator, the sun is intense and cooling sea breezes can mask the effects of the sun.

RYA Tuition & Courses
• RYA dinghy sailing and windsurfing tuition and courses are included
• Tuition is progressive and flexible. Clinics for beginners to experts are included covering the RYA National Sailing and The RYA National Windsurfing Scheme:
- RYA Dinghy Sailing Level 1-2, Seamanship Skills, Sailing with Spinnakers, Performance Sailing and Start Racing
- RYA Windsurfing – Start Windsurfing and Intermediate (planing and non-planing)

(Equipment and activities listed can be used by up to 90 guests)

To find out more aout this amazing new venue visit the Neilson website


Monday 18 May 2009

RHS Flower Show Tatton Park

RHS Flower Show at Tatton Park with Warner Leisure Hotels - A showcase for gardening design and horticultural excellence.
Ideas, inspiration and plants - they're all yours to take home from the Royal Horticultural Society's Flower Show at Tatton Park in Cheshire.
Gardeners from across the country have grown to love this flower show for its relaxed ambience, original back-to-back small gardens and exciting show gardens that indulge a wide cross-section of tastes, budgets and planting preferences.
Whether you're a traditionalist at heart, or an aficionado of contemporary garden design, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Tatton, with advice from the experts and products from suppliers large and small to take back with you and apply all you've learned when you get home.
The RHS Flower Show at Tatton Park is one of the North of England's most spectacular shows, featuring cutting-edge garden design, plants and bedding displays from around the UK. From the latest trends in plants and furniture, to helpful people who can provide guidance on how to grow, train and manage your garden and your horticultural ambitions, this flower show has everything you need - and didn't know you needed - for your garden to flourish.
Dramatic floral art, rare varieties and award-winning stands will provide visitors with inspiration in abundance, with an array of packed marquees, where experts and growers will also be on hand to give hints, tips and advice.
So if you're looking for fresh ideas to give your garden some zip and pizzazz, join us as we take a trip to Tatton!
Alvaston Hall, Leafy Cheshire
In leafy Cheshire, where Chester and Nantwich have a rich heritage to explore.
Friday, July 24, 2009
3 Nights - Special Offer: Save £38.10pp. Was £254.00pp. Now from £215.90pp
5 Nights - Now from £399.00pp
7 Nights - Now from £543.00pp

Alvaston Hall Hotel
Middlewich Road, Nantwich, Cheshire. CW5 6PD
This lovingly restored Victorian hall has its very own 9-hole golf course and a 16-bay floodlit 250m driving range. The nearby towns of Chester and Nantwich offer thousands of years of history - and shopping. Once back at Alvaston Hall, you can indulge in a range of beauty therapies and top live nightly entertainment.


GBP500 off Zanzibar & Selous Safaris

Book two people onto the Adventure Company Zanzibar & Selous trip on either the 08 July 2009 or 15 July 2009 departures and get GBP500 off the booking.
They also have some great offers on other African experiences this year.
If you book onto the Classic Kenyan Safari departing 11 July 2009 you’ll automatically enjoy upgraded accommodation at all safari stops; staying in the Tented Lodge at Nakuru and a tented camp at Laikipia and in the Masai Mara.
If you’re interested in getting to know more about wildlife conservation in Africa, book onto their Walking with the Masai trips departing on 09 July & 15 October 2009 and you’ll enjoy tours of Karen Blixen’s House and the Nairobi Giraffe Centre included in the price.
Join the wonderful Gorilla Trails trip on either 16 August or 09 September and experience a free guided village walk in Bwindi; a truly authentic African experience.
For more information visit the Adventure Company website or telephone 0845 609 0837


Saturday 9 May 2009

Walking Holiday in the Canadian Rockies

Walking in the Canadian Rockies - 14 days from GBP2,224.

Explore the spectacular scenery of the Canadian Rockies. Discover the delights of cosmopolitan Vancouver. Gaze in awe at the splendours of Banff National Park and beautiful Lake Louise. Enjoy a range of scenic walks, a horseback ride and rafting on the Kananaskis River on this unforgettable holiday.

Walking Information
Our holidays are designed to offer a combination of walks and sightseeing. To help you gauge the most suitable for you, we use a grading system as a guideline, based on time spent walking and the degree of ascent. These figures show the normal maximum ascent and walking times per day. This tour includes walks at Grades 1 and 2.


Grade 1 Walks
- With up to 4 hours walking a day, mostly on good paths but occasionally rough underfoot. There are plenty of rest stops and time to enjoy the local scenery. Ascent less than 300m per day.


Grade 2 Walks
- With up to 5 hours walking per day on slightly more rugged terrain, these walks are moderate, for anyone who is comfortable walking hills. There is still plenty of time to rest and enjoy the scenery. Ascent less than 500m per day.


Visit the Travelsphere Website now

What's Included

* Scheduled flights to Calgary, returning from Vancouver

* Transfers between airport and hotels

* All other transportation as detailed

* Twelve nights’ bed & breakfast accommodation

* Services of a Get Up & Go Tour Manager

* Excursions and activities as follows: - Guided walks to Sunshine Meadows & Lake Louise - Horseback Riding - Rafting - Guided walk around Maligne Canyon & Medicine Lake - Vancouver city tour

* Dinner on Day 2

* Barbecue lunch on Day 4

* Picnic lunch on Day 5

* All hotel baggage handling for one piece of luggage per person

* All State and local taxes

* All UK and overseas airport taxes and security charges

* Insurance and cancellation cover


Accommodation

You will stay in hotels such as the Sandman Inn in Calgary, Cedar Court in Banff, Amethyst Lodge in Jasper, Thompson Hotel in Kamloops and the best Western Downtown in Vancouver. There is a restaurant and/or bar in each hotel. All rooms feature private facilities, TV and telephone.


Itinerary


DAY 1 - UK/CANADA

Depart on your scheduled flight to Calgary. On arrival transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.


DAY 2 - BANFF

Transfer to your hotel in banff for a four night stay.


DAY 3 - BANFF

Today we include a walk in the beautiful Sunshine Meadows, where colourful wildflowers set against mountain peaks make for a stunning setting (approx. 3 hours’ walk).


DAY 4 - BANFF

Today you’ll enjoy an included guided horseback trail ride and a barbecue lunch, followed by an included raft ride on the Kananaskis River.


DAY 5 - LAKE LOUISE

Today we include a three-hour walk around Lake Louise, renowned as one of the most beautiful spots in Canada. Includes a picnic lunch.


DAY 6 - JASPER

Morning departure for Jasper. Along the way we stop at the Great Columbian Icefield for an included ice explorer ride on the Athabasca Glacier. Continue to your hotel in Jasper for a three night stay.


DAY 7 - JASPER
Join an unforgettable included walk today around Maligne Canyon, where you will discover the folklore and mystery that surrounds the canyon and the ‘disappearing’ Medicine Lake. There is also an optional raft trip on the Athabasca River (approx. 3 hours’ walk).


DAY 8 - JASPER
At leisure to enjoy individual sightseeing and exploration. Alternatively, join the optional excursion of a hike to Mount Edith Cavell (approx. 3 hours’ walk).


DAY 9 - KAMLOOPS

Depart Jasper and travel over the yellow Head Pass, passing Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian rockies, having lunch (at own cost) overlooking the Thompson River, and see the incredible views from Spahats Falls in Wells Grey Park, before continuing to Kamloops for an overnight stay.


DAY 10 - VANCOUVER

Continue via the rugged Fraser River Canyon to Vancouver, where you will stay for three nights.


DAY 11 - VANCOUVER

Included introductory city tour of Vancouver which has one of the most beautiful settings of any city in the world, surrounded by mountains, forests and beautiful islands. Afternoon free to relax or join an optional excursion to the North shore.


DAY 12 - VANCOUVER
Today you can join an optional full day excursion to charming Victoria on Vancouver Island.


DAY 13 - VANCOUVER

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.


DAY 14 - CANADA/UK

Arrival in the UK.


Dates, Prices & Departure

holiday ref: GUCAN
10/09/2009 - £2224
Deposit £150 per person

All prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin or double-bedded room with private facilities


Surcharges

The price of fuel has risen dramatically over the past months in line with oil prices. As a result many airlines and cruise lines have imposed additional fuel charges. In common with other businesses our prices now include an additional charge for all new bookings which has been introduced to cover these costs.


Supplements
* Single room £480

* Insurance


Travel Information

Heathrow Air Canada Depart 1415 hrs / Return arr. 1350 hrs
All timings are approximate and may be subject to variation.

Regional Connecting Flights

If you can’t fly direct to your destination from your local airport we offer the choice to take a regional connecting flight to Heathrow or Gatwick from as little as £29 per person return. Fly from Aberdeen, Belfast, Durham Tees Valley, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Jersey, Leeds/Bradford, Manchester, Newcastle or Newquay. (From £29 for Worldwide holidays and from £69 for European holidays.)


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Friday 8 May 2009

Wimbledon Experience Short Breaks

Enjoy the opportunity of a lifetime and experience the unique atmosphere of Wimbledon Tennis Championships with a Superbreaks Short Break.

Watch and support some of the exciting tennis matches taking place on No. 1 court during the final days of The Championships. Matches will include doubles competitions on Friday 3rd July or juniors and veterans matches on Sunday 5th July 2009.
This fantastic package includes accommodation for 1 night at the Thistle London Heathrow, a ticket for the No.1 court on the day of check out with return coach transfers between your hotel and Wimbledon.

Watch and support some of the exciting tennis matches taking place on No. 3 court during the second week of The Championships. Matches will include the later rounds of the Men’s Singles, Ladies’ Singles and Mens, Ladies and Mixed Doubles competitions.
This fantastic package includes 1 nights’ accommodation at the Thistle London Heathrow, a ticket for the No.3 court on the day of check out with return coach transfers between your hotel and Wimbledon.

Friday 1 May 2009

Dine at Gordon Ramsay's Brasserie in Versailles

Dine at the amazing La Veranda Brasserie in Versailles, a relaxed Brasserie specialising in fine cuisine - the French outpost of famed celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay.

Short Breaks are proud to offer you deals over Summer which include return Eurostar, 5 star B&B Accommodation & a 3 course meal at La Veranda.
Casual Dining In An Alluring Setting
Escape to one of France's finest luxury retreats - Trianon Palace Versailles. As a lush, garden hideaway just steps from the Chateau de Versailles, we blend the ambiance of this legendary palace with contemporary style and sophistication.

La Veranda, the stylish restaurant by internationally acclaimed chef Gordon Ramsay, offers a feast for the senses. The striking black-and-white interior by celebrated English decorator Fiona Thompson plays delightfully against pastoral vistas of sheep nibbling on the lawn in the Parc de Versailles.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, La Veranda features fabulous contemporary continental cuisine complemented by a diverse wine list. During the summer months, request a table on the terrace for wonderful views of the Chateau de Versailles.



All prices are per person & include return Eurostar & B+B. Subject to availability & our Terms
* 3 Course meal excludes drinks

Brussels Jazz Marathon

Brussels Jazz Marathon - 29/05/09 to 31/05/09 with ShortBreaks

This huge jazz festival of the Brussels Jazz Marathon features more than 450 musicians performing on the main squares in Brussels (Grand Place, place du Sablon, place Ste-Catherine & place Fernand Cocq) as well as in 50 venues/clubs/hotels.

The line up features world famous artists and breakthrough jazz musicians and covers all musical styles of the jazz spectrum - from classic to freeform.

The entire programme is available to visitors for free - just book a break and sit back and enjoy the party.

Open Golf Championships with Superbreak

Open Golf Championships - 18 & 19 July 2009 at Turnberry Golf Course, Scotland

The 138th Open Championship moves to Turnberry in 2009. This outstanding Links Course has hosted many exciting tournaments and the 138th Open Championship is bound to be no exception.
Your package includes 2 nights accommodation at the Bothwell Bridge Hotel near Glasgow. Check in is on Friday 17th July 2009 with continental breakfast, 2 all day visits to the Open Golf Championships at Turnberry for Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th July 2009 plus return coach transfers between the hotel and Turnberry for each day of the ticket duration.

Book a trip to Open Golf Championships - 18 & 19 July 2009 online with Superbreak, with tickets to Open Golf Championships - 18 & 19 July 2009 and hotel accommodation included in the price.

Edinburgh Military Tattoo with Superbreak

Edinburgh Military Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle with Superbreak
With the stunning floodlit backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, and its unique blend of music, ceremony, entertainment and theatre, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo is without doubt one of the greatest shows in the world.

At the heart of every Tattoo is the stirring sight of the massed pipes and drums of the Scottish regiments. The Tattoo is not just a Scottish show, nor is it confined to music. Over the years, it has presented a whole host of international performers – military and civilian – from 30 countries.

With the lone piper playing his haunting lament high on the ramparts above the esplanade, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo is guaranteed to be an experience that you will never forget.

Edinburgh Military Tattoo - 1 Night Package
Edinburgh Military Tattoo - 2 Night Midweek Package
Edinburgh Military Tattoo - 2 Night Weekend Package

Edinburgh Military Tattoo - 3 Night Weekend Package


Chelsea Flower Show with Superbreak

Chelsea Flower Show - 23 May 2009 at the Royal Hospital, Chelsea

Nowhere makes gardening more fashionable than the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. A catwalk of colour and creativity, the brightest new ideas and the latest trends make this show the one the world wants to see.

The show gardens, created by some of the world's leading garden designers, provide you with endless inspiration whatever your budget. The best in gardening and horticulture is brought together in one place for one week in May.

The show is held in the grounds of the Royal Hospital, home to the Chelsea Pensioners, next to the River Thames. Show opens 8am- 5.30pm.

Superbreak is pleased to offer one day entrance tickets for Saturday 23 May 2009 with overnight accommodation from a choice of London hotels.

Book a trip to Chelsea Flower Show - 23 May 2009 online with Superbreak, with tickets to Chelsea Flower Show - 23 May 2009 and hotel accommodation included in the price.

Find out more on the Superbreak website


Wine Appreciation Break with Warner Hotels

Warner Leisure Hotels short breaks are exclusively for adults. At each of their hotels you can expect great activities, fine dinning and superb entertainment with breakfast a three course dinner and accommodation all included in the price.

Wine Appreciation - Around the world of wine in three days
There are now so many wonderful wines available from all around the world, that selecting the best for quality and value - as well as the perfect wine for each occasion - seems harder each year. No longer! This wine appreciation experience will improve and develop your knowledge of grape varieties as well as regional (and even vineyard) variations from country to country.

Over three four-hour sessions, you'll start at the beginning - the history of wine - and go through to how modern wines are created. Along the way, of course, there will be ample opportunities to sample a wide variety of wines under the expert guidance of a sommelier.

The first day concludes with tasting New World wines. Opening with some examples of light, crisp white wines, we'll take you on a vinery tour through smooth, velvety Chilean varieties to powerful, vibrant Australian reds. The journey will encompass Argentina, America, Chile, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand.

Day Two starts with a history of French wines, covering the 'Granddaddies' of grapes (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay) before launching into a tasting of Old World wines including mellow, buttery and silky Sauvignon Blancs and the intense yet subtle St. Emillion Merlot grape. This day's journey includes Italy, France, Germany, Spain and Portugal.

No appreciation course would be complete without a close examination of champagnes, which we cover on day three, as well as some sumptuous dessert wines, intriguing wine varieties (e.g. white Chateauneuf-Du-Pape and Rioja) and wines from lesser-known regions.

It's the wine journey of a lifetime!

Thoresby Hall Wine Appreciation - 22 June 2009, 23 November 2009, 24 May 2010, 18 October 2010

British Grand Prix with Page & Moy

The atmosphere at Silverstone for the 2009 British Grand Prix is sure to be electric as competitors and spectators alike celebrate the end of an era. The spiritual home of British racing has hosted the British Grand Prix every year since 1987, but 2009 sees the end of this fantastic run.

Already one of the fastest and potentially unpredictable circuits on the racing calendar, the race this year promises to be a memorable event.

Page & Moy are the motorsports holiday experts. They have been in the business since 1961 so you know you'll be well looked after.

British Grand Prix - Silverstone, 4 nights
Days: 5 June 18
Prices from:£369

British Grand Prix - Silverstone, 3 nights
Days: 4 June 19
Prices from: £319

British Grand Prix - Silverstone - 3 days by coach
Days: 3 June 20
Prices from: £149

British Grand Prix - Silverstone, 2 nights
Days: 3 June 20
Prices from: £249

Telephone Page & Moy on 0845 358 2639 for details of any of these holidays

Reiki Courses With Warner Leisure Hotels

Warner Leisure Hotels short breaks are exclusively for adults. At each of their hotels you can expect great activities, fine dinning and superb entertainment with breakfast a three course dinner and accommodation all included in the price.

Reiki for Beginners
Enjoy an insight to Reiki, during 2 sessions over your break you will be taught the basics of Reiki, an Universal life force that can assist us to regain balance and to replenish our own energy systems. Reiki can at times enhance intuition and highlight personal insights into areas of our lives that may need our care and attention. In nurturing ourselves in this way, we can provide a perfect opportunity for our Personal Development and Spiritual Growth.

No diagnosis or guarantee is offered as to a specific experience or outcome. Reiki is a very personal jouney and each individual will receive the energy in the way that is most appropriate at the time.

Although Reiki should not be used instead of orthodox medical treatment, it can be a perfect and safe complement alongside.

8 May 2009
Cricket St Thomas - Reiki for Beginners Check Availability

Reiki Level 1
The purpose of this Experience is to offer you opportunity to develop your spiritual awareness through guided workshops to learn how to channel healing energies through Reiki. You will be taught by Reiki masters, who will take you through Reiki Level 1. You'll receive training on how to channel and give Reiki healing. You will also receive a recognised certificate and manual on completion of the workshop.

22 May 2009
Alvaston Hall - Reiki Level 1 Check Availability