1. The Dorset County Show – September

The Dorset County Show held within the outskirts of Dorchester presents a glorification of Dorset’s celebrated and often romanticised relationship with the great outdoors.

Starting life in 1841, this two-day event held during the twilight of summer blends modernity with rural tradition to deliver agriculturally themed activities, events and competitions the whole family can enjoy.

Highlights include a collection of the nation’s finest famers showing off the spoils of their labour in much the same way as they would have over 170 years ago; as well as enough parades packed full of animals and machines to occupy the minds of even the busiest children.

Read more about The Dorset County Show at dorsetcountyshow.co.uk

2. The Great Dorset Steam Fair – August/September

Based on the exhibition of our national heritage, The Great Dorset Steam Fair provides a prism from which we can discover how our ancestors lived and worked during the dawn of the industrial age. Traditionally held at the village of Tarrant Hinton, this extravaganza covers 600 acres of showground and is now regarded as one of the finest of its kind anywhere in the world.

The fair’s scale and scope means its attractions are not solely limited to the steam engines that give the fair its name. Whether you are into food, music, animals, fairground rides or just soaking up the vibe of a vibrant atmosphere, there is something for all ages to behold at The Great Dorset Steam Fair.

Great Dorset Steam Fair by Timitrius

Read more about The Great Dorset Steam Fair at gdsf.co.uk

3. The Larmer Tree Festival – July

Founded in 1991 by James Sheppard, The Larmer Tree Festival has since grown from strength to strength, and is now considered to be among the leading family orientated festivals in the UK; winning the best family festival award at the UK Festival Awards in 2008. A five-day celebration of music and the arts; the festival is situated within the glorious Larmer Tree Gardens- leisure grounds built by Augustus Pitt Rivers during the Victorian age.

Famed for its varied and enticing line-ups incorporating the best of world music, headliners in recent years have included Sea Sick Steve and Irish living legend Van Morrison.

Read more about The Larmer Tree Festival at larmertreefestival.co.uk

4. Camp Bestival – July/August

Taking place at Lulworth Castle, Camp Bestival is run and organised by BBC Radio 1 DJ Rob Da Bank, who also runs the Bestival festival in the Isle of Wight.

The fact that Camp Bestival won the UK Festival Award’s best family festival in the successive years of 2009 and 2010 after the Larmer Tree Festival, adds weight to the body of evidence proving Dorset is the king of events based on family fun. A point reinforced by the almost exhaustive list of things for children to do at last year’s event. Additionally, the variety of live acts that have performed in recent years also makes attractive reading for music fans.

Camp Bestival by mike george

Read more about Camp Bestival at campbestival.net

5. The Bournemouth Air Festival – August/September

Held over Bournemouth’s idyllic coastline, this air festival revels in showcasing some of the best aeronautical engineering and piloting ability from home and abroad, including the RAF’s world renowned Red Arrows.

However, perhaps the most eye-catching display the festival has to offer are the dusk displays. Here the planes light up the sky just as the sun begins to set.
In addition to the planes are several music venues and exhibition areas, including a Wave 105 sponsored stage at Boscombe Pier that often attracts a host of big names in the world of music.

Bournemouth Air Festival by Santosh Puthran

Read more about The Bournemouth Air Festival at bournemouthair.co.uk

6. Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival – September

Set against the backdrop of a beautifully quaint village, the Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival provides a real taste -both literally and figuratively- of Dorset.
The festival is home to over 60 stalls allowing you to sample some of the finest cheeses in the world. If that is not enough to satisfy your taste buds, each cheese can be washed down with the aid of locally brewed ciders and ales that serve a refreshing change to the homogenised pints on sale found in the majority of pubs.

Entertainment is provided in the guise of live music, morris dancing and a Punch and Judy show to ensure that the Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival provides one of Dorset’s best and most popular shindigs.

Read more about Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival at cheesefestival.co.uk

7. Kingston Maurward firework display – November

Bonfire night annually provides a vast array of firework displays that jostle for people’s attention. But what sets Kingston Maurward’s display apart from the others is the setting, taking place within the English Heritage registered gardens of a large Georgian house country house.

The fireworks are set off above the garden’s beautiful lake, so that the reflective quality of the water magnifies their effect. The colour and spectacle that this creates instils a sense of awe children and adults alike that lasts long after the display has ended.

8. Bournemouth Christmas Festival – December

Situated in the town’s square, the Bournemouth Christmas Festival offers plenty in the shape seasonal cheer and spirit. Taking its inspiration from traditional German ‘Weihnachtsmarkt’ markets the festival that stretches from mid-November to early January and features delicious German cuisine at its heart. New to this year’s festival is an Alpine chalet style bar that serves a selection of the highest quality German beers and mulled wines.

In addition to food from Germany and the rest of the world, the Bournemouth Christmas Festival offers visitors the chance to buy gifts for themselves and others from a selection of world-class vendors.

Read more about Bournemouth Christmas Festival at
bournemouthchristmasmarkets.com

9. Weymouth Kite Festival – May

There is nothing quite as equally surreal and joyous as seeing a giant penguin or a twelve foot octopus take to the sky, and the Weymouth Kite Festival offers both these things and more in abundance.

Taking place on the May Bank Holiday Weekend every year, the festival takes advantage of Weymouth’s sea breeze to show off a weird and wonderful range of kites that bring delight to the masses of revellers that descend on the seaside town to witness the spectacle.

10. The Dorset Knob Throwing Competition – May

This one may raise a few eyebrows, but the “Dorset Knob Throwing Competition”, situated in the village of Cattistock, is about as Dorset-esque as it gets. For those that don’t know, a Dorset Knob is a hard and dry savoury biscuit made by the Moores Biscuits company.

Besides the throwing competition, Dorset Knobs are used in a variety of competitions including knob darts and knob eating. The Frome Valley Food Festival runs also runs in conjunction with the competition and features a range of locally produced food including meats, cheeses and pies to sample.

Read more about The Dorset Knob Throwing Competition at
dorsetknobthrowing.com

If you have been to any of these events or wish to suggest an experience the list missed, please do so in the comments section below.

Dorset patron and Festival veteran Gavin Harvey pulls on his own experiences to share his opinion on the 10 annual events in Dorset not be missed.

The post 10 Annual Not-To-Be-Missed Events in Dorset appeared first on Europe Explored.

Glentress

I’ve heard that Ian Warby has called Glentress “the UK’s number-one mountain bike destination” and as the Cycling Tourist Club’s resident trail expert, he ought to know! Glentress is wonderful for bikers of all levels because it contains a wide variety of beginner trails, intermediate challenges, and even devilish “black runs” for those truly brave souls who like to pedal through some seriously rough stuff so there is something for everyone!

Glentress Forest, Scotland, UK by Estrnc

Fort William

Well, if this place is good enough for the annual Mountain Bike World Cup then I can certainly put my endorsement behind it! This one puts you smack bang in the picturesque Scottish Highlands. There aren’t as many beginner offerings here, but once you get your skill level up, you can’t go wrong with the breathtaking sights and challenges it offers you.

Kirroughtree

This one is in Southern Scotland and is a bit less mountainy as a result, being through forests and country primarily. Still, it contains a few of the UK’s longest biking trails and there are some extremely challenging trails here if you’re of the more advanced type. It also has some wonderful beginner and intermediate trails, although the advanced offerings are the main claim to fame.

On Kirroughtree 7stanes Black route, Scotland, UK by alx_chief

Dalbeattie

There are a couple of beginner and intermediate offerings in Dalbeattie, though I think most people who come here are the brave folks who want to try the Hardrock trail. And believe me, bravery is necessary! The surface of this trail is extremely rocky and even veteran mountain riders constantly make epic spills.

Newcastleton

Right on the border of Scotland and England, this one offers primarily shorter trails. The lack of longer trails may be a disappointment to some, but frankly, I think the absolutely stunning sights make this a worthy stop nonetheless. And really, while you can’t quite “go the distance” here as it were, you can still find plenty of ways to challenge yourself on their famous “Red Route” which is one of the narrowest biking trails in existence right on the side of a cliff!

Newcastleton, Scotland, UK by Mike

The UK offers a ton of exciting opportunities for mountain biking enthusiasts everywhere but I have to admit, some of my favourites are in Scotland. With a nice variety of terrain types, Scotland offers some of the most diverse ranges of mountain biking experiences of any region in the world. Just remember, it pays to have some insurance such as ProtectYourBubble.com mountain bike insurance in case you do have some sort of accident on your adventures!

Laura Ginn is a professional writer and blogger who has recently rediscovered her love of hitting the trails. She has attempted trails in wide variety of locations but constantly comes back to her love for the unique trail offerings in the UK.

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If you are traveling to Europe in early spring, consider the incredible city of Venice in Italy. The Carnival of Venice is linked to Easter, so the date changes every year. The festival lasts for about 2 weeks. The carnival is known for it’s amazing costumes and beautiful masks. Exciting events include, gondola parades, gala balls and concerts. Venice is truly a feast for the eyes, with its intricate web of canals, gondolas gliding slowly across the water and centuries old palaces. There are numerous restaurants to choose from, with seating outside along the canals.

Carnival of Venice, Italy by heatherbroster

In March if you are traveling to Europe you might want to include the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland. St Patrick is the patron Saint of Ireland. This is a religious and cultural festival. If you want to see the parade it is held on March 17th, but there are many other events, such as a boat race, music and dancing and of course green beer flowing in the pubs! The festival is now a 4 day event and is held every year.

If you like excitement, Pamplona, Spain is the place to be during July 6-14 for the festival of San Fermin, otherwise known as the Running of the bulls. This may be something you would prefer to watch, rather than participate in. Injuries and deaths do occur! Two excellent viewing areas to choose from would be Plaza Consistorial or Estafeta Street.

San Fermin, Pamplona, Spain by Abir Anwar

An exciting and historic city to visit is Edinburgh, Scotland, with its magnificent castle perched on a hill overlooking the city. August is an excellent time to visit Edinburgh because most of the year Edinburgh can be cold, wet and windy. In August, you have the added excitement of the 3 week long Edinburgh festival, which is a festival of the performing arts, including, music, dance, theater and opera from around the world.

Okoberfest is held for 16 days in Munich, Germany. It usually opens in late September and is known as the world’s largest keg party! The festival has costume parades and rides for all the family. The festival is held in the center of Munich, and there are traditional foods, such as, wurstl (sausages) and brezn (pretzels). Just to get an idea of the size of the festival there are roughly 6.5 million visitors. Events are held in large tents, the most popular being the Hippodron, where many of the classic Oktoberfest bands play their traditional music.

Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany by Gutsul

December in Europe is home to amazing Christmas markets. These Christmas markets started in Germany, France and Austria. The oldest Christmas market started in Dresden, Germany in 1434. The Dresden Christmas market has over 250 stalls and attracts 2 million visitors a year. There are similar markets in Munich, Cologne and Nuremberg. Visitors can enjoy, Christmas carols, Christmas tree lighting, delicious treats such as mulled wine, spicy gingerbread and roasted chestnuts. This is an opportunity to buy delightful hand made gifts for friends and family.

Monica Sing has been living in India for the last 23 years. She is currently planning on a backpacking holiday across Europe. Apart from traveling, she also teaches yoga to guests at The Paul, a leading hotel in Bangalore.  You can contact her on natasha.dogre(at)gmail.com to know more.

The post Top Festivals of Europe appeared first on Europe Explored.

Glastonbury festival in the UK

I thought it would be best if I started off with the Glastonbury festival in the UK. This festival is not based on one particular genre but is built around a couple of different genres and therefore if you are a person looking for spending some quality time in the English countryside in late June, this would be an excellent place to hang out. It would be right to say that Glasto is nothing less that legendary and that it is a must for all music lovers. The festival is very famous for different themes which are segmented and there won’t be a single moment you would be musically isolated. Probably it is the biggest music festival in the planet and there are thousands of people who are attracted to these grounds seeking to enjoy a variety of genres. You may have heard about the most recent headliners which included Beyonce and Jay-Z.  However the whole festival as a whole could be pre-dominantly considered as rock event.

Glastonbury festival, UK by Edward Simpson

Sonar festival in Spain

The next most mention worthy music festival in my opinion would be Sonar in Spain. The items are mainly and most commonly electronic and there are always some spicy differences to mix it all up and give a diversified output. The festival is held in mid-June and it is held in one of Europe’s finest cities. The festival runs in two modes as Sonar by night and Sonar by day. The latter contains upcoming and new artists and the night is best if you want to see some of the most amazing top DJ’s and electronic bands in the world. If you are a hardcore fan of electronic then you could rave pretty much nonstop starting on Thursday till Sunday morning. There are also a lot of amazingly free events and parties and it would certainly be easy on your pockets.

Iceland Airwaves festival

In late October/ November there is a festival called Iceland Airwaves that promotes a lot of upcoming bands and also a lot of native bands in Iceland. If you go through the history of this festival, it was pretty interesting because the first airwaves festival was said to have been held on an airplane hangar as far back as in 1999 and from then it has grown and expended into a huge event.

Other popular festivals

Among the other popular festivals are the Parks and Leeds and Reading festival, Exit festival in Serbia, Benicassim in Spain, Sziget Festival in Hungary, Roskilde in Denmark, Open’er in Poland and last but not least the Tomorrowland in Belgium.

Sziget Festival, Hungary by Paul Williams

These festivals are undoubtedly the top in Europe and I would not advice any music lover to miss them unless you are really otherwise occupied.

About the author:

Melissa Welsh is a freelance writer who enjoys the challenges of creativity and attention to detail. At the moment she is writing some interesting articles about flights to Male Maldives.

The post The top 10 amazing music festivals in Europe that you should not miss appeared first on Europe Explored.

Siam water park, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain by stephen jones

One of them is the Siam water park. It is found in the Adeje region (Tenerife) and has the popular tower of power. This tower has a notably long slide which ends with a tunnel passing through a shark tank. You should however not be worried as people are protected from the sharks. In addition to this, there is the vertical slide dubbed the dragon on which one slides at a great speed. For the ones who love surfing, the large pool waves with sandy beaches are sure to catch your attention. Simply, there is something for the whole family.

The Tropical Islands in Germany is another great water park in Europe. It has great indoor pools which are large enough to accommodate about 8,000 people. There are many slides in this place and it is up to you to choose the one you want. Presence of an indoor pool means that the family gets to have a wonderful time irrespective of the environment outside. This place has tropical pools and beaches to make the time spent here simply amazing.

Tropical Islands, Germany by Thomas Kamann

When looking at the great parks in Europe, there is one which cannot be overlooked. This is the Alpamare water park ideally located near the shores of Lake Zurich. This park offers both indoor and outdoor pools to families. It is the largest covered park in Europe. Therefore, you can be sure that the children will have ample space to play in and have fun. The area is more than enough and there is no congestion as it is the case with other water parks in other different locations. To make the experience even more wonderful, there is the underwater music in the outdoor pool.

To add onto the options of wonderful places to have fun with the family, there is the Aquariaz water park in France. It happens to be one of the newest family destinations. It is also the highest but not the biggest. Within this park, any type of slide that comes to your mind is readily available. Notably, the place is open throughout the year including the winter season. Without a doubt, it is one of the best places for families during the summer break. However, if one wants to come with the family to Europe and have a wonderful time, you should first consider going for the passport applications.

These popular locations have been presented by Ellen Nicola who has vast experience of the travel industry. She has worked in this industry for about 20 years. She has also been involved with expanding of online information on travel since the inception of the World Wide Web.

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Ski holidays tend to require a bit more planning than a lot of other types of vacation, which may just be a case of booking flights and accommodation. On top of your travel and living arrangements you need to consider whether you need to shire ski equipment, what specific ski passes or lift passes you’ll need, the specific facilities the resort you’re intending to stay at offers, and which ski schools are best for your kids. Below is a more specific look into each factor to help make each step of the planning process a little easier.

Resort

Whilst there are many great skiing locations in the world, the resorts in the French Alps are some of the best. Places such as Les Arcs, La Plagne, Tignes and Val D’Isère are fantastic for both beginner and experienced skiers. These resorts also offer great accommodation and facilities for you to relax and kick back after an exhilarating day on the slopes. Each one is a little different, so be sure to do a bit of research into each before choosing which one takes your fancy.

Val D’Isère, France by Andreas Bjärlestam

Accommodation: Communal or self-catered?

Like with any holiday, finding the best accommodation for the best price is half the battle. With ski holidays, the particular resort you’re planning on staying at may dictate the type of accommodation you can book. However most resorts, particularly in the French Alps, have a variety of accommodation types to choose from. Catered accommodation with communal dining may be a great way to meet other families on holiday, and allows you a break from the everyday cooking for your family you do when you’re at home. However self-catered chalets offer a bit more privacy and you may find this suits you a bit more.

Equipment Hire

If this is your first time booking a ski holiday, you won’t likely have your own set of skis. You may however be a seasoned pro, and are planning your kids’ first outing on the slopes. Either way, you’ll want to consider hiring equipment once you’re at the resort. Be sure to do your research into this prior to setting off on your vacation, as once you’re out there you may panic and hire the first set of skis you can find, opening yourself up to a potentially bad deal. Booking this in advance can save you a lot of trouble and give you peace of mind that you don’t need to worry about it once you arrive.

Ski Passes/Lift Passes

So you’ve chosen the resort you like the look of, booked your chalet and organised the hiring of equipment. But you’re not done yet! Don’t forget that if you’re planning on doing any skiing while you’re at the resort, you’ll need ski and lift passes. Do a bit of research into the resort you’re staying at, and make sure you know which areas your passes give you access to.

French Alps by genevieveromier

Ski Schools

Family ski holidays can be great fun, but if you’re a more experienced skier you might get a little bored hanging around the nursery slopes while the kids learn the basics. Some resorts have a few really good ski schools available for kids, where they will enjoy learning on the easier slopes, and can meet other kids their age. More importantly you get the freedom to spread your wings and try your hand at some of the tougher and more exciting slopes in the resort. Again whilst there are some great ski schools out there, not all of them are top class, so be sure to research them, read reviews etc. before committing.

Author Bio
This post was written on behalf of Rental Republic: a ski and snowboard hire company operating in a number of resorts in the French Alps. Their team of experts deliver the ski and snowboard equipment right to your chalet, and also provide free fitting.

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Hence, the annual commemoration of Mardi gras is no exception, as it presents everything from feasts to parades! Literally meaning ‘Fat Tuesday’ in English, Mardi gras is known so since it takes place on the Tuesday that falls shortly prior to Ash Wednesday (the Wednesday that marks the onset of the Lent period, where Christians of all denominations observe sessions of fasting for the following 40 days i.e. till Easter Sunday). Since Lent emphasizes on religious virtues, a grand carnival is organized a day before for one and all!

Mardi gras (Carnival), Marseille, France by Say-Mars-Say-Yeah

Apart from the fun and games, what’s most interesting about this colourful carnival is its diversified history that led to its origin! The story goes –

• That a festival resembling the new-generation Mardi gras was organized every year somewhere during mid-February by the ancient Romans during the second century AD (before the settlement of Catholicism in Europe).

• Once Christianity was established, church priests decided that integrating this particular festival in synchronization to the religious agenda would deem suitable for all individuals, providing a means of enjoyment prior to observing Lent.

So, here we are! Ever since then Mardi gras is dedicatedly celebrated to cheer up the lives of many a person! If you closely observe the flamboyant parades that generally take place in most leading French cities during this season, some traits are common, such as –

• Flaunting a fattened ox in due course of the processions to signify delightfully succulent meaty treats!

• The three primary colours denoting a ‘mascot’ for Mardi gras: purple (for justice), green (for faith) and gold (for power). The finest of outfits and accessories donned by performers, especially masks are seen to be crafted with these three shades!

Due to the rise in popularity of Mardi gras in France, this festival slowly gained recognition in the American state of Louisiana too – primarily in its city of New Orleans. How exactly Mardi gras was introduced to America is not exactly known, for there were arrays of different tales in reference to it. Some say that in 1699, a French explorer named Sieur d’Iberville set up camp 60 miles south of New Orleans and introduced Mardi gras to its local natives. More folklore narrates that a bunch of students who had returned from Paris to Louisiana in 1827 paraded around the streets clad in costumes of purple, green and gold, and hence won the hearts of neighbouring residents, who then began to follow suit.

Needless to say, no matter how, when, why and where Mardi gras originated, the fact that it’s a festival enjoyed by all is enough to consider to keep its tradition going on for generations to come!

Author’s Bio

Megan Tyler  is a journalist and a veteran content writer. She has experience in copywriting and journalism. Presently she is exploring and writing on various subjects but at the moment appended with  Holiday in Namibia.

The post Mardi Gras – Pomp, Gaiety, Splendour! appeared first on Europe Explored.

I enjoy a variety of winter sports and have been fortunate enough to visit a number of leading resorts. Here are my top 10 ski resorts in Europe:

1. Davos

The resort of Davos in Switzerland is most obviously associated with gatherings of the rich and famous. This should not, however, ignore the fact that it is also a location that provides beautiful ski conditions and a wide variety of entertainment.

Davos, Switzerland by Flyout

2. Verbier

The Swiss resort of Verbier is known as a place where you can enjoy luxurious accommodation, great ski conditions, wonderful restaurants and plenty of entertainment in the evenings. If you are looking for thriving nightlife, then Verbier clearly has a lot to offer.

3. St Anton

If you follow professional skiing, then you’ll know that Austria has a rich history in this area. It should come as no surprise, therefore, to see Austrian resorts within this list. The skiing in St Anton is fantastic and it’s worth noting that the resort is popular with leading celebrities too.

4. Levi

One of the advantages of choosing for a resort in Finland is that you’ll find that the ski season there is really extended. Indeed, you may even find that it’s possible to enjoy a ski vacation during the early part of the summer.

At first, you may feel that this seems a little unnatural. My own view is that it’s something that should certainly be embraced.

Levi, Finland by Leo-setä

5. Chamonix

Possibly the finest resort in France, where you can expect to have a pretty impressive experience. From gourmet food to stylish, French chic, this is a location that is not to be missed.

6. Pas de la Casa

Located within the tiny state of Andorra (in the Pyrenees, on the border between France and Spain), I have enjoyed skiing here in the past. If you do get bored, then it’s also nice to know that you have possibilities available to you in southern France and northern Spain, which are both within easy reach of Andorra.

7. Bansko

One of the newly emerging budget resorts, this Bulgarian town offers the skiing and entertainment, with a no-frills atmosphere.

Bansko, Bulgaria by Amorphisman

8. Les Arcs

Les Arcs is a French ski resort that caters to all tastes. Whether you are seeking a luxury escape, or a frugal family break, you’ll find that everything is possible in Les Arcs.

9. Livigno

The Italian resort of Livigno often seems to be overlooked, but it actually offers some fantastic budget skiing options. If you want the excitement of an Italian ski resort, without the high prices, then you can’t go far wrong with Livigno.

10. Kraniska Gora

You may already have heard of some of the resorts that I’ve mentioned, but Kraniska Gora is viewed as being a little away from the beaten track. Young families are often thrilled to spend time in this beautiful Slovenian resort.

Keith Barrett always investigates Verbier ski accommodation online, prior to heading for the popular Swiss resort. He also enjoys planning ski trips and experiencing the thrills offered by the slopes.

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Playing golf by Porto Bay Trade

Gleneagles, Perthshire

If you’re new to golf, then a holiday that includes coaching and lessons is a good idea. Gleneagles in Perthshire offers a great golfing experience for the newbie. The weather might be a bit hit and miss, but hey, golfers are used to that, and you might find that the spa and restaurant make up for any wild Scottish weather. With three championship courses, a pitch and putt practice course and a nine hole academy course perfect for beginners, you will be spoilt for choice. Prices start from £335 per room per night, so it’s not cheap – but they also have plenty of special offers.

Hawkstone Park Hotel and Golf Course, Weston-Under-Redcastle, Shropshire

Two championship golf courses, and a beginners 6 hole course academy course, make this another good choice for anyone new to golf – as well as seasoned players. Set in the spectacular surroundings of ancient parkland overlooked by 18th century follies, Hawkstone Hotel is also a great base for exploring the beautiful borderland of Wales. Hawkstone can even boast their very own custom club builder, Gary Pickering, one of only 20 Master Club Builders in the UK. So if you want to exchange your Titleist D3 driver for a custom built club, Gary is your man. Prices for an overnight stay and day on the course start at £99 per person.

Lough Erne Resort, County Fermanagh

For five star luxury, stunning coastal scenery and brilliant golf, look no further than this incredible golf course and hotel complex, set on a private 600 acre peninsula. With a Nick Faldo designed championship course, this newly built resort won IGTOA Golf Resort of the Year 2010, and is a favourite  of Rory McIlroy. With a state-of-the-art practice and tuition centre, on course attendants, a Thai Spa, a fine dining restaurant, and 120 luxurious rooms, Lough Erne offers the ultimate golfing holiday on the Emerald Isle. A ‘Stay and Play’ break includes one night’s B&B with a round on the course, and starts at only £114 per person. They also have other regular offers, so keep checking back.

The Vale Resort, Cardiff, Wales

For four star luxury, an award winning championship course, a 16 bay floodlit driving range, golf academy with video analysis , swing check and professional coaching, as well as an AA starred restaurant, spa, gym and pool, then the Vale Resort just outside of Cardiff should be on your list. The Wales National Golf Course is a course with ample challenges, tricky water features, terrifying bunkers, and mature woodland. To test your golfing mettle, as well as enjoy the perfect weekend getaway, then head for this highly regarded resort in Wales. Prices from £99 per person.

Rob Rudd enjoys writing, golfing and taking holidays. As such, he feels himself well qualified to write about golfing holidays!

The post Taking A Golfing Holiday appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo by New Brunswick Tourism / License: Creative Commons

Due to the unpredictable Scottish climate, the golfing season in Scotland usually runs from April to August. Although the PGA Centenary Golf Course is one of Scotland’s most famous courses, golf enthusiasts can choose from a range of scenic courses during their trip to Scotland. While most golf ranges also offer accommodation, many visitors opt to stay out with the resort and take advantage of the day passes offered by most ranges. Make sure you get a handicap certificate and an introductory letter from your local golf club before you travel to Scotland.

If you want to experience the best golf that Scotland has to offer, make sure to visit these top golfing ranges:

Royal Troon Golf Club

Founded in the year 1878, the Royal Troon Golf Club has grown to be one of the finest championship courses in the world. The course is home to some of Scotland’s most competitive golfing events and has hosted the Open Championship on eight occasions. The 123 yard 8th hole known as “The Postage Stamp”, is the shortest and one of the most difficult in the history of the Open Championship. Be careful not to get distracted by the stunning views from the course, on a clear day you can see Ailsa Craig and the Isle of Arran.

Loch Lomond Golf Club

A must see for nature lovers, the Loch Lomond Golf club lies on 7,100 yards of parkland on the banks of Loch Lomond and offers golfers spectacular views of the Scottish Highlands. Visitors should look out for the historic Rossdhu Mansion on the estate grounds and the ruins of Rossdhu Castle behind in the 18th hole. Unfortunately, as one of the most exclusive clubs in Scotland, you must either be able to afford the joining fee of £75,000 or be invited to play by an existing member.

Cruden Bay Golf Club

The Cruden Bay Golf Club in Aberdeenshire is a magnificent 18-hole championship course that allows golfers to put their abilities to the test. The rugged tertian is home to blind shots and major elevation changes. World-renowned golfer, Pete Dye once described the location as “outsized, non-conformist, unpredictable, flamboyant.” Yet, the picturesque location, views of Slains Castle and surrounding attractions such as the Donmouth Local Nature Reserve, makes the course a firm favourite amongst golfers from across the globe.

Turnberry Golf Club

The Turnberry Golf Club in Ayrshire is home to the Open Championship’s legendary Ailsa course where the the famous “Duel in the Sun” match between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus occured in 1977. The course comprises of numerous bunkers, small lakes, fairways, and high fescue grasses. Golfers should look out for the course’s most iconic feature, the functional lighthouse that offers stunning sea views. The course attracts visitors from around world who are eager to experience the cliff-top location.

Fiona writes for Moness, luxury 4 star golf & spa resort in the heart of Perthshire.

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