An area which is rich with such brilliant scenery and landscape is the boarders of France, Switzerland and Italy. Between these three nations lies numerous lakes, all of which taking up a different scale to the last and each offers a varying slice of what Europe can bring to the plate.

It is, of course, possible to experience all of these within the same trip thanks to their reasonably close proximity to each other and propose a great chance to get out in the car and have a true European road trip in one of the most attractive areas of the continent. Taking the car will let you see so much more of the scenery you otherwise would as you have the choice to stop whenever you please. Of course this means budgeting a bit for fuel and those with a SCCI card might want to take advantage of a bit of fuel management.

Geneva/Lausanne

One of the largest lakes in Europe is Lake Geneva, with a maximum length of 45 miles and encompasses a total of six settlements that include Geneva itself, Lausanne and Evian. As a result, the lake covers the boarders of both France and Switzerland.

One of the greatest elements to this part of the world is the superb mountain ranges that often surround the water, but of course the focal points would be visits to the cities of Geneva and Lausanne.

Geneva Lake, Switzerland by Wouter Hagens

Como

Made famous by its acting giants and rock stars who make up a small part of the local population, such as the likes of George Clooney and Muse vocalist Matt Bellamy. However, Como has also been given such a brilliant reputation because of how truly beautiful the landscape is, as well as the town itself.

Going out for a boating trip across the lake or taking in the view by the shore with a drink are just a couple of the things you can enjoy in Como, but away from the water, the buildings of the town are also worth a look in.

Lake Como, Italy by Franco Folini

Maggiore

Sticking with northern Italy, Lake Maggiore is another that crosses boarders as it also reaches into Switzerland.

Maggiore is quite narrow at some points and therefore a boat trip between towns and villages such as Verbania and Arona are logistically viable. Ferries operate daily, so it is possible to visit numerous locations whilst in the area and get a solid grasp on the beauty of the surroundings.

Maggiore Lake, Italy by Franco Folini

About the author: Sam writes for SCCI Carte Carburante Italy, who offer fuel cards for those travelling in Europe.

The post Exploring Europe’s lakes by car appeared first on Best of European Union.

Glastonbury: UK

Whilst festivals such as Reading/Leeds and T in the Park have mounted serious claims to being the UK’s ultimate festival, the history which precedes Glastonbury and its huge attendance still lands it as the number one UK festival. Known for bringing in the biggest headliners, (some of them much unexpected) there is always an eclectic mix of music and performances on display. Rumours for the 2013 headliners include veterans Fleetwood Mac and The Rolling Stones. Tickets are known to sell out as quickly as you can blink, so it is worth monitoring the site to find out when tickets go on sale. You should also pack some wellingtons or heavy duty footwear as it is known to be a victim to torrential rain.

Mud at Glastonbury festival, UK by Joanne and Matt

Benicàssim: Spain

One distinct advantage of attending a music festival in Spain in the summer is the opportunity to watch some of your favourite bands in near perfect conditions. Whilst Spain does get very hot in the summer the festivals close proximity to the coast provides strong breezes to alleviate the intensity of the heat. It has continued to gain popularity over the past few years and people from all over Europe travel to attend the festival. It takes place in a town on the outskirts of Valencia and most people tend to fly in, but a road trip through Europe and over the Pyrenees mountains is also an option for those who want to visit other places en route. Most recent notable acts include The Arctic Monkeys, The Strokes, Kings of Leon, Sigor Ros and Bob Dylan.

Benicàssim Festival, Spain by Renzo Giusti

Outlook Festival: Croatia

Croatia has become a popular European destination mainly due to its great summer climate and the fact it has its own domestic currency which makes local products cheaper for European travellers. Outlook festival has become one of the biggest dance festivals in the world and is renowned for having a diverse range of dance music represented across its stages. It is located in Pula, Croatia which rests on the southwest of the country. There are a number of beaches near the area which makes it a popular festival choice.

Before you begin your journey overseas it is worth investing in a prepaid travel card. Unlike cash you get the benefit of extra security and the ability to monitor your finances online and plan your holiday budget.

About the author: Adam Porteous writing on behalf of ICE. Click here for more information on their prepaid travel cards and travel money offers.

The post Exploring European festivals appeared first on Best of European Union.

Llandudno promenade, North Wales, UK by Denis Egan

Llandudno is a relatively small town with just 20,000 residents, but often swells during spring and summer months from visitors that are keen to see what Llandudno is all about. In this article, we’ll give you a few ideas for things to do and see whilst in Llandudno for a day. Whilst we always suggest staying a few days to get the full experience, visiting the town is always worth going to, no matter when or for how long.

Hopefully you will be in the town in the morning, meaning you can start the day with a spot of breakfast in one of the hotels in Llandudno overlooking the bay or one of the towns many friendly café’s. After you’ve stocked up on some energy, it’s time to start enjoying the town.

In the morning, you should get yourselves over to the tram station at the base of the Great Orme. From here, you can jump on the tram which will give you a scenic, easy and pleasant ride up to the summit of the Orme. You can also drive up- or even walk instead, but you must know it can take a while due to the steepness of the hill. Once you reach the top, you can take in the breathtaking views, ramble through the land, visit the Bronze Age Copper Mine and get a bite to eat or something to drink at the Summit Complex. Kids will love the opportunity to play in the park at the summit and with a mini golf course; you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Great Orme.

Llandudno Pier, North Wales, UK by Denis Egan

Heading down the other side of the Orme will take you back to the main town. We’d recommend taking a wander through Happy Valley and visiting the Victorian Pier as the next point of call. The pier is famous and remains a prime attraction of the town and is home to a range of shops, amusement arcades and bars & eateries. After you’ve checked this out, you could take a wander across the promenade, trip to the artificial ski slope and toboggan run, sit on the beach, browse the extensive selection of shops located on Mostyn Street, Parc Llandudno Shopping Complex and the Victoria Shopping Centre. You can even see if there’s something on at Venue Cymru, where an exceptional range of shows take place throughout the year, allowing the locals and visitors of Llandudno is enjoy some world class entertainment.

Llandudno can be seen in a day, but as you can now see, should most definitely be given a little longer. To experience Llandudno properly, book in at a hotel in Llandudno, providing the perfect base to your memorable adventure.

The post Llandudno in a day – a trip to one of the jewels of North Wales, UK appeared first on Best of European Union.

Llanrhaedr Waterfall, Wales, UK by Velela

An Area Rich in History

Hidden amongst the hills and valleys of Mid-Wales you will discover some of Wales’ most unspoilt villages, which are well known for hosting many historical and meaningful past times. Many pageants are hosted throughout the year to commemorate local traditions. The villages are full of old buildings, churches and chapels which are maintained to help visitors recognise the history of the local area. There are memorials to Welsh men and women who helped carve out a local community in this region in small quieter areas of Welshpool to commemorate their contribution to Welsh history.

Experience Outdoor Adventure and Quaint Farmers Markets

Mid Wales offers a huge variety of activities and attractions in close proximity to Welshpool so no matter where you are, you won’t be far from a memorable time. Nearby Bala opens many doors to a whole new experience of outdoor adventure so whether you fancy a round of golf, sailing on a sublime summer’s day or the challenge of gorge walking there is an activity for everyone. Welshpool also hosts local farmer markets in which visitors can sample and buy local produce.

Powis castle and garden, Wales, UK by Alexander Forst-Rakoczy

The most popular activities in Welshpool include lake and river fishing, beach activities, walking along the Montgomery Canal, visiting the Llanrhaedr Waterfall and the area also has some of the best bird sanctuaries in the United Kingdom. Do not miss out on some of the most popular attractions within Welshpool and the Mid Wales area including Powis Castle, Coed Y Dinas Garden Centre, Llanfair Caereinion railway, Lake Vyrnwy, Bala Lake, technology centre, King Arthurs Labyrinth and Snowdonia National Park. The list goes on and on, so you will never be short of things to do or places to see no matter who you are with!

The post Attractions in Welshpool | United Kingdom appeared first on Best of European Union.

Cambridge University Botanic Garden, UK by Steff

Looking back
The garden, a brain child of Professor John Stevens Henslow, was opened in the year 1831 specifically for the students and teachers of the University of Cambridge. The idea behind the formation of such a beautiful place was to offer perfect respite to the academicians as well as the students. But later on it was noted that people living in the surroundings used to throng there to spend some moments on the lap of nature and to spend the day in fun and frolic.

Trend now
The same trend is going on right at this present time too. People come here, roam here and there ‘under the blue firmament’ and may have read the ‘debonair’ lying on the green grass under the shady trees. From last report available from the garden authority about 200,000 visitors paid visit to the park in the year 2011.

Salient features
The garden contains various types of native plants of the British Isles, dry garden, genetics garden, glass houses to cater plant diversity of our beautiful planet, oceanic islands, mountains and tropical rainforests. Even if you like you may have the scope to join the public events that take place here round the year.

The garden is opened daily from 10 o’clock and the basic admission is £4,5 while kids 0-16 have free access.

For more information visit the official site of Cambridge University Botanic Garden.

The post Cambridge University Botanic Garden – the ideal rendezvous for nature lovers appeared first on Best of European Union.

Royal Ascot, UK by Brittany

Prepare to Queue

Expect plenty of people. As soon as you get off the train, you get herded all day. You can get a ticket to the Silver Ring quite cheaply and this is what I had. Tickets to the Grandstand are more expensive and require a certain etiquette. The Silver Ring gets very busy with big groups of people. You will queue to get into the race course, queue to bet, queue at the bar, queue at the toilets and queue to leave again at the end of the day. Royal Ascot is essentially a social event so it attracts birthday parties and stag and hen do’s. Arrive to the Silver Ring early to get a good spot because grass space is limited and table and chairs even more so. You will end up sitting in close proximity to other groups so be prepared to make new friends!

Dress Up

I was attracted to Ascot for the idea of dressing up. I have no weddings to attend this summer, so when else would I wear a hat? A strict dress code applies in the Royal Enclosure and this year standards were even tighter. Women were no longer allowed to wear fascinators (presumably because the definition of a fascinator has got increasingly varied), had to wear a skirt of modest length and have their midriff covered. Men had to wear a suit and tie in the Grandstand and morning suit in the Royal Enclosure. The Silver Ring has no enforced dress code, but people still dress up in the main making for an excellent fashion show. I wore a cream dress, red wedges, red printed tux style jacket and cream hat. The wedges were essential this year, as the heavy rain made the ground soft. A sprinkling of rain in the morning led to muddy paths developing criss-crossing through the picnic blankets. Which brings me to another thing to expect, British weather.

Bet

Royal Ascot isn’t all dressing up and eating though, there is a primary reason involved in thousands of people gathering at the site, horse racing! Be prepared to bet. I didn’t know much about betting before I went, but it’s easy enough to pick up. I went for a high risk, high gain strategy, which didn’t pay off, but in putting just small token bets on it didn’t matter. Don’t drink too much and get carried away, especially if you haven’t been before. Must importantly, have a fun day out!

Emma writes for fashion and style site www.clothes.org.uk. Click here to read the blog.

The post A Trip to The Races – the iconic horse racing event in the UK appeared first on Best of European Union.