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.

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It has always been something that puzzles me, in that why would someone pay out a lot of money to go on holiday, and then spend the time basically repeating how they live their own lives at home.

Mount Olympus, Greece by Gabriel

Check out our list of top five unusual ideas of activities to do during a visit to Greece – throw the beach towel away and embrace all of what the country has to offer.

Mountain Biking

Many companies promote activities such as hiking across the many natural trails that Greece has to offer, so why not get on a mountain bike to explore the surroundings instead? If you do not wish to explore generally, there are several sites across Greece that have specific trails designed for mountain biking, and most of them are open all year round. Among the most popular sites is Mount Parnitha, which is on the outskirts of Athens.

This mountain can be a great resort in its own right, with a casino and several hotels among its many attractions.

Tactual Museum, Athens

One of only five museums of its kind in the entire world, Athens’ Tactual Museum is set up specifically for partially sighted people. The museum contains copies of many famous works of art an ancient artefacts, and people who can see are even offered the option of wearing a mask so they can experience the full spectacle of why the museum was built.

Climb a Mountain

We have already looked at mountain biking down a mountain, but how about climbing one? Situated midway between the cities of Thessaloniki and Larissa, Mount Olympus is one of the most challenging peaks in the whole of Europe. The mountain is accessible to most people, with the vast majority of the climb being a simple hike, although only trained climbers will reach the very highest peak.

As well as climbing the mountain itself, Olympus is surrounded by many charming villages that contain historical churches and other landmarks.

Paintballing

Paintballing has only recently caught on as a hobby in Greece, having been popular elsewhere for many years. Although perhaps not advisable during the height of summer, a visit to Greece can take an added twist of fun should you decide to go paintballing at one of the many centres popping up across the country.

Skiing at Delphi

While the southern resort of Delphi is best known for its mythical ancient ruins and thriving village, it also offers opportunities for skiing. This is perhaps best booked specifically as part of the holiday, unlike our other ideas which can be organised on impulse upon arriving in the country.

Give your trip to Greece a unique twist with our different and out of the box tourism ideas.

One of the leading Greece holiday websites is Touristorama. The website provides all the information you need to enjoy when you visit Greece and the surrounding islands.

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Chania, Crete, Greece / Fiona Bradley

Manousakis Winery

Situated on the outskirts of the town – about twenty minutes away – is Manousakis Winery, which is known as the best winery in the area. Here, a series of six unique wines are produced and can be sampled any time of the year. Tours are offered year-round and are done via appointment Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6 PM. You will find lots of other fellow wine-lovers on the premises and lunch is provided while on-site.

Conor Pass Irish Bar

You will find this pub in the middle of the Old Harbor area of Chania and it is a rather new addition to the area. The bar has a cozy environment to it and gives you that authentic Irish experience from the time you first walk inside. Kept on tap here is fresh Guinness (imported from Dublin) along with good domestic beer such as Mythos and of course various other selections from around the globe. Live music can also be enjoyed on certain nights; check with the pub for the schedule.

Botanical Park of Crete

While not the same as a booming bar or winery, the Botanical Park of Crete is located in Chania and is a great way to get out in nature and still have a good time. With over 20 acres of pristine biological diversity to explore, you are guaranteed to see something worthwhile. Some of the interesting flora you will witness here includes dozens of fruit trees from all over the world, plants that serve both aesthetic and medical uses as well as various types of herbs. Due to the isolated microclimate, the Botanical Park of Crete is an ideal location for biological diversity.

Pista Park

For a little bit of motorist fun, head down to Pista Park and enjoy the thrill of racing go-karts with your friends, family and other locals. The track is a winding challenge and for just 10 euros, you can race on the track for approximately 10 minutes. Also on sight are food and drink areas, giving you time out to catch a bite to eat between races.

Limnoupolis Water Park

Located literally next door to Pista Park is the Limnoupolis Water Park, which can give you and your family a way to escape the heat after a fun time out on the asphalt. Perfect for those who are in the area for extended stays (your second visit is 50% off), the park has something to offer everyone. Little children can find fun in the non-water play areas in between meals, while adults may find the gigantic water slides appealing. A family of four can gain access to the park for approximately 100 euros for the entire day.

Crete is an amazing tourist destination and you are sure to have an amazing time no matter which time of year you choose to visit.  If you want to make the experience even more special, look into staying in one of the Chania villas – there are lots to choose from and they are so much more luxurious than a run of the mill hotel.

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Vastseliina castle was founded in the 14th century by German knights. It became the border point between the territories of the Teutonic Knights and the Russian area. Until the mid-19th century the area prospered. The castle is situated right on the road to Meremäe.

When you go to the castle away from the former Norman pub, on the left in the valley you will see Vastseliina Park, where a nice 15 km long circular hiking trail starts. This lead along the river up to the north to Suumremetse. Near the ruins there is a map with walking and cycling trails.

To Vastseliina castle you can get a regular bus connection from the metropolis Võru, which goes several times a day. Some buses then continue to the town of Missa.

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