Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain by Alquiler de Coches

Beach Vacation

Tenerife, Canary Islands
Tenerife is the largest of the seven Canary Islands, and a beach-lover’s paradise. A Spanish island and province, it is located off the coast of northwest Africa and features grey-sand beaches, one of the largest volcanoes in the world and a warm tropical climate. Tenerife’s average year-round temperatures are in the mid-20s C, earning it the nickname ‘Island of the Eternal Spring’ and attracting tourists from around Europe and beyond (more than five million annually). Known for its yearly carnival, Tenerife is a surprisingly affordable cheap, even destination, offering fun and relaxing holidays for the whole family.

Rural Retreat

Lake Bled, Slovenia
Slovenia markets itself as the ‘Green Piece of Europe’ and visitors will find plenty of green in Lake Bled, a pristine glacial lake and sleepy resort town just over 30 miles from the capital, Ljubljana. Surrounded by lush woodlands and the towering Julian Alps, the area is a haven for walkers and mountain-bikers. In the middle of the lake is a medieval church, accessible by boat, with stone walls offering stunning views. Overlooking over the lake in the hills above is the medieval Bled Castle, which is available for tours. Families will find Slovenia affordable on the whole, and off-season, visitors will find Lake Bled to be particularly low-cost.

City Break

Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a city on seven hills that still maintains an historic quarter — including original Roman walls — despite several massive earthquakes throughout its history. It is an affordable cultural centre known for its mournful Fado music, unique carriage museum, imposing cathedral filled with the graves of famous Portuguese explorers, and world-famous pastries. Beautiful countryside awaits a short drive from the city, and a view of the sea is never far. Lisbon is continental Europe’s westernmost city and one of the oldest in Europe, predating London. There are two UNESCO sites to visit, though many things of interest in this affordable capital.

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Lago di Garda, Italy by Elliott Brown

Beauty hurts, or is more expensive than the sea
Lago di Garda enjoys a large tourist popularity. This corresponds to a number of first-class hotels and guesthouses. With the mark of prestige, prices are higher here than in other Italian resorts (apartments for around €20, campings for €10).

Even lake queen would not have to be ashamed of the lake – 346 meters depth is really impressive. Glacier Lake Garda was founded thanks to the global warming about 10 thousand years ago. Receding Alpine glaciers created this beautiful water world. The upper part of the lake is narrower, surrounded by great rock massifs. Towards the south, the lake opens up and allows visitors easier access. The lake lies at an altitude of 65 meters. Its maximum depth is 346 meters and if you would like to walk it all around, you have to prepare to about 160 kilometre-long way.

The right place for more demanding tourists and adventure lovers is the northern part of Lake Garda. Biking, hiking, rock climbing is just a fraction of what the area offers. Lake Garda is ideal for active holidays. You find here hundreds of kilometres of marked cycling and hiking trails that lead deep into the mountains, on the water you can enjoy boating, scooters or just play a beach volleyball.

Lago di Garda Italy by Robert Wirrmann

If you decide to go on a proper mountain hike, do not forget the map. It can be obtained in tourist centers or hotels. Losing here is really not hard at all. The ideal starting point for tours is the town of Riva del Garda, where you can go either west or east. The western side offers steep rock walls, suitable more for hiking. The eastern hills are a paradise for passionate cyclists. (You can rent bikes and all the amenities from some of many rental services here, but prices are often quite high).

In addition to alpine tours and resting at blue lake you can also go for culture or rich night life, which is characteristic for Italy and its inhabitants. Visit a town of Riva del Garda. This place is ideal for lovers of history.

Lake Garda, Italy by Marjolein Knuit

In the southern part of the lake, you can visit a spa town Sirmione, known as the “Pearl of Lake Garda.” The Romans built here two castles, ports, and a whopping villa of Grotte di Catullo. On the ruins of one of the ports you can now visit the castle Scaligeri Rocca, which is one of the landmarks of Sirmione.

Glacier Lake Garda is truly one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy. It is suitable for everybody – hikers, adventurers, historians…

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