101 short breaks

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  Hong Kong

  Jet lag, it seems, holds little fear for the new breed of short breakers, especially those willing to splash out on a flat bed in business class. Hong Kong, set on a dramatic neon-lit harbour, is Asia’s most thrilling city, a culture shock of night markets and dim sum, songbirds and sampans, backstreet temples and bargain shopping.
  
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  Camping in Holland

  Sling the bikes on the roof rack, throw the roll mats in the boot and head off for a super-affordable break at Camping Duinrell in Holland. More than just a campsite, this is a great base for discovering the delightfully flat Dutch countryside on two wheels, with a gorgeous sandy beach nearby and swimming pools, restaurants and outdoor activities all on site.
  
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  St Ives

  Bathed in sunlight and fringed by sandy beaches, St Ives draws a diverse mix of working artists, holidaying families, surfers and sun seekers. Mix blustery walks along the beaches with visits to the Tate gallery and Barbara Hepworth’s studio, and settle in to the sleek self-catering apartments at Hawke’s Point – a real home from home.
  
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  Boating on the Norfolk Broads

  Boating on the Norfolk Broads has to be one of the most relaxing ways to spend a long weekend, or more. Pottering along at just 5mph is the perfect speed to wind down, relax and take in the National Park scenery, with long stretches of reed marsh and woodland, the banks dotted with picturesque thatched cottages plus the occasional pub for vital victuals.
  
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  Boutique Cotswolds

  For good, old-fashioned romance head to the ridiculously picturesque Cotswolds. The pretty village of Old Minster is home to the 15th-century Old Swan, now a luxurious inn with beautiful, beamed bedrooms, a cosy bar and 65 acres of flower-decked gardens and river front. The flag-stoned dining rooms serve gastropub food at its best.
  
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  Posh tents on country estates

  Always longed to rent a grand country house for a weekend, but just don’t have the budget? Country House Hideout might just be the answer. Sumptuous tented accommodation – all fluffy pillows and sizzlingly hot showers – situated in the grounds of elegant country estates. Ideal for a fun family break, the tents sleep up to eight and have wood-burning stoves and private hot tubs.
  
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  Dog-friendly caravan parks

  If dogs really are man’s best friend, how come they often get left behind while their beloved masters disappear on holiday? Finding pet-friendly accommodation can be tricky, but BreakFree has a whole raft of dog-friendly caravan parks. Most are surrounded by lovely countryside or beaches that offer great walking options, with pools and activities for two-legged visitors too.
  
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  Avignon by Eurostar

  With direct Eurostar services from London’s St Pancras, you can zip down to the Provencal sun in less then six hours. As well as intrinsic interest – including its 14th century ramparts, medieval Palais des Papes and Le Pont of all ponts – Avignon also has direct rail links to Nimes and Aix en Provence.
  
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  A perfect boutique B&B in Wales

  The phrase ’boutique B&B’ could have been invented for Eva and Owain’s chic hideaway in pretty Landeilo. Yomp off into the glorious countryside of the Brecon Beacons National Park, and come back to rainwater showers, robes, and organic tea, coffee and hot chocolate laced with Island Bakery shortbread. Sumptuous beds and slap-up breakfasts complete the deal.
  
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  We’re mad about Madrid

  What do you want from your city break? A shopping spree? The chance to see world-class art? Or maybe nothing more than long, lazy lunches in pavement cafes watching the world go by. The great thing about Madrid is that you can do them all, and whatever your budget there’s a hotel to suit – whether boutique chic or five-star luxury.
  
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  Fitness breaks

  Work on your fitness against a stunningly scenic European backdrop. You’ll stay in considerable comfort whilst a team of personal trainers will design a programme to suit your aims and fitness level. Choose from running, hiking, mountain biking, boxercise, core training and cardio. Relax in the pool and enjoy superb meals on the sun terrace.
  
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  Pen-y-Dyffryn

  Hitting the sweet spot between old-fashioned style and a contemporary feel can be a tall order, but Pen y Dyffryn, on the Shropshire-Wales border, gets it bang on. Cosy without being chintzy, it is set amidst lush rolling hills and wooded glades. A walk across the hills is the best way to work up an appetite for the spectacular dinners.
  
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  Cookery courses in France

  What’s the greater pleasure – cooking or eating? The joy of these short-breaks to La Rochelle and Lyon is that they offer an abundance of both; cookery classes in a professional kitchen, paired with visits to local food markets, wine tastings and plenty of opportunity to dine at the bistros and brasseries that have placed both cities at the top of France’s list of gourmet destinations.
  
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  Rent a lighthouse

  Britain’s coastline is dotted with lighthouses. Whilst technology may have rendered many of them obsolete, you can stay in the former lighthouse keepers’ cottages for a coastal break with a real sense of history plus a guarantee of great sea views and bracing walks. From North Yorkshire to Alderney, there’s a superb choice of locations.
  
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  New York

  If you’re looking for the ultimate short-break, it’s got to be New York. Sip cocktails in the shadow of the Empire State Building, take a stroll through Central Park, soak up the art at MoMA and shop till your credit card drops on the streets of Soho. Western & Oriental have cherrypicked eight of the best hotels, so all you have to do is pack those cocktail frocks and prepare to party.
  
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  Isle of Wight themed breaks

  For sheer variety, nowhere in Britain can match the Isle of Wight. It’s as if all the natural assets of southern England have exhibited their wares on one stall. The island has long been a magnet for lovers of both food and history and now you can take advantage of Wightlink’s new booklets, giving inside-track suggestions on places to see and people to meet.
  
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  Seville

  The city of Seville is a work of art. Even the most well-travelled would be hard pushed to name a more finely-crafted inner city than the Barrio Santa Cruz, a romantic quarter of flower-decked houses and squares cooled by dancing fountains. It’s a scene crying out for the burst of flamenco guitars and castanets.
  
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  Pentre Mawr Country House

  One of our favourite family-run country hotels is Sychnant Pass in North Wales. Now the couple behind it – Graham and Bre Carrington-Sykes – have gone one better and opened Pentre Mawr, a luxurious guest house with pool and fine dining in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Best of all are the safari-style tented lodges with private hot tubs.
  
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  Porto and the Douro Valley

  Portugal’s River Douro winds through one of Europe’s most spectacular landscapes before emptying into the Atlantic at the charming World Heritage city of Porto. Stay in atmospheric quintas and visit centuries-old terraced vineyards to sample the Port that made this region famous, and some delicious local cuisine.
  
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  Battlefield Tours

  You don’t have to be a military history buff to enjoy the drama and emotion of standing in the field of a monumental battle. Neither can you fail to be moved by the cemeteries and memorials, particularly when accompanied by a knowledgeable historian who can bring these haunting landscapes back to life.
  
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  Wine tours worldwide

  Can’t tell a Sancerre from a Sauvignon? Book a wine-themed break with A&C and you’ll be sipping, comparing and learning, while staying in luxurious, authentic hotels and discovering some of the world’s most beautiful wine regions. Foodies are catered for, with fabulous gourmet breaks in France and Italy, and river-cruises and city breaks are also on offer.
  
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  Cottages in East Anglia

  East Anglia houses a trilogy of pleasures: seaside, countryside and Broads-side. Its long coastline offers fine sandy beaches and birdwatching. The interior has market towns and flinty rural churches built on the proceeds of the medieval wool trade. And the huge patchwork of the Broads is a boater’s paradise. Explore from a cosy cottage or stately manor house, yours for the weekend.
  
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  Belfast

  Belfast is a city reborn with a bold new self confidence. Northern Ireland’s capital has long been famed for its historic and atmospheric pubs. Now these are joined by new foodie haunts, a vibrant arts scene, cool boutiques and buzzing bars, making it ideal for a stylish city break.
  
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  Rome

  It wasn’t built in a day, nor can Rome be seen in a weekend – unless you want to charge around like a headless gladiator. Limit your choices by focussing on an area of the city such as the Centro Storico around Piazza Navona with its Renaissance palaces and Baroque fountains. For a retail fix, the stylish Via Condotti is nearby.
  
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  Europe by rail

  It’s official – trains are the new planes, and with high-speed rail links cutting journey times across Europe, there’s never been a better time to take a break by train. Alongside perennial favourites such as Paris and Bruges, quirky cities such as Ghent, Rotterdam and Antwerp are all easy to reach – or if you’re celebrating, book a weekend in Rheims – champagne capital of France.
  
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  Lundy Island

  Lundy, or ‘Puffin Island’, sits in the middle of the Bristol Channel. It’s an escape from the rest of the world with just one pub, a farm, two lighthouses and a year-round population of around 20. You can stay in a cottage, campsite or castle, exclusively available through the Landmark Trust, whose work in restoring and sustaining historic buildings is fantastic.
  
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  Lucknam Park Hotel

  Even the approach to this grand Palladian mansion, along a mile-long drive arching through 500 acres of parkland, is outstanding. Just six miles from Bath, Lucknam Park offers an array of activities including walking trails, horse riding, swimming and tennis, plus fine dining and a superb new spa.
  
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  Activity breaks in the Cotswolds

  Combine a visit to the most classic of English landscapes with a choice of water-based activities on a network of 140 lakes that cover an area the size of Jersey. Using the Cotswold Water Park Hotel and Spa as your base, you can sail, waterski, wake-board, canoe, go fishing and learn to dive.
  
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  Scottish island cruise

  The west coast of Scotland offers a spectacular combination of soaring mountains and tranquil lochs, and the best way to discover them is by boat. These traditional wooden cruisers, with just six cabins, glide between the mainland and the islands, with plenty of time for wildlife spotting, on-shore exploration and tasting the wonderful local seafood.
  
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  Athens and the Acropolis Museum

  Away from the peak months of summer, Athens is perfect for a weekend break, particularly since the opening in 2009 of the New Acropolis Museum, £100m worth of dazzling modern architecture crammed with Classical treasures. Athens also excels at the contemporary, as evidenced by the city’s stylish collection of designer hotels.
  
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  Cultural tours in Britain

  It’s easy to overlook the sheer beauty on our own doorstep. Britain’s rich artistic, architectural and musical heritage lends itself perfectly to the style of holiday offered by Martin Randall Travel: small groups of likeminded people led by expert guides. You could tour the seascapes that inspired Turner, visit grand country houses or walk Hadrian’s Wall.
  
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  Christmas markets in Europe

  A real Christmas market – the air thick with the scents of mulled wine, spiced gingerbread and hot sausages – is a classic festive experience. Forget the sad clutch of tinsel-clad huts that we have in the UK, and head to atmospheric cities such as Cologne, Prague and Munich – proof that Christmas shopping really can be about pleasure rather than pain.
  
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  Nice and the Côte d’Azur

  Nice, the city that inspired the French impressionists, basks in year-round sunshine. It combines the style and flair of Paris with lazy afternoons on the beach and sunset cocktails on the Promenade des Anglais. The elegant streets are dotted with art galleries and boutiques while the picturesque old town is the perfect place for a romantic supper.
  
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  Luxury health, fitness and detox retreats

  If you feel overworked and unfit, give yourself a full service and MOT at a luxury health and fitness retreat. Head to a stunning location from Andalucia to Morocco with an expert team of yoga teachers, personal trainers, nutritionists and massage therapists to tone your body and cleanse your mind.
  
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  Ice Hotel

  Sweden’s famous Ice Hotel might not sound the cosiest place to spend a night, but once you’re wrapped up in a sleeping bag and swathed in reindeer skin your ice-bed will feel deliciously toasty (honestly!). Most guests spend one night in this amazing frozen palace, followed by a night or two in a more conventional hotel room – but it’s a night to always remember.
  
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  Stay in a restored building

  The best holiday houses have a story to tell, and few come with more history than the properties offered by the Vivat Trust. Historic buildings that have fallen into disrepair are rescued by the Trust and painstakingly restored, offering all types of accommodation from picturesque boltholes for two, to spectacular rural halls that are perfect for an unforgettable houseparty.
  
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  Sorrento

  Sorrento has been putting out the welcome mat for British travellers since the 18th century. As well as the stunning clifftop location, it’s ideal for hopping across the Bay of Naples to Capri by boat, taking a spectacular drive along the hairpins of the Amalfi coast, jumping on the train to Pompeii or strolling to the crater summit of Vesuvius.
  
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  The Red Sea

  Although scuba divers are constrained by the safety rules about flying when visiting on a short break, you can still goggle at the underwater marvels of the Red Sea as well as enjoy the resort’s broad menu of watersports and safaris in the desert which spreads beyond the back door. The weather is hot and the water warm year round and the hotels are excellent.
  
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  Florence

  The crucible of the Renaissance, Florence is packed with art and architectural treasures. You can avoid the inevitable crowds by travelling out of season, but if you are tied to busy times at least lower your stress levels by pre-booking timed entry to the Uffizi. Best time to see David is when the doors of the Galleria dell’Accademia open.
  
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  Vienna

  Brimming with tradition and oozing with culture, Vienna is the place to hear Strauss, see countless works of art and be overwhelmed by pompous, imperial architecture. Even a break for coffee and cake involves stepping back in time. Ride the famous ferris wheel in the Prater and you’ll be in the heart of the Hapsburgs’ hunting ground.
  
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  Riga

  Riga is a buzzing, cosmopolitan city of parks and boulevards, opera houses, coffee shops and galleries. The Latvian capital has an attractive Old Town with winding cobbled streets and medieval churches – and don’t miss the outstanding Occupation Museum. It’s extremely good value with 3-night breaks starting at £299 including flights.
  
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  Go on location

  Never quite got over your Sex and the City addiction? Still glued to box sets of Boston Legal? Then book an On Location tour and get the insider skinny on bars, cafes, parks and diners in New York or Boston that have featured in both series, along with movies such as When Harry Met Sally, Spiderman and The Town.
  
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  Private jet holidays

  Private jet travel is not the sole preserve of the mega rich. Get together with a few friends and a trip to Paris and lunch at a Michelin-starred restaurant can cost less than £1,000 each. It’s not just the onboard luxury you’ll love. You can fly from a hassle-free local airfield and even if you’re late, the aircraft will wait for you.
  
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  Istanbul

  Even with only a few days in Istanbul, you can gaze in wonder at the Topkapi Palace and harem, the Blue Mosque, St Sophia, The Grand Bazaar and the spice market. The big decision is whether to stay on the banks of the Bosphorous for a tranquil retreat, or pick a hotel in the thick of it.
  
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  Luxury breaks in Jersey

  Jersey was once known for cream teas and coach tours. Now a new generation of visitors is discovering its wild unspoilt beaches which are ideal for thrilling activities such as blokarting and sea kayaking. The island also offers excellent seafront hotels and fine dining – not least the stylish Atlantic, with Michelin-starred cuisine, swimming pools and golf.
  
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  Visit Santa in Lapland

  Take a pre-Christmas trip to Finnish Lapland and see the real Santa on his home turf. Children get a private audience with the bearded one, and there is plenty of time for fun in the snow, with husky sled rides, snowmobile jaunts, tobogganing and ice fishing all included.
  
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  Book a hostel

  A hostel might conjure images of crowded dorms and sweaty socks on radiators, but the reality today is very different, with chic city-centre retreats, many with private rooms. There are quirkier options too, such as a floating hotel on the Danube. Check out HostelBookers, which has 20,000 properties around the world at recession-friendly prices.
  
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  Extreme Dubai

  Dubai is one of the world’s most exciting glamorous destinations, but we’ve found a specialist company that can turn it into a full-on white knuckle ride. Drive a buggy across the desert, take a tandem sky dive over the Palm, race an Aston Martin around a Formula 1 circuit or scuba dive with sharks.
  
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  Iceland adventure

  Although you tend to hear more about its financial difficulties than its natural assets, Iceland is a magnificent wilderness of glaciers, hot springs, fjords, waterfalls and whales – illuminated by the midnight sun in summer and the Northern Lights in winter. A jeep safari is the perfect way to delve deep.
  
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  Reykjavik city breaks

  Reykjavik is a youthful, compact, friendly city set in dramatic countryside and less than three hours’ flying time from the UK. Wander around art galleries and museums, linger in stylish restaurants and cosy coffee bars then take a healing dip in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon. If you have the energy, party the night away at the city’s legendary bars.
  
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  Paris

  Planning a trip to Paris should be easy – book the train, find a hotel and hey presto, you’re en vacances. Only it’s rarely that simple – trawling though endless websites to find the lowest prices can feel like hard work. That’s where Trivago comes in. It scans over 130 websites to find the best deals – from five-star luxe to a budget Left Bank B&B, with prices from £40 per night.
  
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  Cycling breaks

  The ideal way to get to know the richly diverse landscapes of Catalonia is on two wheels. Travelling from the mountains to the sea, you’ll pass through medieval hill towns, vineyards, forests and fishing villages. Each evening your luggage will be waiting at your hotel, so you can unwind over a delicious meal featuring regional food and wine.
  
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  Rent a historic house

  Downton Abbey may be over for another season, but that’s no reason to let standards slip! Book a break with Stately Escapes to stay at some of Britain’s most elegant properties – from Georgian townhouses that sleep six, to grand country estates that sleep sixty. All can be rented for exclusive use, with properties in Scotland, England and Wales.
  
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  Gourmet Channel hops

  It may be just a hop across the Channel but in pockets of the Pas de Calais you’ll feel as immersed in the “real” France as if you’d driven half way across the country. Authentic, simple and great value, auberges such as d’Inxent and Hostellerie de Tourelles tick every box, not least for their excellent cooking and low-key charm.
  
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  Constable country

  The Stour and Dedham Valleys in Essex-Suffolk border country are where you’ll find the landscapes immortalised by John Constable. Inspect scenes little changed since they were first canvassed, including Flatford Mill and the parish church at Dedham. Our choice of hotel is the stylish but informal family-run Maison Talbooth.
  
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  Exotic Marrakech

  The big decision in magical Marrakech is whether to stay in town in a traditional riad, or outside the city walls. We favour the tranquility, sense of space and incandescent night skies of the latter, in a hotel like Tigmi, a 30-minute drive from the souks, snake charmers, acrobats and fortune-tellers of Djemaa el Fna.
  
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  Cookery course in Spain

  A cookery course is a great way to immerse yourself into the culture of a destination. Not only will you have fun learning new techniques in the kitchen, you’ll visit markets, meet local people and fellow foodies. For a taste of the ‘real Spain’, head to Annie’s Casa Alegre kitchens in the majestic hills of Andalucia. Yum!
  
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  The Grove

  The Earl of Clarendon’s stately pile, just 18 miles from London’s Hyde Park, is all about urban chic in the countryside. The seemingly endless activities on offer at The Grove are top notch, and the 300-acre setting is nothing short of spectacular. It’s also a handy bolthole for sheer indulgence, relaxation – and not a hint of bling.
  
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  Paris with young kids

  A city break with kids? If it sounds like a recipe for a high-stress weekend, try Family Twist, which aims to make cities such as Paris as accessible and enjoyable for families as loved-up couples. Every aspect, from child-friendly accommodation to activities such as treasure trails and cookery classes, can be pre-organised, helping to create a family jaunt to remember.
  
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  Aldeburgh

  On the Suffolk Heritage Coast, Aldeburgh is one of Britain’s prettiest seaside towns. The Wentworth Hotel gazes across the shingle beach with an air of solid reassurance. Brightly furnished with antiques, log fires and Russell Flint prints, special touches include binoculars in its sea-facing rooms and a bar menu that occasionally lapses into Swahili.
  
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  Weekends for singles

  If you’re single, by choice or circumstance, there’s no need to holiday on your own. Travel in company with a singles specialist such as Solos which has a wide choice of fun-packed breaks at home and abroad, all hosted by a tour leader who will ensure everyone mixes and gets the most from their trip.
  
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  National Trust working holidays

  Looking for something more meaningful from your next break? The National Trust runs hundreds of working holidays where you can chip in with tasks such as herding goats and repairing drystone walls. Starting at just £60, these breaks allow you to meet like-minded people while helping to conserve the countryside.
  
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  Ultimate family weekend break

  There are few trickier customers than sulky teenagers, but hand them a surfboard and a wetsuit and they invariably brighten up. Surfing is just one of the activities offered to families at Penha Longa in Portugal, along with tennis, golf, cycling and horse-riding. Younger children can join others for a host of activities while weary Mums retreat to the Six Senses spa.
  
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  Cycling in Gozo

  Outside of the peak summer months, the Maltese island of Gozo makes for a tranquil escape with its excellent winter sun. Cycle through sleepy hamlets and lush valleys past Baroque churches and honeyed stone farmhouses. Stop for a dip at Ramla beach and try the surprisingly good Gozitan wines and the freshest fish.
  
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  Seaside lodges in Cornwall

  There’s something unique about Cornwall’s Atlantic coast – perhaps it’s the drama, huge waves rolling onto wide sandy beaches. Stay in one of the five-star lodges at Gwel an Mor and you’re just ten minutes from the beautiful beach at Portreath, surrounded by lush countryside. Alongside the lodges there’s a heated pool, restaurant and a full programme of kids’ activities.
  
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  Venice

  Described by Truman Capote as “like eating an entire box of chocolate liqueurs in one go”, Venice is a city built for show, its sights global icons of art and architecture. Its canals and bridges make it ideal for wandering – and getting lost. Let the magic rather than a map take over. If you’ve never been, you’re in for one of travel’s most romantic treats.
  
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  Cottages in Cornwall

  Spend a day walking the coastal paths of Cornwall and you might wonder why Brits ever bother to travel abroad. The undulating hills, secret sandy coves and soaring cliffs are as fine as you’ll see anywhere. With great local restaurants and superb self-catering cottages, this is paradise on your doorstep.
  
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  The Lake District

  Walking is bound to be the prime focus for anyone wanting to enjoy the Lake District, the region that put the great in England’s Great Outdoors. But guests at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House can also indulge in other activities including fishing with a ghillie or golfing with a pro at Windermere Golf Club. Back at base, a spa and superb three AA Rosettes food await.
  
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  Holiday villages in France

  Head for the golden beaches of northern France where Pierre & Vacances has a selection of holiday villages in Normandy, Picardy and Brittany. They offer comfortable self-catering accommodation in villas, cottages and apartments, while the on-site restaurant, shop and swimming pools make life easy for everyone.
  
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  Golf and tennis in the sunshine

  Sport. Whichever you choose – golf, tennis, football or cricket – wouldn’t it be nice to be, well, a bit better at it? Book a short-break at La Manga and you can polish up your putting skills, sharpen up your serve and volley, with some of the best facilities – and coaches – in Europe. And for anyone with a budding Beckham in the family, there’s plenty of courses for kids too.
  
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  Budapest

  We all love a buy one, get one free deal. Sadly, it doesn’t often work with city breaks, but book a trip to beautiful Budapest and you get two cities for the price of one. The older part, Buda, boasts stunning Gothic architecture and pretty cobbled streets, while across the river Pest has wide boulevards, tranquil parks and buzzy cafe culture.
  
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  UK cycling breaks

  One of the best things about a Saddle Skedaddle cycling break is that you don’t have to be Chris Hoy to enjoy it. All levels of cyclists are catered for, from gentle weekends in the Cotswolds to full-on mountain-bike marathons through the Welsh mountains. Accommodation is all pre-booked, with the accent on cosy B&Bs with splendiferous breakfasts to get you ready for the off.
  
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  Madeira

  The sub-tropical island of Madeira is a perfect winter sun destination for those that want to do more than fly and flop. Set against a backdrop of dramatic cliffs, mountains and lush valleys, Madeira offers an outstanding choice of hotels, including some beautifully-restored quintas, great local restaurants and 600 miles of marked walking trails.
  
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  Petra

  One of the classic ‘see before you die’ destinations, the rose red city of Petra, carved straight out of the sandstone escarpment, ranks alongside the Pyramids as a triumph of ancient architecture. With its scores of temples, palaces, theatre, tombs and a museum, it’s a rewarding destination, even if only for a short stay.
  
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  City breaks in Germany

  Feel like somewhere different for a city break? Germany has some of the most fascinating cities in Europe – there are the flamboyant streets of Berlin, the architectural beauty of Dresden and the art collections of Cologne for starters. From grand palaces to medieval streets, each city its own distinctive character, cuisine and appeal.
  
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  Disneyland Paris

  Disneyland Paris has come a long way since it opened its doors in 1992. It now comprises two outstanding theme parks with many new rides and attractions to wow adults and teenagers, as well as younger children. Easy access by Eurostar or road, plus seven themed hotels on site and generous family deals make this an easy, well-priced treat.
  
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  Breaks in St Petersburg

  St Petersburg is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Its art collections, palaces and grand architectural set pieces are matched only by its magnificent hotels. Whether you go in winter when the snow is thick under foot, or in summer when the “white nights” offer dazzling evening skies, you’ll be beguiled.
  
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  Sandwich in Kent

  Sandwich is a real gem. One of the best-preserved medieval towns in England, it is a charming little place, its fascinating nooks and crannies easily explored on foot. At its heart, beside the River Stour, is the Bell Hotel which has great-value rooms and superb local food. Perfect for a weekend.
  
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  UK party houses

  If you’re planning a family gathering to celebrate a special birthday or anniversary, or want to get together with friends for the weekend, consider renting a large house. Some of the grander mansions give you the option of a private chef, so you can ensure everyone is fed and watered without having to fret about shopping, cooking or washing up.
  
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  Tromso and the Northern Lights

  Elusive, unpredictable and utterly unique – the Aurora Borealis illuminates the northern skies in winter with impromptu displays of vivid colours rolling across the sky. For the best chance of catching the show, head to Tromso in the north of Norway – surprisingly easy to reach from the UK, and a fascinating place to visit.
  
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  Golfing breaks in France

  Trying to plan the annual golfing break with the boys, but budget proving a problem? Stay at one of these holiday villages for great golf on your doorstep, with comfortable accommodation that won’t break the bank. Some villages – such as Port Bourgenay in the Vendee and Moliets on the Cote d’Argent – have on-site courses.
  
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  Palma, Mallorca

  Palma is the perfect weekend break destination. The main boulevards offer great shopping potential, while quarters like La Lonja seethe with atmospheric tapas bars and bodegas. There’s history at the spectacular Gothic cathedral and 10th-century Arab Baths, world-class art at the Palau March or the Fundacion Joan Miro, and an impressive collection of chic boutique hotels.
  
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  Swimming breaks

  Love swimming? Rather than plough up and down your local pool, why not enjoy the beauty and freedom of swimming in open water, in the Lake District, the Norfolk Broads or cruising down the Thames in Oxfordshire. A swim guide, safety boat, overnight accommodation and luggage transfers are all included.
  
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  Hiša Franko, The Soca Valley

  In the pristine setting of Slovenia’s Soca Valley – perfect for walking breaks – is one of our favourite small hotels in Europe. Hiša Franko has stylish modern rooms flooded with natural light above a world-class restaurant. Owners Valter and Ana are delightful and the eight-course tasting menu is sensational, as well as being great value.
  
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  Hvar – the new Ibiza

  Pack your slinkiest sundresses and a pair of Jackie O shades and prepare for a weekend-long cocktail hour on the island of Hvar, the St Tropez of New Europe. Suncani Hvar have refurbished a clutch of hotels around picturesque Hvar Town, with a vibe that is Ibiza via Miami – slouchy cream sofas, contemporary art and sleek bedrooms with wonderful views.
  
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  Cities of Flanders

  Anywhere that has a joint love affair with beer and chocolate has to be a great bet for a short break, and the quirky towns and cities in Belgian Flanders serve up both in abundance. Choose picturesque Bruges – all tranquil canals and cafe-lined squares – or quirky Ghent, with its atmospheric, medieval centre. Or try historic Ypres or little-known Leuven or Mechelen.
  
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  Yoga short break

  Have you ever returned from a holiday feeling you need another one to recover? That won’t happen with a yoga break. Spend a few days in a stylish retreat enjoying yoga classes with world-class teachers and healthy food and you’re guaranteed to arrive home feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
  
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  Cairo

  Cairo is home to one of the world’s finest museums, a collection of ancient treasures that includes King Tut’s gold death mask. Must-sees include the Pyramids and the Sphinx, but lesser known sights are equally memorable, including the amazing warren of traders in the Khan el Khalili market and Mohammed Ali’s castle-like mosque.
  
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  Kiev

  Straddling both banks of the Dnipro river, Kiev is one of the new generation of city break contenders. Its sights, survivors of Mongol and Nazi invaders and including museums, theatres and World Heritage churches, made it a finalist in the 2010 European City of Culture – but you’ll also relish the tree-lined boulevards and abundance of greenery.
  
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  Wellness weekend in Italy

  Keen to lose a few pounds, or shift into a more healthy way of eating but don’t have the time for a week of bootcamp? Essential Escapes has a great range of short-break wellbeing trips, including a four-day break at the gorgeous L’Albereta hotel in Lombardy that combines spa treatments, nutritional advice, exercise and a wonderful location deep in the Italian countryside.
  
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  Tunis

  Flying time from the UK is less than three hours, making Tunis an ideal exotic weekend break. The food is superb, there’s a medieval souk barely touched by tourists, Roman ruins and the Bardo, one of Europe’s top museums. Don’t miss the treasures of Carthage and the stylish seafront village of Sidi Bou Said.
  
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  Garden tours

  Fancy a stroll through the Dutch tulip fields in early Spring? A guided tour of the spectacular gardens at Tresco in the Isles of Scilly? Brightwater Holidays specialises in garden-themed trips around the UK and further afield, from famous public gardens such as Alnwick in Northumberland and Monet’s home at Giverny, to private estates in Scotland and flower festivals in Europe.
  
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  Dubrovnik city breaks

  The millennium-old walled city, Byron’s ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ with its honey-stoned buildings, terracotta roofs and cobbled streets has been fully restored to pearly perfection after its wartime pounding. Built by the Venetians, Dubrovnik gives easy access to a choice of islands just a short ferry hop away.
  
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  Luxury ski weekend

  Short ski breaks can involve more time faffing around than actually on the piste. Book with Powder Byrne and they’ll do everything for you; pick the best resort, arrange transfers and guides, book fabulous lunch spots and private shuttles to the best runs. All you need to do is slip on your ski boots and hit the slopes.
  
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  Special events in Italy

  Planning a short-break to Italy? Pick your date with care, as there are dozens of unique events and festivals taking place throughout the year that can make a break truly memorable. Join the party at the iconic Venice Carnival in February, watch the spectacular Il Palio horse race in Siena in June or July, or listen to world-class music at the Verona Opera Festival or the Ravello Music Festival.
  
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  Surfing in Cornwall

  You may not master surfing in a couple of days, but you’ll get a taste of this fun, exhilarating sport, and quite possibly get hooked. Cornwall is the place to learn with its gorgeous safe beaches. Head for the sheltered and pretty Harlyn Beach for top quality tuition on a regular surf board or try the easier Hawaiian-style stand-up paddleboarding or sea-kayaking.
  
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  Tailor made Scotland

  Who doesn’t love a road trip? Spend a few days driving along the spectacular coastal roads and mountain highways that link Scotland’s seaside resorts and inland villages, stopping for slap-up seafood lunches, whisky-tastings and bracing walks on gorgeous beaches. Or take a trip by rail on the West Highland Line to the beautiful Isle of Skye.
  
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  Glamping in Cornwall

  Yet to be convinced about glamping? Book into Trevella Park, near to the glorious beach at Crantock, and the comfy beds, fluffy duvets and fridges that come with the safari tents should help to convince you. The site itself is pleasingly free of ‘entertainment’ and instead offers nature trails, fishing lakes and a heated outdoor pool.
  
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  Wine tasting in Gloucestershire

  English wine is alive, well and very much in the ascendancy according to discerning quaffers, both at home and abroad. In Gloucestershire you can not only visit one of the largest vineyards in the country, the 100 acre Three Choirs, but you can also sleep and dine on site – so there’s no need to limit your testing of their fine pinot noirs and other produce.
  
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  Sicily

  History, architecture and long, sandy beaches combine to make Sicily the perfect choice for an Italian short break. Choose from a city weekend among the faded grandeur of Palermo, or a chilled-out foodie few days among the trattorias and locandas of Syracuse. Drive up Mount Etna, eat gelati on the promenade in Cefalu and sip cocktails at sunset in pretty Taormina. Bellissima.