SPAIN ALICANTE
THE INSIDER… Juan Marin is an airsoft player and an area Airsoft Association manager. Airsoft is a military-strategy game played with replica guns.
HIS TIPS…
EL RACO DE MAMA LOLA: Mediterranean cuisine with Andalusian tinges. Enjoy fresh fish from Santa Pola port and stone-fried meat. 1 Calle de Alfredo Mira Gran, Elche, tel: +34 965 429736
SUQUER CAFÉ: A cheerful terrace for breakfast in the morning, coffee in the afternoon and dancing at night. 10 Calle Pedro Ibarra, Plaza de la Merced, Elche, www.suquer.com
RESTAURANTE EL TIO COLLONET: Cruise to Tabarca from Santa Pola (€17 return, www.cruceroskontiki.com) and eat the local fish dish, caldero, in this cosy restaurant. 27 Calle Arzola, Tabarca, tel: +34 965 970599
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 9km south-east of Alicante city centre. Buses to central Alicante depart every 40 mins. Journey about 40 mins; fare €1.There are regular buses to Murcia and Benidorm. Taxi approx €13 to Alicante, €58 to Benidorm. www.aena.es
SARDINIA Alghero
THE INSIDER… Papi Verde runs the Campsite La Mariposa in Alghero as well as the local pizzeria, bike rental and pub. He devotes two hours a day to kite surfing, paragliding and climbing. www.lamariposa.it
HIS TIPS…
PORTO FERRO BEACH: About 26km from Alghero, this is a best-kept secret of locals. Sheltered by forest, yet exposed to north-westerly winds, so it’s ideal for surfers and kite surfers. www.visit-alghero.com
CAFFÉ LATINO: The setting of this bar on the old town’s bastioni (city walls) makes it the perfect place for a sunset aperitivo. Bastioni Magellano, Alghero, tel: +39 079 976541
LE PINNETTE: This traditional restaurant, on the San Giulliano Country Estate, where the olives for their famous olive oil are grown, is renowned for its wood-fired cooking of porcetto sardo (suckling pig). Via Carrabuffas, Alghero, www.lepinnette.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 10km from Alghero. Buses depart for Alghero from 5.20am, then every hour from 6am to 11pm, journey approx 25 mins, fare €0.70. Taxi fare approx €20. www.aeroportodialghero.it
SPAIN Almeria
THE INSIDER… José Javier Fajardo loves driving his 4×4 and quads in the arid, American West look-alike area of Almeria, with his Bestialquad mates. www.bestialquad.com
HIS TIPS…
EL CRIFER: No visit to Almeria would be complete without eating tapas. Try this restaurant’s grilled potatoes and migas (bread crumbs in olive oil with sardines or black pudding) with a frozen beer in your hand. 63 Blas Infante Avenida, tel: +34 950 226330.
RODALQUILAR: This former goldmine town, abandoned during the 60s, was recently refurbished to help the visitors imagine the worker’s life. 55km east from Almeria, in the Cabo de Gata Natural Park, www.degata.com
MINI HOLLYWOOD (ABOVE): This fake Western village was once the location for films like For a Few Dollars More and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Now it’s a funfair where you can watch Western shows. 340 Carretera Nacional, km 464, Tabernas, tel: +34 950 365236.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 11km east of the city. Airport buses depart every 45 minutes weekdays, every half hour weekends. Journey about 30 mins, fare €1.15. Taxi approx €15. www.spanish-airport-guide.com
NETHERLANDS Amsterdam
THE INSIDER… Skatepark Amsterdam’s manager, Michael Groenewegen, maintains local halfpipe facilities for the cool kids. www.skateparkamsterdam.nl
HIS TIPS…
WESTERPARK: Once a municipal gas works, this funky suburban space is now home to a theatre, cinema and art gallery. Its gashouder, a disused gasometer, is a popular party venue. 8 Hararlemmerweg, www.westergasfabriek.nl
PARADISO: Locals go berserk at this excellent venue – a converted church – which is a great place to go for a gig. 6-8 Weteringschans, www.paradiso.nl
MARNIX SPORTS CENTRE: Visit historic Marnixstraat for the Marnix sports complex with its two swimming pools and safe bike parking. The Marnixbowl skate park is just down the road. 1 Marnixplein, www.hetmarnix.nl
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 14km from Amsterdam. A shuttle service runs between the airport and city approx every 10 mins, from 6am to 9pm. Journey approx 20 mins; fare €11 one-way, €17.50 return. Trains run from the airport to the city 24 hours a day. Journey approx 20 mins; fare €3.80. Taxi approx €45. www.schiphol.nl
SPAIN Barcelona
THE INSIDER… Bike polo enthusiast Alejandro Carrillo is a member of fixed-wheel bikes collective Enciclika and is currently designing his own bike accessories collection. www.enciclika.com
HIS TIPS…
MADAME JASMINE: Delicious sandwiches, cocktails and friendly staff in a quirky setting right in the heart of the Raval quarter. 22 Rambla del Raval, tel: +34 607 880443
PLAZA DEL SOL: During summer, this square gathers grannies in dressing gowns, hipsters, buskers and other local characters. You can sit on one of the benches or wander around and chat to strangers with a €1 beer in your hand.
PLAZA DE LA HISPANITAT: Protected from car noises and the city’s mayhem, this small park is the meeting point of the bike polo community in Barcelona. Watch bike polo here on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10.30pm.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 19km south-east of the city. Buses to Barcelona leave every seven to 15 mins, 6am to 1am. Journey approx 40 mins; fare €4.05. Trains to the city centre run every 30 mins, from 6am to 11.30pm. Journey approx 30 mins; fare €2.50. Taxi approx €20. www.aena.es
NORTHERN IRELAND Belfast
THE INSIDER… Sarah-Louise Carmichael works at The Jungle, an extreme adventures company which introduced both paintballing and zorbing to the Emerald Isle. 60 Desertmartin Road, Moneymore, Northern Ireland, www.thejungleni.com
HER TIPS…
L’ETOILE: A decent French restaurant in Belfast? It has to be sampled to be believed. 407 Ormeau Road, tel: +44 (0)28 9020 1300
COMEDY AT THE EMPIRE: Every Tuesday night this excellent venue has top stand up. 42 Botanic Avenue, www.thebelfastempire.com
BELFAST BLACK CAB TOURS: Explore the city at your own pace and see all the sights in style at £25 for three. Tel: +44 (0)28 9099 6313, www.belfastcitysightseeing.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 29km north-west of Belfast city centre. The Airport Express 300 service to central Belfast departs every 10 mins, Monday to Friday; every 20 mins on Saturdays and every half hour on Sundays. Journey approx 40 mins; fare £6. Taxi fare approx £25. www.belfastairport.com
ENGLAND Birmingham
THE INSIDER… Founding director of Teamworks Karting, Simone Schehtman, offers team-building sessions for all ages and abilities. Her flagship Birmingham circuit has the fastest go-karts in the UK. 202 Fazeley Street, www.teamworkskarting.com
HER TIPS…
CANAL WALKING: A must for visitors. Depending on where you draw the city boundaries, Birmingham has more canals metre for metre than Venice. Download a map of walks from www.waterscape.com/canals-and-rivers/bcn
SYMPHONY HALL: Take every opportunity to enjoy this first-class venue, home to the globally renowned City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. Symphony Hall, Broad Street, www.thsh.co.uk
CHOUCHOUTE: From the French word for pampered, this absolutely awesome chocolaterie makes handmade ganaches and pralines – perfect souvenirs! 40 Great Western Arcade, www.chouchoute.co.uk
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 13km south-east of the city. Airport Link buses to central Birmingham leave every 20 to 30 mins. Journey approx 15 mins; fare £1.50. Take the free Air-Rail monorail to the city centre. Taxi approx £17. www.bhx.co.uk
FRANCE Bordeaux
THE INSIDER… Christophe Pichet is the director of Sand Fly Paragliding School on the Dune du Pyla – France’s top paragliding spot. Plage le Petit Nice, Pyla sur Mer, Arcachon, www.sand-fly.com
HIS TIPS…
KITE SURFING: There are a number of adventure activities on the Bassin d’Arcachon, a natural harbour 70km from Bordeaux. Kite surfing is the latest sport to catch on here. Try Alex Kite, 45 Avenue du Mareshal de Lattre de Tassigny, La Hume, www.alexkite.com
L’ESTACADE: A great favourite with English visitors, L’Estacade is a modern restaurant on the river serving seafood and regional specialities in a superb setting and not too expensive.
Quais de Queyries, Bordeaux, www.lestacade.com
LA PLACE DU PARLEMENT: Beautiful, lively square just steps from the heart of the main shopping area. The buildings have charming Louis XV façades and around the square are several good restaurants and cafés.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 11km west of the city centre. Buses depart for Bordeaux every 45 mins from 7.45am to 10.45pm. Journey approx 40 mins; fare €7. Taxi approx €30. www.bordeaux.aeroport.fr
ENGLAND Bournemouth
THE INSIDER… Ollie Rowlands, of helicopter flying school Bournemouth Helicopters. Building 444, Viscount Road, Aviation Park West, Bournemouth Airport, Christchurch, www.bournemouthhelicopters.co.uk
HIS TIPS…
CAFÉ SHORE: Right on Poole Harbour, this is more than just a café, with five-course meals, cocktails and sea views. 10-14 Banks Road, Sandbanks, Poole, www.cafeshore.co.uk
BOURNEMOUTH BALLOON: A treat for the summer months, this static balloon takes tourists up to 152m from the gardens beside Bournemouth pier. www.bournemouthballoon.com
THE PAVILLION THEATRE: This handsome art deco venue hosts comedy, theatre, ballet, opera, pantomime and music events. Westover Road, Bournemouth, www.bic.co.uk
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 7.6km north of Bournemouth. The Airport Shuttle bus leaves hourly from 7am to 7pm to the town centre, journey approx 25 mins; fare £4 (€6). The shuttle also stops at the Travel Interchange for easy access to the national rail network. Taxi to town centre approx 15 mins; fare £16 (€18). www.bournemouthairport.com
WALES Cardiff
THE INSIDER… Mark Soanes, director of Call of the Wild, which leads activity holidays and team-building adventures in the Brecon Beacons. Ty Anturiaeth, 83 Church Road, Seven Sisters, Neath, www.callofthewild.co.uk
HIS TIPS…
ST FAGAN’S NATIONAL HISTORY MUSEUM: This is an open-air museum with a collection of Welsh buildings from the last 800 years. It’s free to get in and a wonderful place for families. Four miles west of Cardiff City Centre, just off the A4232, www.museumwales.ac.uk
BAY ISLAND VOYAGES: Take a rigid inflatable boat out into the Bristol Channel for an exhilarating ride and a unique way to see Cardiff Bay. Opposite the Pierheaad building, Cardiff Bay, www.bayislandvoyages.org.uk
DOCTOR WHO UP CLOSE (ABOVE): A permanent exhibition of Doctor Who memorabilia and props. Red Dragon Centre, Cardiff Bay, www.doctorwhoexhibition.com/cardiff.html
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 19km west of Cardiff city centre. Airbus Xpress buses to central Cardiff run regularly Mon-Sat, hourly on Sun. Journey approx 40 mins; fare £3.40. Taxi approx £24. www.tbicardiffairport.com
GERMANY Cologne
THE INSIDER… Cologne resident Peter Volk works at Indoor Skydiving Bottrop, an hour from Cologne airport, where folks can experience realistic freefall. 297 Prosperstrasse, Bottrop, www.indoor-skydiving.de
HIS TIPS…
CÖLNER HOFBRÄU FRÜH: Close to the famous Cologne Cathedral, this popular brewery restaurant serves great local specialities, plus – natürlich! – their own beer, brewed to a 100-year-old recipe. 12-18 Am Hof, Cologne, www.frueh.de
DEUTZER BRÜCKE: The first bridge on this site was built way back in the 3rd century, linking central Cologne with the right-bank area. Take a stroll to see it as its best when it’s illuminated at night.
SCHOKOLADEN MUSEUM: The highlight of any visit to this museum of treats is the enormous chocolate fountain that holds gallons of molten chocolate. Mmm. 1 Rheinauhafen, Cologne, www.schokoladenmuseum.de
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 16km from Cologne city centre. S-Bahn trains (S13) make the 15-minute journey to the Hauptbahnhof (central station) up to three times per hour (€2 per adult, €1 per child). Taxis cost approx €25. www.koeln-bonn-airport.de
CROATIA Dubrovnik
THE INSIDER… Ivana Grzetic, who was Miss Croatia 1998, shares her passion for sea kayaking with others through her company Adria Adventure. www.adriaadventure.hr
HER TIPS…
LINÐO FOLKLORE SHOW: For 40 years, the Folklore Ensemble Lindo has been performing original national dances and music. Shows take place on Mondays and Fridays from 9.30pm all summer. Lazareti cultural centre, by the east entrance of the old city, tel: +385 (0)20 323535, www.lindjo.hr
OYSTERS: The village of Ston, an hour from Dubrovnik, is one of Europe’s foremost oyster regions. Restorani Bota Šare serves them raw, fried or grilled, and always first class. Marina Držica, Ston, www.bota-sare.hr
KONAVLE: Known as the Croatian Tuscany, this area about 20km to the south-east of Dubrovnik is especially beautiful. Home to cypress trees, charming old villages, lush vegetation and a rich folklore tradition. www.dubrovnik-online.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 20km from Dubrovnik. Atlas Buses depart for Dubrovnik on arrival of every scheduled flight, fare 35HRK (€5), journey approx 30 mins. Taxi approx 70HRK (€9.60). www.airport-dubrovnik.hr
ENGLAND East Midlands
THE INSIDER… Carl Smith, ground manager of the Haywood Oaks Activity Centre, which offers buggy racing, clay-pigeon shooting and sphering. Nottingham & District Gun Club, Far Baulker Farm, Old Rufford Road, Oxton, Nottinghamshire, tel: +44 (0)1623 883798
HIS TIPS…
NATIONAL SPACE CENTRE (ABOVE): Voted Large Visitor Attraction of the Year 2009, it’s truly out of this world. Exploration Drive, Leicester, www.spacecentre.co.uk
GALLERIES OF JUSTICE: See England’s grim history of crime and punishment brought to life in the old courthouse. The Lace Market, High Pavement, Nottingham, www.galleriesofjustice.org.uk
HEIGHTS OF ABRAHAM: Britain’s first-ever cable car, rising up to nearly 305m, the Heights give stunning views of the Peak District. Matlock Bath, Derbyshire, www.heightsofabraham.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 21km from Derby; 22km from Nottingham; 37km from Leicester. Skylink buses depart 24 hours a day; Derby, £3 (€3.35): Leicester, £6 (€6.70); Nottingham, £5 (€5.60). Taxi to Derby approx £27 (€30); Leicester, £38 (€42); Nottingham, £29 (€32). www.eastmidlandsairport.com
SCOTLAND Edinburgh
THE INSIDER… Nae Limits commercial manager, Kirstin Reeve, helps to organise day and weekend activity breaks in tubing, rafting and canyoning. Ballinluig, near Pitlochry, Perthshire, tel: +44 (0)1796 482600
HER TIPS…
CALTON HILL: Head to the east end of Princes Street and take a stroll up this majestic hill. What a view! www.edinburghguide.com
RESERVOIR WALK: Take a Lothian No 44 bus out to Balerno, get off at the last stop and walk up Harlaw Road until you get to the reservoirs. Enjoy walking back down into Leith for a full day’s walk with great views. www.edinburgh.gov.uk/phrp/harlaw/harlaw.html
PUB GOLF: A real local’s drinking game! Have a drink in each of the 18 pubs along the Royal Mile. Please drink safely!
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 13km west of the city. Buses to Edinburgh depart every 10 mins from early morning until past midnight. Journey approx 25 mins; fare £3. Taxi approx £15. www.edinburghairport.com
PORTUGAL Faro
THE INSIDER… Sebastian Wolff is a self-confessed kite surf, mountain bike and rock-climbing obsessive. He runs the Algarve’s only multi-activity company, Extreme Algarve. www.extremealgarve.com
HIS TIPS…
RIA FORMOSA LAGOON: Beautiful Ria Formosa lagoon, 20 minutes east of Faro, has 170km2 of beaches, islands, birds and other wildlife, and is perfect for bird spotting and boating activities. www.visitportugal.com
CASA OFFSHORE: A comfy guesthouse in the heart of Lagos. Enjoy the BBQ and massage nights, the hot tub, and the fantastic surfing and kite-surfing school.
Estrada Porto de Mos, Lagos, tel: +351 912 849723
OS LAMBERTOS: Famous for its seafood rice on Sundays, this restaurant has got the most succulent lamb chops and amazing fish ever. Rua do Compromisso Marítimo, Lagos, tel: +351 282 085953, www.lambertos.com.sapo.pt
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 8km from Faro city centre. Buses depart regularly, journey approx 20 mins; fare €1.65. Taxi fare approx €10. www.ana.pt
SWITZERLAND Geneva
THE INSIDERS… Cyrille Maron and Julien Delecraz run a white-water rafting company, Maron & Delecraz. 8 Quai des Vernets, Les Accacias, Geneva, www.rafting.ch
THEIR TIPS…
LA JONCTION: Visit the point where the Arve flows into the Rhône. The rivers are very different colours: the clear Rhône a bright blue, the Arve a dusky brown.
Viaduc de la Jonction
PARAGLIDING: Have a lesson overlooking Geneva, with incredible views of the city and surrounds.Centre ParAdventure, Rue de la Gare, Les Diablerets, www.swissaventure.ch
PLAINPALAIS FLEA MARKET: On Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays this market gathers by the Rhône. It’s great for seeing the bickering locals bargaining hard. www.geneva.info/shopping
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 4km north of the city. The No 10 bus departs every 10 minutes; the No 28 every 20, direct to the city centre. Journey 15 mins. Trains to the city centre depart every 5-10 mins. Journey approx 10 mins. A ticket from the machine in the baggage collection area allows free travel on public transport for the next 80 minutes. Taxi approx CHF30-35. www.gva.ch
SCOTLAND Glasgow
THE INSIDER… Neil Wightwick is general manager of top Scottish adventure hub the Glasgow Climbing Centre. 534 Paisley Road West, Glasgow, tel: +44 (0)141 427 9550, www.glasgowclimbingcentre.com
HIS TIPS…
SNOZONE SCOTLAND: The 200m-long main slope is covered with over 1,700 tonnes of fresh snow. There’s also a dedicated lesson slope for beginners. Xscape Braehead, Kings Inch Road, Braehead, tel: +44 (0)871 222 5672, www.snozone.co.uk
SKYPARK: Also in Braehead’s extreme sports venue Xscape (see above), the Skypark is a 16m high, free-hanging assault course. Not for the faint hearted! Tel: +44 (0)871 918 5459, www.climbzone.co.uk
KELVINGROVE ART GALLERY AND MUSEUM: There really is something to engage everyone here – from kids to seasoned art enthusiasts. It’s also free entry. Argyle Street, tel: +44 (0)141 276 9599, www.glasgowmuseums.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 13km west of the city centre. Buses to Glasgow depart regularly from early morning until after midnight. Journey approx 25 mins; fare £4.20. Taxi approx £20. www.glasgowairport.com
ENGLAND Jersey
THE INSIDER… John Fox is the founder of Jersey Adventures, offering sports from adventure racing to sand yachting. 11 Le Jardin de La Fontaine, La Grande Route de St Martin, St Martin, www.jerseyadventures.com
HIS TIPS…
LA PINNACLE: A neolithic place of worship and an old Roman lighthouse, this huge rock is a great place to sit and take stock. Just north of St Ouen’s Bay, Jersey’s west coast surf beach. www.jersey.com
LES ECREHOUS: Take a kayak tour of this group of islets and rocks halfway to France with Jersey Kayak Adventures. Ackaless, La Grande Route de La Cote, St Clement, www.jerseykayakadventures.co.uk
DRIFTWOOD CAFÉ: A sunrise breakfast at this little eaterie on the north-east coast sets you up for the day. Archirondel, St Martin, tel: +44 (0)1534 852157.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 6km west of St Helier. Bus No 15 to St Helier departs every 20-30 mins, from 7am to 10pm. Journey approx 15 mins; fare £1.50. Taxi fare approx £12. www.jerseyairport.com
REPUBLIC OF IRELAND Knock
THE INSIDER… Elisha Hickey runs her family’s business, Perfect Day Surf School, 60km from the airport. Shore Road, Strandhill, Sligo, tel +353 (0)87 202 9399, www.perfectdaysurfing.com
HER TIPS…
LSD KITE SURFING: Kite surfing is a relatively new water sport to Ireland and LSD are one of Ireland’s leading schools, located at Rosses Point beach in Sligo. Tel: +353 (0)86 805 1390, www.lsdkiteboarding.com
EAGLES FLYING: These spectacular bird shows aim to raise awareness about the conservation of Irish birds of prey. It’s a great place for families and couples alike. Ballymote, County Sligo, tel: +353 (0)71 918 9310, www.eaglesflying.com
BELLA VISTA: This lovely bar/restaurant overlooks the surfing beach and it’s a great spot for summer evenings. Run by an Australian called Mark Ballentine and his Irish wife, Connie, they really make you feel welcome. Shore Road, Strandhill, County Sligo, tel: +353 (0)71 912 2222, www.bellavista.ie
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 6km from Charlestown in County Mayo. Buses to Charlestown depart eight times a day; fare €5.50. Taxi fare approx €25 to Knock. www.knockairport.com
PORTUGAL Lisbon
THE INSIDER… South African Brian Trigg runs a surf school on the rugged Lisbon coastline at Praia Grande, the Portuguese capital of water sports. www.hookedsurf.com
HIS TIPS…
RESTÔ DO CHAPITÔ: A former women’s prison which functions today as a state-funded school for circus entertainers and funky restaurant/bar. 7 Rua Costa do Castelo, www.chapito.org
BAR MOINHO DOM QUIXOTE: This restored old windmill offers simple but delicious food. 7 Rua Campo da Bola, Vivenda Moinho, Azóia, Colares, Sintra, tel: +351 21 929 2523.
URSA BEACH (ABOVE): Many consider this little beach the most beautiful in Portugal. It requires a 30-minute descent from the cliffs but is worth the walk. Just off the village of Azóia, before Cabo da Roca. www.visitportugal.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 6km from Lisbon city centre. Aerobus No 91 to central Lisbon departs every 20 mins from 7.45am to 8.15pm; fare €3.35, valid all day. Taxi approx €15. www.ana.pt
FRANCE Lourdes
THE INSIDER… Clémence Tremosa is a river guide with Sport Nature, white-water rafting and kayaking experts in the Gave de Pau, 40km from Lourdes. Impasse la Pradette, Saint Pé de Bigorre, tel: +33 (0)5 6241 8148, www.sport-nature.org
HER TIPS…
AUBERGE DE L’ARRIOUTOU: Locals like this place for its good authentic Pyrénean food at reasonable prices (€15-30). Route de Hautacam, Argeles Gazost, tel: +33 (0)5 6297 1132
PIC DU JER FUNICULAR: This mountain tram, built back in 1900, takes visitors 500m up the mountain of Pic Du Jer. Boulevard d’Espagne, www.picdujer.fr
GROTTES DE BETHARRAM: Opened in 1903, these are the most famous of the many local cave systems. A tour includes train and boat rides. Saint Pé de Bigorre, www.grottes-de-betharram.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 12km from Lourdes. Taxi approx €28. There is a bus service from the airport to central Lourdes, journey approx 30 minutes, fare €2. www.tlp.aeroport.fr
MENORCA Mahon
THE INSIDER… Chano Carci is an experienced diver and co-owner of Triton Diving Center, about a 20-minute drive from Mahon by the spectacular beach of Binibeca, where you can learn to dive. Cala Torret, Menorca, tel: +34 971 188528, www.tritondivingcenter.com
HIS TIPS…
BISTRO NA ROSA: For gourmet local cheese, pâtés and wines at economic prices. 28 Plaça SA Font, Cala Torret, tel: +34 971 150803.
CALA RAFALET: This white-sand creek with its little tiny beach on the east coast of the island is accessible only through a 20-minute walk along a horse path in the middle of an astonishingly beautiful forest. 200m from S’Algar, Sant Lluís
LLUCMASSANES: A small hamlet with quaint Menorca-style houses. The road is surrounded on both sides by the typical Menorcan hand-built stonewalls: enjoy the journey as well as the destination, which is just a one-hour scenic drive inland from Mahon. www.illesbalears.es
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 4.5km from the city. Buses depart every 30 mins, 5.55am to 10pm. Journey approx 15 mins; fare €1.60. Taxi approx €10. www.menorca-airport.com
SPAIN Málaga
THE INSIDER… When he’s not sea kayaking or mountain biking, Manuel Lopez organises activity holidays for Educare Aventura. 16 Plaza de la Merced, Málaga, www.educare-aventura.com
HIS TIPS…
MIRADOR DE CERRO GORDO: Set in the beautiful Cerro Gordo Natural Park, this restaurant is the perfect place to contemplate the sunset. Carretera Vieja de Málaga, near La Herradura, tel: +34 958 349099, www.miradorcerrogordo.com
BURRIANA BEACH: From Nerja’s wonderful urban beach, about 50 minutes from Málaga, you can kayak along the stunning Maro-Cerro Gordo cliffs. www.adventuranerja.com
THE GARDEN RESTAURANT: Eat codfish tarts or stir-fried aubergine with cane honey in this cosy restaurant. Calle del Santa Cristo, Frigiliana, www.garden-restaurant-frigiliana.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 8km from Málaga. Buses to the city depart every 30 mins, 7am to midnight. Journey approx 45 mins; fare €1. Buses to Marbella vary. Journey approx 45 mins; fare €3.65. Trains to Málaga depart from 7am to 11.45pm; fare €1. Taxi approx €15 to Málaga; €50 to Marbella. www.aena.es
REPUBLIC OF MALTA Malta
THE INSIDER… Lina Fabri is general manager of Subway Dive Centre on St Paul’s Bay peninsula. Vista Complex, Pioneer Road, Bugibba, Malta, www.subwayscuba.com
HER TIPS…
THE HYPOGEUM AT HAL SAFLIENI: These prehistoric temples are amazing, but book ahead as only 80 people are allowed to view them each day. Burial Street, Paola, tel: +351 (0)21 805018
FORTANELLA TEA GARDENS: Perched on the bastions of the old capital, this restaurant is famed for its views and its delicious chocolate cake. 1 Bastion Street, Mdina, tel: +351 (0)21 454264, www.maltainsideout.com
CARAVAGGIO: The master fled to Malta in 1607 to escape trial for murder. His masterpiece, The Beheading of St John the Baptist, is still on display at St Johns Co-Cathedral (above). Republic Street, Valletta, www.stjohnscocathedral.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 6km from Valletta. Buses depart to the city centre every 30 minutes from 6am to 11.30pm, journey approx 30 mins; fare €0.47. Taxi €15.75. www.maltairport.com
ENGLAND Manchester
THE INSIDER… Calum Strickland rode his first bike when he was six and now he’s a pro-BMX racer for Fastlane. www.fastlanebmxmag.com
HIS TIPS…
GRAND CENTRAL PUB: A chilled-out bar with a good atmosphere and a rock/metal jukebox. 80 Oxford Road, tel: +44 (0)161 236 0890.
MANCHESTER ACADEMY: Loads of top bands perform here every week. I’ve recently been to the Academy to see Lamb of God and Slayer, and I’m seeing The Black Keys there on the 6th of July as well. Oxford Road, tel: +44 (0)161 275 2930. www.manchesteracademy.net
PLATT FIELDS PARK: You can fly your kite on one of the hills or have hours of fun in its skateboarding and BMX park, play tennis or take a rowing boat or pedalo out on the lake – or just enjoy the greenery. Mabfield Road, off Wilmslow Road, tel: + 44 (0)161 224 2902. www.plattfields.org
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 16km from Manchester. Five to six trains an hour go to the city. Journey approx 15-20 mins; fare £3.60 (€4). The No 43 bus departs every 10-30 mins from 5am to 11pm. Journey approx 50 mins; fare £2.50 (€2.80). Taxi approx £20 (€22.65). www.manchesterairport.co.uk
GERMANY Munich
THE INSIDER… Since 2000, Ralf Lorenz has been working as an instructor at Surfers Spirit kite-surfing school. 3 Kolpingring, Oberhaching, Munich South, tel: +49 (0)89 6139 8160, www.surfersspirit.de
HIS TIPS…
THE EISBACH (ABOVE): This is a man-made river that runs through the English Garden and has a standing wave, which makes this place the hottest surf spot in Munich. However, it’s not for beginners as, due to rocks just below the surface, you need to be very sure of your skills. Feel free to watch, though! www.surfxchange.net/spots/munich.html
BAR CENTRALE: Come for the cool atmosphere and after-business or after-surfing drinks. 23 Ledererstrasse, tel: +49 (0)89 223762, www.bar-centrale.com
RIVA BAR PIZZERIA: The best wood-oven-made pizzas in town at moderate prices. 44 Tal, tel: +49 89 220240, www.rivabar.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: Munich Franz Josef Strauss Airport is 28.5km north-east of Munich. S-Bahn trains (S1 or S8) go every 10 minutes from the airport to Hauptbahnhof (Munich’s main station), fare €8.80 one way. Taxis cost up to €60 to the city centre. www.munich-airport.de
SPAIN Murcia
THE INSIDER… Pedro Almela is the director and an instructor at Sky Dive Murcia. Tel: +34 607 496807, www.skydivemurcia.com
HIS TIPS…
CESIPAL: A wind tunnel that simulates the experience of skydiving from the parachute opening to the landing. Book at least 24 hours in advance. CESIPAL, Alcantarilla Air Base, Alcantarilla, 14km from Murcia, tel: +34 968 896306, www.cesipal.es
CASA VICENTE: A cheap restaurant with a €9 lunch menu in Puente Tocinos, about 6.5km east of Murcia. Octopus and other local dishes are their speciality. 8 Carril Navarros, tel: +34 968 304655
SALZILLO MUSEUM: A stunning collection of baroque artist Francisco Salzillo’s religious sculptures. 3 Plaza de San Agustin, www.museosalzillo.es
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 48km south-east of Murcia. Bus No 73 to central Murcia departs at 5.45pm, 7.15pm and 10.45pm. Journey approx 45 mins; fare €7.Taxi fare approx €42. www.aena.es
ENGLAND Newquay
THE INSIDER… Ben Ford is a beach lifeguard, coasteering expert and surfing instructor for EBO Adventure. Building 75, Penhale Training Camp, Holywell Bay Newquay, www.newquayadventurecentre.com
HIS TIPS…
THE LEWENICH LODGE: With stunning views from the top of the Pentire Headland, this eatery and pub is the place to enjoy a glass of wine and watch the sunset. Tel: +44 (0)1637 878117, www.lewinnick-lodge.info
CRANTOCK BEACH: This sheltered beach isn’t very well known, so it remains quiet. Take the A3075, then follow signs to Crantock village, www.cornwall-beaches.co.uk/Crantock-beach.htm
FLOWRIDER: No matter what the conditions, you can always surf at this new free-standing wave. The Loop, Retallack Resort, St Columb, www.retallackresort.co.uk
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 8km north of Newquay. Bio Travel (tel: +44 [0]1637 880 006) provides a taxi and minibus service running on biodiesel. Minibus approx £4 (€4.50); taxi approx £14 (€15.87), pre-booking advised. www.newquay-airport.co.uk
FRANCE Nice
THE INSIDER… Pascal Clementi is a professional climber and the manager of Odyssée Verticale, who specialise in outdoor activities on the French Riviera. www.odysseeverticale.com
HIS TIPS…
THÉOULE SUR MER: One of the most beautiful places to be in the sea is Théoule sur Mer, 40 minutes south along the coast from Nice, facing the bay of Cannes. www.theoule-sur-mer.org
RENÉ SOCCA: Have a piece of socca (a crêpe made with chickpea flour and olive oil) with a glass of rosé in the heart of the old city. Delicious. 2 rue Miralheti, tel: +33 (0)4 9392 0573
PARC NATIONAL DU MERCANTOUR: Stunning countryside, with a unique variety of wildlife and flora, plus 600km of walking trails just an hour’s scenic drive north of Nice. Tel: +33 (0)4 9316 7888, www.mercantour.eu
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 6km from Nice. A bus to Nice takes 15 mins; fare approx €4. Buses to Cannes (€12.40) and Monaco (€14) take 50 mins. Trains to Nice from Gare Nice St Augustin (500m from Terminal 1), journey approx 15 mins; fare €4. Taxi approx €25; €70 to Cannes; €75 to Monaco. www.nice.aeroport.fr
SPAIN Palma de Mallorca
THE INSIDER… Toni Croix, an amateur speleologist who loves exploring Serra de Tramuntana’s caves and canyons. www.ojeilles.com/voltorsoje
HIS TIPS…
CAFÉ ANTIQUARI: A former antiques shop that’s now a café with interesting exhibitions, music, poetry nights and other cultural events. 5 Calle Arabí, tel: +34 971 719687
PLAER NATURAL: Organic vegetarian food in a great setting, with fruit-shaped lampshades, a spicy smell and healthy eating at economic prices. Plaza de la Quartera, tel: +34 971 227780
OLIVAR MARKET: Full of tastes, colours, smells and textures – get swept away by your senses. This market supplies most of the city’s restaurants with its produce. It’s open 7am to 2pm every day but Sunday. Plaza Olivar, near Plaça d’Espanya
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 11km south-east of Palma. Buses to the city centre depart every 15 mins, from 6.10am to 2.15am. Journey approx 15 mins; fare €1.85. Taxi approx €17. www.aena.es
FRANCE Paris
THE INSIDER… Yann Hnautra, one of the fathers of l’art du déplacement, also known as parkour or free running. His company, Majestic Force, produced the documentary Generation Yamakasi and created a training school. www.majesticforce.com
HIS TIPS…
PARC DE LA VILLETTE: So beautiful, artistic, cultural, modern and curious that you can spend all day here. Metro station: Porte de Pantin, www.add-academy.com
BISTROT VIVIENNE: A typical Parisian restaurant with a lovely terrace. 4 Rue des Petits-Champs, tel: +33 (0)1 4927 0050
13TH ARRONDISSEMENT: The so-called Chinese area has loads of spots for training parkour and good, cheap restaurants everywhere. Metro station: Olympiades.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 23km from Paris. Buses to Paris depart every 15 mins, from 6am to 10.30pm. Journey approx 45 mins; fare €8.40. Trains to Paris depart every 15 mins, from 5.24am to 11.58pm. Journey approx 35 mins; fare €8. Taxi €45. www.adp.fr
FRANCE Perpignan
THE INSIDER… Mike Rhodes, a passionate mountaineer and rock climber, runs a B&B business in Les Angles and offers guided walks, 90kms west of Perpignan. 10 rue des Astres, Les Angles, www.pyrenean-trails.com
HIS TIPS…
LE PETIT TRAIN JAUNE: Villefranche is the starting point for the famous Petit Train Jaune, built between 1910 and 1928. With a maximum of six carriages, including two open-air ones in summer, this rack and pinion railway passes spectacular scenery. www.villefranchedeconflent.com
VIA FERRATA: Novices can try a bit of mountaineering on the private Via Ferrata, with safety equipment and thorough instruction so you can climb its 260m high cliff. Les Escaldilles-Llo, www.via-ferrata-de-llo.com
LES BAINS DE LLO: Relax in the natural thermal baths of Llo, with indoor and outdoor pools of natural sulphurous water at 34-36°C. A perfect way to spend an afternoon. www.lesbainsde.llo.free.fr
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is just 5km from Perpignan. A shuttle bus runs to the city railway station. Journey approx 15 mins; fare €5. Taxi approx €15. www.aeroport.fr/les-aeroports-del-uaf/perpignan-rivesaltes.php
CZECH REPUBLIC Prague
THE INSIDER… Karel Malimánek has been a bungee-jumping instructor since 1993 at KI Bungee Jump. Tel: +420 777 250126, www.bungee.cz
HIS TIPS…
JÍLOVÉ U PRAHY: Just 30km south of Prague and surrounded by massive hills, Jílové u Prahy (literally, Clay Town) has some of the most beautiful and peaceful scenery in the area.
LITERARY CAFÉ BLATOUCH: Play chess, scrabble or cards, have a delicious coffee or tea or read one of the books available at this charming café. Bukowski, Gauguin, Edgar Allan Poe and Woody Allen are waiting on the shelves. 17 Americká, Prague, tel: +420 222 328643, www.blatouch.cz
ZVÍKOV CASTLE (ABOVE): About 100km from Prague, the small village of Zvíkovské Podhradí, in the South Bohemian region, holds one of the country’s most important early gothic castles. www.hrad-zvikov.eu
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 19km from Prague. Get the No 119 bus to Dejvicka metro station or the No 100 to Zlicín, and continue underground. Journey approx 45-60 mins; fare 20CZK (€0.78). Taxi approx 600CZK (€23.40). www.csl.cz
FRANCE Toulouse
THE INSIDER… Léo Labadens rode his first cable ski in 1996 at Teleski Nautique de Sesquières, less than 15 minutes from Toulouse, and has taken part in world championships since 2008. www.teleskitoulouse.com
HIS TIPS…
PLACE ST PIERRE: All Toulouse’s best bars are located in this lively square, just five minutes’ walk from the town centre, on the banks of the Garonne river.
PIZZETA DI ROMA: This is my favorite pizzeria in town. Do you want to know its secret? They import all the ingredients (from the flour to the olive oil, the mozzarella and the speck ham) straight from Italy. Yes, it’s as simple as that – but yummy! 22 rue Peyras, tel: +33 (0)5 6123 5865, www.pizzettadiroma.com
LAC DE SESQUIÈRES: Stroll about, find your shadow and then go for a picnic at this wonderful lake, just a 15 minute drive north from the heart of the city. www.lieuxoutsita.free.fr
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 6.7km from Toulouse. Buses to the city leave every 20 mins, from 7.35am to 12.45am. Journey approx 20 mins. Fare €4 single.Taxi €22 (day), €25 (night). www.toulouse.aeroport.fr/US pl
ITALY Venice
THE INSIDER… Dario Sverzut has done more than 5,000 dives in 15 years working at Blue Sport diving centre, half an hour’s drive from Venice. 35 Via F Baracca, Marina del Cavallino, Jesolo, Venice, www.bluesport.net
HIS TIPS…
SCUOLA DI S GIORGIO DEGLI SCHIAVONI: This museum is testimony of the Dalmatian community in Venice and has paintings of saints by Vittore Carpaccio. 3259a Calle dei Furlani, Castello, tel: + 39 041 522 8828 (closed Mondays).
THE CA D’ORO MUSEUM: A 15th-century palace housing paintings from the Venetian school, masterpieces from the Tuscan and Flemish school, and renaissance bronze sculptures. 3932 Cannaregio, www.cadoro.org
DA IVO: Near St Mark’s Square and adjacent to the canal, this elegant restaurant serves superb Italian cuisine. Calle dei Fuseri, tel: +39 041 528 5004
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 6km from Venice. The Alilaguna water bus to Venice leaves hourly from 6.10am until past midnight, jounrey just over an hour, fare €13. The ATVO Fly Bus departs regularly from 8.20am until past midnight, journey 20 minutes, fare €3. www.veniceairport.it
