Europe and Middle East

Exclusive guide to the best holiday destinations in Europe and Middle East. independent reviews from award-winning travel writers

Michael Edwards offer up his insider guide to Basel as the perfect long weekend?

Insider Guide to Basel. Discover Art and culture for a perfect weekend.

Is Basel, the art hub with culture unlimited, hot on the heels of Geneva in the race for weekend-break Travel Oscars? And is the city on the Rhine leading the charge of the land-of-milk-and-money up the global happiness leagues?

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hiking and biking in the Algarve Cabo Sao Vincente

Fantastic Hiking and Biking in the Algarve

You’re not going to find mountains in this part of Portugal, the most you’ll get are gentle hills, but these are sufficient to give you a cycling work out. In the far west of the Algarve, away from the golf courses and holiday villages, you’re going to be rewarded with unspoilt and wild nature.

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Terry Marsh reciews the Salutation Hotel in Ambleside, a spa hotel in one of the Lake District's historic towns.

The Salutation Hotel. Perfect for exploring Ambleside’s history.

Having occupied one corner of the centre of Ambleside for more than 360 years, it is not surprising that the Salutation Hotel has acquired both a history and a reputation.

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The Signal Box. Ever wondered what life would be like hidden away in a romantic and luxurious railway signal box in deepest North Norfolk? James Ruddy reveals all. Signal Box in sunny times

The Signal Box. Discover the quirkiest cottage rental you’ve ever seen!

Ever wondered what life would be like hidden away in a romantic and luxurious railway signal box in deepest North Norfolk? James Ruddy reveals all.

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Lucy Daltroff stays at the Runnymede Hotel and Spa in Egham Surrey. the runnymede on thames exterior

The Runnymede Hotel and Spa. Discover Glorious Magna Carta history on the doorstep.

Maybe it was the effects of a “White Night”   dry gin and pink Mediterranean tonic water but when I looked out of my bedroom window from the Runneymede Hotel I thought I saw a Jacuzzi by the Thames, full of happy looking people waving their hands in the air.

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Andy Mossack stays at the May Fair Hotel and samples a touch of Hollywood glamour in London's Mayfair.

The May Fair Hotel. Get a taste of Hollywood glamour in London

The May Fair Hotel opened in 1927 with Royal approval – since then it’s played host to many a celebrity, and is as known for its discretion as much as its flowing champers

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