Europe and Middle East

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

Andy Mossack enjoys renting Chateau Asturias near Carcassonne and feeling like a Lord.

Chateau Asturias near Carcassonne. Renting a chateau has never felt so good.

Languedoc-Roussillon is a region in south west France which often hides under the shadow of its more glamorous neighbours further east on the Riviera. But to those in the know, it’s far more appealing; huge sandy beaches, stunning scenery and lower prices. And what could be better than to base yourself in the 12th century luxury Chateau Asturias near Carcassonne.

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Hote Lone Exterior 3

Maistra Hotel Lone, Rovinj

Maistra Hotel Lone is a perfect example of the new face of Croatia. A country which has so much to offer yet struggled to adapt from its socialist roots.

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Avani Indian Restaurant

Avani Indian Restaurant, Radlett Herts

The word is that nearly 80% of Indian restaurants in the UK are Bangladeshi. So when I hear about a new restaurant in Radlett specialising in Mumbai cuisine, naturally I want to know more about the Avani Indian Restaurant.

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Lac des Fétoules

Hiking Ecrins National Park

I’d always wondered what life is like in those high altitude French Refuges, often no more than wooden shacks, nestling in the shade of the mountains. Even better, when I hear about a Tour Gourmand, or gourmet tour, hiking between them, I’m even more interested. So I pack my rucksack and set out to try hiking Ecrins National Park, about a 90 minute drive East of Grenoble.

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Swinton Park spring

Swinton Park Castle Hotel. Discover a Proper Yorkshire Castle.

It had been a glorious autumnal day at Fountains Abbey, as we drove from Harrogate towards Masham and our treat of the trip: a stay in Swinton Park Castle Hotel, a proper Yorkshire castle.

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Anthea Gerrie reviews the Sofitel Hotel at Gatwick Airport.

Sofitel Hotel. The best way to catch an early flight at Gatwick Airport.

Anthea Gerrie reviews the Sofitel hotel Gatwick Airport’ one of the airport’s better on-site hotels. Convenience for early fliers but does it stack up?

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