water sports

My favourite campsite: Nautic Almata, Costa Brava

Destinations Family holiday Guide to Camping TravelLeave a comment

Canvas Holidays’ sales consultant Nicki Ferguson has enjoyed seeing most of the world throughout her career in travel. For pleasure, however, it’s Nautic Almata in Rosas, Spain, she loves returning to. Here, she shares why this beach-based campsite holds such an enduring appeal for all her family.

  1. What is it about Nautic Almata that appeals to you?

The campsite is laid back and very relaxed with direct access to a fabulous long sandy beach that runs for miles around the Bay of Roses. The location of the site is fantastic for exploring the Catalan region – from Figueres and down to Barcelona.

There are lots of water sports available and a full animation and entertainment programme. We normally prefer smaller campsites but Nautic Almata has such a relaxed atmosphere, plus many of the people who stay there are repeat customers. We’ve visited the site four times. 

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Eating & drinking in Brittany

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If you’re planning a camping holiday in Brittany, you’re probably looking forward to lazy days on the beach and exploring quaint seaside towns.

But while you’re away, don’t forget your taste buds! Brittany is famous for tempting food and drink. With the freshest sea food in France, crepes and galettes galore, washed down with delicious local cider, what’s not to like! 

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Auray, Morbihan

Rainy day activities in Brittany

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As with a holiday anywhere, you can’t always guarantee blue skies and sunshine so it’s always handy to be prepared with some rainy day activities.  We’ve put together some of our favourite things to do when the weather doesn’t play ball. If you’ve got any suggestions, we’d love to hear them too!

Girl with umbrella

Oceanopolis in Brest

To call Oceanopolis an aquarium wouldn’t be doing it justice. The place is huge and covers every corner of the planet! Explore the depths of the ocean from sharks to Europe’s largest penguin colony. If you need to warm up then take a step into the Caribbean with a walk through the Tropical Greenhouse. http://www.oceanopolis.co.uk/

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What is a camping holiday actually like?

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Nicola McKay, one of our lovely contracting team members, sheds some light on what a camping holiday is really like.

A straw poll of friends and family (excluding my camping industry pals obviously) showed that some of them didn’t actually realise what a modern camping holiday is like. So in an effort to clarify I thought I’d jot down a few thoughts about it.

1)     First of all we’re talking about camping holidays in Europe so the vast majority of the time, the weather is going to be a lot better (if you’re reading this from the UK!). Less of the wringing out of smalls and making a mad dash from tent to toilet block and more of the al fresco dining and glass of wine watching the sun go down.

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Spotlight on Brittany

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Brittany is one of the most distinctive and beautiful regions in France with a unique character, intriguing history and 1,200km of dramatic coastline. Each year, over a million holidaymakers hop across the Channel to enjoy the stunning scenery, Breton lifestyle and charming hospitality.

St Malo

The landscape in Brittany is diverse, with a rugged northern coastline, sophisticated beach resorts in the south and beautiful offshore islands to explore. Bordered by the English Channel and the Atlantic Ocean, Brittany is gently warmed by the Gulf Stream, giving it a very mild climate – perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy the elements and invigorating sea air on miles of coastal paths – walk or cycle as you admire the surrounding scenery.

Brittany’s strong cultural heritage is key to its appeal – a mix of Celtic traditions and medieval history. And of course, no visit to Brittany would be complete without sampling the delicious cuisine on offer. Specialities include seafood and crêpes – both can be washed down with a glass (or two) of tasty Breton cider.

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Macaroons

The food lover’s guide to Paris…

Destinations Food & Drink France1 Comment

For a day trip to Paris with a difference, let your stomach be your guide…

We asked Paris-based pâtissier and food writer, Frances Leech, to share her favourite culinary adventures in the City of Lights. Her travel philosophy is for every tourist or cultural activity you do, there should always be a corresponding food stop! Now there’s an idea we can get behind! So put on your walking shoes and most stretchy trousers, and get set for a day of tasty treats…

Best bread and croissants
Breakfast is an important start to the day, so no one should start a day’s sightseeing on an empty stomach. For one of the best baguettes de tradition in the city, head to Gontran Cherrie in Montmartre (22 Rue Caulaincourt). They also offer flaky croissants and speciality breads like black squid ink, or fig and lemon. Walk down to the Montmartre cemetery afterwards to peek in the old tombs.

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