Stars, strolls, icebergs, islands – here are four ideas for a May adventure
Hot-foot to walking fest
Why go? The biggest celebration of strolling in Europe is back for its 15th year. The Isle of Wight Walking Festival takes over the island 4-19 May; there are over 250 walks, covering 800km of pathway, to choose from. Challenge yourself on one of the around-the-island hikes, take it slow on a t’ai-chi walk, find love on a speed dating stroll, or hunt for fossils and spooks on a ghost walk.
Where to stay: Nettlecombe farm has cottages from £360/wk. For a full list of accommodation see visitisleofwight.co.uk.
Getting there: Take the ferry from Southampton; discounts for festival-goers. Visit www.redfunnel.co.uk for details.
Board new Med flight
Why go? Sardinia’s north-east Costa Smeralda is known for its clear waters and chic atmosphere, but there’s more to this corner of the Italian isle. Take advantage of easyJet’s new Luton-Olbia flight to explore the town’s Tuesday/Saturday street market, Basilica Minore San Simplicio and archaeological museum before visiting the island’s interior to walk, cycle, climb and ride. For a taste of la dolce vita, try a cooking class. For more, see www.sardegnaturismo.it/en.
Where to stay: Porto Romano is a small B&B in Olbia; rooms from €25 (£21) pppn.
Getting there: easyJet’s flight from Luton to Olbia starts 15 May; one-way fares start from £30.99.
Watch an iceberg parade
Why go? May/June is the best time to get up close and personal with icebergs along Canada’s Newfoundland/Labrador coastline – known as Iceberg Alley. Although you can spot ’bergs from Signal Hill in province capital St John’s, the villages of Twillingate (the ‘iceberg capital of the world’) and St Anthony are the two best spots; both offer opportunities for boat and kayak trips. Use icebergfinder.com to keep track of where the ’bergs are.
Where to stay: Harbour Lights Inn is a characterful B&B with ocean views; rooms from C$85 (£55).
Getting there: Air Canada flies London-St John’s from £670rtn. Drive or take an internal flight up the coast to St Anthony.
Gaze at great dark skies
Why go? The Brecon Beacons National Park has just been designated an International Dark Sky Reserve (only the fifth destination in the world to achieve this status). It means that this idyllic chunk of Welsh countryside is officially ideal for viewing the universe. Various stargazing events are held throughout the year (see www.breconbeacons.org), but you can gaze independently at any time.
Where to stay: Trericket Mill Vegetarian Guesthouse, on the northern edge of the park, is a converted Georgian watermill. Rooms (from £68pn), eco-cabins and camping are all available, meat less so.
Getting there: By car, take the A40. Abergavenny is the most convenient train station.
