Centre Travel

This charcoal-tinged, lunar-like landscape in La Geria, south-east. Lanzarote may be the most distinct in the whole wine world. Since 1775 vintners have been planting Malvasia and Muscatel grapes into the shallow craters pocking these mineral-rich volcanic soils. Small half-moon walls, or 'zocos', are then built to protect the budding vines from the island's forceful gales. It's like the Loire Valley, but transplanted to the Moon. Bodega la Geria Lanzarote, Canary Islands W:   lageria.com

Serious cyclists peddle past roe deer and wild goats on the 6.8km single track that slices through the giant pines of Kielder Forest straddling the English-Scottish border. Not for the faint hearted, the trail climbs to 1,900m at precarious Deadwater Fell before descending towards Kielder Castle, home to one of the UK's largest red squirrel sanctuaries. Bike up on a clear day., when the uncompromising views from the peak stretch towards both coastlines. Deadwater Mountain Bike Trail Kielder Forest, Northumberland, UK W:   visitkielder.com

According to folkore, this stone bridge over northern Germany's Lake Galenbeck is the handiwork of Satan himself,  left unfinished after a shepherd's wife tricked the devil out of a deal to claim her husband's soul. Though not open to pedestrians, the perfect circle formed by the arc and its reflection in the cold waters below have made it a photographer's dream. Those looking to be spooked can head there on the 31st of this month. Costumes optional. The Devil's Bridge Kromlauer Park, Kromlau, Germany W:   kromlau-online.de

Experience nature at its most beautiful. The Manntichen region is great for hiking and for excursions to suit every taste. The trails range from easy to demanding, including some very close to the glacier that are sure to quicken every adventurer's pulse. Enjoy a sensation of utter well-being on the Manntichen. Who would choose to stay at home? Mannlichen - Grindelwald Gondelbahn Grindelwald -Manntichen T:   +41  (0)33 854 80 80 E:   mail@maenntichen.ch W:  www.maentichen.ch

The only one of its kind in all Europe. Experience an intoxicating trip on the brand-new "First Flieger". Glide down the 800 m from First to Schreckfeld, together with 3 people, all the same time and independently secured on the rope. Speeds of 84 km/h are reached. Thrill and fun are guaranteed. Grindelwald - First Bern T:   +41 (0)33 828 72 33 W:   www.jungfraubahn.ch

The nostalgic cog railway will transport you up from Wilderswil to the Schynige Platte in 45 minutes, from where incomparable and breathtaking views of the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau abound.  Visit the botanical Alpine garden with over  500 different plant species, or use the LOWA hiking boot Test Center. Schynige Platte Bern T:   +41(0)33 828 72 33 W:   www.jungfraubahn.ch

Restaurant Le Carpe Diem 116 Rue Carnot Wimereux T:  00 33 (0)3 21 87 64 05

Auberge de la Cachaine 18, Rue du Stade Pont de Briques Tel:   00 33 (0)3 21 32 22 81 W;   www.hostelleriedelariviere.fr

Restaurant Le Roadster 337 Rue  de Hurtevent Maninghen-Henne T:   00 33 (0)3 21 32 85 25 W:   www.leroadster.com

Winery Tenuta Dell' Arbiola Regione Saline 67 Asti Tel;   0141/856194 E:   info@arbiola.it W:  www.arbiola.it

Winery Cascina Garona Strada San Michele, 91 Asti Nizza Monferrato Tel;   0141 726681 E:   cascina.garona@libero.it

Rossnaree has a suitably imposing setting in the heart of Bru' na Boinne, overlooking the Boyne and the five thousand yesar-old pssage tombs at Newgrange and Knowth. Rossnaree was built in the Italianate style during the Victorian era and has remained in the ownership of the Law family ever since. Its site is believed to be that of the house of Cletty, where the High Kings of Ireland, coming from nearby Tara, would partake in seasonal ceremonies. Aisling, the  present owner, is warm, welcoming and a consummate hostess, with an interest in art and drama which is reflected in the art courses held at Rossnaree. Rossnaree Slane, Co Meath Tel:   +353 41 982 0975 Fax:  +353 41 982 0975 E:   rossnaree@eirconm.net W:  www.rossnaree.ie

Perched on the edge of Clifden Harbour, the Quay House is just minutes from the centre of this vibrant, engaging town.  Dating from 1820, it is Clifden's oldest house, originally built for the harbour master. It later became a Franciscan monastery and, subsequently, a convent. The present owners are Paddy and Julia  Foyle, whose family have been involved in tourism in the region for almost a century.  They are constantly on hand to share their suggestions of what to see and do. They also preside over the finest of breakfasts - the perfect start to a day exploring Connemara. The Quay House Clifden, Co Galway Tel:   +353 95 21369 Fax:  +353 95 21608 E:   thequay@iol.ie W:  www.thequayhouse.com

In the heart of Georgian is Number 31, imaginatively converted from two mews buildings by leading 1970's Irish architect, Sam Stephenson, as his family home. \today's owners Noel and Diedre Comer, are splendid hosts and you will feel instantly at home in this hidden jewel of Georgian Dublin. Breakfast is a highlight of your stay-often served in the panoramic rooftop conservatory, it invariably involves generous helping of delicious., homemade dishes.It's only minutes from the bustle of Grafton Street and St. Stephen's green or more tranquil treasures of The National Museum., Library and Gallery, Trinity College and Dublin's many fine restaurants. Number 31 Leeson Close, Dublin Tel:   +353 1 676 5011 Fax:  +353 1 676 2929 E:   number31@iol.ie W:  www.number31.ie

Carlisle-Days Inn 1-81 Exit 45 101 Alexander Spring Rd., Carlisle PA 17015 Tel:   (800) 691 1027 Web;   www.daysinn.com

Washington D.C. Days Inn Arlington VA 2201 Arl  Blvd (Rte 50 at Ft Myer) Arlington, VA 22201 Tel:   (703) 525 0300 Web:   www.daysinn.com

Ottawa - Days Inn Downtown 319 Rideau St., Ottawa ON K1N 5Y4 Tel:   (613) 789 5555 Web:   www.daysinn.com

Ca' Delizia Cannaregio, 1310/E Venice

Apartment Grecale San Marco,603 Venice Tel:   041 5268355 Fax:  041 5268362 E:   serenin@libero.it

Apartment Francesco Guardi Cannaregio 5259/A Venice Tel :    042 472857 Fax:    042 472521 E:   marc0tiscali.it W:  www.casatanzi.it

Spacious, light and airy three bedroom modernised bungalow. Well equipped. Pretty secluded garden. Ideal location - forest on the doorstep. Touring centre for forest and the coast. Non-smoking. Bramble Cottage 6 Alpine Road, Ashurst SO40 7AN T:   023 8029 E:   info@bramble-cottage.net W:  www.bramble-cottage.net

Spacious, quality accommodation with a personal touch. patio doors to guests' south facing garden. King size bed. Separate living/dining/kitchen. Off road parking. 'Open forest' 200m. Short breaks off season. Purlins 159 Woodlands Road, Woodlands SO40 7GL T:   023 8029 3833 E:   kay@purlins.net W:  www.purklins.net

Albergo Grifone 1891 ** Via Milano, 48 Peschiera Del Garda Tel:   045 6402577 Fax:  045 6402577 E:   info@albergogrifone1891peschiera.com W:  www.albergogrifone1891.com

Hotel Internazionale  ** Localita' Coalini Malcesine Tel:   045 7400588 Fax:  045 7400338