ukfiona

Ideas please! We are Brits in our 30s (no kids)trying to think of ideas for a one week break in Europe in early April. We aren't really 'city' people, but love places where we can can combine some hiking in beautiful scenery (love mountains/lakes but probably too cold in April), with day trips to places of historic interest like castles, old towns etc etc. Had thought of Switzerland, but I think there will still be too much snow around for hiking, plus I have read that many of the resorts are really dead during this 'in-between' season. Have been to Italy several times recently, so probably should have a change. Anyone have any inspiration? Budget not a major obstacle. Any brainwaves appreciated....

Maira

Germany, more specifically the Bavarian Alps; Fussen, Garmish, Obberammergau. Garmish has a number of hiking trails that are very well maintained.

Portugal, this is one place that I can't wait to return. Northern Portugal, specifically had unspoiled beaches, beautiful nature sites, which makes it perfect place for mountain trekking, canoeing, hiking. Great historical sightseeing of wonderful small towms for a change of pace. On my list the towns of Carvalhelhos, Chaves, and Pedras Salgadas.

Spain, always a favorite of mine. The area around Donana Nature Park (UNESCO Patrimony to Humanity) (Andalucia, near Grazalema) will be at its prime in March-April. Another perfect combination of ecotourism with amazing historical sightseeing opportunities.

I have never been to Southern France, but I am reading about the region and some small villages and it does sound glorious.

Please keep us posted! Have fun whatever you choose to do!!

Xenos

How about mainland Greece? The Zagori, Peloponnese or Epirus areas would probably all fit in with what you're looking for.

ukfiona

Maira - You obviously have great powers of insight, because your first idea (Bavarian Alps), we did a couple of years ago, and had a superb time! I have been looking at Heidelberg/Romantic Road area actually. I will do some research on the other suggestions - thanks both of you. Keep 'em coming! I'm one of those people that gets as much fun from planning the whole thing, so it's always good to get more suggestions to read up about. Even if you don't end up visiting a place, it's great to find out more about it.

ukfiona

Maira (again) - I'm sure you'd love Southern France - have been a few times. Provence is glorious particularly when all the lavender is out (May-June). Avignon, Nimes etc very interesting towns. The Dordogne is also well worth touring around - perhaps not quite so full of Brits as it was a few years ago - barely a French car number plate in site when I visited several years ago, but I suspect the fashion has 'moved on' now!

Maira

ukfiona-- thanks for the encouragement on Southern France!! At some point, we were hoping to explore the Languedoc-Roussillon region (wine lovers!), as well as other wine regions in France. Most like yourself, the planning and anticipation is half the fun for me!! Good luck in all your travel plans!

sheila

Crete, Fiona. Wonderful in spring. Terrific mountains, lovely walking, Minoan ruins, Byzantine churches, and Venetian cities by the sea

bobthenavigator

IMHO, the key to your question is the early April time frame. That brings one word to mind---ANDALUSIA !

However, both Sicily and Crete would be on my short list as well.

ukfiona

Thanks, guys. I'm busy researching. Any more ideas, anyone...?

Kate_W

I mentioned this in an earlier post, but Exodus Travel does some good guided hikes, adventure vacations in Andulacia. I did one least year in the Sierra de Aracena and had a great time. Pretty villages, some nice churches/mosques - nothing particular was "spectacular" but lovely countryside. They've got some other tours in the same area, and an interesting "multi-activity" week a bit further south.

StCirq

I don't think you could go wrong with a trip to the Dordogne. It has every element you're looking for in spades - fabulous scenery, great hiking routes, history and culture since the dawn of mankind, plus amazing food. In early April there may be rainshowers, but it's unlikely to be very cold. And all the fruit trees will be in bloom or about the bloom, so the landscape will be particularly lovely and colorful.

mpprh

Hi

South of France ideas.

You may like to walk part of the Via Domitia (Roman Rd from Rome to Spain), or follow part of the pilgrims route to Compostella.

Or follow RLS journey in the Cevennes with a donkey.

In April the weather will be pleasantly warm.

Peter
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