Cruise News FOR MORE
Memories along Devon coast
rolling surf and huge stretch of golden sand, Woolacombe has won prizes for its beauty.
At the southern end, the beach turns into Putsborough, which is quieter, rockier, and has a trendy beach café.
Neighbouring Croyde Bay and Saunton Sands are also both sandy, enormous, and spectacular for riding the waves.
For something more secluded, head for Barricane Beach, a tiny cove covered with intricate shells. Those in the know gather here to watch the sun set between the rocks and eat Sri Lankan curry from the seasonal takeaway café. Further up the coast is the hilltop village of Mortehoe, with lovely pubs and a superb fish and chip shop. It also sells chilled seafood platters. There’s also the arty town of Ilfracombe. It’s got a famous tidal pool, as well as being home to Damien PRINCESS Cruises have deals on select cruises booked before April 30, writes Vicky Lissaman.
First and second guests sharing a stateroom get up to $250 (around £188) onboard spending money on a variety of Med departures in 2020 on the 3,080-guest Crown Princess. Hirst’s controversial statue Verity, which towers over the harbour.
Unfortunately, the concept and craftsmanship of the metal sculpture of a pregnant woman holding aloft a sword were lost on little Freddie and Albi.
They just couldn’t wait to get back to our caravan at the Surf Village to spot the wild rabbits roaming on the grass, which they’d adopted as pets. Voyages range up to 21 days and cover destinations such as Greece, Italy, Spain and France. There is also a low deposit of £50.
Alternatively, up to £400pp flight discount is on offer for America-based voyages in 2019 and 2020, ranging from seven to 28 days. Destinations include Canada and New England, the Caribbean, Hawaii and Mexico.
The flight offer includes several sailings on Sky Princess – a 3,660-guest ship which launches in October with an inaugural season in the Med. See princesscruises.com. THERE’S so much more to Majorca than Magaluf with its boozy Brits downing shots into the wee small hours.
The five-star Carrossa Hotel Spa Villas, near the small town of Arta, is as far from neon signs and booming music as you can get.
It has reopened after a major restoration added 45 suites. Set within a 340-hectare estate and with views across the island, it is an oasis of calm and perfect for those looking for a change of pace.
Carrossa comes across less like a formal, posh hotel than a sprawling country estate, albeit with Mediterranean styling. And it’s all the better for it.
The hotel itself is a 300-year-old converted manor house, and that atmosphere has been preserved with striking architecture and a welcoming feel.
THE FOOD There are a number of excellent restaurants at the hotel, offering dining both indoor and outdoor on the terrace, where you can enjoy striking panoramic views.
The Fine Dining Restaurant does exactly what it says on the tin – offering stunning food and memorable meals.
As you would expect on an island, the seafood is particularly good and the tasting menu is a true delight.
THE SPA
This is the hotel’s centrepiece, with a heated, outdoor infinity pool boasting fine views along with a bar. Treatments on offer to guests include hot-stone massage and aromatherapy, and there are three types of sauna to try out.
THE ROOMS There are 75, divided between the main manor house building and villas spread out among olive groves.
Manor house rooms sleep up to four adults in modern luxury, while the new suites have private terraces and large bathrooms with walk-in showers.
Villas sleep eight adults over two floors and come complete with their own infinity pools and shaded terraces.
TEEING OFF The Carrossa is ideal for golfers, with a number of excellent courses close by. The 18-hole Capdepera is built on a former almond plantation and its Roca Viva restaurant is worth a visit, whether or not you are playing.
SIGHTSEEING The small town of Arta is just three miles away. Check out its bustling market and the views from the church of Sant Salvador.
Son Serra de Marina offers long sandy beaches and surfing.
If you fancy something to eat here, Lago Son Serra on the beachfront does a very impressive paella. GET THERE: EasyJet flies to Majorca from Bristol, Manchester, Liverpool, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, Southend and Belfast, with fares starting at £47.46. See easyjet.com. BOOK IT: Rates at the Carrossa Hotel Spa Villas start at £180pp pn B&B, based on two sharing. Visit carrossa.com. MORE INFO: See spain.info.