Travelling to Europe might not be the easiest option at the moment, but there are plenty of things to see here at home that are a perfect match for their Continental counterparts

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

›› WALK ON

The Camino de Santiago pilgrims’ route, which begins in France and tracks across northern Spain before ending at the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, is undoubtedly a special trail packed full of wonderful views and pretty towns and villages, but the coastal walks of southern and south-west England are as beautiful, and far more accessible, too.

What’s there and why visit?

The South West Coast Path is the UK’s longest national trail, stretching 630 miles around the south-west peninsula, from the picturesque fishing villages of the south coast, around Land’s End to the surfing beaches of the north (www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/walk-coast-path).

Alternatively, the South Downs Way weaves its way across Hampshire and Sussex for 100 miles, affording wonderful views of the countryside and coast below (www.nationaltrail.co.uk/en_GB/trails/ south-downs-way).

Must see

The south-west is packed with highlights, but we particularly love Clovelly, in Devon, with its narrow cobbled streets and fine harbour. Views of the Minack Theatre (pictured below), perched on the cliffs high above Porthcurno Beach in Cornwall, are impossibly beautiful.

In Sussex, the evocatively named Ditchling Beacon, Devil’s Dyke and Seven Sisters have panoramic sights to match.

VisitBritain/Tomo Brejc

Where to stay

n Sennen Cove Camping & Caravanning Club Site is well placed for the Minack and walks from Sennen Cove to Land’s End.

› www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

n Brighton Caravan Club Site makes a great base for exploring nearby Ditchling Beacon and for walks over the Seven Sisters hills towards Eastbourne.

› www.caravanclub.co.uk

Why we love it A chance to see England at its beautiful best and to recharge the batteries with a shot of power from Mother Nature.

›› I AM SAILING

The Greek Islands have long been a favoured destination with sailors of all abilities, from the experienced looking to challenge themselves in the wake of Odysseus, to those preferring the gentler excursion of a guided flotilla holiday.