Skiing first time? Well yes, me too. I was never a what you might call a sporty kid. Netball was a no-no due to my challenged hand to eye co-ordination. I was always stuck in goal on the hockey field, decidedly ungainly in gait as I staggered around swaddled in thigh-high leg pads. My tennis style was described as ‘wild’ – and not in a good way.

Cross country runs were spent bunking off at a fellow failed jogger’s gaff who just happened to live en-route, and I distinctly recall being told by the games teacher that no athletics discipline would ever be ‘my sport’. I wasn’t fussed. I was good at other stuff, and positively distinction level when it came to sneaking a crafty fag behind the back of the bike sheds.

I distinctly recall being told by the games teacher that no athletics discipline would ever be ‘my sport’

There was, however, one sport that my teenage self always secretly longed to try. Skiing. To be honest, I think it had more to do with imagining myself hanging out with the beautiful people on some snow-capped mountain – 1970s and 80s Martini advert-style. That and the vision of a 19th century me channelling my own inner Anna Karenina. A vision moving silently across a moon-lit snowy landscape in a horse-drawn troika while swaddled in rugs and blankets.

Or in another incarnation, I resembled a nostalgic Christmas card as I perched, in full Edwardian period garb, primly on a sledge as I prepared to launch myself down a snow-covered mountain. And then there was all the yummy Alpine food to sample – fondue, raclette, goulash, and schnitzel with noodle.

Help! I need the slopes

I could have hit the snows in my 20s, 30s, 40s… but life always got in the way, somehow. And besides, whenever I thought about a winter holiday, sunshine always won over snow. But then, at the end of last year, I happened to watch the Beatles’ film Help. The sight of the Fab Four, or rather their stunt doubles, swooping down the oh-so-picturesque Austrian Alps to the strains of Ticket to Ride picqued my interest enough to finally try the ski and snow thing.

I read up on where Help was filmed, and discovered to my delight that you could stay in the hotel in the ski resort where John, Paul, George and Ringo had performed an impromptu gig for a crew member’s birthday party. Their only ever gig in Austria, incidentally, almost 60 years ago… Well, it was a done deal!

Summer travel more your thing? Read – Jacqui’s Cyprus trip honouring her mum

The Alpine comforts

While my retro ‘rubber’ soul longed to stay at the Marrietta (the name of the hotel where the Fab Four performed) circa mid 1960s, my 2024 body was highly delighted that in the early 2020s the hostelry had been extensively modernised, having been taken over by the Croatian-based company Valamar group and renamed ‘Places’.

No doubt the Marrietta was the place to be in its prime, but as we approach the end of the first quarter of the 21st century, Places ticks all the right modernist, style, and creature comfort boxes. The interior has been redesigned with a vibrant yet minimalist aesthetic. It feels luxurious but in a chic, funky kinda way. However, it’s touching that Places hasn’t forgotten its unique place in music history. There are several signed photos of the Beatles, in situ on the snowy set, in the lobby. Even more impressive is the fact that the drum kit actually used by Ringo Starr for the concert is on display in a corridor behind the lobby, along with more fascinating mop-top memorabilia.

When it comes to the bedrooms, think traditional alpine with a modern twist that feels like a warm cuddle. And, should you be in the mood for rather more than a hug, the complimentary pleasure boxes containing condoms and lubricant could well come in handy. On the other hand, should you be sharing the bed with a snorer, the complimentary earplugs will come as a godsend!

Not just a snowy landscape

Obertauern, which lies 5,708ft above sea level and is 55 miles south of Salzburg, is the winter holiday resort with the best snow record in Austria. But the skiing, the frolicking amidst the flurries, could wait. I wanted to explore Places.

There’s a stunning, subterranean indoor pool – kidney shaped rather than rectangular. Fine with me. I wasn’t planning on doing any laps. We’re talking serious unwind time, here. The lights are low, with loungers positioned on several levels. Plus, there are star-shaped floating bean bags! A first for me. Nearby is the stunning spa area and sauna, and the massage I treated myself to certainly didn’t disappoint.

The hotel boasts a trendy lounge and bar, think posh private members’ club vibe, and probably the smartest self-service restaurant I’ve ever been in. Guests are able to eat as much as they like in the evenings. Meat dishes, fish, salads, fab veggie options including gourmet handmade pizzas.

Opt for the ‘Places Flexi’ package and dinner is free, with each person given a 30-euro (£26) allowance a day to spend on food and drink at the bar as an alternative. Payment is made via wrist-worn electronic ‘watches’, which also open bedrooms and doors to various public spaces. Hi-tech or what?

But Place’s ‘piece de resistance’ is to be found on its top floor. There’s a seriously fun 400-sq-m (4,305-sq-ft) top-floor gaming area complete with a soft-play complex and all manner of computer games and consuls. Next door is a rooftop bar with jaw-dropping valley views. I enjoyed a Campari-spritz on the balcony while taking in the vista, warmed by a table-top open fire. Now, that was a Martini moment for sure.

So. . . what about the skiing?

Well, I got myself decked out at the Freudenaus Sport Rental next door to the hotel. Skis, helmet, sticks, ski boots… you know the drill. Except that, er, I didn’t. Not really. In all my ski-land visualisations, I’d never pictured myself actually skiing. The nuts-and-bolts stuff. And if I’d thought hockey goal keeping garb was stagger-worthy, blimey, I didn’t know the half of it. Give me thigh-high, Michelin man-like leg pads over ski boots any day! Clomping about, I felt like a clone of Frankenstein – and that was just outside the hotel.

Prep for your skiing trip with a quality pair of waterproof boots. Like these tactical boots which are even up to military standard!

I had a lesson on the nursery slopes with an instructor from the Obertauern Frau Holle ski school – he was very patient but by the end of the session, he gave me a broken English echo of my school games’ teacher’s words. Skiing clearly wasn’t ‘quite my sport’.

Alison (far right) and friends before heading down the slopes

The sledging fantasy

So let’s try sledging or sledding. Arranged by the uber efficient Valdermar folk, I pitched up at dusk at the Gnadenalm Alpine experience, about six km from Obertauern.  The toboggan taxi – a snowmobile with old-fashioned wooden toboggans attached to the side – zipped us up to the top of a mountain. At least it felt like the top to me, and the start of the flood-lit 1.5km long run. We were dropped off with the sledges. ‘Now what?’ I said, somewhat naively. ‘You go down,’ came the reply. As the driver sped away, there was no option but to follow his instructions. Reader, it was the ride of my life. Scary, yes, but incredibly exhilarating.

Zooming down snow-covered peaks and mounds, I felt more Bond girl in the Spy Who Loved Me than lady on front of an Edwardian Christmas card. But no matter. I had a real sense of achievement on reaching the bottom. My Anna Karenina fantasy followed as I climbed aboard the troika or carriage, attached to two massive cart horses, and made myself comfortable against the cushions and under the blankets. Sleigh bells rang out as we wended our way across the snow-covered countryside by moonlight while sipping on shots of Schnapps. It was possibly one of the most romantic moments of my life!

Great grub, to top it all off

It had been an incredible evening but it wasn’t over yet. A full-on Alpine feast comprising of fondue, raclette and cheese dumplings followed at the Restaurant Wirtshaus Gnadenalmin, the most Heidi-esque eaterie imaginable. All roaring fires, pine wood panelling, red and white check cushions and table cloths, and heart-shaped dining chairs.

Skiing may not be for me but this trip made me realise that I have fallen for the snow in a big way. Next visit I intend to channel Julie Christie in Dr Zhivago – but I guess I’ll need to find my Omar Shariff first.

Going on your own Alpine adventure

Getting There

Wizz Air – return flights in January 2025 from London airports to Salzburg from £57.00
Easy Jet – return flights in January 2025 from London airports to Salzburg from £54.00
British Airways – return flights in January 2025 from London airports to Salzburg from £139.00

Taxi transfer from Salzburg to Obertauern – approximately €165.00, good value if there’s four of you

Accommodation

Places by Valamar – from €316.00 per night/double room

Ski Stuff

Ski Equipment Hire from Silver Ski Equipment

Boots – €27 per day
Helmet – €16.20 per day
Skis and sticks – €34.50 per day

Ski pass – €65 per day

Ski lesson for beginners at the Obertauern Frau Holle ski school – €121.50 per day, €252.00 for three days

Carriage Ride and Sledding

One hour carriage ride for four people – €90

Toboggan rental: € 9 per toboggan
Toboggan taxi: € 8 per ride & person

Alison James

The post Winter wonderland – skiing for the first time appeared first on Silver Magazine.

The weather is mild, school holidays are over, and the days are still long. A September city break is the perfect short trip to satisfy your travel cravings. These extraordinary European capitals are easy to get to, and full of rich culture to fill a weekend.

Read more: Four of the best destinations for your must-see list

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Just 250 miles from the UK coastline, Amsterdam is one of the most convenient options for a European city break. You can reach Amsterdam via cruises from Southampton and by ferry from the east coast, or flights run frequently from most UK airports.

With a reasonably small centre, Amsterdam is easily explored during a long weekend. Cycling is a popular mode of transport here, or you can sail your way around the city on the iconic canal network. There is a variety of museums and galleries to visit including Anne Frank’s house and the Van Gogh Museum, while just outside of the centre you will find idyllic windmill-dotted countryside. 

Paris, France

Also easily reached is Paris. Flights and ferries are again an option, or Londoners can take advantage of the Eurostar train from St. Pancras which reaches Paris in just 2.5 hours.

France’s capital is utterly magnificent, from the grandiose buildings that lines the wide boulevards, to the exquisite cuisine that is praised the world over. Climbing to the top of the Eiffel Tower is a must for your itinerary, as is a trip to the Louvre and the city’s other world-class art galleries. Break up your sightseeing with strolls in the picturesque city parks, and a delicious cake at an authentic patisserie.

Budapest, Hungary

Slightly further afield but well-worth the flight is Budapest, capital of Hungary. This destination has risen in popularity in recent years and has benefitted greatly from the influx of tourists.

The city is divided down the middle by a broad river, with ‘Buda’ on one side and ‘Pest’ on the other. Elaborate bridges connect one to the other, and you can even stand between them by visiting the tranquil Margaret Island. Highlights of a city break in Budapest include the majestic architecture, notably the parliament building and St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the huge Szechenyi thermal baths.

Lisbon, Portugal

Seeking the catch the last of the summer sunshine? Get on a plane to Lisbon which enjoys temperatures up to the mid-twenties all the way into October. 

Portugal’s coastal capital is another destination that has seen a spike in visitors in recent years. Its sheer beauty attracts tourists of all ages, although older travellers may find the hilly terrain tiring. The riverside region of Belém is a favourite spot because of its laidback atmosphere and historic highlights such as the gothic Jerónimos Monastery. Make sure to stop off for a traditional Portuguese custard tart at the popular Pastéis de Belém.

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The post Four best European capitals for a September city break appeared first on Silver Magazine.

How are you finding your Dry January? If you’re already ready to rip, and counting the hours until it’s over, let me tell you about a trip I had to Cyprus with an itinerary including gin and wine tasting.

I’d been trying to hop on the wagon before I went, but that went out of the window almost immediately. On arrival at the luxurious Asimina Hotel in Paphos, abstinence became a distant memory as soon as the champagne appeared. A cocktail or two later and I’d well and truly fallen.

Later in the stay I was treated to a gin-tasting and education session from a very knowledgeable Cypriot chap called George. These sessions can be arranged in advance for guests.

Fortunately, there was food…

Lucky I wasn’t on a diet, as that too would have been all but a distant memory once I stepped over the threshold of one of the four on-site restaurants. The outdoor eatery, nestled in a leafy corner of the resort, was my favourite. 

The terrace restaurant is five star and classy, with low lighting and a medium-sized a la carte menu. A team of international chefs do the cooking, not only of traditional Cypriot dishes but also of Thai and Italian delights. 

Dining under the stars, with a view of the sea, being served exquisite food (the grilled swordfish, and garlic and chilli salmon were especially good), and divine cocktails was a complete joy. The French Martini – vodka, peach juice and Chambord – quickly became my new favourite cocktail.

The second morning, a cookery lesson on the terrace – courtesy of the hotel chef – was fun, despite my slight hangover. We made moussaka Cypriot style (beef and pork instead of lamb) and a veggie version too, made with layers of aubergine and mushroom. That was lunch sorted.

The lush life

Relaxing by one of the two large pools was delightful, and waiter service considerably enhanced the experience. There’s nothing quite as decadent as ordering French Martinis from a supine position and going for dips between sips.

There’s nothing quite as decadent as ordering French Martinis from a supine position and going for dips between sips

The evening view from my suite – no rooms here, just luxury suites, complete with comfortable lounge, kitchen area with a well-stocked mini-bar, sumptuous bedroom with queen size bed and spacious marble-clad bathroom with a gorgeous deep bath and huge shower – was stunning. (Twelve of the 111 suites have their own private sea-view pools.)

From my second floor apartment, I could see terraces, an array of shrubs, flowers, tall palm trees and one of two outdoor pools. A few steps beyond the pools the Mediterranean Sea, edged by the Kato Paphos beach, sparkled as the orange sun dipped into the hazy horizon.

In love with my bathroom

The weather at this time of year (mid-October) was more than clement: a comfortable 25 degrees with a warm and gentle breeze. No jacket required – not even when eating out in the evenings. When it’s cooler, staying in isn’t a bad option as the hotel has an indoor pool and jacuzzi, four bars, a hair salon, a gym, a shop and evening entertainment.

Read: Great walking holidays in Europe

Historical tours and Cleopatra 

A full day tour took me to the harbour in Paphos where we explored Pafos Castle (a 13th century Byzantine fortress, dismantled by the Venetians and rebuilt by the Ottomans in 1592) and to the Paphos Archaeological Park in Nea Pafos where I – and other tourists – viewed the ancient mosaic floors of Roman ruins (comprising five houses built around the second century and unearthed in the 1980s).

The tiled floors are mostly intact and depicted all kinds of myths, one being the tragic love story of Dionysis and Ariadne, the tale on which Shakespeare allegedly based Romeo And Juliet.

The tour guide explained how Cleopatra’s descendants once ruled Cyprus. She also told us how the pods of the indigenous carob tree, each being exactly the same size and weight as the next, were once used to weigh gold, giving rise to the word ‘carat’.

I learned that cats were brought to the island many years ago to kill off the snakes. (It didn’t work; the island is now home to many species of snake and a whole load of ownerless but very well-fed cats).

Another fascinating fact is that English king, Richard The Lionheart, got married in Cyprus in 1191: the only British royal wedding that’s taken place somewhere other than the UK.

Along the coast, I stopped at Aphrodite’s Rock. Aphrodite – the Greek goddess of love – was said to have been born in Paphos, not in the usual way of course but by emerging from the foam of the sea.

Aphrodite’s Rock, Cyprus. Photo: Dimitris Vetsikas

Wines fit for the Gods

Despite the island’s 6000-year history of wine-making, most Brits aren’t familiar with Cypriot wines. And probably wouldn’t think of Cyprus for wine tasting. An hour by car northwards, by the Troos mountains, was Ktemo Gerolemo, a winery where I keenly sampled an array of Cypriot wines.

Many of the wineries are run by families, who have not yet got into the whole business of export. The white, red and rosé were delicious and surprisingly smooth, the dessert wines were syrupy sweet, and the fiery Cypriot brandy called Zivania (which I necked as a shot, and really shouldn’t have!): it felt so medicinal that I now feel 100% safe from lurgies of all kinds this winter.

The village of Omodos, a little further north, is quaint and hilly with cobbled streets and many cute little shops and restaurants.

The narrow street with the small stone houses, colourful wooden doors and old amphoras, Omodos, Cyprus.

We lunched here – at Stou Kir Yianni – on a decadent, 16 course mezze of Greek salad, spinach pies, Cypriot sausages, chicken kebabs, roast pork and roast potatoes. I learnt something new about myself too – that, after years of disliking them, I suddenly love truffles. Maybe Cypriot ones are different to British ones – I don’t know – but the truffle pasta was out-of-this-world delicious. The mezze was so huge, the tour guide ended up with a takeaway big enough to feed her and her family for at least a week.

Other nights out included champagne at the glitzy rooftop bar at a neighbouring hotel, a meal at Fetta’s Corner in Paphos town, followed by cocktails and shisha at a lively bar until the early hours.

So much for sober October!

Visit the Constantinou Bros Asimina Suites Hotel

If you’re looking for a good value spring break, consider Paphos. And definitely consider this amazing hotel. Winner of over 16 awards in the last two years, the Constantinou Bros Asimina Suites Hotel, Paphos – with prices from £999 for 7 night departures in May 2023 in a Junior Suite land view room on B&B with flights from Gatwick including private transfers – are taking bookings now. (Early booking discount: save 20% for all bookings until 28th February 2023.)

For further information please call the Constantinou Bros Hotels UK Sales office on 01924 380160

Website:  www.cbh-cyprus.com

Jacqui Deevoy

Jacqui Deevoy has been a freelance journalist for over three decades, starting out on teenage magazines, then later working for women’s magazines worldwide, and national newspapers including the Daily Mail, the Mirror, Express and Telegraph. These days, as well as writing for magazines, papers and websites, she produces documentaries and hosts a Monday night talk show for Unprecedented TV.

The post Dreaming of a holiday? Try Cyprus for wine tasting appeared first on Silver Magazine.

One of the more unique ways to experience a country in all its natural wonders is on a guided walking holiday. As an experienced walker, or a more moderate paced hiker, Travel Department provide a range of exciting itineraries; here are some of our suggestions for some of the best walking holidays in Europe.

And we’ve even got some special Silver discount codes for you.

Money off holidays?!

Yes! Silver Magazine and Travel Department want to help you fall in love with travel again in 2022 and 2023.  Travel Department is delighted to offer readers of Silver Magazine an exclusive code to use on a fantastic range of 2022 & 2023 holidays.

SAVE £75pp* on any holiday of 8 nights or more. Use promo code: SMAG75

SAVE £50pp* on any holiday of 7 nights. Use promo code: SMAG50

SAVE £25pp* on any holiday of 6 nights or less. Use promo code: SMAG25

If you have any questions, or would simply like to learn more about their wonderful destinations, why not give one of their brilliant team a call on 0117 911 7019

Ireland

Irish hills (Image: Pixabay)

There is no need to travel the length of the world to enjoy an invigorating trek through the countryside. You can admire the breath-taking landscapes in Kerry, discover highlights like Killarney National Park, Knocknadobar Mountain and the Dingle Peninsula on an Irish walking holiday. Walk along the iconic backdrop of the Cliffs of Moher during our Burren Walking Holiday or explore Glenveagh National Park on our Donegal Walking Holiday.

Spain

The Sierra Nevada (Image: Pixabay)

On one of TD’s fully guided walking trips to Spain, you can take a range of routes that allow you to explore some of the country’s most unforgettable trails. From a hiking trip through the Sierra Nevada mountains to a perfectly paced adventure walking the Camino de Santiago, the iconic ancient pilgrimage route for hundreds of years. With gorgeous weather, rich heritage and stunning scenery just waiting to be explored.

Andorra

Andorra may be well known for its ski resorts, but it is the perfect destination for mountain walking in the warmer months. Nestled between the French and Spanish border it has 65 peaks that stand at over 2,000m high. You’ll be based in the mountain village of La Massana, where we’ll see the top highlights of Andorra. You’ll get to discover the Andorran Pyrenees, Lake Moreno, Griu Summit and much more.

Hungary

Denbue river (Image: Pixabay)

The Danube Bend, a region of peaks and river towns in Northern Hungary, is where the hills on both banks force the river to turn sharply and flow southward, creating arguably the most picturesque stretch of the Danube. You can explore this beautiful region by foot on a Hungary Walking Holiday.

Prefer a holiday focused on food? Check our foodie guide to Italy

Romania

Romanian views (Image: Pixabay)

Explore the Romanian countryside on a guided walking holiday to Transylvania. Along with invigorating treks in the Bucegi Mountains and Carpathian Mountain range, you’ll visit Transylvania’s most iconic landmark, Bran Castle. Also known as the home of Dracula and explore Romania’s capital Bucharest.

Slovenia

The Julian Alps (Image: Pixabay)

Slovenia is a country that offers unlimited opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Set against the backdrop of the Julian Alps on their Slovenia Walking Holiday, you’ll trek through gorges, explore national parks, tackle mountain peaks and discover Lake Bohinj.

So how does it all work?

You might be wondering about the logistics of a walking holiday? TD’s active walking holidays are split to accommodate different walking levels. The levels are judged by the average distance, terrain, and incline covered in each holiday. Sometimes, an orientation meeting is held before your first walk, to give the group a chance to meet the local guides and decide which level suites them.

There is a great sense of camaraderie during TD active’s walking holidays

There is a great sense of camaraderie during TD active’s walking holidays, making them suitable for everyone – solo travellers, groups of friends, couples and even family members. TD active Holidays work with a fantastic team of local expert walking guides. All members are well looked after, so you return from your holidays with some fun new memories.

To keep things operating effectively, the walking guides give regular briefings to inform you about what is happening in the next few days. So you’re always aware of timings and what you need to bring for each walking day.

Some might think that embarking on a walking holiday seems a little too strenuous for a “holiday”. However, the sense of accomplishment and adventure you feel at the end of a walk in the Alps, upon reaching the peak of Mulchaen in the Sierra Nevada mountain range or trekking the Camino, is something you cannot get simply laying by the pool on a typical holiday. 

TD active’s walking holidays, local expert walking guides, incredible itineraries and accommodation are all included, so all you have to do is lace up your walking boots on arrival!

About Travel Department:

Silver Magazine chooses its partners very carefully, and Travel Department is no exception. With nearly 30 years’ experience perfecting tours to around 140 destinations worldwide, Travel Department’s escorted holidays typically include flights, accommodation, transfers, and guided tours. They carefully plan your trip, so you experience the best holiday highlights accompanied by a friendly local guide.

They offer a wide range of guided group holidays from city breaks or solo travel to active and adventure holidays (including walking, yoga and photography holidays) with their sister brand, TD active Holidays.

With multiple departure airports across the UK, you can fly from Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow in Scotland. In Northern Ireland they fly from Belfast (plus Dublin and Cork) and for passengers from the South they depart from Bristol and a range of London airports.

The mood is upbeat, friendly, and inclusive, where everyone feels welcome.

Travel Department’s escorted holidays typically include flights, accommodation, transfers, and guided tours. They carefully plan your trip, so you experience the best holiday highlights accompanied by a friendly local guide. With Travel Department you see more!

Lana Hall

Lana can usually be found spinning her collection of records, or writing odd poems in her phone notes. Her mixer of choice is a ginger beer, and you’ll never find her away from the sea for more than a few weeks.

The post Take a hike: Best walking holidays in Europe appeared first on Silver Magazine.