Tuesday, February 15, 2011

GREECE IS THE WORD! (So is Derbyshire!) from JAE


Thinking of a week in Greece?

I know the TV is full of ads for holidays - but if anyone is thinking of planning a getaway to Greece I can highly recommend of hideaway island Andros. Completely unsophisticated, no high rises, no airport so no package holidays.
Andros is quite a big island by Greek standards, with a road system across the island that means you can get anywhere in under an hour - even by scooter ( the best form of transport)
There's really no night life other than the standard restaurants and a mix of tourists - not many Brits ;-)
There are loads of basic studios to hire that are significantly cheaper than the more developed islands like Mykanos. L
ast year we tried a somewhat more comfortable option - Blue Bay Village . It's actually just a small collection of apartment blocks - 4 in a building on two stories. Nicely equipped, some with kitchen facilities too. The good bit is that it's within a 15 minute walk to the town of Batsi , the main resort town on the island. Very quiet and with a stunning unbroken view over the sea. The nearest beach is 5 minutes walk away - a small beach with a taverna so a steady stream of cold beers and greek salads. All in all a completely chilled out getaway.
Prices per night vary from €70 for a studio for two in May to €170 for a maisonette for 4-5 in August. Worth paying that bit more than in the town!

Take a look at the website - www.blue-bay.gr/english










Or in Derbyshire?

Through Sawdays.co.uk ( the best website for characterful places to stay) we recently found Alstonefield Manor near Ashbourne. A stunning 16th century / Georgian manor house run by a lovely couple, Jo and Robert Wood.
It's been thoughtfully and beautifully decorated - probably thanks to Jo being a stylist for interiors / house magazines. She also bakes cakes for tea each day (JBD eat your heart out!) and a great breakfast.
Set in a typically picturesque village in the Peak District, it's perfectly located for long walks - no need to drive anywhere.
And only 100m from The George Inn - an award winning eatery - highly recommended!
Generally the Manor only takes booking for the whole weekend but we tried our luck with a late booking and got in for a night. They have a mix of accommodation including a cottage for self catering.
Room rates are £80 to £150 per night - B&B - well worth it!

www.alstonefieldmanor.com