From grand châteaus to cobbled, homely streets, the waterways of France are bursting with sights of interest, and you can experience them the most relaxing way possible, on a barge cruise.

When it comes to our holiday plans, so often we overlook the incredible destinations on our doorstep. But with so many stunning landscapes, from the Lake District to the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, the UK and Ireland offers a whole host of great staycation options.

The art of slow travel is about savoring the moment, soaking up every experience during your journey, even before you reach your destination.

A staple of dinner parties in the 70s, Black Forest Gateau has lost none of its retro charm and is an indulgent bake that combines the timeless flavours of cherries and chocolate. You can spice this recipe up with the addition of some kirsch liqueur or keep it alcohol-free.

It’s unsurprising that a river over five million years old should have a somewhat colourful history, and the Rhine doesn’t disappoint. A nation already famous for its dark yet irresistible fairytales, compiled by the Brothers Grimm, Germany’s dense forests and snaking valleys provide the perfect backdrop to a cornucopia of myths and legends that visitors still thrill to hear about today.

As winter snows thaw, welcome spring at one of France or Italy's largest street parties - Venice and Nice carnival - or soak up the colours of a million freshly opened tulips at the Keukenhof Gardens

There’s a reason why summer travel is historically so popular and that’s the weather. As an island nation with no guarantee of sun, it’s fantastic we have so many destinations to choose from that ensure we get our fill of vitamin D.

Discover the world in winter and step into a snow-globe world of seasonal beauty.

For so many of us, travel is a hugely important part of life, and even though we’re not able to explore the world right now, that doesn’t mean we have to stop dreaming about the trips we can take in the future.

Built on a myriad of canals interwoven with a labyrinth of atmospheric, narrow streets, Amsterdam is truly a delight to visit.

'Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness' begins the famous ode, 'To Autumn' by John Keats, in which he extolls the virtues of finding beauty in unexpected places.

Nothing beats the combination of flaky pastry and spicy apple filling, but this Austrian favourite is famous world-wide for good reason. Simple ingredients deliver bold flavours, with each bite whisking you further along the glorious Danube.