British Airways have conveniently announced that it will be reinstating its Gatwick to Nice route as from 25 March, 2012. We say convenient because the announcement coincides with Vintage Travel adding some very special villas in Cote d’azur to our extensive portfolio.

And unlike many other airline routes that only fly once or twice a week, there will be three flights a day leaving Gatwick Airport and arriving in Nice. Prices for this route with BA start from £49 each way.

Why not take advantage of these frequent and inexpensive flights and visit the stunning Cote d’Azur this spring? Alongside the noticeably sunnier and milder climate that this part of France is invariably blessed with all year round, the ‘Printemps des Musees’ will be occurring.

Each year every museum in the city of Nice waive their entrance fees for just one day, to enable everyone to have the opportunity to discover Nice’s unique and rich artistic and cultural heritage for free.

Although it’s not just Nice that is involved in the ‘Printemps des Musees’ event, as many museums across the Cote d’Azur also participate in this culturally and artistically-enriching event.

The museums that have participated in previous Pretemps des Musees events include, the Musee d’Art et d’Historie in Bromes-Les-Mimosas, the Musee International de la Parfumerie in Grasse, the Musee des Fossiles in Tourtour, Musee Picasso and Musee de la Ceramique, both in Vallauris, the Musee d’Art et d’Historie in Villefranche-sur-Mer, the Musee des Papillons in St Tropez, and, of course, many museums in Nice including the MAMAC, which commences the Printemps des Musees with a guided tour of the museum.

With BA now flying three times a day from Gatwick to Nice, you have little excuse to not attend Nice’s and the Cote d’Azur’s stimulating Printemps des Musees.

For more information visit printempsdesmusees.culture.fr

Whilst it would be impossible to report on every fiesta occurring in Spain during the months of January and February, our attention is riveted to Malaga and to the Fiestas de Carnaval Malaga 2012.

Each year the Andalucian coastal town of Malaga hosts a huge carnival celebration, where fireworks, parades and partying take priority for more than three weeks.

This highly anticipated event offers a range of activities, both traditional and new, ranging from Flamenco dancing typical of Andalucia, to the crowning of the Carnival Queen, best singer award and a highly amusing fancy dress competition.

Lovers of shopping will also be in their element at the Fiestas de Carnaval Malaga 2012, as stalls selling traditional, hand-crafted artefacts, unique pottery and ceramics and many, many other local delights, are scattered across this sophisticated Spanish city.

This year the Fiestas de Carnaval Malaga is already in full flow (from January 22) and runs until February 19. You should really witness the hundreds of street musicians, bands, parades, costumes, fireworks, entertainers and even join the Feast of February in the Hall of Mirrors, and do as the Spanish do, party at a time when other are wallowing in self-pity!

For more information on the Fiestas de Carnaval Malaga 2012 visit the official website at carnavaldemalaga.com.

Vintage Travel’s portfolio of holiday villas in Provence and the Cote d’Azur is intensifying in quantity, quality and grandeur, with the arrival of yet two more stunning villas.

The latest of our holiday villas in Provence is the villa Mas des Oliviers nestled within the pastel hillside village of Speracedes, 7 km from Grasse and 25 km from Cannes, blossoms under a superb Mediterranean environment, surrounded by cypresses and olive trees, hence the property’s well-chosen name ‘Mas des Oliviers’.

This stunning villa has 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and can sleep up to six people. Its isolated spot equidistant between the ocean and the mountains means Mas des Oliviers sports to-die-for panoramic views.

Beautifully restored to maintain an exterior typical of the Provencal style, this breath-taking house combines traditional décor with a contemporary, bright and airy style, and the results are simply divine. This eclectic mix of the modern and traditional means that there is cosiness and warmth attached to Mas des Oliviers that is not present in many modern villas.

Outside the villa is equally as absorbing, with a spacious terrace that extends the whole length of the house and a tiered garden providing guests with an outdoor rapture of magnificent views, a dip in the beautiful private pool, taking a walk through the cascading gardens, amidst a Mediterranean landscape at its most privileged.

For prices, availability and photographs of Mas des Oliviers, our newest addition to our holiday villas in Provence, click on the link.

Equally as extraordinary is Passiflore, situated close to the medieval fortified village of St. Cezaire, which sits proudly on a mountain ledge, overlooking the Siagne River and a densely forested valley.

This magnificent villa has 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and can accommodate up to six guests. Possessing a subtle Oriental theme, Passiflore oozes exoticness, spaciousness and style. Its blend of pastel shades and natural tones creates a sense of friendliness, an affability that continues into the property’s extensive exterior.

Children and adults alike just love to explore these extensive grounds, which comprise of an inviting pool infringed with indigenous palm trees and exotic shrubs. Whilst a nearby summer kitchen means that guests never have to travel far for an ice-cold drink to refresh themselves!

With a Costa de la Luz holiday, you can explore the intricate streets of mediaeval villages, enjoy freshly-caught fish in seaside restaurants, marvel at the wildlife in the protected natural parks, visit the beautiful and historic cities of Cádiz, Jerez and Seville, which are all within easy reach. And, of course, relax in your holiday villa with its own private pool.

Those in the know return to this Coast of Light year after year, but you don’t have to take our word for it. Our clients’ comments explain why you’ll fall in love with a Costa de la Luz holiday in this delightful area of Andalucía.

“Tim loved the day trip to Tangiers; Kerrie loved the flamingos on the boat trip to the Doñana nature reserve; Flo loved having a beach 5 minutes away; Uncle Richard loved the fish and wine; Stephy loved going on a horse and cart in Jerez; George loved going on the train at the Tio Pepe bodega in Jerez. And we all loved swimming in the pool every day!”

The Grant Family (and Uncle Richard) stayed in Casa Almendro, El Colorado, Conil (pictured).

“We had a magical time and I can’t begin to describe how perfect everything was. The swimming pool and surroundings were stunning and protected by the most amazing climbing plants and fruit trees. At night we could hear owls hooting. I actually cried when I had to leave.”

Ms. S. Roberts stayed in Casa de la Fuente, Vejer de la Frontera

“We had a wonderful week. Fuente del Gallo is a great location – a single, palm tree lined road that leads to a quiet beach. The garden is a great size, the boys kicking a ball around – and safe.1 minute from the house is a neighbourhood restaurant that has good food. Cadiz is only a 30 minute drive away, the Torre Tavira and its Camera Obscura was loved by the boys.

The Woodard family stayed in El Chozo, Conil de la Frontera

“Great house and great pool! Fab barbecue and amazing chameleons on the poolside fence. We loved El Palmar and Caños de Meca beaches. Don’t really want to go home…..”

The Jacobs and Woods families stayed at Finca Cigüeña, Hozalejos, Chiclana

“The cove at Roche was our favourite with rocks for shade and great swimming. Bolonia was a great day out, the beach and Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia were impressive and lunch at the bar on the beach was friendly and tasty.”

The Sharman family stayed at Casa Olivo, El Colorado, Conil de la Frontera

“A beautiful place to stay in quality accommodation. We loved the house, the grounds and the luxury of a decent-sized pool. Thank you for your generosity, Jean Pierre.”

Lyn and Jo stayed at La Olivilla, Vejer de la Frontera.

“Our highlights were Gibraltar – take the cable car to the top of the Rock for amazing views (including the mountains of Morocco) and of course the apes – Vejer, which is a lovely town (we thoroughly recommend the Jardín de Califa restaurant) and Jerez, where we visited the Tio Pepe sherry bodega which was very interesting.”

Fiona, Julian, Katherine and Lexie stayed at Casa Abeto, El Colorado, Conil de la Frontera

“We had a lovely stay and managed to relax as well as see some of the lovely places nearby: Cádiz, Jerez, El Puerto de Santa María. We also had a lovely drive along the coast to Cape Trafalgar and on to Vejer. Everyone has been very friendly and helpful. We hope to be back soon, perhaps for a wedding anniversary as we got engaged at Casa Manue on this trip!”

Charlie and Andy stayed at Casa Manue, El Colorado, Conil de la Frontera.

Although when we put Portugal in the race for our summer holiday, one tends to always think of the Algarve. Whilst beautiful, charming, climatically-enviable and great value for money the Algarve is, Vintage Travel felt compelled to tell you about the town of Ponte de Lima, Portugal’s most atmospheric town.

Situated on the south bank of the Lima River facing a splendid Roman Bridge lies the pretty little market town of Ponte de Lima. Being founded on the site of a Celtic settlement and later nurtured by the Romans, this laid-back market town is simply oozing with history and culture.

According to legend, the Romans believed that the Lima was the ‘Lethe’, a mythical River of Oblivion whereby anyone who crossed it would forget everything and have to stay in the village forever. Although this ancient myth bears a degree of truth today, as, when present in Ponte de Lima, your woes and troubles of life back home are easy to forget and time in this pleasantly phlegmatic town, seems to stand still.

Sipping a chilled Portuguese wine accompanied by olives in the ‘Largo de Camoes’, the town’s main square, watching the laid-back life here take place in the many cafes and bars that surround the square’s 18^th century fountain, has to typify the very essence of a ‘relaxing break’.

If you can manage to drag yourself away from this mesmerising square a trip across the river to the 15^th century Saint Anthony Convent, which stands adjacent to the Sao Francisco Church that was erected in the 18^th century, is definitely worth your exertions.

On second thoughts, you could just stay put and order another a drink. Either way Ponte de Lima, 90 km to the north of Porto should definitely be a realistic contender for your 2012 holiday, because after all, holidays are all about relaxing!

For luxury villas in Portugal with pools, you should see the fine collection from Vintage Travel.

For those of you who cannot wait a whole seven or eight months to go and holiday and like to take a break abroad in May, then you may appreciate being informed about the Festival of Brittany 2012, which is taking place from the 17 -28 May, 2012.

Since 2009, the Festival of Brittany has been dedicated to proving to the rest of France, Europe and even beyond, how modern and cosmopolitan the region is. And boy does it do it in style! From exhibitions, concerts, markets and activities, this energetic festival has something for everyone.

Brittany is one of the most traditional regions in France and excels in offering its visitors a traditional trip back in time, especially in history, gastronomy and religious domains.

Although alongside the striped skirts, bicycles, berets, cidre and moules, Brittany seems to have an unparalleled talent at making something new out of something old.

This is the essence behind the Festival of Brittany, which includes a ‘fest-noz’ – a night-time feast – which beholds the slogan ‘biniou’ – be new!

Of course in holding such a ‘vague’ and ‘elusive’ slogan, the Festival of Brittany’s ‘fest-noz’ really is open to pretty much anything. In previous years the ‘fest-noz’ night of this festival, with street theatre, singing, eating, dancing, drinking and merriment, going on until the early hours of the morning, really is the focal part of the Brittany Festival.

To ensure this year’s event excels previous years in the ‘biniou’ stakes, the festival organisers are calling upon any wacky associations and quirky cultural groups to participate in the Brittany Festival 2012 and make this one more ‘biniou’ than ever.

Visit: fetedelabretagne.com for further details on what promises to be a memorable event.

If you needed an excuse to visit the majestic island of Mallorca this spring, then excuses don’t come much more ‘valid’ than this. 2012 will see the 29^th Palma International Boat Show bob on the waters of Palma’s stunning harbour.

The Palma de Mallorca International Boat Show 2012 is a nine day event has become a major point of reference on the international sailing scene, and given that more than 700 craft on land, 280 in the sea, and the swelling accumulation of superyachts, many more than 45-feet long, it’s no wonder the Palma International Boat Show is a hub for everyone whose anyone in the international sailing circuit.

Not only do buyers and sellers accumulate in Mallorca’s capital in late April / early May, but the event, being held at one of the best regatta courses in the world, provides a sensational opportunity for many sea trials to take place, which are almost as exhilarating to watch as they are to participate in – well almost!

This exclusive, highly profitable and exceedingly entertaining event could not be held at a more deserving destination. The port of Palma is considered to be one of the most prestigious boating centres in, not only Europe, but the world.

Asides watching this incredible exhibition of floating boats, visitors to the show can take the opportunity to explore the winding cobbled streets and browse the quirky craft shops that surround the harbour, and witness Palma de Mallorca’s unique architectural combination of its vibrant history of African and European control.

If you are a boating enthusiast or even if you are not a boating enthusiast but are looking for a memorable spring getaway with a difference, a trip to the Palma International Boat Show is highly recommended – A show that is at the very heart of the Mediterranean and where boating is one of the most important social and economic activities.

And if that’s not reason enough to visit Mallorca, have a look at Vintage Travel’s impressive collection of luxury villas in Mallorca.

Barcelona is an energetic, exciting and buoyant town all year round. Being the ‘art capital of Spain’ and even beyond, being home to some of the best tapas chefs in the whole of Spain, and with a pulsating events scene that caters for every taste, age and ethnicity, you will never be stuck for things to do in the magnificently spirited Catalonian capital.

But why not coincide your visit to one of the most exciting cities in Europe with your New Year quest to improve your fitness levels?

Without beating around the bush, why not head to Barcelona on February 26 this year and participate in the ‘Mitja Marato de Barcelona 2012’, the ‘Barcelona Half Marathon 2012’, or failing that you could always go and watch it?

Runners from all over the world of all ages and abilities flock to the Catalan capital to participate in this popular sporting event. What makes Barcelona ‘stand out’ from other cities across the world, is its situation, right next to the sea.

The ‘Mitja Marato Barcelona’ takes advantage of the city’s unique position and takes runners around the whole of the city, past its most stunning and legendary monuments, landmarks and buildings, down the seafront and past the many stylish, authentic and top quality bars and restaurants Barcelona’s seafront is home to, safe with the knowledge that your post-half marathon drink and tapas looking out towards the Mediterranean will be more than well deserved!

If you are a serious half-marathon runner then you will be interested to learn that the ‘Mitja Marato Barcelona’ offers some great prizes to winners.

The first male and first female of this year’s race will receive 1,000 euros plus a trophy, the second male and second female will receive 600,00 euros and a trophy and the third male and third female will be given 400,00 euros in prize money plus a trophy – Happy training!

You can register for the Barcelona Half Marathon 2012 on the event’s official website at: bcn.cat/mitjamarato.

Vintage Travel is pleased to announce the arrival of the Cote d’Azur on its books and is eager to inform our readers about two truly sensational properties that do this stunning region of southern France the justice it deserves. These two new luxury Cote d’Azur villas fit well into the Vintage Travel portfolio.

One such property is ‘Mediterranee’, a four bedroom, 3 bathroom villa that overlooks a panoramic of lush hillsides, the Mediterranean Ocean and the bay of Cannes – Does accommodation come more exclusive than this?

Mediterranee’s elegant décor blends the contemporary with the traditional and the results are simply divine. Period furniture, colourful paintings and terracotta tiles create an air of traditionalism that tastefully contrasts to the airy, light and sophisticated atmosphere that runs throughout the whole of this exquisite new luxury Cote d’Azur villa.

The villa’s sensational décor is representative of its close proximity to Grasse, a stunning French Riviera town that is world-renowned for producing and selling luxury products such as glassware, candles, frames and baskets, an item for every room in the house.

Mediterranee’s emphasis on outdoor living is also representative  of the region, with the villa’s large front terrace, balconies of the first floor, extensive gardens brimming with fertility and colour and of course the property’s own private pool, providing the necessary views to soak up, not only the warm south of France sun, but the jaw-dropping views.

Being just 15 minutes from Cannes, Mediterranee excels the area’s reputation for glamour, beauty and opulence.

For prices, availability, photos and to make a booking at Mediterranee, which can accommodate up to eight guests visit vintagetravel.co.uk.

Equally as impressive is L’Heure Bleue (pictured), a 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom villa situated a stone’s throw from the cobblestoned hillside town of Saint Paul de Vence.

This stylish villa is set within extensive grounds of landscaped lawns that include a striking pool, several outdoor terraces, offering both sunny and shady al-fresco dining, complemented vastly by the many sweet-smelling exotic plant life strategically scattered amongst this idyllic orchard oasis.

L’Heure Bleue’s interior is as desirable as its exterior. Stylish, comfortable and tasteful are three adjectives that immediately spring to mind when you walk into this exclusive villa. Again combining a contemporary twist with many original features, guests cannot fail to be enthralled by this exceedingly stylish villa.

If you can manage to drag yourself away from this magnificent property then a trip to nearby Nice is recommended!

For more information on L’Heure Bleue visit: vintagetravel.co.uk.

While Croatia may not have the reached the skiing capital of Europe status the likes of Switzerland and Austria have, this stunningly beautiful and mountainous country is rapidly becoming a popular ski destination for some serious fun on the slopes, after all Olympic gold medallist Croatian skier Janica Kostelic had to practise somewhere didn’t she?

We check out three of the top skiing resorts in Croatia, which could be an affordable alternative to many other European ski destinations.

Mount Sljeme

While the slopes may not be as high as those in the Alps, being positioned in a nature reserve on the outskirts of Zagreb, skiing on Mount Sljeme, provides an incredible vista whilst speeding down the piste. This unspoilt ski resort offers slopes for skiers of varying abilities and although the facilities here are somewhat modest – two ski lifts and four ski runs – if is peace, tranquil, value for money and surrounded by awe-inspiring views sounds like an appealing alternative to the hustle and bustle and extortionate prices many of the more well-known ski destinations are notorious for, you won’t be disappointed with Mount Sljeme.

Bjelolasica

Being the Croatian Olympic Centre, Bjelolasica is Croatia’s largest ski resort. With comprehensive facilities, including snowboarding, cross-country skiing and ski lessons, Bjelolasica caters for every level of snow sports enthusiast. Located close to the city of Karlovac in central Croatia, access to Bjelolasica is good by car, train or bus.

Prices for accommodation, facilities and other services here are reasonable, whereas the scenery at Bjelolasica can only be described as being outstanding.

Platak

26 kilometres to the north east of Rijeka the ski resort of Platak can be found. With seven ski runs and 10 kilometres of cross-country trails, Platak is a ski and snowboarders’ paradise, especially when you reach the highest point and stop to pause and take in the incredible views.

Given its popularity, the facilities and equipment at Platak have recently been modernised.

Maybe you would prefer Croatia a little warmer?! You should have a look at Vintage Travel’s wonderful selection of luxury holiday villas in Istria.