France
It has to be the Cote d’Azur, for my activity break of choice – idealy centred on Nice. And with budget flights accessible from most UK centres, it could hardly be simpler. Once you’ve settled into your accommodation and unpacked all your gear, you’re set – and winter is definitely the best time to go! After an early breakfast, drive north to Valberg, Isola or Auron for a morning on the ski slopes, followed by a lunch, before returning to the shores of the Mediterranean. Then you have the choice of cycle routes – leisurely along the corniche, or challenging and into the Alpes Maritime (Gourdon or Sospel, perhaps). And in the evening, what could be better than SCUBA diving with your buddies at Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.
www.cyclecotedazur.com
Google map: bit.ly/yHVEj2
My HUGE tip - stay in Nice Old Town soak up the sunshine and then hop on a train to go and whizz down the pistes in the alps! It's way closer than you think, and great value - a skiing holiday on the med? Yes!
Le Train des Pignes is a classic rail journey through increasingly spectacular scenery from the heart of Nice on the narrow gauge line to Digne les Bains (just over three hours) - or stop at one of the remote and beautiful villages en route.
Either side of the train offers great views.
There are also links to the ski resort of Plan-du-Var.
Gare de Nice CP, rue Alfred Binet
(near the SNCF rail station)
www.trainprovence.com
Search Been there