Incredibly beautiful, quiet and calm lakes locted in the middle of the Julian Alps. Lake Bled incorporates little beaches for wild swimming, as well as designated areas for swimming plus boating, fishing and cafes. In the middle stands an island with the idyllic church of St Mary which you can reach by boat. Lake Bohinj is quieter and there are many places to access the lake and swim.

Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, Slovenia
www.bled.si

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If you want a place to stay in the middle of the countryside and to feel good about your carbon footprint, then try the Straw Cabin at Howden, East Yorkshire. It really is made of straw and comes complete with wind turbine, solar panels, composting facilities, bikes to use and even a compost loo (totally non-smelly though). You can be met at the station by the lovely owner who will also buy your shopping before your visit from local suppliers. The sheets and towels are organic cotton and there is a small honesty shop supplying fairtrade and organic food within the cottage. It's a great relaxing place.

Straw Bale Cabin, Village Farm, Brind,Howden, Goole, East Yorkshire, DN14 7LA
www.homegrownhome.co.uk
Nearest station is Howden

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Karekare is a black sand beach on the west coast of the North Island (about 40 minutes out of Auckland) - The Piano was filmed here.

The beach is wild and rugged, and you walk from the car park across sand dunes and an estuary to get to the seafront. If you're not a strong swimmer you're best to stay within your depth, but the water is lovely and it's a great place for beach cricket.

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