Eurostar passengers face delays and cancellations due to French rail issue
Some services between Brussels and Paris and between Amsterdam and Paris have also been cancelled, delayed or faced other disruptions due to the rail closure, which happened on the high-speed line between Moussy and Longueil in the Hauts-de-France region.SNCF, which operates the line, said on its website that the "severely disrupted" services were due to a power supply issue which required "major repairs".It predicted delays of between one and five hours on the Eurostar, as well as its other services TGV inOui and Ouigo. Trains between London-Amsterdam, Brussels-Amsterdam, Brussels-London and Brussels-Cologne have not been impacted. August is a peak period for cross-Channel travel due to school holidays, meaning services are often busier than normal. Monday's disruptions come nearly a month after a Eurostar train travelling between Brussels and London had to be evacuated in northern France due to a power failure. And in June, there were two days of major disruptions after separate fatal incidents on France's LGV Nord line, which was followed by cable theft.
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The Guardian
an hour ago
- The Guardian
We're on safari … in the Netherlands
There is a moment on our first evening at the Beekse Bergen safari resort that stops us all dead in our tracks. The kids are wearing the khaki safari hats from the welcome packs left on their wooden bunk beds, and we are relaxing on the veranda of our hotel room, with panoramic views of the 'savannah'. From this elevated position, we're studying our neighbours on this 10-day holiday in the south of the Netherlands: Nubian giraffes, white rhinos, antelope, zebras and ostriches, all intermingling on the plain, metres in front of us. The light is fading and a heatwave is enhancing the African theme of Beekse Bergen. In the humidity, our impromptu animal quiz, aided by our in-room brochure, is halted by a low, menacing rumble. It takes a moment for context to overtake common sense. The thunder we think we're hearing is actually the roar from the pack of lions that live just behind our accommodation. We all fall silent, absorbing one of the primal sounds of nature. It may seem like an unusual place for a safari – close to the modest city of Tilburg and 20 miles west of industrial Eindhoven – but this is a safari holiday Netherlands-style, where you don't have to fly to Africa to get close to our planet's most impressive mammals. The 120-hectare resort is a group of interconnected sites, comprising a hotel, lodges, chalets and cottages overlooking several open plains full of wildlife; the safari park, which guests can explore on foot through a connecting gate from the resort; a lakeside resort with a beach, more lodges and a campsite for all budgets; and the Speelland theme park – with indoor and outdoor rides, slides and games. The resort has strong conservation credentials, with many species that are designated 'vulnerable' or 'extinct in the wild' protected here as part of a Europe-wide network of more than 300 zoos, aquariums and parks, including Chester Zoo in the UK. The rangers tell us that all the animals living in Beekse Bergen were born here or moved to the park from another zoo; none were taken from the wild. The Dutch have a particular, tailored approach to family holidays, designing thoughtfully for children but without compromising on aesthetic and luxurious touches for adults, and Beekse Bergen is no exception – it's a hit with our seven-and 11-year-olds, and us parents, too. Custom-made bunk beds in one room, a picture window with views of the animals while soaking in the bath in another: attention to detail and lots to keep the kids entertained. For anyone staying, there is free unlimited access to the enormous safari park by car, bus or – our favourite – walking trails. Unlike a single costly trip to a regular zoo, we can make repeat visits to enjoy as many of the 100-plus animal species as we can, and at our own pace. Highlights include a magnificent Amur (Siberian) tiger, freestyling ring-tailed lemurs shrieking close above our heads, blustering rhinos locking horns over food, and the quiet grace of the African elephant families. Small 'ferry' boats with guided tours (in Dutch) take passengers from zone to zone, via lakes where we get a rare sighting of two iridescent kingfishers – a personal highlight among the more spectacular beasts. By the end of our stay, a battered map covered in ballpoint pen ticks is hard evidence of two children brimming with memories. We love the birds of prey display, with vultures, eagles, owls and storks swooping low over our heads, catching food thrown for them in mid-air. There are scheduled lion-feeding sessions and we stumble across the seals' mealtime, laughing as the three blubbery mammals wriggle comically out of the lake and on to the sand. For an extra €17.50 (£15) per person, there is also the option of a 45-minute 'game drive' with a guide – ours is the excellent Eva – to get up close and personal, away from the main car trails. We meet alpha male giraffe Jim and his harem, and as the herd licks the roof of our cruiser with their giant tongues, our amazed seven-year-old clicks her camera over and over again. Sign up to Inside Saturday The only way to get a look behind the scenes of the Saturday magazine. Sign up to get the inside story from our top writers as well as all the must-read articles and columns, delivered to your inbox every weekend. after newsletter promotion It's easy to spend a week or more here, exploring every corner of the complex, ticking off animals in the safari park, swimming in the indoor pool and riding bikes (available to hire on site) to the playgrounds. Evenings are for indoor bowling, eating at one of multiple restaurants or relaxing back in the lodge. We visit the Speelland theme park a couple of times – a brilliantly wholesome outdoor and indoor activity centre with fairground-style rides, pedalos in the lake, go-karts and bouncy castles. We pop into nearby Tilburg (15 minutes by car; 25 minutes on a bike) for takeaway pizza, grocery shopping and a day perusing the shops and markets, visiting a traditional Dutch pancake house for lunch. There's also time for a day trip to Amsterdam (less than 90 minutes by train from Tilburg), where we wander over the canal bridges, meander along beautiful streets with vintage antique stores and hop on and off the tram. Our youngest decides she wants to move to the pretty Dutch capital so she can ride her bike to work every day. Back at the park, we split our stay between the hotel and the resort. Our first few days are in one of the hotel's Savanne rooms, geared to guests who want to eat at the resort's many à la carte, buffet or fine dining restaurants. We then move to a Savanne lodge at the 'top' of the safari resort, with a view of the bigger 'Masai Mara plain'. The detached lodges are more spacious with full kitchens, ideal for self-catering families. Some even have saunas. While there is a small grocery shop on site, nearby Tilburg has plenty of supermarkets to stock up at. Our tip would be to budget for the significant additional cost of breakfast, lunch and dinner if you stay at the hotel. While the veranda view of the plain from our first hotel room is spectacular, the additional cost of eating out makes the self-catering lodge much more affordable. Is there a specific age where our fascination with animals dims, before being reignited as a parent? I would say for any child pre-secondary school – before the self-conscious cynicism and underwhelmed eye-rolls kick in – Beekse Bergen is a remarkable family holiday, especially for those interested in the natural world. 'A safari in the Netherlands?' your friends will ask, intrigued and maybe a little sceptical: 'How does that work?' As ever, with Dutch family vacations, it just trip was provided by Little Clogs Holidays and Beekse Bergen safari resort. A seven-night lodge stay for two adults and two children starts at €1,731 (£1,500), including tourist taxes
Telegraph
14 hours ago
- Telegraph
The 10 best beaches in the Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol's almost 100 miles (160km) of coastline gives plenty of scope for beaches, and there are over 100, ranging from barely accessible coves to long stretches of sand. Don't expect golden or white sands – you need to head west to the Costa de la Luz for those, but do expect clean and safe beaches with reliable weather almost all year. Most also have facilities such as showers, toilets, restaurants and cafés, plus lifeguards and accessible bathing points (available in summer only). The Mediterranean here is mostly friendly, but be aware of shelving beaches in some areas and occasional rip currents. All our recommendations below have been hand-selected and tested by our resident destination expert to help you discover the best beaches in the Costa del Sol. Find out more below, or for more Costa del Sol inspiration, see our guides to the hotels, restaurants, bars and nightclubs and things to do. Los Boliches Blue-flag status, shallow bathing and playparks make this mile and so (2 km) stretch a hit with families. This sea is home to a surprising variety of sea life, so pack goggles and a snorkel. Too windy or chilly? Admire the beach from the promenade as you stroll, run or cycle. Insider tip: Visit on 16th July for the Virgen del Carmen celebrations, featuring a marine procession and fireworks. Area: Fuengirola How to get there: By train on the Malaga-Fuengirola line. Burriana One of Nerja's larger beaches, these fine shingle sands have blue-flag status and boast stunning views of the coast. A favourite with families – but watch out for the shelving beach; there's room to lay our towel, even in high summer. Watersports galore for all energy levels and wallet sizes. Insider tip: Even if you don't fancy rice for lunch, peek into Restaurante Ayo to see possibly the world's largest paella pans bubbling on the stove. Area: Nerja How to get there: Park for free on the seafront or, if busy, on one of the adjoining streets. Cala el Cañuelo In a coastal nature reserve, this small cove is only accessible on foot or via a shuttle minibus that runs daily from June to mid-September; £1.90 (€2.25) return (cash only). The pebbled beach makes for clear waters and excellent snorkelling. The restaurant opens during the summer only. Insider tip: it's a steep 20-minute walk down (longer up), so wear sturdy shoes. Area: Nerja How to get there: Park in Playa del Cañuelo car park off the N340 and follow the Sendero Bajada del Cañuelo. La Carihuela A classic since the 1960s, these blue-flag sands offer the quintessential Spanish day out at the seaside. Think sun beds and parasols, pedalos and water sports, fried fish at the beachfront restaurants and ice cream from the kiosks. Insider tip: if you haven't got your own shade and don't want to rent a parasol, set up camp in one of the palm tree oases. Area: Torremolinos How to get there: Get off at Montemar on the Malaga-Fuengirola train. Casablanca Quieter than other central beaches in Marbella, these blue-flag sands flank the swanky mansions and luxury hotels on the Golden Mile. Keep things real by taking a picnic and your own shade; enjoy mountain and Morocco views by walking the Marbella Club pier or, if closed, the nearby breakwater, for free. Insider tip: Include this beach on a seafront walk from Marbella to Puerto Banús (4.3 miles or 7km). Area: Marbella How to get there: Free parking on nearby streets. La Caleta Not as well-known as La Malagueta next door, but quieter and with better views of Malaga Bay, this blue-flag beach is perfect for a time out from sightseeing. Children will love the inflatable water park in the summer, and bathing is shallow year-round. Insider tip: start your day with a Malaga-style breakfast (coffee and bread with olive oil and tomato) on the sand at Chiringuito Nuevo Mediterráneo. Area: Malaga How to get there: Walk from the city centre. Peñón del Cuervo At the eastern end of Malaga, this secluded cove is dominated by a rocky outcrop (squint to almost see the likeness to the crow it's named for). Snorkelling is good around the rock, and it's a top spot for a winter sunrise. Insider tip: Hire a bike and venture further east along the cycle lanes to the resort of La Cala del Moral. Playa de la Rada These long blue-flag sands offer safe bathing, a long list of facilities and good restaurants serving some of the best fried fish and sardine skewers in town. In addition, their proximity to the town centre makes them an ideal pitstop before or after you explore central Estepona. Insider tip: Discover all the beaches in Estepona by walking along the Sendero Litoral coastal path. Area: Estepona How to get there: There's free parking nearby or visitors can walk from the town centre. Playa Real de Zaragoza/ Playa de Costa Bella Easily the best sands on the Costa del Sol, these stretch for over 8 miles (13km) from the dunes in Cabo Pino almost to Marbella itself. There are reasonable facilities and safe bathing, plus perhaps the most eclectic collection of beach restaurants anywhere, from the cheap and cheerful Restaurante Las Flores to the uber-chic Nikki Beach. Insider tip: Enjoy Cuban food and salsa Sundays at the Ranchón Cubano, mid-May to mid-September. Puerto Banús These blue-flag sands on either side of the marina suit everyone: families love the safe, shallow bathing, while beach bunnies hop to the west end to Ocean Club, with its younger vibe and famous themed parties, and La Sala by the Sea, with a more mature and sophisticated appeal. Insider tip: Dress codes apply at most beach clubs; some have a minimum spend. Area: Marbella How to get there: Park in nearby car parks or bus from central Marbella. How we choose Every beach in this curated list has been expertly chosen by our destination expert, to provide you with their insider perspective. We cover a range of areas and styles, from popular city beaches to lesser-known corners, to best suit every type of traveller. We update this list regularly to keep up with the latest openings and provide up-to-date recommendations. About our expert Joanna Styles I have been championing the Costa del Sol since 1990. When I'm not waxing lyrical about my forever home, you'll find me running on the Malaga promenade or catching up on new art in the city.
Telegraph
14 hours ago
- Telegraph
The 20 best things to do in the Costa del Sol
As one of Europe's top tourist destinations, the Costa del Sol positively brims with things to do and see. From bucket-and-spade days to world-class art, via ancient ruins, adrenaline-fuelled adventures and local pageantry, the long coastline and its stunning inland scenery offer something for everyone. And usually at wallet-surprising prices. Whether you're looking to please your crowd, entertain the kids, discover Andalusian culture, learn a new skill or simply enjoy nature at its wildest, the Costa del Sol is your holiday destination. All our recommendations below have been hand-selected and tested by our resident destination expert to help you discover the best things to do in the Costa del Sol. Find out more below, or for more Costa del Sol inspiration, see our guides to the hotels, restaurants, bars and nightclubs and beaches. Find things to do by type: Best for families Best free things to do Best local flavour Best historical activities Best outdoor activities Best for families Dolphin spotting Sail alongside the pods The Costa del Sol has several resident dolphin families who frolic through the waves between Nerja and Estepona. The pods seem to love an audience and put on impressive displays of flips and turns, often next to the boat. Sightings are more likely on trips out of Marbella and Puerto Banús, but visitors on catamarans from Benalmádena and Malaga can also get lucky. Insider's tip: Take the water taxi between Marbella and Puerto Banús to see the magnificent mountain backdrop behind the resort and catch the local dolphins – the boat crew take a slight detour if the pod is in town. Bioparc Fuengirola Take a worldwide tour with the fauna Go wild on a globe-trotting adventure with more than 200 species of exotic animals and birds at one of Spain's trailblazing conservation zoos. Five immersive zones transport you across continents, where animals live in near-natural habitats. Watch cheeky lemurs dart through the 'Island of Madagascar', shimmering tetras and scalars glide through the 'Amazon', and powerful Komodo dragons and iguanas prowl ancient ruins in the 'Khosmal Temple'. Insider's tip: Check out the daily calendar for activities like guided tours and conversations with the zookeepers. If you're visiting in July and August, buy an evening ticket to see the nocturnal animals in action. Nerja Caves Discover a world of underground marvels The Cuevas de Nerja are the Costa del Sol's crown jewel – vast, magical caves filled with waterfalls, towering stalactites (including the world's longest) and ancient rock formations. Discovered in 1959, the caves also house numerous well-preserved prehistoric paintings, some of which are more than 20,000 years old, as well as remarkable archaeological remains. A subterranean wonderland for the whole family. Insider's tip: If you're visiting in July, check out the Festival de Nerja programme. The concerts and dance performances feature top artists and take place inside the caves whose acoustics rival the world's best auditoriums. Selwo Aventura See the big five Well, you can almost see all of the big five – since this giant park has cheetahs instead of leopards – but otherwise you'll visit iconic safari mammals and colourful tropical birds in almost their natural habitats. After walking through tropical rainforests and riding a jeep across an African savannah, take in the daily bird shows and snap a selfie with a lemur or snake. Tired of the wildlife? Whizz across the 380-foot (116m) zipline. Insider's tip: For the ultimate safari experience, stay overnight in a Masai hut or Zulu villa (all with air-conditioning, showers and great views) and wake up to the sounds of Africa. Best free things to do Baños de la Hedionda Do as Julius Caesar did Tucked at the far west end of the coast lie these steamy, sulphur-rich baths, where the most famous Roman Emperor is said to have soaked away a stubborn skin complaint. He built the original complex, later revamped by the Moors. Today, you can relax under the striking domed roof (online booking only mid-June to mid-Sept) or unwind in the outdoor pools. Insider's tip: These baths are popular, so avoid weekends at any time of year; expect the water to be flesh-bitingly chilly between October and May; and maybe pack a clothes peg for your nose. Website: Estepona Murals Marvell at street art The streets in Estepona's old quarter double as an open-air gallery, with more than 60 vibrant murals by local and international artists. Many nod to the town's fishing roots or cleverly blend features in the facades into eye-popping trompe-l'oeil. Grab a map from the tourist office or online and start exploring – don't miss Fishing Day, Spain's largest mural, sprawling across six facades. Insider's tip: As you make your way around the murals, look out for the sculptures and inscriptions of poetry scattered around the town centre. Don't miss The Tourist on the seafront and The Happiest Elephant in Plaza de las Flores. Genalguacil Visit the village that's an open-air art museum This pretty white village is roughly 25 miles (40km) from Estepona, and despite only having just 400 inhabitants, has over 200 installations on show, the legacies of the artists who have participated in the biannual Encuentros de Arte since 1994. Must-see highlights include the Arco del Viento metal chairs arching over an alleyway, 10 ceramic footballs 'lost' around the village and the Pink Panther bandolero, a perfect selfie partner. Insider's tip: Encuentros de Arte take place in August in even-numbered years, but if your visit takes place during an odd-numbered year, check out the Arte Vivo festival when resident guest artists do their thing. Ralli Museum Get surrealist on the Golden Mile When art collector Harry Recanati chose Marbella's Golden Mile for one of his five Ralli Museums, he gifted the resort with a vibrant trove of Latin American and European Surrealist masterpieces. Expect bold works from Wilfredo Lam, Roberto Matta, Bacon, Chagall, and Dalí. With its striking permanent collections and rotating exhibitions, it takes you on a deep and thrilling dive into the world of surrealism. Insider's tip: Include a side step to the museum when you stroll along the Golden Mile promenade, but note that it's open Tuesday to Saturday only, and, unlike most museums in Spain, it closes early (4 or 5pm). Return to index Best local flavour Feria time Celebrate in Andalusian style The Costa del Sol loves to party, with annual ferias (fairs) in even the smallest village, celebrating the patron saint's day and lasting at least three days. Everyone's invited to the festivities, which kick off with colourful romerías (a pilgrimage) and continue with fireworks, dancing, singing and fairground rides. Flamenco frills are a must for the ladies, as are horse and carriage parades. Insider's tip: Ferias are a one-off experience that takes over a resort completely for almost 24 hours every day. If big, noisy crowds aren't your thing, make sure your visit doesn't coincide with the local jamboree. Holy Week in Malaga Experience hard-core devotion Easter in Malaga is a profoundly moving spectacle of faith and tradition. For a whole week, 45 grand processions fill the streets with towering floats of Christ and the Virgin, solemn marching bands, and hooded penitents. Locals gather in their thousands, some moved to sing flamenco laments. Even if you're a non-believer, this soul-stirring celebration never fails to give you goose bumps. Insider's tip: Malaga's most famous local, actor Antonio Banderas, is a long-time devotee of the Lágrimas y Favores de Fusionadas brotherhood and takes part in their procession in the afternoon during Palm Sunday, when he joins the float-bearers. Malaga Bodegas Taste the local vino The Romans planted the first vines on the Costa del Sol, now home to the D.O. Málaga and D.O. Sierras de Málaga labels. Five regions produce everything from bold reds to sweet muscatels, along with excellent fizz. For standout tastings, head to Bodegas Bentomiz or Sedella Vinos in the Axarquía or spend a day sipping among the vines in Ronda's scenic bodegas. Insider's tip: Know before you go by getting the low-down on local wine. If you're in Malaga, head for the Museo del Vino (tasting included) or visit the Wine Centre in Ronda. Paella Class Create your own lunch Roll up your sleeves and cook like a local with chef Laura at her Lebasi Taller de Cocina in central Malaga. In this hands-on, three-hour session, you'll master two regional dishes plus authentic paella (that's correct, no chorizo). Discover expert tips, including how to achieve a perfectly crispy socarrat base. The best part? You'll enjoy your delicious creations over a leisurely lunch. Insider's tip: Before your class, visit the Mercado de Atarazanas fresh food market nearby and feast your senses on the stalls literally groaning with gourmet produce, much of it grown, produced or caught locally. Return to index Best historical activities Dolmens of Antequera Step back in time Dig deep into the Costa del Sol's roots at these dolmens (tombs) outside Antequera. The World Heritage site dates back to 2,500BC and the megalithic burial chambers rank among the most important in Spain. Begin at the visitors' centre for a general overview, and then admire the Cueva de Menga, the largest, with a picture-perfect view from its entrance; the smaller Cueva de Viera; and El Romeral, featuring unusual domed ceilings. Insider's tip: Time your visit to coincide with a spring or autumn equinox, or a summer or winter solstice, when there are special events at the Cueva de Viera. La Concepción Botanical Gardens Explore a horticultural paradise In 1855, two of Malaga's rising bourgeois class took a leaf from the Victorian collecting playbook and created one of Spain's largest botanical gardens. The lush grounds house more than 50,000 trees and plants; don't miss more than 80 types of palms, the water features, the black bamboo forest, the wisteria pergola (best mid to late March) or the Modernist mirador. Insider's tip: Excellent guided tours in English (minimum three people) are available year-round – book by phone, WhatsApp or email. If you're here at Christmas, book an evening visit to the stunning festive lights throughout the gardens. Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Malaga Step into the world of Al-Andalus The 10th-century Alcazaba in Malaga's city centre was initially imagined as a fortress, but quickly became a palace and symbol of the Almohad dynasty's power. Walk the battlements, admire the horseshoe arches and marvel at the intricate engravings in the palace chambers. Then, climb the steep slope to the separate Gibralfaro and walk the entire walled perimeter for simply stunning 360-degree views. Insider's tip: Reward all those steps with a little something on the terrace of the Parador de Gibralfaro, with panoramic views of Malaga and the Mediterranean beyond. Need something more substantial? Pop upstairs to the restaurant for delicious food and even better views. Río Verde Roman Villa The Costa del Sol's first luxury villa Travel back in time to probably the first luxury villa ever built on the Costa del Sol, on the east side of Puerto Banús. Dating back to the second century AD, the ruins' stars of the show are the black and white mosaics whose motifs include kitchen utensils, a stunning head of Medusa, dolphins, birds and even a pair of flipflops. Insider's tip: Time your visit for a weekend morning as the site opens Friday to Sunday, 10:30am to 1:30pm only. Combine it with a seafront stroll from Marbella (almost five miles or 7km) or a ferry ride to see the dolphins. Return to index Best outdoor activities El Caminito del Rey Embark on a daring gorge walk Malaga is one of the highest provinces in Spain, and one of the best ways to experience its peaks is along this almost five-mile (7.7km) gorge walk. Make your way through stunning scenery, including turquoise lakes and limestone crags, along the wooden pathway, complete with glass-floored viewing points and a suspension bridge. Hard hats (provided) and photographic ID are compulsory, and a zero fear of heights is preferable. Insider's tip: Regular tickets sell out quickly, so book well ahead. If these aren't available, consider joining the excellent guided tour in English, which is just as enjoyable, more informative and only a few euros more. Parque Natural de la Desembocadura del Guadalhorce Enter a twitcher's paradise Sandwiched between Malaga Airport and a motorway is this surprisingly quiet nature reserve, once gravel pits and now one of the best places for birdwatching on the Costa del Sol. The saltwater lagoons house numerous species, including the more unusual osprey, booted eagles, flamingos and white-headed ducks, as well as herons and cormorants. Go early and you might just spot hares and mongoose-like ichneumons. Insider's tip: No binoculars? Ask one of the friendly local twitchers in a hide to let you have a go with theirs. Helpful information panels in English allow you to identify the birds. Kayak Tour Paddle below the cliffs Much of the stunning Nerja coastline is only accessible by sea, which is why a kayak comes in handy. Hire your own craft or join a tour from Burriana beach and paddle eastwards into the coastal nature reserve. Skim around waterfalls, tumbling from the clifftop usually all year, venture into a sea cave and then take a dive to discover the busy marine life. Insider's tip: Kayaks are available daily for hire, and tours operate between April and November, unless there are rough seas or bad weather. Book ahead in July and August. Over-sevens only. El Torcal See weird and wonderful rock formations This massive limestone plateau dates back to the Jurassic period and brims with breathtaking views and quirky rock formations. Three well-signposted walking routes guide you around the plateau (the shop in the visitors' centre sells a good map), ranging from less than a mile (1.5km) to almost five miles (7.2km) and taking up to three hours. Insider's tip: If your visit is in the summer months, check out the nighttime activities, which include a guided tour at full moon. Wear sturdy shoes with a good grip and stay on the designated paths – it's easy to get lost. Return to index How we choose Every activity or experience to do in this curated list has been expertly chosen by our destination expert, to provide you with their insider perspective. We cover a range of areas and styles, from popular city beaches to lesser-known corners, to best suit every type of traveller. We update this list regularly to keep up with the latest openings and provide up-to-date recommendations. About our expert Joanna Styles I have been championing the Costa del Sol since 1990. When I'm not waxing lyrical about my forever home, you'll find me running on the Malaga promenade or catching up on new art in the city.
