Enjoy an active cottage break in Lancashire

Thursday, 16 February 2012 11:33 AM

For a getaway that puts you in the ideal position to try a wealth of fantastic activities, you may be inclined to book holiday cottages in Lancashire. In doing so, you will not only be able to take part in a wide range of wonderful pursuits, but also stay in high-quality accommodation.

While Lancashire is the perfect destination for all fans of the great outdoors, this is particularly the case for those who enjoy cycling.

Visit Gisburn Forest - the largest wooded area in the county - and you'll be able to explore a 16 km network of well-maintained trails while taking in fantastic scenery. Routes suitable for all ability levels can be found here, so experienced and less athletic riders alike should find something suitable for them.

If you're really keen to push your skills to the limit, head to the Lee Quarry in Bacup. Here, you will be able to cycle along some 8 km of demanding red and black-grade runs, suitable only for riders with a high level of skill and stamina.

Keen walkers will find plenty of destinations to take part in their favourite activity, among them is the Forest of Bowland.

A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, routes of varying lengths and difficulty can be followed here. No matter which you select though, you can be sure of seeing some wonderful flora and fauna.

Keep an eye on the sky for a glimpse of the diverse array of birds that call the park home, which include ring ouzels, yellowhammers and hen harriers.

Alternatively, why not visit the Bowland Wild Boar Park in Chipping? Not only will you be able to see cute wild boars running around, but you can also view wallabies, red squirrels and llamas - among other creatures.

Lancashire is also a great place for fishing. Visit the Bank House Fly Fishery in Low Mill Caton and you'll be able to capture several varieties of trout, including tiger and rainbow.

At Carcus Lake in Tottington, you can catch tench, perch and carp - among other species - as well as try night fishing.

Other pursuits you can participate in include kitesurfing and archery, so there will always be something new for you to try.

Whatever activity - or activities - you decide to take part in, you may want to consider seeking out dog-friendly holiday cottages in Lancashire. That way, your furry friend doesn't have to miss out on all the outdoor fun you get to experience.

With so much to do, you may yourself going on cottage breaks in the county for many years to come!

Head to Antarctica for a great active break

As the only continent on the planet that is not permanently inhabited by man and is left in its completely natural state, Antarctica is the ideal place to take active holidays with a difference. Not only will you have the chance to participate in some fantastic activities, but you'll also get to take in a diverse array of wildlife.