The roughly 15 km (9 mile) stretch of Atlantic Coastline at Lacanau is considered by many to contain some of the best surfing in Europe. All this depends on the season, of course, but its reputation alone means that, during the summer months, you'll probably be dealing with a lot of tourists at particularly popular stretches of the beach. This can be good if you enjoy Lacanau nightlife, but not so good if you prefer isolation on the water.
The North and Central beaches tend to get the most traffic on a consistent basis (as they're most accessible), however you can usually find less congested waters by either huffing it south on foot or north to "Alexandre Beach" on a bike. Water temps top out right around 21 C (70 F) in the summer, so a shorty's probably all you'll need to stay warm. Beginners are cautioned that swells and tides can get pretty intense depending on where you decide to surf, so definitely scope out a spot that's right for your skill level. Pack your gear and drive in for the day, or choose a campsite for a weekend of top-notch French wave riding.
Noted for its abundant and untamed natural beauty, the Camargue Regional Nature Park is an 820km2 (350,000 acre) haven for flamingos, bulls, white Camargue horses and a variety of other unique species of wildlife. Formed along the Rhone River delta, this landscape of wetlands, grasslands, pastures and salt flats makes for an incredibly one of a kind sensory experience, complete with a variety of methods available for visitors to go about the business of exploring.
Take a boat up river, ride 4x4s along the sand dunes, or pack a lunch and head out on foot or bike along any number of winding pathways. Don't forget to print up a map online, or pick one up in nearby Arles, in order to navigate your way through the trails and towns, and pack plenty of insect repellent as the mosquitoes around Camargue can get pretty prolific.
Situated pretty much directly below the highest peak in Iceland, Hnappavellir has become a summertime mecca of sorts for rock climbers either living in or visiting the country. It's the perfect mix of stunning views (Vatnajökull), encouraging peers, friendly local farmers and, of course, excellent-quality basalt. We're talking both cliffs and boulders here, so even if you feel like ditching the ropes for a crash pad you'll have plenty of options. Just how many, you ask? Well, there are well over 125 bolted runs along the cliff face for sport climbing alone, ranging in difficulty from 5.10 through all levels of 5.13. Toss in a healthy serving of bouldering routes and you can understand why tents are almost constantly set up here for the duration of Iceland's brief summer season.
Speaking of tents and friendly farmers, it's good to keep in mind that the climbing and camping at Hnappavellir is made possible solely because of the generosity of the locals on whose land this popular slab of rock is found. Make sure, if you're planning on hanging out for a while, that you respect both the land and the people living on it. Also, there's no running water here, so leave all notions of showers and flushing toilets back in Reykjavik. Then just bring your gear and a little ambition and enjoy the challenge of Iceland's biggest and most popular climbing destination.
The Emirates Stadium tour is a joy to behold for any Arsenal fan – young or old. Experience the fantastic history of one of the world’s biggest clubs and marvel at an impressive example of a modern football stadium. Arsenal – famed the world over for their attractive, stylish football - took up residence in this stadium in 2006 after previously being based at Highbury.
First stop is the plus director’s box. On your way you’ll pass through the executive lounge, before reaching the coveted area where the rich and famous enjoy the football show on offer. You’ll get a sneak preview into the experience the most expensive seats in the stadium commands (a three course meal cooked by Raymond Leblanc, complementary drinks and an enviable position overlooking the game from the halfway line).
Next stop is the home team changing rooms. Prepare yourself for state-of-the-art, ultra modern facilities including hydrotherapy pools and mosaic-tiled showers, where legends like Thierry Henry and Fabregas have prepared themselves for some huge games over the years. If you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of the last games’ tactic sheets!
Next it’s time for the famous walk from changing room to pitch side. Take in the aura and anticipation that the top players experience before they emerge to the screaming and chanting of the loyal Arsenal following. You’ll also get the chance to take in the managers’ perspectives as you become position yourself in the dugout for that all important photo.
Back into the stadium and you’ll move onto the press room, where groundbreaking interviews have taken place over the years. You’ll be invited to pitch your questions to your tour guide to experience the press room and take on the role of footy-journalist!
Before you leave, the last stop is the Arsenal Museum. Marvel over the trophies and awards Arsenal have acquired over the years including the trophy won in the famoust 03/04 unbeatable season, all in an impressive, state-of-the-art backdrop.
The Emirates stadium tour is a superb opportunity to learn the ins and outs of your favourite football club, as well as having the chance to be a professional for the day! The tour is a perfect day out for every Arsenal fan.
The PCC and Wardens have met the Archdeacon and the Area Dean. The outcome of these meetings is that Emmanuel Church and St John's Church (part of the North Meols team) will share the new incumbent. Details of how this will work in practice are still to be finalised. The parish profiles for Emmanuel Church and for St John's have now been produced and merged into one document which has been sent to the Diocese.
If you have any questions please feel free to speak to the wardens, secretary or a PCC member who will be happy to help with any queries you may have.
In the meantime, the Church is carrying on with its usual range of services & events, the wardens are taking bookings for weddings & baptisms so it’s very much ‘Church’ as usual.