TRAVEL NOTES
Gecko Beach Club reopens
After a six-month renovation, this boutique hotel on the island of Formentera (the sophisticated person’s Mallorca), has reopened. It’s the epitome of understated luxury, with clean lines and expanses of pale wood. Its proximity to the turquoise waters of Migjorn Beach in the Hamptons-esque area of Ca-Mari, its sexy bar terraces and even sexier cocktail menus, and pared-down rooms make it one of the region’s most exclusive resorts. Come here to wine, dine, swim and look cool. Rooms from €135 off-peak, €245 peak season. www.geckobeachclub.com.
Swim the Hellespont Bank Holiday weekend
Why not spend the May bank holiday weekend testing your endurance with a swim across Turkey’s Hellespont. A one-time swim honouring English poet Lord Byron’s inaugural crossing 200 years ago, the 4km stretch (it’ll feel like 3km with tidal assistance) will see you cross continents from Europe to Asia. With an hour and a half to complete the swim (Byron crossed in 1hr 10 mins and he swam breast stroke), the weekend will also feature some handy stroke guidance and the all important post-race celebration and dinner. Race on 3 May, for full info on swim and race, go to www.swimtrek.com
The Swan in Newby Bridge to reopen
Following its devastation during the Cumbrian floods of November 2009, The Swan has spent the last six months being lovingly restored to its former glory will reopen in June 2010. The hotel is a 17th-century converted alehouse that oozes country chic, with lovely locally sourced cuisine, quirky design, spa with ESPA treatments and indoor swimming pool. Rooms from £99 inc breakfast, www.swanhotel.com.