THE Quirky DOZEN
BLAENAU FFESTINIOG, SNOWDONIA, WALES
Once the ‘slate capital of the world’, the former quarries that slice into the impressive Snowdonian mountainside now form one of the UK’s most popular activity centres.
Mountain bikers will love the downhill trails, where you can set off from amid the clouds. Alternatively, for the ultimate thrill, swoop down the mountain courtesy of three zip-lines, or head below the surface to take on a unique underground course in a disused slate mine.
Where to stay Quarry View Touring Park is a 10-minute walk from Blaenau Ffestiniog and near the Ffestiniog Railway.
RATHLIN ISLAND, NORTHERN IRELAND
The Giant’s Causeway is as curious a place to visit as any, but for something different,