Laguna de Apoyo

Staying on the shores of this volcanic crater lake close to Managua, has to be one of the most relaxing getaways in Nicaragua. The lake is warmed by venting gases somewhere far beneath the surface - the lake is 200 metres deep in parts, making it considerably lower than sea level and the lowest point in Central America. It was a strenuous hour and a half slog uphill to reach this viewpoint but well worth the effort for the magnificent views across the lakes and volcanoes of Nicaragua.

Unlike some lakes in Nicaragua, it's really clean and as an added bonus, mosquitoes can't breed in the slightly sulphuric waters. We spent a couple of nights here with Simon's mum, Lynne. It was a good end to her holiday after a couple of weeks filled with walks and mountains in the north of the country.Lynne on a tyre

It's not difficult to feel chilled out as you bob about in a tyre in warm lake water inside a forest-lined volcano crater with sound of birds and howler monkeys in the background.