Alternative hen getaways

Oktoberfest - Munich, Germany
Although named Oktoberfest, this world famous festival runs from the end of September for two weeks each year. Six million litres of beer are consumed each year, which gives you a pretty good idea of what the festival consists of. But there's more: with music and parades to entertain the crowds, the whole of Munich gets into the party mood. So find a brewery tent to suit your taste and raise a plastic glass - Prost!

For more information, visit www.oktoberfest.de

Northern Lights
For a very special hen weekend for girls who want to do something truly unique, fly up to Lapland to witness the phenomenon of the Northern Lights, a spectacular natural light show that you will never forget. There is a less complicated scientific reason why this display occurs, which you will learn about while you are there, but it is enough just to experience this amazing natural phenomenon.

For more information, visit www.laplandfinland.com

October

Jeneverfeesten - Hasselt, Belgium
Belgium may be famous for its beer, chocolate and waffles, but in October the folk of Hasselt display their hidden talent and play host to their very own gin festival. So if you're into your G&Ts, you can enjoy the samples on a tour of a local distillery and there's even a fountain that offers free-flowing gin. Somebody pass the tonic!

For more information, visit www.visitflanders.com

Italian Job Rally - Imola, Italy
You can't get a much more alternative hen experience than taking part in the Italian Job Rally. This homage to the classic Michael Caine movie takes place every year for charity and is billed as 'an adventure of a lifetime with a difference and a real purpose'. You have to be a the proud owner of a Mini (or any car that is featured in the film) to be eligible for entry but you'll be joining 100 like-minded, Mini-loving enthusiasts. The event takes place in Imola and then you will drive back in convoy through amazing European scenery. If you can gather together a group of girls who are up for it, this adventure will have your stags drooling with envy!

For more information, visit www.italianjob.com