A seven-mile long lake that enjoys three hundred days of sunshine and is surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest: does it sound like the perfect holiday holiday? This is Big Bear Lake, situated about a hundred miles north-east of Los Angeles, and it offers a wealth of activities throughout the year. But if it is the ideal destination, will it also be too expensive? Not if you opt for self-catering accommodation. It might be a spacious apartment or a cabin by the forest, with a fully equipped kitchen for you to cook your family's favourite meals. You will be able to relax and organise your time just as you wish.

Whether you're after windsurfing, fishing, hiking, horse riding or mountain biking, you will find them all at Big Bear Lake. If you're looking for tennis or volleyball courts, softball fields and a beach area where you can go swimming, then Meadow Park is the place to be. In the winter, of course, skiing and snowboarding opportunities abound at Bear Mountain Ski Resort and Snow Summit Mountain Resort. You might want to experience the thrill of parasailing and delight in the views of Big Bear Valley from the air. Not into the great outdoors? Visit in September for the Big Bear Lake International Film Festival. For something a little different, there's the Solar Observatory on North Shore Drive.

Families with children will not want to miss the ninety-minute tour on the Big Bear Lake Pirate Ship, a replica of a Spanish galleon, complete with entertainment as well as pirates. Not brave enough for pirates? Try the Paddlewheel Tour Boat instead. For fine weather, there are easy hiking trails with opportunities for bird watching, and your youngest will enjoy feeding the ducks while you have a picnic. Animal lovers mustn't miss Moonridge Animal Park with its black bears, bobcats, eagles, barn owls and kestrels. The Magic Mountain Recreation Area is the place to go for activities such as go-karting, water slides and miniature golf. If your teenagers want to go bowling, then they should head for the Super Bear Arcade.

Rather than being cooped up in a hotel, consider renting a lakefront lodge or a cabin surrounded by forest at Big Bear Lake. Not only will you save money, but you will have more space to feel at ease. Take a look at our range of self-catering accommodation, and have a read through our genuine user reviews too. You're sure to find something to suit your family's particular needs, and we can assure you of excellent value.