A classic walk through the old Armagnac region and the Gers with its landscape dotted with bullrings, bastides and castles interspersed with fields of sunflowers and corn. Traverse the centuries of time and the borders of Europe on the medieval pilgrim trail. In the 9th century, the tomb of the apostle St James was unearthed in Compostela. The site became the focus of a pilgrim trail beginning in France, and crossing northern Spain to Santiago de Compostela. This journey, along the Via Podiensis, the French Way of St James, takes pilgrims from Le Puy en Velay to the Pyrenees at St Jean Pied de Port. The route passes a multitude of churches and monasteries, resembling a travelling museum of Romanesque art. Six stages of this historic trail are included in our self-guided walking program in France.
This stage between Lectoure and Aire sur l'Adour takes you through the heart of the Armagnac region. Leaving the limestone coloured landscapes surrounding Lectoure, the trail weaves through the Gers with its open farmland interspersed with historic villages dominated by their cathedrals and churches, bullrings and bastides. Markets with an abundance of local products and fields of corn and vines lay testament to the areas deep connections to the land and the strong gastromomic traditions of the region.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Lectoure, Aire-sur-l'Adour, The
Lectoure, Aire-sur-l'Adour, The Way of St. James, La Romieu, Armagnac, Montréal-du-Gers, Eauze, Nogaro, Aire Sur L'adour
A charming walk off the beaten track in the Massif Central in France. Facing the Alps across the broad valley of the Rhone lies a walker’s paradise of hills where the Ardeche, Loire and Haute Loire regions meet. This is a watershed for some of France’s great rivers, a land of steeply terraced slopes, half-hidden valleys and tumbling streams, largely absent from the guidebooks. Massive ruined farmhouses seem to have grown from the landscape and the bleat of goats and call of a wild bird are often the only sounds you will hear.
From the first walk at Le Crestet take an ancient drove road, partly through orchards, to the market town of Lamastre, set amongst hills covered with ancient chestnut trees of enormous girth. Turn north now and climb to the old spa-town of Lalouvesc, perched at 1100m above the Rhone valley, with views East as far as the snow-covered Alps on a clear day. Skirting the Haut-Vivarais, looking down on tiny red-roofed hamlets clinging to steep grassy slopes, continue to the hill-village of St. Bonnet le Froid; then south through fields yellow with wild daffodils in late spring and orchids in early summer, skirting the Lac de Devesset (good for a possible dip on a warm day) to St Agreve. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Mezenc & Mt. Gerbier de Jonc, the source of the mighty Loire River, this small market town is a centre for cross-country skiing in winter. Its narrow main street is crammed with old-fashioned shops, selling Le Puy lentils and Rhone wine from the barrel. This 8-day circular walk then goes south past the mighty, ruined Chateau de Rochebonne overlooking the River Eyrieux. Continue to the narrow valley town of St. Martin de Valamas and then back to St. Agreve. On the way back to Lamastre, the circuit goes west along an ancient mule-road, the “Voie des Marchands”, with breathtaking views of the meticulously terraced slopes of the Haut Vivarais to the north.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Lyon, Lamastre, Lalouvesc, St Bo
Lyon, Lamastre, Lalouvesc, St Bonnet Le Froid, St Agreve
Start off the week in the Troodos Mountains and the stone-built village of Kakopetria, with its narrow, cobbled streets and the nearby 11th century painted church, Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis, one of ten that make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Painted Churches in the Troodos Region. Enjoy fabulous views across the Solea and Marathasa valleys to the sea as well as the northern slope of Mount Olympus - the highest point in Cyprus and home to both a long-range British radar installation and a ski resort in winter.
The next part of your trip heads towards the Northwest and Droushia with walks across the Laona Plateau with its picturesque stone-built villages. There's also the possibility of visiting a local winery. Enjoy fabulous panoramic views as you head towards the coast at delightful Lara Beach and the dramatic Avakas Gorge Nature trail. As your luggage is transported to your final hotel, you'll walk from Droushia to the Baths of Aphrodite cave, enjoying spectacular views of Cyprus's Northwest coast with the whole of Chrysochous Bay laid out before you, from the northwest tip of the island at Cape Arnaoutis, all the way to Pomos village in the northeast. You'll also walk stretches of the Smigies, Adonis and Aphrodite Trails with stunning views from the Moutti tis Sotiras peak and enjoy a walk along the North coast, visiting some of the best beaches and coves including Fontana Amoroza, the Blue Lagoon, Manolis Beach and more.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
12-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Nicosia, Akamas, Kakopetria, Mar
Nicosia, Akamas, Kakopetria, Marathasa Valley, Droushia, Agios Georgios Tis Pegeias, Baths Of Aphrodite, Akamas Peninsula
El Hierro is the least known, and most westerly, of the Canary Islands. In fact, it was the most westerly point of the 'old world'. El Hierro has escaped mass tourism and with a population of just over 6,500 it has a very different feel to the other Canarian islands. The Herrenos are fiercely proud of their island and are very welcoming towards visitors who come to appreciate the environment, such as walkers.
Like its neighbours, El Hierro was formed by volcanic activity along an offshoot of the mid-Atlantic ridge. There has not been an eruption on the island since the 18th century, but the cones of ash and old lava flows are a prominent feature of the island. The small central plateau, at 1000m or more, offers a mixture of volcanic scenery, pastures (cattle, sheep and goats provide fine cheeses), and the beautiful Canarian pine woodlands. To the north the lowland of El Golfo resembles a huge bite taken out of the island, and the impressive bordering escarpment, reaching 1500m in altitude, features in our walks. On the lower land of El Golfo vines, bananas and pineapples are grown. The islanders have preserved a number of local traditions and some of their sites are included in our routes. Overall, there is a surprisingly rich variety for such a small area!
The walking is designed to pass through the variety of landscapes on the island and to seek out the most spectacular views and a number of locations of cultural and historical significance to the islanders. No two days are the same. Your El Hierro experience begins in the small town of Valverde up on the plateau- the official capital of El Hierro. For early arrivals there are short walks locally to help you to get the feel of the island. From Valverde the route winds across the plateau, down to El Golfo and up again, then across to the far west of the island before heading back again across the plateau to descend and finish by the east coast.
You accommodation is a mix of simple and charming apartments and hostels, to 3 star hotels. All have restaurants either on site or very close by and so we have included half board for you on this holiday.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Hostel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
El Hierro, Mocanal , La Frontera
El Hierro, Mocanal , La Frontera , La Restinga, Las Playas, Tenerife
One of the first destinations in the world to be awarded the special certificate as a Biosphere Reserve, the landscape is unique and awe inspiring, with magnificent volcanic craters, stark lava fields displaying a myriad of different colours, and beaches, ranging from white sands to volcanic black dust.
The island is very easy to drive across, the journey from the northern tip of Orzola to the beaches of Papagayo in the south takes just over 1 hour drive, giving you plenty of opportunity to explore.
Some of the best food and wine in the Canaries can be found here, so make sure you try the local specialities, Canarian potatoes, mojo sauce, estofado stew and the delicious boquerones, (anchovy fillets), perhaps accompanied by a locally produced wine, the widely regarded Malvasi - again the result of the rich volcanic soil.
This self-guided, single centre holiday highlights the best of Lanzarote; from its pretty inland villages with verdant terraces and fields, to the varied coastline and beaches, the exquisite volcanic landscape, and the gently pervading influence of Cesar Manrique. Whatever you decide to do either taking a slow and relaxed tour of some of the best locations, or a varied itinerary of walking, swimming and cycling on La Graciosa, there is something for everyone here.
Your week is based at the Rural Finca La Florida in San Bartolome. Originally a family home, the 15 spacious rooms of this delightful hotel with its superb on site restaurant, provide the perfect base for your holiday. The hotel has everything you will need including a fabulous restaurant, swimming pool , sun terrace and even spa treatments for a bit of downtime!
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Home-stay, Hotel
Age Range
12-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Lanzarote, Playa Quemada, Calder
Lanzarote, Playa Quemada, Caldera Blanca, Soo , La Graciosa
The awe inspiring architecture is clearly evident, especially in the UNESCO world heritage site of Valletta, Malta's capital city. With so many rich and colourful traditions and excellent gastronomy, there is plenty on these islands to tantalise your tastebuds.
This holiday gives the perspective on two different Maltese islands, Malta being the largest of the two, only 27km long and 14.5km wide so you'll see plenty of breath taking sea views with dramatic sandstone cliffs, time worn salt pans and perfect fishing villages where the traditional and colourful Luzzo boats can be seen bobbing around in the bays. In Malta you are based just outside Valletta in St Julian's, your 7 day bus pass allows you to make the most of your time on the islands enabling you to access the start of the walks and return at the end. Walk around Malta's 'fish tail' where the watch towers along the coast are evident of its history and where there are stunning views across to Gozo and Comino. Enjoy the sites of the capital Valletta, the smallest capital in Europe and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's full of narrow streets, impressive architecture, fountains and ancient city walls, however if you need a rest, there are plenty of cafes, restaurant and bars in which to stop and watch the world go by.
Your hotel in Malta is based in the quieter side of St Julian's just 350m away from the front at Balluta Bay and is tucked away in a quiet, narrow alley. A modern and contemporary hotel with striking decor, it's rooftop infinity pool is a perfect place to relax after a days walking. Your stay here is on a B&B basis as there are so many excellent restaurants nearby for you to find the best spot for dinner. Valletta is also just a short taxi ride away should you wish to spend an evening in the capital.
On day 5 of your holiday you are transferred to Gozo to discover your second island and the second largest of the three Maltese islands. At only 14km by 7km at its widest point, nowhere in Gozo is too far away, making it the ideal choice for a walking holiday. The slow pace of life along with the air of tranquillity also makes Gozo the perfect place to relax. Rich in history and culture you there is plenty to see on your walks around the island taking in exceptional coastal views as you go. The walks guide you around the island's impressive coastline and through the cobbled streets of the traditional towns and villages.
Its rugged landscape ensures spectacular views including Fungus Rock, a natural stone outcrop in the centre of Dwejra Bay, and the Inland Sea. Between autumn and late spring, the countryside bursts into life, revealing an incredible wealth of flora and fauna, with colourful wildflowers and scented herbs.
Your hotel in Gozo is based in the capital Victoria. An elegant hotel in which you can relax, however being in the heart of Victoria there are a plethora of bars and restaurants to entertain you. Explore the medieval citadel with impressive walls and be enchanted by the far reaching views from the top across the entire island.
The vast expansion of its humble Roman roads connecting France and Spain has, over time, fanned out across Iberia and western Europe, making it one of the most unmissable long distance trails in the world.
On this seven-night walk, you'll start in Sarria, a large town famed for Galicia's antique fairs. From here you'll walk along farm tracks, paths and country lanes, and through vineyards, stopping off at churches to admire the frescoes and tavernas for lunch en route. Be sure to have your Pilgrim Passport stamped in bars, hotels and churches along the way to qualify for a certificate from the official Pilgrim Office in Santiago.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Sarria, Portomarín, Lestedo, O C
Sarria, Portomarín, Lestedo, O Coto, Arzúa, Rua, Santiago De Compostela
The world famous Coast-to-Coast is an exhilarating long-distance walking route originally described by the writer Alfred Wainwright in his book of the same name. First published in 1973, the book has grown in renown and today is as popular as ever, with the walk itself featuring on the bucket list of all keen walkers.
At nearly 200 miles in length, the route takes you across country, up fells and down dales, from Cumbria's St Bees, on the shores of the Irish Sea, to the picturesque fishing village of Robin Hood's Bay in Yorkshire, passing fabulous landscapes at every turn.
The tour runs through three national parks in northern England - the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors - and features some of the most spectacular and beautiful scenery in the country.
The walking is challenging and recommended for experienced fell walkers and confident map readers only, but the sense of achievement and camaraderie when you encounter fellow coast to coasters makes it all worthwhile.
Your accommodation each night is in carefully picked B&Bs, with either ensuite or private facilities, where friendly smiles and warm welcomes to weary walkers are guaranteed!
Please note that GPX tracks and a routes and maps guide are provided on this trip, along with our usual maps. This replaces our usual turn by turn route directions.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hostel, Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
12-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
St Bees, Robin Hoods Bay, Reeth
St Bees, Robin Hoods Bay, Reeth, Richmond, Danby Wiske, Osmotherley, Clay Bank Top, Blakey, Grosmont, Robin Hood’s Bay, Ennerdale Bridge, Rosthwaite, Grasmere, Patterdale, Shap, Orton, Kirkby Stephen, Keld
Not just one of the finest, but one of the oldest treks in the world, Tour du Mont Blanc is steeped in history and dramatic beauty - it's easy to recognise its worldwide charm. With captivating views along well-trodden paths, the entirety of this 170km trail circumnavigates Mont Blanc massif, crossing through France, Italy & Switzerland.
We've chosen to feature the most outstanding sections that capture the grandeur, yet also the beautiful simplicity of Mont Blanc. Our twin centre holiday is based in Chamonix, fondly referred to as the adventure capital of the world, and in Courmayeur, a classic Italian resort full of character.
On your very first walk, you'll experience sweeping 360° views over the French, Swiss and Italian Alps - is there a better way to start your trip! As you traverse the trails of Mont Blanc, you'll come across huge glaciers, snow-capped summits, stunning mirrored lakes, and serene foothills painted with wildflowers.
Your 4* accommodations immerse you in traditional alpine hospitality with superb levels of comfort and service. Both hotels are very close to great transport links for cable cars, cog-trains, and mountain buses.
You have the option to stay in 3* accommodations on this trip, please quote W07MT for prices.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort, Hut
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Chamonix, Aiguille Du Midi, Les
Chamonix, Aiguille Du Midi, Les Contamines-Montjoie, Courmayeur, Val Veny
The Loire is famous for its chateaux with over 300 in total to discover. This easy paced, gentle walking holiday balances peaceful, off-the-beaten-track discoveries, with the splendour and opulence of some of the finest Renaissance chateaux in France. There's no tough climbing but you're still rewarded with beautifully unspoilt landscapes and enchanting views at every turn.
You follow a linear route from Blois, passing quiet hamlets and wine villages, before continuing alongside the River Cher through Montrichard, Chenonceaux and Montlouis. Then, you'll enjoy wonderful walks through open fields and sprawling vineyards - with opportunities for wine-tasting - and on to Leonardo da Vinci's bustling town of Amboise. Along the way you'll take in some of France's most impressive chateaux: Chenonceau mesmerises with its iconic arches over the River Cher (be sure to taste the chateau's wine and enjoy a scenic riverside walk); the majestic Chateau d'Amboise is a former royal residence and also houses the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci; while Chateau de Chambord is set in a majestic nature reserve.
The places you'll stay in have been hand-picked for their superb locations, atmospheric charm, excellent cuisine and warm, friendly owners. As well as chateaux, the Loire prides itself on its delicious local cuisine and wine and we've included 2 evening meals - given the fantastic variety of restaurants on your doorstep, we thought you'd appreciate us leaving the choice to you.
'Every known superstition in the world is gathered into the Carpathians, as if it were the centre of some sort of imaginative whirlpool.' So says the narrator of Dracula, the late 19th century English novel of Victorian superstitions that used this area of Romania to represent something on the edge of civilisation.
A trip to this part of the world is to enter a maelstrom of natural sensation. There is everywhere a bewildering mass of flora and fauna. Profusions of trees and flowers and grasses are barely touched by agricultural exploitation. Be alert, however, for roe deer and chamois and hedgehogs and rodents, plus the sight and sound of the area's 190 bird species. Transylvania is a region full of beauty of every kind, sometimes little towns or castles on the top of steep hills.
This trek rises daily through Carpathian lower reaches, a green land full of forests and woods, with here steep hills crowned with clumps of trees, and there villages newly built in a riot of colour and style. Smile and say Boo Naa (Hello) and you'll meet open-faced strangers who say all the country people show 'hospitality, flexibility, honesty'. The message is that tourists are welcome.
This tour will open up your appetite and invite you to sensory pleasures. The vines may provide a beautiful setting, but they also produce an excellent wine that can be enjoyed all along this trip.
From Dijon to Beaune the walks provide a wonderful balance of quiet country lanes, vineyard tracks and woodland trails taking in sleepy, unspoilt villages, and majestic vine-clad hills. Sample fine wines in 13th century cellars and enjoy lunch in a selection of medieval towns including world-renowned Nuits-St-Georges. Walk the historic streets of Dijon and Beaune, hunt for truffles, taste local cheese in a rural manufactory, learn about blackcurrant liquor and enjoy a wine tasting at the majestic wine estate Chateau Clos Vougeot.
In this region known for its epicurean finesse, you can really enjoy fine dining. There will be excellent local dishes such as Beef Bourguignon, Oeufs en Meurette, Poulet de Bresse a la Creme, Perche aux Noix and of course exquisite cheeses like the pungent Epoisses de Bourgogne, to pair with the region's incredible Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.
This tour will stimulate all your senses.
It is hard to believe that the Azores are part of Europe. Born from the immensity of the Atlantic Ocean, this lush green archipelago of volcanic islands is a far cry from continental Portugal. The nine Islands of the Azores are Europe's western most point located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The Azores have long been known as one of the most scenically varied areas to explore, each of the nine islands has its own characteristics, from steep craters to abundant wildlife and sites of historical interest. The islands of the Azores are a paradise for walkers and nature lovers with their blue lakes bordered by flowers, dazzling views of the sea from high in the hills and lush green landscapes of ancient volcanic craters.
This 14-night island hopping holiday features the best of the Eastern and Central Islands of the Azores including Sao Miguel, Sao Jorge, Pico, Faial & Santa Maria.
Sao Miguel is famous for its beautiful landscapes and exceptional volcanic lakes. The largest of the Azorean islands it is known as Ilhe Verde - Green Island. A stunning coastline of small bays with black sand and precipitous sea cliffs interspersed with small harbours add further interest. The island features three major calderas (volcanic craters) now with lakes sparkling at the bottom. Sete Citdades even has a village at the bottom of the crater and two lakes one blue and one contrasting green.
Sao Jorge has the most-jagged coastline of the Azores Islands, with coastal cliffs surrounded at sea level by Fajas. These small flat pieces of land are formed by lava flows and are distinctive features of the Azores. Discover spectacular waterfalls, lush ravines and the chance to explore the interesting fishing village of Velas.
Pico is the most volcanic of the Azores Islands, renowned for its almost perfectly coned mountain of Pico Alto standing at 2352m, making it the highest peak in all of Portugal. Enjoy stunning walks through interesting fauna and picturesque villages. The local approach to wine production and vineyard culture has been preserved through the years, making for remarkable scenery of unique vineyards and dark grey basalt.
Faial is known as the Blue Island for the abundance of blue hydrangeas seen all over the island and due to its deep relationship with the sea, with its harbour proving important for many adventurous transatlantic sailors. Famous for its stewed octopus in wine amongst the Azoreans - you should most certainly try some! Faial island offers a contrasting picture of rich and diverse flora and a dry lunar landscape. The walking here takes you to volcanic crater rims with breath-taking views and the opportunity to explore the lighthouse and museum which shows the history of volcanic eruptions.
Santa Maria is the oldest of the Azores Islands and being the most eastern and southern island, its climate is also much drier. Due to its drier climate, Santa Maria offers unique characteristics including fascinating rock formations and stunning fauna (it is a geologists and botanist's paradise). It also features what is considered by many to be the best beach in the Azores, Praia Formosa.
Walking toursSightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Azores, Sao Miguel, Faja Grande
Azores, Sao Miguel, Faja Grande, Parque Rural Del Teno, Rua De Santa Maria, Vila Do Bispo, Lagoa Do Fogo, Sete Cidades, Sao Jorge, Fajã Dos Cubres, Ponta delgada, Pico
Hadrian's Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage site, is Britain's largest archaeological feature and was the northernmost limit of the Roman Empire. An immense feat of labour, the building of the wall started in AD122 during the reign of emperor Hadrian and took 6 years to complete. Three Roman legions completed the task of building a 73 mile long wall with 80 milecastle fortlets with two observation turrets between each one and then larger garrison forts every five miles or so along the wall.
This 5-night self-guided walk along Hadrian's Wall, from West to East, starts at Lanercost Priory and ends in Corbridge, taking in some of the best-preserved Roman sites in the UK. We've chosen this route direction so the prevailing winds (and any inclement weather!) are always at your back and the scenery in this direction is considerably better than the other way round.
Follow Hadrian's Wall Path across the rolling countryside and rugged moorland of Northumberland. The route passes the world-famous Sycamore Gap and over craggy hillsides, such as those of Walltown, Winshield and Sewingshields Crags.
You'll have the possibility of visiting some amazingly well-preserved sites including the Roman forts of Birdoswald, Vindolanda, Housesteads and Chesters. These sites offer a captivating journey into the history and significance of this iconic frontier and allow you to truly appreciate the engineering feat that marked the northernmost boundary of the Roman Empire. Wander through the ruins of a Roman fort, a turret, and a milecastle, each telling a unique story of life along the wall. Delve into the story of Hadrian's Wall through informative displays, artifacts, and interactive elements that bring the history of the Wall to life. Gain a deeper understanding of the strategic importance of this frontier and the lives of those who inhabited and defended it. You finish your route in the affluent and once-bustling Roman town of Corbridge.
Stay in welcoming inns, guesthouses and B&B's with hearty Northumberland breakfasts to set you up for a day of exploring.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House
Age Range
12-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Corbridge, Greenhead, Lanercost
Corbridge, Greenhead, Lanercost, Once Brewed, Chollerford