Less than 100 miles off the north west coast of Africa, in the centre of the Canary Islands archipelago, sits the volcanic island of Gran Canaria - often referred to as 'a miniature continent' with its extraordinarily varied landscapes ranging from the north's lush green forests and valleys, to the towering mountainous interior, to the desert-like dunes and beautiful white beaches of its southern shores. For millennia, the elements have sculpted the most outstanding natural beauty: steep volcanic mountains punctuated by deep palm ravines; imposing rocks towering above high plateaux; vast fertile valleys of prickly pear, aloes, almonds and figs - it's little wonder that nearly half of the island is protected by UNESCO Nature Reserves and offers some of the finest hiking in Europe.
This twin-centre holiday offers varied and interest packed walking routes, with easier and more difficult choices of walk daily. We take you from the cauldron of Bandama whose eruption, over 2,000 years ago, influenced the entire geography of the island, to the emblematic Roque Nublo, an imposing natural crag made of volcanic rock from which there are 360 degree views of the whole island. Then there is Gran Canaria's vibrant and colourful capital, Las Palmas, where you can step back in time in the city's charming historic old quarter.
You spend your first three nights at the La Hacienda del Buen Suceso, located in a quiet and tranquil setting above the village of Arucas, the Hacienda was once a country estate and has perfectly retained all its colonial charm. Nestled in the surrounding banana plantations, the Hacienda is just 15 minutes from Las Palmas and makes a perfect base for the first half of your trip. For your next four nights, you'll head to the very heart of the island and the Hotel Fonda De La Tea . There is the option to upgrade in Tejeda to the Parador de Tejeda, subject to availability and at a supplement.
See a lesser-known part of Italy on this 16-day adventure, all with a handy local leader by your side. From the fresh waters and fortifications of Tropea, all the way to the volcanoes of the Aeolian Islands, you’ll stray off Italy’s beaten path. Discover this less-visited part of the country before delving into the spectacular sights of bustling Sicily, the volcanic valleys of Mt. Etna, timeworn streets of Syracuse, the Baroque wonders of Ragusa and the rich anti-Mafia history of Palermo. Starring dramatic cliffside villages, clear waters and delicious seafood, this is a chance to experience the highlights of this European gem.
Kythnos has all the extraordinary beauty and charm that we associate with the Greek Islands, but without the hustle and bustle of the popular tourist spots. Certainly, one of the lesser-known Cycladic Islands, Kythnos is one of the closest to the mainland and is renowned for its striking landscapes, golden sunsets, traditional architecture, ancient archaeological sites, and of course, its joyful community of welcoming locals. Fishermen provide the island with fresh fish every day and the lands are cultivated with care and love as the community provides exquisite products like the well-known thyme honey.
Full of exceptional walking trails, this trip will take you to the most beautifully sandy beaches with clear waters, across wild countryside, and past ancient settlements with uninterrupted ocean views. You'll visit the excavation site of a 2,500-year-old ancient city, the ruins of an intriguing Byzantine castle set on a spectacular headland, and even natural hot springs by the beach.
Your accommodation on Kythnos is authentically Cycladic with beautiful white stone walls and a central courtyard to bask in the Greek sunshine. You have the option to stay in traditional Greek studios on Kythnos, please quote W06KY for prices.
Your last night in spent in the port town of Lavrio on the mainland. Located just 150m from a lovely sandy beach, your beautiful hotel has an outdoor pool and poolside restaurant for you to enjoy. You can also visit the nearby Poseidon temple during your stay in Lavrio.
Experience some of Scotland’s most iconic walks, like the West Highland Way and the Great Glen Way, and take on Ben Nevis – the highest peak in Scotland and the entire United Kingdom – with two experts by your side. Fort William, located on the shores of Loch Linnhe, is famous for being the gateway to Ben Nevis and will be your home away from home on this trip. Trek through an ever-changing landscape, rich in Scottish culture and dramatic scenery and after each active day, unwind in a charming Scottish town with atmospheric pubs to celebrate!
Begin your Highland adventure with a walk up Beinn Enaiglair, famously known as the Gateway to the West. This route offers a gentle ascent and sweeping views across the surrounding countryside, making it an excellent choice for those new to the region or seeking a scenic introduction. The standout feature: a vantage point that sets the stage for further exploration, ideal for walkers eager to experience the west Highlands’ beauty.
Looking for a Highland adventure that blends scenic beauty with rewarding exercise? The Ullapool Hill and Beinn Eilideach Loop tour offers an invigorating circuit above the charming village of Ullapool. Hikers will ascend gently rolling hills, taking in sweeping vistas over Loch Broom and the surrounding peaks. This trip is perfect for those who relish a moderately challenging walk with the added reward of panoramic views and peaceful Highland air. Its unique selling point lies in the stunning outlooks and the opportunity to experience Ullapool from a whole new perspective.
This wonderfully diverse 5 island hopping whisky and walking tour incorporating the island of Arran and the islands of the Inner Hebrides, offers a taste of Scotland in every way you can imagine! Walking overdramatic mountains and through lush valleys, relaxing ferry journeys with superb views, and some of the best Malt whisky Distillery tours Scotland has to offer.
We begin the adventure with 2 nights on Arran where we ascend majestic Goatfell mountain and visit the mystical Machrie Moor standing stones and enjoy a tour of Arran’s highly regarded whisky distillery.
Then we are off to Islay for 3 nights – the southernmost of the Inner Hebrides, known for its numerous whisky distilleries producing the island’s characteristically peaty malts. We have several tastings and at least one distillery tour during our time here as well as some beautiful walks including stunning coastlines and snippets of the island’s history.
From here we take a short ferry journey over to the isle of Jura for a magnificent mountain ascent as well as a visit to Jura distillery.
Our next island is Mull where we are based for 4 nights giving us plenty of time to explore this magical isle including a mountain walk on Scotland’s most westerly ‘Munro’ (listed mountain over 3000 feet) and a day visit to the small fascinating island of Ulva where we do a delightful circular walk on this lesser know community-owned and run island.
We also have time to visit beautiful rugged coastlines and of course, incorporate a tasting tour at Tobermory distillery.
Discover the Dolomites on a small group hiking adventure. With easy to moderate walks, conveniently located accommodation and a knowledgeable local leader to keep everything running smoothly, this trip offers an active yet leisurely way to explore one of Italy’s most iconic mountain ranges. Base yourself in the alpine town of Dobbiaco – surrounded by pointy peaks and lush meadows – and spend eight days hiking through UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscapes, kicking back in village inns and refuelling with hearty mountain food – apple strudel, anyone?
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.
This self guided walking holiday takes you to the very heart of Tenerife to discover its traditional towns, wild hidden valleys, spectacular coastline and impressive volcanic landscapes. The walking is both spectacular and rewarding and with a car it is easy to discover what the island has to offer.
You begin in 'Isla Baja', where terraced fields and abundant wildflowers form a colourful blanket over deep valleys and plunging ravines, and traditional farms still produce goat's cheese for which the area is renowned. The region's authenticity is fiercely protected and the town of Garachico has won awards for its preservation. From here, head to the UNESCO recognised Teide National Park, with its lava fields, beautiful volcanic chaos and iconic Mount Teide scratching the sky at over 3700m above sea level.
We provide fully detailed route notes with a choice of easier or more challenging circular walks daily, so you can tailor your day's walk to your current energy levels - but with all the walks highlighting the stunning landscapes of this remarkably diverse island.
Experience Mont Blanc and the southern French Alps on this walk that incorporates the best of the GR5 or GTA (Grande Traversée des Alpes). To the iconic Mont Blanc, Western Europe's highest massif, from Briancon, the capital of the southern French Alps, this challenging alpine walk takes in the highlights of the famous GTA or GR5 long-distance hiking trail. On this exclusive trek, you will experience some amazing and undiscovered parts of the French Alps, like Beaufortain, Vanoise, Thabor and a memorable side excursion to the "Vallée Étroite" (narrow valley) on the border of France and Italy. A mix of quality hotels sleeping a maximum of 2 to 3 people per room, and dorm-style accommodation in traditional mountain huts will offer you a comfortable experience and allow you to fully immerse yourself in mountain culture. During the trip, your main luggage will be transferred every day (except on day 4). Carrying only your day pack, you will be better able to appreciate the spectacular vistas unfolding around you.
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Hut, Resort
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Les Contamines-Montjoie, Les Con
Les Contamines-Montjoie, Les Contamines, Briançon, Col De La Vallée Étroite, Savoie, Vanoise National Park, Tignes, Peisey-Nancroix, Cormet De Roselend
On this self-guided, hotel-to-hotel walking holiday, you'll explore the beautifully tranquil Langhe region of Piedmont, a gastronomic gem quietly tucked into Italy's north-western corner. Recently recognised by UNESCO, the countryside is a glorious mix of gently rippling, wave-shaped hills cloaked by layers of vines, sunflowers and oak forests, crowned with honey-hued hamlets and majestic Savoy castles.
In the heart of the Italian Dolomites, the Alta Badia region boasts some of the most spectacular alpine scenery as well as a reputation for excellent cuisine. The village of San Cassiano is no stranger to either and sits just 15km, as the crow flies, due West of Cortina d'Ampezzo (or 30km by road and the Falzarego Pass). Around 500m in altitude above the village lies a large area of beautiful alpine meadow, dotted with traditional wooden mountain huts and the most amazing panoramic views. At some points you have a 360-degree vista that spans from the Austrian Alps to the North to the Marmolada range to the South (the highest peaks in the Dolomites), with the Fanes Natural Park to the East and the Sella mountain range and Gardena Pass to the West - all stunning views in their own rights but when combined it's almost mind-blowing!
Unearth the mysteries of Scotland’s ancient caves on the "Bone Caves To Traligill Caves And Inchnadampf" tour. This adventure explores a series of historic caverns, renowned for their archaeological finds and geological wonders. Journey through rugged valleys and limestone cliffs as you trace the footsteps of early inhabitants and encounter breathtaking natural formations. The standout feature: a fascinating blend of spelunking and scenic trekking, making it a must for those intrigued by history and the natural world.