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!
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?
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
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.
Fondly referred to as the adventure capital of the world, you’ll be based in Chamonix where you’ll have easy access to the most beautiful sections of Mont Blanc. Experience sweeping 360° views over the French, Swiss and Italian Alps, witness huge glaciers, snow-capped summits, and stunning mirrored lakes.
Your 3* hotel immerses you in traditional alpine hospitality with superb levels of comfort and nearby transport links for cable cars, cog-trains, and mountain buses.
You have the option to upgrade to a 4* hotel on this trip, please quote W04MP for prices.
Discover northern Croatia on foot, a heady blend of coastal paths, olive groves and Adriatic islands. Starting in historic Zagreb, you’ll explore the walkable capital and tumbling waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes, before continuing to the island of Krk. Natural beauty awaits, including the famous Lungomare seaside promenade on neighbouring Cres island. Throughout, you’ll be guided by a tour leader who knows the trails better than anyone – allowing you to explore northern Croatia like an insider.
Amazing discovery of the fjords via hiking, cruise, ferry rides and mini-bus travel. The accommodations at Nes Gard and Fjaerland Fjordstove Hotel added to the spectacular hiking. Views of the fjords and farm-to-table food was amazing at both Inns. Each day of hiking was a unique experience ; all of which offered amazing views.
The Italian Riviera still has secrets to share… if you know where to go. One of them is seaside Chiavari, ideally placed between Genoa and the Cinque Terre. From this base, we embark on a well-balanced blend of scenic walks, cultural landmarks and exquisite regional cuisine. You’ll sip wine with world-renowned producers, master pasta and pesto with professional chefs, and hike glorious trails. A free day to visit the Cinque Terre will be a must for most, while the pleasure of staying away from the tourists allows you to enjoy the Italian Riviera in peace.
Get ready for a one-of-a-kind winter journey through Italy’s snow-covered Dolomites with Taste and Slow Italy’s “Winter Alps and Dolomites” tour. This seven-day adventure combines the serene beauty of Northern Italy with cultural heritage, outdoor fun, and festive holiday charm. Centered around Val Badia and Bolzano, this itinerary promises breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and authentic winter experiences.
Start your journey in Val Badia, staying at a cozy hotel in an enchanting valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Relax in the spa and savor local flavors before setting out on a guided snowshoe tour to the iconic Five Towers of Cortina d’Ampezzo, where you’ll enjoy panoramic mountain views and traditional refreshments.
For ski lovers, Val Badia offers both cross-country and downhill options, with private lessons available for all levels. History enthusiasts will also appreciate the snowshoe tour to the Andraz Castle, a medieval fortress that brings the past to life against a stunning winter landscape.
In Bolzano, embrace the holiday spirit with visits to charming Christmas markets. Wander through stalls offering artisanal gifts, mulled wine, and Apfelstrudel, and visit a Termeno winery to taste local wines like Gewürztraminer. Here, learn about the unique alpine terroir that gives these wines their distinct character.
Conclude your tour with optional visits to Castel Roncolo, known for medieval frescoes, or take a scenic cable car to the Renon Plateau for stunning alpine views.
This tour is perfect for those seeking both relaxation and adventure, blending Italy’s alpine charm, traditional hospitality, and majestic winter landscapes. Join us for an unforgettable winter escape that celebrates the best of Italy’s winter magic.
Take in the tranquil beauty of the Austrian Alps as you conquer the highest peak, roam on two wheels with your bike and even take to the air on a tandem paragliding trip. Cap it all off in style with trips to local restaurants, and the chance to kick back with your Contiki crew at our luxury Haus Schöneck - a Special Stay worthy of the name with an on-site bar and cosy lounge area.
Get ready for an adventure through Ireland’s most breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and lively culture. From ancient castles to wild coastal cliffs, from snug pubs to exhilarating hikes, this journey is packed with unforgettable moments.
We begin at the legendary Rock of Cashel, a 1000-year-old marvel steeped in history, before heading to Cork, the so-called "Rebel County," where local pride runs deep. A kiss of the famous Blarney Stone might just leave you with the gift of gab before we settle into the charming maritime town of Kinsale for fresh seafood and lively pubs.
The wild beauty of the Ring of Kerry awaits, where we’ll cycle through Killarney National Park, marvel at glacier-carved lakes, and experience the charm of Dingle—where even the hardware stores come with a bar!
Our coastal adventure continues along the dramatic Cliffs of Moher and the windswept Aran Islands, before diving into the energy of Galway, where music and storytelling thrive. Finally, we’ll summit Croagh Patrick, following in the footsteps of pilgrims past, rewarded with breathtaking views of Clew Bay.
This is Ireland at its finest—rugged, historic, and full of life.
Early morning pick up from city hotels and transfer to airport in Istanbul for flight to Cappadocia. Meeting at Kayseri or Nevsehir Airport and transfer to Cappadocia to meet with the group and guide.
Walk through the “Fairy Chimneys” in Devrent Valley, Paşabağ (Monks’) Valley, practice pottery production with the ancient technique in Avanos. Visit to Göreme, the "open-air museum“ holding the earliest churches and chapels carved in fairy chimneys presenting finest examples of frescoes. Uçhisar Castle, the highest point in the region.
Lunch will be served during the tour.
Evening transfer to Kayseri or Nevsehir Airport for flight back to Istanbul.
Meeting at Istanbul Airport and transfer to hotels.