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.
Walk the southern half of the the most challenging long distance walking trail in Europe, the GR20. The southern section of the GR20 is considered slightly less challenging than the northern route, however the landscapes are equally stunning. During the 6 days of hiking you will gain an appreciation for the rural communities who live in the region and the rugged wilderness that characterises the route. Your main luggage is transferred, allowing you to walk with just a day pack. From the forest of Vizzavona to the Needles of Bavella and on to Conca, the full GR20 experience is encapsulated in the daily views ranging from alpine meadows where sheep graze, to views to the sea as far as the Italian island of Sardinia. The sixth day is the longest on the GR20 if you take the upper route, and your legs will remember it long after you have left Corsica but the satisfaction of completing this section of this epic walk makes it all worthwhile. On arrival in Conca you can celebrate at the sign marking the end of the GR20!
Note: for safety reasons this trip can not be operated for one person / solo traveller. Minimum two people are required.
Ascend Stac Pollaidh for one of Scotland’s most magnificent viewpoints on this invigorating walking tour. The climb, though short, rewards hikers with sweeping panoramas of lochs, mountains, and the distant coastline. The tour’s highlight: reaching a summit renowned for its breathtaking vistas, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a rewarding hike with stunning photo opportunities.
Discover the amazing, world-famous wine-making region in the Douro Valley with our carefully crafted Douro Wine Region hike tour. Hike up and down the terraced vineyards that were built from the schistose rocks from the river up to the hill tops and delight in the rich regional cuisine tasting the world-famous Port and Douro wines from the region.
This self-guided hike tour begins in Sabrosa, birthplace of Ferdinand Magellan and one of the most emblematic towns in the region. Walk along trails through scenic environments, discovering gems such as the noble wine-making village of Provesende and Lalim—a stopping place on the Cistercian monk’s wine route. You will also visit Pinhão, a town in the heart of Douro where the majority of the finest Port and Douro wine estates are located.
Enjoy a serene boat ride on a rabelo, used for shipping young wines downriver to the warehouses in Vila Nova de Gaia, across from Porto. While the monumental city of Lamego invites you to discover local sparkling wine, the typical villages among the terraced vineyards above the Douro River offer breathtaking landscapes that will leave you in awe.
Please see our itinerary for more details.
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.
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 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!