The Ring of Kerry is one of the most beautiful parts of Ireland and doing a walking trip is one of the best ways to see it. This trip gets you well away from the tour coaches that take over the roads of this area and you will see a different side of the country you might not experience even if driving it yourself. The 6 days of walking takes in most of the Kerry Way and the tracks take you through national parks, farmland and along coastal paths. Staying at B&Bs in little towns, this trip gives you a taste of true Irish hospitality.
Ascend high passes of the Austrian Alps on foot and journey along picturesque valleys by bike. Cycle the serene alpine valleys and hike among the peaks of the Austrian Alps on this active trip from Innsbruck to Salzburg. Enjoy a variety of experiences as you travel through lush meadows, dramatic gorges and postcard-perfect villages. Walk to the dramatic Krimml Waterfalls – one of Europe’s highest – and explore peaceful ski towns nestled in the Zillertal Valley. Ride scenic cycle paths past traditional alpine huts, take a guided visit to the Moserboden hydroelectric dam, and discover local heritage at a salt mine or brewery. Evenings are spent in handpicked hotels, where you can relax with hearty regional meals and warm Austrian hospitality.
This walking holiday is based in the wonderfully unspoilt Euganean Hills, tucked in a quiet corner below the beautiful medieval city of Padua, west across the plain from Venice. Once volcanic islands, these hills have a striking conical appearance; they are cloaked in an astonishing variety of plant life including holm oak, maple, orchids, heather and poppies and have been recognised as a National Park. The lower slopes give way to colourful meadows and immaculately groomed vineyards so it's little wonder the region produces such a fine variety of wines!
Starting in the tiny hamlet of Cortela, nestled amongst vines, you head across poppy fields and through forests to Valnogaredo. You discover the jumbled cobbled streets of medieval Arqua Petrarca, where the famous 14th century Italian poet, Petrarch, made his home, before continuing through fertile fruit orchards to Galzignano. A convenient stone's throw from the Italian Baroque gardens of Valsanzibio, there's time to explore its magnificent maze before a series of outstanding views leads you to panoramically perched Teolo.
Santorini and Naxos are two of the most beautiful islands in the Cyclades but here is where the similarity ends. Santorini feels like no other place on earth: an ancient island that endured one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history. Here everything is bright like the whitewashed cube-shaped houses, the lapis lazuli sea and the sunsets that light up the caldera. Whilst the towns and beaches are understandably popular, the walking opportunities on the island are numerous, through volcanic landscapes and along spectacular cliffs along a series of mule tracks. Naxos on the other hand is the largest of the Cyclade islands with some of Greece's best white sand beaches, a smattering of ancient ruins and a lively town. Away from the coast, life has changed little in the last century. Traditional farming practices abound in a landscape of fertile valleys home to 1000 year old olive groves and impressive mountains beckoning to be climbed. One day is spent ascending the highest mountain of the area: Mt Zas. From its summit enjoy breathtaking views of olive-orchards set in sharp contrast with the deep blue Aegean Sea. The pace of the holiday is dictated by you, with plenty of opportunity after the walks to swim in the sea or hotel pool, wander through markets in the small towns and relax at a taverna to watch the sunset.
The walk was very satisfying. It was tougher than we expected however. Especially the Le Monastier to Le Bouchet. The app worked well for the most part. I would say all accommodation was good with the exception of one where the hotel room was very small and the staff not that helpful.
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.
Your route starts and ends in Benevello, nestling in the hazelnut-clad Alta Langa hills, from where you follow the limpid Tanaro River before climbing through a string of hamlets to your hotel in Fontanafredda, a renowned wine estate that was once owned by the first king of Italy! It's then on to La Morra, an atmospheric wine village known as the balcony of the Langhe for its stunning panorama over the surrounding rolling landscape. As you approach beautiful Monforte d'Alba, whose ochre-coloured houses seem to cling enchantingly to the hillside, you visit Barolo, home of the revered eponymous wine. This rich and fertile land produces some of Italy's finest food and wine, from robust Barolo and sweet Moscato to aromatic white truffles (exclusive to Alba), crunchy hazelnuts and tangy cheeses.
Experience superb walking through the spectacular Irish countryside near Dublin. The Wicklow Way is Ireland's oldest waymarked trail, pioneered by a famous hill walker, J.B Malone over 40 years ago and reveals some of Irelands finest views. Think Powerscourt Waterfall, Luggala, Loch Dan, Glenmalure Valley and historical Glendalough. The trail extends from Marlay Park in Dublin to Clonegal on the borders of Wicklow and Carlow covering a distance of approx 127 kilometres (79 miles). This 9-day trip covers the full Wicklow Way. The advantage of walking south to north means you will finish your walk in Dublin. For those a little shorter on time, there is a 7-day option that starts in Tinahely and takes you to Dublin.
The way winds through the Wicklow Mountains, one of Ireland's most spectacular upland areas. The Wicklow Way explores unspoilt trails, remote scenery, lakes, glacial valleys, forests and gentle farmland. Starting in southwest County Wicklow, the route passes through rural communities, old market towns and grand estates on its way to the bright lights of Dublin. Hiking near Dublin means a straightforward connection to the start of your trip, which is the small typical 'one street' village of Clonegal. An apt starting place for this walk into the remote and beautiful Wicklow Mountains. It is a route that remains mainly in the countryside making the short detours necessary to find a comfortable bed for the night.
A couple of fairly long but gentle days introduce you to the Newry Forest and over high points of Moylisha and Stookeen Hill to the 17th century village of Shillelagh and then on to the beautiful village of Tinahely. Quiet roads, forest trails and open mountainsides, with views back towards Clonegal and across the neighbouring counties of Carlow and Wexford, lead to Moyne and on to the most dramatic stages of the walk. A magnificent day's walk includes the spectacular Ow valley that passes below Wicklow's highest mountain, Lugnaquilla (925m), and along the 16km long glaciated Glenmalure Valley. This walk ends at the scattering of houses and splendid inn that make up Glenmalure hamlet. If climbing out of the Glenmalure Valley doesn't literally take your breath away then the fantastic views and the Glenmalure Waterfall probably will. Cross Mullacor Mountain and walk into Glendalough, 'the valley of two lakes' and site of a monastic settlement (from the 6th to the 13th century) for a little sightseeing. A short vehicle transfer gets you on the road to Oldbridge near Roundwood, which claims to be Ireland's highest village. The Penultimate day's walk is to the charming area around the village of Enniskerry. It is a mini classic with views of Lough Dan and Lough Tay. At the head of the valley is the Guinness family estate and later in the day enjoy views of Powerscourt Waterfall, the longest in the country. The last walk goes over Prince William's Seat for views across the city of Dublin, now in striking distance for some afternoon sightseeing and a lively evening in the city centre or one of its many fine restaurants.
Perigord is one of the largest and most picturesque areas in France. It is divided into two by the River Dordogne which founded the historic frontier between France and England during the Hundred Years War (1337-1453). Along its banks you'll find over a thousand castles steeped in legend and history, and witness to centuries of conquests and conflict. Today the rich and varied culture of this land is still here for you to discover. You will meander along paths that follow the twists and turns of the valley and you will climb through fields and shaded woodland to hilltop towns and fortified strongholds with impressive views.
The Maltese islands have played host to the Phoenicians, the Romans, the Knights of St John, Napoleanic and the British Empires whose influeces can be seen all over the island. 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 to tantalise your tastebuds.
Based just outside Valletta in St Julian's, this holiday is perfectly flexible, use your 7 day bus pass to reach the start of the walks and take the bus back at the end and you can explore the best that Malta has to offer. We have suggested a 7 day itinerary for you, however you can take it at your own pace and walk where and when you want each day. 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. Take time to enjoy nature at the Majjistral Nature Park and vist ancient tombs and relics along the way.
Being only 27km long and 14.5km wide you'll see plenty of breathtaking sea views in Malta, 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. 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.
This single centre holiday is based in a quiet location, either at the Holm Hotel or the Hotel Verdi and 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.
What a fabulous week we had walking in Andalucía, Spain in and around the National Park of Grazalema. Everything worked perfectly: from collection at the train station, great accommodation, transference of baggage and taxi collection between villages. Our hosts where helpful and the accommodation of an excellent standard. And then there was the walk - sublime! A diverse range of tracks through magnificent landscapes, over rocky mountains, across high plains, along paths lined with wild flowers taller than me, and beside rivers. As we were walking in June, there were no other walkers, so if you are planning to walk and socialise, pick a cooler time of year. Would do it all again in a heartbeat!
The Portuguese Coastal Way, connects Porto to the northern regions and became important in the 15th century. Before, it was mainly used by locals and those who disembarked in the ports.
The Camino along the coast is one of the most unique routes leading to the shrine. Along your way, you will be amazed by the kindness of the local people, the historical sites on route and the natural landscapes. Each step of the way is accompanied by a light sea breeze which invigorate the mind, challenging the body.
Each day there are moments to enjoy and appreciate, where the immensity of the ocean contrasts against the mountains that surround the Way, bringing emotions that will make you hold your breath. The kind-hearted local people, greet all walkers in a friendly way, trying to support each pilgrim in their mission to reach the next stage. The Coastal Way has a specific spirituality, experienced in a different manner by each pilgrim, which transforms each trip through nature into an emotional journey.
The mountains cross the valleys which reflect the brightness of the rivers and streams, reinvigorating each step of the way. Each day is a new idyllic scenery : admire the contrast between the tranquil beaches and the strong Atlantic waves. The sea breeze with a characteristic smell of seaweed that is drying on the sands, is the setting for a perfect painting.
You will feel The Santiago de Compostela devotion in each towns you will cross on the Coastal way. The unique landscapes attracts serenity. This trail is for those who are looking for new sensations, which go beyond the body and provide clarity to the mind. A journey that offers spiritual and cultural interests with breath-taking sceneries.
Porto, Arcade, Pontevedra, Caldas De Reis, Santiago De Compostela, Vila Do Conde, Esposende, Northern Portugal, Vila Praia De Ancora, Caminha, Baiona, Vigo, Camino De Santiago
Are you looking for something unique out of Istanbul? This seven-day West Black Sea Tour offers an amazing route, which will take you away from the stressful city environment.
Starting from amazing Sile, we head to Agva to discover its pure natural beauty. Then, we will drive east along the West Black Sea toward Akcakoca, enjoying the beautiful scenery on the way. We will visit the old city of Akcakoca and other local attractions, including Genoese Castle.
Next up in our destinations are Bolu, home to the beautiful Lake Abant, and then the town of Safranbolu, famed for Ottoman architecture. The last stop of our tour is Amasra, a beautiful Black Sea port town, where we will tour its local attractions before returning to Istanbul to end our trip.
