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.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hut
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Corsica, Vizzavona, Capanelle, C
Corsica, Vizzavona, Capanelle, Col De Verde, Cozzano, Basseta, Conca
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
"I am very satisfied with the service. I rented an eBike for a period of one week. The price was completely acceptable, the staff met me and gave me very good advice on which bike to rent according to my expectations.
La Pierre turned out to be a complete hit. The bike was excellent and very well maintained. The bike has good autonomy. Of course, the autonomy that the bike displays is nowhere near real, but I managed to get to San Remo and back in one day, which is over 120 kilometers. Keep in mind that I am a cyclist, so I cycled that day with very little assistance. Even with a higher level of assistance, the bike easily covered 60 kilometers in very strong wind and with very serious uphills.
If you want to visit the Cote d'Azur, this is the way to go. Just some of the places I visited are: Monaco, Antibes, Cannes, Village of Eze, Col d'Eze, Villefranche-sur-Mer..."
Self-drive or vehicle rental
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Hike the GR20 in Corsica, one of the most beautiful mountain treks in the world. Over 13 days, we hike 110mi (180km) in mountainous terrain, rising from the Mediterranean Sea to granite peaks topping 8,530ft (2,600m). Rather than take the classic north-to-south route, we head in the opposite direction, with the sun on our backs, a quieter trail, and the toughest legs at the end of the trip. You won’t be doing it alone either. The adventure is guided by an experienced International Mountain Leader with expert knowledge on the route and you’ll be part of a small group of like-minded hikers ready with words of encouragement.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Corsica, Conca, Vallone, Haut As
Corsica, Conca, Vallone, Haut Asco, Carrozzu, Ortu Di Piobbu, Calenzana, Bastia, Bavella, Cuscionu Plateau, Cozzano, Col De Verde, Vizzavona, Refuge Petra Piana, Refuge De Manganu
Just returned from the Loire Valley cycling trip with Explore and had a fantastic time. Our group leader, Erwin, was absolutely top notch—knowledgeable, fun, and great at fixing bikes on the fly (a very handy skill on a trip like this!). He was incredibly responsive to any issues, whether it was saddle woes or a hotel hiccup—he always did his best to sort it out quickly and with a smile.
The tour itself was stunning. The route took us through beautiful countryside, charming towns, and past jaw-dropping châteaux. There was also plenty of time in the afternoons and evenings to explore off-bike, enjoy a glass (or two) of local wine, and soak in the atmosphere.
We did hit a bit of a heat wave, but that’s just luck of the draw. Erwin made sure we took lots of water and shade breaks to keep the group comfortable, which was much appreciated.
The hotels were as expected—nothing fancy, nothing awful. Some rooms were quite warm due to the unusual heat, but fans were provided and that helped.
We were called the "guinea pig group," as this was Explore’s first time running this particular tour in quite a while. That said, it was an excellent experience, and with Erwin fine-tuning the itinerary along the way, I imagine it’ll be even better for the groups that follow.
Bicycle toursSightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Tours, Amboise, Chenonceaux, Blo
Tours, Amboise, Chenonceaux, Blois, Château De Chambord, Cheverny, St. Pierre-des-Corps
Head for 90 degrees North! Since the 16th century, the greatest expeditions have repeatedly attempted to reach the North Pole. This mythical geographic point inspires and attracts as much as it fascinates dreamers and conquerors, seeking out the other side of the world. Following in the wake of Frederick Cook, Robert Edwin Peary or Roald Amundsen, who were among the many who sought to achieve this elusive goal, you will be part of the chosen few who will attempt to reach this near-unattainable point, some 700 km from the nearest land. Swept by the winds and the currents, the ice floe is constantly drifting and your ship's Captain will manoeuvre carefully in an attempt to reach the northernmost point of our planet. From Spitsbergen, you will set sail north to the waters at the edge of the Earth, towards landscapes that continually change according to the ice, and the light at play in the skies above. Nature reigns supreme here, sheltering exceptional wildlife; polar bears, seals and a variety of whales call these glacial waters home and you will have a chance to spot them as you journey towards the North Pole - the Holy Grail of all polar explorers.
Be among the few people in the world - to go in search of the Geographic North Pole.
Perfect your photographic skills - learn from the eye and sound advice of British photo ambassador Ian Dawson
Enjoy the rugged and varied landscapes of Spitsbergen - jagged mountain peaks, gigantic glaciers and steep-sided cliffs that reach down to the sea
Incredible wildlife - polar bears, seals, whales and a prolific array of Arctic birdlife
Polar expeditions and cruise
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Fab tour loved every minute! Peter Myer made it the best thank you Explore! Aurora and Raffa were amazing at Hotel du Bois made us feel right at home! A little suggestion (not complaint) would have loved an English speaking channel on the tv.
Walking toursAdventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
16-79 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Chamonix, Mont Blanc, Les Praz
Chamonix, Mont Blanc, Les Praz, Cascades De Berard, Le Tour, Lac Blanc, Les Houches
Enjoy a ride with a free spirit and the wind in your hair, far from traffic and noisy towns on a continuous 240 km path dotted with monuments and exceptional landscapes. Between ports, villages, fields, vineyards and culinary specialities, this region is a place of tradition, seaside resorts and culture. Meet this friendly, natural, jovial, welcoming and food-loving region.
A trip along the canal, would not be complete without watching a boat pass through one of the numerous locks. Stop a moment to see how the water is transferred from one side of the other, raising the barge, and allowing it to pass through. Along your way experience the Mediterranean 'art de vivre' : enjoy a break under an olive tree or stop for lunch in a local restaurant to taste the local gastronomy and wines. Along the Canal du Midi, the combination of local products, peace, quiet and authenticity ensure an unforgettable journey in the heart of nature !
This self-drive tour in France offers a rich tapestry of experiences across its diverse regions. Start your journey in Paris as you drive into the enchanting Loire Valley, renowned for its Renaissance chateaux nestled among rolling vineyards. Immerse yourself in the valley's history and beauty, exploring towns like Tours, Amboise and Blois, each with its own architectural wonders and culinary delights. Then, continue westward to Normandy where medieval towns such as Bayeux and Rouen await with their Gothic cathedrals and poignant World War II sites. Discover the iconic Mont Saint-Michel rising majestically from the bay, a testament to medieval ingenuity and spiritual devotion. Later you will drive back to Paris, indulge in the city's artistic treasures at the Louvre, stroll along the Seine River and savor French cuisine in atmospheric bistros. Whether exploring the opulence of Versailles or cruising the Seine at sunset, each day offers new perspectives and unforgettable moments. All framed by the freedom and flexibility of your self-guided adventure through France's captivating landscapes.
Self-drive or vehicle rental
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Frolic in France and Monaco on this 14-day guided tour. In spectacular Saint-Tropez, a Local Expert will guide you along the coastal town’s ancient walls for stunning views of the sea below. See three architecture styles beautifully combine at the Aix-en-Provence Cathedral. Slide into the passenger’s seat of a vintage car for a drive through the countryside, then sip on wine at a countryside winery. Savour the 18th-century elegance of Château de Fonscolombe in the heart of Provence in a 3-night luxurious stay. In Paris, admire the glittering Eiffel Towel and the majestic Arc de Triomphe.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Villa
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Paris, Nice, French Riviera, Bor
Paris, Nice, French Riviera, Bordeaux, Saint Tropez, Aix En Provence, Nimes, Carcassonne
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.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Hut
Age Range
1-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Chamonix, Les Houches, Lac Blanc
Chamonix, Les Houches, Lac Blanc, Col Des Posettes
From Bastia to Calvi, discover the north coast with stunning landscapes, unspoilt beaches, heritage and rich tradition.
Discover the exceptional landscapes between sea and mountains, but also the authentic villages on the first leg of the new GT20 cycling route. Follow coastal routes, pedal from village to village, taking the time to stop for a drink in a cafe and chat with the locals.
Taste the Corsican unique flavours with its charcuterie: richly-marbled coppa, lonzu, prisuttu and figatellu. Fish and seafood are accented with local herbs including oregano, marjoram and mint. Honey and chestnuts are other staple island products. Other delights that should not be missed are the aromatic wines with their own strong identity from L'Ile-Rousse and Calvi.
Through the enchanting landscapes, this cycling route will introduce you to the authentic taste of Corsica.
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
12-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Corsica, Bastia, Centuri, Saint
Corsica, Bastia, Centuri, Saint Florent, Monticello, Calvi