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.
Journey by foot through the little-known region of Tuscany between Pontremoli and the walled town of Lucca along the Via Francigena, the Italian Camino. The Via Francigena has experienced a recent revival and is now one of the most exciting pilgrimage trails in Europe. This section of the trail takes you through a little-known region of Tuscany. Starting in Pontremoli, in the heart of the Lunigiana region where the green hills are dotted with fine castles, you will descend to the sea in Versilia. Enjoy the coastal scenery as you walk along the sandy beaches and during the warmer months you can happily stop for a swim en route. Leaving the coast behind, you will head back toward the Tuscan hills. You can visit the fascinating artists' workshops in Pietrasanta, known as the Italian Athens, which rests at the foot of the Apuan Alps. The highlights continue as you reach the walled town of Lucca, one of the most captivating old town centres of Tuscany.
A stunning coastline of isolated beaches, unspoilt islands, tourist-free villages and historic sites is perfect for exploring on foot whilst island-hopping between the islands of Brac, Hvar, Korcula and Mljet. You'll also enjoy plenty of swimming opportunities throughout the week.
You start in Trogir, where the first Greek settlers landed, listed by UNESCO for its wealth of classical buildings such as St Lovro's church and the Venetian loggia. You then island hop along the Dalmatian Coast. First stop is Brac where you can enjoy views from the highest point in the Adriatic islands; next stop Hvar, the sunniest place in the country and where you will discover abandoned ancient hamlets, vineyards and lavender fields. On Korcula you'll discover the agricultural side of the island, along with the historic old town and a Nature Park. The National Park (entrance included) on Mljet is the oldest marine protected area in the Mediterranean. And finally there's the UNESCO-listed old town of Dubrovnik, where well-preserved ramparts surround a honeycomb of Renaissance churches, secret courtyards and sumptuous merchants' palaces.
We're extremely pleased with our choice of hotels too. Our 4 star hotel in Trogir looks over onto the old town, our 3 star hotel in Hvar is situated in a secluded pine grove and in Dubrovnik, we stay in a 3 star hotel on the Lapad peninsula.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Villa, Resort
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Dubrovnik, Trogir, Brac, Hvar, K
Dubrovnik, Trogir, Brac, Hvar, Korčula, Mljet National Park
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.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
12-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Gran Canaria, Los Hoyos , Calder
Gran Canaria, Los Hoyos , Caldera De Bandama, Barranco De Azuaje, Artenara, La Fortaleza, Roque Nublo
El Hierro is the least known, and most westerly, of the Canary Islands. In fact, it was the most westerly point of the 'old world'. El Hierro has escaped mass tourism and with a population of just over 6,500 it has a very different feel to the other Canarian islands. The Herrenos are fiercely proud of their island and are very welcoming towards visitors who come to appreciate the environment, such as walkers.
Like its neighbours, El Hierro was formed by volcanic activity along an offshoot of the mid-Atlantic ridge. There has not been an eruption on the island since the 18th century, but the cones of ash and old lava flows are a prominent feature of the island. The small central plateau, at 1000m or more, offers a mixture of volcanic scenery, pastures (cattle, sheep and goats provide fine cheeses), and the beautiful Canarian pine woodlands. To the north the lowland of El Golfo resembles a huge bite taken out of the island, and the impressive bordering escarpment, reaching 1500m in altitude, features in our walks. On the lower land of El Golfo vines, bananas and pineapples are grown. The islanders have preserved a number of local traditions and some of their sites are included in our routes. Overall, there is a surprisingly rich variety for such a small area!
The walking is designed to pass through the variety of landscapes on the island and to seek out the most spectacular views and a number of locations of cultural and historical significance to the islanders. No two days are the same. Your El Hierro experience begins in the small town of Valverde up on the plateau- the official capital of El Hierro. For early arrivals there are short walks locally to help you to get the feel of the island. From Valverde the route winds across the plateau, down to El Golfo and up again, then across to the far west of the island before heading back again across the plateau to descend and finish by the east coast.
You accommodation is a mix of simple and charming apartments and hostels, to 3 star hotels. All have restaurants either on site or very close by and so we have included half board for you on this holiday.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Hostel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
El Hierro, Mocanal , La Frontera
El Hierro, Mocanal , La Frontera , La Restinga, Las Playas, Tenerife
One of the first destinations in the world to be awarded the special certificate as a Biosphere Reserve, the landscape is unique and awe inspiring, with magnificent volcanic craters, stark lava fields displaying a myriad of different colours, and beaches, ranging from white sands to volcanic black dust.
The island is very easy to drive across, the journey from the northern tip of Orzola to the beaches of Papagayo in the south takes just over 1 hour drive, giving you plenty of opportunity to explore.
Some of the best food and wine in the Canaries can be found here, so make sure you try the local specialities, Canarian potatoes, mojo sauce, estofado stew and the delicious boquerones, (anchovy fillets), perhaps accompanied by a locally produced wine, the widely regarded Malvasi - again the result of the rich volcanic soil.
This self-guided, single centre holiday highlights the best of Lanzarote; from its pretty inland villages with verdant terraces and fields, to the varied coastline and beaches, the exquisite volcanic landscape, and the gently pervading influence of Cesar Manrique. Whatever you decide to do either taking a slow and relaxed tour of some of the best locations, or a varied itinerary of walking, swimming and cycling on La Graciosa, there is something for everyone here.
Your week is based at the Rural Finca La Florida in San Bartolome. Originally a family home, the 15 spacious rooms of this delightful hotel with its superb on site restaurant, provide the perfect base for your holiday. The hotel has everything you will need including a fabulous restaurant, swimming pool , sun terrace and even spa treatments for a bit of downtime!
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Home-stay, Hotel
Age Range
12-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Lanzarote, Playa Quemada, Calder
Lanzarote, Playa Quemada, Caldera Blanca, Soo , La Graciosa
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
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.
Had a wonderful week walking around Mont Blanc. Our group was friendly and kind, the scenery was like a “fairytale” and our accommodation / food was good
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort, Hut
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Chamonix, Mer De Glace, Les Cont
Chamonix, Mer De Glace, Les Contamines-Montjoie, Courmayeur, Val Veny, Val Ferret
Discover the Italian Dolomites in style on this six-day Premium walking and trekking adventure. Base yourself in scenic Cortina d’Ampezzo – the gateway to the Dolomites. Explore iconic landscapes like Cinque Torri, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the Ampezzo Valley and Val Gardena on easy to moderate hikes. Visit the WWI Open-Air Museum, and relax at historic mountain refuges. Indulge in a delicious fusion of Italian, Austrian and German cuisine (your leader will have all the best spots ready). With premium accommodation and seamless transfers, you can enjoy the comfort of unpacking once while experiencing the best of this stunning alpine region.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Hut
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cortina d'Ampezzo, Cortina D’Ampezzo
Cortina d'Ampezzo, Cortina D’Ampezzo
18% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Lace up your hiking boots and set your sights towards the spectacular Mediterranean horizon. This seven-day Premium walking and hiking trip on the Amalfi Coast features the best of the short hikes in the area, and is a nature-lover’s dream! Walk the crater rim of the Mount Vesuvius volcano, say Buongiorno to local farmers along the Pathway of the Gods, take in sweeping panoramic views from the Path of the Lemons, and catch a ferry to the glamorous island of Capri. Then, visit Pompeii to explore the preserved ruins and learn about the history of the area. Spend two nights in in a clifftop hotel, soak up sunsets, eat your weight in delicious Italian food (carbs, anyone?) and get active in one of the most beautiful parts of Italy, if not the world.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Villa
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Naples, Capri, Sentiero Degli De
Naples, Capri, Sentiero Degli Dei, Amalfi
18% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Morocco is home to diverse landscapes, rich culture, delicious cuisine and layered history. On this nine-day Premium hiking adventure, you can hike and trek through the Atlas Mountains, travel through semidesert landscapes to the Atlantic coastline in Essaouira, and stay in comfortable, traditional riads and hotels along the way. From mountain views to the wide, open ocean, you’ll hike and trek to experience some of the best bits of this amazing country with an expert local leader by your side. You’ll also take a cooking class with a local host and enjoy some homecooked meals within the community, giving you a unique insight into the heart of this country from the eyes of those who live here.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Marrakech, Oukaimden, Imlil, Essaouira
Marrakech, Oukaimden, Imlil, Essaouira
18% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Ascend Mount Ararat (5137m), considered to be the resting place of Noah's Ark. Agri Dag, or Ararat as it is known in the west, reaches a height of 5137m. Tucked away near the borders of Iran and Armenia, Turkey's highest mountain is considered to be the place where Noah's Ark came to rest after the Great Flood. Proof of that is rather elusive but trekking to the summit is more realistic. This spectacular, permanently glacier-capped mountain is a great one week challenge for the seasoned walker. Our fully supported trek with experienced, licensed mountain guides will ensure your adventure will be memorable. Weather permitting there are fabulous views towards Armenia, Georgia and the high Caucasus Mountains, home to Mt Elbrus (5642m).
Trekking and HikingClimbing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers