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.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
13-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Canary Islands, Garachico, Parqu
Canary Islands, Garachico, Parque Rural Del Teno, Arenas Negras, Monte Del Agua, Vilaflor
Enjoy the beautiful Andalusia with our company and discover Seville, Cordoba,the White Villages, Marbella and Granada with a live guide. If you visit Spain, this is a MUST!
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
Enjoy a round trip tour to the city of the three cultures. Walk through the old and narrow streets accompanied by an official tour guide and have free time enough to explore the rest of the city on your own before departure time to Madrid at 4:30 pm.The experience begins from Madrid towards Toledo where the group will be received by our expert guide to starting the activity. You will be able to enjoy a panoramic view of the city from El Mirador del Valle where the first stop is programmed. After nice views, your guide will take you through the old narrow street of the city, immersing you in the history of Toledo.After a walking tour (about noon approx.), you will be able to enjoy your free time exploring the city on your own until your return time to Madrid.You can also add some extras to your visit including monuments admission, a visit to the Cathedral or even a jump in the longest urban zip-line in all Europe.Optional Activities:TOLEDO TOUR & BRACELET: Skip the line and visit up to seven of the most important monuments of Toledo on your own, including, Santo Tome's Church, Saint Mary Synagogue, Cristo de la Luz Mosque, Los Jesuitas Church, San Juan de Los Reyes Monastery, El Salvador Church and Doncellas Nobles College.TOLEDO TOUR & ZIP-LINE TICKET: Enjoy one jump from San Martin's Bridge in the longest urban zip-line in Europe. Available daily.TOLEDO TOUR & CATHEDRAL VISIT: Immerse in the history of the Gothic Cathedral of the city. Includes admission ticket and guide visit during one hour approximately. Available from Monday to Saturday.TOLEDO TOUR & CATHEDRAL VISIT + BRACELET : With this option available from Monday to Saturday, you will be able to visit the most important monuments of the city.
Enjoy a stroll through Toledo, bathed by the Tagus River, for a true journey through time. Accompanied by our on-site guide, we’ll take a bus to the Mirador del Valle to admire the city from a unique vantage point. We’ll visit an authentic damascene workshop and then explore its cobblestone streets on foot, uncovering the fascinating blend of cultures that make it an open-air museum.Our Toledo tour begins at the iconic Zocodover Square, the city’s heart since Moorish times. The square’s name, meaning “livestock market” in Arabic, has witnessed centuries of Toledan history. Admire its triangular layout and arcaded buildings, reminiscent of its commercial and social past.Leaving Zocodover behind, we’ll briefly pause at the Pozo de El Salvador, a remnant of the ancient mosque beneath the current church. Continuing through medieval alleys, we’ll reach the Pasadizo de Balaguer, a picturesque passageway that transports us to Toledo’s bygone eras. Next, we’ll marvel at the Casa Consistorial (City Hall), its imposing façade blending Herrerian and Baroque elements.We’ll proceed to Plaza del Ayuntamiento, also known as Plaza de la Catedral, where the city’s three great powers converge: political (City Hall), religious (Archbishop’s Palace), and judicial (Courthouse).The tour culminates at the majestic Gothic Cathedral of Toledo. From the exterior, we’ll admire its Gothic façade and towering spire dominating the city’s skyline. This cathedral, a masterpiece of Spanish Gothic architecture, stands as a testament to Toledo’s historical and religious significance.This walk immerses us in Toledo’s rich history-from its Moorish roots to its imperial splendor-offering a panoramic view of its unparalleled architectural and cultural heritage.After the guided portion, enjoy free time enough visiting up to seven of the most important monuments of Toledo on your own using your Tourist BraceletTOURIST BRACELETSanto Tome's Church,Saint Mary Synagogue,Cristo de la Luz Mosque,Los Jesuitas Church,San Juan de Los Reyes Monastery,El Salvador ChurchDoncellas Nobles College.Return to the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure for the journey back to Madrid.
Embark on a full-day guided tour to the UNESCO-listed cities of Segovia and Avila from Madrid aboard an air-conditioned bus. Step inside the Cathedral of Segovia with entrance tickets and a guide. Marvel at Avila's Walls and most emblematic monuments on a walking tour.Take a walking tour of Segovia, a city rich in historical monuments. See the magnificent Roman Aqueduct from the time of Emperor Augustus. Soak in its rich architectural heritage by following your guide to the Gothic-style Cathedral (admission not included) Then, cross theCanonjías neighborhooduntil you come to theAlcazar of Segovia, one of the most spectacular fortresses in all of Spain. Admiring its exterior, you will be able to discover its legends and glorious past.Finally, continue on to Avila, one of Spain’s oldest cities. Marvel at its well-preserved, castle-like walls dating from the 11th century. Enter the old quarters which house important Romanesque churches, Gothic palaces, and the city’s 12th-century Gothic cathedral. Walk by the exterior of the Avila Cathedral, admdire the Romanesque Basilica of San Vicente, and visit the central town square of Plaza Mayor. Take a short walk through the city’s old streets to the Convent of Saint Teresa.Optional: Choose this extra option and enjoy a delicious lunch in Segovia by adding at checkout.Gourmet Lunch: White beans soup, Roasted suckling pig, Segovian cake with ice cream, wine or mineral water.
Begin your full-day tour with a morning visit to the Monastery of El Escorial, built under the reign of powerful King Philip II as a residence for Spanish kings. See the Monastery and Pantheon of the Royal Family at this site that was declared a monument of Artistic and Historic Interest, and Mankind Heritage.Your tour includes the Monastery, the Cloister of the 4 Evangelists, the Palace of Philip II, the Pantheon of the Royal Family, the Chapterhouses, and the Basilica. The Valley of the Fallen is a memorial to those who died during the Spanish Civil War. Situated in a beautiful valley in the mountains of Guadarrama, this impressive work features a colossal cross standing over 150 meters high, and Basilica and Crypt excavated in the rock under the mountain. This tour includes admission to the Valley and a visit inside the Basilica.Then, continue for a short break at lunchtime in MadridLeaving Madrid at 3:00 pm towards the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range, we'll arrive at our final destination after about 90 minutes, where we'll enjoy a walking tour around the historic centre of Segovia. Here we'll learn all about the history of the most emblematic sights in the city, such as the famous Aqueduct.Having seen the majestic architecture of the exterior of the cathedral, and other significant monuments throughout the city we'll take a guided tour of the Segovia fortress. Here, in the old residence of the Castillian kings, we'll reveal interesting facts about the different monarchs. And with the guided tour over, you'll have free time in Segovia to wander around at your own pace, buy a souvenir or have lunch on your own.Then in the evening, the tour meets again about 6:15 pm head back to Madrid.
Embark on a full-day guided tour to the UNESCO-listed cities of Segovia and Avila from Madrid aboard an air-conditioned bus.Take a walking tour of Segovia, a city rich in historical monuments. See the magnificent Roman Aqueduct from the time of Emperor Augustus. Soak in its rich architectural heritage by following your guide to the Gothic-style Cathedral. Then, cross theCanonjías neighborhooduntil you come to theAlcazar of Segovia, one of the most spectacular fortresses in all of Spain. After admiring its exterior, step inside to discover its legends and glorious past. Time to get the lunch (white beans, Segovia style stew veal and dessert, drinks are not inlcuded).Finally, continue on to Avila, one of Spain’s oldest cities. Marvel at its well-preserved, castle-like walls dating from the 11th century. Enter the old quarters which house important Romanesque churches, Gothic palaces, and the city’s 12th-century Gothic cathedral. Walk by the exterior of the Avila Cathedral, admdire the Romanesque Basilica of San Vicente, and visit the central town square of Plaza Mayor. Take a short walk through the city’s old streets to the Convent of Saint Teresa.After exploring the rich history of both places with your guide, you will be returned to Madrid. Later that night, make your way to one of the most unique flamenco shows in the world, where you will enjoy a complimentary drink.
Enjoy a combined tour visiting Toledo in the morning and Segovia in the afternoon.Toledo Visit: Start with a panoramic view of Toledo from the Valley Viewpoint. Explore an authentic Damascene workshop and wander through cobblestone streets, discovering the fascinating mix of cultures that make Toledo an open-air museum. Stroll through Plaza de Zocodover, the city's lively heart, and admire the majestic exterior of the Gothic Cathedral, a masterpiece housing numerous artistic treasures.After the guided portion, enjoy free time for lunch on your own before returning to the meeting point.Segovia Experience: Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Segovia offers a guided tour of its historic center. Marvel at impressive monuments like the Roman Aqueduct, Casa de Los Picos, and the Gothic Cathedral. The tour culminates at the Alcázar, a former fortified residence of Spanish royalty.
Walk the entire length of one of the original Camino routes followed by pilgrims walking to Santiago. 'El Camino del Norte' originates from the 9th Century and was one of the original Camino routes for pilgrims walking to Santiago de Compostela. Sheltered from the rest of the Muslim dominated Iberian Peninsula by the Picos de Europa and Cordillera Cantabrica, it was considered the safest route for Christian pilgrims making their way to the tomb of St James. The full route starts in Irun near the French border and joins the French route at Arzua. This walk begins in the vibrant city of Bilbao with the iconic Guggenheim museum, before continuing along the dramatic coastline through Cantabria and the Asturias region. From Ribadeo, gateway to Galicia the route veers south passing through historic villages enroute to Santiago de Compostela. Enjoy a variety of landscapes and architecture, both ancient and modern, while staying in small hotels with local character. The dramatic coastline of the Bay of Biscay and mountain paths make the northern way both challenging and rewarding, whilst the quieter trails offer a great alternative to the more popular French route.
Walking toursSightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Bilbao, Santiago De Compostela
Bilbao, Santiago De Compostela, Bustio, Llanes, Ribadesella, Colunga, Villaviciosa, Gijón, Aviles, Soto Del Barco, Cadavedo, Luarca, Navia, Ribadeo, Mondonedo, Abadín, Vilalba, Reguela, Sobrado Dos Monxes, Arzúa, Liendo, O Pedrouzo, Noja, Galizano, Santander, Santillana Del Mar, Comillas, San Vicente De La Barquera