ATG Oxford Footloose 2016

ATG OXFORD

I N DEPEN DEN T

FOOTLOOSE

PHOTO: AMELIA WHINNEY

EUROPE

The besT way To see a counTry is on fooT!

Welcome to ATG Footloose Independent walking along continuous routes in the most beautiful and interesting areas of Europe

PHOTO: AMELIA WHINNEY

A note from the directors…

Our ideal holidays

Directors Kate and Christopher Whinney – on a Footloose holiday!

ATG trips are, unashamedly, our ideal holidays. They are trips that we, our family and friends take…They combine healthy exercise, whilst travelling through outstandingly beautiful and interesting areas, with comfortable accommodation, good food and wine, the company of a small group of likeminded travelling companions and, most important, everything organised so that we remain carefree and relaxed – to enjoy the best that every area has to offer.

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Carefully researched – and the best of everything As ‘the best way to see a country is on foot’ – that is how we like to travel. The route must be carefully researched to include the best paths with the most outstanding and picturesque views, the rarest flowers, birds etc., and nights spent at the most interesting and historic places en route.

The right amount of walking There must be enough walking, but not too much, with optional transportation available. There must be opportunities for sightseeing and relaxing, and when we walk on to the next place we expect to find our luggage has been ‘miraculously’ transported and is awaiting us in our rooms at the next hotel.

Accommodation We like to stay in the most comfortable and characteristic hotels available, and enjoy the delightful and inevitably varied accommodation (one night in an historic palace hotel, the next at a converted farm). Each evening we like to eat at restaurants serving the very best local cuisine and wines.

5181

All holidays in this brochure that do not include flights purchased through ATG are ABTOT protected by the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Ltd. Our ABTOT Trust number is 5181.

The air holidays and flights in this brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority.

Our ATOL number is 2618.

Varied interests We are very interested in every aspect of the route, especially wildflowers, birds and animals.

We like visiting places en route and very much enjoy art, architecture, history and prehistory, and want to understand local culture, and know about local traditions and cuisine; and whilst we don’t want to be bombarded with facts and figures, we would like there to be some source of information – a route book – to tell us about everything en route – if we want to know!

Relax and enjoy Above all we want everything to be taken care of so that we are free from the chore of organisation – and can devote all our time and energies to thoroughly enjoying every aspect of the trip – to return home revitalised and refreshed in body, mind and spirit.

Your type of holiday?

Our holidays have in common the same high quality of itinerary, interests, accommodation, service, support and attention to detail. The detailed information in this brochure will help you determine whether our trips are right for you. If you would like further information about the company or any of our trips, please do not hesitate to contact us.

We look forward to welcoming you…

Images: top left, background and main image on front cover: the Piano Grande, Unknown Umbria & Spoleto

Contents Spain Alto Teruel .................................................26 Hills of Girona ............................................28 Portugal Sintra & the Portuguese Coast ..................30 Italy Riviera & Portofino .....................................32 Cinque Terre ..............................................34 Montefeltro & Urbino.................................36 225 Miles to Rome (Introduction) ..............38 Tuscan Hills ................................................40 Ancient Volcanic Landscapes.....................42 Approach to Rome ....................................44 Tuscany & Siena .........................................46 Siena to Florence .......................................48

Scotland The Scottish Borders..................................12 France Classic Alsace ............................................14 Classic Dordogne ......................................16 Lot & Dordogne Valley ..............................18 Lozère & the Tarn Gorge............................20 Provence: Vaucluse & the Lubéron ............22

Provence: Vaucluse & the Lubéron Page 22

The Scottish Borders Page 12

Lot & Dordogne Valley Page 18

Italy Southern Tuscany.......................................50 Unknown Tuscany & Orvieto......................52 Roman Roads to Orvieto ...........................54 Southern Lakes ..........................................56 Umbria & Assisi ..........................................58 Unknown Umbria & Spoleto ......................60 Amalfi Coast ..............................................62 Gargano Peninsula.....................................64 Sicily: From the Centre to the Sea .............66

Hungary Hungary: the Danube Bend .......................24

Footloose: What ATG Offers .....................02 ATG Value: What’s Included?.....................03 Who goes on Footloose trips?...................04 How will you find your way? ......................06 ATG Route Managers ................................07 What sort of Hotels? ..................................08 What sort of Food & Wine? .......................09 Choosing a trip: Grades and Fitness .........10 Choosing a trip: World-Class Interests ......11

Classic Alsace Page 14

Riviera & Portofino Page 32

Cinque Terre Page 34

Freewheeling .............................................68 Walking the Talk.........................................70 What else does ATG offer? ........................71 Destination Airports...................................72 Extension Hotels ........................................73 Making a Booking......................................74 Booking Form ............................................75 Booking Conditions ...................................76

Tuscan Hills Page 40

Ancient Volcanic Landscapes Page 42

Siena to Florence Page 48

Montefeltro & Urbino Page 36

Scotland

Classic Dordogne Page 16

Umbria & Assisi Page 58

Oxford

London

Hungary: the Danube Bend Page 24

Lozère & the Tarn Gorge Page 20

Paris

France

Budapest

Hungary Hills of Girona Page 28

Unknown Umbria & Spoleto Page 60

Bologna Toulouse Pisa Marseille

Italy Alto Teruel Page 26

Spain

Rome

Barcelona

Gargano Peninsula Page 64

Naples

Lisbon

Portugal Sintra & the Portuguese Coast Page 30

Amalfi Coast Page 62

Tuscany & Siena Page 46

Southern Tuscany Page 50

Unknown Tuscany & Orvieto Page 52

Southern Lakes Page 56

Roman Roads to Orvieto Page 54

Sicily: From the Centre to the Sea Page 66

Approach to Rome Page 44

Brochure design by Greg Morahan Produced and edited by Kate Whinney

Footloose ATG footloose OXFO

BOOKLET ROUTE

RD

NU UNKNOWTO & SPOLE

MBRIA

...What ATG Offers

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER WHINNEY

Stay a while...

The Footloose concept caters for all ages, interests and budgets, and is almost infinitely adaptable. Keen walkers may be most interested in the walking (there are over 1,000 miles of Footloose routes across Europe).

Enthusiastic travellers may want to linger, taking time to discover the best that each area has to offer.

You can book extra nights anywhere along a route.

Independent walking holidays managed by ATG Route Managers in each area

• • •

Discover some of the most beautiful and interesting areas of Europe on foot* Routes selected for the quality of walking and for outstanding places of interest ATG Route Manager in the area will meet you before you set out, check through your chosen itinerary, provide you with any recent route updates, and can always be contacted by mobile phone

• • • •

ATG booklets, with easy to follow instructions and maps, guide you from place to place Carefully selected accommodation – often in historic towns and villages Luggage transported on route, to await you in your room at the next hotel With all the practicalities taken care of you are free to enjoy the area in your own time…

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER WHINNEY

* Various routes also have Freewheeling (cycling) itineraries. See pages 68-69.

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Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

ATG Value: What’s Included?

For your Independent trip to ‘happen’ the following arrangements will be in place After you have selected

Route Booklets

• •n •n

These booklets contain either measured walking or cycling routes (c.100 pages or more), with detailed maps and easyto-follow instructions relating to the measured route, GPS coordinates, town plans, historical and background notes and a comprehensive range of general information – from opening times of museums to notes on restaurants, and sustainable shopping information.

n Which route you would like

•n

Itinerary length (where there is a choice) Whether you would prefer Standard or Superior accommodation (see page 8) Your preferred start date. You can start on any day of the week within the dates indicated on each trip page – subject to availability

Our experienced Reservations Team will confirm your booking.

Hotel Accommodation All your hotel accommodation will have been confirmed.

This will comprise comfortable accommodation, easily accessible to walkers, with a choice of Standard (more moderately priced accommodation – indicated by a green dot ) or, where available, Superior hotels (shown with a red dot/text on the relevant trip pages ). In towns where both the Standard and Superior routes use the same hotel, this is indicated by a two-toned dot .

Route Booklets, ‘pocket’ A5 size, are regularly re-printed to ensure the information is up-to-date. The booklet is the key that gives you access to the very best the area has to offer. With it you will have a superb holiday. Without it you will – literally – be lost! But then you can call the Route Manager who is always available.

ATG footloose

OXFORD

ROUTE BOOKLET

CLASSIC DORDOGNE

ATG route books are 'the best in the business' – Daily Telegraph

ATG Route Manager based in the area

•n He or she will meet you at your first hotel, usually Classic Alsace: Hôtel Le Parc, Obernai

Choice and Value Accommodation is arranged on a Room Only (RO), Bed & Breakfast (B&B), or Half Board (HB) basis, as specified.

Where there are several restaurants nearby, staying in B&B accommodation allows you choice and flexibility, so you can choose evening meals to suit your taste and budget.

Where hotels are relatively remote we negotiate a HalfBoard (breakfast and evening meal included) arrangement for you.

between 9.00–9.30am on the morning after your arrival. (If you would like to meet the Route Manager at a different time please contact the office prior to departure).

•n They will re-confirm all the arrangements for your holiday in detail and provide you with any recent route updates.

•n They will move your luggage between overnight stops en route, and book restaurants for you, ensuring you eat at the places that are your first choice, and you are not disappointed by having to search elsewhere.

•n The Route Manager can be contacted by mobile Trip Information When we confirm your booking, we will send you electronically or by post:

•n •n

Confirmation invoice

•n

Practical information relating to your trip

•n

What-to-bring checklists

Travel advice regarding public transport and pre-booked taxis from the airport to the first hotel, etc.

phone at any time during your trip.

Bicycle hire Freewheeling trips include bicycle hire. Your Route Manager will deliver a high quality, serviced bike to you at your briefing, for use throughout the brochured itinerary.

‘‘

ATG never compromises on Quality to sell on price

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

’’

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Who goes on Footloose Trips?

Footloose trips are for everyone who is able to walk (or cycle – see pages 68-69), enjoys genuine travel experiences, and has at least 5 days and £430 ($670) to spare...

Will you enjoy a Footloose trip?

If you are active, have an inquiring mind and enjoy a wide spectrum of interests, you have a taste for (mild) adventure, and want to return from your trip feeling fitter and healthier – the answer is YES! Footloose will provide all this and more – glorious countryside, days filled with a range of interests – flowers, birds, historic villages, art and architecture. Add to this comfortable accommodation, with your luggage waiting for you in your room, good food and wine… and you will join the 99% of ATG travellers who rate their overall enjoyment as ‘excellent/good’.

Will you meet other walkers on the route?

Do you have to walk all the way?

Most people do, but if you feel like an easy day – just phone the Route Manager, and he or she will advise you on the local transport options available, which may include a lift to the next hotel.

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PHOTO: KATE WHINNEY

PHOTO: KATE WHINNEY

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER WHINNEY

Footloose routes are designed for no more than 6 people to start down a route each day. This prevents paths becoming eroded and the area degraded. It is therefore unlikely that you will meet more than 4 other ATG walkers during your holiday.

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

PHOTO: FRANCIS ORAVETZ

PHOTO: JIM SCOTT

People of all ages, from babies in backpacks to 80-year-olds, couples, small groups of friends, and families from all over the world enjoy Footloose trips...

What about bringing children?

Footloose is a popular holiday for parents with small, ‘portable’ children, or children over 10 – who can manage the distances and enjoy being entrusted with the Route Booklet – to find the way! The idea of a journey and the sense of achievement, together with the wide variety of interests everywhere en route, provide the recipe for a great family holiday.

How many days should you go for?

Itineraries vary from 5 to 8 days, with 8 days being the most popular.

5–6 day itineraries: These usually include 4 different hotels and 3 days of walking. It makes an excellent short break, can be extended, or included as part of a longer trip.

7–8 day itineraries: These include 4–6 different hotels, and one or two rest days at places of outstanding interest en route. The itineraries are designed as ideal week-long holidays. ...or link 3 trips together and walk for 22 days to Rome!

(See pages 38-45).

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER WHINNEY

What about bringing a group of friends?

Footloose is an excellent and popular way to enjoy a holiday with a group of friends. Some routes can accommodate groups of up to 10. Please contact the office for details.

When can you start?

You can start any day during months when the routes are open, subject to availability.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

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How will you find your way?

The ATG Route Booklet is the key to the success of a Footloose holiday. With it you will have an excellent holiday. Without it you will be – literally – lost!

You won’t get lost, but if you do... simply phone the Route Manager.

p

p

p

p

The booklet anticipates your needs…

The ATG Route Booklet for your chosen area has easy-to-follow instructions, maps, plans and other information that will guide you to discover the best that the area has to offer.

•n Walking route with measurements (measured with a surveyor’s wheel)

•n Marked maps of the route (facing the instructions) and GPS co-ordinates for those who wish to use satellite navigation

•n Town plans marked with walking route and location of hotels •n Historical notes and notes on geology, flora and fauna, regional cuisine, etc.

•n Places of interest (monuments and sights) with notes and opening/closing times

•n Restaurants, etc., with notes and price guides •n Shops to buy picnic lunches, etc. – includes a substantial shopping guide

•n Other information – locations and opening times for banks, post

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Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

PHOTO: JIM SCOTT

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER WHINNEY

PHOTO: EILEEN GATES

offices, pharmacies, etc.

ATG Route Managers What about the practicalities en route?

On each Footloose route there is an ATG Route Manager, who is there to take care of all the practicalities and ensure the success of your trip. Route Managers have all been ATGtrained, speak English and the language of the country fluently, and live in the local area.

‘You will be welcomed...’

Michela Thomann Route Manager, Dordogne

What will your Route Manager do?

n • Welcome you at your first hotel, usually between 9.00–9.30, the morning after your arrival. (If you would like to meet the Route Manager at a different time please contact the office prior to departure). n • Check through your chosen itinerary with you, and confirm all your arrangements n • Provide you with up-to-date information about events in the area, such as festivals or exhibitions n • Make reservations for you at restaurants en route, if required n • Advise you on local transport services, as required n • Answer any questions you may have n • Transport your luggage on the route n • Give you telephone numbers where they can be contacted 24 hours a day in the event of an emergency n • Contact you at the end of your trip for any feedback you may have n • Do everything possible to ensure that you derive maximum enjoyment from your holiday

BRIEFING AT FIRST HOTEL TO CONFIRM ALL ARRANGEMENTS

RECOMMENDED MARKETS TO BUY...

...PICNIC LUNCH

YOUR LUGGAGE TRANSPORTED ALONG THE ROUTE

ENJOY EACH AREA IN YOUR OWN TIME

A CHANCE FOR FEEDBACK AT THE END OF THE TRIP

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

7

What sort of Hotels?

All the hotels we use on Footloose routes are conveniently situated along the route...

On most routes you can choose Standard or Superior accommodation Superior accommodation includes upgraded hotels where available. The type of room booked varies according to the hotels’ room classifications. Further upgrades may be available at an additional cost – please enquire on booking. Where there is no Superior hotel available, you will be accommodated in the Standard hotel in a standard double/twin room (unless otherwise stated). Single travellers are accommodated in double rooms for single occupancy (DFS) for a modest supplemental charge.

On the trip pages the Standard and Superior options are clearly identified by coloured dots. Mixed-coloured dots indicate that a hotel is used for both options. For trips where there is no colour coding, there is only one standard of accommodation. ‘B&B' means breakfast is included. 'HB' means breakfast and dinner are included.

STANDARD OPTION

SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS 4* PALAZZO DRAGONI, SPOLETO: UMBRIA & SPOLETO (superior), NIGHTS 6 & 7

The Route Manager visits the hotels daily.

Converted mill with lovely garden and excellent restaurant

8

GORDES Les Bories B&B

NIGHTS 2 & 3

Provence: Vaucluse & the Lubéron

HHHHH Wonderful views, 2 pools, excellent restaurant

HB

HH

PORETA Borgo della Marmotta Agriturismo An authentic, luxurious farm resort

Siena to Florence DIEVOLE Villa Dievole B&B

LES EyzIES-DE-TAyAc Moulin de la Beune

NIGHT 2

Umbria & Assisi

NIGHT 2

6 HB / 7 B&B

NIGHTS 6 & 7

Classic Dordogne

HHHH

Villa in working wine estate with swimming pool

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

What sort of Food & Wine?

On Footloose, again, you have a choice...

Lunch

PHOTO: REBECCA COKER

The ATG Route Booklets and our ‘Sustainable Shopping Guides’ are filled with information about markets and shops in which to buy your lunch.

From seasonal fruits, local cheeses, cured hams and freshly baked breads, you are limited only by what you can carry in your pack!

Dinner In some locations, usually where there is no other restaurant within walking distance, dinner at the hotel's restaurant is included (indicated by HB – half-board).

Some restaurants are recommended because they have provided meals that have been regularly enjoyed by ATG clients; other restaurants are renowned internationally (e.g., within the Guide Michelin).

Restaurant Bookings Your Route Manager will be delighted to book restaurants for you if required, ensuring the places you eat at are...

• Your first choice • The highest standard • The best value

Wine

...and you are not disappointed by finding the restaurant full.

Several of the routes pass through well-known wineproducing regions, including the famous Chianti hills, with opportunities for wine tasting along the route.

PHOTO: KATE WHINNEY

If you are particularly interested in wine you may like to consider...

• Classic Alsace • Provence: Vaucluse & the Lubéron • Sintra & the Portuguese Coast • Tuscan Hills • Tuscany & Siena • Siena to Florence • Southern Tuscany • Ancient Volcanic Landscapes • Unknown Tuscany & Orvieto • Roman Roads to Orvieto • Southern Lakes • Umbria & Assisi

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

9

Choosing a Trip: Grades & Fitness Walk as much or as little as you like

Fitness Quiz: how fit are you?

What distinguishes all ATG walking trips is that you can walk as much or as little as you like. This is made possible because all ATG Footloose trips are managed by ATGtrained Route Managers dedicated to the specific route. The Route Manager lives in the area and transports your luggage each day, has a 5-seater vehicle – and is there to help...!

They are always on call and will meet you at the start of your trip, so you can discuss your requirements and the easier/tougher options in the route book.

To assess your level of fitness in relation to the various trips, you may find it helpful to complete this quiz: 5. After 15 minutes of fast 1. When you hurry/run to walking to catch the last answer the telephone are train, how long does it you... take to ‘get your breath a) Able to carry on a normal back’ and for your heart conversation. to stop pounding? b) Slightly out of breath, but able to speak normally. c) Pausing between phrases to ‘catch your breath’. d) You never hurry/run to answer the phone.

Grades Trips are allocated Grades 2-5 according to terrain and length of walk. The Fitness Quiz (right) may help you determine which Grade of trip is right for you.

2. Do you... a) Run, or bound upstairs. b) Walk quickly/easily upstairs. c) Walk slowly/steadily upstairs. d) Take the lift/elevator.

Grades '+’: A grade followed by a ‘+’ sign indicates that it is a slightly higher grade than – say 2, but not as tough as 3.

Grades 'range': Grades indicated as – say 2-3 – mean predominantly Grade 2 walks, with the option of Grade 3 walks on one or more days.

In the route books the easier/tougher options are clearly identified. In addition you always have the option to ‘walk as much or as little as you like’ (see above).

3. When travelling, without time constraints, in your nearest city or town do you...

•n Grade 2: Walking along well-established paths and

a) Walk whenever possible. b) Use public transport and walk. c) Drive, circling until you find a parking place close to your destination, then walk. d) Take a taxi door to door.

tracks. Occasional loose (gravel) surfaces, and open meadows. Ascents/descents up to 1 hour (Fitness Quiz score 20+)

•n Grade 3: Walking along a variety of paths, some stony in places, with ascents/descents of 1 to 2 hours (Fitness Quiz score 30+)

•n Grade 4: Walking along a variety of paths and surfaces,

4. Do you enjoy walking/ cycling...

occasionally challenging, with ascents/descents of 2-3 hours (Fitness Quiz score 40+)

a) More than 10 miles a day. b) 5–10 miles a day. c) 1–4 miles a day. d) You never walk unless you have to.

•n Grade 5: Challenging walking with a variety of terrain, some long days, and/or long ascents and descents (Fitness Quiz score 45+)

a) 1 minute. b) 2 minutes. c) 4 minutes. d) You would rather miss the last train than hurry to catch it.

6. Do you enjoy the challenge of walking/cycling (slowly) uphill... a) For 3 hours. b) For 2 hours. c) For 1 hour. d) You avoid walking uphill whenever possible.

7. After prolonged physical exertion (say a 10 mile walk, a 15 mile cycle ride, or the equivalent) do you feel... a) Ready to enjoy other/social activity. b) Ready for a nap. c) In need of a day or two to recover. d) Determined never to repeat the experience.

To Score: a) = 9 b) = 6 c) = 3 d) = 0 Your total score will give an indication of the trips that might suit you best (see Grades opposite).

Trips by Grade, Length, Mileage The Scottish Borders

L

M

L

M

3

8

59

5

30

Ancient Volcanic Landscapes

G

L

M

3 - 4s

8

90

Classic Alsace

2+ - 4

8

80

5

42

Approach to Rome

3s

8

68

Classic Dordogne

2 - 2+

8

74

5

38

Tuscany & Siena

2+

7

37

L

M

5

32 33

Lot & Dordogne Valley

2-3

8

61

Siena to Florence

3 - 3+

8

68

Lozère & the Tarn Gorge

2-4

8

91

5

35

Southern Tuscany

3

8

70

5

Provence: Vaucluse & the Lubéron

2-3

7

51

5

35

Unknown Tuscany & Orvieto

2-3

8

53

5

39

3

8

55

2

8

53

5

34

Alto Teruel

3-4

8

57

Hills of Girona

2-3

8

55

Hungary: the Danube Bend

Roman Roads to Orvieto Southern Lakes

2+ - 3

8

74

5

30

Umbria & Assisi

3

8

49

5

24

3-4

8

54

5

38

3

8

35

5

15

2-3

8

45

3 - 3+

8

51

6

37

Amalfi Coast

Cinque Terre

2-4

8

52

5

33

Gargano Peninsula

3

8

42

Montefeltro & Urbino

2-3

8

55

Sicily: From the Centre to the Sea

3-4

8

56

3s

8

72

s Grade 5 for full 225 miles G = Grade

L

Sintra & the Portuguese Coast Riviera & Portofino

Tuscan Hills

10

G

Unknown Umbria & Spoleto

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

= Trip length (days)

M = Total miles

World-Class Interests The benchmark against which assessments on this chart have been measured is ‘World Class’ – ‘as good as it gets’.

in recording a distillation of the actual views of the several thousand highly discerning people who travel with ATG each year – together with the feedback from ATG Tour Consultants. Information from clients and Tour Consultants is meticulously recorded in the ATG Quality system, and actioned daily, to ensure continual improvement.

With a range of travel information available on the internet – some of it accurate, some of it grossly misleading, there seems to be value

6 – Good 1 – Very Poor

7

8

7

5

7

7

N/A

7

7

8

7

7

6

7

6

8

N/A

9

8

Classic Dordogne

7/8

8

7

7

7

6

7

6

9

6

8

10

8

7

Hotels

Art

Historic

9

8

Geology

9

10

Wildlife

N/A

9

Birds

8

7/8

The Scottish Borders

Flowers

7

Classic Alsace

~

Cultural s

7 – Very Good 2 – Poor

Walking

8 – Excellent 3 – Disappointing

Scenery

9 – Outstanding 4 – Below Average Wine area

10 – World-Class 5 – Satisfactory OK

Restaurants

Rating:

The strength of this chart is that it represents a fairly wide consensus of opinion; its weakness is that assessments are made by trip, and on any trip every day will have different features (hotels for example) so the assessment represents an indication or summary.

Environment*

The purpose of this chart is not a marketing exercise! It is simply to share client feedback, so that expectations relate to reality.

Architecture

Who decides? You do!

Lot & Dordogne Valley

6/7

7

7

8

8

7

7

6

9

6

6

N/A

7

8

Lozère & the Tarn Gorge

6/9

7

6

10

9

10

9

7

10

6

7

N/A

N/A

8

Provence: Vaucluse & the Lubéron

7/8

8

10

8

8

7

6

5

7

6

7

N/A

6

7

Hungary: the Danube Bend

6

8

8

8

7

7

7

6

9

8

8

7

8

7

Alto Teruel

6

7

7

9

9

9

9

7

7

8

8

6

8

8

Hills of Girona

6

6

6

9

7

7

8

6

7

6

7

N/A

7

8

Sintra & the Portuguese Coast

7/8

8

9

7

6

7

6

5

8

6

8

7

9

6

Riviera & Portofino

7/8

7

8

8

8

7

8

6

6

6

7

N/A

7

7

Cinque Terre

6/8

7

8

10

8

7

8

5

7

6

7

N/A

8

6

Montefeltro & Urbino

6/7

7

6

8

7

8

8

7

8

6

9

10

9

8

Tuscan Hills

7

7

9

8

8

7

6

6

7

6

9

10

10

7

Ancient Volcanic Landscapes

6

7

8

9

8

7

7

7

8

6

9

6

8

8

6

7

6

7

7

6

6

5

7

6

9

10

10

8

Tuscany & Siena

8 9/ 9

8

9

8

8

8

7

6

6

6

10

10

10

7

Siena to Florence

6/8

8

10

9

8

7

7

7

6

6

7

10

10

7

Approach to Rome

Southern Tuscany

6/7

7

10

8

8

7

7

6

7

6

9

10

10

7

Unknown Tuscany & Orvieto

6/8

8

8

8

8

8

7

6

10

7

9

9

9

9

6

8

7

6

6

6

6

5

6

6

9

9

9

7

Southern Lakes

6

8

8

9

8

8

7

6

10

7

9

9

9

9

Umbria & Assisi

7 9/ 9

8

8

8

8

8

7

5

7

6

8

10

10

8

Unknown Umbria & Spoleto

7/9

6

6

10

9

10

8

7

8

7

7

8

8

10

Amalfi Coast

8

7

7

9

7

6

6

5

6

6

7

N/A

8

6

Gargano Peninsula

7

7

7

7

7

10

7

6

6

6

7

N/A

7

8

Sicily: From the Centre to the Sea

6

6

6

8

8

7

8

7

8

8

7

7

9

8

Roman Roads to Orvieto

~

Standard/Superior accommodation s Cultural: interaction with local people * Environment: success of operation within ATG standards of Conservation and Sustainable Development.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

11

AT G F O O T L O O S E

SCOTLAND

The Scottish Borders Up to 64.1 miles u 8 or 5 Days u

Grade 3 u Route open: April-September* u

Itinerary

(Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary)

Day 1 • Arrive in Kelso Arrive in the market town of Kelso, with its impressive abbey and nearby Floors Castle. Kelso sits at the confluence of the Tweed and Teviot Rivers.

Day 2 • Kelso to Jedburgh (Day 1 – Arrive Jedburgh) Walk southwest across the original stone bridge over the River Tweed, out of town onto the banks of the River Teviot, and along former railway tracks to an uphill stretch of Dere Street, before descending into Jedburgh. An easy walk between two historic Borders Abbey towns (13.4 miles, 6.5 hrs).

Day 3 • Jedburgh to Bedrule After an exploration of the Abbey and Mary Queen of Scots’ House, climb up steadily over farm and woodland tracks leading down past the hamlet of Bedrule and on to Billerwell Farm with fine views across the surrounding hillsides (7.4 miles, 4 hrs).

The Eildon Hills from Scott’s View

Features • Walk through the Scottish borders, an unspoilt landscape • Rich in history and folklore • Soft, rolling countryside beloved of Sir Walter Scott • Follow the banks of the winding rivers Teviot and Tweed through heather-clad hills

Day 6 (4) • Melrose to Selkirk Take a riverside walk before visiting Sir Walter Scott’s baronial mansion at Abbotsford. A steady long climb over paths and farm tracks and a section of ancient drove road lead down into Selkirk, where the courthouse used by Sir Walter Scott can be found near the town square (11.6 miles, 6 hrs).

• Local shops to explore, offering fine knitted cashmeres, pottery, ceramics, glassware, leatherware and fine arts

Day 7 • Selkirk to Galashiels A steady, steeper climb up through the Philiphaugh Estate leads to the Three Brethren cairns, with outstanding views over the surrounding countryside. The route descends to Yair Bridge, then rises again to the hills above Galashiels, leading around the perimeter of the town with views across the valley (10 miles, 4.5 hrs).

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

Day 8 (5) • Departure day

• Visit Dryburgh Abbey and Abbotsford House

12

Day 4 (2) • Jedburgh to Dryburgh After a short transfer by road, head north, following a stretch of Dere Street – the Roman Road between York and Scotland, along farm tracks and winding Tweed riverside paths to Dryburgh – an undulating walk, offering stunning views from the Roman road (10.1 miles, 5 hrs).

Day 5 (3) • Dryburgh to Melrose Walk up to the viewpoint, beloved of Sir Walter Scott, before descending to the Victorian viaduct at Leaderfoot, where three bridges converge. Then walk up to the viewpoints over the former Roman settlement at Trimontium, before following paths to the foot of the Eildon Hills. Walk around the northern flanks of the hills and down to Melrose, with its magnificent Abbey (7.5 miles, 4 hrs).

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

The Scottish Borders Trip Information

Accommodation

By train from London From London King's Cross there is an hourly service to Berwick-uponTweed (3 hrs 40 mins, ~£60-£75), from where there are regular buses to Kelso (50 mins, £7) and to Jedburgh (1 hr 20 mins, £10).

World-famous Scottish Whiskies and a huge choice of ales. Visiting local pubs on route is highly recommended!

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

Fitness: Grade 3 See page 10 for information on Grades

Riverside and hillside paths; farm, forest, and woodland tracks. Hill climbs range from 150m to 450m. Parts of the route can become muddy in wet weather.

Miles 0

Melrose

5

Day 4

Day 3 10

15

20

25

Day 6

Day 5 30

35

˚F ˚C 95 35

40

Metres 457 305 152.5 0

45

55

50

300 250

58 15

200

50 10

150

41

5

32

0

100 mm 150 100 50 0

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

HHH

Friendly, centrally located, family-run hotel

HHHH

18th century Georgian hotel with lovely gardens

B&B B&B B&B

GALASHIELS

Kingsknowes Hotel

HHH

Baronial mansion dating from 1869, now a family run hotel situated in 5 acres of carefully tended gardens

350

68 20

J

In wooded private estate on the banks of the River Tweed

Philipburn Country House

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

HHHH

SELKIRK

60

77 25

-5

Victorian farmhouse in the beautiful Rule Water valley

Townhouse Hotel

Galashiels

Day 7

Average daily temperature max min

86 30

..... 5-day route

Selkirk

Bedrule Harestanes

Day 2

HHHH

MELROSE

B&B

Dryburgh

Jedburgh

Kelso Feet 1500 1000 500 0

Elegant stone mansion; luxuriously appointed

Dryburgh Abbey Hotel

B&B

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

Terrain

HHHH

Billerwell Farm

B&B

Price ~£85 ~£95

NIGHT 4

To Kelso Jedburgh

You will, of course, come across the national dish, haggis – and many fine malt whiskies. Also premium quality ice cream and delicious home bakes.

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

Allerton House

ST BOSWELLS/DRYBURGH

Taxis From Edinburgh Edinburgh

NIGHT 5

The Scottish Borders is home to a wealth of local produce, particularly lamb and beef, game including venison, fish from the rivers Tweed and Teviot, and shellfish which is also exported to Europe.

On the square in centre of historic market town

BEDRULE

NIGHT 6

Restaurants, Food & Wine

HHH

JEDBURGH

NIGHT 7

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

Cross Keys Hotel

B&B

From Edinburgh airport there are regular bus and tram services to central Edinburgh (40 mins, £4.50), from where there are hourly train connections to Galashiels (£10, 50 mins). From Galashiels there are regular onward bus connections to Kelso and Jedburgh (~£6, 45 mins).

NIGHT 2

Edinburgh

NIGHT 3

Recommended Destination Airport

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 1

KELSO

Getting There

Finding Your Way

D

The accommodation on this route is equivalent to the 'superior' category 5-day itinerary: One night Jedburgh, Dryburgh, Melrose and Selkirk.

Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

13

AT G F O O T L O O S E

FRANCE : ALSACE

Classic Alsace Up to 79.2 miles u 8 or 5 Days u

Grade 2+ - 4 u Route open: April-October* u

Hills of the Vosges with forests and fine views

Features • Classic wine route – valleys filled with the finest vineyards in Alsace • Nights in a succession of famously picturesque villages • Hills of the Vosges with forests and fine views • High meadows of the Orbey Valley with pilgrim paths • Outstanding food and wine – everywhere on route • Easy access by train from the UK

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

14

Itinerary

(Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary)

Day 1 (1) • Arrive in Obernai – picturesque small town with narrow streets, ancient houses, and delightful main square, Place du Marché. Or, if you pre-extend in Obernai for an extra night: A circular walk through the wooded hills of the Vosges brings you to the picturesque convent of Mont Ste Odile, with panoramic views across the Rhine Valley (6.3 or 14.9 miles, 3 or 7.5 hrs).

Day 2 (2) • Barr to Itterswiller After exploring Obernai, and a short train ride to Barr, a centre of wine-making, quiet lanes lead through vineyards via the picturesque village of Mittelbergheim with its Renaissance houses; then continue up into the hills by gentle tracks and woodland paths to visit two dramatically situated ruined châteaux, Haut-Andlau & Spesbourg. And finally via the flower-filled village of Andlau, on to Itterswiller, set amongst vineyards in a small valley. Fine views (5.2 or 8.5 miles, 2.5 or 4 hours).

Day 3 (2) • Itterswiller to Dambach-la-Ville Paths through colourful villages, vineyards and across forested hills of the Vosges lead to the picturesque, walled village of Dambach-la-Ville, with its ancient houses, towers and vineyards (3.8 or 7.8 miles, 2 or 4 hrs).

Day 4 (3) • Dambach to St Hippolyte Paths through woods and vineyards lead along the edge of the hills, or via the landmark Castle of Koenigsbourg, to the delightful village of St Hippolyte, set amongst vineyards against the wooded hills (7.8 or 12.7 miles, 3.5 or 6 hrs).

Day 5 (4) • St Hippolyte to Riquewihr Paths through vineyards and forested hills lead to the town of Ribeauvillé, famous for its Traniber and Riesling wines. After exploring the town, continue through vineyards to the picturesque village of Riquewihr, with its perfectly preserved streets of ancient houses (9.6 or 13 miles, 5 or 6.5 hrs).

Day 6 • Riquewihr to Lapoutroie Paths and quiet lanes lead up through woods to a ridge, before descending to Lapoutroie. A longer (worthwhile!) walk continues around the edge of a wide ‘bowl’ – the Orbey Valley, noted for its scenery, and then descends to the village of Le Bonhomme before continuing to Lapoutroie (12.2 or 18.2 miles, 6.5 or 9.5 hrs).

Day 7 • Lapoutroie to Kaysersberg Paths through mountain pastures lead up to a medieval pilgrim shrine, before descending to the delightful small town of Kaysersberg set amongst renowned vineyards. A range of optional walks is included in the Route Booklet including an ascent to the high ridge of the Vosges (1,300m / 4,270ft), and a visit to the historic village of Turckheim (6.8, 10.3 or 19 miles, 3.5, 5 or 9 hrs).

Day 8 (5) • Departure day

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Classic Alsace Trip Information Recommended Destination Airports

Strasbourg • Basel-Mulhouse • Paris CDG

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Fitness: Grade 2+ - 4 See page 10 for information on Grades

Tracks through vineyards, forests, high hills and meadows. Quiet lanes through picturesque villages and pilgrimage routes.

Miles 0

Feet 3000 2000 1000 0

15

10

Barr Itterswiller Dambach

Miles 0

Day 3 5

Day 4 30

35

Day 6

Day 5 15

25

20

30

Kaysersberg Metres 915 610 305 0

Day 7 55

50

Barr

Itterswiller

Dambach-La-Ville 10 miles

Day 7 35

Kaysersberg Metres 915 610 305 0

65

60

70

75

St. Hippolyte

Short route

45

40

˚F ˚C 95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

86 30

Mont Sainte-Odile

5

45

40

Lapoutroie

Obernai Ottrott

0

Day 6

350

77 25

300

68 20

250

58 15

200

50 10

150

41

5

32

0

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Ribeauvillé

Riquewihr

Le Bonhomme

Lapoutroie

Kaysersberg

-5

Orbey Turckheim

..... 5-day route

Colmar

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

D

B&B

NIGHT 1

B&B

NIGHT 2

B&B

NIGHT 3

HB

NIGHT 4

HHH

Family-run ‘Relais du Silence’ surrounded by vineyards

HB

HHHH

Elegant, family run hotel (Michelin recommended) with pool and spa RIQUEWIHR

Hôtel Le Schoenenbourg

HHH

Modern, spacious hotel with heated outdoor pool LAPOUTROIE

Le Faudé

HHH

Charming, family-run hotel with lovely gardens, indoor pool and excellent cuisine

Superior rooms have a petit salon & bath

Long route Riquewihr

St Hippolyte

Day 4 10

Lapoutroie

Day 5 25

20

Riquewihr

Converted 18th century barn in traditional Alsatian setting

Hôtel Le Parc

KAYSERSBERG B&B

Day 3

5

Day 2

St Hippolyte

HH

Hostellerie Munsch

Hôtel les Remparts

HHH

Welcoming hotel in a very peaceful setting KAYSERSBERG

Le Chambard B&B

Day 2

Dambach

Friendly hotel, excellent views over the valley

ST HIPPOLYTE

NIGHT 7 & EXT.

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

HHH

Hôtel Le Vignoble

B&B

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

Charming hotel in lovely setting with gardens and pool, excellent cuisine

Hôtel Arnold

HB

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

NIGHT 4

First hotel ~€165

HHHH

ST HIPPOLYTE

NIGHT 7 & EXT.

Basel-Mulhouse airport

Le Parc Restaurant, Hôtel & Spa

DAMBACH-LA-VILLE

NIGHT 5

Taxis From To Price Strasbourg airport First hotel ~€ 46

The gastronomy of Alsace is renowned. The Superior route includes an evening meal in St Hippolyte at a Michelin recommended restaurant. Overall there are Guide Michelin restaurants at Obernai, Riquewihr and Kaysersberg. A wide range of grape varieties from Riesling to Pinot Noir produce distinguished wines of character and interest.

Itterswiller

Stylish; cosy atmosphere, in the heart of town

ITTERSWILLER

NIGHT 6

Trains/buses From To Price Strasbourg Obernai ~€ 7 Basel-Mulhouse Obernai ~€22

Restaurants, Food & Wine

Barr

HHH

OBERNAI

There are excellent public transport links to Obernai from Strasbourg airport (45 mins), Basel-Mulhouse airport (2–3 hrs) and Paris CDG (3 hrs).

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

Feet 3000 2000 1000 0

Hôtel Le Colombier B&B

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

Terrain

OBERNAI

Getting There

NIGHT 1

Finding Your Way

Accommodation

HHHH

Characterful, luxurious spa hotel with HH Michelin restaurant and pool

NUMBER OF NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED) 8 DAY • Standard: 2 / Superior: 2 5 DAY • Standard: 1 / Superior: 1

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

5-day itinerary: 1 night in Obernai, Dambach, St Hippolyte and Riquewihr Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay

anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

Cycling itinerary also available: See pages 68-69 for details.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

15

AT G F O O T L O O S E

FRANCE : DORDOGNE

Classic Dordogne u

Up to 74.5 miles

u

Grade 2 - 2+

8 or 5 Days

u

Route open: Apr-Jul; Sep-Oct*

(94.1 miles with extension)

u

Itinerary

(Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary)

Day 1 • Arrive in Sarlat-la-Canéda Time to explore this attractive market town, in the heart of Périgord Noir, following an ATG route through old Sarlat with its narrow medieval and Renaissance streets.

Day 2 • Sarlat-la-Canéda to Carsac-Aillac Walk from the valley up into low hills with fertile farmland, before descending to your hotel on an ancient Roman site beside the River Dordogne (9.6 miles, 5 hrs).

Day 3 • Carsac-Aillac to Domme (Day 1 – Arrive Domme) Paths lead up to a plateau with extensive views and to the ancient walled town of Domme, perched high on a cliff, enjoying panoramic views across the Dordogne Valley (8.4 or 10.2 miles, 4.5 or 5 hrs).

Day 4 (2) • Domme to Beynac After descending to the valley, paths lead along the river to the impressive castle of Castelnau (visit, with superb view from the terrace). After crossing the river and up to the delightful gardens of Marqueyssac, a quiet lane leads to the small village of Vézac, from where it is a 20 minute walk to the crag-top castle of Beynac, high above the river. There is the possibility of making this day’s journey by canoe from Cenac, below Domme, to Beynac (7.7 or 10.6 miles, 4 or 4.5 hrs).

Castles of honey-coloured stone

Features • Finest Dordogne scenery with spectacular views • The slow meandering river reflecting castles, flower-filled villages of honey-coloured stone, cliffs and wooded hills • Outstanding prehistoric sites, with habitations and superb cave paintings and relief carvings dating back 15–20,000+ years • Accommodation in picturesque traditional buildings • Regional cuisine of Périgord

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

16

Day 5 (3) • Beynac to Meyrals A choice of routes lead along the river, then across low hills to the village of Meyrals and a converted farm in a quiet valley. Optional routes via St Cyprien (fine church) or along the south side of the river via Château des Milandes, once home of Josephine Baker (10.5, 13.6 or 16.4 miles, 5.5–8.5 hrs).

Day 6 (4) • Meyrals to Les Eyzies Paths lead up into hills, then down to the Beune Valley (optional excursion to site of prehistoric settlement of Cap Blanc – relief carvings of bison and horses), before continuing through the picturesque village of Sireuil, and then on to Les Eyzies (8.1 or 10 miles, 4 or 5 hrs).

Day 7 • Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil Free day in Les Eyzies with optional walks to visit prehistoric sites (4–17.7 miles).

Day 8 (5) • Departure day, or...

Optional extension to Montignac: paths across wooded hills lead to the prehistoric site of Roque St Christophe, from where paths along the Vézère Valley lead to the small town of Montignac (11.5 or 19.6 miles, 6 or 10 hrs).

Taxi to Roque required for shorter option.

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Classic Dordogne Trip Information

On several days there are significantly longer options.

Miles 0

Domme

Carsac

Day 2 5

Day 3 10

15

Day 4 20

25 ˚F ˚C 104 40

30

35

40

45 Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

..... 5-day route

Day 5

Les Eyzies Meyrals Les Eyzies Metres 610 305 0 Day 6 Day 7

Beynac

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

B&B HB

NIGHT 2 NIGHT 2

B&B B&B HB

L’Esplanade

HHH

Excellent location with wonderful views and restaurant

HH

Centrally located, familyrun, riverside hotel

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

HB

Château de Monrecour

HHH

Friendly hotel in lovely setting, with pool, 2km beyond Beynac MEYRALS

HB

La Ferme Lamy

HHH

Tranquil, idyllic setting with pool Superior rooms are larger

LES EYZIES-DE-TAYAC

Moulin de La Beune

HH

Converted mill with lovely garden and excellent restaurant LES EYZIES-DE-TAYAC

Hôtel Les Glycines

HHHH

Former coaching inn set in beautiful gardens with pool MONTIGNAC

La Roseraie

HHH

Traditional, historic hotel with lovely gardens

350

86 30

41

DOMME

Hôtel du Château

6 HB / 7 B&B

Fitness: Grade 2 - 2+ See page 10 for information on Grades

Easy walking paths, with quiet lanes along river valleys and farm tracks over low hills.

Feet Sarlat 2000 1000 0

Converted farmhouse in idyllic setting with pool

BEYNAC

6 HB / 7 B&B

Price ~€130 ~€140 ~€330 ~€ 55 ~€ 26

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Terrain

HHH

OUTSIDE BEYNAC

To Sarlat/Domme Sarlat/Domme Sarlat/Domme Sarlat/Domme Domme

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays. Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

Hôtel La Villa Romaine

B&B

Taxis From Bergerac Brive-Vallée Bordeaux Souillac Sarlat

'Hotel de Charme' in quiet parkland setting, with pool

Ugraded rooms for Superior route

NIGHT 4

The region has a reputation for extremely fine food and produces a number of gastronomic specialities.

The cuisine of Périgord has long been famous for its pâtés, foie gras, confits, wild mushrooms, truffles, walnuts, goose, duck and pork. Other renowned local ingredients include goat’s cheese, chestnuts, superb vegetables, chicory, sorrel, plums, greengages and strawberries. There are a number of Michelin restaurants along the route.

Local wines from around Bergerac complement the cuisine, or there is Bordeaux and Cahors.

HHH

CARSAC

NIGHT 5

Restaurants, Food & Wine

Spacious, airy hotel with pool and garden

Le Relais du Touron

B&B

Trains/buses From To Price Bergerac Sarlat ~€13 Brive-la-Gaillarde Sarlat ~€10 Bordeaux Sarlat ~€27 From Paris Austerlitz there are direct trains to Souillac (4.5 hrs), then bus or taxi to Sarlat (40 mins).

HHH

CARSAC

NIGHTS 6 & 7

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

Hôtel Le Renoir

Superior rooms are larger

NIGHT 3

Bergerac • Brive-la-Vallée • Bordeaux From both Bergerac and Bordeaux there are direct trains to Sarlat (from Bergerac 1.5 hours, from Bordeaux 3 hours). From Brive-la-Vallée airport you can take a taxi to Souillac (20mins), then onward connecting bus to Sarlat (40mins). An onward taxi to Domme (5-day route) takes 20 minutes (~€26). Public transport options off the main lines are infrequent, therefore we recommend taking a taxi from the airport or main line station.

NIGHT 4

Recommended Destination Airports

NIGHTS 6 & 7

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 1

SARLAT-LA-CANÉDA

Getting There

EXTENSION

Finding Your Way

Accommodation

N

D

NUMBER OF NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED) 8 DAY • Standard: 3 / Superior: 4 5 DAY • Standard: 2 / Superior: 4

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

5-day itinerary: Domme to Les Eyzies-de-Tayac Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay

anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

Cycling itinerary also available: See pages 68-69 for details.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

17

AT G F O O T L O O S E

FRANCE : DORDOGNE

Lot & Dordogne Valley Up to 62.6 miles u 8 Days u

Grade 2 - 3 u Route open: Apr-Jul; Sep-Oct* u

Itinerary Day 1 • Arrive in Gramat A typical small market town, set on a vast limestone plateau – the Causse de Gramat, the largest in Quercy.

Day 2 • Gramat to Rocamadour From the small market town of Gramat, walk along grassy lanes to the ruins of the Moulin de Sault, then along the Gorge d’Alzou, with narrow paths and stream crossings to Rocamadour, with its picturesque cliff-side stone buildings (7.4 or 8.8 miles, 3.5 or 4.5 hrs).

Day 3 (std) • Free day in Rocamadour A centre for pilgrimage in the Middle Ages, retaining important ecclesiastical buildings – including the crypt of St Amadour.

Day 3 (sup) • Rocamadour to Lacave Follow the gorge to Lacave with its spectacular, extensive cave system (8.4 miles, 4 hrs).

Day 4 (std) • Rocamadour to Meyronne Walk across the causse de Gramat (a limestone plateau), rolling hills and farmland to Meyronne, on the banks of the Dordogne (7.4 or 8.4 miles, 4.5 hrs).

Day 4 (sup) • Lacave to Meyronne Follow farm tracks up to the village of Mayrinhac, then descend to Meyronne (8.9 or 9.6 miles, 4.5–5 hrs).

Finest Dordogne scenery with spectacular views

Features • Walk from Gramat to the riverside town of St Céré • Picturesque scenery of the causses; the Alzou Gorge; ravines and meadows of the Dordogne valley • Magnificently situated châteaux and honey-coloured villages, decked with flowers • Astonishing cave systems with magnificent concretions (Lacave & Padirac) • Some of the best and most interesting cuisine and wines in France

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

18

Day 5 • Meyronne to Carennac Paths lead through farmland and woods above the river before descending to Carennac, a village of traditional stone houses clustered around a medieval priory on the banks of the Dordogne (14.3 miles, 6.5 hrs).

Day 6 • Carennac to Loubressac Walk up from the river to Loubressac, a quintessential medieval village with a jumble of pointed tiled roofs, and views of the imposing Château de Castelnau. There is an optional longer route via the Gouffre de Padirac, a 300ft deep chasm, with a boat-ride through caves, along an underground river (7.4, 8.9 or 10 miles, 3.5–5 hrs).

Day 7 • Loubressac to St Céré Walk along paths overlooking the Gorge d’Autoir and the causses to the Château de Montal and St Céré, a bustling medieval market town (7.4, 10.1 or 11.8 miles, 3.5–6 hrs).

Day 8 • Departure day

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Lot & Dordogne Valley Trip Information

Accommodation

Getting There

This is considered the foremost gastronomic area of France – on this route you are truly walking to eat!

Truffles and foie gras are specialities; other famous dishes derive from traditional peasant cooking – cassoulet (a thick bean, duck and pork stew) is one notable example.

Taxis From To Price Brive-Vallée airport Gramat ~€ 90 Brive-la-Gaillarde stn Gramat ~€100 Toulouse airport Gramat ~€310 Rodez airport Gramat ~€160 Limoges airport Gramat ~€295

The region grows its own wines – the fine, dark reds from Cahors; reds and whites from Bergerac (including the sweet white Mobazillac) being perhaps the best known. There are some very drinkable Côtes de Bergerac, much like the neighbouring Bordeaux, though far less famous.

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

5

10

15

Carennac

Day 5 20

Carennac Meyronne Lacave

Loubressac Gouffre de Padirac

Rocamadour Gramat

St Céré

Day 7 35

30

St Céré Metres 610 305 0

B&B

NIGHT 1 NIGHTS 2 & 3

B&B HB

HHH

Excellent restaurant and panoramic views

LACAVE HB

Le Pont de l’Ouysse

HHH

Country house with pool and Guide Michelin restaurant

MEYRONNE

La Terrasse

HHH

Château hotel with valley views and pool Superior rooms are suites

CARENNAC

Fénelon

HH

Riverside hotel with traditional restaurant and pool

LOUBRESSAC

Lou Cantou

HH

Small pension in the centre of a pretty village

350 300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

D

B&B

NIGHT 6

HHH

Modern hotel with outdoor pool and valley views

SAINT CÉRÉ

Les Trois Soleils de Montal

HHH

Modern hotel with pool and Guide Michelin restaurant Upgraded rooms for Superior route

Hours 400

86 30

41

Relais de Castelnau

40

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

15 miles

Loubressac

Day 6 25

˚F ˚C 104 40

10

Le Beau Site

B&B

Rocamadour Meyronne Feet Gramat 2000 1000 0 Day 2 Day 4 Miles 0

5

HH

ROCAMADOUR

NIGHT 7

Fitness: Grade 2 - 3 See page 10 for information on Grades

Quiet country lanes, gravel tracks, woodland and mule paths, and the occasional steep, rocky path in the Gorge d’Alzou.

0

Le Terminus des Pèlerins

LOUBRESSAC

Terrain

SHORTER (STANDARD) ROUTE

Charming, family-run hotel with pool

Family-run hotel in town centre

B&B

Restaurants, Food & Wine

HH

ROCAMADOUR

B&B

Trains From To Price Brive-la-Gaillarde Gramat ~€11 Toulouse Gramat ~€32 Rodez Gramat ~€19 Limoges Gramat ~€26 From Paris Austerlitz there are TGV trains to Brive-la-Gaillarde (4.5 hrs, ~€80), with onward connections to Gramat (1 hr).

Relais des Gourmands

B&B

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

NIGHT 2

Trains to Gramat from Brive-laGaillarde (1 hr), from the centre of Toulouse (3 hrs), Rodez (1 hr 40 mins) and Limoges (2.5 hrs).

NIGHT 3

Brive-la-Vallée • Toulouse • Rodez • Limoges

NIGHT 4

Recommended Destination Airports

NIGHT 5

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

GRAMAT

NIGHT 6

Finding Your Way

NUMBER OF NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED) Standard: 0 / Superior: 2

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

Cycling itinerary also available: See pages 68-69 for details.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

19

AT G F O O T L O O S E

FRANCE : CÉVENNES

Lozère & the Tarn Gorge Up to 91 miles u 8 or 5 Days u

Grade 2 - 4 u Route open: May-Jun; Sep* u

A range of delightful walks, from easy to challenging

Features • Wonderful walking with spectacular views • Dramatic gorges and pasture-covered plateaux • Wide expanses of high flower-filled meadows • Cave systems with impressive concretions • Profusion of birds including raptors • Choice of a range of walks, from easy to challenging

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

20

Itinerary

(Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary)

Day 1 (1) • Arrive in Millau Optional walk along the river Tarn and into the Causse Noir, renowned for its curious rock formations (Up to 10 miles, 1-5 hrs).

Day 2 (2) • Walks from Meyrueis After meeting the ATG Route Manager, you travel by road (45 mins) up the Jonte Gorge to your hotel at Meyrueis, set in a wide valley of meadows, high hill pastures and woods at the head of the Gorge. After settling into your hotel, there is a range of easy to challenging ATG walks to explore the area.

Walks for days 2 & 3 range from 9.8-15 miles (5-7.5 hours).

Day 3 • Walks from Meyrueis A further choice of walks takes you along the top of the Jonte Gorge through woods and meadows, or towards high hills of the Cévennes National Park.

Day 4 (3) • Meyrueis to Les Douzes Paths lead up onto the Causse de Mejean to the spectacular cavern of Aven Armand (one of the finest caves in France), continuing across the open plateau, abundant with flowers in spring, before descending to Les Douzes (10.5 or 11.2 miles, 5.5 hrs).

Day 5 (4) • Les Douzes to Le Rozier Woodland paths lead through typical caussenarde hamlets before descending through dramatic scenery at the junction of the Tarn and Jonte Gorges (9.2 miles, 5 hrs).

Days 6 & 7 • Exploring the Tarn Gorge Day 6 Standard: Walk to explore the dramatic scenery of the Tarn Gorge (7.3-15 miles, 3.5-7.5 hrs).

Day 6 Superior: A walk through spectacular scenery of the Tarn Gorge brings you to the magnificently situated and splendid Château de la Caze – where you stay (up to 21 miles). Note: the Route Manager will discuss options for shortening the walks.

Day 7 Standard: Additional walks to explore the Tarn and Jonte Gorges, as well as paths leading up to the adjacent high Causse de Mejean and Causse Noir, offering spectacular views (14.2 or 16.4 miles, 7 or 8 hrs).

Day 7 Superior: Free day at Château de la Caze, with a choice of walks to explore more of the Tarn Gorge, as well as the surrounding area (6.2-11.4 miles, 3-5 hrs).

Day 8 (5) • Departure day

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Lozère & the Tarn Gorge Trip Information

Accommodation

Finding Your Way B&B

NIGHT 1

Mercure Millau

HHHH

Located in the heart of the historic centre of Millau

Recommended Destination Airports

Restaurants, Food & Wine

Trains From Paris there are TGV trains to Nimes and Montpellier (3-3.5 hrs).

There are train/bus connections to Millau from Rodez (1.5 hrs), Montpellier (1.5-3 hrs), and Nimes (2-2.5hrs). Train/bus costs range from ~€13-~€30 depending on route.

Regional specialities: Lamb from the causses; venison and wild mushrooms; trout from streams and a wide variety of cheeses including the famous Roquefort. Cuisine ranges from country cooking of a high standard to regional style with robust local dishes using aromatic herbs.

Taxis From To Rodez airport First hotel Montpellier airport First hotel Nimes airport First hotel

Traditional inn in the heart of the village, with outdoor pool

Château d’Ayres

HHHH

12th century castle located in a private park

LES DOUZES

Price ~€100 ~€150 ~€210

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

Good red and white wines from the Hérault Valley and Languedoc region, such as Faugéres and

HH

MEYRUEIS

Hôtel de La Jonte HB

Rodez • Montpellier • Nimes

Grand Hôtel de France

HH

Friendly, family-run hotel

LE ROZIER - PEYRELEAU

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

Hôtel Doussière HB

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

MEYRUEIS B&B

Getting There

HB

NIGHTS 2 & 3

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

NIGHTS 2 & 3

LOZÈRE AND THE TARN GORGE

St Chinian; noteworthy wines from the Aveyron, including Marcillac.

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 4

ROUTE BOOKLET

NIGHTS 5-7

ATG footloose

OXFORD

MILLAU

HH

Riverside hotel with lovely gardens

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Sainte-Enimie GORGES DU TARN

Le Rozier

Les Douzes GORGES DE LA JONTE

0

5

10 miles

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

Meyrueis Millau

˚F ˚C 104 40

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

B&B

HHHH

Located in the heart of the Gorges du Tarn

OUTSIDE

SAINTE-ENIMIE

Château de la Caze

HHHH

15th century château with swimming pool and terrace

NUMBER OF NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED) 8 DAY • Standard: 4 / Superior: 5 5 DAY • Standard: 2 / Superior: 2

350

86 30

41

Grand Hotel de la Muse

HB

PHOTO: DEBORAH BUTLER

The area comprises limestone hills and plateaux of between 1,000ft / 300m and 3,000ft /1,220m, intersected by deep gorges.

Walking along farm and forest tracks, open grassy meadows, beside rivers and along quiet lanes and footpaths with occasional stony/rocky sections. There is an immense range of daily walking options on this route – from easy to moderate to challenging.

NIGHTS 6 & 7

Fitness: Grade 2 - 4 See page 10 for information on Grades

NIGHT 5

LE ROZIER - PEYRELEAU

Terrain

D

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

5-day itinerary: Millau to Le Rozier - Peyreleau (one night in each hotel) Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

21

AT G F O O T L O O S E

FRANCE : PROVENCE

Provence: Vaucluse & the Lubéron Up to 51.3 miles u 7 or 5 Days u

Grade 2 - 3 u Route open: Apr-Jun; Sep-Oct* u

Itinerary

(Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary)

Day 1 • Arrive in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse Opportunity to visit the village where the Italian poet Petrarch lived from 1337–1353 and composed 366 poems to ‘Laura’; the small Romanesque church; and the world-famous resurgent spring that flows at a rate of 2,000–33,000 gallons per second.

Day 2 • Fontaine to Gordes Paths lead up through a dry limestone gorge, onto the plateau of the Vaucluse, through pine woods and stonewalled meadows, before descending to the 12th century Cistercian Abbey of Sénanque. Set in a quiet valley amongst lavender fields, the abbey retains all its original 12th century buildings. A path then leads up to Gordes (10 miles, 5 hrs). There is a more direct, less demanding option for those who would prefer a gentler start (6.2 miles, 3.5 hrs).

Day 3 • Free day in Gordes (Day 1 – Arrive Gordes)

Explore the picturesque village of Gordes with old houses rising in tiers from the valley, and its Renaissance Château with very fine chimneypiece. Optional walk to a village of restored bories (stone huts), grouped around a communal bread oven (5.3 miles, 2.5 hrs).

Day 4 (2) • Gordes to Roussillon Walk down through the old streets of Gordes and through olive groves, to a valley with fields of wheat, lavender and poppies (!) to Roussillon. Time to explore the village set high on an outcrop of ochre rock – its many different colours evident in houses along the picturesque village streets (6.9 miles, 3.5 hrs).

12th Century Cistercian Abbey of Sénanque

Features • Walk from Fontaine-de-Vaucluse to Lourmarin • Discover idyllic Provençal country, as featured in ‘Jean de Florette’ • Countless images that inspired Van Gogh, Cézanne and the impressionists • Picturesque villages such as Gordes with its built-in terraces; Fontaine-de-Vaucluse with Europe’s largest resurgent spring; and Roussillon with its ochre quarries • The Lubéron, with its rows of lavender, notable vineyards and flower-filled meadows * For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

22

Day 5 (3) • Roussillon to Bonnieux Follow paths and farm tracks down to the valley to a Roman bridge (built 3BC), then through meadows and olive groves, up towards the col between the Grand Lubéron and Petit Lubéron ‘mountains’, and the village of Bonnieux, its ramparts still visible, its houses rising on terraces to its 12C parish church surrounded by cedar trees (8.6 miles, 4.5 hrs).

Day 6 (4) • Bonnieux to Lourmarin Paths lead up from the valley through woods and high meadows to the ridge of the Grand Lubéron (2,950 ft) with views across the Vaucluse to the white limestone crest of Mont Ventoux and across southern Provence to the sea. From here an optional route diverts to the panoramic summit of Mourre Negre (3,685 ft), highest point of the Lubéron. Both routes descend through maquis scrub to the village of Vaugines (location for filming Jean de Florette) before following a wide farm track towards Lourmarin.

Opportunity to explore the village, dominated by its interesting château, set high on a rock bluff: (12.6 miles/7 hrs – or up to 20.2 miles/10 hrs for diversion).

Day 7 (5) • Departure day

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Provence: Vaucluse & the Lubéron Trip Information Accommodation Getting There

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Terrain

Fitness: Grade 2 - 3 See page 10 for information on Grades

Paths over hills are stony and dry underfoot. In the valleys there are wood and farmland tracks, open country paths, and occasional, quiet asphalt lanes.

Fontaine-de-Vaucluse Feet 3000 2000 1000 0

Day 3

Day 2

Miles 0

Gordes

Gordes

5

15

10

Roussillon

Day 4

Day 5

20

Fontainede-Vaucluse

35

30

B&B B&B B&B

NIGHTS 2 & 3 NIGHTS 2 & 3

Wonderful views, 2 pools, excellent restaurant

HB

HHH

Comfortable hotel in village centre

BONNIEUX

Hôtel Cesar Panoramique

HH

Wonderful views over the Lubéron BONNIEUX

Domaine de Capelongue

HHHH

Luxury Hôtel de Charme with pool and views of the Lubéron 1 MILE FROM LOURMARIN

Mas de Guilles

HHH

Restored country manor house with pool and gastronomic restaurant ARLES

Hôtel du Cloitre

HHH

Historic residence in the heart of the old part of town AIX-EN-PROVENCE

Hôtel des Augustins

HHH

Centrally located, within a former convent

40 Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

Gordes

Day 6

25

˚F ˚C 104 40

Lourmarin Metres 915 610 305 0

Bonnieux

HHHHH

Le Clos de la Glycine

B&B

Price ~€150 ~€150 ~€ 70 ~€ 70 ~€ 15 ~€ 40

Converted farmhouse with terrace and pool

Les Bories

B&B

There are some delicious wines from the area: crisp, dry whites, some excellent rosés, and the Lubéron produces smoky, full-bodied reds.

To Fontaine Gordes Fontaine Gordes Fontaine Gordes

HHH

GORDES

HB

Taxis From Marseille Marseille Avignon Avignon Isle sur la Sorgue Cavaillon

Le Mas de Gordes

B&B

This is an ideal trip for gourmets!

Regional specialities include bouillabaisse (fish stew) and dishes à la Provençale (with tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, aubergine, etc.). There are a number of Michelin restaurants along the route.

Elegantly converted mill in lovely setting, with pool

1 MILE FROM GORDES

B&B

Restaurants, Food & Wine

NIGHT 4

Trains From To Price Avignon L’Isle sur la Sorgue ~€ 8 Marseille L’Isle sur la Sorgue ~€16

HHH

ROUSSILLON

NIGHT 5

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

Hôtel du Poète

Upgraded rooms for Superior route

NIGHT 5

From Marseille and Avignon central stations (and Avignon TGV station) there are regular trains to L'Isle sur la Sorgue, from where we recommend you take a taxi to Fontaine de Vaucluse (15 mins, ~€15). From Marseille airport there are quick and easy connections to the central train station. From Avignon airport we recommend taking a taxi all the way to Fontaine de Vaucluse (30 mins, ~€70), as connections to Avignon are infrequent. 5-day route: Take a train to Cavaillon, then taxi (~€40) to Gordes.

NIGHT 6

Marseille • Avignon

EXTENSION

Recommended Destination Airports

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 1

FONTAINE-DE-VAUCLUSE

EXTENSION

Finding Your Way

350

NUMBER OF NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED) 7 DAY • Standard: 2 / Superior: 2 5 DAY • Standard: 2 / Superior: 2

Roussillon

Bonnieux

Lourmarin 0

..... 5-day route

5

10 miles

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

41

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

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TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

D

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

5-day itinerary: Gordes to Lourmarin (one night in each hotel) Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

Cycling itinerary also available: See pages 68-69 for details.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

23

AT G F O O T L O O S E

HUNGARY : DANUBE BEND

Hungary: the Danube Bend Up to 54.6 miles u 8 Days u

Grade 3 u Route open: May-October* u

Itinerary Day 1 • Arrive in Szentendre Arrive in the picturesque town of Szentendre, which for decades has attracted artists and artisans – and with them workshops, galleries, exhibitions, and museums.

Day 2 • Szentendre Visit the nearby Open-Air Ethnographic Museum (Skanzen), which contains about 400 houses in a pastoral setting, representing the various architectural styles of Hungary’s regions. Afternoon free to enjoy Szentendre and its many attractions.

Day 3 • Szentendre to Dobogóko Tracks lead up through forest and meadows to the spectacular scenery of the Pilis Mountains, and the village of Dobogóko (645m / 2,112ft) – site of the legendary ‘pulsating stone’. A long tradition of people claiming to feel a pulsating sensation coming from the ground, has led to Dobogóko being referred to as the ‘Earth Heart Chakra’ (12.5 miles, 6 hours).

Day 4 • Dobogóko to Visegrád Walk down towards the Danube Valley following gently descending paths through wooded valleys to the picturesquely set, ancient town of Visegrád, capital of Hungary during the Middle Ages (12.2 or 15.7 miles, 6.5 or 8 hrs).

Day 5 • Visegrád Free day in Visegrád, with opportunities to explore the town’s highlights: Castle Hill, the Royal Palace, Solomon Tower and the medieval citadel. Optional circular walk (5.9 miles, 3 hrs).

Wide views over the majestic Danube River

Features • Delightful Hungarian people, renowned for their friendliness and hospitality • Explore the mountains, hills and small towns of the famous Danube Bend • Visits to charming Szentendre, royal Visegrád, and the great basilica of Esztergom • A fascinating insight into Hungarian history, culture and gastronomy • Extend your trip with a Danube cruise to visit Budapest

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

24

Day 6 • Visegrad to Búbánatvölgy After crossing the Danube by ferry (10 minutes), follow paths through the southern Börzsöny Hills, rich in ‘romantic’ scenery of volcanic origin. Walk up to Hegyestet (Alt. 482m / 1,580ft), from where there are wonderful views.

Descend and follow paths close to the Danube, before re-crossing the river and climbing up to a pilgrimage site (more amazing views!), before descending to Búbánatvölgy (12.3 or 13.7 miles, 6 or 7 hrs).

Day 7 • Búbánatvölgy to Esztergom Leave the valley, following a road past a succession of small picturesque fishing lakes. A broad path then leads up, from where there are spectacular views over Esztergom, dominated by the town’s magnificent basilica (6.8 miles, 3.5 hrs).

Day 8 • Departure day

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Fitness: Grade 3 See page 10 for information on Grades

Established forest and mountain paths, meadows, wooded valleys, stream and river paths.

Miles 0

0

5

Day 4

Day 3 5

15

10

10 miles

River Danube Búbánatvölgy Esztergom

Nagymaros Visegrád

Szentendre

Budapest

B&B

Walden Hotel

Day 7

Day 6

20

25

35

30

˚F ˚C 104 40

40

45

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

Metres 915 610 305 0

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

41

5

32

0

J

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HB / B&B

NIGHTS 4 & 5

HHH In the heart of the picturesque Duna-Ipoly National Park VISEGRÁD

Hotel Visegrád

HHHH

Centrally located spa hotel, indoor & outdoor pools

HB

Hotel Bellevue

HHHH

‘Wellness’ hotel in a valley overlooking the river, with pool & spa

B&B

ESZTERGOM

Portobello Wellness Hotel

HHHH

Centrally located 'spa' hotel

BUDAPEST B&B

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

Friendly modern spa hotel, centrally located

BÚBÁNATVÖLGY NIGHT 6

The city has a comprehensive network of efficient and inexpensive public transport – excellent for exploring the city.

The journey from the airport to Szentendre involves a number of line changes, and depending on connections takes between 1.5-2.5 hours. We therefore recommend taking a taxi to the first hotel, which we are pleased to book in advance for you.

Approximate cost: €40-€45, journey time 40-50 minutes.

NIGHT 7

Budapest

HHHH

DOBOGÓKŐ

EXTENSION

Recommended Destination Airport

Whilst Budapest is enjoying a sort of culinary Renaissance, in more remote areas Hungarian staples remain traditional and meat-based.

Typical dishes include: meat/vegetable soups, noodles with chicken and paprika, stuffed cabbage, beef stew. Puddings: layered pastries, dumplings and fried dough. There are many excellent Hungarian wines which are slowly being discovered by the rest

Feet 3000 2000 1000 0

Bükkös Hotel

Getting There

Restaurants, Food & Wine

Terrain

SZENTENDRE

B&B

of the world. Locals also enjoy palinka – fruited brandies (pear, plum or apricot) unique to this area; and unicum, a dark brown bitter containing over 40 herbs. Not for the faint-hearted!

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHTS 1 & 2

Finding Your Way

Accommodation

NIGHT 3

Hungary: the Danube Bend Trip Information

Kempinski Hotel Corvinus

HHHHH

Located in the heart of Budapest, with wonderful views 2 NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED)

Extend Your Stay: We recommend you travel by hydrofoil/river boat from Esztergom along the Danube to Budapest, to extend your stay at the 5* Kempinski Hotel Corvinus in Budapest. Options to travel by river are available between May & September.

Currently the hydrofoil cruise departs at 17:00 (and arrives 18:30) Sat and Sun only. The riverboat option departs at 16:30 (arrives 20:00) Tuesday – Friday (May – August; Saturday only in September).

Neither the hydrofoil nor the riverboat departs on a Monday. See http://www.mahartpassnave.hu/ for departure times. Note: Occasionally, without warning the schedule can be disrupted. In the case of the river option not being available it is easy to reach Budapest from Esztergom via train.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

25

AT G F O O T L O O S E

S PA I N : A LT O T E R U E L

Alto Teruel u

Up to 57.3 miles u Grade 3 - 4

u

8 Days

u

Route open: May-Jun; Aug-Sep*

Itinerary Day 1 • Arrive in Iglesuela del Cid A small village with finely preserved casa palacios dating from the 16th-18th centuries.

Day 2 • Iglesuela - Cantavieja From Iglesuela, cross open sierra and stony pastures with wide views to Cantavieja (pr. Canta-ve-yea-ha), sited on a high outcrop of rock, its medieval walls enclosing a Baroque church (18th century), municipal buildings dating from the 15th century, a medieval castle and a beautiful 14th century Templar church, San Miguel (6.7 or 11.5 miles, 3.5 or 6 hrs).

Day 3 • Cantavieja Time for exploring Cantavieja, its porticoed Plaza de Cristo Rey and fine views. Optional walk to a viewpoint offering a panorama of the area (6.5 or 9.7 miles, 3.5 or 5 hrs).

Day 4 • Cantavieja to Mirambel Cross the valley to a hermitage overlooking Cantavieja, and follow a ridge with extensive views through wild empty country, before descending to the riverside village of Mirambel – a walled Templar town fortified in the 13th century with five gates, remarkable for their carvings, a fine 17th century church and 16th century convent, and two casa palacios (10 miles, 5.5 hrs).

Magnificently situated fortress town of Morella

Features • Discover the most sparsely populated and least-known area of Spain • Great walking – flower-filled pastures, pilgrim paths, ridges and open sierra • Nights in picturesque, often dramatically situated, little towns and villages • Ethnically distinct people renowned for their friendliness and hospitality

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

26

Day 5 • Mirambel to Forcall An ancient path up from Mirambel leads to the tiny village of La Cuba, from where another ascent and paths through scrub forest lead to the pilgrim track to San Cristobal with fine views of our destination, Forcall. Forcall is noted for its fine plaza mayor and Renaissance porticos with two 16th century palacios (15.2 miles, 8 hrs).

Day 6 • Forcall to Morella Paths lead up to the top of one of the most famous muelas in the Alto Maestrazgo, the Garumba, from where we enjoy wonderful views of Morella (pr. Morrey-ya) – which we enter through one of the four medieval gates (10.9 miles, 5.5 hrs).

Day 7 • Free day in Morella Morella is enclosed within 1.5 miles of 14th century walls with 14 towers and four gateways, and dominated by ruins of its 12th century castle. 14th century aqueduct; Basilica de Santa María la Mayor (1330) with carved portals; Monastery of San Francisco with fine 13th century cloister and museum. Optional walk to the picturesque village of Chiva (4.2 miles, 2.5-3 hours).

Day 8 • Departure day

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Alto Teruel Trip Information

Accommodation

Getting There

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

Recommended Destination Airports

HB

HH

Friendly, family-run hotel

CANTAVIEJA

Hotel Balfagon & Spa

HHHH

Stylishly renovated hotel with wonderful views

Castellon • Valencia • Barcelona

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Fitness: Grade 3 - 4 See page 10 for information on Grades

HB

NIGHT 4

CASA RURAL

Carefully restored boutique hotel in historic centre

B&B

Palau dels Osset

HHH 16th century building in the heart of the town

MORELLA

Hotel Cardenal Ram B&B

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

Las Moradas del Temple

FORCALL NIGHT 5

The area's cuisine is a blend of local traditions and home-grown ingredients, ranging from jamon Serrano (cured and thinly sliced 'mountain ham'), and chilindron (spicy tomato & vegetable) sauce; to game, stuffed peppers, fish and tender roast lamb, served with cochifrito: an onion, garlic and paprika sauce. Teruel is not known for refined wines, however it produces some very drinkable table

MIRAMBEL

NIGHTS 6 & 7

Castellon de la Plana is the closest airport, a one hour (~€100) taxi journey to Iglesuela. You could also take a bus to Villafranca (2 hrs, 1 bus per day), then taxi (15 mins) to Iglesuela. From Valencia airport the easiest way to reach the route is by taxi (2 hrs, ~€185). Or take a train from Valencia Nord to Castellon (1 hour), then onward per above.

From Barcelona take a train to Vinaros (2 hrs) then a taxi (1.5 hrs, ~€105) to Iglesuela. Or a taxi all the way: ~€320.

Restaurants, Food & Wine

Terrain

Casa Amada

B&B

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

NIGHTS 2 & 3

wines – strong, basic and 'interesting'! More sophisticated wines are from the nearby Rioja and Penedas regions.

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 1

IGLESUELA DEL CID

Finding Your Way

HHH

Sensitively renovated manor house in central location with fabulous views

2 NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED)

Farm tracks, some rocky cart and drove roads, and mountainous paths. Low, green table-top hills, with rises and valleys, followed by climbs and descents to walled towns and villages.

Feet Iglesuela del Cid 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 Day 2 Miles 0

5

Cantavieja

Mirambel

Day 3 10

15

Forcall

Day 5

Day 4 20

25

35

30

104 40

Forcall 0

5

10 miles

Cantavieja

Mirambel

Iglesuela del Cid

40

45

50

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

Morella

Morella Metres 1830 1535 1220 915 610 305 0 Day 6 55

400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

41

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

D

The most sparsely populated and least-known area of Spain

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

27

AT G F O O T L O O S E

S PA I N : C ATA L U N YA

Hills of Girona u

Up to 55.4 miles

u

Grade 2 - 3

u

8 or 5 Days

u

Route open: Apr-Jun; Aug-Oct*

Itinerary

(Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary)

Day 1 (1) • Arrive in Rupit Situated at an altitude of 840m on top of a rocky promontory, around which runs the Rupit stream. A delightful place, Rupit preserves its medieval ambience with cobbled streets, and a jumble of stone and slate-roofed houses.

Day 2 • Free day in Rupit Optional circular walk around medieval Rupit, visiting the Sallent waterfall and Sant Joan de Fàbregues, one of the best examples of Catalan Romanesque architecture in the area (4.3 miles, 2 hrs).

Day 3 (2) • Rupit to Mas la Serra From Rupit pass the Salt de Sallent, follow paths along the edge of the Collsacabra with spectacular views, then walk through open grassy pastures and woodland to the spectacularly situated Santuari de Nostra Senyora de la Salut, before continuing on to accommodation in a spectacular setting (10.2 miles, 5 hrs).

Day 4 (3) • Mas la Serra to Joanetes Enter the heart of the Collsacabra, a high isolated plateau with views across the whole of the Garrotxa. After visiting the hermitage of Sant Miquel de Castelló perched on a rocky outcrop, descend into the valley below to spend the night (5.9 miles, 3 hrs).

Or, a more challenging route with magnificent views takes you via the delightful village of Hostalets d’en Bas (8 miles, 4 hrs).

The medieval town of Besalú

Features • Walk from the crag-top village of Rupit to the medieval town of Besalú • Discover the foothills of the Pyrenees – some of the most delightful scenery in Spain • High, open plateaux, wooded hills, fertile valleys and over forty dormant volcanoes • Wonderfully preserved villages and towns, and many picturesque Romanesque churches • Rich variety of flora and fauna, and diverse ecosystems • Wide variety of birds of prey – including lammergeier and griffon vultures * For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

28

Day 5 (4) • Joanetes to Santa Pau Easy paths enter the Natural Park of Garrotxa passing Romanesque churches in picturesque woodland settings. Continue through beech forest between dormant volcanoes before reaching the medieval village of Santa Pau, an ancient barony with a castle founded in the 11th century (11.8 miles, 6 hrs).

Day 6 • Free day Optional excursion to the dormant volcano of Santa Margarida, with its tiny chapel inside the crater, then back along a fertile valley to Santa Pau (7.6 miles, 4 hrs). Alternatively, explore the excellent museums in Olot.

Day 7 • Santa Pau to Besalú Footpaths pass craggy peaks and mountain rivers (opportunities for swimming in natural pools), before climbing to a high ridge with views.

Then oak and pine forests lead to the medieval town of Besalú with its 11th century fortified bridge, Jewish bathhouse and 12th century monastery church (12.7 or 13.5 miles, 6–7 hrs).

Day 8 (5) • Departure day

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

Getting There

Hostal Estrella B&B

Delicious, light, fresh white wines from the Penedés region, and more robust table wine from Emporda.

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

RUPIT

HH

Comfortable hotel in the centre of Rupit Near LA SALUT

Mas La Serra HB

Finding Your Way

NIGHTS 1 & 2

Accommodation

NIGHT 3

Hills of Girona Trip Information

HHH

14th century farmhouse with splendid views JOANETES

Barcelona • Girona

El Ferres

Restaurants, Food & Wine

Trains From Barcelona

Vic

~€6

Taxis From To Price Barcelona airport First hotel ~€175 Girona airport First hotel ~€130 Vic train station First hotel ~€ 55

NIGHT 4

HB

Mas Can Batlle CASA RURAL

Beautifully restored farmhouse with lovely views and pool

B&B

NIGHT 7

Els Jardins de la Martana

HHH

Friendly, centrally located hotel with impressive views BESALÚ B&B

Casa Marcial

HHH

Modern, boutique hotel with pool, in historic centre BARCELONA

Mesón Castilla B&B

EXTENSION

Mostly gentle, well-defined tracks across serra and through farmland; forest tracks and country lanes. Flowers and luxuriant vegetation in early summer.

Small hotel in converted country houses

BESALÚ

NIGHT 7

Fitness: Grade 2 - 3 See page 10 for information on Grades

HHH

Near SANTA PAU

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Terrain

17th century farmhouse in wonderful setting

Cal Sastre

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

AGRITURISMO

SANTA PAU B&B

Price

Family-run 18th century farmhouse in valley

Mas les Comelles

HB

To

NIGHTS 5 & 6

Cuina Volcànica describes the regional dishes that use local ingredients – e.g., beans, potatoes, grains and vegetables – grown in the area's nutrient-rich volcanic soil.

Fesols de Santa Pau (Santa Pau kidney beans) feature heavily on menus, as do wild boar, lamb, rabbit, bolets (mushrooms) and various cured meats. Botifarra (sausage) with white beans is a Catalan favourite.

CASA RURAL

JOANETES

NIGHTS 5 & 6

From Barcelona there are trains or buses to Vic (1.5 hrs), then a local bus to Rupit, although we recommend booking a taxi from Vic to the first hotel. From Girona there are buses to Vic (1 hr).

HB

Recommended Destination Airports NIGHT 4

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

HH

Traditional hotel in quiet street; excellent value

NUMBER OF NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED) 8 DAY • Standard: 2 / Superior: 4 5 DAY • Standard: 2 / Superior: 3 ˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

..... 5-day route

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

41

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

D

(Extinct!) Santa Margarida volcano 5-day itinerary: Rupit to Santa Pau Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

29

AT G F O O T L O O S E

PORTUGAL : SERRA de SINTRA

Sintra & the Portuguese Coast Up to 44.6 miles u 8 Days u

Grade 2 - 3 u Route open: u

Apr-Jun; Aug-Oct*

Itinerary Day 1 • Arrive in Cascais A fashionable resort with a marina, smart shops, elegant restaurants and one of the best (and cleanest!) surfing beaches in Europe. Optional exploratory walk (2 hrs).

Day 2 • Cascais to Guincho A 'promenade' walk along the coast, past lighthouses and interesting cliff formations (6.4 miles/3 hrs); or a 15minute transfer with the Route Manager to the start of an 8-mile/4 hr walk through the serra and down to Guincho Beach (extensive views!), one of Portugal's best wind-surfing locations.

PHOTO: NAOMI MOGIL PHOTO: & JAMES KEANE KATE WHINNEY

Day 3 • Guincho to Azoia Follow coastal paths before heading inland into the Serra de Sintra.

Opportunity to visit the interesting Convento dos Capuchos (Capuchin monastery) (+2 hrs), before returning through the Serra up to the spectacularly situated 14th century Peninha Chapel.

Paths then lead down to your hotel near the coast (5 or 12.6 miles, 3 or 6.5 hrs).

Dramatic coastal scenery

Features • Dramatic coastal scenery, pristine beaches and some of the largest waves in Europe!

• The Serra de Sintra, with its unique microclimates and vegetation • Walk to the Cabo da Roca, the most westerly point in mainland Europe • Enjoy fresh seafood dishes and world-famous Colares wines • Delightful Sintra – a ‘visitor’s paradise’, with its elegant palaces, romantic gardens, medieval streets and shops * For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

30

Day 4 • Azoia to Praia Grande A cliff-top walk with spectacular views leads to Cabo (Cape) da Roca, the most westerly point of Portugal – and mainland Europe. Continue inland through the vineyards of the famous ‘Colares’ wine before returning to the coast and past dramatic cliff formations to the beach of Praia Grande, with its world-famous swirling waves (6.9 miles, 4 hrs).

Day 5 • Praia Grande to Colares Continue along the coast to the small seaside resort of Azenhas do Mar, with its pretty whitewashed houses perched on a cliff; then past more fine beaches before heading inland to the curious church of São Mamede, ‘protector of the animals,’ which were freely allowed to enter the chapel until recent times. Minor roads then lead to Colares, famous for its wine (6.7 or 9.7 miles, 3 or 4.5 hrs).

Day 6 • Colares to Sintra Walk through small hamlets and vineyards before joining wide forest paths passing through the Serra to the ‘Romantic’ Palace of Monserrate, with exotic gardens and follies. Continue through the Serra and a short section of road brings you to the arch of the old west entrance to Sintra (7.5 miles, 3.5 hrs).

Day 7 • Free day in Sintra Described by Byron as a ‘glorious Eden’, and boasting UNESCO World Heritage status, Sintra is a visitor’s paradise, with magnificent palaces, gardens, galleries, churches, museums, and cobbled, medieval streets lined with boutique shops and cafés. For highlights take the optional Sintra city walk.

Note: The city’s famous market is on Sundays.

Day 8 • Departure day

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Sintra & the Portuguese Coast Trip Information

Getting There

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

B&B

CASCAIS

Hotel Albatroz

B&B

NIGHT 2

HB B&B

NIGHT 4

Sintra

Miles 0

5

10

Praia Grande

Day 4 15

20

Day 5 25

˚F ˚C 104 40

Praia Grande Colares Sintra

Metres 305 0

Day 6 35

30

40

B&B

HHH

Converted country house

SINTRA

Lawrence’s Hotel

HHHHH

Elegant, stylish hotel in central location

B&B

SINTRA

Tivoli Palácio de Seteais

HHHHH

Elegant, luxurious hotel in magnificent surroundings LISBON

Hotel do Chiado

HHHH

Innovative, modern hotel in the heart of Lisbon

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

Sintra

Colares

Modern, cliff-top hotel with sea views

Sarrazola House

B&B

NIGHTS 6 & 7

Cascais

HHH

COLARES

EXTENSION

Paths along the Atlantic coast, through low hills, vineyards and forest.

LUXURY RURAL LODGING

Hotel Arribas

B&B

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

Convento de São Saturnino

PRAIA GRANDE

NIGHT 5

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

HHHHH

Superior rooms have sea view

NIGHTS 6 & 7

You can buy a voucher for a taxi from Lisbon airport information desk in arrivals, however to secure the best price we recommend you pre-book via the ATG office.

Hotel Fortaleza do Guincho

Mediterranean style, former convent in idyllic setting

Fitness: Grade 2 - 3 See page 10 for information on Grades

Day 3

Luxury boutique hotel in stunning seaside location

17th century fortress with sea restaurant views; Michelin

Taxis From To Price Lisbon airport Cascais ~€50 - €70

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Day 2

HHHHH

AZÓIA NIGHT 3

From Lisbon take the underground (€1.40) or the aerobus (€3.50) to Cais do Sodre (journey time 30 minutes), then a train to Cascais (€2.15 – journey time 40 minutes).

The windswept coastal area is home to the 'Ramisco' vines grown in deep trenches (technically underground) that produce the area's internationally renowned Colares

Azoia

On Cascais bay in the heart of the quaint fishing village

GUINCHO

Lisbon

Delicious country cooking – hearty soups and roasts, with a strong reliance on sausage, cheese, bread and elaborate, fresh seafood dishes.

Puddings tend to be sticky and extremely sweet – pastries and cheesecakes are favourites. The superior option hotel in Guincho has a Michelin .

Guincho

HHH

Recommended Destination Airport

Restaurants, Food & Wine

Feet 1000 0

Hotel Baía

B&B

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

NIGHT 1

wines. Another famous Portuguese wine worth sampling is, of course, Port.

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 1

CASCAIS

Finding Your Way

Terrain

Accommodation

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

NUMBER OF NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED) Standard: 1 / Superior: 1

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

Azóia PORTUGAL Guincho Lisbon Cascais

41

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

D

Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

31

AT G F O O T L O O S E

Itinerary

I TA LY : L I G U R I A

(Days in brackets refer to 6-day itinerary)

Riviera & Portofino Up to 51.2 miles u 8 or 6 Days u

Day 1 (1) • Arrive in Sestri Levante

Grade 3 - 3+ u Route open: Apr-Jun; Sep-Oct* u

Day 2 • Free day in Sestri Levante Time to explore Sestri Levante with its picturesque medieval streets and port, tranquil bay and excellent beaches.

Optional circular walk (4 miles, 2.5 hrs) or coastal walk southwards (10.5 miles, 5 hrs).

Day 3 (2) • Sestri Levante to Chiavari Follow the coastal path with fine views, then cross hills to the 12th century basilica of San Salvatore dei Fieschi, before continuing to bustling Chiavari with its medieval centre and fine Botanic Gardens (12.3 miles, 6 hrs).

PHOTO: FRANCIS ORAVETZ PHOTO: KATE WHINNEY

Day 4 (3) • Chiavari to Rapallo Paved paths through olive groves and small farms lead past two fine churches before descending to Rapallo (8.3 miles, 4.5 hours). Alternative high route through remote, wilder country with spectacular views (9.4 miles, 5.5 hrs).

Down to the ancient fishing port of Camogli

Features • Walk from Sestri Levante’s beautiful Bay of Silence to the ancient fishing port of Camogli • Stunning coastal scenery and views, olive terraces, wooded hillsides and the dramatic Portofino peninsula • Colourfully painted towns and villages renowned for their trompe-l’oeil decoration; medieval centres, colonnaded streets, elegant palazzi and excellent beaches • Ancient, slate-paved paths traversing high above the coast • San Fruttuoso Abbey, accessible only on foot

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

32

Day 5 (4) • Rapallo to Paraggi/Portofino Optional cable-car ascent to Montallegro, above Rapallo, with pilgrim path descent (2.8 miles, 1.5 hrs). Then, from Rapallo, quiet paths and alleys lead around the bay to Santa Margherita Ligure, continuing, with swimming opportunities en route, to the tiny cove of Paraggi – Standard hotel (4.8 miles, 2.5 hrs). A paved walkway contours around a wooded headland to the delightful village of Portofino – Superior hotel (1.1 mile, 30 mins).

Day 6 • Free day Opportunities to explore this famously picturesque resort, where exotic ‘glitterati’ coexist with the local fishing community, and farmers of the terraces and hidden valleys behind the village (3.1 miles, 1.5 hrs).

Day 7 (5) • Paraggi/Portofino to Camogli Climb past ruined mills to pine-shaded paths with lovely views and down to the 11th century monastery of San Fruttuoso. Opportunities to visit the monastery and swim to view the famous underwater statue Cristo degli Abissi.

Paths through woods and terraces lead up to the central ridge, before descending past the church of San Rocco to Camogli (7.6/7.2 miles, 4 hrs).

Day 8 (6) • Departure day

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Fabulous seafood is available throughout the route. Alternatively, try the trofiette recchelline (pasta with green beans, potatoes and pesto), and the farinata (gigantic pancake made with chickpea flour and baked in a pizza-oven). The area is also renowned for pesto, olive oil, focaccia. Local white wines include Coronata and Val Polcevera.

To

Price

First hotel First hotel First hotel First hotel

~€120 ~€230 ~€320 ~€300

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

Miles 0

5

10

Day 4 15

20 ˚F ˚C 104 40

Chiavari Lavagna

Paraggi

Portofino Sestri Levante

0

1

2

B&B B&B B&B

Renovated hotel on the promenade

PARAGGI

Hotel Argentina

HH

Friendly hotel in exclusive cove

PORTOFINO

Eight Hotel Portofino

HHHH

Small, renovated palazzo

CAMOGLI

Cenobio Dei Dogi

HHHH

Charming grand hotel with private beach and pool

GENOA

Hotel Bristol Palace B&B

EXTENSION

Superior rooms have sea view

HHHH

Elegant, centrally located hotel

PISA

Relais dell’Orologio

HHHHH

Award-winning hotel with 14th century tower

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

Zoagli

Santa Margherita San Fruttuoso

35

30

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

Recco

25

HHHH

Superior rooms have sea view

B&B

Day 3

Day 2

Paraggi Camogli Metres Portofino 610 305 0 Day 5 Day 7

Quiet location in the medieval centre, with pool

Tigullio Royal

Rapallo Chiavari Optional high route

Sestri Levante

HHH

RAPALLO

EXTENSION

Feet 2000 1000 0

SHORTER ROUTE

Rapallo Camogli

Monte Rosa

Fitness: Grade 3 - 3+ See page 10 for information on Grades

Ancient paths through olive groves and woodland, traversing hillsides above the coast. A few steep climbs and ascents with some approaches to villages and the sea, including long flights of steps. Slate-paved paths are a unique feature of the area and can become slippery when wet.

Sticks/poles advisable.

On the Bay of Silence with terrace and beach Superior rooms have sea view

B&B

Price ~€13 - €21 ~€ 5 - € 9 ~€16 - €27

Taxis From Genoa airport Pisa airport Milan Malpensa Milan Linate

Restaurants, Food & Wine

Terrain

To Sestri Sestri Sestri

NIGHT 4

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

HHHH

CHIAVARI

NIGHTS 5 & 6

Trains From Pisa Genoa Milan

Miramare

B&B

Genoa • Pisa • Milan There are trains to Sestri Levante from Genoa (1.5 hrs), Pisa (2–2.5 hrs) or Milan (2.5–3 hrs).

SESTRI LEVANTE

B&B

Recommended Destination Airports

NIGHTS 5 & 6

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHTS 1 & 2

Getting There

NIGHT 7

Finding Your Way

Accommodation

NIGHT 3

Riviera & Portofino Trip Information

3 miles

Moneglia

41

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

D

5-day itinerary: 1 night at each stop on route Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

33

AT G F O O T L O O S E

Itinerary

I TA LY : L I G U R I A

(Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary)

Cinque Terre

Day 1 (1) • Arrive in Levanto Originally a Roman town, it now has medieval walls, a 13th century castle and elegant Neo-Classical buildings from its days of grandeur as a fashionable bathing resort in the 19th century.

u

Up to 51.6 miles

u

Grade 2 - 4

u

8 or 5 Days

u

Route open: Apr-Jun; Sep-Oct*

Day 2 • Free day in the area Optional circular walk in the hills, once the domain of the feared Zolaschi, who controlled the ancient ridge-top trade route (6.4 or 8 miles, 3.5 or 5 hrs).

Additional walk to the coastal village of Bonassola (1 hour), returning by train or on foot.

PHOTO: FRANCIS ORAVETZ

Day 3 (2) • Levanto to Monterosso Superb coastal path, through pine woods and scented scrub, with views of the whole Cinque Terre. A stepped path leads down to Monterosso, with medieval centre, castle and Cappucin convent (4.8 or 9.7 miles, 2.5 or 6 hrs).

Magnificent views along ancient coastal paths

Features • Walk from palm-fringed Levanto to the promontory village of Portovenere • One of the finest coastal paths in Europe • Picturesque fishing villages linked by an ancient network of footpaths…and by train and boat!

• Excursions into the hills behind the villages, with spectacular views and inspiring walks • Excellent seafood and renowned wines from the terraced vineyards of the coast

Day 4 • Free day in the area A steady climb up a cobbled path brings you to a ridge with wonderful views – both inland and seaward, leading to the sanctuary of Madonna di Reggio, from where a fine pilgrim path leads gently down to Vernazza, the former Roman port of 'Vulnetia' (7.9 miles, 5.5 hrs).

Return along the coast by train, boat or on foot.

Day 5 (3) • Monterosso to Riomaggiore Walk the famous Cinque Terre coastal path, which links the five villages and their vineyards. This may be crowded in high season. (A range of options, up to 14.3 miles, 8 hrs).

Day 6 (4) • Riomaggiore to Portovenere Up through terraced vineyards to the wooded ridge, via the sanctuary church of Montenero, then through pine, chestnut woods and scrub, before emerging to views of the dramatic coastline and descending to Portovenere (8.7 miles, 5.5 hrs).

Day 7 • Free day in Portovenere Explore Portovenere or take a boat to the island of Palmaria, with picturesque paths and beaches for swimming (3 miles, 2.5 hrs).

Day 8 (5) • Departure day

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

34

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Recommended Destination Airports

Genoa • Pisa From Genoa and Pisa there are frequent trains to Levanto (1.5-2 hrs).

Excellent fresh seafood including interesting very local species – such as the ‘bati-bati’, a species of curious, but very flavoursome local crayfish, and mussels from the Gulf of La Spezia.

Local produce from small farms in hills along the coast. Good trattorie everywhere on route, and a couple of very good restaurants.

Price

Levanto ~€12 - €18 Levanto ~€ 6 - €10

Taxis From To Pisa airport First hotel Genoa airport First hotel

Fitness: Grade 2 - 4 See page 10 for information on Grades

The five villages of the Cinque Terre are connected by frequent local trains.

This provides a daily choice of walking options, from easy to challenging, with over 100 miles of excellent paths. The coastal path follows the contours of the coast and is punctuated by flights of ancient steps. Once you are on the ridge (2,000 ft) you can walk on fairly level terrain. The paths are mostly ancient but well-preserved, though steep, narrow and rough in places.

Short sections of route not suitable for vertigo sufferers – alternative paths available.

Longer/higher route Levanto

Feet 2000 1000 0

Portovenere Palmaria Metres 610 305 0 Day 7 Day 6

Riomaggiore

Monterosso

Manarola Vernazza

Day 2

Miles 0

5

Day 4

Day 3 10

15

20

Day 5 25

45

40

50 Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

Monterosso

35

30 ˚F ˚C 104 40

Levanto

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Vernazza Corniglia Manarola Riomaggiore

Portovenere 0

5

10 miles

PALMARIA

B&B B&B

Cinque Terre

41

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

D

HHH

Modern hotel close to the seafront

MONTEROSSO

Porto Roca

HHHH

Spectacular situation, wonderful cliff-side pool with sea views (pool open May-September)

Villa Argentina Located at the top of the village with sea views

Paradiso B&B

NIGHTS 6 & 7

HH

PORTOVENERE

HHH

Mediterranean-style hotel on the Gulf of Portovenere PORTOVENERE

Grand Hotel Portovenere B&B

Terrain

Restored villa in lovely setting

RIOMAGGIORE

NIGHTS 6 & 7

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

HHH

MONTEROSSO

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

Family-run hotel in the town centre

Villa Margherita

Price ~€180 ~€180

HHH

LEVANTO

B&B

Restaurants, Food & Wine

To

NIGHT 5

Trains From Pisa Genoa

Nazionale

B&B

Getting There

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

LEVANTO

B&B

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

NIGHTS 1 & 2

Cinque Terre wines have been renowned from antiquity. Some good DOC wines, especially from Levanto, and Sciacchetra (dessert wine).

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHTS 3 & 4

Finding Your Way

NIGHTS 1 & 2

Accommodation

NIGHTS 3 & 4

Cinque Terre Trip Information

HHHH

Newly reburbished (formerly a convent), seafront hotel

Famous for its beautiful walking routes, the coastal path in this area has become over-popular in recent years, so the best walking is on the higher, inland routes which are included in the ATG Route Booklets. On each day there are several options so you can walk as much or as little as you like.

NOTE: Paths in the national park may, on occasion, be temporarily closed due to adverse weather or other considerations. The ATG Route Book provides for this eventuality by including a range of equally beautiful route options for each day. Your Route Manager will advise you accordingly.

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

5-day itinerary: 1 night at each stop on route Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

35

AT G F O O T L O O S E

Itinerary

I TA LY : M A R C H E

Montefeltro & Urbino Up to 55.5 miles u 8 Days u

Grade 2 - 3 u Route open: May-Jun; Aug-Sep* u

Day 1 • Arrive in San Leo A scenic walk from the valley, along strade bianche, leads up to the dramatically situated fortified medieval village of San Leo (2.9 or 5.3 miles, 1.5 or 3 hrs).

Day 2 • San Leo to Villagrande Time to explore San Leo, its 9th century pre-Romanesque Pieve, 12th century Romanesque ‘cathedral’ and impressive castle. Afternoon walk through farmland and pine woods to a low pass (3,000ft), and your hotel, beside a small lake (6.2 miles, 3 hrs).

PHOTO: MYA PADGET

Day 3 • Villagrande to Frontino Farm tracks through woods and meadows towards Monte Carpegna (4,634ft). Then choose either an ancient drove road around the base of the mountain, or paths up to high meadows and an escarpment (summit) with spectacular views, before descending through pine woods.

Routes join in the village of Carpegna and continue to the fortified medieval village of Frontino (9.7 or 11 miles, 5–5.5 hrs).

Inspiring routes to crag-top villages – San Leo

Features • Walk from crag-top San Leo to the Renaissance city of Urbino • Open hills of Montefeltro, crested with rocky outcrops, woods and quiet villages • Ridges with wide views and a profusion of flowers and butterflies in spring • Renowned 15th century Ducal Palace of Federico da Montefeltro, whose court marked one of the high points of western civilisation • Fine churches, monasteries and fortified medieval villages en route

Day 4 • Frontino to Piandimeleto After visiting the monastery of Montefiorentino with its cloister and Madonna by Giovanni Santi, father of Raphael, farm and forest tracks lead down to the small town of Piandimeleto, distinguished by its fine castle complex (8.5 miles, 4 hrs).

Day 5 • Piandimeleto to Urbania We follow farm tracks up into the hills, enjoying panoramic views. Beyond a ridge (1,602ft) we follow tracks and small gravel lanes through open farmland and down to Urbania (917ft) (11.9 miles, 6 hrs).

Day 6 • Urbania to Urbino Visit Urbania, its arcaded streets, fine 15th century Ducal Palace, ceramics museum, many interesting churches… then quiet gravel lanes lead across hills, past farms and isolated churches, to Urbino (1,575ft) (12.6 miles, 6.5 hrs).

Day 7 • Free day in Urbino Visit the superb palace built by Duke Federico da Montefeltro, with paintings by Piero della Francesca, Raphael, Paolo Uccello, etc.

Day 8 • Departure day

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

36

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Montefeltro & Urbino Trip Information Recommended Destination Airports

Bologna • Ancona

Rimini Rimini

Fitness: Grade 2 - 3 See page 10 for information on Grades

Walking on strade bianche (small gravel roads), grassy meadow paths, and woodland/farm tracks along ridges with superb views. Some stony paths – sticks/poles advisable.

Marecchia Villagrande Piandimeleto Feet Valley Frontino 5000 Mt. Carpegna San Leo 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 15

20

25

SAN MARINO

Villagrande

Frontino Urbino Piandimeleto Urbania •

•

•• •• ••• ••

Day 5 35

40

50

45

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

HB

NIGHT 2

HB

NIGHT 3 NIGHT 5

HB HB

Small and intimate medieval mill with restaurant

HHHH

Friendly hotel with attic rooms and garden URBINO

San Domenico

HHHH

Restored 15th century convent opposite the Palazzo Ducale BOLOGNA

Touring Hotel

HHH

Hospitable, modern hotel in historic centre of town BOLOGNA

Dei Commercianti

HHHH

Restored medieval building, retaining many features

350

86 30

41

AGRITURISMO

Bonconte

Day 6

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

San Leo

Urbania

30 ˚F ˚C 104 40

Urbino Metres 1535 1220 915 610 305 0

Farmhouse with lovely views

URBINO B&B

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

AGRITURISMO

Il Mulino della Ricavata

B&B

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Simple, friendly, family-run hotel

URBANIA

B&B

Sample the local Sangiovese and light white, Bianchello del Metauro, as well as some delicious Verdicchio whites from the coast.

HH

La Caputa

B&B

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

Converted ‘keep’ with panoramic views

URBANIA

NIGHT 5

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

HH

Hotel Ester

Price

First hotel ~€240 First hotel ~€220 First hotel ~€ 65

NIGHTS 6 & 7

To

Lakeside, mountain hotel; pool in summer & tennis courts

PIANDIMELETO

NIGHTS 6 & 7

Taxis From Bologna airport Ancona airport Rimini

HHH

Rocca dei Malatesta

B&B

Price ~€16 - €22 ~€14 - €20

NIGHT 4

To

Parco del Lago

FRONTINO

EXTENSION

Restaurants, Food & Wine

10

Friendly, family-run hotel on town square VILLAGRANDE

EXTENSION

Trains From Bologna Ancona

Le Marche is renowned for its interesting and resourceful cuisine – robust handmade pastas complemented by rich and varied sauces; seasonal truffles, both black and white; a wide range of mushrooms – some unique to the area, such as rabbit roasted with mountain herbs and tender lamb.

5

HH

Superior rooms are larger

From the central stations in Bologna and Ancona there are regular trains to Rimini (approx 1 hour). From Rimini a taxi (30 mins, approx ~€65) will take you to San Leo via Pietracuta, where those wishing to walk up to San Leo can, by arrangement, ask the taxi driver to transport their luggage to their hotel.

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

Miles 0

Il Castello B&B

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

Terrain

SAN LEO

Getting There

NIGHT 1

Finding Your Way

Accommodation

D

NUMBER OF NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED) Standard: 3 / Superior: 3

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

Cycling itinerary also available: See pages 68-69 for details.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

37

225 Walk up to 225 miles of the ancient MILES Via Francigena ~ to ~ ROME

225

The Via Francigena, or ‘Frankish Road’, was the main road from Rome via the Great St Bernard Pass to territories of the Franks north of the Alps. The route then continued, crossing the Jura mountain range in northern France and ending in Canterbury, England.

I

n the century following the sack of Rome (in 410AD) by Alaric and his army of Goths, and disintegration of the Roman Empire, the Via Francigena was established through territory occupied by the Franks. It was a direct and secure route with regular overnight stopping places, often in fortified groups of houses (borgo). Many of these established during the reign of Theodoric (493–525AD) housed small religious communities, which provided accommodation for travellers.

What happened after the Franks?

After re-taking strongholds from the Franks and Ostrogoths in Northern Italy, the Byzantines were assisted by the Longobardi (or Lombards), who were invited to stabilise the recaptured areas. In 569AD the entire Lombard tribe crossed the Alps into Italy. They established a capital in Pavia, and maintained the Via Francigena as the main route to what became the Lombard Kingdom of Italy, extending to Benevento, south of Naples. The route and its infrastructure was developed, often through endowments to religious communities, particularly during the reign of the Lombard King Liutprand (713–742AD), a period of peace and prosperity.

How do we know the route of the early Via Francigena?

In 990AD Archbishop Sigeric of Canterbury travelled to Rome to receive his palium (a woollen cloak of office) from the Pope. On his return journey he made a record of his route.

Was the Via Francigena a clearly defined road?

Where the route crossed a pass or river, or entered a town, there was usually a single route. In many places, however, the route fanned out, providing a range of options. Pack animals, flocks and herds were notorious for taking routes other than the hard stony main one, particularly if these offered opportunities for grazing. Other routes might evolve because they led via springs, shrines, chapels or hermitages, or places where travellers could obtain food and spend the night.

Ultimately, all roads led to Rome.

Was there a ‘season’ for travel on the Via Francigena each year?

The ‘season’ for travellers from north of the Alps depended on snow conditions, but usually the passes were open by early June and closed by late October. Many travellers would cross late and spend the winter in Italy. December to March tended to be quiet months on the Via Francigena, but during spring, summer and autumn, the winter trickle of travellers turned into a flood.

38

How far did people travel in a day?

Time taken on the route depended on hours of daylight. In winter travellers were confined to short stages (about 6–8 hours of travel). In summer, 12–14 hours was possible, although few could sustain this over long distances. The average day’s journey, allowing time to rest and find somewhere before dusk to eat and spend the night, was about 8 hours. Walking in mixed groups the average speed was about 2 miles in an hour.

How many people travelled the route each year?

At the peak period in a busy ‘Jubilee’ year, over 20,000 people a day were recorded passing through the gates of Siena. The average number of people travelling the route each day was probably closer to 2–3,000, on their way to Rome and back.

What was the economic impact of the Via Francigena?

‘The Main Road of Europe’ was a source of wealth to the areas through which it passed. Providing not just shelter, but food and drink for thousands of people each day, it created employment and an almost insatiable demand for local produce, as well as opportunities for stall-holders and traders in foodstuffs and livestock who came from far and wide. Many of the ancient ‘service’ trade and drove roads remain today.

What sort of people travelled the Via Francigena?

Those who met along the way would have ranged from pilgrims to merchants, farmers and drovers, teams of pack horses and mules carrying goods from all over Europe – whether wool from England, cloth from Flanders or ceramics from Deruta – masons on their way to sites of great cathedrals, artisans, students, clergy, the military, administrators, and entertainers. Some would have been on horses; most would have travelled on foot. The wealthy would have had an entourage with stewards sent ahead to prepare a suitable reception and accommodation along the route.

How did the Via Francigena cope with the stream of travellers?

The Via Francigena, like the Camino de Santiago and other busy routes, was highly organised. Communication up and down the route was good. Approximate numbers of travellers in transit each day were reported so that those further down the route could prepare and cater accordingly.

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

SECTION 1

SECTION 2

SECTION 3

San Gimignano to Montalcino

Montalcino to Viterbo

Viterbo to Rome

Up to 72 miles

Up to 89.7 miles

Up to 67.5 miles

SEE PAGES 40-41

SEE PAGES 42-43

SEE PAGES 44-45

TUSCAN HILLS

ANCIENT VOLCANIC LANDSCAPES

What was it like travelling down the Via Francigena in 1300, for example?

APPROACH TO ROME

It is unlikely that you would have travelled alone! People tended to travel in groups of 20 or more. This was partly for safety in numbers against brigands, but also for companionship, and because groups could generally ensure better treatment along the way. Each group had its own leadership and dynamic.

Canonries and monasteries usually had dormitories for visitors, and also used the claustrum (courtyard or cloister), but the church itself was also an important resource. Churches had piles of straw mattresses ready for use each night. Many churches also had additional floor-levels, galleries and lofts, where people could sleep. Outside there were loggias, barns and lean-to shelters where people both ate and slept. Toilet facilities were well-organised.

Where the route passed through villages there were stalls selling food, and inns or taverns – often simple affairs such as a room or cellar with benches and barrels. Organisation of overnight accommodation was made easier because people travelled in groups. Those offering accommodation would position someone on the route each afternoon and travellers would look for a Canon, monk or innkeeper, depending on where they wanted to stay. Once capacity of one location had been filled, travellers were directed to another – and there was usually a gaggle of children to act as guides if the way was unclear.

Bed-time, after an evening service, was at dusk. Candles were not allowed in communal sleeping areas due to the risk of fire. Food for late-comers was set aside in a high alcove, out of reach of dogs. Bakers would work through the night. Dawn would be followed by another service and people would be given a piece of bread and meat or cheese for their journey.

They would make their offering of money to the monastery or canonry, and then the group would assemble and set off again. Travel was a well-organised, highly sociable activity with a strong sense of purpose, and enjoyed by millions of people every year.

Medieval inns were often crowded, rough and rowdy. The ‘better class’ of inn was relatively expensive, and a few had private rooms for those who could afford them. Most, however, had innkeepers not noted for their integrity, food that was poor quality, and crowded conditions with people sleeping three or four to a bed, with assorted vermin, whilst rubbing shoulders with thieves and murderers.

A band of pilgrims would choose a canonry or a monastery at which to stay. After arrival they would be greeted and fed at long tables with benches, or outside if the weather was fine.

Feeding hundreds of people every evening required a large, well-organised staff. The census of 1200, for example, records 180 people living and working at just one canonry on the route, Pieve a Castello.

What happened to the Via Francigena?

The Via Francigena survived successive changes of power and influence, conflicts and invasions for nearly 1,000 years. In 800AD Charlmagne travelled down the Via Francigena to be crowned Emperor in Rome. In the year 1000AD vast numbers of people streamed from all over Europe to Rome, and travel increased over successive centuries. After 1400, however, Florentine dominance led to the route being diverted via Florence. Meanwhile, the power of the Church had been permanently weakened and the fashion for pilgrimage declined. The old ‘Main Road of Europe’ that once thronged with millions of travellers each year, degenerated into farm and forest tracks. Overnight stopping places on the old route lost their raison d’être, but a few, like San Gimignano and Pieve a Castello, have survived as part of a remarkable historic heritage.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

39

AT G F O O T L O O S E

Itinerary

I TA LY : T U S C A N Y

225 Miles to Rome (Section 1) A walk through central and Southern Tuscany, characterised by paths through vineyards, olive groves and forest, and landscapes punctuated with cypress trees and walled hill towns and villages.

Tuscan Hills u

Up to 72 miles

u

Grade 3

u

8 Days

u

Route open: April-October*

225 MILES ~ to ~ ROME

225

Day 1 • Arrive in San Gimignano The ‘Medieval Manhattan' is irresistibly charming and perfectly preserved. It houses a fine array of religious and secular frescoes and monuments.

Day 2 • S. Gimignano-Colle Val d’Elsa Walk across low hills with vineyards and olive groves to the medieval hill town of Colle di Val d’Elsa, renowned for its tunnel streets (8.7 miles, 4.5 hrs).

Day 3 • Colle Val d’Elsa to Monteriggioni Paths across open farmland and through woods lead to the high village of Monteriggioni, encircled by walls with 14 watch-towers (11.6 miles, 6 hrs).

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER WHINNEY

Day 4 • Monteriggioni to Siena Follow paths through woods and meadows to Siena, the best preserved great medieval city in Europe (11.8 miles, 6.5 hrs).

Landscapes punctuated with cypress trees

Features • First section of ATG’s 225-mile independent walking route – one of the world’s most unique, classic walks following the Via Francigena • Timeless countryside, hills crowned with medieval cities and villages – San Gimignano, Colle di Val d’Elsa and Monteriggioni • Patchwork of vineyards, olive groves and ancient forests, fields of wheat and barley • Landscapes punctuated with cypress trees, walled hill towns and villages • Excellent Tuscan food and wine

Day 5 • Siena to Lucignano Tracks across low open hills of the Crete region lead to the village of Lucignano (15 miles, 7.5 hrs).

Day 6 • Lucignano to Buonconvento Gravel lanes along the Arbia Valley lead to Buonconvento, with its interesting museum of medieval Masters (9.8 miles, 5 hrs). Optional walk to the abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore (magnificent frescoed cloister) (5.8 miles, 3 hrs).

Day 7 • Buonconvento to Montalcino Paths up through renowned vineyards of Brunello (Italy’s most expensive red wine!) lead to hilltop Montalcino (10.9 or 13.1miles, 5.5 or 6.5 hrs).

Day 8 • Departure day, or...

Continue with Section 2 of the 225 Miles to Rome route: Ancient Volcanic Landscapes (following pages)...

Please note: The Romans rested ‘every four days’. If you plan to walk more than one section of ‘225 Miles’ we strongly urge you to book some rest days into your itinerary. Please contact the office for advice.

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

40

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Tuscan Hills Trip Information

Accommodation

Finding Your Way For further information on food & wine see page 9.

During the trip you will be walking through the vineyards of Italy’s famous Chianti and superb Brunello di Montalcino wines. Further south is Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, all of

B&B

NIGHT 2

B&B B&B

Price ~€7 ~€6

To

Price First hotel ~€100 First hotel ~€100 First hotel ~€ 30

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays. Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Romantik Hotel Monteriggioni

HHHH

HHHH Modern hotel within the city walls

LUCIGNANO

Borgo Antico

HHH

Family-run hotel, converted from traditional fattoria

BUONCONVENTO

Fattoria Pieve a Salti

Fitness: Grade 3 See page 10 for information on Grades

HHH

Agriturismo in a lovely rural setting with outdoor and indoor pools

MONTALCINO

Dei Capitani B&B

NIGHT 7

Strade bianche (small gravel roads); mule/farm/woodland tracks and paths, and some asphalt near towns. In the autumn, be prepared to cross a few roughly ploughed fields. May be muddy in wet weather – sufficient ankle support essential. The fitness rating for this trip is Grade 3. If you are completing all three sections of 225 Miles to Rome, the route is Grade 5 due to the amount of walking.

Elegant hotel in medieval village with spa and restaurant

Athena

B&B

Taxis From Pisa airport Florence airport Certaldo

HHHH

Well-situated hotel with pool and lovely garden

B&B

To Certaldo Certaldo

NIGHT 5

Trains From Pisa Florence

Palazzo San Lorenzo

SIENA

NIGHT 6

There are good (several outstanding) restaurants and trattorie everywhere on route: si mangia bene! Traditional Tuscan cooking with game, steak, beans, wild mushrooms, truffles and homemade pasta. There are some especially notable gelaterie with a wide selection of home-made icecreams.

Comfortable hotel in medieval centre

MONTERIGGIONI NIGHT 3

Pisa • Florence From Pisa airport take trains via Pisa Centrale and Empoli to Certaldo (max 1hr 45mins) or if coming from Florence direct to Certaldo (1 hr), then a taxi to San Gimignano. Please note, booking a taxi from Certaldo to San Gimignano is recommended as there are not usually taxis waiting at Certaldo station. Alternatively alight at Poggibonsi (approx. 12 mins after Certaldo), then a bus (25 mins).

NIGHT 4

Recommended Destination Airports

Restaurants, Food & Wine

HHH

COLLE DI VAL D’ELSA

Getting There

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

Terrain

Leon Bianco B&B

which perfectly complement the local Tuscan cuisine.

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 1

SAN GIMIGNANO

HHH

Comfortable; superb views and small pool in summer

SECTION 1

San Gimignano Feet Colle di Val d’Elsa 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 Day 2 Day 3 Miles 0

5

Monteriggioni

15

10

Siena

Pieve a Salti Buonconvento Buonconvento

Day 5

Day 4 20

25

35

30

Seggiano

50

55

60

Piancastagnaio

65

Hours of bright sunshine Montefiascone Rain in mm

Average daily temperature Acquapendente Lake Bolsena 95 35 max min

5

Day 10 10

15

Day 11 20

25

30

Day 12

77 25 35

40

45

Day 13 50

55

Day 14 60

68 20

65

Hours 400 Viterbo Metres 1830 350 1535 1220 915 300 610 305 0

250

70

200 150

58 15

SECTION 3

Miles 0

45

86 30 Day 9

Miles 0

Viterbo Feet 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Day 7

Day 6

40

˚F ˚C 104 40

SECTION 2 Montalcino Feet 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Montalcino Metres 1830 1535 1220 915 610 305 0

Lucignano

50 10 Ronciglione

Day 16 5

Sutri

Campagnano di Roma

Day 17 10

15

41

5

32

0

J

Day 18 20

25

30

Isola Farnese

F

M

A

M

J

Day 19

J

A

Day 20

Rome Metres 1830 1535 1220 915 610 S 305 O N 0

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL 35

40

45

50

55

D

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Timeless countryside Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

60

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

41

AT G F O O T L O O S E

I TA LY : T U S C A N Y & L A Z I O

Ancient Volcanic Landscapes Up to 89.7 miles u 8 Days u

Grade 3 - 4 u Route open: April-October* u

225 MILES ~ to ~ ROME

225

Itinerary 225 Miles to Rome (Section 2) South of Montalcino the country becomes wilder, with forests, low plateaux and ancient volcanic landscapes dominated by Monte Amiata (1,753m / 5,750ft) and the wide crater Lake of Bolsena.

Day 1 • Free day in Montalcino Centre of Brunello wine production.

Hotel with pool and panoramic views.

Day 2 • Montalcino to Pescina Paths through vineyards lead down to the superb Romanesque abbey church of Sant’Antimo. You then continue down through olive groves into the Orcia Valley, before walking up to the forested slopes of Monte Amiata (16.5 miles, 7.5-8 hrs).

Day 3 • Pescina to Piancastagnaio Walk through forest of chestnut and beech, to the ancient volcanic peak of Monte Amiata. Then continue down through forest, and a cleft in the volcanic cliffs, to Piancastagnaio, on the side of the mountain with panoramic views, where you stay at a converted monastery (12.8 miles, 6.5 hrs).

PHOTO: SARAH WELLBURN

Day 4 • Piancastagnaio-Acquapendente Tracks along low ridges with long views bring us to the ancient town of Proceno, from where you descend to the Serlate Valley before walking up to the town of Acquapendente, with its fine square and waterfalls (20.2 miles, 10 hrs).

Through wild country to Monte Amiata

Features • Second section of ATG’s 225-mile independent walking route, one of the world’s most unique, classic walks following the Via Francigena • Open rolling hills with a wealth of different landscapes, remotely situated medieval villages and walled towns • Thermal springs, lakeside beaches for swimming and opportunities for boat excursions on the lake • Ancient ‘flattened’ volcanic landscapes punctuated by the wide crater containing Lake Bolsena with its islands, beaches and fertile farms * For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

42

Day 5 • Acquapendente to Bolsena Forest tracks through the low Monte Volsinii lead to the edge of a wide ancient volcanic crater, then down to Lake Bolsena (12.4 miles, 6 hrs).

Day 6 • Bolsena to Montefiascone Ancient paths with lake views lead to panoramic Montefiascone, surmounted by a fortress. Amongst its fine churches is that of San Floriano, which houses the tomb of the bishop whose visit to the town is famously commemorated in the name of its wine: Est! Est!! Est!!!

(11.1 miles, 5.5 hrs).

Day 7 • Montefiascone to Viterbo Following one of the finest sections of paved Roman road in Italy we cross a plateau, pausing to enjoy Roman baths and thermal springs on the ancient route, before continuing to the walled city of Viterbo (11.4 miles, 5-5.5 hours).

Day 8 • Departure day, or...

Continue with Section 3 of the 225 Miles to Rome route: Approach to Rome (following pages)...

Please note: The Romans rested ‘every four days’. If you plan to walk more than one section of ‘225 Miles’ we strongly urge you to book some rest days in to your itinerary. Please contact the office for advice.

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Ancient Volcanic Landscapes Trip Information

Getting There

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

B&B

Il Silene

Price

Pisa Buonconvento ~€12 - €16 Florence Buonconvento ~€11 Rome Buonconvento ~€18 - €26

HB

NIGHT 3

Price B&B

Columbus

Day 3 10

15

20

Day 4 25

30

35

40

Day 5 45

50

˚F ˚C 104 40

55

Day 7

Day 6 65

60

75

70

95 35

Hours 400 350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

41

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

HHH

In historic centre with panoramic terrace

B&B

NIGHT 7

Tuscia

HHH

Modern hotel within the medieval city

ROME

Cesari

HHH

Quietly situated near Pantheon in central Rome

80

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

Comfortable hotel near lake

VITERBO

B&B

Montefiascone

Lake Bolsena

HHHH

Urbano V

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

D

ROME

D’Inghilterra B&B

Acquapendente

Friendly, refurbished hotel with family-run restaurant

MONTEFIASCONE

EXTENSION

Piancastagnaio

Viterbo Metres 1830 1535 1220 915 610 305 0

HH

BOLSENA

EXTENSION

Although much of the walking follows dirt roads, there are also farm tracks and smaller wooded paths, broad gravel tracks and cart tracks. Some field crossings, some thread-like grassy tracks. In the autumn, be prepared to cross a few roughly ploughed fields. May be muddy in wet weather – sufficient ankle support essential. This trip is Grade 3 - 4. If you are completing all three sections of 225 Miles to Rome, the route is Grade 5 due to the amount of walking.

HHH

Hotel Toscana

B&B

To

Buonconvento First hotel ~€ 30 Pisa First hotel ~€250 Florence First hotel ~€180 Rome Fiumicino First hotel ~€320 Rome Ciampino First hotel ~€320 Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

NIGHT 5

Taxis From

Hotel Relais San Lorenzo

ACQUAPENDENTE

Fitness: Grade 3 - 4 See page 10 for information on Grades

Day 2

Inn surrounded by Monte Amiata’s chestnut wood

Friendly hotel within private park

HB

To

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

5

HHH

PIANCASTAGNAIO

NIGHT 6

Trains From

The trip is a wine-lover’s treat! There are superb local red wines, notably

Pescina

Superb views and small pool in summer

SEGGIANO

NIGHT 4

Pisa • Florence • Rome There are buses and trains to Buonconvento from Pisa (2–3 hrs), Florence (2 hrs) and Rome (3 hrs).

From Buonconvento it is a short taxi ride to Montalcino.

Southern Tuscan food is simple and uses excellent quality, local ingredients. You will enjoy fish from Lake Bolsena – corregone, perch and trout, and vegetables from fertile volcanic soil around the lake. Rich and varied pastas, sauces with tomato and peperoncino.

Specialities include lamb with wild herbs, ricotta, sheep’s cheeses (pecorino), wild boar and truffles.

Montalcino Feet 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

HHH

Recommended Destination Airports

Restaurants, Food & Wine

Miles 0

Dei Capitani

HB

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

NIGHT 2

Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, as well as the famous Orvieto Classico from Orvieto and Est! Est!! Est!!! from Montefiascone.

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 1

MONTALCINO

Finding Your Way

Terrain

Accommodation

HHHHH

Central hotel in elegant 17th century palazzo

3 NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED)

Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

43

AT G F O O T L O O S E

I TA LY : L A Z I O

Approach to Rome u

Up to 67.5 miles

u

Grade 3

u

8 Days

u

Route open: April-October*

Itinerary 225 Miles to Rome (Section 3) Historic towns and villages now influenced by the vortex of Rome, whilst in the ancient volcanic landscapes, are evocative reminders of the Via Francigena, its ancient origins, and the millions who have travelled the route.

Day 1 • Arrive in Viterbo Free day in Viterbo, with its fine churches, papal palace and medieval quarter. Optional walk to the Villa Lante gardens (5.3 miles, 2.5 hrs).

225 MILES ~ to ~ ROME

225

Day 2 • Viterbo to Lake Vico Paths through oak and chestnut forest lead to a ridge, then down to an ancient crater and Lake Vico, with its secondary cone, Monte Venere, surmounted by a small temple to Venus. We walk through hazel groves to our lake-side hotel (9.2 miles, 4.5 hrs).

Day 3 • Lake Vico to Sutri Tracks lead down beside a river flowing from the Lake, which powers over 20 water mills, en route to the picturesque ancient citadel of Ronciglione. Lanes then lead through hazelnut groves to the ancient walled town of Sutri, birthplace of Pontius Pilate, with its atmospheric amphitheatre, frescoed church of the Madonna del Parto, and Etruscan sites (9.7 miles, 4.5 hrs).

Along the Tiber, which leads to the basilica of St Peter

Features • Third section of ATG’s 225-mile independent walking route, one of the world’s most unique, classic walks following the Via Francigena • Through ancient landscapes and towns, most of which remain largely as they were when the Via Francigena developed • Wide, rolling hills interspersed with small alluvial plains and the occasional volcanic crater • Classic, fortified hilltop villages • Ending in Rome – great capital of the ancient world

Day 4 • Sutri to Campagnano Follow tracks across low hills, with farmland and woods, before walking up to the gates of the walled town of Campagnano di Roma (16.9 miles, 8 hrs).

Day 5 • Campagnano to Isola Farnese Quiet lanes and farm tracks lead via an isolated pilgrim church to the necropolis of Etruscan Veio, then, still in unspoilt country, to the hilltop village of Isola Farnese, 11 miles from Rome (13.2 miles, 6.5 hrs).

Day 6 • Isola Farnese to Rome Start very early and you miss the worst of the traffic...to reach the relative calm of the walk-ways along the river Tiber, which you then follow before crossing the river to the Castel Sant’ Angelo and continuing to the nearby Basilica of St Peter. Stay at a very well-situated hotel in the centre of the old city (13.2 miles, 5 hours).

Day 7 • Free day in Rome

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

44

Day 8 • Departure day

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Approach to Rome Trip Information

Accommodation Hotel Tuscia B&B

Savour the wines of Vernaccia di San Gimignano, Chianti (Classico and Colli Senesi), Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Brunello di Montalcino and Est! Est!! Est!!! from Montefiascone, and Orvieto Classico.

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 1

VITERBO

Finding Your Way

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

Hotel La Bella Venere HB

Getting There

Modern hotel within the medieval city

LAKE VICO NIGHT 2

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

HHH

Recommended Destination Airports

HHH

Modern hotel on lake surrounded by Monti Cimini

Rome Fiumicino • Rome Ciampino

Trains From Rome

Lazio’s cuisine is strong, vigorous and hearty, with plenty of oil and garlicflavoured meat and game combinations. Grilled meat – lots of it (and large cuts!) – features heavily on menus. However, there are plenty of interesting vegetable dishes, many of them enhanced by herbs and spices.

~€5 - €8

Comfortable hotel in the historic centre of Sutri

Siena

Montalcino Metres 1830 1535 1220 915 610 305 0

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

Lucignano

Day 5

Buonconvento

Day 6

Day 7

CAMPAGNANO DI ROMA

Albergo da Righetto HB

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

NIGHT 4

If you have walked all the way from San Gimignano, re-live your trip through wines!

Price

Viterbo

HH

Taxis From To Price Rome airports First hotel ~€180

SECTION 1

San Gimignano Feet Colle di Val d’Elsa Monteriggioni 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4

To

Albergo Sutrium B&B

Restaurants, Food & Wine

SUTRI NIGHT 3

From both airports there are frequent connections to central Rome. From Rome Ostiense and Rome Termini stations there are regular trains to Viterbo (approx 2 hours).

HH

Simple, centrally located hotel with restaurant serving traditional Italian food

35 Milesyou 5 15 20 25 30 40 45 50details 55 0 60 10 On booking will be sent further trip information: of how to get to/from the SECTION route, what to bring and other practicalities.

2 Viterbo

Pescina (Seggiano)

Metres Bolsena Montefiascone Fitness: GradeAcquapendente 3 See pageLake10 for information on Grades 1830

Piancastagnaio

Day 2

5

10

Day 3

15

20

25

Day 4

30

35

40

Day 5

45

50

55

Day 6

65

60

Day 7

75

70

80

Albergo Tempio di Apollo

HH

Comfortable hotel in rural setting

85

SECTION 3

Viterbo Feet 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 Miles 0

Lake Vico

Day 2 5

Sutri

Campagnano di Roma

Day 3 10

15

Day 4 20

25

Day 5 35

30

40

˚F ˚C 104 40

Rome Metres 1830 1535 1220 915 610 305 0

Isola Farnese

Day 6 45

50

55

60

95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

Albergo Cesari

HHH

Quietly situated near the Pantheon in central Rome

350

86 30

41

ROME B&B

Miles 0

ISOLA FARNESE B&B

1535 1220 915 610 305 0

The paths are varied: Etruscan roads, Roman roads, mule paths, wooded paths, cart tracks and dirt roads. On certain days the walk takes you into the hills where the paths cross a more rugged terrain that may be muddy in wet weather – please make sure that your foot-wear provides sufficient ankle support. This trip is Grade 3. If you are completing all three sections of 225 Miles to Rome, the route is Grade 5 due to the amount of walking.

NIGHTS 6 & 7

Montalcino Feet 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

NIGHT 5

Terrain

D

2 NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED)

Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

45

AT G F O O T L O O S E

Itinerary

I TA LY : T U S C A N Y

(Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary)

Tuscany & Siena u

Up to 37.3 miles

u

Grade 2+

7 or 5 Days

u

Route open: April-October*

(47 miles with pre-extension)

u

Optional pre-extension to start of itinerary: Certaldo to San Gimignano – Strade bianche lined with cypress trees and paths through vineyards, olive groves and woods, lead to San Gimignano (9.7 miles, 5 hrs).

Day 1 (1) • Arrive in San Gimignano The ‘Medieval Manhattan' is irresistibly charming and perfectly preserved. It houses a fine array of religious and secular frescoes and monuments.

Day 2 • Free day in San Gimignano Opportunities to explore the walled medieval town. Optional circular walk in the countryside around San Gimignano, offering superb views of the town (5.2 miles, 2.5 hrs).

PHOTO: KATE WHINNEY

Day 3 (2) • S. Gim. to Colle Val d’Elsa Walk across low hills with vines, woods, olive groves, and views of an almost unchanged medieval landscape...to the ancient walled town of Colle di Val d’Elsa, renowned for its perfectly preserved medieval ‘tunnel’ streets (also noted for its crystal glass and icecreams!) (8.7 miles, 4.5 hrs).

Hills crowned with medieval cities – San Gimignano

Features • Walk from hill-top San Gimignano to Siena • Timeless countryside, as seen in the background of medieval paintings • Hills crowned with medieval cities and villages – San Gimignano, Colle di Val d’Elsa and Monteriggioni • Patchwork of vineyards and olive groves, ancient forests, fields of wheat and barley • Ancient festivals and traditions preserved in the towns and villages • Renowned Tuscan cuisine and wine

Day 4 (3) • Colle to Monteriggioni Follow farm tracks and gravel lanes across fertile farmland, with olive groves and vineyards, to the Romanesque abbey of Abbadia Isola, and on to Monteriggioni, a tiny medieval village, with 85 inhabitants, encircled by 13th century walls with 14 watchtowers (11.6 miles, 6 hrs).

Day 5 (4) • Monteriggioni to Siena Through forests, past a castle, open farmland and wooded slopes. Wonderful views on the approach to Siena, the best-preserved great medieval city in Europe (11.8 miles, 6 hrs).

Day 6 • Free day in Siena Opportunities for exploring the medieval city, with its abundance of outstanding 14th and 15th century art and architecture, from the famous Piazza del Campo, scene of the Palio horserace, to galleries filled with iconic medieval masterpieces, and the great cathedral. There are also many excellent shops, bars and restaurants! Optional Siena city walk (3.5 hrs).

Day 7 (5) • Departure day

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

46

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

From Pisa airport take trains via Pisa Centrale and Empoli to Certaldo (max 1hr 45mins) or if coming from Florence direct to Certaldo (1 hr), then a taxi to San Gimignano. Please note, booking a taxi from Certaldo to San Gimignano is recommended as there are not usually taxis waiting at Certaldo station. Alternatively alight at Poggibonsi (approx. 12 mins after Certaldo), then a bus (25 mins).

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

Trains

Restaurants, Food & Wine There are good (several outstanding) restaurants and trattorie everywhere on route: si mangia bene! Traditional Tuscan cooking with game, steak, beans, wild mushrooms, truffles and homemade pasta. There are some especially notable gelaterie with a wide selection of home-made icecreams.

To

Price

Pisa Florence

Certaldo Certaldo

~€7 ~€6

Pisa airport San Gim. Florence airport San Gim. Certaldo San Gim.

5

~€100 ~€100 ~€ 30

20

Day 5 35

30

˚F ˚C 104 40

40

Romantik Hotel Monteriggioni

HHHH Well-situated hotel with lovely garden and pool

SIENA B&B

Athena

HHHH Modern hotel within the city walls

B&B

SIENA

Grand Hotel Continental

HHHHH

Luxurious, centrally located, well-appointed hotel

45 Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

Elegant hotel in medieval village with spa and restaurant

Siena Metres 610 305 0

Monteriggioni

Day 4

NIGHTS 5 & 6

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

25

HHHH

Upgraded rooms for Superior route

NIGHTS 5 & 6

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

Colle Val d'Elsa

15

10

Comfortable hotel in medieval centre

Palazzo San Lorenzo

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

Day 3

HHH

Superior rooms are larger

B&B

Price

Hilly countryside is crossed by strade bianche (small gravel roads), mule tracks, farm and woodland tracks and paths, with some asphalt on the approach to towns, notably Siena.

Miles 0

Leon Bianco

COLLE DI VAL D’ELSA

NIGHT 4

To

Fitness: Grade 2+ See page 10 for information on Grades

Certaldo San Gimignano Feet 2000 1000 0 PRE-EXTENSION Day 2

Family-run hotel in medieval centre

MONTERIGGIONI

From

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

HH

SAN GIMIGNANO

Taxis

Renowned local Chianti wines, the white Vernaccia di San Gimignano and the delicious dessert wine Vin Santo.

Terrain

From

B&B

Pisa • Florence

Il Castello

B&B

Recommended Destination Airports

CERTALDO

B&B

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

PRE-EXTENSION

Getting There

NIGHTS 1 & 2

Finding Your Way

Accommodation

NIGHT 3

Tuscany & Siena Trip Information

350

86 30

300

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

Certaldo optional pre-extension

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

San Gimignano Colle Val d’Elsa Monteriggioni

41

5

32

0

Siena 0

5

10 miles

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

D

5-day itinerary: 1 night in each hotel Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

Cycling itinerary also available: See pages 68-69 for details.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

47

AT G F O O T L O O S E

Itinerary

I TA LY : T U S C A N Y

Siena to Florence u

Up to 67.6 miles

u

Grade 3 - 3+

u

8 Days

u

Route open: April-October*

Day 1 • Arrive in Siena The best-preserved great medieval city in Europe. Magnificent cathedral, the Piazza del Campo (scene of the Palio horse-race), and an abundance of outstanding 14th and 15th century art and architecture.

Day 2 • Siena to Dievole Follow tracks across hills with stonewalled olive groves, oak forest, and world-renowned Chianti Classico vineyards, to Dievole, set amongst its own vineyards (12.4 miles, 6 hrs).

PHOTO: KATE WHINNEY

Day 3 • Dievole to Gaiole-in-Chianti Cross a valley to the fortified Romanesque church of San Polo in Rosso, where paths lead to Gaiole-inChianti, a centre of Chianti wine production, overlooked by the Castello di Spaltenna and its 11th century Romanesque church (7.9 miles, 4 hrs).

Picturesque Chianti hills and vineyards

Features • Walk from Siena, the best-preserved great medieval city in Europe, to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance • Picturesque Chianti hills, with vineyards, olive groves and forests, punctuated by hilltop castles, fortified stone villages and cypress trees • Traverse the Chianti Classico wine-growing area and sample the range of magnificent wines, with food to match!

• Enjoy two supreme art capitals – with over 60% of the greatest works of art in the Western World

Day 4 • Gaiole-in-Chianti to Panzano Farm roads (strade bianche) lead to a ridge, from where a track descends to the valley, continuing past stone farmhouses and vineyards to a second ridge with extensive views, and the characteristic medieval hill town of Panzano (13.2 miles, 6 hrs).

Day 5 • Free day in Panzano Short optional walk to Greve-in-Chianti, a busy centre of the wine industry, with some fine medieval buildings and arcaded central piazza (5.1 miles, 2.5 hrs).

Day 6 • Panzano to Strada-in-Chianti Undulating paths across fertile valleys, with two fine castles built to protect the rich wine estates, end with a climb to Strada-in-Chianti (15.2 miles, 8.5 hrs).

Day 7 • Strada-in-Chianti to Florence Tracks and strade bianche lead through farmland to the outskirts of Florence, before minor roads and pathways for the final two miles emerge at a panoramic view of the city and descent to the Ponte Vecchio (12.7 miles, 6.5 hrs).

‘Birthplace of the Renaissance’ and with the Uffizi, Pitti galleries, cathedral, churches and museums, Florence is the world’s greatest ‘Art City’.

Day 8 • Departure day

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

48

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Siena to Florence Trip Information

Accommodation

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

B&B

Villa in working wine estate with swimming pool

(depending on type of train)

Taxis From To Pisa airport First hotel Florence airport First hotel Rome airports First hotel

Price ~€150 ~€130 ~€350

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

NIGHT 3

B&B B&B

HHHH

Medieval castle with swimming pools and Romanesque church

Fattoria Valle

HHH

Converted farmhouse with outdoor pool

PANZANO

Villa Le Barone

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

HHHH

Patrician villa with pool, gardens and tennis court

STRADA-IN-CHIANTI

Il Leccio B&B

NIGHT 6

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Restored town house off the main square

PANZANO B&B

Siena Siena Siena

HHH

Castello di Spaltenna

HB

Price ~€10 ~€ 9 ~€16 - €28

NIGHT 3

To

NIGHTS 4 & 5

Trains From Pisa Florence Rome

Fonte del Cieco

GAIOLE-IN-CHIANTI

NIGHTS 4 & 5

There are trains to Siena from Pisa (2 hrs) via Pisa Centrale and Empoli; from Florence (1.5 hrs); and from Rome (3–4 hrs) via Chiusi or Grosseto.

Superb red wines of the area,

RESIDENZA D’EPOCA

17th century villa with pool Superior rooms are larger

Fitness: Grade 2+ - 3+ See page 10 for information on Grades

Grevein-Chianti Panzano

Stradain-Chianti

Florence

Panzano

Day 2

Day 3

5

10

10 miles

15

Day 4 20

25

Day 6

Day 5 30

35

40

˚F ˚C 104 40

Florence

50

45

60

55

65

350

86 30

300

Greve

77 25

250

Panzano

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Gaiolein-Chianti

Dievole

Siena

41

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

B&B

NIGHT 7

HHHH

19th century palazzina next to the River Arno

FLORENCE

Degli Orafi

HHHH

Breathtakingly central location!

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

Stradain-Chianti

Day 7

Metres 610 305 0

River Hotel

B&B

Gaiolein-Chianti

Dievole

Siena

FLORENCE

NIGHT 7

Paths through vineyards and olive groves; farm and forest paths/tracks rising to 2,925ft. Small gravel roads and some asphalt in and around towns.

5

HHHH

GAIOLE-IN-CHIANTI

Traditional Tuscan cooking following the seasons with game, steak, beans, wild mushrooms, truffles, homemade pasta, sheep’s cheeses, wonderfully colourful fruits and vegetables. If you are interested in ingredients (or not!) a visit to Florence’s food market is highly recommended.

0

Villa Dievole

Pisa • Florence • Rome

Good trattorie everywhere on route and some very good restaurants, including a number in the Guide Michelin.

Miles 0

Modern hotel within the city walls

Recommended Destination Airports

Restaurants, Food & Wine

Feet 2000 1000 0

HHHH

DIEVOLE NIGHT 2

Getting There

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

Terrain

Athena B&B

especially Chianti Classico and the white Vernaccia from nearby San Gimignano.

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 1

SIENA

Finding Your Way

D

NUMBER OF NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED) Standard: 0 / Superior: 2

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

Cycling itinerary also available: See pages 68-69 for details.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

49

AT G F O O T L O O S E

Itinerary

I TA LY : T U S C A N Y

(Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary)

Southern Tuscany u

Up to 69.9 miles

u

Grade 3

8 or 5 Days

u

Route open: April-October*

(77.2 miles with extension)

u

Day 1 • Arrive in Siena The best-preserved great medieval city in Europe.

Day 2 • Siena to Lucignano Walk south from Siena following the route of the early medieval Via Francigena, across the open hills of the crete, to Lucignano (14.5 miles, 7 hrs).

Day 3 • Lucignano to Buonconvento (Day 1 – Arrive Buonconvento) Walk through pastures, vineyards and olive groves overlooking the Arbia and Ombrone valleys, to walled Buonconvento, its small museum housing 14th/15th century masterpieces (9.8 miles, 5 hrs).

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER WHINNEY

Day 4 • Excursion Walk to visit one of the finest abbeys in Europe – the Benedictine Monte Oliveto Maggiore, with its superb cloister of magnificent frescoes by Signorelli and Sodoma (return journey 11.6 miles, 6 hrs).

The delightful Romanesque abbey church of Sant’ Antimo

Features • Walk from medieval Siena to Pienza, the first Renaissance ‘city’ • Enjoy the best of Southern Tuscany, with its superb art and architecture • Open rolling countryside with extensive views and the picturesquely eroded crete • Some of the best wine-producing areas in Tuscany – Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano – with food to match!

• Exquisite abbeys of Sant’ Antimo and Monte Oliveto Maggiore * For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

50

Day 5 (2) • Buonconvento to Montalcino Over open hills and through the famous vineyards of Brunello to panoramically situated Montalcino, centre of the Brunello wine area and home to a 14th century castle and excellent museum (11.4 or 13.1 miles, 5.5 or 6.5 hrs).

Day 6 (3) • Montalcino to Bagno Vignoni Walk through the vineyards of Brunello to the superb Romanesque abbeychurch of Sant’Antimo, built of alabaster and onyx. Then on to the Orcia valley and Bagno Vignoni, with its Roman thermal baths in central piazza (11.2 or 14.1 miles, 5.5 or 7 hrs).

Day 7 (4) • Bagno Vignoni to Pienza Walk along the Orcia valley then across open farmland to Pienza, birthplace of Aeneas Piccolomini. When elected Pope Pius II in 1458, he commissioned the architect Rossellino to convert his birthplace…into the first Renaissance city. A five minute walk from end to end, Pienza has a delightful papal palace, ‘cathedral’ and museum (5.8 miles, 2.5 hrs).

Day 8 (5) • Departure day, or...

Optional extension to Montepulciano: Walk to the centre of the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wine district via the church of San Biagio, and explore Montepulciano’s fine palazzi, cathedral, frescoed churches and museum (8.3 miles, 4 hrs).

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Southern Tuscany Trip Information

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Terrain

Fitness: Grade 3 See page 10 for information on Grades

Open rolling hills with spectacular views. Paths along farm tracks, ancient drove roads and gravel lanes.

Lucignano

Pieve a Salti Pieve a Salti Monte Oliveto Buonconvento Maggiore

Siena Feet 2000 1000 0

Miles 0

Day 2 5

Day 3 10

15

20

Day 4 25

30

Montalcino Sant'Antimo

Day 5 35

40

Day 6 45

˚F ˚C 104 40

50

55

65

60

70

75

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

..... 5-day route

Montepulciano/ Montefollonico Pienza Metres 610 305 0 Day 7 Extension

Bagno Vignoni

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

41

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

D

B&B B&B

NIGHT 1

B&B

NIGHT 2

HHH

Family-run hotel converted from traditional fattoria

B&B (8 DAY) B&B (5 DAY)

NIGHTS 3 & 4

Fattoria Pieve a Salti

HHH

In a beautiful setting, with indoor and outdoor pools

BUONCONVENTO

Il Ghibellino

HHH

Family-run hotel in the centre of town

MONTALCINO B&B

Dei Capitani

HHH

Comfortable hotel with superb views; small pool in summer

BAGNO VIGNONI HB

Le Terme

HHH

Modern hotel overlooking Roman baths

PIENZA B&B

Residence San Gregorio

HHH

Converted theatre close to centre with swimming pool

PIENZA

Il Chiostro B&B

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

18th century villa, close to the historic centre

BUONCONVENTO

HHHH

Converted monastery with views and pool in summer

MONTEPULCIANO

Il Marzocco B&B

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

HHH

Borgo Antico

HHH

Family-run 16th century hotel with panoramic views

MONTEPULCIANO

Albergo Duomo B&B

Superb red wines of the area, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, complement the cuisine.

Santa Caterina

HHH

Friendly hotel in excellent, central location

MONTEFOLLONICO

La Chiusa B&B

Good trattorie everywhere on route and some very good restaurants.

Traditional Tuscan cooking with game, steak, beans, wild mushrooms, truffles and homemade pasta.

Price ~€150 ~€130 ~€350 ~€220 ~€180 ~€300 - €350 ~€ 80

NIGHTS 3 & 4

Taxis From To Pisa Siena Florence Siena Rome Siena Pisa Buonconvento Florence Buonconvento Rome Buonconvento Siena Buonconvento

Simple hotel in medieval city centre

Superior rooms are larger

NIGHT 5

Restaurants, Food & Wine

To Price Siena ~€10 Siena ~€ 9 Siena ~€16 - €28 Buonconvento ~€11 - €16 Buonconvento ~€11 Buonconvento ~€18 - €34

NIGHT 6

Trains From Pisa Florence Rome Pisa Florence Rome

HH

LUCIGNANO

NIGHT 7

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

Piccolo Hotel Etruria

SIENA

NIGHT 7

Pisa • Florence • Rome There are buses and trains to Siena from Pisa (2 hrs), Florence (1–1.5 hrs) and Rome (3 hrs). There are buses and trains to Buonconvento (5-day route) from Pisa (3 hrs), Florence (2–3 hrs) and Rome (3 hrs).

EXTENSION

Recommended Destination Airports

EXTENSION

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 1

SIENA

Getting There

EXTENSION

Finding Your Way

Accommodation

HHH

Converted mill with restaurant

NUMBER OF NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED) 8 DAY • Standard: 1 / Superior: 1 5 DAY • Standard: 1 / Superior: 1

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

5-day itinerary: Buonconvento to Pienza Cycling itinerary also available: See pages 68-69 for details.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

51

AT G F O O T L O O S E

I TA LY : T U S C A N Y, UMBRIA & LAZIO

Unknown Tuscany & Orvieto Up to 53 miles u 8 or 5 Days u

Grade 2 - 3 u Route open: April-October* u

Itinerary

(Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary)

Day 1 (1) • Arrive in Pitigliano Dramatic approach to Pitigliano on foot (1 mile) via 2,500-year-old Etruscan lanes is strongly recommended. Alternatively this walk can be done as an excursion after arrival (2 miles).

Day 2 (2) • Pitigliano to Sovana Free morning to explore crag-top Pitigliano, its Etruscan houses, medieval fortress and synagogue.

Then follow an Etruscan lane to a small plateau, with pastures and vines, to the charming village of Sovana (4.9 miles, 3 hrs).

Day 3 • Free day in Sovana Visit Sovana’s fine Romanesque churches. Walk to see the outstanding Etruscan necropolis, including the Tomba della Sirena, restored by the ATG Trust (2.5 miles).

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER WHINNEY

Day 4 (2) • Sovana to San Quirico Paths across farmland lead to an isolated church and fine Etruscan lane that descends into a gorge, from which rises crag-top Sorano. After exploring Sorano, paths along the gorge lead to the troglodyte habitations at Vitozza and the village of San Quirico (10.3 miles, 5 hrs).

Fine views of the lake on the approach to Bolsena

Features • Walk from picturesque Pitigliano to the crag-top town of Orvieto • Important 2,500-year-old Etruscan sites and deep-hewn lanes, hidden in wooded valleys and ancient volcanic landscapes • Panoramic views along historic routes, gorges and lakes with opportunities for swimming • Private boat ride across Lake Bolsena, and – NEW – exploration of its unique features (weather permitting) • Romanesque churches, castles, temples and troglodyte dwellings, and finally Orvieto with its magnificent cathedral * For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

52

Day 5 (3) • San Quirico to Bolsena Cart tracks across farmland lead to an escarpment, where paths descend towards the small town of Latera. A climb through chestnut woods to the rim of a volcanic crater offers superb views. Tracks lead down to Lake Bolsena (10.4 miles, 5.5 hrs), from where a private boat takes you across the lake to Bolsena (town). Optional exploration of Lake's unique features (weather permitting).

Day 6 • Free day in Bolsena Explore Bolsena, its ancient streets, castle, Etruscan temples and church, and catacombs of Santa Cristina, site of the miracle of Corpus Christi.

Swimming in the lake. Optional walk from Acquapendente through the low Monti Volsinii (12.2 miles, 6 hrs).

Day 7 (4) • Bolsena to Orvieto An old Etruscan lane leads up through woods to a plateau and across farmland. The first view of Orvieto, situated high on its extinct volcano, is unforgettable (10.7 miles, 5.5 hrs).

Don’t miss the magnificent cathedral with frescoes.

Day 8 (5) • Departure day

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Unknown Tuscany & Orvieto Trip Information Accommodation

To

Price

Orbetello

~€9 - €18

Taxis From To Rome airports First hotel Orbetello First hotel

San Quirico

Bolsena Acquapendente

Feet 2000 1000 0

Latera

Sorano

Day 2 0

Day 3 5

Day 4 10

Day 5 15

20

by boat 25

Day 6

30

35

˚F ˚C 104 40 0

5

10

15 miles

Orvieto

Bolsena

Acquapendente Orvieto

Sorano

40

50

45

55

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

Metres 610 305 0

Day 7

Simple hotel in town centre

B&B ROOM ONLY B&B

Columbus

HHHH

Comfortable hotel near lake BOLSENA

B&B

Royal

HHHH Modern hotel near lake, with pool in summer

B&B

Corso

HHH Historic building in centre of old city ORVIETO

B&B

Palazzo Piccolomini

HHHH

16th century hotel overlooking medieval piazza ROME

Cesari

HHH

Quietly situated near Pantheon in central Rome ROME

D’Inghilterra

HHHHH

Central hotel in elegant 17th century palazzo

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

San Quirico Sovana

HHH

BOLSENA

B&B

Dirt roads, farm tracks and mule paths across hills and plateaux, via vineyards, through gorges and narrow wooded valleys. A fascinating volcanic landscape.

Sovana

Palazzo in town centre

Agnelli

B&B

Fitness: Grade 2 - 3 See page 10 for information on Grades

Pitigliano

NIGHT 1 NIGHT 7

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Terrain

HHHH

ORVIETO

NIGHT 7

Morellino di Scansano, a fruity fullbodied DOC red and Bianco di Pitigliano DOC fragrant dry white,

NIGHTS 5 & 6

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

Stylish rooms in historical centre; excellent restaurant

Upgraded rooms for Superior route

Price ~€230 ~€150

EXTENSION

Trains From Rome

Local specialities include acquacotta (a rich tomato based soup), sweet Maremma lamb, wild boar and other game; dishes influenced by an ancient Jewish tradition in Pitigliano; and fresh fish, including the regionally unique corregone and eels, from Lake Bolsena.

Le Camere del Ceccottino Guest House

SAN QUIRICO

EXTENSION

Restaurants, Food & Wine

Family-run hotel in historic town centre

Sovana Hotel & Resort

B&B

Rome Fiumicino • Rome Ciampino From both airports there are frequent connections to central Rome, from where there are trains to Orbetello (2hrs), then a bus (€3, 4-5 departures daily) or taxi (~€150) to Pitigliano.

HH

SOVANA

B&B

Recommended Destination Airports

NIGHTS 2 & 3

Getting There

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

NIGHT 4

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

Guastini

PITIGLIANO

NIGHTS 5 & 6

often aged in Etruscan caves below the town. Orvieto Classico DOC needs no introduction. Local wines including Est! Est!! Est!!! from Montefiascone.

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 1

PITIGLIANO

Finding Your Way

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

Bolsena Pitigliano

41

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

D

5-day itinerary: 1 night in Pitigliano, San Quirico, Bolsena or Orvieto Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

Cycling itinerary also available: See pages 68-69 for details.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

53

AT G F O O T L O O S E

I TA LY : U M B R I A & L A Z I O

Roman Roads to Orvieto Up to 50.9 miles u 8 or 5 Days u

Grade 2 u Route open: April-October* u

Itinerary

(Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary)

Day 1 (1) • Arrive in Viterbo Walled city with historic papal palace, cathedral, fine Romanesque churches and medieval quarter.

Day 2 • Free day in Viterbo Opportunities for city walk, exploring Viterbo (2 miles, 1 hr). Walk (or bus) to Bagnaia to visit the Villa Lante Gardens, Vignola’s Renaissance masterpiece, using the natural flow of water (closed Mondays) (5.3 miles, 2.5 hrs).

Day 3 (2) • Viterbo to Montefiascone Gravel lanes lead across a plain, via ancient thermal pools (swim!) to a fine section of paved Roman Via Cassia…to panoramically situated Montefiascone (2,070ft), with its castle, and church of San Flaviano with a famously inscribed tomb of Bishop Fugger (11.6 miles, 6 hrs).

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER WHINNEY

Day 4 (3) • Montefiascone to Bolsena Follow the route of the ancient Via Cassia until it disappears into woods.

Then paths and farm tracks with fine views lead down along sand beaches beside the lake (swim!)…to Bolsena (1,080ft) (11.1 miles, 5.5 hrs).

Hill-top Montefiascone, with wonderful lake views

Features • Walk from the papal city of Viterbo to magnificently situated Orvieto • Ancient ‘flattened’ volcanic landscapes punctuated by the wide crater containing Lake Bolsena with its islands, beaches and fertile farms • Thermal springs, lakeside beaches for swimming, and opportunities for boat excursions on the lake • Villa Lante Gardens – some of Italy’s finest • Succession of lively towns with historic medieval centres – castles, cathedrals, palaces, Romanesque churches and picturesque alleys

Day 5 • Free day in Bolsena Explore Bolsena, its ancient streets, castle, Etruscan temples, and ‘triple’ church of Santa Cristina, site of the miracle of Corpus Christi (1263). Lake excursions and swimming. Optional walk from Acquapendente through the low Monti Volsinii (12.2 miles, 6 hrs).

Day 6 (4) • Bolsena to Orvieto Follow the old pilgrim route across a high plateau (2,000ft) with extensive views, towards Orvieto. The first view of the crag-top city is unforgettable (10.7 miles, 5.5 hrs).

Day 7 • Free day in Orvieto Optional city walk (approx. 2 hrs), including Orvieto’s magnificent cathedral and Capella della Madonna di San Brizio, with outstanding frescoes by Fra Angelico and Signorelli, Etruscan tombs, museums and remarkable well (completed in 1537 by Antonio Sangallo) – ‘one of the second seven wonders of the world’.

Day 8 (5) • Departure day

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

54

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

To

Price

Viterbo

~€5 - €8

Taxis From To Price Rome airports First hotel ~€180

Magnificent Orvieto Cathedral

Local white wines include Orvieto Classico and Est! Est!! Est!!!

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

Terrain

NIGHTS 6 & 7

Very interesting cuisine combining influences of robust Tuscan cooking with strong flavours of Roman cooking and the delicate cuisine of Umbria, with truffles, fish from Lake Bolsena, etc., (we visit this area just to eat!). Some notable trattorie en route, and outstanding restaurants in Viterbo and Orvieto.

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER WHINNEY

Restaurants, Food & Wine

NIGHTS 6 & 7

NIGHTS 4 & 5

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays. Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

B&B B&B

In historic centre with panoramic terrace

BOLSENA

Columbus

HHHH

Modern hotel close to lakeside

BOLSENA

Royal

HHHH Near lakeside, with pool in summer

ORVIETO

Corso

HHH Historic building in city centre

ORVIETO

Palazzo Piccolomini

HHHH

16th century hotel overlooking medieval Piazza Ranieri

˚F ˚C 104 40

10 miles

95 35

Acquapendente Orvieto

Bolsena Lake Bolsena

Bagnoregio

Isola Bisentina

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Ferentum

Bagnaia

Viterbo

41

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

B&B

HHH

Quietly situated near the Pantheon in central Rome

ROME

D’Inghilterra

HHHHH

Central hotel in elegant 17th century palazzo

350

Montefiascone Tuscania

Cesari

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

ROME

B&B

EXTENSION EXTENSION

5

HHH

Fitness: Grade 2 See page 10 for information on Grades

Roman/Etruscan roads. Volcanic ash paths, farm tracks, occasional mule and forest paths and (near towns) stretches of asphalt.

0

Modern hotel within the medieval city

Urbano V

B&B

Trains From Rome

HHH

MONTEFIASCONE

B&B

Rome Fiumicino • Rome Ciampino From both airports there are frequent connections to central Rome. From Rome Ostiense and Rome Termini stations there are regular trains to Viterbo (approx 2 hours).

Tuscia

B&B

Recommended Destination Airports

VITERBO

B&B

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHTS 1 & 2

Getting There

NIGHT 3

Finding Your Way

Accommodation

NIGHTS 4 & 5

Roman Roads to Orvieto Trip Information

D

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

5-day itinerary: One night at each stop on route Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay

anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

Cycling itinerary also available: See pages 68-69 for details.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

55

AT G F O O T L O O S E

I TA LY : S O U T H E R N L A K E S

Southern Lakes u

Up to 60.4 miles

u

Grade 2+ - 3

u

8 Days

u

Route open: April-October*

Itinerary Day 1 • Arrive in Trevignano... ...to stay at a fine, restored villa with views across Lake Bracciano.

Day 2 • Trevignano to Ronciglione Walk through hazel groves and beech woods; and along pleasant tracks and lanes with impressive views of Lake Bracciano...en route to Sutri (9.5 miles, 5 hours). After visiting Sutri with its famous frescoed pilgrim church of the Madonna del Parto and impressive amphitheatre hewn from solid rock, the onward walk to Ronciglione is along easy paths (5.2 miles, 2.5 hrs).

PHOTO: PETER LEWIS

Day 3 • Ronciglione to Viterbo Walk to Lake Vico (1,600ft), then follow a track up through oak forest to the rim of the ancient crater (2,935ft) and the Monti Cimini. From here, walk down through chestnut groves and forest to the walled city of Viterbo (1,300ft), (12.3 miles, 6 hours). Or: Optional visit to the splendid Villa Farnese at Caprarola, with a transfer afterwards to Lake Vico for the walk (7.3 miles, 3.5 hrs) to Viterbo.

Magnificent views across Lake Bolsena

Features • Three volcanic crater lakes: Bracciano, Vico, Bolsena – each very different • Paths across low hills: Monti Sabatini, Cimini and Volsinii • Two of Italy’s finest historic gardens: Villa Lante and Villa Farnese • Places, works of art and buildings of world-class interest • Interesting, excellent cuisine and local wines

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

56

Day 4 • Viterbo to Montefiascone Optional visit to the elegant 16th century garden of the Villa Lante, then walk across a plateau with long views, past thermal Roman baths and along superbly preserved, paved Roman road (7.7 miles, 4 hours). Stay in the medieval centre of Montefiascone. Or walk all the way from Viterbo to Montefiascone (11.6 miles, 6 hrs).

Day 5 • Montefiascone to Bolsena Walk along paths with panoramic views across the wide waters of Lake Bolsena, following the route, with some original paved stretches, of the ancient Roman road; before descending across meadows and through woods to the lakeside, and on to the ancient town of Bolsena (11.1 miles, 5.5 hrs).

Day 6 • Bolsena to Orvieto Walk up to the castle through Etruscan, Roman and medieval levels of Bolsena, then follow Roman, Etruscan and medieval ways across a plateau to the great cragtop city of Orvieto, where you stay in the medieval city (10.7 miles, 5.5 hrs).

Day 7 • Free day to explore Orvieto, with its magnificent cathedral, doublehelix well of San Patrizio, Etruscan necropolis, museums, elegant cafes and bars, and good shopping. A city walk is included in the Route Book.

Day 8 • Departure day

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Southern Lakes Trip Information

Accommodation

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

5

20

25

35

30

95 35

Bagnoregio

Montefiascone

Tuscania

Ferentum Bagnaia

Viterbo Lake Vico

Ronciglione

Trevignano Romano Lake Bracciano

0

5

10 miles

40

45

HB B&B

Urbano V

HHH

Centrally located in the medieval quarter

B&B

Hotel Columbus

HHHH

Modern lakeside hotel

60

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

B&B

Comfortable lakeside hotel with pool

ORVIETO

Hotel Corso B&B

NIGHT 5 NIGHTS 6 & 7

HHHH

HHH

Historic building in city centre

ORVIETO

Palazzo Piccolomini

HHHH

16th century hotel overlooking medieval piazza

NUMBER OF NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED) Standard: 1 / Superior: 1

350

86 30

41

Hotel Royal

B&B

Orvieto Metres 915 610 305 0

55

50

Average daily temperature max min

Bolsena

Isola Bisentina

Day 6

Day 5

Day 4

˚F ˚C 104 40

Orvieto

Lake Bolsena

Bolsena

Montefiascone

Day 3 15

NIGHT 2 NIGHT 5

Viterbo Bagnaccio

10

MONTEFIASCONE

NIGHTS 6 & 7

Low volcanic hills with long views across lakes, established paths through woods and vineyards, farm tracks, occasional (near towns) stretches of asphalt.

Miles 0

Standard hotel in the heart of Viterbo

BOLSENA

Ancient Volcanic Crater: Lake Vico

Fitness: Grade 2+ - 3 See page 10 for information on Grades

Day 2

HHH

BOLSENA

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Ronciglione

Country house in historical centre of town

Tuscia

B&B

Taxi prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

La Canonica

VITERBO NIGHT 3

From Rome it is very easy to reach Trevignano Romano. From Roma San Pietro station there are halfhourly trains to Anguillara (43 mins/ €2-3), from where you can either take a bus (40 mins/€1.50) or a taxi (~€40) to Trevignano. A taxi from Rome airports will cost approx. €150, journey time 1 hour.

NIGHT 4

Rome Fiumicino • Rome Ciampino

Very interesting cuisine combining influences of very strong flavours of Roman cooking – spicy pasta and hearty meat dishes; and the delicate cuisine of Umbria, with truffles, fish from the lakes (we visit this area just to eat!). Some notable trattorie en route, and outstanding restaurants in Viterbo and Orvieto. Local white wines include Orvieto Classico and Est! Est!! Est!!!

Sutri

Friendly, boutique hotel with wonderful views over Lake Bracciano

RONCIGLIONE

Recommended Destination Airports

Restaurants, Food & Wine

Feet Trevignano 3000 Romano 2000 1000 0

HHH

Getting There

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

Terrain

Albergo Borgo Vistalago B&B

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 1

TREVIGNANO ROMANO

Finding Your Way

D

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

57

AT G F O O T L O O S E

Itinerary

I TA LY : U M B R I A

(Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary)

Umbria & Assisi u

Up to 49 miles

u

Grade 3

u

8 or 5 Days

u

Route open: Apr-Jun; Aug-Oct*

Day 1 • Arrive in Spoleto Elegant and medieval city with important Romanesque churches and a 12th century cathedral with frescoes by Fra Filippo Lippi.

Day 2 • Spoleto to Poreta From Spoleto, follow a scenic disused railway line with long views across the Umbra Valley, then paths that climb and fall between small villages, through woodland, olive groves and farmland, lead to the tiny hamlet of Poreta (11.5 miles, 5.5 hrs).

Day 3 • Poreta to San Luca From Poreta follow small lanes and tracks to Campello Alto, a delightful medieval hill-top village, with wonderful views. Then descend to the valley passing the limpid waters of the Roman Fonti di Clitunno, and follow farm tracks and lanes across the plain to San Luca (9.9 miles, 5 hrs). Stay at a fine villa surrounded by vineyards producing some of Italy's finest, though little known, red wines made from the Sagrantino grape.

Day 4 • San Luca to Bevagna (8-day)

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER WHINNEY

(Day 1 – Arrive Montefalco; Day 2 Montefalco to Bevagna)

Some of the finest Umbrian hill towns en route – Spello

Features • Walk from Spoleto to Assisi, the birthplace of St Francis • Tranquil meadows, woods, vineyards and olive groves – Italy’s ‘green heart’ • Superlative frescoes • Flower-filled outcrops of the Apennines • Magnificent Sagrantino wines • Delicious Umbrian cuisine

Walk up through the Sagrantino vineyards to hilltop Montefalco, ‘the balcony of Umbria’. Visit the superbly frescoed Church of San Francesco before continuing on down through renowned vineyards to the little walled town of Bevagna (9.4 miles, 5 hrs).

(5-day itinerary: 5.4 miles, 2.5 hrs)

Day 5 (3) • Bevagna to Spello After visiting Bevagna’s Roman theatre and baths, walk across the valley to Spello where there is time to explore the Roman and Medieval town (7.2 miles, 3.5 hrs).

Day 6 (4) • Spello to Assisi Set off early to climb the high flowerfilled pastures of Monte Subasio (1,278m / 4,192ft), or take a ride to near the top, enjoying fabulous views, before descending a mountain spur to enter Assisi on the stony pilgrim path once frequented by St Francis (11 miles, 6 hrs).

Day 7 • Free day in Assisi Free day to explore Assisi, or visit the nearby Carceri hermitage, San Damiano or Santa Maria degli Angeli.

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

58

Day 8 (5) • Departure day

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Umbria & Assisi Trip Information

Accommodation

Trains From Rome Perugia Rome Perugia

B&B

HHH

Friendly, comfortable hotel in quiet medieval quarter

B&B

Palazzo Dragoni

HHHH

Elegant hotel in 15th century palazzo, situated close to the Cathedral PORETA

HB

Borgo della Marmotta Agriturismo An authentic, luxurious farm resort Superior rooms are larger

To

Price ~€9-17 ~€5 ~€9-20 ~€4

Spoleto Spoleto Foligno Foligno

SAN LUCA (8-day)

Villa Zuccari HB

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

Aurora

SPOLETO NIGHT 1

Rome • Perugia From central Rome and Perugia there are regular trains and buses to Spoleto (1.5–2 hrs/1 hr).

5-day route: There are trains to Foligno from Rome (1.5-2.5 hrs) or from Perugia (40 mins), then bus or taxi to Montefalco.

NIGHT 2

Recommended Destination Airports

NIGHT 3

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 1

SPOLETO

Getting There

Finding Your Way

HHHH

Well-appointed hotel in a beautiful setting, with pool

Upgraded rooms for Superior route

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

B&B B&B

Il Chiostro

5

Il Cacciatore

10

15

Day 4 20

Day 5

25

˚F ˚C 104 40

40

45

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

..... 5-day route

Day 6

35

30

Metres 1220 915 610 305 0

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

41

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

D

HHH

Family-run hotel with terrace and views SPELLO

B&B

NIGHT 5

Palazzo Bocci

HHHH

Stylish hotel centrally located in the old town ASSISI

Hotel Giotto and Spa B&B

Montefalco

Day 3

Day 2

Monte Subasio

Residenza d’Epoca Very comfortable hotel in an architecturally unique, medieval building SPELLO

NIGHTS 6 & 7

Poreta

Assisi

Spello

Charming, family-run, centrally located hotel

Orto Degli Angeli

HHHH

Centrally located with views over the valley ASSISI

Nun Assisi B&B

Miles 0

Bevagna

San Luca

HH

BEVAGNA

NIGHTS 6 & 7

Spoleto Feet 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Charming hotel in tranquil setting with spectacular views

Upgraded rooms for Superior route

Fitness: Grade 3 (2 days 3+) See page 10 for information on Grades

Strade bianche (small gravel roads), woodland paths, grassy meadows and forest paths/tracks.

HHHH

BEVAGNA

B&B

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

Villa Pambuffetti

B&B

Spoleto Spoleto Montefalco Montefalco Montefalco

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

Superb wines of Montefalco using the unique Sagrantino grape. Try Sagrantino Passito (possibly Italy’s finest dessert wine).

Terrain

Price ~€200 ~€ 80 ~€220 ~€ 80 ~€ 40

NIGHT 4

Good food everywhere along the route, and several very distinguished restaurants. The cuisine of the area is renowned for its delicate and subtle flavours. Game, mushrooms, asparagus, artichokes, and both black and white truffles.

To

NIGHT 4

Restaurants, Food & Wine

NIGHT 5

Taxis From Rome Perugia Rome Perugia Foligno

NIGHT 3

MONTEFALCO (5-day)

HHHHH

Stunning new hotel in converted monastery in the old town; indoor pool and spa uniquely housed in its Roman foundations

NUMBER OF NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED) 8 DAY • Standard: 2 / Superior: 2 5 DAY • Standard: 0 / Superior: 0

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

5-day itinerary: Montefalco to Assisi Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay

anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

Cycling itinerary also available: See pages 68-69 for details.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

59

AT G F O O T L O O S E

Itinerary

I TA LY : U M B R I A

(Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary)

Unknown Umbria & Spoleto Up to 53.9 miles u 8 or 5 Days u

Grade 3 - 4 u Route open: May-Jun; Aug-Oct* u

Day 1 (1) • Arrive in Norcia Historic walled town, birthplace of St Benedict and renowned for its much cherished gastronomic speciality – the truffle.

Day 2 • Free day around Norcia Travel by road to picturesque Castelluccio (4,000ft) and walk across the Piano Grande, the most inspiring highland plain in Europe, then back down to Norcia (9.7 miles, 5 hrs).

Alternatively explore Norcia, its central piazza with church of St Benedict (480–543 AD) and medieval town walls.

Day 3 (2) • Norcia to Roccaporena Follow farm tracks across low hills to the small town of Cascia and churches with 14th century frescoes. Then follow an ancient pilgrim path along the gorge to Roccaporena, birthplace of St Rita, patron saint of desperate causes (12.9 miles, 6.5 hrs).

PHOTO: AMELIA WHINNEY

Day 4 (3) • Roccaporena to Scheggino Cross hills with oak woods famous for their truffles to Gavelli, with fine frescoes restored by the ATG Trust. Follow an old (dirt) road steeply down to Scheggino. If staying at San Pietro in Valle, the Route Manager can arrange a taxi (10 mins) (12.9 miles, 6.5 hrs).

The Piano Grande – filled with flowers in Spring

Features • Walk from the medieval town of Norcia to the city of Spoleto • Enjoy one of the least visited and most beautiful areas of Europe • Rounded peaks of Monti Sibillini and Piano Grande – filled with flowers in spring • Superb medieval towns, Romanesque monasteries, shrines and frescoed churches • Elegant approach to the medieval city of Spoleto, via its arched 14th century bridge

Day 5 • Valley Walk Optional walk along the Valnerina Valley to the superb monastery of San Pietro in Valle, founded in the 5th century, with frescoes, Roman decorative fragments and sarcophagi of 8th century Lombard dukes (6.1 miles, 2.5 hrs one way). The walk is done in reverse if you are on the superior route.

Day 6 (4) • Scheggino to Spoleto Follow the route of a disused, but once famous railway – a remarkable example of 19th century engineering. Descend through chestnut woods and olive groves to enter Spoleto across the Ponte delle Torri, the most elegant approach on foot to any city in Europe (9.4 or 12.3 miles, 4.5 or 6 hrs).

Day 7 • Free day in Spoleto Explore the medieval city, its 12th century cathedral with frescoes by Fra Filippo Lippi, and important Romanesque churches. The Spoleto festival takes place during the first two weeks of July.

Day 8 (5) • Departure day, or...

Continue with a further 8 days (48.6 miles) of walking from Spoleto to Assisi – see Umbria & Assisi (pages 58-59).

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

60

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

Getting There Recommended Destination Airports

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Fitness: Grade 3 - 4 See page 10 for information on Grades

Woodland, sheep and mule tracks, dirt roads and ways over high open grassland with wide views. In the Monti Sibillini the route includes grassy ridges and well made tracks on most ascents and descents. Some steep, stony paths. Sticks/poles strongly recommended.

Day 2 5

Day 3 10

Scheggino

Roccaporena

15

Day 4 20

25

Day 5 35

30

˚F ˚C 104 40

Day 6

40

45

Metres 1535 1220 915 610 305 0

50

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

41

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

HB HB HB

HH

Beside medieval village and river, with renowned restaurant STANDARD & 5-DAY SUPERIOR

FERENTILLO B&B

NIGHT 3 NIGHTS 4 & 5

Basic rooms in pilgrim hotel

Abbazia di San Pietro in Valle RESIDENZA D’EPOCA

Beautifully restored Romanesque abbey SPOLETO

Aurora

HHH

Friendly, comfortable hotel in quiet medieval quarter

SPOLETO

Palazzo Dragoni

HHHH

RESIDENZA D’EPOCA

Elegant hotel with wonderful views ROME

D’Inghilterra

HHHHH

Central hotel in elegant 17th century palazzo

ROME

Cesari

HHH

Quietly situated near Pantheon in central Rome

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

..... 5-day route

Spoleto

San Pietro in Valle

Roccaporena HH(H)

8-DAY SUPERIOR ONLY

EXTENSION

Miles 0

Norcia

Elegantly restored palazzo in town centre, with *Michelin restaurant

SCHEGGINO

B&B

First hotel First hotel First hotel

HHHH

5 Del Ponte

B&B

Price ~€250 ~€160 ~€ 80

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

Famous wines from nearby Montefalco and Orvieto, and some

Castelluccio Piano Grande

Palazzo Seneca

B&B

To

Characteristic hotel with renowned restaurant

NORCIA

B&B

Taxis From Rome airport Perugia airport Spoleto

NIGHTS 4 & 5

Price ~€9 - €17 ~€5

NIGHTS 6 & 7

To Spoleto Spoleto

NIGHTS 6 & 7

Trains From Rome Perugia

Truffle country! Noted for the superb Tuber Melanosporum of Norcia and Norcineria (the superb hams and salami of Norcia that have given their name to a generative term for cured meats used throughout Italy).

Fresh trout from streams, game, lamb, sheep’s cheese and noted green lentils. Si mangia bene!

HHH

ROCCAPORENA

EXTENSION

From Rome Tiburtina station there are buses to Norcia (3.5 hours, €8.50). From Rome Termini station and from Perugia there are regular trains to Spoleto (1/5–2 hrs from Rome/1 hour from Perugia); and from Spoleto you can either take an onward bus (1 hour, €4.40) or a taxi (~€80) to reach Norcia.

Restaurants, Food & Wine

Feet 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Grotta Azzurra

Rome • Perugia

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

Terrain

NORCIA

B&B

interesting ones from the Adriatic coast.

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHTS 1 & 2

Finding Your Way

Accommodation

NIGHTS 1 & 2

Unknown Umbria & Spoleto Trip Information

D

NUMBER OF NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED) 8 DAY • Standard: 5 / Superior: 1 5 DAY • Standard: 3 / Superior: 2

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

5-day itinerary: One night in each hotel en route Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay

anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

61

AT G F O O T L O O S E

I TA LY : C A M PA N I A

Amalfi Coast u

Up to 35 miles

u

Grade 3

u

8 or 5 Days

u

Route open: Apr-Jun; Sep-Oct*

Itinerary

(Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary)

Day 1 • Arrive in Ravello …with its splendid villas, gardens and art treasures in an incomparable setting.

Day 2 • Ravello – excursion Follow ancient stairways down to the fishing village of Atrani, a maze of whitewashed alleys. Paths then lead through lemon groves to Scala, the oldest ‘little’ city of the coast, then back to Ravello (6.5 miles, 5 hrs).

Day 3 • Ravello to Amalfi (Day 1 – Arrive Amalfi)

A high path leads to the famous nature reserve of Valle delle Ferriere, through meadows, chestnut groves and past waterfalls towards the village of Pogerola, and then down an ancient flight of steps towards the historic ‘city’ of Amalfi (8.5 miles, 6 hrs).

Day 4 (2) • Amalfi to Conca dei Marini Time to visit Amalfi and its cathedral, with bronze door cast in Constantinople, mosaic façade and 13th century cloister. A 1,000-year-old footpath leads through historic villages to Conca dei Marini. Opportunities to visit the Grotta dello Smeraldo (3.6 miles, 3 hrs).

The elegant resort of Positano

Features • Walk from idyllically situated Ravello with its famous gardens, to the elegant resort of Positano • Outstanding coastal scenery, which can only be appreciated on foot • Picturesque towns and colourful fishing villages

Day 6 (4) • Vettica Maggiore - Positano Climb up to the monastery of San Domenico and along the Sentiero degli Dei (Footpath of the Gods), a high open ridge walk with fine views, before descending through olive groves to Positano (5.7 miles, 4.5 hrs).

• Walk through the wild Lattari mountains, vineyards, woods and chestnut groves, high above the sea

Day 7 • Positano – excursion Originally a small fishing village, now an exclusive resort, Positano’s church boasts a lovely majolica dome and Byzantine Madonna. Scenic paths with panoramic views lead from Montepertuso to Santa Maria and back along the fertile Pozzo Valley (5.4 miles, 4 hrs).

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

Day 8 (5) • Departure day

• Ancient paths and steps linking villages, farms, churches, and monasteries

62

Day 5 (3) • Conca - Vettica Maggiore A stepped footpath passes churches with panoramic views, and descends into the spectacular fjord of Furore.

Then the Via dell’ Amore leads into the green Praia Valley, before descending to the quiet village of Vettica Maggiore (5.3 miles, 4 hrs).

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Naples From Naples there are buses to Amalfi (2 hrs, ~€4); or trains to Salerno (40 mins, ~€4–€13), then bus (1 hr, 15 mins) to Amalfi. Or you can take a ferry/hydrofoil (€12–€16) to Amalfi. From Amalfi there are local buses to Ravello (35 mins) or you can take a taxi.

Price

Salerno

~€4 - €13

Feet 2000 1000 0

Miles 0

Scala

Day 2

Day 3 5

10

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays.

Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

Vettica Positano Montepertuso Amalfi Maggiore Conca dei Metres Marini 610 305 0 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 15

20

25

˚F ˚C 104 40

..... 5-day route

35

30

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

Beautifully situated on wooded cliffs overlooking the sea

J

A

S

O

N

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

B&B B&B

HHHH

Comfortable family-run hotel with pool

POSITANO

Savoia

HHH

Family-run hotel with traditional majolica tiled floors POSITANO

Palazzo Murat

HHHH

Boutique hotel in beautiful botanical garden setting

NAPLES

Chiaja Hotel de Charme

HHH

Central location 20m from the Piazza del Plebiscito

NAPLES

San Francesco al Monte

HHHH

Converted monastery with views, gardens and pool

350

86 30

41

HHH

Superior rooms have sea view

B&B

~ €130 ~ €130 ~ € 40

Ancient paths with long flights of steps originally used to link the villages, which climb and descend through lemon groves. Small open footpaths (rocky in places) through the Valle delle Ferriere and on the Sentiero degli Dei, which are not suitable for anyone suffering from vertigo.

Steep ascents/descents; plenty of steps; sticks/poles advisable.

Ravello

Restored convent with chapel and pool

Tramonto d’Oro

B&B

Ravello Amalfi Ravello

Fitness: Grade 3 (MANY STEPS) See page 10 for information on Grades

Ravello

HHHH

Le Terrazze

B&B

Price

NIGHT 5

To

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Terrain

Restored villa in private gardens with pool

Luna Convento

B&B

Few Campania wines have official credentials; however there are some pleasant surprises among the table wines: Ravello’s thriving red, white and rosé Vino Gran Caruso and

HHHH

VETTICA MAGGIORE

Taxis From Naples airport Naples airport Amalfi

NIGHTS 6 & 7

Campania is renowned for its pasta, mozzarella and pizza. Specialities are sea bream and fresh anchovies cooked in lemon and butter, frutti di mare – all types of shellfish, parmigiana di melanzane and delicious pastries and ice creams.

To

NIGHTS 6 & 7

Trains From Naples

Giordano

CONCA DEI MARINI

EXTENSION

Restaurants, Food & Wine

Renovated, family-run hotel in 13th century convent with pool

AMALFI

EXTENSION

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

HHHH

RAVELLO B&B

Recommended Destination Airport

Bonadies

B&B

Getting There

RAVELLO

B&B

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

NIGHTS 1 & 2

Vuilleumier, as well as Furore’s Divina Costiera.

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 3

Finding Your Way

NIGHTS 1 & 2

Accommodation

NIGHT 4

Amalfi Coast Trip Information

D

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

5-day itinerary: Amalfi to Positano Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

63

AT G F O O T L O O S E

Itinerary

I TA LY : P U G L I A

Gargano Peninsula u

Up to 41.2 miles

u

Grade 3

8 Days

u

Route open: Apr-Jun; Aug-Oct*

(54.6 miles with extension)

u

Note: Some of the walking distances are relatively short, allowing time for swimming, etc. There are also opportunities (subject to timetables) for seasonal scenic boat trips around the coast, between Peschici, Vieste and Manfredonia.

Day 1 • Arrive in Manfredonia Time to explore the town with its port, castle, etc.

PHOTO: SARAH WELLBURN

Day 2 • Manfredonia to Monte Sant’Angelo Walk along the coast then across a small plain before walking up an ancient pilgrim route, once used by crusaders, before embarking for the Holy Land.

The route, now a grassy ravine with ruined monasteries on either side, leads to the ancient town of Monte Sant’Angelo (2,755 ft), with its whitewashed houses, steep narrow alleys and stairways, and views across the bay of Manfredonia and coast to the south (9.9 miles, 5 hrs/bus 20 mins!).

Flower-filled meadows descend to a picturesque coast

Features • Picturesque coastal scenery, with rocky headlands, small coves and sand beaches • A wide variety of paths – along the coast and into hills with scented scrub, pine woods, olive groves and sea views • Gargano National Park with its renowned flowers, including unique species of orchids and many birds • Historic pilgrim routes • Monte Sant’Angelo with its famous cave, venerated since 491 AD as the last place St Michael appeared on Earth

* For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

64

Day 3 • M. Sant'Angelo to Mattinata Time to explore the town and visit the famous cave church, venerated as being the last place St Michael appeared on Earth (491 AD), before setting off down a well-made pilgrim path to the small town of Mattinata (650ft) overlooking olive groves and the sea (9.2 miles, 5 hrs).

Day 4 • Mattinata to Baia Fontana delle Rose Follow paths along the coast and into hills overlooking the sea, before descending to the picturesque bay of Fontana delle Rose (7.1 miles, 3.5 hrs).

Day 5 • Baia Fontana to San Salvatore Tracks lead up through limestone hills and aromatic scrub to a viewpoint (1,115ft) before continuing to the isolated Masseria Sgarazza, beautifully situated on a ridge overlooking the Gargano coast (7.7 miles, 4 hrs).

Day 6 • San Salvatore to Vieste Paths lead along a ridge with sea views before descending to a long sandy beach and Vieste (7.7 miles, 4 hrs).

Day 7 • Free day in Vieste Day 8 • Departure day, or...

Optional extension to Peschici (additional cost). Follow paths through ancient olive groves and farmland and then small lanes across a series of coastal headlands to the whitewashed village of Peschici, perched on a buttress of rock (13.4 miles, 7 hours).

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Gargano Peninsula Trip Information

Accommodation

Finding Your Way

Getting There

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays. Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

B&B

NIGHT 2

Palace Hotel San Michele

HHHH

Spectacularly positioned, well-appointed hotel with large pool spa

HB

NIGHT 3

Residence Il Porto

HHHH

In lovely setting, with sweeping sea views

HB

Villa Scapone

HHH

Fabulous cliff-top setting with outside pool, jacuzzi and access to the sea

SAN SALVATORE

Masseria Sgarrazza HB

Puglia is one of Italy’s largest wine producers (growing almost one fifth of the country’s wine), much of which is consumed locally, or goes north to Piemonte to be used in the production

Welcoming, family-run hotel

FONTANA DELLE ROSE NIGHT 4

Excellent local seafood, olive oil, interesting and original pasta dishes; delicious sheep’s cheese and lamb from the high plateau. The area is famous for its breads, biscuits and pastas, which are distributed throughout the country, and more than 50% of Italy’s output of olive oil comes from Puglia and Calabria.

HHH

MATTINATA

NIGHT 5

Bari • Pescara • Naples All airports have good connections to local train stations. There are regular trains to Manfredonia via Foggia, from Bari (2–2.5 hrs) and Pescara (3 hrs). From Bari airport there is also a bus service (1 hr 40, ~€20) to Manfredonia (+10-minute onward taxi journey to hotel). There is an hourly coach from Naples to Foggia (2 hrs) which costs approximately €11. From Foggia there are train (40 mins) and bus (50 mins) connections to Manfredonia.

Trains From To Price Bari Manfredonia ~€17 - €26 Pescara Manfredonia ~€24 - €33 Taxis From To Price Bari airport First hotel ~€150 Pescara airport First hotel ~€250 Foggia First hotel ~€ 40

Restaurants, Food & Wine

Hotel Panorama del Golfo

MONTE SANT’ANGELO

Recommended Destination Airports

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

HB

of Vermouth. More recently the emphasis has been placed on producing wines of greater quality, and the region now has over 20 DOCs. For further information on food & wine see page 9.

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 1

MANFREDONIA

AGRITURISMO

Working farm with panoramic views

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

Terrain

Peschici Vieste San Salvatore Monte Sant’Angelo

Baia Fontana delle Rose Mattinata Manfredonia

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

Hours 400

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

B&B

Palace Hotel Vieste

D

HHHH

15th century building refurbished in Art Nouveau style, with easy access to the beach

PESCHICI

Locanda al Castello

350

86 30

41

VIESTE

B&B

˚F ˚C 104 40

EXTENSION

Limestone hills rising to 2,700 ft with coastal paths, quiet lanes, farm and woodland tracks and pilgrim routes leading up to Monte Sant’Angelo.

Occasionally rough under foot. An abundance of flowers in spring, including some species unique to the area.

NIGHTS 6 & 7

Fitness: Grade 3 See page 10 for information on Grades

HHH

Friendly, family run hotel with wonderful sea views

4 NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED)

Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

65

AT G F O O T L O O S E

Itinerary

I TA LY : S I C I LY

Sicily: From the Centre to the Sea Up to 56.1 miles u 8 Days u

Grade 3 - 4 u Route open: Apr-Jun; Aug-Oct* u

Day 1 • Arrive in Enna Panoramic views, historic fortress and cathedral.

Day 2 • Enna (Villadoro) to Gangi The Route Manager will take you either to the main square in the town of Villadoro (where you can walk uphill on asphalt to the starting point of the route), or directly to the beginning of the route, from where the path leads to the dramatically situated town of Gangi.

Ancient drove roads across gently rolling hills with views to Mt. Etna (9 or 11.7 miles, 5 or 6 hrs).

Day 3 • Gangi to Geraci Siculo Time for relaxing or a visit to Gangi (3.8 miles, 2 hrs), before walking on.

Paths across farmland lead to the route of an ancient road to the hill-top village of Geraci Siculo, with its ruined Saracen castle, Saracen fountain and picturesque alleys (7.2 or 8.3 miles, 4.5 or 5 hrs).

PHOTO: BOB LENDE PHOTO: KATE WHINNEY

Day 4 • Geraci Siculo to Pomieri Paths through open mountain meadows with extensive views lead into the wildness of the Madonie Mountains – a National Park (8.9 miles, 5 hrs).

Splendid mountain scenery

Features • Walk from the centre of the island to the coast • Ancient routes (now tracks) across high rolling pastures with sheep bells, larks, eagles and extensive views • Discover Old Sicily: unspoilt villages, timeless hospitality and authentic Sicilian cooking!

• Frequent reminders of Sicily’s succession of glittering civilisations • Last day descent through vineyards, olive and citrus groves to Cefalù, with its picturesque streets and harbour, and superb Romanesque cathedral * For exact route dates and for trip prices, see insert.

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Day 5 • Pomieri to Isnello A choice of routes leads to a pass, which then descends through inspiring scenery, past a Nature Reserve with fallow deer and wild boar, through meadows and woods to the hill village of Isnello (11.5 miles, 7 hrs – mostly downhill).

Day 6 • Isnello to Cefalù After a short descent and streamcrossing, farm tracks lead up to a ridge and pilgrim church with panoramic views – the sea! An ancient pilgrim path then leads down through woods and meadows, olive groves and vineyards; and through scrub to lemon groves, Cefalù and the sea (11 miles, 6.5 hrs).

Day 7 • Free day in Cefalù Explore the picturesque ancient streets and fishing port of Cefalù, its magnificent Romanesque cathedral, and the massive buttress of rock above the town, with paths to prehistoric, Phoenician, Greek, Roman and medieval sites and fortifications, and spectacular views (2 miles). Good beaches for swimming.

Day 8 • Departure day

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Sicily: From the Centre to the Sea Trip Information

˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Isnello Madonie Mountains

Geraci Siculo Pomieri Gangi

Villadoro

0

5

10 miles

Calascibetta Enna

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

41

5

32

0

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

N

D

HB

NIGHT 2

HB

NIGHT 3 EXTENSION

EXTENSION

Drove roads, dirt roads, mule, mountain and rough animal paths across rolling hills and low mountains. Sticks/poles advisable.

Casa Maggio Family-run, refurbished village house

HB

HH

Chalet-style hotel with mountain views

HB

B&B Madonie Family-run, centrally located guesthouse

CEFALÙ

Cefalù Sea Palace B&B

Fitness: Grade 3 - 4 See page 10 for information on Grades

Converted baronial house in countryside

ISNELLO

HHHH

Seafront hotel with pool and private beach

PALERMO B&B

On booking you will be sent further trip information: details of how to get to/from the route, what to bring and other practicalities.

AGRITURISMO

Pomieri

Grand Hotel et des Palmes

HHHH

Monumental building, dated 1856, in the historic centre PALERMO

Villa Igiea B&B

Prices may be significantly higher on Sundays and public holidays. Taxis can be booked via the ATG office.

Villa Rainò

MADONIE MOUNTAINS NIGHT 4

To Price First hotel ~€ 90 First hotel ~€220 First hotel ~€ 15 First hotel ~€ 10

Simple, friendly, family-run hotel

GERACI SICULO

NIGHT 5

Taxis From Catania airport Palermo airport Enna Bassa Enna Alta

Cuisine relies on what can be easily grown or gathered. Species of Arabia lend sophistication.

Mountain areas produce lamb and cheese; the plains, coast and volcanic soils of Mount Etna produce superb vegetables and sub-tropical fruits. Great variety of fish from the Mediterranean.

H

GANGI

NIGHTS 6 & 7

From Catania airport there are bus connections to Enna (1.5 hours, €8–€14), from where the first hotel is a brief taxi ride. NOTE: Palermo airport is not currently recommended as 2015 landslides have meant disruption to infrastructure.

Restaurants, Food & Wine

Cefalù

B&B

Recommended Destination Airport

Catania

Characteristic hotel in piazza

Miramonti

Getting There

Your Route Manager, who lives locally, is there to ensure your trip runs smoothly. They will brief you before you set out, move your luggage along the route, offer advice and answer your questions, and they’re contactable by phone to help out in case of emergencies.

HHH

GANGI HB

For further information on food & wine see page 9.

Grand Albergo Sicilia

Superior rooms are larger

NIGHT 2

Sicily (with Puglia) is the largest producer of wines in Italy, which are improving: excellent Rosso del Conte red and Nozze d’Oro white.

The ATG Route Booklet includes detailed directions and maps, as well as up-to-date information on towns visited, places of interest, local history, restaurants, cafés and shops en route.

NIGHT 1

ENNA

Finding Your Way

Terrain

Accommodation

HHHHH

World-class, seaside hotel

NUMBER OF NIGHTS HB (DINNER INCLUDED) Standard: 4 / Superior: 4

STANDARD OPTION SUPERIOR OPTION STANDARD & SUPERIOR OPTIONS

Extend Your Stay: To extend your stay anywhere on the route, please contact the ATG office.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

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Freewheeling Do people enjoy ATG cycling as much as ATG walking trips?

Ironically, for an organisation that made its reputation with walking trips, Freewheeling cycling trips are enjoyed at least as much as walking ones. All those who took Freewheeling trips this year rated their overall enjoyment ‘100% good/excellent’.

ATG approaches the quality of cycling itineraries with the same meticulous research and attention to every detail, as for its walking itineraries, ensuring they comprise the best that every area has to offer.

The choice of easy and more challenging routes ensures that it really is a holiday. Choice of accommodation ensures that personal budgets are met. Choice of bikes – whether Road bikes, Hybrid or Mountain bikes – allows every sort of cyclist to enjoy the experience in their own way.

Bikes – all bikes...even high-quality, newly serviced bikes – may on occasions develop (usually minor) mechanical problems. The Route Manager is always on call ready to resolve these.

On various independent routes there is a separate cycling itinerary and bike hire available: • Tuscany & Siena • Siena to Florence • Southern Tuscany • Unknown Tuscany & Orvieto • Roman Roads to Orvieto • Umbria & Assisi

ALL PHOTOS: MYA PADGET

• Classic Alsace • Classic Dordogne • Lot & Dordogne • Provence: Vaucluse & the Lubéron • Montefeltro & Urbino

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How will you find your way?

The ATG Route Booklet is the key to the success of the trip. With it you will have an excellent holiday. Without it you will be – literally – lost!

You won’t get lost, but if you do...simply phone the Route Manager.

CONTENTS

u

Your route Notes on cycling in Italy Your Route Manager Introduction to Tuscany & Siena San Gimignano San Gimignano - Circular routes San Gimignano to Colle Val D’Elsa Colle Val d’Elsa Colle Val d’Elsa to Monteriggioni Monteriggioni Monteriggioni to Siena Siena Siena city walk Hotel addresses and directions Sustainable Shopping

HOW TO USE THIS BOOKLET 1 2 4 5 13 20 22 24 29 31 34 36 43 48 49

This booklet is divided into sections: The first part of this book gives an introduction to the area, its history, landscape, food etc.

Next, the route you are cycling is described in detail. The route notes are interspersed with descriptions of the towns you are visiting, and information on what to see, where to eat and shop.

For the larger towns there are also town plans (plans for the smaller towns and villages are unnecessary).

We would ask you to remember that the route described, and the information contained within the booklet, are the result of original research, and as such are BY LAW copyright material, and cannot be lent, hired or sold – whether for profit or not.

YOUR ROUTE Every stage offers a choice of routes: San Gimignano – Circular routes Route 2A: Route 2B: San Gimignano to Colle Val d’Elsa Route 3A: Route 3B: Colle Val d’Elsa to Monteriggioni Route 4A: Route 4B: Monteriggioni to Siena Route 5A: Route 5B:

ATG Oxford

9.8 km/6 miles 16.5 km/10 miles 41.8 km/26 miles 13.7 km/8.5 miles 21.5 km/13.3 miles 41.5 km/25.8 miles 34.9 km/21.7 miles 17.7 km/10.9 miles

1

p

q San Gimignano

PLACES OF INTEREST

Height: 1061ft/324m. Population: 7,062.

Palazzo del Popolo This fine building in the Piazza del Duomo houses the following:

An Etruscan settlement, its present name is that of the Modenese bishop Geminianus whose aid was happily invoked when Attila’s Huns threatened attack in AD 450. This remarkable medieval town (not strictly a city any longer as there is no bishop) grew up as an agricultural centre on the old Via Francigena, trading especially in wool and spices. Pilgrims too used this route, particularly when the coast road was dangerous, which explains the large number of well-endowed religious houses and hospices to cater for them. The city was an independent commune from the early 1100s until 1353, when it came under the control of Florence, and has essentially remained in a medieval time warp since then.

The 14C Manhattan only has 14 of the original 72 towers left – looking, as DH Lawrence said, ‘like an angry porcupine’. They were built primarily as fortresses and places of refuge for the adherents of the main two warring families, the Guelph Ardinghelli and the Ghibelline Salvucci. Wooden walkways connected adjoining towers so friends could visit each other.

Other Italian cities had similar towers in this period, but local communes insisted that they were lowered.

SAN GIMIGNANO MAP

Museo Civico: Open 09.30–19.00 every day May to Oct, otherwise closed Monday.

We suggest you buy a combined ticket here – several varieties are available, including one for €7,50 (or €5,50 if over 65 years old) including the Museo Civico, the Torre Grossa, the Museo Archeologico, the Spezieria di Santa Fina, the Galleria di Arte Moderna, Collezione Ornitologica, or a ticket for €5,50 which includes the Collegiata and chapel of Santa Fina, and the Museo d’Arte Sacra.

Entrance is through the arch up the stairs from a courtyard containing a fresco by Sodoma and coats of arms of Florentine Governors. The first floor contains the Sala di Dante, which is exactly as it was when the great poet, as an ambassador of Florence, spoke to the citizens in 1299 to urge them to join the Guelph Florence. Other treats include works of the finest quality by Gozzoli, a pair of Gondos by Filippo Lippi, Pinturicchio, Taddeo di Bartolo and a Maesta of Lippo Memmi.

Above this is the great tower with stunning views. Beware of the bell chiming at noon!

ATG Oxford

13

ATG Oxford

19

p

q San Gimignano to Colle Val d’Elsa ROUTE 3A The long route is an exhilarating high-level anti-clockwise loop, with beautiful views over rolling fields and wooded hills. You pass through three provinces en route.

Distance: 41.8 km/26 miles Leave Piazza Cisterna along Via San Matteo.

Go through Porta San Matteo and turn R. Follow main 0.4 road.

2.0 Turn L (GAMBASSI). Uphill starts.

3.4 Ignore R turn to PANCOLE – this is where route 1A joins this route.

Gradient eases.

6.4 L at T-junction (VOLTERRA 15).

9.1 12.1 Wind uphill through woods, as you leave Firenze province and enter Pisa province.

14.34 This is the highest point of the whole Certaldo-Siena route at 607m – good views, as you would expect.

19.8 L at T-junction (COLLE VAL D’ELSA).

21.1 Turn R (PONSANO 5.5/CASOLE D’ELSA).

23.7 Keep L (R = PONSANO).

28.8 L at triple fork (COLLE) and enter Cavallano.

ATG Oxford

If you turn R and climb for a short distance through Il Murlo, you enter Casole d’Elsa, from where you can follow the main road N to Colle Val d’Elsa, rejoining the suggested route at the T-junction marked ‘31.9’.

29.5 Keep L at fork (R leads to village centre).

31.9 Turn L at roundabout onto largely flat main road. L again at second roundabout.

38.7 Pass COLLE VAL D’ELSA sign; keep straight.

38.9 Keep R at junction (CENTRO STORICO).

40.1 Follow main road to L. 40.3 Turn R by car park onto Via della Porta Vecchia.

40.7 Fork L for Hotel Arnolfo and Centro Storico.

ROUTE 3B A shorter but equally beautiful route, offering fine views back to San Gimignano, and the option of three off-road sections following wide footpaths and unused SB, if you so desire. Either way be prepared for a steep descent followed by a steep climb in the middle of the route.

Distance: 13.7 km/8.5 miles Leave Piazza Cisterna along Via San Matteo.

Go through Porta San Matteo and turn R. Follow main 0.4 road.

0.9 Turn sharp R (ULIGNANO) – this retraces Route 1B. Furthest R at triple fork onto SB (PIETRAFITTA; chapel 1.8 on RHS). You have now left Route 1B. Enjoy the views back to the towers of San Gimignano.

t

22

The booklet anticipates your needs…

The ATG Route Booklet for your chosen area has easy-to-follow instructions, maps, plans and other information that will guide you to discover the best that the area has to offer.

n • Cycling route with measurements n • Town plans marked with cycling route and location of hotels n • Historical notes and notes on geology, flora and fauna, regional cuisine, etc. n • Places of interest (monuments and sights) with notes and opening/closing times n • Restaurants, etc., with notes and price guides n • Shops to buy picnic lunches, etc. – includes a substantial shopping guide n • Other information – locations and opening times for banks, post offices, pharmacies, etc. n • Your Route Manager will supply you with an area map at the briefing

Our Freewheeling routes use the same accommodation and have the same dedicated Route Managers as Footloose. For trip details please see the website.

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

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Walking the Talk Reputation

The ATG (Ad Terrae Gloriam) Trust is a registered charity no. 1082542.

wide. Accreditation for both standards is subject to regular external audits. ATG’s various environmental projects world-wide are run through the ATG Trust – a registered charity, with independent Trustees.

ATG has a reputation for being ‘amongst the world’s best travel companies.’ How can this be substantiated?

‘Never compromising on quality to sell on price’ enables ATG to offer outstanding itineraries. The Company's 'best that each area visited has to offer' policy; and the elite-trained Tour Consultants who manage the holidays, all ensure consistency of highest quality travel experiences. Quality creates Value.

95% of all those who travel with ATG have come through referrals from those who have taken trips.

But what about the environment? ‘We take care of the environment – ‘goes on behind the scenes’ – but in case you would like to know, this is how it works…

Today, 'Green credentials’ are synonymous with ‘marketing advantage’ and, ostensibly, almost everybody’s doing it. This has led to wide-spread scepticism about 'environmental PR' and a proliferation of 'awards' judged on written applications. Predictably, the band wagon is looking over-loaded.

The fact is simply that people expect high-Quality products to incorporate environmental best practice, and Quality organisations to have an accredited EMS. We ‘walk the talk.’

Edward Bernard (Chairman), Hilary Daniels, Dr Fiona Davidson and Catherine MacRae Trustee & Administrator: Jessica Jenkins The Trustees are responsible for allocating Trust funds and determining the feasibility and validity of projects.

Projects The Trust supports projects that aim to: • Protect the integrity of the environment and the beauty of its landscapes.

• Preserve the habitats of rare and interesting flora and fauna.

• Conserve works of art and architecture.

Walking the Talk From 1979, for many years, ATG was almost alone in running an organisation on principles of environmental best practice. Five years ago, ATG became the first organisation to win both tourism’s premier environmental awards – ‘Tourism for Tomorrow’ and the ‘World Legacy Award’ (still the only two to have location inspections to verify winners' performance).

ATG was also the first, and is possibly still the only, travel company to have an accredited Environmental Management System (EMS). This EMS, ISO 14001, is used by the Company in conjunction with the ‘Investors in People’ Management Standard to ensure environmental best practice throughout the organisation world70

The idea behind Sustainable Tourism Development is, of course, that tourism should ‘sustain’ its own resource. This might be conservation of water, or the natural unspoilt beauty of the country, beaches of clean white sand, or the profusion and variety of flowers, plants, birds and animals (biodiversity), traditional ways of life, and cultural heritage.

Conserve these – the reasons for people to visit an area – and tourism can ‘sustain’ the local community for centuries. Degrade or destroy, and the resource will be lost for ever, and often with it the economic viability of the community.

Who pays?

Will your trip cost more? NO! ‘Giving Something back’ means your trip will cost LESS. The vast amounts of good will and close, long-standing friendships created within local communities mean that ATG and its clients are warmly welcomed and almost invariably receive the best possible value and service.

‘Giving Something Back’ – everyone wins!

PHOTO: KATE WHINNEY

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER WHINNEY

The Big Idea

14th century fresco restored by the Trust

All projects must be: • Co-funded by local organisations and implemented by the beneficiaries, thereby forging the commitment that helps ensure the maintenance of the project over time.

• Part of an integrated plan to bring sustainable tourism development and selected for their long-term benefit to a local community.

• Accessible to ATG’s clients and the local people.

For a full list of projects past and present please visit our website: www.atg-oxford.com Project ideas We are always looking for worthwhile projects to invest in.

Please let us know if you are inspired by something that could be a potential conservation and/or sustainable development project, in an area we visit and which might benefit from the Trust’s support.

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

What else does ATG offer?

Though holidays based at Pieve a Castello are part of our all-inclusive, Escorted programme, the 'As You Like It' weeks, as the name suggests, offer a range of options:

• Independent walking some of the 200 miles in the route book • Guided walks and excursions • Independent excursions to Florence and Siena (transport provided)

A unique opportunity to stay at Pieve a Castello, the best preserved building from the early 8th Century on the early medieval main Road to Rome.

ATG’s Award-winning restoration of this, architecturally unique historic monument, once a main overnight stopping place on the Via Francigena, has enabled travellers to follow in the footsteps of millions of travellers before them – staying in stylish 4* comfort.

Ancient walking routes fan out from Pieve a Castello in all directions. It is situated mid-way between San

Gimignano, the ‘medieval Manhattan’ with its famous towers; and Siena – the best-preserved great medieval city in Europe. Paths of the early Via Francigena lead to both … whilst other ancient paths through vineyards, pastures and forest connect this 8th century canonry to surrounding medieval villages, including iconic, hilltop Monteriggioni with its high walls and 14 watchtowers.

PHOTO: VAN DAGLAN

As You Like It …

• Enjoying the facilities of Pieve a Castello – its travertine-lined saltfiltered pool, library, music including use of a concert grand piano in an acoustically perfect environment with recording facilities; terraces, garden etc…and high quality cuisine and wines (all meals included).

The Footloose-style route book contains a total of over 200 miles of day walks. u

Escorted Trips

PHOTO: FRANCIS ORAVETZ

Note re hotels:

ATG offers a range of all-inclusive, Escorted trips worldwide. Many of these provide access to areas less conducive to independent travel on foot, due the remoteness of the areas.

•

Details of all our Escorted trips, including those based at Pieve a Castello, can be found in our Escorted brochure and on our website.

Many travel organisations today, fearful that their chosen hotels will be ‘checked-out’ on interactive media sites, do not disclose hotel names in itineraries.

Some even go to the other extreme of advertising that they only use hotels rated ‘No.1’ on these sites. But as anyone who knows an area well will tell you, these ratings, whether good or bad, No.1 or No.26, are often utterly ludicrous, for a range of reasons.

ATG, by contrast, tells you the name of each hotel at which you will be staying – ‘the best that every area has to offer’.

Why? Because ATG has checked every hotel in the area, chosen the best and best situated, visits many of the hotels daily, and has positive feedback from hundreds, often thousands, of happy ATG clients.

San Pietro in Vallee, Unknown Umbria

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

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Destination Airports Following ATG’s policy of ‘transparent’ pricing, and providing the best value for money, we do not include air travel as part of the holiday.

You can often buy air tickets cheaper than we can!

However, we are of course delighted to book flights on your behalf on scheduled airlines (e.g., British Airways, Alitalia). If you plan to book your own flights, we strongly advise you to wait until we have confirmed all elements of your ATG holiday before doing so.

Ancona Montefeltro & Urbino

36

Avignon Provence: Vaucluse & the Lubéron

22

Florence Ancient Volcanic Landscapes Siena to Florence Southern Tuscany Tuscan Hills Tuscany & Siena

42 48 50 40 46

Perugia Umbria & Assisi Unknown Umbria & Spoleto

58 60

Pescara Gargano Peninsula

64

Pisa Ancient Volcanic Landscapes Cinque Terre Riviera & Portofino Siena to Florence Southern Tuscany Tuscan Hills Tuscany & Siena

42 34 32 48 50 40 46

Rodez Lot & Dordogne Valley Lozère & the Tarn Gorge

18 20

Rome (Fiumicino & Ciampino) Ancient Volcanic Landscapes Approach to Rome Unknown Tuscany & Orvieto Roman Roads to Orvieto Siena to Florence Southern Lakes Southern Tuscany Umbria & Assisi Unknown Umbria & Spoleto

42 44 52 54 48 56 50 58 60

26 28

Genoa Cinque Terre Riviera & Portofino

34 32

Bari Gargano Peninsula

64

Girona Hills of Girona

28

Basel-Mulhouse Classic Alsace

14

Limoges Lot & Dordogne Valley

18

Bergerac Classic Dordogne

16

Lisbon Sintra & the Portuguese Coast

30

Bologna Montefeltro & Urbino

36

Marseille Provence: Vaucluse & the Lubéron

22

Bordeaux Classic Dordogne

16

Milan Riviera & Portofino

32

Brive-Vallée de la Dordogne Classic Dordogne Lot & Dordogne Valley

16 18

Montpellier Lozère & the Tarn Gorge

20

Budapest Hungary: the Danube Bend

24

Naples Amalfi Coast Gargano Peninsula

62 64

Strasbourg Classic Alsace

14

Castellon de la Plana Alto Teruel

26

Nimes Lozère & the Tarn Gorge

20

Toulouse Lot & Dordogne Valley

18

Catania Sicily: From the Centre to the Sea

66

Paris CDG Classic Alsace

14

Valencia Alto Teruel

26

Edinburgh The Scottish Borders

12

We make the appropriate CARBON-OFFSET contribution for all flights booked through ATG

PHOTO: MYA PADGET

Barcelona Alto Teruel Hills of Girona

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Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Extension Hotels

Italy Rome | D’Inghilterra HHHHH Elegant hotel in the historic centre.

Extend your holiday...for more time to explore!

Below are the most popular hotels used by ATG clients – selected for their location, character and service.

In addition to these hotels we will be pleased to book you additional nights, before or after your ATG trip, at any of the other hotels that we use.

Italy Naples | Chiaja Hotel de Charme HHH Delightful hotel located at the heart of the Neapolitan city centre.

Siena | Santa Caterina HHH 18th century villa, close to medieval gates of historic centre.

Bologna | Dei Commercianti HHHH Restored medieval building, retaining many features.

Naples | San Francesco al Monte HHHH Converted monastery with panoramic views, gardens and pool.

Siena | Athena HHHH Large, modern hotel within the walls of the medieval city.

Florence | Hotel Cellai HHHH Boutique hotel in the heart of the historic centre.

Orvieto | Corso HHH Historic building in centre of old city.

Siena | Grand Hotel Continental HHHHH Restored 17th century palazzo, with frescoes in medieval city.

Superior and Deluxe rooms also available

Florence | Degli Orafi HHHH Breathtakingly central location!

Orvieto | Palazzo Piccolomini HHHH 16th century hotel overlooking the medieval Piazza Ranieri.

Aix-en-Provence | Hotel des Augustins HHH Charming, centrally located hotel.

Florence | River HHHH 19th century palazzina in quiet Santa Croce area, next to River Arno.

Palermo | Grand Hotel et des Palmes HHHH Monumental building, dated 1856, in the historic centre.

Colmar | Hostellerie Le Marechal HHHH 16th century hotel in idyllic setting.

Genoa | Hotel Bristol Palace HHHH Elegant, centrally located hotel.

Palermo | Villa Igiea HHHHH Stunning, world-class, sea-side hotel.

Montignac | La Roseraie HHH Traditional, historic hotel with lovely gardens.

Montepulciano | Albergo Duomo HHH Friendly hotel in excellent, central location.

Peschici | Locanda al Castello HHH Friendly, family run hotel with wonderful sea views.

Montepulciano | Il Marzocco HHH Family-run, 16th century hotel, with panoramic views.

Pisa | Relais dell’Orologio HHHHH Award winning hotel with 14th century tower.

Montefollonico | La Chiusa HHH Converted mill and restaurant.

Rome | Cesari HHH Quietly situated near Pantheon in central Rome.

Italy

France

Spain Barcelona | Mesón Castilla HH Traditional hotel in a quiet street. Excellent value.

Portugal Lisbon | Regency Chiado HHHH Innovative, modern hotel in the heart of Lisbon.

Famous for its majestic tradition.

Hungary Budapest | Kempinski Hotel Corvinus HHHHH Located in the heart of Budapest, with wonderful views.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

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Making a Booking Book online

Further Information

11th Trip Policy

www.atg-oxford.com

Payment Prices are shown in UK£ and US$. We accept payment in either currency, however you may not switch between currencies for deposit and final payment. Your booking will be secured on payment of a deposit of 10% of the trip price. The final balance is due 60 days prior to departure. When a booking is made within 60 days of departure, a reservation is secured upon receipt of the total holiday cost.

In recognition of client loyalty, we are delighted to offer the opportunity to take your 11th trip free. ATG’s contribution to your 11th trip is determined by calculating the current monetary land cost value of each of the 10 trips taken using the Retail Price Index, adding the totals together, and dividing by 10 to find the average. This amount (average expenditure on 10 trips at current monetary value) can be put towards any trip.

Depending on which trip you choose, this may give you a free trip. If you choose a less expensive trip, the balance will be carried forward to your 12th trip. If you choose a more expensive one, you will be charged the difference in price.

• •n Book your trip online •n Find out more.... n Check availability

Call From UK: 01865 315678 From overseas: +44 1865 315678

•n Talk to someone who knows the trip •n Find out about availability •n Make a booking •n Request a copy of this brochure for

friends. Copies will be despatched within 24 hours, and usually take 3 days to arrive within the UK and 10–14 days worldwide.

•n Our brochure request line is:

From UK: 01865 315606 From overseas: +44 1865 315606

Protection Please note that ATG ‘buys forward’ its anticipated foreign currency requirements a year or more in advance, so that the price of your trip is guaranteed against normal currency fluctuations. If, subsequently, the rates improve we don’t benefit, but if the rates fall the price of your holiday is protected.

E-mail trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

•n For all enquiries and information or to request a booking form.

•

n We will reply within 24 hours

Fax From UK: 01865 315697 From overseas: +44 1865 315697

Insurance Please note that insurance is a condition of booking. We strongly recommend that you take out insurance independently as soon as your booking is confirmed. ATG does not provide insurance cover.

Write to us

Privacy Policy ATG regards its client data as confidential and as such does not disclose information about its clients to third parties except to those directly connected with ATG’s business.

274 Banbury Road Oxford OX2 7DY, England

The Perfect Gift?

We will reply within 24 hours.

Your letter will be answered promptly.

Come and see us in Oxford We will be delighted to welcome you, and answer any questions that you may have.

Please note that the 11th trip policy refers to published itineraries only – any extras, such as flights, extension hotels or Double For Single occupancy are not included.

Every year we are very pleased to welcome many people on their 11th trip – several clients have taken their 33rd trip!

Customer Service If you have any concerns relating to the processing of your booking, please call or email Liz Scrivener, Quality Manager. She will welcome your call in confidence.

Phone: +44 (0)1865 315615 Email: lizs@atg-oxford.com

ATG Gift Vouchers are available now, and make the perfect gift for your friends or family, to put towards an ATG holiday of their choice. Please contact our Reservations Team for more information.

Financial Security ATG Oxford is a fully bonded tour operator, with two licences and two bonds.

5181

The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 for Alternative Travel Group Ltd. (ABTOT number 5181), and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for the following: 1. non-flight packages commencing in and returning to the UK; 2. non-flight packages commencing and returning to a country other than the UK; and 3. flight inclusive packages that commence outside of the UK, which are sold to customers outside of the UK.

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1, 2 and 3 provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled. 1 and 3 provides for repatriation. Please note that bookings made outside the UK are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with Alternative Travel Group Ltd. We also hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 2618). All the flights and flights-inclusive holidays booked through ATG Oxford are financially protected by the ATOL scheme.

When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL certificate confirming your arrangements and your protection under ATOL. Please check it to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it.

In the unlikely event of our insolvency the CAA will ensure that you are not left stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. The airinclusive holidays and flights we arrange are ATOL protected providing either the person who pays for the booking is present in the UK when the booking is made; or if the first leg of any flight or flights we arrange for you commences in the UK. Please see our booking conditions for further information, or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL certificate, go to www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate.

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Booking Form

Alternative Travel Group T/A ATG Oxford 274 Banbury Road, Oxford OX2 7DY, England Reg. in England No 1449375 Office use

This booking form is subject to ATG Oxford’s Booking Conditions. Please write clearly and tick appropriate boxes. Please complete sections in the cream tint boxes if applicable.

PLEASE NOTE: Adequate insurance cover is a condition of booking.

Name of Trip

Start Date

No. of people

Accommodation* c

Standard

c

No. of days*

Superior

c

5–6

c

7–8

c

15

c

22

* Footloose / Freewheeling only

NAMES OF ALL TRAVELLERS Should each person travelling want a separate invoice and pre-trip information, separate booking forms are required.

Title

First Name

Surname

Date of Birth

Room Type

1 2 3

Please indicate: (D) Double (T) Twin (DFS) Double for single occupancy

4

For additional passengers please attach a separate sheet

PASSENGER INFORMATION If we already have your current passport details on file, please leave blank Passport No.

Place of Issue

Date of Issue

Date of Expiry

Nationality

Date of Birth

Place of Birth

Occupation

1 2 3 4

For additional passengers please attach a separate sheet

FLIGHTS (FROM UK ONLY)

EXTENSION ACCOMMODATION Arrival Date

Departure Date

Hotel Name

ATG to book the following flights Business class Date From (airport)

Economy class To (airport)

Outward Return

INSURANCE Please tick to confirm you have adequate travel insurance:

For those on escorted trips making independent travel arrangements: I will meet the group at: the destination airport the first hotel Please provide details of your flight Date

DOCUMENTS TO BE SENT TO

From (airport)

Flight No.

To (airport)

Outward

Name:

Return

Address:

BICYCLE HIRE (FREEWHEELING ONLY) Tel:

Details of person travelling

Fax:

Email:

Height

Information & Correspondence Please send confirmation of this booking, correspondence and pre-trip information:

Inside leg length Preferred frame type (m/f)

c

Electronically (email + attachments)

c

By post

1

2

3

4

ROAD • MOUNTAIN • HYBRID

The correct bicycle size cannot be guaranteed without your measurements

PAYMENT (Note: 2% surcharge for Visa/Mastercard credit card; 3% surcharge for Amex) c US$ I would like to pay in*: c UK£

TAXIS Please book a taxi transfer for

persons for:

Outward flight (above) Flights independently booked

Deposit c I enclose a cheque (UK £ only) for the deposit of 10% per person, payable to

ATG Oxford or

Return taxi can be booked by Route Manager whilst on your trip

Airport

c Please debit my credit/debit card for the deposit

Flight No.

Flight arrival time

Outward

Balance (payable 60 days before departure) c I will send the balance when due, either by bank transfer or cheque

(UK£ cheques only). c Please debit my credit/debit card for the balance when due**.

** Please note – balance will be taken automatically from card on due date.

Visa/Mastercard/Amex (Amex – Sterling only)/Delta/Maestro Card No.

Valid from or issue No.

Name on card:

4-digit code (Amex) 3-digit code (others)

DIET AND HEALTH Diet & Health Please indicate any dietary restrictions or relevant medical conditions (see Booking Conditions)

Card expiry date:

Date:

Signature

EMERGENCY CONTACT * You may not switch between currencies for deposit and final payment

11th Trip If you are claiming your 11th trip, please provide a list of prior trips with dates taken.

Emergency contact whilst travelling with ATG Name:

Tel:

Relationship:

Tel: + (44) 01865 315 678 • Fax: +(44) 01865 315 697 • Email: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com 75

Booking Conditions Booking Conditions Unless otherwise stated In these booking conditions, “you” and “your” means all persons named on your booking (including anyone who is added or substituted at a later date) or any of them as the context requires. “We”, “us” and “our” means ATG Oxford.

Making your booking Please telephone or e-mail us or check our website to confirm availability on your chosen trip. To secure a reservation a deposit of 10% of the published trip price is required for each person travelling. A binding contract between us comes into existence on receipt of the deposit.

Where a deposit is received by credit or debit card, the final balance, when due, will be charged to this card unless you otherwise notify us. The balance is due 60 days before departure. When a booking is made within 60 days before departure, the total holiday cost must be paid at the time of booking. If we do not receive all payments due in full and on time, we are entitled to assume that you wish to cancel your booking. In this case, we will be entitled to keep all deposits paid or payments due at that date.

Please check our confirmation invoice as soon as you receive it. Contact us immediately if any information which appears on the invoice or any other document is incorrect or incomplete as it may not be possible to make changes later.

We regret we cannot accept any liability if we are not notified of any inaccuracies (for which we are responsible) in any document within ten days of our sending it out (five days for tickets). We will do our best to rectify any mistake notified to us outside these time limits but you must meet any costs involved in doing so.

If you alter your booking If you wish to make any alteration to your booking after it has been confirmed by us, we will do our best to accommodate your request, which must be specified in writing. An amendment fee of £30/$60 per alteration per person will be made to cover the necessary administration costs incurred.

All changes are subject to availability, and if we are able to make the change, you will be liable to pay any costs which result, for example any amendment or cancellation charges imposed by any relevant supplier. Some suppliers, for example, may treat a change of name as a cancellation and subsequent rebooking. Airlines usually do so after tickets have been issued. For any change of trip or trip date less than 61 days prior to departure, cancellation charges will apply (see If you cancel your booking).

We should emphasise that we cannot accept liability for any loss, damage or additional expense incurred by you as a result of choosing to make any change.

If you transfer your booking to another person If you are unavoidably prevented from travelling, you may transfer your place on the booking to another person, provided that this is done 28 days or more before departure.

If we have to make a significant change or cancel, we will tell you as soon as reasonably possible. If there is time to do so before departure, we will offer you the choice of the following options:(a) Accepting the changed arrangements or (b) Purchasing an alternative holiday from us, of a similar standard to that originally booked if available. We will endeavour to offer you an alternative of equivalent or higher standard for which you will not be asked to pay any more than the price of the original holiday. If this holiday is in fact of a lower price than the original one, we will refund the price difference. If you do not wish to accept the holiday we specifically offer you, you may choose any of our other then available holidays. You must pay the applicable price of any such holiday. This will mean your paying more if it is more expensive or receiving a refund if it is lower priced or (c) Cancelling or accepting the cancellation in which case you will receive a full and quick refund of all monies you have paid to us (other than any previously incurred amendment or travel charges).

If we have to make a significant change or cancel after departure we will, where appropriate, pay you reasonable compensation depending on the nature and extent of the significant change and the circumstances, subject to the following exceptions. Compensation will not be payable and no liability beyond offering the above mentioned choices can be accepted where we are forced to make a change or cancel as a result of unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which we could not have avoided even with all due care. No compensation will be payable and the above options will not be available if we cancel your booking as a result of your failure to comply with any requirement of these booking conditions entitling us to cancel (such as paying on time).

When you have been advised of an alteration prior to departure, and elect to continue with the trip, this will be deemed to be acceptance of the change(s) and, apart from any compensation offered prior to departure, no further compensation will be paid.

ATG reserves the right to change any aspect of any itinerary prior to or after departure in the interests of clients’ safety, wellbeing, comfort or the successful operation of the trip in altered circumstances, or in the light of UK Foreign Office or/and US State Department advice. Payment of compensation, if appropriate, will be limited to any overall cost saving to ATG Oxford, generated by necessary changes made in the interests of clients.

The person to whom the trip place is transferred must meet any conditions which apply to it. The right to transfer is subject to payment of an administration fee of £30/$60 per person, together with all additional charges of whatever sort imposed by suppliers providing the component parts of the trip. Any overdue balance payment must also be received.

For flight inclusive bookings, you must pay the charges levied by the airline concerned. As most airlines do not permit name changes after tickets have been issued for any reason, these charges are likely to be the full cost of the flight at the then applicable price as the airline will treat the original booking as cancelled and levy 100% cancellation charges.

Very rarely, we may be forced by force majeure (see below) to change or terminate your holiday immediately prior to, or during, your holiday/scheduled time away. This is extremely unlikely but if this situation does occur, we regret we will be unable to make any refunds (unless we obtain any refunds from our suppliers), pay you any compensation or meet any costs or expenses you incur as a result.

If you cancel your booking Cancellation of booking will become effective upon receipt of written notification from you, and the following cancellation charges will be due: Up to 61 days before departure: deposit only.

Cancellation 60-43 days before departure: 30% of the invoice total.

Cancellation 42-29 days before departure: 45% of the invoice total.

Cancellation 28-15 days before departure: 60% of the invoice total.

Cancellation 14-8 days before departure: 80% of the invoice total.

Cancellation 7 days or less before, or after departure: 100% of invoice total.

Guaranteed Departures The departure of Escorted trips with six or more participants is guaranteed, unless cancelled because of force majeure (see below). The maximum number of participants on a trip is 16, and the average number of people on an ATG Escorted trip is 12, but on occasion numbers will be lower. Bookings are made, transferred and occasionally cancelled by clients up to the day of a trip’s departure. If, at any time after 30 days before the trip's departure, group numbers fall to less than six, we will make every effort to contact you and offer you the options of either: transferring to another departure, and receiving a refund for non-refundable flights and/or ATG extension hotel reservations directly related to the trip; or cancelling your booking and receiving a full refund of all monies paid to ATG related to the trip.

The above cancellation charges apply to the land cost only.

If air tickets have been issued, you will have to pay the full cost of those flights in addition. Any previously incurred amendment charges are non refundable. If the reason for the cancellation of your holiday falls within the terms of your insurance policy, then any such charges (less any applicable excess) may be refunded to you by your insurance company.

Force Majeure Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions, we regret we cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our obligations under our contract with you is prevented or affected by force majeure or you otherwise suffer any damage, loss or expense of any nature as a result of force majeure. In these booking conditions, force majeure means any event which we or the supplier of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include, whether actual or threatened, war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, epidemics / pandemics, adverse weather conditions, fire, UK Foreign Office / US State Department advice against travel and all similar events outside our control / the control of the supplier concerned.

If you cancel your booking no refund will be issued in the event of the cancelled places subsequently being filled.

Cancelled bookings do not count towards the ‘11th Trip Free’.

If we alter or cancel your booking We start planning the holidays we offer long in advance.

Occasionally, we have to update information in our brochures and other publications both before and after bookings have been confirmed. Whilst we always endeavour to avoid changes and cancellations, we must reserve the right to do so.

If we have to alter your trip before departure, any alteration will either be significant or minor. Where an alteration is minor, we will, if practicable, advise you before departure, but we are not obliged to do so, pay you compensation or allow you to cancel or transfer to another holiday without paying our normal charges. A minor alteration is any alteration apart from a significant alteration. A significant change is a change made before departure which, taking account of the information you give us at the time of

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booking and which we can reasonably be expected to know as a tour operator, we can reasonably expect to have a major effect on your holiday. Significant changes are likely to include the following changes when made before departure: a rescheduling of more than 15% of a published itinerary, a change of accommodation to that of a lower official classification or standard for the whole or a major part of the time you are away, a change of accommodation area for the whole or a major part of the time you are away, a change of outward departure time of your arrangements of 12 or more hours or a change of UK departure point to one which is more inconvenient for you.

Accommodation The cost of each trip is based upon accommodation in twinbedded or double rooms. No supplement will, however, be charged for those booking a single room, which clients should generally expect to be smaller and not located in the best part of the hotel. Double rooms for single occupancy, booked on payment of a nominal fee, may sometimes be smaller than double rooms normally allocated to two people.

All room types are subject to availability. The nature of accommodation on each trip is described in individual itineraries. Reservations are accepted on the understanding that, whilst each hotel is usually one of the most characteristic

All bookings are made and accepted in accordance with the terms set out in these conditions. ATG Oxford is a trading name for Alternative Travel Group Ltd.

and comfortable available, you are fully aware that limitations imposed by some itineraries make it inevitable that the character, and sometimes the standard, of accommodation may vary from place to place, and in some areas, hotels may be of a generally lower standard in relation to their ‘star ratings’.

Suppliers’ Conditions Suppliers such as accommodation and transport providers have their own booking conditions or conditions of carriage and you will be bound by these so far as the relevant supplier is concerned. Some of these conditions may limit or exclude liability on the part of the relevant supplier sometimes in accordance with international convention. Where relevant, copies of such conditions may be available for inspection at the offices of the relevant supplier.

Flights If purchasing flights independently we cannot make any refund in the event of the cancellation of a trip, or pay compensation for any additional costs involved as a result of changes in published flight times or routes. For those who have requested reservations with ATG inclusive of return scheduled flights from the UK, in the event of airlines changing or withdrawing their schedules or services, we will make every effort to arrange suitable alternative flights as close as possible to those advertised. All flights we arrange are subject to the airline’s conditions of carriage which limit and exclude the airline’s liabilities in accordance with international convention / EU regulation.

In accordance with EU Directive (EC) No 2111/2005 Article 9, we are required to bring to your attention the existence of a “list” which contains details of air carriers who are subject to an operating ban within the EU. The list is available for inspection at http://ec.europa.eu/transport/air-ban/list_en.htm.

In accordance with EU Regulations we are required to advise you of the actual carrier(s) (or, if the actual carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s)) that will operate your flight(s) at the time of booking.

Where we are only able to inform you of the likely carrier(s) at the time of booking, we shall inform you of the identity of the actual carrier(s) as soon as we become aware of this. Any change to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has been confirmed will be notified to you as soon as possible. If the carrier with whom you have a confirmed reservation becomes subject to an operating ban as above as a result of which we/ the carrier are unable to offer you a suitable alternative “If we alter or cancel your booking” above will apply.

We are not always in a position at the time of booking to confirm the flight timings which will be used in connection with your flight. The flight timings shown in our pre-trip information are for guidance only and are subject to alteration and confirmation. Flight timings are outside our control. They are set by airlines and are subject to various factors including air traffic control restrictions, weather conditions, potential technical problems and the ability of passengers to check in on time.

Specific instructions relating to departure and travel arrangements will be sent with your air or other travel tickets approximately 2 weeks before departure. You must accordingly check your tickets very carefully immediately on receipt to ensure you have the correct flight times. It is possible that flight times may be changed even after tickets have been despatched - we will contact you as soon as possible if this occurs.

Any change in the identity of the carrier, flight timings, and/or aircraft type (if advised) will not entitle you to cancel or change to other arrangements without paying our normal charges except where specified in these conditions.

Price of the trip Whilst the information in this brochure is correct to the best of our knowledge at time of going to print, we reserve the right to change and correct errors in any of the prices, services or other particulars contained in this brochure at any time before we enter into a contract with you. If there is any change or error of which we are then aware, we will notify you before we enter into a contract with you.

Once the price of your chosen holiday has been confirmed at the time of booking, we will only increase or decrease it in the following circumstances. A surcharge or refund (as applicable) will be payable, subject to the conditions set out in this clause, in the event of any change in our transportation costs or in dues, taxes or fees payable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports or airports or in the exchange rates which have been used to calculate the cost of your holiday.

Even in the above cases, only if the amount of any increase in our costs exceeds 2% of the total cost of your holiday (excluding any amendment charges) will we levy a surcharge.

If any surcharge is greater than 10% of the cost of your holiday (excluding any amendment charges), you will be entitled to cancel your booking and receive a full refund of all monies you have paid to us (except for any amendment charges) or alternatively purchase another holiday from us as referred to in “If we alter or cancel your booking”. Where applicable, you have 14 days from the issue date printed on the surcharge invoice to tell us if you want to cancel or purchase another holiday. If you do not tell us that you wish to choose either of these options within this period of time, we are entitled to assume that you will pay the surcharge.

Any surcharge must be paid with the balance of the cost of the holiday or within 14 days of the issue date printed on the surcharge invoice, whichever is the later.

We promise not to levy a surcharge within 30 days of departure. No refund will be payable during this period either.

Holiday costs are based on the rates at which ATG Oxford has bought forward currency to stabilise the cost of trips in the event of fluctuations in exchange rates.

Details are available in conjunction with current published prices.

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Health and Fitness Bookings are accepted on the understanding that all persons travelling are normally in good health and physically equal to the minimum demands of the chosen trip. If this is in doubt the Booking Form must be accompanied by a doctor's certificate stating that it is entirely safe for you to go on the particular holiday you have chosen. ATG reserves the right to decline to accept any persons not equal to the minimum demands of a trip where their continued participation adversely affects the enjoyment of other clients on the holiday. In such a situation we will have no further responsibility toward you including any return travel arrangements. No refunds will be made and we will not pay any expenses or costs incurred as a result of the termination.

Special requests and medical conditions / disabilities If you have any special request, you must advise us at the time of booking. Although we will endeavour to pass any reasonable requests on to the relevant supplier, we regret we cannot guarantee any request will be met. Failure to meet any special request will not be a breach of contract on our part. Confirmation that a special request has been noted or passed on to the supplier or the inclusion of the special request on your confirmation invoice or any other documentation is not confirmation that the request will be met. Unless and until specifically confirmed, all special requests are subject to availability. For your own protection, you should obtain confirmation in writing that a special request will be complied with (where it is possible to give this) where it is important to you.

We regret we cannot accept any conditional bookings, i.e. any booking which is specified to be conditional on the fulfilment of a particular request. All such bookings will be treated as “standard” bookings subject to the above provisions on special requests.

If you have any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or have any special requirements as a result of any medical condition or disability (including any which affect the booking process), please tell us before you confirm your booking so that we can assist you in considering the suitability of the arrangements and/or making the booking. In any event, you must give us full details in writing at the time of booking and whenever any change in the condition or disability occurs.

You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed.

Behaviour and damage When you book with us, you accept responsibility for any damage or loss caused by you or any member of your party.

Full payment for any such damage or loss (reasonably estimated if not precisely known) must be made direct to the accommodation owner or manager or other supplier or to us as soon as possible. If the actual cost of the loss or damage exceeds the amount paid where estimated, you must pay the difference once known. If the actual cost is less than the amount paid, the difference will be refunded. You will also be responsible for meeting any claims subsequently made against us and all costs incurred by us (including our own and the other party’s full legal costs) as a result of your actions. You should ensure you have appropriate travel insurance to protect you if this situation arises.

We expect all clients to have consideration for other people.

If in our reasonable opinion or in the reasonable opinion of any other person in authority, you behave in such a way as to cause or be likely to cause danger, upset or distress to any third party or damage to property, we are entitled, without prior notice, to terminate your holiday. In this situation, you will be required to leave the accommodation or other service. We will have no further responsibility toward you including any return travel arrangements. No refunds will be made and we will not pay any expenses or costs incurred as a result of the termination.

Insurance, Passport, Visa and Health Requirements Please note that adequate travel insurance for all persons travelling (including medical, personal accident and repatriation in the event of illness, baggage, money and liability cover as well as loss of monies paid in the event of cancellation) is a condition of booking. Please read your policy details carefully and take them with you on holiday. It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance cover you purchase is suitable and adequate for your particular needs.

You are responsible for arranging, and being in possession of, a valid, acceptable passport and any visas and vaccination certificates required for the duration of your holiday.

Information regarding passport and visa requirements is sent with our Confirmation of your booking. You are advised, however, that whilst the information is provided in good faith, requirements may change and it is your responsibility to check, in good time before departure, the up to date position with regard to passport and visa requirements with the embassy or consulate of the country(ies) to or through which you are intending to travel.

There are no compulsory health formalities for the countries we visit. It is your responsibility to ensure you are aware of all recommended vaccinations and health precautions in good time before departure. Information on health is contained in the Department of Health leaflet T7.1 (Health Advice for Travellers) available from the Department of Health via its website www.dh.gov.uk and from most Post Offices. For holidays in the EU / EEA, EU citizens should obtain an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) prior to departure from the Department of Health (see leaflet T7.1 and the website www.dh.gov.uk). Health requirements and recommendations may change and you must check the up to date position in good time before departure.

It is the responsibility of the person who makes the booking to ensure that all persons travelling are in possession of all necessary travel documents before departure. All costs incurred in obtaining such documentation must be paid by you. We regret we cannot accept any liability if you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure on your part to carry all required documentation. If failure to have any necessary travel or other documents results in fines, surcharges or other financial penalty being imposed on us, you will be responsible for reimbursing us accordingly.

Liability (1) We promise to make sure that the specified holiday arrangements we have agreed to make, perform or provide as applicable as part of our contract with you are made, performed or provided with reasonable skill and care. This means that, subject to these booking conditions, we will accept responsibility if, for example, you suffer death or personal injury or your contracted holiday arrangements are not provided as promised or prove deficient as a result of the failure of ourselves, our employees, agents or suppliers to use reasonable skill and care in making, performing or providing, as applicable, your contracted holiday arrangements. Please note, it is your responsibility to show that reasonable skill and care have not been used if you wish to make a claim against us. In addition, we will only be responsible for what our employees, agents and suppliers do or do not do if they were at the time acting within the course of their employment (for employees) or carrying out work we had asked them to do (for agents and suppliers).

(2) We will not be responsible for any injury, illness, death, loss (for example loss of enjoyment), damage, expense, cost or other sum or claim of any description whatsoever which results from any of the following: – – the act(s) and/or omission(s) of the person(s) affected or any member(s) of their party or – the act(s) and/or omission(s) of a third party not connected with the provision of your holiday and which were unforeseeable or unavoidable or – force majeure as defined above (3) Please note, we cannot accept responsibility for any services which do not form part of our contract. This includes, for example, any additional services or facilities which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities are not advertised by us and we have not agreed to arrange them as part of our contract In addition, regardless of any wording used by us on our website, in any advertising material or elsewhere, we only promise to use reasonable skill and care as set out above and we do not have any greater or different liability to you.

(4) The promises we make to you about the services we have agreed to provide or arrange as part of our contract - and the laws and regulations of the country in which your claim or complaint occurred - will be used as the basis for deciding whether the services in question had been properly provided. If the particular services which gave rise to the claim or complaint complied with local laws and regulations applicable to those services at the time, the services will be treated as having been properly provided. This will be the case even if the services did not comply with the laws and regulations of the UK which would have applied had those services been provided in the UK. The exception to this is where the claim or complaint concerns the absence of a safety feature which might lead a reasonable holiday-maker to refuse to take the holiday in question.

(5) Where we are found liable for loss of and/or damage to any luggage or personal possessions (including money), the maximum amount we will have to pay you is £500 per person affected unless a lower limitation applies to your claim under this paragraph (5) or paragraph (6) below. You must ensure you have appropriate travel insurance to protect your personal belongings.

For all other claims which do not involve death or personal injury, if we are found liable to you on any basis the maximum amount we will have to pay you is twice the price (excluding insurance premiums and amendment charges) paid by or on behalf of the person(s) affected in total unless a lower limitation applies to your claim under paragraph (6) below.

This maximum amount will only be payable where you have not received any benefit from your holiday.

(6) Where any claim or part of a claim (including those involving death or personal injury) concerns or is based on any travel arrangements (including the process of getting on and/or off the transport concerned) provided by any air, sea, rail or road carrier or any stay in a hotel, the maximum amount of compensation we will have to pay you will be limited. The most we will have to pay you for that claim or that part of a claim if we are found liable to you on any basis is the most the carrier or hotelier concerned would have to pay under the international convention or regulation which applies to the travel arrangements or hotel stay in question (for example, the Warsaw Convention as amended or unamended and the Montreal Convention for international travel by air and/or for airlines with an operating licence granted by an EU country, the EC Regulation on Air Carrier Liability No 889/2002 for national and international travel by air, the Athens Convention for international travel by sea and COTIF, the Convention on International Travel by Rail).

Please note: where a carrier or hotelier would not be obliged to make any payment to you under the applicable international convention or regulation in respect of a claim or part of a claim, we similarly are not obliged to make a payment to you for that claim or part of the claim. When making any payment, we are entitled to deduct any money which you have received or are entitled to receive from the carrier or hotelier for the complaint or claim in question.

Copies of the applicable international conventions and regulations are available from us on request.

(7) Please note, we cannot accept any liability for any damage, loss, expense or other sum(s) of any description (1) which on the basis of the information given to us by you concerning your booking prior to our accepting it, we could not have foreseen you would suffer or incur if we breached our contract with you or (2) which did not result from any breach of contract or other fault by ourselves or our employees or, where we are responsible for them, our suppliers. Additionally we cannot accept liability for any business losses.

Delay We regret we are not in a position to offer you any assistance in the event of delay at your outward or homeward point of departure. Any airline concerned may however provide refreshments etc. We cannot accept liability for any delay which is due to force majeure (which includes the behaviour of any passenger(s) on the flight who, for example, fails to check in or board on time). In addition, we will not be liable for any delay unless it has a significant effect on your holiday arrangements.

Complaints and Arbitration Any complaint should be communicated to our representative as soon as it arises. Any verbal complaint should be put in writing as soon as possible if not resolved straight away. If you are not satisfied with the response of our representative or our representative cannot be contacted for any reason, please contact us in the UK during your holiday.

If the issue is not resolved, then the complaint should be made in writing to ATG Oxford in the UK within 28 days of the end of your trip. Failure to notify our representative or us direct at the time so as to provide us with an opportunity to rectify the cause of the complaint may result in your loss of any legal rights in respect of the particular matter. Should the complaint still not be resolved, the AITO independent dispute service (for which application must be made within six months of the date of your return from holiday) will be available to EC residents. We both agree that English law (and no other) will apply to our contract and to any dispute, claim or other matter of any description which arises between us (except as set out below). We both also agree that any dispute, claim or other matter of any description (and whether or not involving any personal injury) which arises between us which is not referred to the AITO dispute service must be dealt with by the Courts of England and Wales only.

Financial security ATG Oxford is a fully bonded tour operator, with two licences and two bonds.

The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 for Alternative Travel Group Ltd. (ABTOT number 5181), and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for the following: 1. non-flight packages commencing in and returning to the UK; 2. non-flight packages commencing and returning to a country other than the UK; and 3. flight inclusive packages that commence outside of the UK, which are sold to customers outside of the UK. 1, 2 and 3 provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled. 1 and 3 provides for repatriation. Please note that bookings made outside the UK are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with Alternative Travel Group Ltd. We also hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 2618). All the flights and flights-inclusive holidays booked through ATG Oxford are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL certificate confirming your arrangements and your protection under ATOL. Please check it to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. In the unlikely event of our insolvency the CAA will ensure that you are not left stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. The air-inclusive holidays and flights we arrange are ATOL protected providing either the person who pays for the booking is present in the UK when the booking is made; or if the first leg of any flight or flights we arrange for you commences in the UK. Please see our booking conditions for further information, or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL certificate, go to www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate.

Foreign Office Advice The Foreign and Commonwealth Office publishes regularly updated travel information on its website www.fco.gov.uk which you are recommended to consult before booking and in good time before departure.

Safety standards Please note, it is the requirements and standards of the country in which any services which make up your holiday are provided which apply to those services and not those of the UK. As a general rule, these requirements and standards will not be the same as the UK and may sometimes be lower.

Brochure / website / advertising material accuracy The information contained in our brochure, on our website and in our other advertising material is believed correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of printing or publication. However, errors may occasionally occur and information may subsequently change. You must therefore ensure you check all details of your chosen holiday (including the price) with us or your travel agent at the time of booking.

Activities and general area information We may provide you with information (before departure and/or when you are on holiday) about activities which are available in the area you are visiting. We have no involvement in any such activities which are neither run, supervised nor controlled in any way by us. They are provided by local operators or other third parties who are entirely independent of us. They do not form any part of your contract with us even where we suggest particular operators/other third parties and/or assist you in booking such activities or excursions in any way. We cannot accept any liability on any basis in relation to such activities. We cannot guarantee accuracy at all times of information given in relation to such activities or about the area you are visiting generally or that any particular activity which does not form part of our contract will take place as these services are not under our control.

All bookings are made and accepted in accordance with the terms set out in these conditions and on the understanding that clients have read information relevant to the trip made available to them by ATG Oxford. ATG Oxford is a trading name for Alternative Travel Group Ltd. By asking us to confirm your booking, we are entitled to assume that you have had the opportunity to read and have read these booking conditions and agree to them.

These booking conditions only apply to the holiday arrangements which we agree to make, provide or perform (as applicable) as part of our contract with you. All references in these booking conditions to “holiday”, “booking”, “contract”, “tour” or “arrangements” mean such holiday arrangements unless otherwise stated.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

ATG OXFORD Have you seen our other brochures?

ATG Es corTEd Escorted, all-inclusive trips in Europe and Worldwide The best that each area visited has to offer

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P I EV E A c A s TEL Lo Escorted, all-inclusive trips based at ATG’s retreat located in idyllic Tuscan countryside between siena and Florence

• ATG oxford supports the Ad Terrae Gloriam (ATG) Trust: ‘conserving the world for future generations’

Certificate Number 5739 ISO 14001: 2004

5181

Alternative Travel Group Ltd., T/A ATG Oxford, 274 Banbury Road, Oxford, OX2 7DY, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1865 315678 • Fax: +44 (0)1865 315697 • Email: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com • Web: www.atg-oxford.com REGISTERED IN ENGLAND NUMBER 1449375 • VAT NUMBER 348 2372 47