Ryder-Walker Alpine Adventures 2024 Catalog

RYDER-WALKER

T H E G LO B A L T R E K K I N G S P E C I A LI S T S

ALPINE ADVENTURES

2024

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS

40 YEARS OF OUTDOOR

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ADVENTURE

CONTENTS 4 6 8 10 11 12 14 15 16 17 18 19 18 19

Meet Our Team and Guides Changing Landscape of Ryder-Walker’s Trekking Legacy 40th Jubliäum Engadine Trek General Information Frequently Asked Questions Self-Guided 5-Day Mini-Treks Choosing the Right Trip for You Guide to Selecting Your Next Adventure Inspired Cuisine First-Class Accommodations Taking a Closer Look at Huts Five Reasons Why You Should Book a Guided Trek Self-Guided Travel Guided Travel & Private-Guided Travel

GUIDED: EASY TO MODERATE HIKING 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 44

Highlights of Switzerland: Engadine, Lago Maggiore, Zermatt England: The Cotswolds Wales: Countryside, Castles and Coastline NEW Cornwall England: Cornish Coastal Path Heart of Austria Scotland: Highlands and Islands NEW Engadine Trek Sicily: The Aeolian Islands New Mexico: Land of Enchantment, Santa Fe to Taos Montenegro & Croatia: Highlights of the Adriatic Coast Sedona, Arizona Trek Highlights of Italy: Courmayeur, Cogne, and Champoluc

GUIDED: MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

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Northern Greece: Aegean Sea and Epirus Mountains Italian Dolomites Trek High Peaks of Bavaria and Tyrol Rocky Mountain High Life: Aspen to Telluride Peru: The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu French Alps: Chamonix Mont Blanc to Val d’Isère Italian Lakes District: Como, Varenna, Menaggio & Bellagio* Argentine Patagonia: The Lakes District Portugal: The Southwestern Scenic Coastal Trek Via Ladinia: Heart of the Italian Dolomites Dolomiti di Brenta Haute Pyrénées Mountain Trek: From France to Spain Morocco: Atlas Mountains Trek Tour du Mont Blanc Corsica: French Isle Adventure Trek NEW Engadine Summit Series Hiker’s Haute Route Slovenia: Julian Alps Summit Series

GUIDED: CHALLENGING HIKING

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India: Markha Valley Trek Bhutan: Thimphu, Lingzhi, Laya Trek Matterhorn Trek Iceland: The Remote Westfjords Eiger Trail Norway: The Islands of Lofoten Nepal: The Forbidden Kingdom of Mustang

Named Best Outfitter on Earth two years in a row by National Geographic.

TRAVEL OPTIONS

96 Tried-and-True: Favorite Self-Guided Treks 99 Self-Guided 5-Day Mini-Treks and Easygoing Treks Schedules 100-101 Guide and Self-Guided Schedules 102-103 Choosing the Best Hiking Shoe Guide and Packing List COVER PHOTO: PANTHERMEDIASELLER©-DEPOSITPHOTOCLUB.COM CONTENTS PHOTO: JANOKA82©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM, RYDERWALKER©, MIROSLAV_1 ©-ISTOCK.COM, RYDER-WALKER©

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MEET OUR TEAM PETER WALKER – Founder: Peter founded RW in 1984 after guiding hiking trips in the Alps for seven years.

He is an AMGA Legacy Guide, a PSIA Certified Level 3 alpine, telemark and snowboard instructor and, most importantly, the man that keeps everything moving forward at RW.

EILEEN BURNS – VP Marketing & Operations: In 2024, Eileen celebrates a decade with Ryder-Walker and 25 years in Telluride. Her journey in Marketing began as co-founder and VP of CEM, producers of the Chicago Marathon. With a lifetime devoted to sports and adventure travel, she enjoys blending creative thinking with marketing expertise and operational efficiency. Her dog Delilah (15 yrs) is always at her side.

BRITTNEY CLARKE – Managing Director: Brittney has always loved exploring new places, having adventures outside, and making connections with new people, which is why she feels so lucky to have joined the RyderWalker family in June of 2016. When not at the office, Brittney can be found out hiking, playing volleyball, skiing, at a live music event, or just relaxing at home.

OLIVIA PEDERSEN – Director of Operations: Olivia’s dynamic career began as a graphic designer in the Outdoor and Athletic industry. She then founded How Collaborative, a creative firm catering to direct-toconsumer client companies and later founded Sustaio, her climate tech startup, and was Chief Everything Officer. Additionally, she has guided for national travel, whitewater rafting, and hiking volcanoes in Nicaragua.

BRANFORD WALKER – Customer Service Specialist/ Writer/Guide: Since the age of three, Branford has either participated in the development of or been on almost every guided trip Ryder-Walker has to offer. He has worked as a guide and writer for the last seven years and in customer service for the past several years. He currently lives in New York.

SUZANNE FRIEDMAN – Operations Specialist: Suzanne loves to travel, experience different cultures, and see the gorgeous natural wonders that this planet has to offer. Her experience working for a safari and Kilimanjaro tour operator prepared her for the Ryder-Walker team.

When Suzanne is not working, she can be found hiking with her dog Fritzel, kayaking, playing ice hockey, and performing her original music at local open mic nights.

KAREN JAMES – Production Specialist/Writer: Karen’s idea of a perfect vacation is an all-day hike somewhere spectacular followed by a hot shower, locally authentic meal, and a cozy night’s sleep – all while someone else deals with her luggage! So she’s beyond thrilled to be helping others do the same with Ryder Walker. In her down time she can be found skiing or hiking with her family on the trails around Telluride.

JULIET WHITFIELD – Operations Specialist: Juliet lived in Telluride for 25 years then Durango, CO for 8, and has been full-time RVing since 2015, exploring the US. She travels with her two pups, Mick Wagger and Romeo. Being in nature is her #1 priority each day; she loves to hike, bike, and explore new places with Mick and Romeo. Not all who wander are lost!

TERESE BRODERICK – Customer Service Specialist: Born and raised in Telluride, Colorado, Terese’s love of the outdoors was innate. At 15 years old she spent a year abroad in Austria and gained a love for the German language and homemade strudel. Terese is currently based in Breckenridge, where she enjoys yoga, going for backcountry ski laps with her partner and baby boy, as well as the occasional happy hour.

MELANIE EGGERS – Customer Service Specialist: Guided by a former career in resort property marketing, Melanie freelances for various businesses including Ryder-Walker Alpine Adventures. She co-founded an heirloom orchard restoration project on the Western Slope of Colorado called the Apple Core Project.

Currently, she manages this project and works for RyderWalker part-time.

ALLEY RUBADEAU – Digital Marketing: Alley’s love for the mountains began when she traveled the world skiing. She took her passion for the outdoors and founded Chair 9, which helps brands to make a digital impact. When not nose-deep in marketing analytics, she can be found running and biking around Telluride and Boulder.

HEIDI LAUTERBACH – Digital Marketing: Heidi Lauterbach founded Mountain Air Media in 2014 and has been immersed in the complex world of marketing ever since. Her love for adventuring in the mountains aligns perfectly with helping outdoor brands dominate their marketing initiatives. Her mantra? Work hard, play hard.

KRISTAL FRANKLIN – Graphic Artist: Kristal was born in Telluride and has lived in multiple areas throughout Colorado for most of her life. She began designing for Ryder-Walker in 2014. In her free time, she and her husband Jon love to travel, play golf, go camping and hiking and spend time with their two pups, Sophie and Ruby.

MELANIE KRANZ – Finance: Melanie has been working for Ryder Walker since 2016. When she is not “running the books” she can be found running the trails, her household of three teenagers, three cats, two dogs and a mouse. Melanie alongside her husband Sam and family reside in Bluff, Utah.

COMMEMORATING 40 YEARS OF EXCEPTIONAL GLOBAL HIKING ADVENTURES. OUR LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE SETS US APART FROM THE REST. AWARD WINNING Travel + Leisure named us a “Stand Out Specialist” for hiking. National Geographic named us one of the “Top Ten Best Outfitters on the Planet.”

Telluride Magazine named us “Telluride’s Ultimate Adventure Company,” and we’ve received numerous mentions in the New York Times, USA Today, the Washington Post and Outside Magazine, just to name a few.

TREKKING SPECIALISTS Since 1984, Ryder-Walker Alpine Adventures has crafted personalized hiking treks through stunning landscapes. Whether private, small group, or selfguided tours, we bring your dream adventure to life.

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METICULOUS DETAIL We take care of everything, from lodging to luggage transfers to providing the perfect hikes. You simply walk with a daypack and leave your cares behind.

FIRST CLASS ACCOMMODATIONS We choose inns that capture the character of a village, from charming chalets to historic grand hotels. Whether it’s luxurious accommodations or secluded mountain huts, we have a personal connection with every property.

INSPIRED CUISINE Cuisine is key at our accommodations, offering the finest in regional and gourmet dishes with creative menus, local wines, and beverages served up by acclaimed chefs including Gault Millau and Michelin.

MEET OUR GUIDES STAFFAN BJÖRKLUND: Staffan has a passion for adventure racing and skiing. He is a certified ISIA ski instructor and a pro athlete. On the side he runs two businesses, but most of all he is a father to two sons.

On and off the trail, Staffan is witty, full of energy, and will crush anyone in a timed mile.

LYN GRUSS: Hailing from the Bay Area and being an ex-collegiate soccer player, Lyn has always been an athlete. She is a 25+ year Telluride area local and is well acquainted with hitting the high mountain trails. Over the years she has been a partner in many Gruss family exploits with her husband Dave, also a RW guide.

CONAN BLISS: Growing up in Colorado, Conan spent his free time in the mountains. Thus began his passion for the high country. This love affair with the alpine world has carried him to South America, Alaska, the Alps, and the highest Himalayan summits. Whether trail or tundra, raclette or fondue, he seeks to make every moment of the journey exciting, precious, and memorable!

FISCHER HAZEN: Born and raised in the Telluride region, Fischer grew up exploring the mountains of SW Colorado. After obtaining a geology degree, and a degree in Spanish Language and Literature from Colorado College, Fischer has been guiding mountains all over the world for the past five years, including Denali, South America, Africa and China.

MADDIE CROWELL: Maddie was born and raised in Telluride, CO. Growing up with the San Juans in her backyard, she has always had a work hard, play hard mentality. In the winters Maddie guides locally as a cat-skiing guide for the Cimarron Mountain Club and in the backcountry for Mountain Trip. Whether it’s finding the best local snack shop or sharing a mountain picnic, Maddie is excited to adventure with you!

JULIE HODSON: Julie, a Telluride Colorado resident with over 20 years of guiding experience, grew up in Wisconsin enjoying family ski trips and outdoor adventures. She’s has spent significant time in the Alaska mountains, and has guided Denali. She volunteers with San Miguel Search and Rescue as a certified EMT. Her passions include global travel, dogs, and connecting with people.

DEANNA CYRAN: Deanna grew up in the Appalachia mountains of Pennsylvania. She relocated to Telluride Colorado for bigger mountains and more sunshine. An adventurer by day, and a certified sommelier by night, she enjoys skiing, meandering through the forest, and climbing peaks. No matter where she is, Deanna aims to provide people with worldly experiences through food and wine, friendly locals and above all, nature.

GESINE KÖSTER: Gesine was born and raised in Heidelberg, Germany. After finishing medical school there, she spent a year and a half exploring the wild regions of Latin America. Hiking in the mountains became her favorite pastime. Only working part time as a medical specialist now, she spends the rest of her time abroad, trekking mountain trails or wandering coastal paths.

KEN FUHRER: Ken has been leading hiking trips in Europe since 1996. He is certified in Wilderness First Responder and is a fully certified ski and snowboard instructor. He teaches skiing and guides trips in the backcountry at Telluride ski resort and in his free time climbs big alpine peaks and skis down them with wienerschnitzel in his back pocket. He has an uncanny ability to meet local people wherever he travels.

ACE KVALE: As one of the world’s top adventure photographers, Ace has traveled to more than 60 countries. He has participated in 26 expeditions to Asia and the Himalaya. Ace is a longtime friend of the RW family and also the head guide on our trips to Markha Valley, Nepal, and Bhutan.

ELSA GIUMELLI: Elsa was born in a small Italian village at the foot of the Central Alps. She has hiked and climbed in the Central Alps, Dolomites, France and South America. In 2017, Elsa became a certified hiking guide of Collegio Guide Alpine della Lombardia converting her passion to a career. Elsa looks forward to helping you discover the beauty and magic of the Alps!

ERIK LARSEN: A native of the Pacific Northwest, Erik shared both parents’ passions of gardening, hiking, and skiing. These days, summers are spent on the trails and in the garden, while winters he is a safety manager and avalanche dog handler on the Telluride Ski Patrol. His excitement for the mountains keeps him busy year-round by guiding clients locally and internationally, whether that be on skis or on foot.

WILLI GLANZNIG: This Powder 8 ski champion hails from a small country hamlet in Austria. Guided by his love for the outdoors, Willi traveled the world, hiking, skiing, and climbing before landing at RW. He brings an infectious passion and humor to the team. Willi has also just acquired Ryder-Walker subsidiary Telluride Mountain Guides.

NIKOLA MARKOVIČ: Nikola is a well-rounded and well-versed guide with more than ten years of experience in adventure sports. Growing up in unsettling times in the Balkans, he enjoyed mountaineering and taking part in expeditions to trail mark the vast and less known range of the Southern, Dinaric Alps. He speaks impeccable English and German and is the father of two adorable children.

BARBARA (BABSI) GLANZNIG: Babsi’s love for the outdoors began in her homeland of Austria. When she is not traveling to teach or practice Ashtanga Yoga, she loves exploring the wilderness of south-western Colorado together with her husband and precious dog JoJo. In 2021, she started Glânz Ghee in Telluride.

DAVE NESIS: Dave lives in the small historic mining town of Rico, just south of Telluride, where he enjoys the mountain trails straight from his front door. You will find him trail running, climbing, and skiing 5-days a week. Dave also leads groups of high school students internationally throughout Central and South America, and is a mountain guide on Denali in Alaska.

DAVE GRUSS: Whether on Denali, Aconcagua, in the American West or the heart of Europe, Dave (aka “the nicest guy on earth”) makes guiding his lifetime career.

When not leading hiking treks for RW, he is busy with Global Gravel Adventures, his international gravel bike touring company. A jack of all trades, Dave is equally comfortable on a lofty summit, in the saddle, or standing thigh deep in water luring cutthroat.

ROGAN O’HERLIHY: Rogan hails from the quaint countryside of the Cotswolds, England. His childhood amongst its oak trees and quiet villages provided him with a love for England and its outdoors. Now a seasoned pro, Rogan is looking forward to sharing this love for his homeland with guests who join us on the new Cornwall, England: Cornish Coastal Path, Cotswolds and Rob Roy Way tours.

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THE CHANGING LANDSCAPE OF RYDER-WALKER’S 40-YEAR TREKKING LEGACY

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“I’ve been on 13 Ryder-Walker hikes over the last 17 years. The experiences I’ve had and the friends I’ve made are an important part of my life. If you like to hike in beautiful places, you’ll like what they do.”

– JEFF G. “I have been on six private girls hiking trips with Ryder-Walker over the last 10 years. My groups have traveled to diverse European destinations from Croatia to Scotland to Montenegro to Switzerland and more.

Ryder-Walker blends top-notch ‘princess’ accommodations with excellent food and drink in charming small towns with unique character.

On these hikes I always feel that I’m roughing it just enough to feel a little of a challenge without the hardship. The friendly guides and the off the beaten path locations are something to treasure with Ryder-Walker.”

– MARGOT G. “We have been organizing private group guided hiking trips with Ryder-Walker for the last decade and are about to embark on our seventh trip! From the Dolomites to the Lofoten islands, Morocco to Greece, Spain to Slovenia, every trip has been well thought out and brilliantly executed. We look forward to being guided by them for the next 10 years!”

– LUCY AND MICHAEL S.

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As we approach this milestone, it’s worth looking back towards where we started, and perhaps even more importantly, forward toward what happens next for the company and trekking more broadly. When RyderWalker first began, it may be hard to believe, the office was little more than a room in a basement where a handful of alpine enthusiasts worked towards sharing their love of the Alps with other hikers. During this era, hotel and transfer reservations were largely done over the phone or on paper.

For the more remote huts without telephone systems, the only way to book a night was to send that reservation all the way across the Atlantic in a letter.

When there was less travel information available, many regions that today are wellknown destinations remained relatively secret. As information availability expanded, so did the viability of the self-guided tour; travelers became more comfortable exploring the remote reaches of the Alps knowing that they could quickly find answers to their travel questions and ambitions. As the availability of information increases, Ryder-Walker continues to adapt to the expectations of an ever more informed traveling clientele.

Those who have traveled with us over multiple years will no doubt have noticed the dramatic change in our tour packets over the last

year: The little paper booklets that were the beginning and the end of our information sharing have been replaced through our partnership with the Vamoos app. As most travelers have access to smartphones at this point, they will have experienced the massive convenience of having such a powerful information bank at their fingertips for finding restaurants, making train reservations, or finding their way to the nearest market. The addition of an app to our tour offerings has allowed us to harness this flexibility, and we are now able to connect travelers to live train schedules, tourist information websites, reserved hotels, taxi drivers, and our office - to name just a few. Perhaps even more importantly, it’s now possible for us to adjust itineraries live in the case of unexpected route closures, weather events, or just a missed connection.

Moving all of our information to the app was a challenge that surprised even us; the sheer volume and variability of the information offered across all of Ryder-Walker’s tours over 40 years of trek development was massive. We’re largely across that finish line now, but we continue to improve the app’s information and presentation as we learn from everybody’s feedback. It is a touch sad to wave goodbye to the booklets, but the new format is undeniably powerful and convenient.

PHOTOS ANDREW MAYOVSKYY ©-STOCK.ADOBE.COM

yder-Walker is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year with its 40th Jubiläum, a celebratory tour where a combination of our most steadfast clients and hiking companions join us and a handful of newer travelers to explore some of our favorite regions in the Alps. We hope to see you there!

PHOTO: ANDREW MAYOVSKYY–ADOBESTOCK.COM©

“Our family has hiked with Ryder-Walker almost every year since 2011.

Our 20-something daughters say the Ryder-Walker trips are the best vacations and my wife and I agree.”

– TIM R

One of the main responses that we received this year was broad excitement and even expectation of GPX integration with the app - a way to track your progress on the trail with live satellite information. Technological giants such as Google Maps and Apple Maps have familiarized nearly everyone with GPX mapping technology, an information form that used to be incredibly niche and required a dedicated satellite-connected device but is now nearly ubiquitous.

The introduction of GPX technology, even if it’s just a fitness watch that measures your footsteps, distance, and altitude is rapidly changing the hiking landscape. Further, massive libraries of trail information and mapping exist in a comprehensive way that even a few years ago would have seemed entirely impossible, making the integration of real-time hiking data a reality. At RyderWalker we are aiming to have GPX integration for our self-guided tours by the 2024 summer season, which will dramatically ease routefinding and offer greater flexibility for all of our guests.

So, how does it work, and what are the limitations? GPX technology itself works by referencing images of terrain that are taken by satellites. What many don’t know about this, is that the resolution of the image provided by that satellite affects the information you receive on your device. For example, a GPX device will read a specific distance between the nodes of information it receives and assume the space in between.

A lower-resolution image will have fewer data points and a less accurate result. A higher-resolution image will have more data points and output a much more accurate number. For this reason, dedicated GPX devices remain a more accurate interpreter of this information than, say, a smartwatch.

Similarly, differences between hikers themselves can offer a surprisingly variable distance or altitude result. A hiker who is extremely fit and can charge straight up a steep ascent will receive a relatively accurate result. A more typical hiker, who may unknowingly cut their own little switchbacks as they ascend or descend, will receive a slightly inflated number. The combination of these variabilities can be observed by any group of hikers with multiple GPX devices, leading to the classic argument of whose distance is the most accurate at the end of the hike, or the question of how on earth did one hiker in the group travel an extra 5 miles when everyone hiked the same route together?

Of course, this variable nature is a limitation of the technology and not a condemnation of it as a useful route-finding and route-recording tool - it certainly is! A similar complication is the quality of the maps produced by routefinding software - are elements like altitude, steepness, or exposure clearly expressed?

We’re currently doing our research and looking for the best possible way to provide this technological upgrade.

Finally, there is the question of offering tours to destinations that still feel undiscovered in the information age. This challenge is a good bit more difficult to resolve. While international trekking may never recapture the aura of mystery that it held 40 years ago, we are still dedicated to discovering hidden gems around the world. Examples in recent years are our Aegean Sea and Epirus Mountains Trek in Greece and Remote Westfjords Trek in Iceland, hikes that are so remote and logistically unintuitive, that we will likely only ever be able to offer them as guided expeditions. So, I suppose the answer is to watch this space and see where we get to explore together next!

“The guided Ryder-Walker trips allow me to combine my passions of enjoying the outdoors, experiencing exciting and wonderful cuisine and wine, and meeting interesting people.

I plan to continue my Ryder-Walker journeys as long as I’m physically able. Look forward to the next 40 years. Congratulations!”

– MARK L. “Your self-guided tours are a delight.

Congratulations on your first forty years.” ­ – JOHN T. “Our group has now done at least a dozen hikes with Ryder-Walker, in eight countries, most of them self-guided. The level of professionalism and the care that goes into planning routes, arranging first-rate lodging and meals, and setting up seamless transport where needed is beyond compare. All the member of the Ryder Walker team we have encountered are a delight to work with and learn from. A hike with Ryder-Walker hike is a yearly highlight.”

– MICHAEL K. “To date, we’ve done both self-guided and private-guided moderate-to-difficult hikes with Ryder-Walker. Well-organized, always responsive, they are the best at what they do!

But most remarkably, Ryder-Walker takes a personal interest in us, and in meeting all our expectations. And then finds a way to exceed them. Well done. Damn well done.”

– ANITA C. AND AMY L. “Our family has enjoyed incredible trips with Ryder-Walker for the last ten years. Whether with strangers, friends, family, or even solo, each hike has drawn us closer to one another, and of course, the planet. Every adventure has been unforgettable. We look forward to the next one!”

– MARTHA H. “From strangers to firm friends for 25 years and counting! Launched on the Ryder-Walker Bregaglia Circuit trip (Switzerland & Italy) in 1998, our bond has survived and thrived over the years through many shared RW and similar adventures.

Thank you, Ryder-Walker!”

– TRACY AND KEN M. “My wife and I have had many adventures over 20 years of hiking with Ryder-Walker and made lifetime friends with fellow hikers and staff.

The big physical challenges have inspired us to keep exercising for the next hike.

Our two boys and daughter-in-law have joined us on Ryder-Walker European hikes, and we found it really made great family adventures. You will never find a more professional group managing all our needs 24 hours a day and everyone has a great time and if you don’t jump on the tram, you will miss a piece of your life.”

– CHEYENNE AND PAT C.

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JUBLIÄUM TREK

SEPTEMBER 27 - OCTOBER 4, 2024

“We’ve had many wonderful adventures over 20 years of hiking with Ryder-Walker and made lifetime friends with fellow hikers and staff. You’ll never find a more professional group managing all your needs twenty-four hours a day and everyone has a great time. If you don’t jump on the tram, you’ll miss a piece of your life.”

—Pat and Cheyenne C.

EUROPE

ENGADINE ANNIVERSARY TREK

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ur 40th Jubliäum adventure kicks off in the picturesque, Swiss alpine resort village of Klosters, then journeys to the quaint village of Guarda, before a night at our romantic hotel perched at 8057 feet, and culminates with a luxurious stay at our 5-Star grand hotel in Pontresina. Each accommodation has been carefully selected for its ambiance, cuisine, and exceptional level of comfort. The Engadine Valley

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate hiking up to 8 miles with ascents up to 2,500 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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lies in the heart of the Swiss Alps and runs from the Engadine Lakes in the south to the Inn River in the north. It’s boasts charming towns, villages, and a rich blend of Swiss and Romansh culture. Our anniversary trek offers a variety of moderate hikes to more challenging high-alpine routes with pristine alpine landscapes of glacial lakes, towering peaks, and lush meadows.

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TERRAIN

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PHOTO: RYDER-WALKER GUIDES© JEFF GOULD

Join us in exploring the captivating mountains of the Swiss Engadine.

EASY TO MODERATE HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: KLOSTERS Transfer to the Alpine resort village of Klosters. Meet your guides and group for welcome drinks and dinner.

DAY 2: ALPENROSLI A looping day hike out of our hotel in Klosters Platz first heads through Klosters Dorf before climbing to the Berghaus Alpenrosli for a proper alpine lunch. The afternoon’s descent brings us through appropriately named farm enclave of ‘Alp’ and then on through the Walser village of Monbiel and a beautiful finish to Klosters. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2000 ft.

DAY 3: JÖRISEEN An incredible day crossing the Jöriseen , a series of beautifully colored glacial lakes.

We start with a short transfer to the Berghaus Vereina to set up our climb to the high basin of the Jöri lakes. After an idyllic picnic spot, we cross the Jörifless Pass to descend the eastern side of Flüela Pass. The route ends with a quick transfer to the hillside village of Guarda. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2400/2800 ft.

DAY 4: CHAMONNA TUOI Today we hike up the charming Val Tuoi. This verdant valley terminates at the Austrian border. The iconic Piz Buin towers over the head of the valley, above our destination, the Chamonna Tuoi. The hut offers a delicious menu for lunch. Return to Guarda on a forested trail on the south side of the valley. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500 ft.

DAY 5: LEJ MURAGL AND TSCHUMAS DA MOUTTAS We transfer to the Upper Engadine valley region where we ascend into the wilderness of Val Champagna and to the alpine gem, Lej Muragl before crossing the Tschumas da Muottas, mountain pass. Overnight at the Romantik Hotel Muottas Muragl. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3500/1000 ft. An easier option today is an out and back hike and alpine picnic to Lake Lej Muragl. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1000 ft.

DAY 6: PIZ PADELLA We begin with a funicular ride offering arguably the finest vista in the Alps followed by a traverse to one of the highest hikeable summits in the region before descending to the charming village of Pontresina. Distance: up to 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 3400 ft. An easier option today is a hike to Piz Padella without the summit. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 2000/1000 ft.

DAY 7: VAL FEX The Val Fex is a gem that is often overlooked in the Upper Engadine. From Sils Maria we meander through forested terrain to gain the flanks of the Muott’Ota, then embark on a switchback up this bald summit to enjoy views of the Silsersee, Maloja, the Val Bregaglia and the peaks surrounding the Lunghin Pass. Hike down the valley through charming hamlets with options to descend back to town on sinuous farm roads, or climb to the Furtschellas cable car for a ride back to our grand hotel.

Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2200 ft.

GUIDED TOUR*

September 27 – October 4 Price: $5,850 (single +$750) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

June – October Price: $6,800 (single +$750)

†Price based on a group of four.

DETAILS

• 7 nights, 8 days • 7 nights superior and old-world hotels.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Zurich *All ground transportation and lift tickets between Klosters and Pontresina included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change.

Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

Klosters

DAY 8: DEPART

PHOTOS: DAVID TALJAT©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM,GANZTWINS©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

DATES & PRICING

Guarda

SWITZERLAND

Muottas Muragl

Piz Ot Las Trais Fluors

Pontresina Piz Languard

Piz Lunghin

Sils Maria Piz Bernina

ITALY

Piz Palü

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GENERAL INFORMATION

We are in the office 9 am to 5 pm Mountain Time and are happy to talk to you by phone. You can also send us an email or communicate via social media. You’ll always connect with someone that knows (and loves) what they’re talking about and is excited to help you plan your next adventure.

Early registration is recommended since many preferred inns fill up early. All tours are subject to availability. Last minute booking fees may apply.

BOOKING CONDITIONS • Guided and Self-Guided tours require a $500 deposit per person.

• PRIVATE-GUIDED tours require 25% of the total cost as a deposit per person.

• Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure.

• Bookings within 90 days of the tour’s starting date must pay deposit upon signing up and final balance once hotels are confirmed.

• Prices are quoted in U.S. Dollars and all payments must be made as such. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, checks, and wire transfers.

• Upon receipt of your deposit, you will receive a confirmation email and invoice receipt along with a portal website link containing mandatory waivers and releases for you to sign, and travel insurance information.

• Final payment is due 90 days prior to your start date. A final balance invoice is sent prior to the due date.

FINAL PACKAGE • Final trek information is sent approximately 30 days prior to departure.

• All travelers receive daily itineraries, gateway travel instructions, cultural information, packing/ equipment list and more.

• Self-Guided travelers receive additional on the trail information with daily hike descriptions and

GPX map files, as well as transfer information when applicable.

• Last minute registrations follow an expedited timeline and additional charges including FedEx charges may apply.

HOW DO I BOOK A TRIP • Visit the Ryder-Walker website at ryderwalker. com/booking and sign up directly by choosing the trek you are interested in and click on Book Now, or call +1 970-728-6481 / 888-586-8365 for assistance.

CHANGE FEES • Every amendment/change requested within 90 days of the tour start date is subject to an additional minimum cost of $50 per person, whether or not the request is fulfilled (i.e. hotel change, room change, taxi change, etc.).

• Requests to alter our standard itineraries will incur a larger fee calculated on a case-by-case basis.

• There is a $125 per person late booking fee for signing up 60 days or less from departure.

• There is a $125 per person fee to cancel a guest and transfer that booking to a new guest.

• There is a $125 per person fee to change the tour start date after accommodations are confirmed; this fee changes to 10% of the tour cost if requested within 90 days of the existing tour start date.

RESCHEDULING We are happy to help you reschedule a guided, private-guided or independent tour. If rescheduling is not an option then please refer to our cancellation policies.

CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS Guided and Self-Guided Trips • Ryder-Walker must receive a written notice of cancellation sent by mail or email. Your cancellation is effective when you receive a written receipt from Ryder-Walker confirming cancellation.

• Cancellations within 15 days after booking receive full refund unless booked within 90 days of start date.

• Cancellations between 16 days after booking

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to 90 days prior to tour departure: forfeit $125 per person. A credit memo for the remaining balance will be issued for use on any RyderWalker tour within 24 months of cancellation effective date.

• C ancellations between 90 and 46 days prior to tour start date forfeit 25% of amount paid to date. A credit memo for the remaining balance will be issued for use on any RyderWalker tour within 24 months of cancellation effective date.

• Cancellations 45 days or less before the tour start date forfeit 100% of amount paid to date.

Private-Guided Trips • Cancellations up to 90 days prior to tour departure: forfeit deposit worth 25% of the cost.

A credit memo for the remaining balance will be issued for use on any Ryder-Walker tour within 24 months of cancellation effective date.

• Cancellations within 90 days of tour departure: forfeit 100% of the cost.

Cancellation due to Force Majeure Certain circumstances may require Ryder-Walker to cancel a trip. We will not cancel less than 45 days prior to departure except due to Force Majeure, unusual or unforeseen circumstances outside Ryder-Walker’s control. If Ryder-Walker cancels a trip for any reason other than the client’s request, clients will have either of the following options: • Transfer the booking to another trip and pay any difference in price between the originally purchased trip and that of a more expensive trip; or receive a refund of the difference if the originally purchased trip is more expensive than the one to which you transfer.

• Receive a credit memo for any money paid to be used for a future Ryder-Walker trip. Credit memo is valid for two years from the original year the trip was booked.

• Ryder-Walker is not responsible or liable for any incidental costs, expenses or consequential losses incurred as a result of cancellation.

PHOTOS: JMHMAICA©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

ABOUT RYDER-WALKER Ryder-Walker Alpine Adventures is a family owned and operated adventure travel company based in Telluride, Colorado. We are a dedicated team of outdoor fanatics who are delighted to provide you with unique, memorable adventures in the most dramatic and breathtaking regions on earth.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GUIDED AND SELF-GUIDED If you would like a stress-free trek without having to make all the decisions, a guided trek is for you. From luggage transfers and dinner reservations to choosing the perfect trail for the weather that day, you don’t have to worry about a thing. On the trail, guides communicate with the locals and explain about the region where you’re hiking. Many hidden treasures are known only to our guides, such as an off the beaten path picnic spot, trail, or restaurant!

All of our self-guided trips are easy to navigate and run smoothly. Some of the pros of self-guided is that there’s no pressure to accommodate others and ultimately you can do whatever you want as long as you make it to all of your hotel reservations. Be aware that we do not have Ryder-Walker employees in the area when you are traveling self-guided.

DOES IT MATTER WHICH DAY I START MY SELF-GUIDED TRIP? The only restriction for your start date is that it cannot be the same as our Guided group for that trip. Otherwise, as long as you choose a date within the hiking season, the start date is up to you! Visit Guided Trek Dates on our website ryderwalker.com.

WHEN SHOULD I BOOK?/WHEN IS THE LATEST I CAN BOOK? We recommend you book as soon as possible! The sooner you commit to a trip, the better chance we have of getting you into the best accommodations and in private rooms in huts. Two – three months in advance is usually not a problem although lately with travel back in full swing, smaller accommodations are increasingly more difficult to book during peak summer season. That said, we continue to have success with most last minute bookings as well.

SHOULD I GET TRIP INSURANCE? DO YOU PARTNER WITH ANYONE? Yes, and yes! We highly recommend purchasing trip insurance. Whether or not you have any expectations of needing it, you truly never know when an illness, injury, family emergency, etc. might get in the way of your travel. We partner with TravelEx but you are welcome to use any company you’d like.

WHAT IF THE TRIP IS CANCELLED DUE TO A BAN ON NON-ESSENTIAL TRAVEL OR FORCE MAJEURE? Certain circumstances may require Ryder-Walker to cancel a trip. We will not cancel less than 45 days prior to departure except due to Force Majeure, unusual or unforeseen circumstances outside Ryder-Walker’s control. See our cancellation policy on page 7 for details.

WHAT TYPE OF SUITCASE AND HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN/SHOULD I BRING? Specific information about luggage restrictions will be provided in your final package. We suggest having only one piece of luggage weighing no more than 50 lbs. in addition to your backpack. If you are embarking on other travels before/after your trek, storing luggage is the best way to go.

WHAT IF I CAN’T HIKE FOR SOME REASON (I.E. INJURED, BAD WEATHER)?

If you are injured, you can choose to transfer between towns, either by bus, train, or taxi. Specifics for how to do this will be in your final package.

Bad weather may prevent you from doing the entire hike. Check your daily hike descriptions – most have a shorter or easier option. You may have to default to public transportation or private taxi to the next destination.

WHAT SIZE BACKPACK IS BEST? For trips where you have access to your luggage throughout, we recommend a 20 to 30-liter backpack. If you have any nights without luggage, either pack extra light, or add a few liters to the size of your pack. Keep it to the essentials, but it is better to have extra space in a big bag than not enough room to carry what you want.

WHAT DO I NEED FOR HUT NIGHTS? For treks that involve one or two nights in a hut or bunk, some hikers enjoy carrying a larger backpack. We advise at least 2400 cubin in/40 L. This larger bag allows you to bring overnight items such as an extra pair of socks, comfy shoes, underwear, a towel, toiletries, and medications. Many also prefer to bring a book or journal and a small headlamp, as well as ear plugs, a travel sheet or sleeping bag liner.

DO I NEED A FIRST AID KIT? If you are on a self-guided trip it is essential you carry a first aid kit with you while you are hiking.

CAN I TRAVEL ON A PLANE WITH TREKKING POLES? A question we are often asked about trekking poles is whether they will raise any suspicion while traveling or flying. On trains and buses, you should have no problem; trekking poles are a common sight, especially in the Alps, and nobody will give you any trouble. TSA and airport security might be a different story, though. Although some poles are allowed to be carried onto planes, ultimately it falls to the judgment of the TSA security person you are interacting with. When in doubt, check the bag with your poles.

WHAT TYPE OF ROOM WILL I GET? We book the “standard” version of whichever type of room you select – Double: 1 double bed, Twin: 2 separate single beds, or Single: 1 single bed. If you are interested in a different type of room such as a room for 3 or 4 people, or upgrades, these options will vary depending on the trip and availability. Some hotels have a hairdryer but it’s less common than in the US. Most have toiletries but we always recommend bringing travel size bottles of what you need. Most accommodations have WiFi, and you will have cell service on many of the hiking trails. Mountain huts may not have WiFi available.

WHAT IS A ROOM UPGRADE? If you would like us to inquire for other types of rooms – whether you’re hoping for mountain views, a balcony, a larger bed, a suite, a room for 3 people, etc., we can inquire and give you a quote for upgrades once you sign up and book the trip. Most will come at an extra cost.

WHAT IS HALF BOARD? This means that breakfast and dinner are included at your accommodation.

In most cases, breakfast is a buffet and dinner will either be a set menu or include limited options, not a la carte!

CAN YOU ACCOMMODATE MY FOOD RESTRICTIONS? If you let us know when you sign up about any dietary restrictions, we will be sure to communicate those needs to all of your accommodations. If your diet is particularly restricted, make sure to bring supplements and your favorite bars/snacks/nuts/etc. from home.

11

SELF-GUIDED 5-DAY MINI TREKS SHORT ON TIME? WE HAVE THE TRIP FOR YOU!

A

dd adventure into your business trip or romantic getaway with Ryder-Walker’s 5-day mini treks. Choose from six favorite destinations, perfect for those with limited time seeking an adventurous add-on.

BERNER OBERLAND GATEWAY: BERN OR ZÜRICH

Available Mid June – September

Available Mid June – Mid October

Available Late June – Late September

Scenic valleys, countless lakes, and rolling hills typify the Salzkammergut – the mountain region above Salzburg and home to our Heart of Austria trek. The Salzkammergut is dotted with historic spa towns that lie along the landmark salt road that descends from the UNESCO World Heritage village of Hallstatt. Steeped in medieval lore, the Salzkammergut will satisfy your hunger for adventure and history. The jewel of the Salzkammergut is its stunning alpine lakes, which stretch across the entirety of the valleys below and support the area’s whimsical, fairy-tale-like mood. The hiking has something for everyone, and you will thoroughly enjoy the Austrian hospitality.

The Engadine is an enchanted valley in southeastern Switzerland that has something for everyone. The entire region is supported by a network of railways, trams, and funiculars that can take you to the base of any peak and let you finish your day early with a train ride home. Medieval villages sit aside mirrorlike mountain lakes, fields of wildflowers, and largely undisturbed ancient forests of larch and stone pine. For our shortened stopover trek, we have focused on the Upper Engadine, between the villages of Zuoz and Soglio. We feel that the southern half of the valley represents its cultural heart, while offering some of the most flexible and stunning hiking in the region.

The peaks of the Berner Oberland are a Swiss natural treasure - boasting such world-famous names as the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. A person passionate about hiking could spend their entire life exploring the depth and quality of the Berner Oberland trekking, where the trails are immaculately maintained, and reach essentially any point of interest you could hope to visit in the region. For this shortened expedition, we have focused on the villages surrounding the Lauterbrunnen, a valley that is so beautiful it is almost spiritual. Here, hundreds of waterfalls roar down the many thousand-foot cliffs that hem in the valley, with the glaciated faces of the Mönch and Jungfrau looming overhead.

Itinerary 4 nights/3 hikes: Bad Goisern to Gosau Day hike to Gosausee Lake back to Gosau Gosau to Hallstatt

Itinerary 4 nights/3 hikes: Zuoz to Pontresina Pontresina to Sils Maria Sils Maria to Soglio

Itinerary 4 nights/3 hikes: Interlaken to Grindelwald Grindelwald to Wengen Wengen to Mürren

n Comfort 3 / Effort 2 / Terrain 2 Moderate: up to 8 miles, ascents up to 2600 ft.

n Comfort 4 / Effort 2+ / Terrain 2 Moderate: up to 10.5 miles, ascents up to 2500 ft.

n Comfort 3 / Effort 3 / Terrain 3 Moderate: up to 9 miles, ascents up to 3500 ft.

$1725 (single +$210)

$1945 (single +$245)

$1760 (single +$290)

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PHOTO: RYDERWALKERGUIDE©, PANDIONHIATUS3©-DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM, SANTIRF©-DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM,

SWISS ENGADINE GATEWAY: ZÜRICH

HEART OF AUSTRIA GATEWAY: SALZBURG

OUR FAVORITE DESTINATIONS

T

FROM THE ALPS TO THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS

he destinations chosen for our shorter treks are easily accessible from major international airports, and they posess all the hallmark features found in our favorite treks in mountain ranges in Europe and America.

PHOTOS: RYDER-WALKER, RYDERWALKERGUIDE©, KENFUHRER©,

ITALIAN DOLOMITES GATEWAY: VENICE

Available Late June – Mid September

CHAMONIX TO CHAMPEX GATEWAY: GENEVA

Available Late June – Mid September

TELLURIDE TREK GATEWAY: MONTROSE, COLORADO

The valleys above Venice, Italy run quickly into the Italian Dolomites and the Italian Tyrol, a series of precipitous limestone peaks that jut out of the earth. It is a region that boasts some of the best hiking and hotels in the world.

In the Italian Dolomites, we have focused on the journey between the Alp Siusi, the largest meadow in the Alps, and the Alta Badia, the mountainous heart of the Dolomites, and the historical center of the conflict between Austria and Italy in the First World War. The Dolomites strike the perfect balance between staggeringly beautiful hiking and excellent accommodations.

The villages in the region are not only quaint and historic, but also surprisingly quiet.

The French Savoie is the mountainous heart of the Alps where the queen of the Alps herself, the Mont Blanc, rises high above the other towering peaks. Our shortened itinerary has you experiencing the first four hikes along the famous Hiker’s Haute Route. Traveling eastward, begin in the bustling alpine center of Chamonix, with its fabulous views of the Mer de Glace and the Aiguille du Midi; move on to Argentière, gateway to the Grand Montets; then cross the border into Switzerland to the tiny hamlet of Trient. After enjoying breathtaking views of the Rhone Valley, reach the sleepy village of Champex, a Swiss lakeside resort with a quiet atmosphere and lovely location.

Majestic snow-capped peaks, expansive alpine meadows, tumbling waterfalls, and more beckon hikers to explore the San Juan Mountains of Southwestern Colorado; home of Ryder-Walker Alpine Adventures. This popular trek is centered around the former Victorian mining town of Telluride. Tucked away in a box canyon surrounded by summits, Telluride is also a National Historic Landmark District. Trekking in the Rocky Mountains offers a motherlode of scenic hikes that take you from remote valleys to high alpine lakes and passes replete with endless views, hiking beneath the shadows of 14,000 ft. peaks. There are easier hiking options for this trip as well.

Itinerary 4 nights/3 hikes: Völs am Schlern to Rifugio Alpe di Tires Rifugio Alpe di Tires to Sëlva Sëlva to Corvara

Itinerary 4 nights/3 hikes: Chamonix to Argentière Argentière to Trient Trient to Champex

Itinerary 4 nights/3 hikes: Telluride Hope Lake Hike Telluride Ajax Summit Hike Telluride Wasatch Trail Hike

n Comfort 3 / Effort 3 / Terrain 3 Moderate: up to 9 miles, ascents up to 3100 ft.

n Comfort 3 / Effort 3 / Terrain 3 Moderate: up to 8 miles, ascents up to 3500 ft.

n Comfort 4 / Effort 2-3+ / Terrain 2-3 Moderate: 5 – 8 miles, ascents 1400 – 3800 ft.

$1950 (single +$380)

$1590 (single +$200)

$1700 (single +$370)

Available Late June – Early October

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CHOOSING THE

RIGHT TRIP FOR YOU

E

ach Ryder-Walker trip offers a unique blend of elements, including adventure, physical challenge, and comfort.

Our trip rating system assigns a number between 1 and 4 to each of the three elements by rating them for Comfort, Effort and Terrain, so that you can best choose the trek that matches your level of intensity and comfort.

When browsing the catalog you will see our tours begin with our easy to moderate trips, progress to moderate to challenging and end with our most challenging treks. We have also color coordinated each section accordingly so it is easy to locate the type of trip you desire based on the level of difficulty.

COMFORT

EFFORT

TERRAIN

1. Primarily simple accommodations,

1. Gentle hikes up to 8 miles with

1. Well maintained and graded

2. A mix of simple accommodations

2. Moderate hikes up to

2. Steeper, well maintained

3. Primarily charming country inns

3. Moderately strenuous hikes up

3. Steeper, occasionally

1500 feet of elevation gain.

and charming country inns or first class inns.

10 miles with up to 2700 feet of elevation gain.

and first class inns with best accommodations available in remote locations.

4. Strenuous hikes exceeding

2

maintained mountain paths possibly with rough footing and/or exposure.

4. Steep, rarely maintained

4000 feet of elevation gain.

class accommodations.

1

mountain paths possibly with rough footing.

to 12 miles with up to 4000 feet of elevation gain.

4. All superior country inns and first

mountain paths.

mountain paths with exposure and rough footing.

3

4

A note regarding our rating system: Even the tamest trail can present a wild adventure in unusual conditions, and snow, fog, lightning, rockfall, landslides and avalanches can completely change the nature of all levels of hiking terrain.

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PHOTOS: RYDER-WALKER©, KEN FUHRER©

including berghauses, huts and inns.

RYDER-WALKER’S GUIDE TO SELECTING YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE Below is a list of all our Guided and Self-Guided tours based on difficulty.

The catalog is also color coded: green represents easy to moderate hiking trips, orange, moderate to challenging and blue, challenging.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING *Guided trips also offered self-guided.

AFRICA

Morocco: Atlas Mountains Trek (guided, page 70)

EUROPE

EASY TO MODERATE HIKING *Guided trips also offered self-guided.

PHOTO: RYDER-WALKER GUIDE©

EUROPE

Austria: Mozart Alpine Lakes Walk (self-guided, page 99) Allegra Engadine (self-guided, page 99) Highlights of Switzerland (guided, page 22) England: The Cotswolds (guided, page 24) Wales: Countryside, Castles and Coastline (guided, page 26) Cornwall England: Cornish Coastal Path (guided, page 28) Heart of Austria* (guided, page 30) Ambiance Italian Dolomites (self-guided, page 99) Provence: Hill Towns of the Luberon (self-guided, page 96) Cotswolds Way (self-guided, page 96) Capri and the Amalfi Coast (self-guided, page 96) Via Ladinia: Pastorale (self-guided, page 99) Ireland’s Dingle Way (self-guided, page 96) Scotland: Highlands and Islands (guided, page 32) Engadine Trek* (guided, page 34) Sicily: The Aeolian Islands (guided, page 36) Montenegro & Croatia: Highlights of the Adriatic Coast (guided, page 40) Pastoral Berner Oberland (self-guided, page 99) Winter Engadine Holiday (self-guided, page 96) The Liechtenstein Trail (self-guided, page 96) Croatia: The Dalmatian Cost (self-guided, page 97) Jungfrau Loop (self-guided, page 97) Slovenia: Waterfalls and Gorges (self-guided, page 99) Highlights of Italy: Courmayeur, Cogne, & Champoluc (guided, page 44)

NORTH AMERICA

New Mexico: Land of Enchantment, Santa Fe to Taos* (guided, page 38) Sedona, Arizona Trek: Red Rock Country (guided, page 42)

Northern Greece: Agean Sea and Epirus Mountains (guided, page 46) Austria: Wilder Kaiser Mountain Trek (self-guided, page 97) Italian Dolomites Trek* (guided, page 48) High Peaks of Bavaria and Tyrol* (guided, page 50) French Alps: Chamonix Mont Blanc to Val d’Isère (guided, page 56) Tuscany, Italy, Walking Tour: A Path Through History (self-guided, page 97) Dolomites Rifugio Trek (self-guided, page 97) Italian Lakes District Hike: Como, Varenna, Menaggio & Bellagio* (guided, page 58) Portugal: The Southwestern Scenic Coastal Trek* (guided, page 62) Via Ladinia: Heart of the Italian Dolomites* (guided, page 64) Dolomiti di Brenta* (guided, page 66) Haute Pyrénées Mountain Trek: From France to Spain (guided, page 68) Berner Oberland Trek (self-guided, page 97) Berner Oberland Traverse (self-guided, website) Spanish Mediterranean: Costa Brava (self-guided, page 98) Ticino: Swiss Lake District (self-guided, page98) Tour du Mont Blanc Vitesse (self-guided, page 98) Tour du Mont Blanc* (guided, page 72) Corsica: French Isle Adventure Trek (guided, page 74) Engadine Summit Series* (guided, page 76) Hiker’s Haute Route* (guided, page 78) Slovenia: Julian Alps Summit Series (guided, page 80) Swiss Haute Route (self-guided, page 98)

NORTH AMERICA

Rocky Mountain High Life: Aspen to Telluride (guided, page 52) Telluride Trek (self-guided, page 98)

SOUTH AMERICA

Peru: The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (guided, page 54) Argentine Patagonia: The Lakes District (guided, page 60)

CHALLENGING HIKING

*Guided trips also offered self-guided.

ASIA

India: Markha Valley Trek (guided, page 82) Bhutan: Thimphu, Lingzhi, Laya Trek (guided, page 84) Nepal: The Forbidden Kingdom of Mustang (guided, page 94)

EUROPE

Appenzell Hut Hop (self-guided, page 98) Matterhorn Trek* (guided, page 86) Iceland: The Remote Westfjords (guided, page 88) Eiger Trail* (guided, page 90) Norway: The Islands of Lofoten (guided, page 92)

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INSPIRED

CUISINE T

16

NORMA©-ADOBESTOCK.COM, LUNAMARINA©-ADOBESTOCK.COM

PHOTOS SARSMIS©-DEPOSITPHOTO.COM, ЕГОР ФОМИН©-;ADOBESTOCK.COM

he best way to celebrate a memorable day on the trail is with a delicious meal. The accommodations we choose offer some of the best in regional and haute cuisine, with inspired menus and a unique array of local wines and beverages. Many of our chefs enjoy the highest culinary rankings awarded by the Gault Millau and Michelin restaurant guides, with some even earning “Chef of the Year” distinctions for their respective countries.

Local and regionally sourced food is offered; whether it’s a fireside meal at a four-star hotel, or a hearty bowl of soup on the sun deck of a mountain hut, we find the best cuisine available in each location.

FIRST-CLASS

ACCOMMODATIONS O

PHOTOS HOTEL MEISSER©-LANDHAUS KOLLER©, GRAND HOTE METSOV©, MOUNTAIN LODGES OF PERU©

ur goal is to choose the very best accommodation in every village, hamlet, or high mountain pass we travel through. From cozy, wood - paneled chalets with fluffy down comforters, to grand old-world hotels perfecting the art of hospitality, to converted patrician homes, we seek the inns that exemplify the character of each village and the charm of days gone by. In more remote destinations and on treks we stay up high in hostelries and alpine refuges, wherever we go we strive to provide the perfect balance between comfort, charm, and amenity.

Each trip is different, and if superb accommodations are a priority for you, let us know, and we will help you select those trips with the highest levels of comfort.

17

TAKING A CLOSER LOOK

A

AT HUTS

lpine huts, rifugios, cabanes, kočas, or husets can be found across the world in the most secluded areas.

They provide travelers with shelter, a bed, and a hot meal at strategic points, so great traverses can be accomplished without having to carry camping equipment. In most cases, huts can only be supplied by helicopters, supply lifts, or mules. This means that every supply, from toilet paper to your dinner, has to be transported to and from the hut by these specific means of transport.

On some Ryder-Walker Alpine Adventures, you will be accommodated at a hut for one or more nights. The standard of huts varies greatly depending on the trek. Huts can range from a simple and rustic building with shared bunkroom, and shared bathrooms, very little electricity or running water, to a more luxurious, recently renovated inn high up in the mountains with your own bedroom and half-bath ensuite.

LEVEL 1 HUT:

This is the most basic of mountain huts, without any private bedrooms or bathrooms. All guests are accommodated in dorm-style sleeping quarters; there are no showers and running water is sometimes limited. In rare instances, guests will need to use an outhouse. The only bedding provided are wool blankets and simple pillows that are shared.

Guests must bring sleep sheets, toiletries and towels as well as a headlamp as electricity is limited.

LEVEL 2 HUT:

One step up from the most basic equipped hut, offering shared bedrooms and bathrooms with running water. Sometimes men and women sleep separate and there are separate showers provided.

Shared bedroom sizes may vary from 4 to 8 people per room.

Showers at some locations are on timers due to the limited amount of water. Bedding may be provided but we recommend bringing your own sleep sheets, toiletries and towels. We also recommend bringing a headlamp.

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LEVEL 3 HUT:

These huts offer some private rooms, as well as small shared rooms (up to 4 people). Some private bathrooms and showers as well as communal bathrooms are available. These huts are more like mountain inns in secluded areas.

Some of the huts provide bedding yet we still suggest bringing a sleep sheet as mostly you will be sleeping with wool blankets. No towels or toiletries are provided.

LEVEL 4 HUT:

They are rare but they do exist.

Some are newly renovated buildings with double, triple and quadruple bedrooms including en suite bathrooms and showers, hotel bedding, duvets and fluffy pillows and towels.

Although we always inquire for private bedrooms, bathrooms and showers, sometimes it’s not possible due to the location and nature of the hut.

PHOTOS: KEN FUHRER©, RYDER-WALKER GUIDE©, EILEEN BURNS©, RYDER-WALKER GUIDE©

Hiking in the mountains, whether in the Alps, the Himalayas, or the Atlas Mountains is an adventure, and part of the adventurous experience is to, at times, step out of your comfort zone and embrace the local culture, cuisine and traditions.

5 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD BOOK A GUIDED TREK

P

lanning the perfect hiking trip involves making numerous decisions. If you would like to take a stressfree trek without having to make all the decisions, a guided trek is for you. Below are five reasons why traveling with a guide will make for an unforgettable experience.

1. EASE OF TRAVEL

PHOTOS: RYDER-WALKER GUIDES©

Traveling with a guide adds a certain comfort level to your trip. You don’t have to worry about anything — from luggage transfers and dinner reservations to choosing the perfect trails and following the weather. Your guide will take care of it all. You just show up and hike.

2. LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

The Ryder-Walker guide team adds a wealth of knowledge to each trek. Some of our guides are European and grew up hiking and guiding in the Alps, while others have been leading hiking expeditions in Europe and other countries around the world for years. On guided treks you learn about the region, culture and the local people. You are taken on trails that are off-the-beaten-path and not included on our self-guided itineraries. Many local treasures are known only to our guides, and they can’t wait to share these with you as they strive to create a unique experience on each trip and for each guest.

3. OVERCOME LANGUAGE BARRIERS

Most of our guides speak the local languages quite well. Having your own translator can help with communication, both in language and cultural practices. With the assistance of our guides, communication with locals will be uncomplicated.

4. TAILORED TO YOUR NEEDS

On guided treks, whether beginner or expert, our team will tailor each day to meet the group’s needs. All of our larger group trips have two guides so groups can split up according to ability if necessary. Each day your guide will provide an itinerary fit for the group, depending on terrain, weather and hiking conditions.

It’s their goal to provide you with a memorable day filled with adventure.

5. PERSONAL CONNECTIONS

Over time, our guides have formed invaluable connections and bonds with the locals in the towns we visit around the world.

Often, local staff will go out of their way to contribute to making the Ryder-Walker Alpine Adventure unique and unforgettable. The guide and guests also form friendships with each other and over the years many guests come back to hike with their favorite guides or schedule Ryder-Walker trips with friends met on the trail.

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SELF-GUIDED TRAVEL

CHOOSE YOUR TRIP AND YOUR DATES

S

elf-guided travel offers you the opportunity to be your own guide, navigate like a pro and pick your own dates. Find a tour that you like, tell us the date that you’d like to begin, and we’ll do the rest.

• We book hotel accommodations, luggage transfers and logistics specific to the tour. Note: some accommodations are unreachable by vehicle and you will not receive luggage at those huts/inns.

• We also offer self-guided easygoing tours with three to four hours of hiking per day on predominantly gentle trails. This format allows more time for sightseeing, exploring villages, and enjoying the comforts of your hotel.

• Our self-guided 5-day mini-treks are a series of shorter, three-hike, fournight treks that focus on bringing you straight to some of our favorite destinations in the world. All of these treks are easily accessed within hours from some of the most romantic and historic European cities. Please visit our website for more details.

PHOTOS, TOP LEFT TO BOTTOM: BUCKLAND©, RYDER-WALKER GUIDE©, DAVE HACKEM©, TOP RIGHT: KEN FUHRER©

• All trip details are downloaded and available offline in the Vamoos app, including: • Trek itinerary, hotels, and other important trip documents.

• GPX tracks for each day hike and overall itinerary.

• Arrival and departure directions.

• Real time flight information and alerts.

• Notifications directly from Ryder-Walker with the ability to reply in the app.

• Offline maps with key locations and our local recommendations.

• Up-to-date weather forecasts.

• Digital diary to share pictures and comments with your friends and family.

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GUIDED TRAVEL LEAVE IT TO US

O

ur guides have spent years, in fact decades, exploring alpine regions around the world. They know what makes a region unique, whether it’s savoring the unparalleled Gerstensuppe, a delightful bowl of soup in the enchanting Engadine Valley of eastern Switzerland, or delving into the vibrant tapestry of local markets, exploring iconic ruins, and participating in age-old traditional rituals during our Peru: The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. We’re committed to indulging you in every facet of the journey.

Join a Ryder-Walker guided tour and get ready for an unforgettable experience. Not only is the scenery breathtakingly beautiful, but our trip leaders are also renowned guides who are determined to make sure you return home with plenty of stories to share, and a photo album filled with exceptional memories.

• Spend more time enjoying your vacation and less time worrying about logistics.

• From luggage transfers and hotel reservations, to finding the trailhead and ordering wine, our guides make sure that you have everything you need.

• If you like to know the names of mountain peak along the way, then a guided tour is for you.

• Uncork a surprise bottle of wine at the end of a long hike.

• Take a side trip to watch artisan cheese-making on a French hillside.

• Succumb to the aroma of freshly baked focaccia as your guide unwraps lunch in northern Italy.

• Celebrate life with a group of fellow hikers that love to travel and cherish the great outdoors.

What more can we say? These earthly pleasures offer a small taste of what’s in store for the hiker that chooses a Ryder-Walker guided tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED TRAVEL THE PERSONAL TOUCH

F

rom birthdays and anniversaries, to reunions and corporate retreats, a private hiking tour is a great way to celebrate any special occasion. We will tailor your trip to meet the interests of your group, and best of all you pick the tour dates.

Our guides will show you the time of your life, and they know just the right personal touches to make your private-guided trip extraordinary.

PHOTOS: RYDER-WALKER GUIDES©,

• We help you design an itinerary that reflects the needs of your group, whether it is a trip for two or twenty.

• You itierary can be flexible based on the desires of the group members.

• We are happy to tailor each day’s itinerary to “bag” a peak, ski on a glacier, tandem paraglide or simply sightsee, depending on your desires.

• Private-guided dates are limited so please book early.

• Early registrants may have the option to buy out one of our prescheduled guided tours.

• Groups that purchase a previously prescheduled group trip in its entirety (8 spots) receive guided pricing.

• Choose from a limitless inventory of standard and customized itineraries.

Visit pages 100 and 101 for pricing on many of our private tours. Prices reflect per person costs with the services of one guide. Prices will increase or decrease depending on group size and the addition of more guides. Trip customization will also affect the cost.

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“The guides were always focused on providing the best possible experience for each individual on the trip, and we had quite a diverse group.”

—Chris P.

EUROPE

HIGHLIGHTS OF SWITZERLAND

T

his trek is designed to provide exceptional hiking with a broad range of physical challenge. This makes it perfect for families and parties with different interests and abilities. It is also designed to please those who prefer to unpack and stay unpacked for a few days at a time.

We begin in Sils Maria, one of the loveliest mountain towns on the planet. Nestled between two lakes at 5905 feet and dominated by high peaks all around, Sils Maria may be the Alps’ most peaceful mountain town.

TRIP RATINGS

Easy to challenging hiking – this trip is designed to accommodate all levels.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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Transfer by van through the Italian Lakes District to the canton of Ticino, and the town of Locarno, the heart of Italian speaking Switzerland. Explore ancient, time-forgotten hill towns and historic pathways from our superb lakeside accommodations.

The final stage has us transfer to Zermatt, the quintessential mountain town nestled at the base of the iconic Matterhorn. Explore the dramatic landscapes of this heavily glaciated pocket of the Alps and each day return to the comforts of our fantastic hotel in its park-like setting beneath the magnificent Matterhorn.

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PHOTO: BLUEJAYPHOTO©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

ENGADINE, LAGO MAGGIORE, ZERMATT Discover the vast variety of hiking Switzerland has to offer !

EASY TO MODERATE HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: SILS MARIA

Travel independently to Sils Maria, Switzerland and meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner in our outstanding hotel in the heart of this tiny and quiet village. Note that the hikes on this trip are options only. The guide(s) will tailor each day to the interests and abilities of all individuals in the group.

DAY2: SILS MARIA LOOP HIKE Cross to the far side of the Silsersee and ascend to the tiny hamlets of Grevasalvas (where the movie Heidi was filmed) and Blaunca before descending to Maloja. Enjoy a lakeshore ramble back to Sils. Or summit the Piz Lunghin for those seeking a bigger day. Distance: up to 7 miles. Elevation gain: 1100 ft. (Harder options available.)

DAY 3: VAL FEX LOOP HIKE Explore the mystical Val Fex and Muott’Ota, a charming valley that descends into downtown Sils. Hikes in this itinerary are options only. The guides will tailor each day to the interests and abilities of all individuals in the group. Distance: up to 7 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: up to 2200 ft.

DAY 4: SILS MARIA TO LOCARNO Transfer through Italy and Menaggio on the shores of the Lago di Como, and back into Switzerland and the ancient canton of Ticino. Arrive in Locarno on the shores of Lake Maggiore. This ancient town boasts a vibrant lakeside vibe with colorful cafes and pubs. Intoxicating trails connect antique hill villages offering stunning glimpses into life in times long past. A short afternoon hike will be offered. Distance: 4 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 600 ft.

DAY 5: VAL VERZASCA GORGE HIKE Visit the serpentine, water-worn granite valley of the Verzasca. The waters of the river that snake down this glistening valley are alternately emerald green and ultramarine. It is truly visually stunning. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain 1200 ft.

(Harder options are available.)

DAY 6: CIMETTA LOOP HIKE

Ascend by funicular, cable car and chairlift to the Cimetta, where a delightful ridge walk offers endless views in all directions. Finish in the charming village of Mergoscia for a transfer back to Locarno. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1100/1300 ft. (Easier and harder options are available.)

DAY 7: LOCARNO TO ZERMATT What a fun transfer day! Today’s journey through the Vallemaggia to the Italian border town, Domodossola, is truly memorable. In the afternoon, take a funicular up to Sunnega and explore the authentic Walser houses of Findeln. Distance: 4 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 600/1000 ft.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

June 30 – July 9 Price: $6,150 (single +$660) Minimum of four people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

June – September Price: $7,250 (single +$660)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 9 nights, 10 days • 3 superior four star hotels.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Zurich

DAY 8: GORNERGRAT & MONTE ROSA (GORNER) GLACIER Start with the spectacular cograil crawl up to the Gornergrat for the most inspiring views of the Alps. Our outing takes us to the base of the mighty Monte Rosa glacier.

Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1000 ft.

PHOTOS: RVOGELSP©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM, RYDERWALKERGUIDE©

DAY 9: ZMUTT/HÖRNLI HUT Wander to the remote hamlet of Zmutt or hike to the legendary Hörnli Hut at the base of the most popular route up the Matterhorn (for those in need of a touch more adrenaline). Both challenging and gentle options are offered to explore the vast terrain on the flanks of the north face of the Matterhorn. Distance: up to 12 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 1400–3300 ft.

DAY 10: DEPART

SWITZERLAND Sils Maria

Silsersee

Silvaplana See

Cimetta

Zermatt

Piz Lunghin

Locarno Matterhorn

Lago Maggiore

ITALY

*All ground transportation between Sils Maria and Zermatt included during tour. Luggage transfer daily.

NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

23

“Rogan was an excellent guide.

He was personable, knowledgeable and appropriately flexible in his approach to leading the trip.”

—William L.

EUROPE

ENGLAND

O

ne of the most treasured and visited destinations in the United Kingdom, the Cotswolds, is famous for its gently sloping green hills and ancient, picture-perfect towns and villages. Over the course of our 11-day hiking tour we visit old castles, quaint English gardens, country estates, beautiful historic cities, and spa towns bursting with culture. We begin in charming Broadway and end in Bath, with

TRIP RATINGS

Easy to moderate with one day up to 7 miles with an ascent of 1,500 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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its Roman baths and beautiful Royal Crescent being the highlight.

Hike through the lush, rolling, green countryside. Enjoy cream teas in charming hidden cafes. Visit Neolithic burial mounds and old hilltop fortifications. Eat in many a lovely English pub. Wander quiet cobbled streets and explore areas off the tourist trail that only your guide could reveal to you.

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PHOTO: KOCHATORNRANAPAT©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

THE COTSWOLDS Revel in the beauty and quintessential charm of Southwest England.

EASY TO MODERATE HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: BROADWAY Travel independently to Broadway and meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner. Overnight in a lovely, classic English hotel.

DAY 2: BROADWAY Today we explore Chipping Campden and its surroundings, eat delicious local food, and then in the afternoon hike to the Broadway Tower, a famous 18th century folly with views over 16 counties, before returning to the hotel. Distance: 3 miles.

DAY 3: BROADWAY – STANTON, SNOWSHILL, AND EDGE LOOP WALK Our loop hike today has us strolling through two of the most picturesque villages, over hilltops, down valleys and through woodlands. We end with a visit to Snowshill Manor, a National Trust manor house and garadens. Distance: 6 miles.

DAY 4: BROADWAY TO GREAT MALVERN We embark on the Winchcombe and Belas Knap loop hike today and explore more of the Natural Trail with its history and captivating scenery. We conclude our hike at Sudeley Castle and visit the famous gardens before driving west to the Malvern Hills and our beautiful hotel in Great Malvern. Distance: 4 miles.

DAY 5: GREAT MALVERN – MALVERN HILLS END-TO-END HIKE

This ridge walk is the longest of our tour and enjoys amazing rural views.

Worcestershire Beacon, at 1395 ft. above sea level, marks the highest point on this route, and a line drawn due east from it won’t hit a higher point until the Ural Mountains in Russia. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain: 1500 ft.

DAY 6: GREAT MALVERN TO PAINSWICK We start the day with a quick stop at the Morgan Motor Company Ltd and then onto Blenheim Palace, one of only two UNESCO sites in The Cotswolds (Bath is the other site) and the home and birthplace of the enigmatic Winston Churchill. Distance: 2 miles.

DAY 7: PAINSWICK – CRANHAM COOPERS AND BEECHWOODS LOOP WALK Our journey starts at the famed Stroud Farmer’s Market followed by our second circular walk, a 4-mile route through Buckholt Wood’s beech woodlands, and leads us Cooper’s Hill, renowned for the Glouchestershire Cheese Rolling competition.

Along the route we will explore the Great Witcomve Roman Villa. Distance: 4 miles.

DAY 8: PAINSWICK – WESTONBIRT ARBORETUM Our outing today is to Westonbirt Arboretum, home to one of the most treasured and significant plant collections, with 15,000 specimens, and 2,500 tree species of trees from around the world. A stop at Winstone’s Cotswolds Ice Cream follows.

Distance: 3 miles.

DAY 9: PAINSWICK TO BATH Today we begin with a visit to Highgrove and its gardens, the home of King Charles III. After a visit to Beechen Cliff we embark on our Stonehenge tour. Distance: 5 miles.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

May 5 – 15 Price: $5,200 (single +$900) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED* May – October $6,500 (single +$900)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 10 nights, 11 days • 10 nights in superior 3 and 4-star hotels. .

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: London, England

DAY 10: BATH

Enjoy a walking tour of Bath this morning before embarking on our last walk, Journey’s End: The Walk into Bath, and experience a true sense of pilgrimage ending at Bath Abby, the southern end of the Cotswolds Way. Distance: 5 miles.

PHOTOS: MTROMMER©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM,GARY718©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

DAY 11: DEPART

Great Malvern

Painswick

Bath

ENGLAND

Broadway

Stroud

*All ground transportation between Broadway and Bath included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. Admission to all sightseeing tours. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make the route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

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“I particularly enjoyed the coastal waves splashing against the rugged cliffs, the histories of the castles, and the mountain summits with their breathtaking vistas.”

—Guide, Rogan O’H.

EUROPE

WALES

W

elcome to Wales, a small country within the United Kingdom, known for its stunning coastline, inspiring National Parks, lovely countryside, Welsh language, Celtic roots and over 600 castles, the most of any country per square mile on Earth. Our tour begins in the stunning Gower Peninsula, the U.K.’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, designated in 1956. Over the course of our tour, we walk miles of

TRIP RATINGS

Easy to moderate with one day up to 7 miles with negligible ascent and descent.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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dramatic windswept coastline, visit magical castles, gardens and delightful coastal towns. Explore national nature reserves and parks, summit some of Wales’ most iconic mountains and stay in gorgeous luxury hotels, tucked away beside hidden lakes or in lush parkland. The tour ends in the Welsh capital of Cardiff, famous for its castle located in the very center of the city, and with easy transport links back to London.

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PHOTO: ROY GILHAM©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

DISCOVER THE COUNTRYSIDE, CASTLES AND COASTLINE A lovely mix of empowering landscapes, scenic beaches, and jagged cliffs.

EASY TO MODERATE HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: PENMAEN

Transfer from Paddington Train station to Swansea, then taxi to Penmaen. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: THE GOWER

Today’s tour begins with a stunning 5-mile loop hike through the beautiful parklands, to the South Wales coastline with a visit to the lovely Three Cliffs Bay. We explore fascinating bone caves, and the 12th Century ruins of Pennard Castle. A truly delightful day of exploring the Gower, the U.K.’s first AONB (area of outstanding beauty), designated in 1956.Distance: 5 miles.

DAY 3: THE GOWER TO ST. DAVIDS We head to the coast again today for another 5-mile loop hike, which hugs the evocative Pembrokeshire National Park coastline. Along route we visit the 13th Century St. Govan’s Chapel, a tiny chapel, steeped in myths and legends. A brief ramble around one of Wales’ wonderful harbor towns, Tenby, completes the day.

Distance: 5 miles.

DAY 4: ST. DAVIDS – SKOMER ISLAND A short drive along the coast delivers us to Martins Haven where we catch a ferry to Skomer Island for a day of exploring the National Nature Reserve, famous for its puffins, but boasting an array of wildlife including dolphins, razorbills and much more. Distance: 3 miles.

DAY 5: ST. DAVIDS TO PORTMEIRION Our 3-mile loop takes us along Caerfai Beach to St. Non’s Chapel, the reputed birthplace of Wales’ patron saint, St. David. Return to St. Davids for a visit to the medieval ruins of St. Davids Bishop’s Palace and the fabulous St. Davids Cathedral.

Next, we head to North Wales for four days to explore the majestic mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. Distance: 3 miles.

DAY 6: PORTMEIRION – MT. SNOWDON AND DOLBADARN CASTLE Today we take the Traditional Diesel Service train to the summit of Wales’ highest peak, Yr Wyddfa (Mt. Snowdon 3,560 ft.), visit the ruins of Dolbadarn Castle, and explore Portmeirion. Distance: 2 miles.

DAY 7: PORTMEIRION – CONWAY CASTLE AND BODNANT GARDENS The imposing Conwy Castle is our first stop today. Built by Edward I in the 1280s as a statement of intent towards the conquering of the Welsh. Next, we visit Bodnant Gardens, founded in 1874, and boasting 80 acres of gardens. Distance: 2 miles. .

DAY 8: CADAIR IDRIS AND HARLECH CASTLE

We head south towards Cadair Idris, one of Wales’ most brooding and mystical mountains, for what promises to be our hardest, but most rewarding hike of the trip followed by a visit to Harlech Castle.

Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2384 ft.

DAY 9: PORTMEIRION TO CARDIFF Depart to the Welsh Capital of Cardiff, or Caerdydd, our final stop. Along route we visit Big Pit National Coal Museum for an underground tour of the old coal mine. At a depth of 300 ft. Distance: 1 mile.

DAY 10: CARDIFF – SIGHTSEEING Visit St. Fagans National Museum of History, Wales, followed by a visit to Cardiff Castle, with its 11th Century Keep. Browse Cardiff’s many food markets, parks, galleries, and museums. Distance: 2 miles.

DAY 11: DEPART

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

June 20 – 30 Price: $5,850 (single +$800) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED* March – October $7,050 (single +$800)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 10 nights, 11 days • All nights are in comfortable hotels and charming bed and breakfasts.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: London, England

PHOTOS: CERI BREEZE ©-ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM, PETER BARBER ©-ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM

Mt. Snowdon

WALES

Portmeirion

St. Davids Skomer Island St. Martins Haven

Penmaen

Cardiff

*All ground transportation between Penmaen and Cardiff included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. Admission to all tours and ferry transfers included. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

27

“We thoroughly enjoyed the hikes and gardens.

Our guide, Rogan, being a foodie kept us feeling like this was a gourmet trip.”

– Charles M.

EUROPE

CORNWALL ENGLAND

W

elcome to Cornwall, Great Britain’s most southwesterly county.

Surrounded on all sides by the lashings of the Atlantic Ocean and the warming currents of the Gulf Stream, this peninsula boasts over 400 miles of dramatic cliff-edged coastline complete with lush palm trees, quaint, tucked away fishing villages, pristine beaches and water that reflects the most vibrant turquoise color that you might mistake it

TRIP RATINGS

Easy to moderate with one day up to 7 miles with negligible ascent and descent.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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for the Caribbean. Of the 1376 square miles that make up Cornwall, 25% is designated as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The county also boasts a booming gourmet food scene. Cornwall is uniquely famous for its Cornish pasties - traditionally filled with beef, potato, swede (turnip) and onion - its wide-ranging use of freshly caught fish, its ice cream and its delightful Cornish cream teas, a staple of British culture.

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PHOTO: NEILBUSSEY©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

EXPLORE THE CORNISH COASTAL PATH Discover England’s rugged southwest coastline and dramatic landscape.

EASY TO MODERATE HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: TINTAGEL

Transfer from Paddington Train station to Bodmin Parkway. Ryder-Walker provides a taxi to the hotel in Tintagel. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: TINTAGEL CASTLE Today begins with a short drive to Boscastle and a visit to the Museum of Witchcraft & Magic before our first Southwest Coastal Path hike. On our way­­back we stop at Tintagel Castle–inextricably linked with the legend of King Arthur. Distance: 6 miles.

DAY 3: TINTAGEL TO ST. AGNES We head to the coast for another stunning walk passing the ruins of the famous Wheal Coates tin mine. Lunch is at a quaint seaside cafe. Overnight in a charming coveside hotel in St. Agnes. Distance: 3 miles.

DAY 4: ST. AGNES TO MOUSEHOLE Heading south we make a quick stop at Cambourne Farmers Market before arriving at St. Michael’s Mount, a spectacular island cut off at high tide. We venture onto the island to explore the village, castle, and medieval church before driving to the pleasant fishing village of Mousehole, pronounced “Mowzel.” Distance: 2 miles.

DAY 5: LAND’S END HIKE Today, we’re off to Porthcurno Beach for the tour’s longest hike. Explore the famous Minack Theatre and Land’s End, the most westerly point in England. Ending in Sennen Cove, delight in a tasty ice cream or Cornish cream tea. Distance: 7 miles.

DAY 6: MOUSEHOLE TO LIZARD A coastal ramble to the picturesque Botallack Mine and Crown engine houses is followed by a visit to Geevor Tin Mine, a museum and heritage center. Continue on to our hotel in Lizard. Distance: 4 miles.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

June 4 – 14 Price: $5,350 (single +$900) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED* April – October $6,500 (single +$900)

DAY 7: LIZARD POINT HIKE Today’s loop hike passes Lizard Point Lighthouse, the most southerly point on the British mainland, and Kynance Cove, with its delightful hidden beach and cafe, before returning to the hotel. Distance: 5 miles.

†Price based on a group of four.

DAY 8: LIZARD TO MEVAGISSEY Today begins with a private tour of the Tregothnan Tea Plantation, then on to the Lost Gardens of Heligan, a botanical garden ranked amongst the best in the country.

Distance: 4 miles.

DETAILS

DAY 9: MEVAGISSEY TO PLYMOUTH, DEVON Today we visit the Eden Project, home to two large biomes which house plants from diverse climates and environments throughout the world. Distance: 3 miles.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

• 10 nights, 11 days • All nights are in comfortable hotels and charming bed and breakfasts.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: London, England

DAY 10: PLYMOUTH, DEVON Plymouth was Sir Francis Drake’s launchpad to the Americas. Today we visit The Mayflower Steps, where pilgrims left England in 1620, then ferry to Mt. Edgcumbe House & Country Park, featuring woodlands, coastal walks, and stunning views.

Distance: 2 miles Bocastle

DAY 11: DEPART

Tintagel Tintagel Castle

ENGLAND

PHOTOS: RYDERWALKERGUIDE©, MICHAELGLASS©-UNSPLASH.COM

Bodmin Moore

Eden Project

St. Agnes Tregothnan Tea Plantation

Plymouth Mt. Edgcumbe House The Mayflower Steps & Country Park

Mevagissey

St. Michael’s Mount Land’s End

Mousehole

Lizard Point

*All ground transportation between Tintagel and Plymouth included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. Admission to all tours and ferry transfers included. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

29

“We loved that the routes were flexible and adaptable to our group. Guides were knowledgeable, experienced and a pleasure to be around. It was a good amount of time for hiking — both each day and in total.”

– Maria K.

EUROPE

HEART OF AUSTRIA

B

rilliant blue lakes, lush meadowlands, and hundreds of limestone peaks with cascading glaciers are the hallmarks of our eight-day hiking tour through the Salzkammergut region of Salzburg.

Starting out from the historic town of Bad Goisern, we hike to a luxury fourstar estate surrounded by the dramatic walls of the Gosaukamm Mountains.

Climb into the rugged Dachstein Mountains, also a UNESCO World Heritage

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate terrain, hiking up to 10 miles with ascents up to 2,600 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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Site, and the Alps’ northernmost high limestone range. The finale of the hike leads us to the lakeside hamlet of Hallstatt, a pint-sized jewel of a village lying at the bottom of steep, wooded slopes on the fjord-like Hallstättersee. Spend two nights at our hotel in Hallstatt enjoying the best of two worlds — stunning mountain scenery and a fairytale village on one side, and delicious lakeside views with glacially carved waterways and steep cliffs on the other.

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PHOTO: PILAT666©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Visit the most beautiful lakeside village in Europe.

EASY TO MODERATE HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVE IN BAD GOISERN

Transfer independently to Bad Goisern. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: BAD GOISERN TO GOSAU Today we climb through mountain pastures and enchanting forests before cresting at Goisererhütte, with outstanding views of the distant Dachstein peaks and the Hallstättersee. Enjoy lunch at this small and cheerful establishment before hiking down through mossy forests to the village of Gosau. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2600/2675 ft.

DAY 3: GAMSFELD After a short transfer to Rußbach, we hike the Gamsfeld, famous for having the best preserved and varied fossil beds in the Alps. After a hearty and typical hut lunch, we return to Gosau. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1600/3500 ft.

DAY 4: GOSAUSEE Today’s hike takes us from our hotel to the end of the valley to explore the area around Gosausee, the most famous lake of the region. We circumnavigate the lake and stop for a delicious lakeside lunch, while enjoying views of the imposing Gosaukamm above. Return to Gosau. Distance: up to 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1500 ft.

DAY 5: GOSAU TO HALLSTATT After a short transfer, we hike beneath the famous Plassen and connect to Hallstatt, the most famous village in the area. Perched on the lake shore, Hallstatt is one of the Alps most interesting places, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Distance: up to 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1500/2900 ft. (without lift).

DAY 6: HOHER DACHSTEIN Use the Krippenstein cable car to access the high karst terrain below the Hoher Dachstein. This plateau is home to the largest caves in the Alps. Traverse the plateau to the Wiesberghaus on a superb trail with synoptic information stations.

Wiesberghaus offers great food and we highly recommend their homemade dumplings (Knödel). Return via the same route or descend to Hallstatt on foot.

Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2000 ft. Hike to Hallstatt: Elevation gain/ loss: 2000/4422 ft.

DAY 7: HALLSTATT TO BAD GOISERN On our last day we cross the Hallstättersee by ferry and hike along the eastern lakeshore on the Panoramaweg. If weather permits, we can take a dip in the lake and stop for Apfelstrudel before reaching Bad Goisern. This idyllic lakeside ramble circumnavigates the Hallstättersee and brings us back to Bad Goisern, the first village visited. We overnight in the same charming hotel. Distance: up to 8.5 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: none.

DAY 8: DEPART

Bad Goisern

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

September 13 – 20 Price: $5,250 (single +$600) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

Mid-June – September Price: $6,450 (single +$600)

†Price based on a group of four.

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Mid-June – September Price: $2,950 (single +$600)

DETAILS

• 7 nights, 8 days • 7 nights charming hotels and country inns.

• Guided: Breakfast and dinner daily • Self-Guided: Breakfast daily and dinner only in Gosau • Gateway: Salzburg or Munich

AUSTRIA

PHOTOS: SCSTOCK©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM, RYDERWALKERGUIDE©

Gosau

Hallstättersee

Hallstätt

Gosausee

Gosaukamm Mtns.

Wiesberghaus

Hallstättergletscher Hoher Dachstein

*All ground transportation beginning in Bad Goisern included during tour. Luggage transfers daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

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31

“The Horns of Alligin trek stands out as one of the most dramatic and epic hikes of my life, an experience truly marked by its astonishing scenery.”

– Guide, Rogan O’H

EUROPE

SCOTLAND

W

elcome to Scotland, a country boasting 800 diverse islands, a rugged coastline, thousands of hidden lochs, a captivatingly unique culture, imposing mountains looming stoically against the wilds of the infamous Scottish climate and vast stretches of uncharted trails.

Our tour starts in Callander, Loch Lomond, and the Trossachs National Park, located at the southern reaches of the Highlands. Over the course of our tour, we visit historical landmarks, castles and gardens, sample

TRIP RATINGS

Easy to moderate hiking up to 11.5 miles with ascents up to 3,900 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

COMFORT

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world famous whisky, sample delicious cuisines, meet locals, explore lovely villages hidden away from the world and stay in truly wonderful accommodations, not least our final stop at our hotel in Torridon.

Throughout the tour, we traverse countless miles of awe-inspiring mountains and precipitous glens, summit dramatic peaks and ramble through mossy forests, brave the elements and bask in the sunshine of undoubtedly one of the world’s most enchanting and evocative locations.

EFFORT

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PHOTO: BENNYMARTY©DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS A marvel for hikers, historians, horticulturists, and photographers.

EASY TO MODERATE HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: CALLANDER Arrive and transfer independently to Callander, where you meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: CALLANDER – BEN LOMOND SUMMIT Our tour begins with a memorable circular walk to the summit of Ben Lomond, one of Scotland’s most southerly Munro (a Scottish peak over 3,000 ft.). We hike along the adventurous Ptarmigan Ridge enjoying the 360-degree views before descending to Rowardennan. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3,200 ft.

DAY 3: CALLANDER – BEN LEDI SUMMIT A brief 10-minute transfer brings us to the base of Ben Ledi, where we climb to the 2,884 ft. summit. Afterward, we follow the northern descent to the valley, finishing our adventure with a leisurely stroll through a mossy forest along a cycle track, leading us back to Callander. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2600 ft.

DAY 4: CALLANDER TO STRONTIAN Begin the day with a visit to Doune Castle, renowned for its appearances in iconic productions like Monty Python, Outlander, and Game of Thrones. From there, we embark on a scenic drive deeper into the Highlands, with stops en route to uncover the secluded ruins of Finlarig Castle and the breathtaking Glen Coe valley, before reaching our hotel in Strontian. Distance: 1 mile.

DAY 5: STRONTIAN – SGÙRR DHÒMHNUILL SUMMIT Today’s adventure begins with a walk through the Ariundle Oakwoods, one of the most extensive and well-reserved oak woodlands in Scotland. From there we summit Sgùrr Dhòmhnuill, a dramatic 2,913 ft. peak with stunning panoramic views. Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3000 ft.

DAY 6: STRONTIAN TO SKYE Today we visit the iconic landmarks of Glenfinnan Monument, commemorating the Jacobite Uprisings of the 18th Century, and the famous arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, feature in the Harry Potter series. Next, we drive the scenic “Road to the Isles” before taking a ferry from Mallaig to reach the Isle of Skye. Distance: Distance: 1 mile.

DAY 7: SKY LOOP WALK On Skye, we start the day with a quick visit to the mythical Sligachan Old Bridge before moving on to the Glenbrittle Valley for a walk around Coire Lagan, one of the island’s less explored valleys. Tucked in by majestic peaks on three sides, this is truly an extraordinary place. The day ends with a whisky tour of the Talisker Distillery.

Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2000 ft.

DAY 8: SKYE TO TORRIDON

Today we visit Eilean Donan Castle, the most photographed castle in Scotland.

Next, we head north on a scenic route to Torridon. Along the way we visit the Attadale Gardens, renowned for its sculptures and rhododendrons. Distance: 2 miles.

DAY 9: TORRIDON – HORNS OF ALLIGIN Today’s adventure leads us on a traverse of the famous “Horns of Alligin,” a thrilling hike with awe-inspiring vistas. The ridge consists of two peaks, known as the Horns, named Sgùrr Thionail and Sgùrr a’ Bhealaich Dheirg. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/ loss: 3,900 ft.

DAY 10: TORRIDON – BEINN EIGHE Our final hike takes us to the summit of the Beinn Eighe Massif, treating us to panoramic views of the surrounding jagged peaks, verdant valleys, and pristine lochs.

Tonight, we come together to celebrate our unforgettable adventure with a special final dinner. Distance: 11.5 miles. Elevation gain/ loss: 3,700 ft.

DAY 11: DEPART

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

May 19 – 29 Price: $5,800 (single +$800) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED* March – October $7,000 (single +$800)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED Horns of Alligin

Beinn Eighe

DETAILS

Torridon

• 10 nights, 11 days • 10 nights charming inns, B&Bs, and superior 4-star hotels.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Glasgow, Scotland

Eilean Donan Castle

SCOTLAND

Sligachan Old Bridge

Skye

PHOTOS: RYDERWALKERGUIDE©

*All ground transportation between Callander and Trrridon included during tour. Luggage transfer daily (one bag per person).

NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make the route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

Strontian

Ben Ledi

Ben Lomond

Callander

RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

33

“We had such an epic experience and are very glad we did the trip with Ryder-Walker. We look forward to doing another trek in the future! ” – Nathan and Erin P.

EUROPE

ENGADINE TREK

O

ur inn-to-inn hiking tour covers the length of the Inn River Valley from Scuol, an ancient spa town just a stone’s throw from Austria, to Soglio, a historic hillside village on the Italian border. Staying in incredibly picturesque villages, and quaint inns, we pass from the gentler terrain of the Lower Engadine Valley to the rugged Upper Engadine, with its majestic,

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate hiking up to 12 miles with ascents up to 3,540 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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glaciated peaks. We finish in the Val Bregaglia, a wild and sparsely populated valley that boasts imposing granite spires and the rugged Sciora Mountains.

From pint-sized historic towns like Guarda and Zuoz, to well-appointed hot spots like Sils Maria and Pontresina, we lead you along ancient footpaths to the most beautiful mountains of the range.

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PHOTO: AGUSTAVOP©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Visit Switzerland’s best kept secret.

EASY TO MODERATE HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: SCUOL Transfer from Zurich by train to the ancient Roman spa village of Scuol. Relax in the curative thermal mineral baths before meeting your guides and group for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: SCUOL TO GUARDA Ride the Motta Naluns cable car and enjoy a level walk to a beautiful summer alp called Prui. Descend into the Val Tasna and enjoy a picnic surrounded by stunning larch pine and majestic peaks. Continue to the ancient hill town turned artist colony, Guarda. Distance: up to 12 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1300/2970 ft.

DAY 3: GUARDA LOOP HIKE A short train and van transfer takes us to the tiny whistle stop S-chanf. Enter the mysterious Val Trupchun as we climb deep into the only Swiss National Park. Our high point and picnic spot is a secluded and protected wildlife viewing station where we watch the majestic steinbock and fanciful chamois play. Return to S-chanf for a quick transfer back to Guarda. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1800 ft.

DAY 4: GUARDA TO PONTRESINA Climb to the Segantini hut and enjoy the finest views of the Engadine. Overnight in Pontresina, home of the 12th century mountain church, Santa Maria, adorned with frescoes dating from the 13th century. Distance: up to 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 1500/3300 ft.

DAY 5: PONTRESINA TO SILS MARIA

A moderately strenuous day through larch forests and high meadows provides a sensational opportunity to view the sparkling lakes of the Engadine. Have lunch at an alpine lake, the Hahnensee, followed by a spectacular lakeside walk to Sils Maria.

Overnight in a grand, old-world hotel. Distance: 10.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500 ft.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

June 20 – 27, Women’s Only Trek July 15 – 22 Price: $5,150 (single +$620) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

DAY 6: PIZ LUNGHIN

The most strenuous day of the trek is to the Piz Lunghin (summit optional).

The lake below the summit is one of the finest viewpoints of the steep terrain of the Bregaglia. Return to Sils and our memorable accommodations.

Distance: 8.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 3540/3400 ft.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

DAY 7: SILS TO SOGLIO Strike out on a rough- hewn Roman road; an ancient path connecting long- deserted farming hamlets of the Val Bregaglia. The magnificent granite spires of the Bregaglia tower all around as we wind our way into Italian-speaking Soglio, one of the most beautiful and well- preserved historic villages located anywhere in the Alps.

Distance: 7.25 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1170/2290 ft.

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

DAY 8: DEPART

Guarda

SWITZERLAND

Scuol

June – October Price: $6,400 (single +$620)

†Price based on a group of four.

June – October Price: $3,215 (single +$620)

DETAILS

• 7 nights, 8 days • 7 nights charming country inns and old-world hotels.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Zurich

PHOTOS: RYDER-WALKER GUIDES©, SEDMAK©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Piz Ot Las Trais Fluors St. Moritz Piz Lunghin

Soglio

Pontresina Piz Languard

Sils Maria Piz Bernina

ITALY

Piz Palü

*All ground transportation between Scuol and Soglio included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

35

“I enjoyed exploring the different Islands, and lovely hiking trails, with beautiful views. It was a great mix of culture and outdoor exploration.”

– Michelle J.

EUROPE

SICILY

F

rom across the aquamarine waves, their call can be heard for thousands of leagues. Ulysses surely wasn’t the first to hear their sound as he crossed the Adriatic, Aegean, and Tyrrhenian seas on his Odyssey, but he definitely was a notable visitor of the Aeolian Islands, home of the Sirens.

Tour highlights begin with our stay in Taormina, idyllically perched on a rocky promontory high above the sea, followed by a transfer to Lipari

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate hiking up to 8 miles with ascents up to 2,700 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

36 RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

where we hike to the top of Mote Guardia. Next we explore Santa Marina and hike to the top of the resident volcano. Panarea follows with another peak trek. Volcanoes are the reason people first came to the region, and the soil from their eruptions is why everything grows. Our final visit to a live volcano on the tiny island of Stromboli is as memorable as the breathtaking views, friendly people and outstanding cuisine.

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PHOTO: DALIU©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

THE AEOLIAN ISLANDS Seven islands with over 5000 years of history await you.

EASY TO MODERATE HIKING

ITINERARY CATANIA/TAORMINA

Arrive to Catania Airport and bus to Taormina. Settle into a truly superior and excellently appointed hotel. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner at the hotel.

DAY 1:

DAY 2: TAORMINA We meet our local historian this morning for a two-hour tour of the ancient Greek Theatre of Taormina and visit local environs. In the afternoon, we hike to the hilltop village of Castelmola, with splendid views of the Calabrian and Ionian coast topped

by Mount Etna. After lunch we visit the town’s citadel before returning to our hotel.

Distance: up to 4 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1000 ft.

DAY 3: TAORMINA TO LIPARI Today we hike to the top of Monte Guardia, the old outpost at the southern tip of the island. We hike by luxurious holiday villas built in classical Aeolian style on our way to the Cappero-Osservatorio (Volcano Observatory). After the summit we close the loop with a grand view of Lipari and its 16th-century citadel before heading to explore the town’s maritime atmosphere and rich heritage. Distance: 8 miles.

Elevation gain: 1300 ft.

DAY 4: LIPARI Today we enjoy a lovely coastal hike on Lipari beginning with a descent on a good trail towards the coast. Our beautiful trail brings us to one of the most famous viewpoints on Lipari, the Quattroocchi, or Four Eyes. Our afternoon hike follows a gorgeous valley as we make our way back to Lipari proper. Distance: 7 miles.

Elevation gain: 2700 ft.

DAY 5: LIPARI TO SANTA MARINA SALINA Today we head to the island of Santa Marina Salina, known for wine production and as the most fertile and green of all the Aeolian Islands. After bagging the peak of the resident volcano, we retire for the evening at an excellent hotel and enjoy sampling locally grown wines.. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain: 2000 ft.

DAY 6: SANTA MARINA SALINA TO PANAREA Off we go by ferry to the fashionable Panarea. Hike Punta del Corvo, one of the grandest treks in all the islands. This 421 m (1380 ft) peak is the tallest on the island, and its western flank slants sharply out of the sea, while the eastern side slopes more gently as it rises from the pebble beaches below. Overnight in Panarea.

Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain: 1500 ft.

DAY 7: PANAREA TO STROMBOLI After a short ferry transfer, we explore this magical island and in the early evening we depart on a guided hike of Stromboli’s active volcano at sunset. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1640 ft.

DAY 8: DEPART Independently transfer via ferry from Stromboli to Milazzo Port. Take a taxi or bus to your gateway.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

May 15 – 22 Price: $4,650 (single +$660) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

May – October Price: $6,080 (single +$660)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 7 nights, 8 days • 7 nights excellently appointed hotels.

• Breakfast and dinner daily on guided tours. Breakfast only on self-guided tours.

• Gateway: Catania or Palermo

Stromboli

PHOTOS:STANDRET ©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM, U;ISSE ©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM,

ITALY AEOLIAN ISLANDS

Panarea

Santa Marina Salina Lipari Vulcano *All ground and ferry transports between Taormina and Stromboli are included on guided tours. Luggage transfers from/to port/hotel. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

Milazzo

SICILY

Mt. Etna

Taormina RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

37

“The variety of hikes were as wonderful as the delicious cuisine. We thoroughly enjoyed our hotels and the festive atmosphere.”

– Lynnie G.

NORTH AMERICA

NEW MEXICO

N

ew Mexico lives up to its name, the “Land of Enchantment”, with its stunning desert vistas, high alpine peaks, charming adobe homes, thriving art communities and lots of chiles.

We begin in Santa Fe, exploring the piñon and juniper-laced trails and high alpine lakes, and wandering among the historic adobe buildings of the oldest state capital in the United States. Next we travel along the beautiful “High Road” to Taos with an overnight in the historic village of

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate hiking up to 10 miles with ascents up to 2,950 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

38 RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

Chimayo, known for its National Historic Landmark church El Santuario de Chimayó, and centuries-old weaving traditions.

Our final destination is the charming mountain town and artist colony of Taos, where we explore classic trails leading us deep into the Rio Grande Gorge, and we summit New Mexico’s loftiest peak, Wheeler Peak at 13,161 ft. A guided tour of the oldest intact dwelling in North America, the iconic Taos Pueblo, closes out this memorable trek.

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TERRAIN

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PHOTO: DEAN_FIKAR©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

LAND OF ENCHANTMENT, SANTA FE TO TAOS Experience Northern New Mexico and explore the majestic Southern Rocky Mountains.

EASY TO MODERATE HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: SANTA FE Travel independently to Santa Fe, the exuberant and historical capital of New Mexico.

Meet your guides and group at the hotel for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: ATALAYA MOUNTAIN Hiking Atalaya Mountain is a favorite amongst Santa Fe locals. The trail winds us through dry arroyos and piñon and juniper forest en route to the summit of Atalaya Mountain. Once on top, we enjoy the views down to Santa Fe, north to Apache Canyon and Glorieta Baldy Peak, and west to the Jemez Mountains. Distance: 7 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 1800 ft.

DAY 3: DECEPTION PEAK

Today we travel up canyon to the Santa Fe Ski Basin and trailhead for the Winsor Trail.

We head to the stunning overlook of Deception Peak, (12,310 ft.) following a trail of gentle switchbacks through pine and aspen groves. We gain a forested ridge line and continue a gradual ascent up Ravens Ridge until we reach the summit of Deception Peak. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2600 ft.

DAY 4: SANTA FE TO CHIMAYO We leave Santa Fe and head northwest to Diablo Canyon where hike through an arroyo leading us into the canyon, eventually to the Rio Grande. Another short drive takes us to Chimayo, a quaint and historic little town on the High Road to Taos. We tour the church and visit the Ortega Weaving Shop. Distance: 6.5 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 500 ft.

DAY 5: CHIMAYO TO TAOS We head north on the High Road to Taos stopping on the outskirts of town to hike the base of Taos Canyon and the Devisadero Loop trail. This moderate loop is located on the sunny side of Taos Canyon and winds its way through the low-growing piñon and juniper forest on the front side, and also through a more forested area of pines on the backside of the loop. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1100 ft.

DAY 6: WHEELER PEAK

Head to Taos Ski Valley to the highest point in New Mexico, Wheeler Peak, (13,161 ft.). It’s a gradual climb for the first couple of hours then we tackle the steep but well-built switchbacks to the ridge separating Wheeler Peak and Mount Walter.

Summit views are 360-degrees. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2950 ft.

DAY 7: SLIDE TRAIL AND PICURIS TRAIL The Slide Trail, an historic road known as Old 570, turned hiking trail leads down to the confluence of the Rio Grande and the Rio Pueblo. We then climb up and out of the canyon on the steeper Picuris Trail to the canyon rim where we loop back to the start.

Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 700 ft.

DAY 8: DEPART

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

October 2 – October 9 Price: $6,700 (single +$780) Minimum of four people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

June – October Price: $7,990 (single +$780)

†Price based on a group of four.

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

June – October Price: $4,615 (single +$780)

DETAILS

• 7 nights 8 days • 6 nights well-appointed superior hotels and 1 night in charming bed and breakfast.

• Breakfast and dinner daily on guided tour only.

• Gateway: Santa Fe, Albuquerque, New Mexico

COLORADO NEW MEXICO

NEW MEXICO USA

Taos

Toas Ski Valley

Chimayo

Sangre de Cristo Mountains

Puerto Nambe

Rio

PHOTOS: RYDERWALKERGUIDEFH©

G ra

nd

eR

i ve

r

Wheeler Peak

Nambe Lake

Santa Fe Ski Basin

Santa Fe

*All ground transportation between Santa Fe and Taos as well as luggage transfers included on guided trips only.

Self-guided must rent a car. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

39

“Niko, our guide, was fabulous and being fluent in the language gave us a cultural context we wouldn’t have had.

The Vamoos app was the best! We loved having all the information for each day in one place.”

– Dianne E. and Terry P.

EUROPE

MONTENEGRO & CROATIA

R

yder-Walker’s journey along the Dalmatian Coast is an incredible experience visiting the best of the two countries. Montenegro borders Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Albania, and this fascinating gem of a country beckons with dominating mountain ranges, sapphire colored beaches, deeply cut fjords, and breathtaking wilderness areas.

Croatia is a celebration of azure, cobalt, and indigo skies and waters

TRIP RATINGS

Moderately challenging hiking up to 10 miles with ascents up to 2,500 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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with immaculate beaches and bustling villages. On this trek we explore Montenegro’s world famous national park before continuing towards the coast where we experience both the liveliest coastal villages of Montenegro and Croatia while taking excursions out to various islands.

Highlights are a visit to the Vrmac peninsula to ascend towards one of the most iconic views of the Adriatic and Dalmatian Coast along with a stop in Dubrovnik.

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TERRAIN

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PHOTO: EMICRISTEA©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE ADRIATIC COAST Trek through sweeping mountain ranges, untamed forests, and cobalt blue waters.

EASY TO MODERATE HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: BUDVA, MONTENEGRO

Travel to Podgorica, Montenegro’s beautiful capital. Transfer to Budva by shuttle or taxi. Meet your guides and group at the hotel for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: NATIONAL PARK LOVĆEN Today we drive through Cetinje, a former capital of Montenegro, to Lovćen National Park. Our hike makes a loop with truly captivating views as we climb through the park. The trail leads up through beautiful limestone and into a cool pine forest before cresting out on a high plateau. We descend on a well-built, old Austrian road to the Bay of Kotor. Next we stop in Njeguši, a historical village. Overnight in Kotor.

Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain: 1300 ft.

DAY 3: BAY OF KOTOR Today we hike in the Vrmac peninsula up to the local summit for truly stunning views of the bay. The steep, limestone cliffs of Mt. Lovćen cover more than 4000 vertical feet before plunging into the narrow inlet of the glimmering Adriatic Sea. Here the 1000-foot-wide Strait of Verige connects the narrow coastal inlet of Kotor to an outer bay of Tivat, creating a perfect natural shelter. We take a boat ride back into Kotor. Distance: 6 to 8 miles. Elevation gain: 2100 ft.

DAY 4: KOTOR MONTENEGRO TO KORČULA CROATIA After a leisurely morning we leave Montenegro and venture into Croatia. It’s an easy, beautiful two-hour drive along the Adriatic coast with several border crossings. The two countries, once part of former Yugoslavia, are culturally very similar. There is time to visit the famous walled city of Dubrovnik before we embark of on a two-hour ferry to Korčula. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500 ft.

DAY 5: KORČULA AND PEAK OF SVETI ILIJA This medieval walled port town could not be more charismatic or filled with history.

Next, we take a short ferry to the Pelješac peninsula, famous for its vineyards. The village of Orebić sets us up for one of the best coastal hikes in Dalmatia. The hike takes in the summit of Sveti Ilija and its grand panorama before descending back to the village on ancient paths past churches, vineyards, and villas. Distance: 8 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 2500 ft.

DAY 6: ISLAND OF HVAR

More Island hopping today as we embark on a one-hour transfer by ferry to Hvar, Croatia’s island paradise. Today we explore Hvar’s interior, which hides abandoned hamlets, vineyards, and the lavender fields that the island is famous for. In the afternoon explore the 16th century Spanjola Fortress, overlooking the old Hvar Town. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1500 ft

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

May 27 – June 3 Price: $5,000 (single +$600) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

May – June, September – October Price: $5,570 (single +600)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 7 nights, 8 days • 7 nights charming inns and superior four-star hotels • Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Podgorica, Montenegro, arrival and Split Croatia, departure *Note: We recommend booking a ticket for the flight from Zürich to Podgorica on Montenegro Air.

DAY 7: ISLAND OF HVAR: SVETI NIKOLA A quick water-taxi brings us to the island’s southern part. Starting from a beautiful seaside village, we aim for Hvar’s highest summit, Sveti Nikola, which is roughly 2000 feet high. It is a scenic hike with views of the nearby islands. Following our hike, we enjoy a 50-minute ferry ride to Split. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2100 ft.

DAY 8: DEPART

PHOTOS: IVICA PAVICIC© -ISTOCKPHOTO.COM, RYDERWALKRGUIDE©

Split

CROATIA *All ground transportation and ferry transfers included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

Hvar Santa Fe Ski Basin Korčula

Dubrovnik Adriatic Sea

MONTENEGRO Kotor Budva

RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

41

“My Ryder-Walker trek on Sedona’s awe-inspiring trails was a transformative experience. The luxurious hotels, breathtaking vistas and expert guide turned a hike into a journey of a lifetime.”

– Ivy H.J.

NORTH AMERICA

SEDONA, ARIZONA TREK

S

edona, Arizona is a town with an established reputation for exquisite dining, inspired art galleries, and numerous outdoor activities.

Explore an enchanting desert landscape, hiking many backcountry trails that spiderweb throughout the region.

We’ll enjoy stunning views of sandstone arches, feel the cool breath of hidden canyon walls painted with desert varnish, and delight in the

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate hiking up to 8 miles with ascents up to 2,400 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

42 RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

sweet aroma of desert wildflowers warming along the banks of perennial streams. Some of the trails we follow see limited foot traffic while others lead to popular destinations that everyone should see once in a lifetime.

Our first three nights are at the lovely Los Abrigados Resort & Spa located in the center of Sedona. Our final three nights are spent at the Enchantment Resort, offering privacy and star-filled night skies.

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TERRAIN

2-3/4

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PHOTO:SEAN PAVONE©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Explore the heart of Red Rock Country.

EASY TO MODERATE HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVE IN SEDONA Transfer to Sedona and our well-appointed hotel. Sedona’s town center is lively with outdoor cafes, eclectic shops, art galleries and people from all over the world. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: SOLDIER’S PASS TO BRINS MESA Our goal for the first day’s outing is a stunning loop hike taking us north of town up and over Soldier’s Pass. Today we hike past Sedona’s Seven Sacred Pools with incredible views of the red rock canyons as well as Coffeepot Rock and Capitol Butte. We will return to our hotel by late afternoon for an evening on the town.

Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 900 ft.

DAY 3: WILSON MOUNTAIN TRAIL An absolute Sedona classic is on offer today, complete with an option to climb to the top of Wilson Mountain. After a quick shuttle into Oak Creek, our trail climbs through Ponderosa pine forest en route to the ‘first bench.’ A beautiful descent here passes Steamboat Rock and connects all the way back to Sedona itself. Distance: 8 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 2400 ft.

DAY 4: THE HANGOVER LOOP Our hike today gives us a little bit of everything and is the loop hike in Sedona not to be missed! The Hangover Trail begins a short distance from our hotel as we start our journey on the Munds Wagon Trail, a famous first-of-its-kind cattle trail from the late 1800s. Soon we are walking along and on the red rock formations that surround the Sedona Valley. This loop hike links up the very best single-track in Sedona and offers some of the best photography for the week. Get ready to test the friction between the rock and your shoes! Following our hike, we will move into the five-star Enchantment Resort for the remainder of our trip. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1500 ft.

DAY 5: BOYNTON SUBWAY AND THE MESCAL LOOP Directly from our front door, we will explore the lesser known and secret trail up to the Boynton Subway. Named for its narrow cylindrical walls, the Boynton Subway is an iconic red rock sandstone formation. The site of this narrow tunnel also offers structures and carvings from the Ancestral Puebloans who occupied this area of the Sonoran desert over 1,000 years ago. Following our short hike to the Subway, we will make our way along the trail network to hike around Mescal Mountain, another stunning red rock formation that you can see from our Resort Hotel.

Distance: 4 to 8 mile. Elevation gain/loss: 500/1000 ft.

DAY 6: BEAR MOUNTAIN Today we climb up Bear Mountain, a steep and rewarding summit hike near the Enchantment Resort. This hike will add a challenge to finish off our week as we climb steeply up through multiple layers of Sedona sandstone rock. The views are absolutely stunning of the surrounding valley as we spend our time at the top of Bear Mountain.

We will then descend back to the Enchantment Resort for an evening of relaxation and final group dinner. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2400 ft.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

May 17 – 23 October 11 – 17 Price: $6,750 (single +$830) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

April – May, September – October Price: $7,990 (single +$830)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 6 nights, 7 days • 3 nights superior hotel and 3 nights 4-star resort.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Flagstaff, Phoenix or Sedona.

DAY 7: DEPART

Boynton Subway

Flagstaff

Wilson Mtn. Mescal Mtn.

PHOTOS: BOTH PHOTOS: GREG MELAND©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Soldier’s Pass

Enchantment Resort Oak Creek Canyon

Los Abrigados Resort & Spa Bear Mtn.

SEDONA, ARIZONA

Hangover Trail

*All ground transportation in Sedona included during tour. Luggage transfers between hotels. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

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43

“ From the majestic Mont Blanc in Courmayeur to the idyllic village of Cogne in Gran Paradiso National Park, and the scenic trails around the Monte Rosa massif in Champoluc, you’ll experience hiking with a perfect blend of cultural richness and breathtaking landscapes. ” – Guide, Ken F.

EUROPE

HIGHLIGHTS OF ITALY

COURMAYEUR, COGNE, AND CHAMPOLUC

T

he Highlights of Italy Trek was designed to showcase three of our favorite regions in Italy, as well as provide exceptional hiking with a broad range of physical challenge. Courmayeur is located in Northwest Italy, bordering France and Switzerland, and sits directly beneath the imposing south face of Mont Blanc, arguably the most impressive aspect

TRIP RATINGS

Easy to moderate with one day up to 7 miles with an ascent of 1,900 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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of this peak. Cogne, one of the most beautiful villages in the Aosta Valley, is located in the heart of the Gran Paradiso National Park - Italy’s oldest national park. Our final destination is the charming village of Champoluc, where summer visitors experience countless hiking trails around the Monte Rosa massif while enjoying magical views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks.

4/4

TERRAIN

2 /-3/4 +

2 /-3/4 +

PHOTO:FONT83©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Experience true Italian authenticity in three regions offering stunning scenery.

EASY TO MODERATE HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: COURMAYEUR Independently transfer to Courmayeur. Overnight in a well-appointed four-star hotel not far from the pedestrian zone. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: CHÉCROUIT/MASION VILLE TO LA VISAILLE We take Courmayeur’s main tram to Plan Chécrouit, and ascend to a ridge directly opposite some of the most spectacular scenery in all of the Alps­of the Mont Blanc South Face (its most impressive side). Next we descend into the Val Veny, a verdant glacier-scoured valley below the French border. Wander gentle WW1 roads to La Visaille for our quick shuttle home. A panoramic start to say the least! Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1200/2000 ft.

DAY 3: SENTIERO BALCONE DELLA VAL FERRET The balcony path above the Val Ferret is the perfect complement to yesterday’s outing in Val Veny. Still staring up at Mont Blanc, we now get a full view of its most famous face–The Brenva. This Himalayan-scale wall of ice was the setting for many of mountaineering’s most significant developments over the course of generations.

Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain: 1800/2100 ft.

DAY 4: TRANSFER TO COGNE Cogne is approximately a 1-hour drive, first down the main valley, Val D’Aosta, and then climbing up to the edge of the Grand Paradiso National Park. The park was established by King Vittorio Emmanuel in the early 19th century. We have the option to enjoy a lovely circumnavigation on the floor of the beautiful Valnontey or a quick ascent to a nearby subsummit for those in need of more challenging terrain.

Distance and elevation gain/loss will vary.

DAY 5: LAGO DI LOIE LOOP HIKE Today’s loop hike in the Cogne area begins in the tiny hamlet of Lillaz and offers stunning views and ever-changing terrain as we hike to the cascading waterfall, “Cascade de Lillaz.” The Lago di Loie is a crystal-clear, emerald-green lake set against the backdrop of Mont Blanc. From here we continue to the upper ridge to complete a circumnavigation of the valley. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2100/3100 ft.

DAY 6: RIFUGIO VITTORIO SELLA This out and back trail explores the National Park and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, as well as views of the Grand Paradiso mountain. Start wandering along the floor of the Valnontey beside the river or enjoy a jump start by vehicle to the hamlet of Valnontey. An excellent, very broad path takes us into the Lauson Valley below the Petit and Grand Lauson. Enjoy a fabulous hut lunch at the Rifugio Vittorio Sella.

Distance: 6 to 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 3000 ft.

DAY 7: COGNE TO CHAMPOLUC Transfer to Champoluc and spend the afternoon hiking above the village. We can take an easygoing loop hike to the Cappella Sarteur or a harder option such as the Mezzalama hut is also available. Champoluc is a startlingly beautiful and elegant Aostan mountain village below the magnificent flanks of the Breithorn and Lyskamm.

Distance and elevation gain/loss will vary.

DAY 9: CREST/COL PINTER After a quick transfer with the Crest cable car, we spend our last day on an epic climb to the Col Pinter. An absolute highlight will be the views all the way back to Monte Bianco! The Lago Pinter is a wonderful lunch spot near the pass to Gressoney.

With the addition of a new cable car stage to Ostafa, this outing can be as strenuous or gentle as you wish. Distance: 9 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 3300 ft.

DAY 10: DEPART

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

June 19 – 28 Price: $5,150 (single +$620) Minimum of four people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

Mid-June – Mid September $6,160 (single +$620)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 9 nights 10 days • 9 nights superior, 4-star hotels • Breakfast and dinner daily • Gateway: Geneva

SWITZERLAND

FRANCE

Mont Blanc

Val Veny PHOTOS: UEUAPHOTO©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

DAY 8: ALPI DI VERRA AND LAGO BLU Today we experience an excellent loop out of the village of St. Jacques, the highest in the valley. A remarkably charismatic hamlet, St. Jacques is not to be missed! We spend the day under the broad flanks of the Breithorn (the peak that towers above Zermatt, Switzerland, on the opposite side of the ridge). The Lago Blu is a charming byproduct of glacial advances of the early 19th century when the ice was exceptionally active. It now even boasts gentle white sand beaches. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2700 ft.

Gran Paradiso

Cogne

Val Ferret Courmayeur Aosta

Champoluc

ITALY *All ground transportation between Courmayeur and Champoluc included during tour. Luggage transfer included. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make the route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

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45

“I loved the stone villages of the Zagori region and when we got up into the remote mountain areas of Mikro Papigo.

I also love that we were in places with no American tourists where few people spoke English. It felt really remote.”

– Cheryl F.

EUROPE

NORTHERN GREECE

T

he rolling crags of the Zagori region of the Epirus Mountains are dotted with Byzantine, Ottoman, and Medieval ruins. Lush foliage obscures ancient roads and gorgeous arched bridges built in the early 1800s, while dolomite spires rise above the canopy. The Epirus Mountains run towards the Aegean Sea from Western Macedonia. The

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate terrain, hiking up to 10 miles with ascents up to 3,500 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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wilds of Northern Greece are the perfect place for your next escape into nature. They are full of ancient history, lively modern Greek culture, and a network of captivating wilderness trails. Ryder-Walker’s Northern Greece Trek takes you through pastoral beauty and preserved historic cities to explore Greece’s Epirus Mountains.

4/4

TERRAIN

2+/-3/4

2+/4

PHOTO: :IHOR_TAILWIND©, ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

AEGEAN SEA AND EPIRUS MOUNTAINS A land of enchantment, where every step is a journey into the distant past.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: THESSALONIKI

Travel independently to Thessaloniki, co-capital of Greece and the second largest city in the country. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: THESSALONIKI TO METEORA

Exploring Thessaloniki with a local guide, we tour the most important city monuments—this is a great introduction to the history of the country. After the city tour, we embark on a 2.5-hour drive along the coast and under Mount Olympus.

Our destination is the picturesque village of Kastraki located at the foot of the Meteora complexes. Distance: 4 miles. Elevation gain: 500 ft.

DAY 3: METEORA HIKE (UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE) Today’s hike begins on the ancient footpaths among the mysterious and uniquely shaped mighty pillars of Meteora. We visit one of the cliff’s hanging monasteries—a place of pilgrimage and orthodox spiritual life for the past 10 centuries. In the afternoon, we depart on a 1.25-hour transfer to the alpine town of Metsovo.

Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1500 ft.

DAY 4: NORTHERN PINDUS NATIONAL PARK Metsovo is Greece’s only true mountain town. Our hike starts from a high plateau above the town, crossing over pastures and wandering through the forest up to a local summit for spectacular views of the snowy mountain peaks of North Pindus. We follow the rim of the forest on the newly built Ursu (bear) trail before we make our way back into the town, where we make a stop at the Katogi Averoff museum and winery, one of Greece’s most celebrated local vineyards. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain: 2000 ft.

DAY 5: ZAGORI (EPIRUS REGION) Following a scenic drive, we arrive to the remote, mountainous region of Zagori, home of the UNESCO-protected Vikos Gorge, known to be the deepest canyon in the world. Today’s gentle “Seven Bridges” hike starts in the village of Dilofo and has us following old stone footpaths and crossing arching stone bridges above mountain streams and rivers connecting to the tranquil villages of Kipi, Koukouli, and Vitsa. We overnight in Vitsa.Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1800 ft.

DAY 9: IOÁNNINA TO THESSALONIKI On our way back to Thessaloniki, we first visit the vibrant lake town of Ioánnina, the cultural and economic capitol of Epirus.

Continuing, we stop for a tour at the magical archaeological site of Vergina, set in the vast peach fields at the foot of Mount Olympus. This historic site is known for the discovery of the Royal Tombs where the father of Alexander the Great, King Philip II of Macedon, was laid to rest. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We celebrate our final night in Thessaloniki.

DAY 10: DEPART

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

May 3 – 12 Price: $6,400 (single +$730)

DAY 6: VILLAGES OF ZAGORI AND BELOI VIEWPOINT

After a short drive, we hike up to the remote, picturesque village of Varadeto, the highest of the Zagori villages at 4500 feet. In a 1000 ft ascent, the staircase of Varadeto connects two villages through a series of narrow switchbacks. Our hike continues through upper grasslands to the viewpoint of Beloi, perched on a rocky cliff revealing stunning views of the nearly 3000 feet of vertical cliffs above the Vikos Gorge. Return to Vitsa. A longer option is available. Distance: 5 - 10 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 1500 - 3000 ft.

Minimum of four people required to run this tour.

DAY 7: VIKOS GORGE HIKE The gorge of Vikos is one of the most impressive landforms in Europe. We begin with a descent into the depths of the gorge on a spiral staircase. After reaching the riverbed we follow a stream to where it joins the Vodoimatis River. A short, strenuous climb brings us to the hamlet of Vikos for awe-inspiring 360-degree views. A quick transfer takes us to the tiny village of Mikró Pápigo. Distance: 9 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 1500 ft.

• 9 nights, 10 days • 9 nights in superior hotels and inns • Breakfast and dinner daily • Gateway: Thessaloniki

Papigko

Zagori Villages PHOTO: IGABRIELA©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

DAY 8: ASTRAKA TOWERS AND PÁPIGO VILLAGES

Today we explore the tranquil surrounding of the Pápigo villages with both shorter and longer options. For a longer day, we head up to the mountain hut, set on the shoulder of the Astraka towers. After a rest, we descend the back valley to Dragon Lake. For a more modest route, we hike to a popular viewpoint and then tour around the Pápigo villages.

Return to Mikró Pápigo. Distance: 5 - 10 miles.

Elevation gain/loss 1000 - 3500 ft.

Ioannina

Vitsa

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

May – October Price: $7,500 (single +$730)

†Price based on a group of four.

DETAILS

NORTHERN GREECE

Astraka

Vergina Thessaloniki Metsovo Meteora

*Taxi transport starting and ending in Thessaloniki from day 2 through day 9 included. Guided tours and tickets to museums included. Luggage transfers all nights. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change.

Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

47

“We loved the mountains and scenery, the food, not having to worry about any of the logistics aside from getting there, being with experienced guides, and the group experience.”

– Mikhal B.

EUROPE

ITALIAN DOLOMITES TREK

N

ourish yourself with the pleasures of northern Italy. The Dolomites are culturally diverse, and this trip visits the German speaking Tyrolean villages of the Val Gardena, the Ladin speaking center of Corvara in the Alta Badia Valley, and the chic Italian speaking center of Cortina d’Ampezzo, a long-time destination for members of the jet-set crowd.

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate terrain, hiking up to 9 miles with ascents up to 3,100 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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Visit Völs Am Schlern, a cobblestoned village beneath the Sciliar. Climb onto the Alpe di Siusi, with views that extend across the Ortler, Stubaier and Zillertaler Alps of Austria. Spend one night in an upscale rifugio above tree line. Hike through the Rosengarten, Sassolungo, Puez and Tofane ranges; the most striking and vertical-looking mountains in the Dolomites.

4/4

TERRAIN

3/4

2+/4

PHOTO: :SIMONDANNHAUER©, ISTOCK.PHOTO.COM

Nourish yourself with the pleasures of Northern Italy.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: VÖLS

Travel independently by rail to Bolzano. Ryder-Walker provides a taxi transfer to Völs. Overnight in a restored fourteenth century inn. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: VÖLS Today we embark on a gentle warm-up hike from Völs through Tuffalm to Hofer Alpl, a picturesque farm house turned restaurant. Enjoy views of the Sciliar before looping back to Völs. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain: 1750 ft.

DAY 3: VÖLS TO RIFUGIO ALPE DI TIRES Today’s hike begins in the Alpe di Siusi, the largest meadow, or alp, in the Alps.

Views extend to the Austrian Alps to the north and to the region’s dominant peaks, the Sassopiatto, Sassolungo and today’s objective, the Sciliar. Have lunch at the Rifugio Bolzano, a quintessential Tyrolean hut / restaurant at 8,059 feet. Traverse to the Rifugio Alpe di Tires. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2600/1300 ft. (With gondola and lift.)

DAY 4: RIFUGIO ALPE DI TIRES TO SËLVA Hike on the south side of the Sassopiatto on a contouring trail with great views of the Val di Fiemme. Descend to the Passo Sella for transport to the village of Sëlva in Gardena and our welcoming three-star inn. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain: 3000 ft.

DAY 5: SËLVA TO CORVARA Ascending the lovely Val Lunga, a pristine glacial valley surrounded by towering limestone walls, we climb through larch and stone pine toward the Rifugio Puez.

Have lunch at the hut then traverse to a dramatic pass before descending to the village of Corvara in the Alta Badia Valley. Overnight in a superior four star inn.

Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3100/3300 ft.

DAY 6: VALPAROLA We begin with an ascent to a ridge separating the Puez and Sella groups and the Marmolada, the highest peak in the Dolomites at 10,692 feet to the west, and the Tofane and Della Croce groups to the east. The views are continually engaging on our long traverse to the dramatically situated Rifugio Valparola, where our van awaits us to return to Corvara. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2700/2350 ft.

DAY 7: CORVARA TO CORTINA Hike into a world of rock; the heart of the Tofane Range. Ascend gradually to a striking vantage point before descending to the beautifully situated Rifugio Dibona.

Transfer to the alpine center of Cortina d’Ampezzo and the comforts of a four-star hotel. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 200/2400 ft.

DAY 8: DEPART

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

June 11 – 18 August 25 – September 1 Price: $5,750 (single +$800) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

Mid June – Mid September Price: $6,550 (single +$800)

†Price based on a group of four.

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Mid June – Mid September Price: $3,750 (single +$800)

DETAILS

• 7 nights, 8 days • 6 nights first-class hotels and charming country inns plus 1 night comfortable rifugio** • Breakfast and dinner daily. (Self guided tours – dinners not included in Cortina.)

• Gateway: Venice

ITALY Tofane

Sëlva Corvara

Langkofel

PHOTOS: RYDERWALKERGUIDES©

Völs

Schlern

Piz Boè

Rifugio Alpe di Tires

Cortina Cinque Torri

Rosengartengruppe

*Taxi transport between Bolzano and Völs upon arrival included. Luggage transfer all nights except at mountain hut.

NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities. ** Hut has shared toilets in the hall and some private rooms with showers. If full then there are shared bunk rooms.

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49

“Everything worked perfectly. We had a memorable arrival to the Steinernes Hütt’l with the dramatic scenery coming out of the foggy peaks with the lake below. Simply delicious food and good company. Thanks for makeing this a fabulous, memorable week for me and my son!”

– Andrew B.

EUROPE

HIGH PEAKS OF BAVARIA AND TYROL

O

ur journey begins in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Directly behind town sits the massive Zugspitze mountain. As part of the Wetterstein mountain range, the Zugspitze is the highest of the peaks that define the border between Germany and Austria.

Our hike makes a complete tour around this stunning range, both

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate terrain, hiking up to 12 miles with ascents up to 3,050 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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starting and finishing in Garmisch. During our journey, we drop into Tyrol, Austria for a few days, then return to Bavaria.

Our accommodations have been carefully selected, focusing on exceptional comfort, food, and service. We can anticipate outstanding hearty regional cuisine, featuring “farm to fork” freshness in which the locals pride themselves.

3 /4 +

TERRAIN

3/4

2 /4 +

PHOTO: MTHALER©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Germany and Austria’s rugged mountains, deep blue lakes, and picture-perfect scenes.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN

Travel independently to Munich and then take the train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Overnight in a classic Bavarian hotel. Meet your guides and group at the hotel for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN TO EHRWALD We take the classic Zugspitzbahn train from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to the Eibsee lake, at the foot of the Zugspitze. From this famous scenic lake, we hike over the border into Austria, along the dramatic northwest face of the Zugspitze. We make a pleasant stop for lunch at the Hochthörle Hütte before we descend into Ehrwald.

Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2650/2600 ft.

DAY 3: MIEMINGER KETTE HIKE Today features a dramatic trek into the Mieminger Kette, the mountain range high above the Inn River Valley. We begin our hike in the Ehrwalder Alm (meadow) above town, before ascending the Ganghofersteig Trail around Taja Peak. This dramatic range features the spire-like limestone peaks such the iconic Sonnenspitze.

Distance: 9.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2700 ft.

DAY 4: EHRWALD TO WEIDACH Leaving Ehrwald, we ascend to a high traversing trail along the southern side of the Wetterstein range, with amazing views over the Leutasch Valley far below. This trail winds along the rocky southern wall of the Wetterstein Range, paralleling the German/Austrian border along the ridge. We overnight in the charming village of Weidach. Distance: 12 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2900/4050 ft.

DAY 5: WEIDACH TO REINDLAU We leave the valley floor heading uphill to the north towards Scharnitzjoch (pass), high above the Leutasch Valley. The views are simply stunning of Germany, Austria, and into Italy to the south. After a picnic lunch atop the pass, we descend into the hamlet of Reindlau. Distance: 8.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3050/3300 ft.

DAY 6: THE KARWENDELSPITZE AND MITTENWALD Today we return from Austria into Germany, and begin by ascending the north side of the dramatic Karwendelspitze massif high above the idyllic town of Mittenwald (“Middle of the Forest”). After a morning filled with stunning views, we pause for a delicious repast at the Dammkar Hut, perched on the north flank of the massif. We continue the “Rundweg” round trip back into the valley and our hotel in Mittenwald.

Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2700 ft.

DAY 7: MITTENWALD TO GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN A short transfer from Mittenwald takes us to the Ferchensee, where we begin our final traverse north of the dramatic Wettersteinwand (Wetterstein Wall). After a gourmet picnic lunch, we begin our final descent into the famous Partnachklamm (Partnach River Gorge), which leads directly to Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Tonight we celebrate our hiking tour around the entire Zugspitze massif. Distance: 9.5 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 600/2150 ft.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

September 5 – 12 Price: $5,100 (single +$560) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

June – September Price: $6,265 (single +$560)

†Price based on a group of four.

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

June – September Price: $2,600 (single +$560)

DETAILS

• 7 nights 8 days • 7 nights charming inns and local boutique hotels.

• Breakfast daily, dinner all nights except on self-guided tours in Mittenwald.

• Gateway: Munich, Germany

DAY 8: DEPART

Garmisch-Partenkirchen

PHOTOS: RYDER-WALKER©,TOPICS©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

GERMANY

Mittenwald

Eibsee

Zugspitze

Reindlau Ehrwald

Weidach

AUSTRIA *All ground transportation beginning and ending in Garmisch-Partenkirtchen included during guided tour. Luggage transfers daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

51

“At times we felt like we were back in Switzerland.

The scenery was gorgeous, the fall colors spectacular, the weather cooperative. Given the location of the towns and the hikes, there is absolutely no way we could have done this without guides and support.”

– Susan W.

NORTH AMERICA

ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGH LIFE

S

now capped peaks, expansive alpine meadows, tumbling waterfalls, golden aspen trees and charming hotels beckon you to explore the Maroon Bells, Elk Range, and San Juan Mountains of Southwestern Colorado.

The Rocky Mountain High Life trek starts in the cosmopolitan town of Aspen and continues across the Maroon Bells to Gothic, Crested Butte, and into Ouray, home to a variety of world-famous hot spring pools and

TRIP RATINGS

Challenging hiking up to 10 miles with ascents up to 3,265 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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a backdrop of gorgeous scenery that earned Ouray the title, “The Little Switzerland of America.” Our trek ends in Telluride, one of the most beautiful towns in the Rocky Mountains and home to Ryder-Walker Alpine Adventures.

Along this trek, enjoy endless views across the Continental Divide as we ascend Independence Pass (elevation 12,096 feet). Hike beneath the imposing, snowcapped faces of Mount Sneffels and Mendota, and enjoy views of the iconic 14ers – Mt. Wilson, El Diente, and Wilson Peak.

4/4

TERRAIN

3/4

3/4

PHOTO: DOUGBERRY©-ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM

ASPEN TO TELLURIDE Enjoy snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, tumbling waterfalls and golden aspen trees.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: ASPEN Arrive in Aspen and overnight in one of Aspen’s finest hotels, located in the center of this bustling former mining town. Meet your guides and group at the hotel for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: ASPEN LOOP HIKE Today your guides will choose an appropriate itinerary to meet the group needs and interests. Aspen has an endless array of options from gentle to very challenging hikes. Distance: variable. Elevation gain/loss: variable.

DAY 3: ASPEN TO CRESTED BUTTE Transfer to the trailhead and hike above treeline into a pristine, high alpine

environment. On your way to Gothic, a small town outside of Crested Butte, historians will enjoy countless examples of 19th and 20th century mining architecture.

Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain: 3275 ft.

DAY 4: RED LADY SUMMIT Hike through a lush forest of spruce and fir before reaching the summit of Red Lady, or Mt. Emmons, where 360-degree views back towards Crested Butte, the town and peak, are simply breathtaking. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2910 ft.

DAY 5: CRESTED BUTTE TO OURAY - PERIMETER TRAIL

After a transfer to Ouray we hike the Perimeter Trail, which leads us above and around the charming, historic mining town of Ouray, also known as the Switzerland of America. Along the trail we visit several waterfalls and cross five bridges all beneath soaring snow-capped mountains. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1600 ft.

GUIDED TOUR*

September 22 – 29 Price: $5,700 (single +$780) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

Late June – September Price: $6,960 (single +$780)

DAY 6: OURAY TO TELLURIDE Today we take a jeep ride to our trailhead and then head straight down into the town of Telluride via Imogene Pass. Enjoy incredible views of the San Juan Mountains all day. The high point is over 13,000 ft. When finished, we head to Telluride’s historic district where our hotel is situated. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1600 ft.

†Price based on a group of four.

DAY 7: TELLURIDE

The last day of the trek is spent hiking in the Telluride region. The majestic San Juan Mountains offer the greatest concentration of 14,000 ft. peaks in the contiguous United States. They are also the most rugged, making for a very dramatic skyline and backdrop. There are countless hiking trails for all levels. This is your guides’ backyard, so they will choose a favorite hike to share with you.

Distance: up to 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 2000 ft.

• 7 nights, 8 days • 7 nights charming western bed and breakfasts and four star hotels.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Aspen inbound.

Montrose or Grand Junction outbound.

DAY 8: DEPART

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

Aspen

COLORADO USA

Capitol Peak

Gunnison Mt National Emmons Forest

PHOTOS: NYKER©,DEPOSITPHOTO.COM, EILEENBURNS©

DATES & PRICING

Crested Butte

Curecanti National Recreation Area

Mt Sneffels

Telluride

Uncompahgre Peak

Ouray

Lizard Head *All ground transportation between Aspen and Telluride included during the tour. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make the route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

53

“Peru is a magical country filled with history and culture.

The trek was well-planned, and the lodges exceeded my expectations.”

– Patsy T.

SOUTH AMERICA

THE SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU Discover the mysterious origins of the royal Inca.

C

ome explore the unique ancient history of the Land of the Incas. Our 10-day Peruvian adventure begins in the beautiful and bustling city of Cusco, which is perfectly tucked into the hillsides at an elevation of 11,200 feet and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

Our lodge-to-lodge trekking experience takes you on a historic section

TRIP RATINGS

Moderately challenging, hiking up to 9 miles with ascents up to 2,500 feet. Hikers should be in good condition – this trek reaches elevations up to 15,213 feet. (Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

54 RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

of Inca trail through 15 different eco-systems, while you traverse a mountain pass over 15,000 feet, explore villages where locals still maintain age-old traditions, and re-discover the mystical beauty of Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Inca Empire. Each day’s trek ends at a deluxe lodge followed by a gourmet meal with select wines.

4/4

TERRAIN

3/4

3/4

PHOTO; SCOTT BIALES DITCHTHEMAP©-DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

PERU

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: CUSCO

Arrive in Cusco, the once capital of the Inca Empire. Ryder-Walker will provide a transfer to the hotel. Meet your guides and group for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: CUSCO WALKING TOUR Today’s walking tour of the city includes the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, the Cathedral Basilica, and the historic Plaza de Armas. In the afternoon relax at the hotel or wander around the city exploring its many nooks and crannies.

DAY 3: CUSCO TO SORAYPAMPA Our first stop will be a visit to the Inca ruins at Quillarumiyok, then a stop for lunch in the mountain town of Mollepata before ascending a winding mountain road to Challacancha. Here we begin our hike to Soraypampa along a picturesque path called the “Camino Real” (Royal Path). Our lodge for tonight sits under the glacial peak of Mt. Salkantay, among the most sacred in Inca mythology and the highest in the region (20,600 ft). Distance: 4 miles. Elevation gain: 800 ft.

DAY 4: HUMANTAY LAKE Today we continue our slow and steady acclimation with a half-day hike up to Lake Humantay and its amazingly turquoise blue waters. Relax at the lake, at an elevation of 13,845 ft and wonder at the Humantay glacier looming above. You will have the afternoon to yourself. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1150 ft.

DAY 5: CROSSING THE SALKANTAY PASS We embark on our longest and most strenuous, but arguably the most magical, day of the trek. Our hike begins up the Rio Blanco valley, circling Humantay Peak, where we encounter expansive plateaus dotted with boulders of varying sizes. The final and most challenging part of today’s ascent is conquering the mountain switchbacks that take us to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point on the trek (15,213 ft). What follows is a dramatic descent through fields of giant boulders, often shrouded in fog. We stay at the remote Wayra Lodge at Wayraccmachay. Distance: 8 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 2500/2400 ft.

DAY 6: WAYRA LODGE TO COLPA LODGE We descend along the banks of the Salkantay River into the lower elevations of the cloud forest and the warmer air of the jungle below en route to the Colpa Lodge located on a promontory above the confluence of three rivers.

Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 400/3400 ft.

DAY 7: COLPA LODGE TO LUCMA LODGE

Today’s hike winds us down through the Santa Teresa River valley. We cross waterfall-fed streams and orchards. A van takes us to the start of the Llactapata Inca Trail that leads us shortly to the Lucma Lodge (elevation 7000 ft).

Distance: 9 miles. Elevation loss: 2400 ft.

DAY 8: LLACTAPATA PASS TO AGUAS CALIENTES Today we leave the last of our lodges and hike for several hours under the jungle canopy, treading on original Inca steps to the ruins at the Llactapata Pass (elevation 8975 ft). From the Llactapata Pass you get your first glimpse of the “back” side of Machu Picchu. After we explore the ruins at the pass our hike ends with a steep descent through bamboo forest. Enjoy a one-hour train ride to the village of Aguas Calientes. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1900/3100 ft.

DAY 9: MACHU PICCHU

At dawn we begin our journey to the sanctuary of Machu Picchu, where we enjoy a 2-3 hour guided tour of the grounds plus a Huayna Picchu hike. Prepare to be awed by the supremely skilled architecture of the Temple of the Sun, the Watchtower, and the many beautiful royal Inca residences. This afternoon we transfer by train to our hotel in Ollantaytambo.

DAY 10: OLLANTAYTAMBO RUINS We enjoy a morning tour of the Ollantaytambo Ruins, gateway to the Antisuyo (the Amazon corner of the Inca Empire) and located at the northern end of the Sacred Valley. From there we stop at the Chinchero Archeological site before transferring to Cusco for our final night.

DAY 11: DEPART Ryder-Walker provides a transfer to the airport.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

May 1 – 11 November 3 – 13 Price: $7,100* (single +$1,600**) *Minimum of four people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED* May – November Call for pricing.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

PERU

Colpa Lodge

Humantay Peak

Lucma Lodge

Humantay Lake

Challacancha Salkantay Lodge

Salkantay Pass

Wayra Lodge

Salkantay Peak Machu Picchu

Llactapata Pass

DETAILS

• 10 nights, 11 days • 5 nights in superior lodges and 5 nights in four and five-star hotels.

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Cusco via Lima

Hydroelectric Train Station

PHOTOS: RYDER-WALKERGUIDE©

Tarawasi Cusco

Aguas Calientes Lodge

Ollantaytambo

*All ground transportation during the trek included. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’; abilities. **There is the option for a single traveler to pay +$850 for single room in Cusco hotel and share a twin room in all lodges.

RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

55

“Ken was the perfect guide for our group.

He set the pace for a great week of hiking.

Everything was memorable including our picnics with story-book views. What a great trek.”

– Susan C.

EUROPE

FRENCH ALPS

M

ont Blanc is an icon; much more than a mountain. Huge and complex, it has something to offer everyone. Unlike the highlands of the Haute Savoie on the flanks of Mont Blanc, the terrain along the banks of the Isère River offers fantastic walking through perfectlypreserved antique hamlets in astonishingly remote locations.

Arriving in the world-renowned ski town of Chamonix, our trip through

TRIP RATINGS

Easy to moderate hiking up to 12.2 miles (two options offered most days) with ascents up to 4,240 feet. (Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

COMFORT

56 RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

the Tarentaise Mountains allows us to explore these fascinating valleys virtually alone and at a relaxed pace. We connect the villages of Chamonix, Les Contamines, Séez, tiny Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise, and the bustling winter hotspot of Val d’Isère. The Isère Valley is as well known for its cuisine as for its mountains, and we explore the finest that each village has to offer.

Hiking days are moderate to challenging.

EFFORT

3 /4 +

TERRAIN

3/4

3/4

PHOTO:ESTIVILLML©-ISTOCK.COM

MONT BLANC CHAMONIX TO VAL D’ISÈRE Hike the Tarentaise Mountains with views of the iconic Mont Blanc.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC Travel independently to Chamonix and overnight in a grand, old-world, four-star hotel. Meet the group and your guide(s) for welcome drinks and dinner at 7:00 pm.

DAY 2: CHAMONIX TO LES CONTAMINES Today’s outing offers extensive views of the Mont Blanc massif and fabulous north face of the Dômes de Miage and the opportunity to visit the lovely little hamlet of the Chalets de Miage. Starting from nearby Les Houches, this hike is an excellent moderate excursion. Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2640/4000 ft.

DAY 3: LES CONTAMINES TO SÉEZ This is a fascinating and historic hike to the remote Refuge du Col de la Croix du Bonhomme. Exit Contamines to the south on an old Roman thoroughfare past the famous Notre Dame de la Gorge. Ascend through farms to the atmospheric Col du Bonhomme. We will pass the venerable Refuge du Col de la Croix du Bonhomme and transfer from la Ville des Glaciers through Bourg St. Maurice and up the Petit San Bernard pass to our hotel.Distance: 12.2 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4200/3100 ft.

DAY 4: SÉEZ TO SAINTE-FOY-TARENTAISE From our hotel, we begin hiking through high pastures and tiny villages on the north side of the valley. Our trail leads past the wonderfully situated church of Saint Michel with its astonishing views over Mont Pourri, the Mont Blanc of the Tarantaise mountains. After a picnic at Le Falconnier, we descend to Sainte Foy. Distance: up to 6.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1200/2500 ft.

DAY 5: SAINTE-FOY TO REFUGE DE L’ARCHEBOC A fabulous day hike in the valley takes us to the Refuge de l’Archeboc, weaving our way up through more high alpine pastures and past sparkling lakes. The views get better and better as we climb higher, until we find ourselves just under the Italian border.

Return to our Sainte-Foy hotel. Distance: 8.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500/3800 ft.

DAY 6: LE MONAL TO VAL D’ISÈRE Today’s hike begins through the village of Le Monal, which is classified as a cultural heritage site in France and considered one of the best representations of traditional farming life. We continue into open country following ancient paths high above the main valley. A picnic in the panoramic hamlet of Nantcruet will be a highlight.

After lunch in the village, we continue to Lac du Chevril and transfer to Val d’Isère.

Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2600/1800 ft.

DAY 7: VAL D’ISÈRE DAY HIKE TO COL DE LA BAILLETTA Our final day begins with a short transfer to our trailhead at the entrance of the Reserve Naturelle de la Grande Sassiere. A perfect hour long warm up brings us to the high and wildly scenic Lac de la Sassiere before our final ascent to the Col de la Bailletta. We picnic at the high point, taking in the most sweeping views of the Isere valley before hiking back to our Val d’Isère hotel. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/ loss: 1800/3300 ft.

PHOTOS: ESTIVILLML©-ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM, JULIA KUZNETSOVA©-SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

DAY 8: DEPART

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

July 22 – 29 Price: $5,450 (single +$650) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

Mid June – Early September Price: $6,400 (single +$650)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 7 nights, 8 days • 7 nights charming, superior three and four star-hotels.

• Gastronomy is important on this itinerary and we will dine in many of the finer restaurants in the valley.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Geneva or Lyon

Chamonix Mont Blanc

FRANCE

Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise Mont Pourri

*All ground transportation between Chamonix and Val d’lsère included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

Lac du Chevril

Val d’Isère RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

57

“Elsa is a pleasure to hike with. Her being raised in Como and having hiked in and around the lakes district made this trip even more special. Elsa’s professionalism and enthusiasm to share her knowledge of this region’s history was impressive. We highly recommend this trip.”

– Darrall H.

EUROPE

ITALIAN LAKES DISTRICT HIKE

ake Como is best known for its lavish Villas, authentic Italian cuisine, and romantic lakeside views, but its best kept secret is the accessible alpine beauty of the dramatic surrounding mountains. Glacially carved over 10,000 years ago and forming the shape of an upside-down Y, Lake Como’s “Middle Lake” offers exquisite accommodations, genuine culture, historical perspective, and surprisingly remote and beautiful day hikes at the

TRIP RATINGS

Easy to moderate hiking up to 12.2 miles (two options offered most days) with ascents up to 4,240 feet. (Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

COMFORT

58 RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

foot of the Alps. These mountains are so revered that a little-known hut system exists among the open meadows, Faggi groves, and high ridges that run along either side of the lake, some of which you visit on your daily sojourns from the famous lakeside villages. Our lake-centered point-to-point hiking route begins in Varenna, the northern-most town, and ends in Como.

Ramble along ancient Roman paths offering breathtaking views of the lake.

EFFORT

3 /4 +

TERRAIN

3/4

3/4

PHOTO:AUDRIUS VENCLOVA©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

L

COMO, VARENNA, MENAGGIO & BELLAGIO Discover lakeside beauty with dramatic views of the Alps.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: VARENNA Travel independently to Varenna. Overnight in a lovely hotel in the center of town.

Meet the group and your guide(s) for welcome drinks and dinner at 7:00 pm.

DAY 2: VARENNA Today’s hike is a pleasant ramble through the high alpine environment of the Gringa Massif. Traverse beneath the Piancaformia ridge to the Rifugio Bietti for lunch and stunning views. For a truly challenging return, we climb to the Bocchetta Guzzi behind the rifugio. We taxi back to our hotel in Varenna. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1500 ft.

DAY 3: VARENNA TO MENAGGIO We begin today’s hike with a water ferry ride to Menaggio and a short taxi ride to the small town of Breglia in the hills above Menaggio. Our hike takes us to a rifugio where we enjoy a delicious lunch of regional Italian cuisine served with some of the best views of the Lake Maurice and up the Petit San Bernard pass to our hotel. Distance: 5 to 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2000 to 3000 ft.

DAY 4: MENAGGIO TO LENNO Today’s hike takes us to the heart of the valley, where we hike through pastures and meadows before ascending to the ridge line along the Italian-Swiss border. Our goal is a lookout point on Monte Generoso, the highest mountain peak in the Canton of Ticino, where we enjoy sweeping, panoramic views above Northern Italy. Enjoy views of the lake’s region, Gran Paradiso, Monte Rosa, and Matterhorn. Distance: up to 7.4 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2090 ft.

DAY 5: LENNO TO BELLAGIO Our hike today takes us along an old Roman road to the 11th century Monasterio San Benendetto. We return to Lenno via the Madonna al Soccorso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If time allows, we will hike up to Rifugio Buffalora on the ridge.

We end the day with a delightful ferry to our hotel in Bellagio. Distance: 6 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 2000 ft.

DAY 6: BELLAGIO TO COMO Today’s hike offers spectacular hiking and scenery along mule or cart tracks built and used by the Romans along with easy rambling trails. After gathering picnic lunch supplies, we take a taxi ride to Piana dei Sormano. Follow a meandering carriage road and trail thereafter to Passo Bocchetta di Molina where we enjoy our lunch. We continue all the way to the Brunate funicular just above Como for a pleasant ride into Como where we spend our last night. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1000 ft.

DAY 7: DEPART

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

May 28 – June 3 Price: $5,100 (single +$700) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

May – October Price: $6,200 (single +$700)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 7 nights, 8 days • 7 nights charming, superior three and four star-hotels.

• Gastronomy is important on this itinerary and we will dine in many of the finer restaurants in the valley.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Geneva or Lyon

ITALY

PHOTOS: NIKOKVFRMOTO©-DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM,TRANSDRUMER©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Lugano

Menaggio

Lake Lugano

Lenno

Lake Como

Varenna

Bellagio Grigna Mtns.

SWITZERLAND Lecco

Como

Lake Pusiano

Lake Annone

Lake Garlate

*All ground and water transportation between Varenna and Como included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

59

“I enjoyed the grandeur of mountains, pristine waters, and exquisite Patagonian cuisines.

Llao Llao Hotel was the epitome of luxury, and the hike to Refugio Frey was my favorite.”

–Theresa B.

SOUTH AMERICA

ARGENTINE PATAGONIA

T

his diverse land covers some 400,000 square miles. In geographical terms Argentine Patagonia is roughly the size of Texas, blessed with vast steppe grasslands, a rugged and beautiful Atlantic coastline, endless foothills and forests of indigenous trees, spectacular lakes and rivers, and the massive volcanoes and peaks of the mighty Andean Cordillera. Patagonia’s waterways are of seemingly infinite colors of blue, and the massive volcanoes

TRIP RATINGS

Moderately challenging, hiking up to 10.5 miles with ascents up to 2,530 feet.

Hikers should be in good condition.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

60 RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

and jagged granite peaks of the Andean cordillera rise up abruptly against the skyline. As vast as Patagonia is, we concentrate our tour discovering the mountain trails, refugios, and lakes of what is known as the “Lakes District” and the towns tucked in along the infamous Ruta 40. This trek enjoys various terrain and experiences, including summiting a peak, strolling through Los Arrayanes National Park, and visiting an island beach.

3 /4 +

TERRAIN

3/4

3/4

PHOTO: SAIKO3P©-ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM

THE LAKES DISTRICT Visit Argentina: Lush, ancient forests, brilliant blue lakes & volcanoes.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY DAY 1: SAN CARLOS DE BARILOCHE

Arrive in Bariloche, the gateway to the Northern Patagonian Lakes District. Meet the group and guide(s) for welcome drinks and dinner at 7 pm.

DAY 2: BARILOCHE TO EL BOLSÓN

Transfer by van 1.5-2 hrs south to the laid back village of El Bolsón, its name translating literally to “handbag” as it sits tucked between two high ranges. We hike up the Rio Azul en route to the Cajon de Azul, or Blue Canyon, encountering amazingly clear blue water, multiple bridge crossings, and quaint refugios.

Distance: 9.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1500 ft.

DAY 3: EL BOLSÓN TO PILTRI Today we drive south to the outskirts of Bolsón and up to the trailhead to Cerro Piltriquitron, or Piltri, as the locals call it. After an hour of ascent we arrive at the refugio for a quick break. From the refugio we continue our ascent to the upper slopes of Piltri and on to the summit for amazing 360 degree views of the Patagonian Andes. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3800 ft.

DAY 4: EL BOLSÓN TO LLAO LLAO

This morning we head north to the Llao Llao Peninsula and our trailhead for Cerro López. We climb through the forest to Roca Negra, or Black Rock, a small hut, to enjoy a coffee or tea break. We continue our climb to Refugio López with unmatched views of the Llao Llao peninsula and Lago Nahuel Haupi. The day ends with a quick transport. Tonight we stay at a lovely hotel in Llao Llao. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2400 ft.

DAY 5: LLAO LLAO - REFUGIO FREY

A little elevation boost via gondola and lift at Cerro Catedral ski area takes us to our trailhead where we start our classic hike. After a short climb to Punto Paradiso, we begin the long traverse enjoying spectacular views into the Rucoca Valley and to the glaciated mighty Monte Tronador in the distance. From the Cancha de Futbol, Football Pitch Col, we drop down to Laguna Schmoll and on to Refugio Frey on the eastern shores of Laguna Toncek. Our easy descent is through the forest, passing Refugio Piedras. Return to our hotel in Llao Llao. Distance: 10.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 640/3800 ft.

DAY 6: LLAO LLAO - SAN MARTIN DE LOS ANDES

After a transfer around Lago Nahuel Huapi we disembark at the northern tip of the Quetrihue Peninsula and Los Arrayanes National Park. The park was founded in 1971 to protect its forest of rare cinnamon colored Arrayan trees. Today’s hike is a casual out and back stroll through the forest offering great views of the Cordillera de los Andes and Bahia Brava. We end with a 2 hour drive to one of our favorite villages in Argentina, San Martin de los Andes. Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 250/400 ft.

DAY 7: MAPUCHE SETTLEMENT TO LAGO LÁCAR

We hike from our hotel in San Martin around the bay up to the Mapuche settlement of Curruhinca, and on down to a lovely little beach on the shores of Lago Lácar named La Islita, meaning little island. Following a beach lunch we wander back up through Curruhinca to a fantastic overlook named Mirador Bandurrias, overlooking Lago Lácar.

Retracing our steps we hike back towards San Martin via a series of singletrack trails weaving down through the hillside overlooking the idyllic little bay, on which San Martin sits. Once back to town we should have ample time to explore this lovely little village. Distance: 6.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1200 ft.

PHOTOS: RYDERWALKERGUIDE©

DAY 8: CERRO COLORADO Today we hike the 5,833-foot peak of Cerro Colorado (Mount Red), an extinct volcano with breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding Andes Mountains and Lácar basin below, with its crystal-clear lakes including Lácar and Lolog. We return to our hotel for another relaxing night. Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2530 ft.

DAY 9: SAN MARTIN DE LOS ANDES TO BARILOCHE Today is somewhat of a travel day as we drive south back to Bariloche via the famously beautiful Ruta 40. We should arrive back in Bariloche by mid-day and have the option of a half-day hike, or you can take a walking tour of Bariloche’s Centro Civico and its main commercial shopping streets. We overnight in Bariloche and enjoy a final dinner celebration DAY 10: DEPART

*All ground transportation between Bariloche and Puerto Varas included. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

March 6 – 15 Price: $7,000 (single +$1,350) Minimum of four people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

Late December – Mid March Price: $10,650† (single +$1,350)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 9 nights, 10 days • 9 nights in charming inns and superior four star hotels.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateways: Bariloche, Argentina

ARGENTINE PATAGONIA San Martin de Los Andes

Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi

Llao Llao Bariloche

El Foyel

El Bolsón RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

61

“Our Portugal hike was absolutely amazing, particularly the route along the ocean. I can’t say enough about how happy we were with every aspect of the trip.”

– Michael D.

EUROPE

THE SOUTHWESTERN SCENIC COASTAL TREK One of the most spectacular coastal hikes in the world.

T

here are few coastal hikes that offer the pristine beauty of Portugal’s Fishermen’s Trail. Hugging the wild Atlantic Coast, the trail winds through nearly vacant, sandy beaches, across freshwater streams, along rugged cliffs, and into tranquil villages. Our trek begins in the heart of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park. We hike to Almograve

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate terrain, hiking up to 13 miles with ascents up to 850 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

62 RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

beach, with its gentle sand dunes and dotted dramatic black shale rocks. A highlight is the village of Odeciexe, with its river-wrapped beach, jagged cliffs, and cobbled streets. Heading south we move to the Algarve region to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys trail combining stunning views with trails made of wooden boardwalks, earthen pathways, and steep staircases.

3/4

TERRAIN

3/4

3/4

PHOTO: WORLDPITOU@GMAIL.COM©-DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

PORTUGAL

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: VILA NOVA DE MILFONTES

R yder-Walker will provide a transfer from Lisbon to Vila Nova de Milfontes, a lovely, and laid-back coastal village located in the heart of the Alentejo coastline. Meet your guides and group for welcome drinks and dinner.

DAY 2: PORTO COVO TO VILA NOVA DE MILFONTES We transfer to the official start of the Fishermen’s Trail just north in Porto Covo and embark on our coastal journey south through the dunes, deserted beaches, and coves of the Costa Vicentina. Vila Nova de Milfontes is a welcome respite after a day of sandy coastal walking. Distance: 12 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 550/500 ft.

DAY 3: VILA NOVA DE MILFONTES TO ALMOGRAVE We begin with a short ferry ride to the trailhead. Today’s hike on the Fishermen’s Trail is on a wider path. The scents of pine, eucalyptus, and the hearty coastal vegetation dominate the air. Our hike ends on the lovely beach in Almograve, before a short transfer to our lovely hotel. Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 280/380 ft.

DAY 4: ALMOGRAVE TO ZAMBUJEIRA DO MAR Today we enjoy red-hued sand dunes and cliffs harboring more than 20 species of birds nesting. Passing through the tiny village of Cavaleiro, we eventually stroll into the tranquil village of Zambujeira do Mar and on to our well-appointed hotel.

Distance: up to 13 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 660/630 ft.

DAY 5: ZAMBUJEIRA DO MAR TO ODECEIXE Continuing along the Fishermen’s Trail, we pass the beautiful beaches of Alteirinhos, Carvalhal, Machados, and Amalia en route to the natural fishing harbor of Azenha do Mar. From one of the finest viewpoints in the region, we look down upon the stunning beach of Odeceixe, which is our final destination. Distance: 11 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 850/920 ft.

DAY 6: ALGARVE COAST Leaving behind the Fishermen’s Trail, we transfer to the small, laid-back surfing/ fishing village of Burgau. We truly experience the beauty of the Algarve coast and its orange sandstone formations and magical grottos on our hike into the historic and bustling village of Lagos, located on the very southern tip of the Portuguese coast. Distance: up to 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 700/800 ft.

DAY 7: SEVEN HANGING VALLEYS TRAIL After a short transfer to Praia da Marinha, we embark on a favorite trail in the Algarve. Covering some of the most enchanting beaches and coves in Europe, if not the world, we hike along the rugged coast, exploring the beautifully carved rock formations. If weather permits, we take a private boat giving us the opportunity to take in the amazing coastline before a short transfer back to Lagos. Distance: up to 7.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 400 ft.

DAY 8: DEPART

Lisbon

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

April 30 – May 7 October 5 – 12 Price: $4,650 (single +$570) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

April – November Price: $5,820 (single +$570)

†Price based on a group of four.

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

April – November Price: $3,200 (single +$570)

DETAILS

• 7 nights, 8 days • 7 nights first class hotels and charming inns.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Lisbon, Faro

PORTUGAL

PHOTOS: RYDER-WALKER GUIDE©, R.M. NUNES©-ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM

Porto Covo Atlantic Ocean

Vila Nova de Milfontes Almograve Zambujeira do Mar BEJA DISTRICT

Odeceixe *All ground transportation beginning in Vila Nova de Milfontes and ending in Lagos included in the tour. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

FARO DISTRICT

Faro

Lagos

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63

“Guides Ken and Branford should clone themselves!

The accommodations were terrific.

The most enjoyable hotel was San Vigilio where we enjoyed a candlelight dinner that was superbly done on all measures.”

– Larry A.

EUROPE

VIA LADINIA

T

he Pusteria Valley on the Italian/Austrian border is where the Alps morph into the Dolomites. The northern flank of the valley is pastoral with undefined walls of limestone and gentler summits. The southern flank is where the Dolomites find their personality and skyrocket above you as compact and jagged summits of unfathomable verticality.

The magnificence of this hiking itinerary lies in its ability to navigate

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate hiking up to 12 miles with ascents up to 4,150 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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these seemingly impenetrable peaks. The route sneaks its way through heavenly lush meadows and links fascinating and remote hamlets, with charming hotels and one superbly appointed rifugio. Adventuresome outings exist in the higher hills and the more rugged ridges of this forgotten section of the Dolomites, often passing the astonishing relics of World War I’s Fronte Italiano.

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PHOTO: VOLODYMYR©ISTOCK.COM.COM

HEART OF THE ITALIAN DOLOMITES Explore the two most quiet and remote areas of the Dolomites.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: SAN CANDIDO Transfer independently to San Candido. This is an easy transfer on the train line through the Val Pusteria (from the main Munich/Milan line through Fortezza). Meet your guides and group for welcome drinks and dinner.

DAY 2: SAN CANDIDO LOOP HIKE Bus to the Fischleintal Valley and hike into the Sesto Dolomites. After following the Via Alpia trail to the Talschlusshütte and on to the high point today, Rifugio Comici. Return to San Candido. Distance: 8.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2600 ft.

DAY 3: SAN CANDIDO TO SAN VIGILIO After a quick van transfer to the Lago di Braies, (to many the most beautiful lake in the Dolomites) hike over the Kreuzjoch, with lunch in the agriturismo Ucia de Fejedora, which is outstanding. Hike to San Vigilio, or “Al Plan” in Ladin. Check into our wonderful hotel in this quaint hamlet. Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 3000 ft.

DAY 4: SAN VIGILIO TO RIFUGIO FANES Today’s hike from San Vigilio to the Alp Fanes is primarily a dramatic ascent to Passo de San Antonio. Much of the hike is in the Fanes wilderness preserve, along quiet trails through unspoiled forest, hiking over the Ju de St. Antoine. Overnight in the Rifugio Fanes (some private rooms, great kitchen, even has WiFi). Distance: 12 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 4150/1390 ft.

DAY 5: RIFUGIO FANES TO ALTA BADIA, SAN CASSIANO Today we access the isolated Ciasa Salares in the Valparola above the romantic hamlet of San Cassiano. The Ciasa Salares is a superior four-star hotel with a fantastic kitchen and spa facilities set above endless meadows. Distance: 11 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 1800/3550 ft.

DAY 6: ALTA BADIA Today we hike from Abtei back to Armentarola. Ride the ski lift from the village of Pedraces and enjoy a fun-filled hiking day through the famous pastures of the upper Badia Valley. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1000/1400 ft.

DAY 7: ALTA BADIA, SAN CASSIANO TO LIVINALLONGO Today’s hike climbs up over the historic Col di Lana (or blood mountain) and down into the Livinallongo Valley, the heart of the Ladin culture. This exceptional day takes in the summit of a mountain fought over during World War I. Distance: 10 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 1400/2800 ft.

DAY 8: DEPART Ryder-Walker provides a taxi to the Belluno train station.

San Candido

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

September 14 – 21 Price: $5,100 (single +$680) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

Mid June – Mid September Price: $6,350 (single +$680)

†Price based on a group of four.

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Mid June – Mid September Price: $3,060 (single +$680)

DETAILS

• 7 nights, 8 days • 6 nights excellent hotels and 1 night well-appointed rifugio with some private rooms.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Munich, Venice, Milan

ITALY

San Vigilio

PHOTOS: CORRADOBARATTAPHOTOS©ISTOCK.COM,KEN FUHRER©

Rifugio Fanes

Piz Boé

San Cassiano

Livinallongo

Monte Civetta *All ground transportation between San Candido and Livinallongo included. Luggage transfer all nights except at mountain hut. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

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“The professionalism of our guides surpassed all expectations! Having hiked with Ryder-Walker on multiple occasions, each experience has consistently exceeded our highest expectations.”

–Stephen R.

EUROPE

DOLOMITI DI BRENTA

A

true hidden gem in the Alps, the Dolomiti di Brenta is bordered by the Swiss Alps to the west and the Austrian Alps to the north. Unlike the bulk of the Dolomites to the east, where Austro-Hungarian history mixes with Ladin and Italian, the Dolomiti di Brenta enjoy a purely Italian culture and flavor.

Beginning in the elegant and fashionable alpine village of Madonna di Campiglio, surrounded by the Adamello Brenta Nature Park, we spend six days exploring high alpine lakes, steep limestone peaks and quiet larch

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate terrain, hiking up to 8 miles with ascents up to 4,300 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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forests, as well as striking out into the very heart of the Brenta Group with its strategically placed and well-appointed huts.

Highlights of the tour include a night in a spectacularly situated hut in the very heart of the range; a ridgeline ramble with views of the Trento Valley to the east, the Brenta Group to the west, and the spectacular Lago di Garda to south; and the lovely village of Molveno, perched right on the shores of one of the most beautiful lakes in the Alps.

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PHOTO: DANNYIACOB©-DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

MADONNA DI CAMPIGLIO AND MOLVENO The Brenta Dolomites, Italy’s westernmost major incursion of Dolomite limestone.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: MADONNA DI CAMPIGLIO

Travel independently by rail to Trento. Ryder-Walker will provide one afternoon shuttle to Madonna di Campiglio, which is about a two-hour ride. Meet your guide(s) and group for cocktails and dinner.

DAY 2: MADONNA DI CAMPIGLIO Today we enjoy a moderate trip high above Madonna di Campiglio where we view the picturesque landscape, including five gorgeous alpine lakes and the Adamello Group, a lovely collection of limestone needles. We take in the final sweeping views of the Brenta Massif before returning to our hotel in Madonna di Campiglio.

Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500 ft.

DAY 3: MADONNA DI CAMPIGLIO TO RIFUGIO AI BRENTEI Today’s trek takes us deeper into the heart of the Brenta Group and offers

spectacular and stark views of the Brenta as we meander through the idyllic and enchanting landscape. Nosh along the way at quaint and delightful mountain huts.

Ramble on through the beauty of this high alpine region as we make our way to the authentic, family run Rifugio Brentei, which offers some of the most spectacular views of the Dolomites. Distance: 7.5 miles. Elevation gain: 2000/1700 ft.

DAY 4: RIFUGIO AI BRENTEI TO MOLVENO We begin today with a walk out to an impressive viewpoint, where we revel in all the splendor that surrounds us. Descending towards Molveno, we traverse to the Rifugio Croz dell’Altissimo and then on to Rifugio Pradel. Here there is a choice to either ride a lift to town or continue walking another hour to our wonderful four- star hotel located in the heart of Molveno. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: negligible/3000 ft.

DAY 5: MOLVENO Today’s hike offers beautiful views of the Trento/Alto Adige valley on one side and amazing views of the Brenta and northern Lago di Garda area on the other side.

Lunch is at a restaurant with magnificent views of the Brenta range. A bit of public transportation takes us back to Molveno. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 800/1900 ft.

DAY 6: MOLVENO TO MADONNA DI CAMPIGLIO

Today we follow a scenic trail from the lake shores of Molveno through Andalo and back to Madonno di Campiglio. Our route includes a bit of uphill from Andalo to Malga Spora. After lunch, we enjoy a final push over the Passo Groste and then head back to the familiar setting of our five-star hotel in Madonna. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4300/600 ft.

DAY 7: MOLVENO Guides choice for the hike today, or enjoy a rest day.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

September 6 – 14 Price: $6,300 (single +$1,030)

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

Late June, July – Early September $7,770 (single +$1,030)

SELF-GUIDED TOUR - 8 DAYS

Late June, July – Early September Price: $3,200 (single +$1,030) No rest day in Molveno for Self-Guided trek

DETAILS

• 8 nights, 9 days • 8 nights first class hotels, plus 1 night comfortable rifugio.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateways: Verona, Venice, Milan

DAY 8: MADONNA DI CAMPIGLIO

Todays hike is a fitting way to end our journey through the Brenta Dolomiti.

Wildflowers, waterfalls and an amazing lunch spot await us on this tour from Monte Spinale into the Vallesinella and back up to Madonna di Campiglio and our five star hotel. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 500/2960 ft.

DAY 9: DEPART Cirque Laghi

ITALY

PHOTOS: RYDER WALKER GUIDE©

Madonna di Campiglio

Dolomiti di Brenta Mountain Range *All ground transportation beginning and ending in Madonna di Campiglio included during tour. Luggage transfer daily except at mountain hut. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hiker’s abilities.

Cima Tosa

Rifugio Ai Brentei Rifugio Tosa Pedrotti Campanile Basso

Andalo

Molveno

Lago di Molveno

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67

“Our guides were knowledgable, easy goig and accommodating. Our hike t the Cirque du Gavarnie was spectacular. This was my fourth trip with Ryder-Walker and not the last for sure.”

–Mojdeh T.

EUROPE

HAUTE PYRÉNÉES MOUNTAIN TREK

O

ur week-long trip to the high peaks of the Pyrénées offers an opportunity to visit the stunning mountain range that defines the border between France and Spain and enjoy the unique cultural heritage of this enchanting region. We begin our journey in the French mountain hamlet of Cauterets, nestled on the north side of the Parc National Des Pyrénées Occidentales. Over the course of the following week, we

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate hiking up to 10 miles with ascents up to 4,100 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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trek through some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe, ending our journey in the Spanish village of Torla, gateway to Parque Nacional Ordesa y Monte Perdido. These two neighboring national parks offer dramatic backdrops to the distinctive cultures that evolved throughout the centuries on either side of the Pyrénées. During the highest point on our trek, one night is spent in a traditional mountain refuge in the central Pyrénées.

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PHOTO:PERSZING1982©-DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

FROM FRANCE TO SPAIN The central and high Pyrénées have peaks that rival the finest in the Alps.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: CAUTERETS

Fly into Toulouse and transfer independently to Lourdes where Ryder-Walker provides a taxi to Cauterets. Meet guides and group for a brief orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: REFUGE WALLON MARCADAU

Explore the breathtaking Vallee du Marcadau beginning at Pont d’Espagne where we hike to the picturesque Lac du Pourtet, then descend to Refuge Wallon Marcadau for a delicious French lunch. Return to our Cauterets hotel for the night.

Distance: up to 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3150 ft.

DAY 3: CAUTERETS TO REFUGE DE BAYSSELLANCE Exit over the Pont d’Espagne as we ascend toward the Vignemale, the highest peak in the French Pyrénées. The most challenging ascent of the trip follows to the flanks of the Petit Vignemale and over the pass to the Refuge de Bayssellance, the highest refuge in the Pyrénées. Distance: 8.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4100/270 ft.

DAY 4: REFUGE DE BAYSSELLANCE TO GAVARNIE After an early morning hut breakfast, we begin our traverse and descent into the Cirque du Gavarnie, one of the most impressive mountain features in Europe. Ringed by massive rock walls and huge waterfalls, we enter the hamlet of Gavarnie and our excellent, castle-like hotel. Distance: 9.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: none/4200 ft.

DAY 5: CIRQUE DU GAVARNIE We have a variety of easy hikes to choose from today ranging from 2 to 5 hours with different points of view of the cirque and the waterfall. This is a great day to relax between two longer days of hiking. Distance: up to 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 900 ft.

DAY 6: GAVARNIE TO TORLA, SPAIN We cross over from France into Spain, and from Parc National des Pyrénées Occidentales into Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Monte Perdido. We hike over the Port de Boucharo (Puerto de Bujaruelo in Spanish), the international boundary, and descend to the San Nicolas de Bujaruelo Refugio. From here we hike to our splendid hotel in Torla. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 250/4200 ft.

DAY 7: VALLE DE ORDESA Today we enjoy the change of geology, geography, flora and fauna, as we hike through the Valle de Ordesa. From the high peaks and glaciers of the central range, we have descended into the carved sandstone canyons that flank the Spanish side. We return from our hike in the Parque Nacional for another evening in Torla.

Distance: up to 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 2300 ft.

DAY 8: DEPART Ryder-Walker provides a departure tranfer to Zaragoza airport/train station.

Cauterets

Vallee du Marcadeau Grand Pic de Deterneille

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

July 24 – 31 Price: $5,900 (single +$650) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED* June – September $6,450 (single +$650)

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 7 nights, 8 days • 6 nights in classic mountain hotels and family run inns. One night in a traditional refuge.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateways: Toulouse inbound, Zaragoza outbound.

Refuge de Bayssellance Vignemale Peak

SPAIN

FRANCE

Port de Boucharo *Luggage transfer included everywhere except refuge.

Transportation between Lourdes Zaragoza included.

NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hiker’s abilities.

Torla

Gavarnie

Cirque de Gavarnie

Monte Perdido Valle de Ordesa

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69

“Hiking Jbel Toubkal was exhilarating and the panoramic views were outstanding. This was an adventure in so many ways including the cultural aspect. Guides were amazing!”

– Alex C.

AFRICA

MOROCCO

I

n Morocco, the Atlas Mountains rise against wide desert plateaus and the pastel medieval buildings of Marrakesh. As you walk across the busy markets bustling with wild sounds, colors, and smells and through small mountain hamlets seemingly carved into the peaks, you can feel the antiquity of the land beneath your feet.

The Atlas Mountains Trek begins in the walled imperial city of

TRIP RATINGS

Challenging hiking up to 9 miles with ascents up to 3,500 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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Marrakesh, founded in the eleventh century. Next, you’re off to the mountain hamlet of Imlil, and then on to ascend Jbel Toubkal (13,671 feet), the highest mountain in North Africa. Afterwards, you travel to Essaouira for two nights of pure bliss, watching the sunset over the Atlantic and the western shores of Africa before traveling back to Marrakesh for your departure.

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PHOTO: WEISSDERGEIER©DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

ATLAS MOUNTAINS TREK Climb the highest mountain in North Africa.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: MARRAKESH

A Ryder-Walker representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. Meet your guides and group for a brief orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: MARRAKESH TO IMLIL Transfer to the picturesque village of Imlil. Along the way, the scenery transitions from city to country. Enjoy an easy acclimatization hike before returning to our hotel in Imlil for dinner. Distance: up to 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 1500 ft.

DAY 3: IMLIL Today we head east and cross the mountain pass which connects the valley of Imlil to Tacheddirt, the highest settlement in the Atlas Mountains. After a refreshing drink at the pass, we continue up on a mountain path to the summit of Tamalroute. Enjoy the stunning views of the high Toubkal range shaped by long river valleys, which feed the desert fields of Marrakesh with fresh water. Descend on the country road for a deliciously prepared lunch at the Toubkal Guide headquarters - locally known as Jamal’s place. Distance: Up to 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2400 ft.

DAY 4: IMLIL TO REFUGE AZIB TAMSOULT

Today we hike through a gorgeous mountain pass close to the summit of Tasserimoute. When we arrive for lunch, the porters and mules, as well as a local cook, will already be there with an elaborate spread of local produce served up and ready for our enjoyment. Continue on for a night at the Refuge Azib Tamsoult.

Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain: 2700 ft.

DAY 5: REFUGE AZIB TAMSOULT TO REFUGE LES MOUFLONS

Our journey continues through the mountains until arriving at the Refuge Les Mouflons, named after the bighorn sheep that are native to the region. Les Mouflons is a rustic refuge on the flanks of Toubkal. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain: 5000 ft.

DAY 6: JBEL TOUBKAL Ascend Jbel Toubkal (13,671 feet), the highest mountain in North Africa. This is a non-technical ascent on a good, but rocky, trail the entire way, and we are truly on top of the world at the summit. Return to the Refuge. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3150 ft.

DAY 7: LES MOUFLONS TO IMLIL We begin our descent from the high country by following a scenic trail along the Isougouane River. We stop for tea at the Sidi Chamarouch before continuing to Imlil where we enjoy a final lunch with our porters and cooks. Distance: 7 miles.

Elevation loss: 4600 ft.

DAY 8: IMLIL TO ESSAOUIRA Transfer by van through the desert to the port city of Essaouira. The atmosphere of Essaouira is truly spellbinding. The breeze along the Atlantic shore is invigorating, and the shopping is the best of the trip. We dine in a superb local restaurant.

Overnight in a four star hotel.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

October 9 – 18 Price: $5,550 * (single +$720) No single rooms in refuges. *Minimum of four people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

April – May, September – October Price $6,400 (single +$720) No single rooms in refuges. †Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 9 nights, 10 days • 2 nights in four-star hotels, 4 nights in threestar and four-star riads (traditional Moroccan homes turned into hotels), 3 nights in rugged refuges with limited electricity, shared facilities and no guarantee of hot water.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Marrakesh

DAY 9: ESSAOUIRA Enjoy a morning beach walk and spend the afternoon relaxing or shopping at the markets. Although not as big as Marrakesh, you will find the same popular merchandise.

PHOTO: AEROSTATO©ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM, RYDER-WALKER GUIDE©

DAY 10: DEPART Ryder-Walker will provide one shuttle transfer in the morning to Marrakesh.

Atlantic Ocean

MOROCCO Marrakesh

Essaouira

Refuge Azib Tamsoult Refuge Les Mouflons

Imlil Jbel Toubkal

*Luggage access all nights, small duffel only for three nights of trekking. Ground transportation included during tour.

NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

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71

“I can’t think of how this tour could be improved on.

Every aspect was near perfect for us thanks to your logistics team and guides.”

– M.S.

EUROPE

TOUR DU MONT BLANC

M

ont Blanc (15,781 feet) rises more than 12,000 vertical feet above the famous resort village of Chamonix, France. The epitome of everything that is “alpine” in the Alps, this walk around the entire circumference of Western Europe’s tallest peak is incomparable and infinitely special. Hike across the borders of France, Italy, and Switzerland during our ten-day

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate to challenging hiking up to 12 miles and ascents up to 4,300 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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hiking tour. We lead you from the mountain-chic cafés of Chamonix, to remote mountain hamlets en route to Courmayeur, Italy, and we cross into Switzerland before heading back into France on the Grand Balcon Sud, one of the most beautiful hiking trails in all of France. This itinerary is a wonderful reward for the physically fit.

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PHOTO: ZAKAZ86 ©-ISTOCK.COM

Circumnavigate the highest mountain in Western Europe.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: CHAMONIX

Arrive and transfer to Chamonix, France, located at the base of Western Europe’s tallest peak, Mont Blanc (15,781 feet).

DAY 2: CHAMONIX TO LES CONTAMINES Start with a journey beneath the Bionnassay Glacier on the western flanks of the Mont Blanc massif. Hike past old ruins and settlements, and then over the Col de Tricot while the glaciers glisten and sparkle above. Descend through a splendid forest to Les Contamines. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain: 2000 ft.

DAY 3: LES CONTAMINES TO VILLE DES GLACIERS Ascend past waterfalls on an ancient Roman road to the dramatically situated

Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme. A delightful descent through high alpine meadows offers the opportunity to spy the elusive steinbock. Distance: 12 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 4300/2950 ft.

DAY 4: VILLE DES GLACIERS TO COURMAYEUR The greetings change to Italian today as we cross the border to Italy at the Col de la Seigne. We enjoy staggering views of the glaciated peaks on the Italian side of Mont Blanc. Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain: 2400 ft. Option to hike 13 miles with total elevation gain/loss: 3250/2870 ft.

DAY 5: COURMAYEUR TO LAVACHEY Today we are treated to ever-improving views of the Brenva face of Mont Blanc, its most impressive and imposing aspect on our remote, rarely traveled variation.

Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3300/2100 ft.

DAY 6: LAVACHEY TO CHAMPEX The language changes to French as we ascend the Grand Col Ferret into Switzerland.

Stunning views of the Grand Combin make this a spectacular hike. Descend through pristine meadows to the Swiss Val Ferret. Transfer to the idyllic lakeside town, Champex, and our Swiss chalet. Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2800/2600 ft.

DAY 7: CHAMPEX TO TRIENT Today’s hike takes us through the town of Champex and up to one of our favorite lunch spots, the Bovine, a lovely family-run farm serving up fantastic food and beverages.

Following lunch, it is a short climb to the day’s highpoint and down to the Col de la Forclaz. From the Forclaz it’s a quick descent into the sleepy hamlet of Trient, with its signature Iglesia Rosada, or pink church. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2400 ft. Alternate hiking route distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss 4450 ft.

DAY 8: TRIENT TO ARGENTIÈRE Hike out of the tiny hamlet of Trient before climbing back into France on a pleasant variant of the TMB. Overnight at a traditional chalet style hotel in Argentière.

Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500/2700 ft.

DAY 9: ARGENTIÈRE TO CHAMONIX Our hike along the Grand Balcon Sud offers some of the best and most spectacular views of Mont Blanc and the Aiguilles, or rock needles, of Chamonix. Distance: up to 7 miles. Elevation gain: 2500 ft.

DAY 10: DEPART

PHOTOS: RYDER-WALKER©

Les Contamines

GUIDED TOUR*

June 19 – 28 August 21 – 30 Price: $5,800 (single +$650) Minimum of two people required to run tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

Mid June – Mid September Price: $7,150 (single +$650)

†Price based on a group of four.

SELF-GUIDED TOUR**

Mid June – Mid September Only selling pre booked dates for 2024.

Visit our website for tour dates.

Price: $3,450 (single +$650)

DETAILS

• 9 nights, 10 days • 4 nights first-class hotels, 3 nights charming inns, 1 night simple inn, shared bathrooms, 1 night nice refuge (hut), shared bathrooms.

(Private rooms subject to availability).

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

(Self-guided tours – dinners not included in Chamonix.)

• Gateway: Geneva

SWITZERLAND

FRANCE *All ground transportation beginning and ending in Chamonix included during tour. Luggage transfer daily except one night. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities. **Some ground transportation included. Breakfast and dinner daily except in Chamonix. Luggage transfers daily except one night.

DATES & PRICING

Trient Champex Aiguilles Rouges

Chamonix

Argentière Mer de Glace Aiguille du Midi

Grand Col Ferret

Lavachey

Mont Blanc Col de la Seigne

Courmayeur

ITALY

Ville des Glaciers

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“Corsica is a land of pure magic – our journey hikes a variety of coastal trails that weave in and out of cliff sides, hidden coves, and onto pristine sandy beaches.

We also trek high into the mountains above stunning glacial valleys and lakes below.”

– Nikola, Lead Guide

EUROPE

CORSICA: FRENCH ISLE ADVENTURE TREK

C

orsica is known for its rugged landscapes and a rich blend of French and Italian influences. The hiking is as varied and unique as the island, with the Balagne Mountains hemmed by the waters of the Mediterranean, and interspersed with dense forests, sandy beaches, medieval villages, and pristine pastureland. We hike diverse biomes, from

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate to challenging hiking up to 10 miles with ascents up to 2,000 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

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COMFORT

the Agriates desert to coastal trails, starting in Bastia, visiting the beaches of Calvi, glacial valleys of Corte, through the Aïtone Forest to the dramatic Spelunca river gorge, and to the remarkable Calanques de Piana cliffs, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We end our trek in the port city of Ajaccio, also the capital of Corsica.

EFFORT

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TERRAIN

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PHOTO: ODRACHENKO©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Explore the island’s craggy mountains, sandy beaches, glacial valleys adn more.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: BASTIA

Arrive in Bastia. Meet guide(s) and group for welcome dinner.

DAY 2: BSTIA TO CALVI Depart Bastia to the serene Balagne region, and explore the western edge of the Agriate desert, a 25-mile-long natural reserve. Our route traces the custom officers’ path to the promontory at Monte Orlandu, ending at the picturesque sand dunes of Ostriconi Beach. A brief drive along the scenic Balagne coast takes us to Calvi and our charming seaside hotel. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 700 ft.

DAY 3: FARA DELLA REVELLATA COASTAL HIKE We start today in Calvi’s historic district, hiking alongside the 13th-century citadel before joining the custom officer’s path to Faro della Revellata. Enjoy captivating views of the Balagne mountains arching above Algajola and Calvi’s beaches, and the Genoese citadel overlooking the bay. We also explore the far side of the peninsula, and the rugged Scandola shoreline. Distance: up to 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 700 ft.

DAY 4: BALAGNE TO CORTE Today hike begins at Algajola’s sandy beach. We follow the village trail, ascending gentle hillsides to the old mule path which leads us from the village of Corbara to Pigna, an on to St. Antonio, where we enjoy a terrace lunch with breathtaking aerial views of the Balagne region. Later, we wander Sant’Antonino’s charming narrow streets and passages before descending through olive groves and returning to Algajola’s beach. A one-hour transfer brings us to Corte, the old capital located in the heart of Corsica, for a two-night stay. Distance: up to 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1500 ft.

DAY 5: GLACIAL VALLEYS OF CORTE We explore one of two stunning glacial valleys, Restonica and Tavagnino, renowned for their natural beauty. The Restonica Valley features a scenic road that winds through the valley to waterfalls, glacial lakes beneath the granite domes of Monte Rotondo. In the Tavagnino gorge, a marked path follows the former glacial valley alongside a crystalclear river, part of the ‘Mare a Mare’ hiking trail traversing the island from east to west.

Distance: up to 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2000 ft.

DAY 6: CORTE TO PORTO - OTA A dramatic drive over Col de Vergio, the island’s highest road pass near Monte Cinto’s summit (4846 ft.) takes us to the village of Evisa where we begin our hike. The trail goes through the dense Aïtone Forest, descending into the 6 km (3.7-mile) Spelunca river gorge. We pass striking rock formations and serene pools on our way to Ota, a small village surrounded by impressive cliffs. We continue along the banks of the river Fango, concluding at Porto’s beach with breathtaking Mediterranean Sea views. Distance: 8.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 500/3000 ft.

PHOTOS: JONINGALL©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM, OUESTUSA©-SHUTTERSTOCKPHOTO.COM

DAY 7: CAPO ROSSO AND CALANCHES DE PIANA TO AJACCIO Today, we explore the Calanques de Piana, a UNESCO World Heritage site, one of Corsica’s most impressive landscapes. These striking red granite cliffs, some towering 1000 ft. above the Mediterranean, stretch for several miles along the coast to the Gulf of Porto. We then venture to Capo Rosso, a rocky promontory near the charming village of Piana. Our hike leads us to a preserved watchtower on the cape before transferring to Ajaccio, Corsica’s capital. Distance: 6.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1700 ft.

DAY 8: DEPART

Calvi

Phare de la Revellata

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

September 28 – October 5 Price: $6,500 (single +$700) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

May – October Price: $7,600 (single +$700)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 7 nights, 8 days • 7 nights first-class hotels.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Bastia and Ajaccio both have airports.

Bastia

Revellata lighthouse

Porto

Corte Évisa Gorges de la Restonica

Calanques de Piana Gulf of Porto

*All ground transportation between Bastia and Ajaccio included during tour. Luggage transfer daily (one bag per person). NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

Ajaccio

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“The trip was incredible. One of the most unique experiences of my life, and I couldn’t get over the variety and sheer beauty of every day in Switzerland.”

– Annabel T.

EUROPE

ENGADINE SUMMIT SERIES

O

ur expert team of Bergführers take you mountain hopping across the undiscovered peaks of eastern Switzerland. We spend six days summiting the many mid-height, unglaciated mountain peaks that the Engadine region is famous for, including the Piz Padella (9,370 feet), offering expansive views across the Rhaetian Alps.

TRIP RATINGS

Challenging hiking up to 12 miles with ascents up to 3,400 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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Spend two nights in each village, giving ample time to enjoy an in-depth exploration of the region’s history. Visit the towns of Zuoz, Pontresina, and Sils Maria. Celebrate the finish of your hike in the tiny hamlet of Soglio, a perfectly preserved village dating to the 14th century where Italian is the language of choice, and cobblestone roads carry you back in time.

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TERRAIN

3 /4 +

3 /4 +

PHOTO: ASIANDREAM©-ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM

Hike the undiscovered summits of the Swiss Engadine.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: ZUOZ

Travel independently to Zuoz, the first vantage point from which you can see the high, glaciated peaks of the Upper Engadine. Meet your guides and group at the hotel for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: ZUOZ Enjoy a warm-up day to one of our favorite high mountain huts above Zuoz. The views of the Palü and Bernina massifs to the southeast are superb. Descend near the old Albula Pass road to La Punt or Chamues-ch for transport back to Zuoz.

Distance: 6 to 12 miles. Elevation gain: 2880 ft.

DAY 3: ZUOZ TO PONTRESINA Transfer to one of the Upper Engadine’s greatest attractions, a funicular with

arguably the finest vista in the Alps. Traverse to one of the highest hikeable summits in the region. Stop for delicious soup and otherworldly views. Descend to Pontresina and a warm and welcoming inn in a quiet section of the village. Distance: up to 9 miles. Elevation gain: up to 3400 ft.

DAY 4: PONTRESINA Hike out of Schlarigna, made famous as the finish village of the renowned Cresta Run, perhaps the world’s most famous bobsled course. Wander into remote and rarely traveled terrain behind the summits of Las Tres Fluors and beneath the rocky Piz Ot. Descend to Samedan for transport back to Pontresina. Distance: 9 miles.

Elevation gain: 3350 ft.

DAY 5: PONTRESINA TO SILS MARIA Begin with a gentle ascent up one of the Alps’ most pristine valleys, a region carved by glaciers over the millennia. We hike all the way to the head of the valley where a charismatic hut rests on the edge of a moraine adjacent to a quickly receding glacier. Descend to Sils Maria and another superb old-world hotel. Distance: 12 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2800/3000 ft.

DAY 6: SILS MARIA There are numerous hikeable summits surrounding Sils Maria, and we will choose among them for today’s itinerary. Enjoy views of the wild and spectacular Val Bregaglia to the south, a region characterized by massive granite walls emerging from lush valleys on the Italian border. Return to Sils Maria hotel. Distance: 8 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 3220/2775 ft.

DAY 7: SILS MARIA TO SOGLIO High above the Val Bregaglia we ascend to a pass above our final destination, Soglio, one of the most charming villages in the world. We descend into Soglio through numerous rustic, but still active, tiny farms and hamlets. Enjoy your last night in Soglio dining on local specialties and watching the alpenglow embrace the granite spires of the Bregaglia. Distance: 7.25 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1170/2290 ft.

DAY 8: DEPART

Zuoz

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

August 14 – 21 Price: $5,500 (single +$620) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

Late June – Mid September Price: $6,200 (single +$620)

†Price based on a group of four.

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Late June – Mid September Price: $3,150 (single +$620)

DETAILS

• 7 nights, 8 days • 7 nights charming country inns and old-world hotels.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Zurich

SWITZERLAND Piz Ot

Piz Padella

Las Trais Fluors

St. Moritz

Pontresina

Piz Languard

PHOTOS: BOTH PHOTOS: RYDERWALKERGUIDE©

Sils Maria Lake Silvaplana

Piz Lunghin

Lake Sils

Piz Bernina

Soglio

Piz Palü

ITALY

*All ground transportation between Zuoz and Soglio included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

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“The guides were nice and low key, yet totally safe, and the trek was perfectly planned. Makes it easy for us overworked souls, to just pick up and go!”

– Margot G.

EUROPE

HIKER’S HAUTE ROUTE

T

he world famous Haute Route crosses the highest mountain range in Western Europe, the Pennine Alps, and links the Mont Blanc region in France with the rugged Canton Valais in southwestern Switzerland.

Starting in the bustling alpine center of Chamonix, France, beneath the mighty massif of Europe’s highest summit, Mont Blanc (15,781 feet), the trail crosses eastward into Switzerland and finishes in the famous resort village of Zermatt, set beneath the soaring pyramidal flanks of the Matterhorn.

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate hiking up to 11 miles with ascents up to 4,800 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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First walked in 1903 the Haute Route also passes beneath Europe’s highest glaciated mountains, Mont Blanc, the Grand Combin, Obergabelhorn, Weisshorn, Dent Blanche, Zinalrothorn, and the Matterhorn, just to name a few. A network of trail systems connects sleepy little villages, with their lush pastures, blackened timber houses, and slate roofs while lonely mountain passes lead to a stunning world of glaciers, aiguilles (rock needles), and sparkling tarns.

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TERRAIN

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PHOTO: ONFOKUS@ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM

Walk the “high level path” from Chamonix to Zermatt.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: CHAMONIX

Arrive and transfer to Chamonix, France, located at the base of Mont Blanc (15,781 feet).

Meet your guides and group at the hotel for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: CHAMONIX TO ARGENTIÈRE Enjoy a gentle introductory hike with spectacular views over the Mont Blanc range.

Our hike along the Grand Balcon Sud offers some of the best photo opportunities of Mont Blanc, the Mer de Glace, and the Aiguilles, or rock needles, of the Chamonix Valley. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1000/3500 ft.

DAY 3: ARGENTIÈRE TO TRIENT Today we climb to the border between Switzerland and France. Overnight in the tiny hamlet of Trient. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3500/3000 ft.

DAY 4: TRIENT TO CHAMPEX Enjoy awesome views of the Rhone Valley as we find our way through high alpine meadows. Descend through a gorgeous side valley to the lovely little resort village of Champex and our Swiss chalet. Distance: 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2300/4000 ft.

DAY 5: CHAMPEX TO CABANE DU MONT-FORT ** Transfer to Verbier. Hike to the Cabane du Mont-Fort (8,061 feet). Distance: 4 miles.

Elevation gain: 860 ft.

DAY 6: VERBIER TO PRAFLEURI HUT** Hike through a remote alpine environment to the base of the Rosablanche (10,945 feet). Overnight at the Cabane Prafleuri (8,734 feet). Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3000/2340 ft.

DAY 7: PRAFLEURI HUT TO AROLLA** A short trip up to the Col de Roux offers great views of the terrain to follow. Descend to the banks of the Lac Des Dix, where we follow a new trail to the Col Reidmatten, or Pas des Chevres. Climb to the Col and enjoy a relatively gentle descent into the tiny village of Arolla. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500/4450 ft.

DAY 8: AROLLA TO LA SAGE

A spectacular hike lies ahead with views of Mont Collon, L’Evêque, the Pigne d’Arolla, and the Aiguilles Rouges. Descend to the little village of La Sage with its blackened timber homes. Overnight in an antique hotel. Distance: 10 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 2800/3200 ft.

DAY 9: LA SAGE TO ST. LUC Descend to the head of the Val d’Anniviers and transfer to St. Luc. Overnight in a special country inn filled with antiques and old-world charm. Distance: 11 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 4800/4500 ft.

DAY 10: ST. LUC TO GRUBEN

Enjoy views back to the Aiguilles Rouges and the Dent d’Hérens, and forward to the peaks above Zermatt: the Matterhorn, Obergabelhorn, Dent Blanche, and Weisshorn. Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3000/3200 ft.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

July 4 – 15 Price: $6,600 (single +$680) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

Late June – Mid September Price: $7,830 (single +$680)

†Price based on a group of four.

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Late June – Mid September Price: $3,050 (single +$680)

DETAILS

• 11 nights, 12 days guided ** • 9 nights, 10 days self-guided • 4 first-class hotels, 2 nights charming country inns, 2 nights simple inns, 1 night simple berghaus with shower on hall, and 2 nights mountain huts.

• Breakfast and dinner daily on guided tour.

Self-guided tour, no dinner in Chamonix.

• Luggage transfers Guided only, SelfGuided extra charge for luggage transfer • Gateway: Geneva

DAY 11: GRUBEN TO ZERMATT

Follow a medieval trading route with views of the Mischabel range and the peaks of the Berner Oberland. Transfer to Zermatt beneath the Matterhorn.

Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3500/3200 ft.

DAY 12: DEPART

PHOTOS: SVANAERSCHOT©-DEPOSIPHOTOS.COM, RWGUIDE©

SWITZERLAND Verbier Trient

FRANCE

Argentière

Mer de Glace

Chamonix

Gruben

St. Luc Cabane du Mont-Fort

Cabane Lac des Dix Prafleuri Champex

Lac de Moiry

Weisshorn

La Sage Arolla

Dom

Zermatt

Matterhorn

Dufourspitze

ITALY

Mont Blanc *All ground transportation between Chamonix and Zermatt included during Guided tour. Guided tour offers luggage transfer daily except at berghaus and huts. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.**Self-Guided tours do not go to Cabane du Mont-Fort or Cabane Prafleuri. We offer limited luggage transfers at an extra cost on Self-Guided tours and there is no dinner in Chamonix on Self-Guided treks.

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“Our guides were very knowledgeable, seemed to have everything except the kitchen sink in thier back packs, including a sense of humor.”

– Zane T.

EUROPE

SLOVENIA

E

nchanting, or perhaps intoxicating, might be the best word to describe the Julian Alps of Slovenia. It most definitely is a mountain land all its own. Bordering Italy, Austria, Croatia, and the Adriatic Sea, this rugged country beckons with dominating mountains, sun-drenched seaboards, alluring villages, and a captivating culture. Triglav, Slovenia’s tallest peak, reigns supremely and delights hikers with an elevation change of more than 7,000 feet above its surrounding valley floors.

TRIP RATINGS

Moderate to challenging hiking up to 11 miles with ascents up to 5,200 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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Hike beneath the mighty Triglav. See other notable peaks like the Škrlatica, Slovenia’s second highest peak, and the Jalovec, often referred to as, “Slovenia’s most beautiful mountain.” Bed down in two mountain huts above tree line. The first hut sits on a ridge below the Triglav peak.

The second hut lies in the heart of the Triglav National Park. Finish the tour on the shores of Lake Bohinj, famous for its clear waters and intoxicating mountain scenery.

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TERRAIN

3 /4 +

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PHOTO: ANTONI PYTEL©-ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM

JULIAN ALPS SUMMIT SERIES Let the enchantment of Slovenia carry you away.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: KRANJSKA GORA

R yder-Walker will provide a taxi transfer from Ljubljana to Kranjska Gora, which is one of the Julian Alps’ most charming villages. Meet your guides and group at the hotel for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: KRANJSKA GORA TO VRANTIC MOUNTAIN Today’s hike takes us on the ridge of Vrantic Mountain and the summit of Cipernik. We wander through an old growth beech forest until distant views of Italian and Austrian peaks appear, only to be upstaged by the imposing Triglav massif itself. Return to Kranjska Gora hotel. Distance: up to 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 3300 ft.

DAY 3: KRANJSKA GORA TO BOVEC Climb into the Tamar Valley. Ascend steeply to Slemenova (Sleme) Špica, a beautiful summit high above the valley. Transfer to the River Soca valley and the charming town of Bovec, situated just east of Triglav National Park. Distance: 7 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 3000/1000 ft.

DAY 4: BOVEC TO ZASAVSKA KOČA Leave Bovec and ascend the Geology Path and an old World War I military road up the Trebiska Valley to Čez Dol. We switchback to the top of the ridge not far from the Triglav summit. On the apex of the ridge is our hut, the Zasavska Koča, offering views over the Valley of the Seven Lakes. A short afternoon outing from the hut to take in the panoramic summit of Malo Lepa perfectly rounds out the day.

Distance: up to 7 miles. Elevation gain: up to 5200 ft.

DAY 5: ZASAVSKA KOČA TO DOM NA KOMNI We head directly for the Veliko Špičje from the hut today. A fantastic trail keeps right on the ridge of the mountain all the way to the summit. Descend to the Valley of the Seven Lakes Hut for lunch. From here enjoy an undulating traverse through rocky terrain and, in a gnome-like forest, to the Dom na Komni, our second and final hut of the trek. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2200/2700 ft.

DAY 6: DOM NA KOMNI TO VOGEL SUMMIT TO UKANC

Enjoy some of the most spectacular mountain views of the Julian Alps, including the magnificent peaks Triglav and Krn. From the saddle of the Kranska Sedlo, we aim high for the summit of Vogel peak. We finish up with a cable car ride down to Ukanc on the shores of Lake Bohinj and our hotel. Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500/1500 ft.

DAY 7: UKANC A return up the Vogel cable car sets us up for a fabulous final summit romp! Big views both of Triglav to the north and as far as the Adriatic Sea to the south keep the interest high all the way to Rodica peak and back. The picnic at the top is sure to be unforgettable! Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2600 ft.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

July 11 – 18 Price: $4,150 (single +$500) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

Late June – Mid September Price: $5,050 (single +$500)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 7 nights, 8 days • 4 nights charming inns with private ensuite.

1 night high mountain home and 2 nights mountain huts all with shared bedrooms and shared bathrooms.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Ljubljana

DAY 8: DEPART Ryder-Walker will provide a taxi transfer to Ljubljana.

AUSTRIA Kranjska Gora

ITALY Mangart

Škrlatica

Jalovec

Razor

PHOTOS: RYDER-WALKER© RYDER-WALKER©

*All ground transportation included during tour. Luggage transfer daily except at mountain huts. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change.

Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

Dom na Komni Hut

SLOVENIA

Triglav

Trenta

Zasavska KoČa Hut Triglav National Park

Ukanc Lake Bohinj

Krn Vogel

Rodica

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“This trek was a thrilling adventure filled with rich cultural experiences. From exploring the villages and Monasteries to reaching the high valleys below the Himalayan peaks, these memories will stay with us forever.”

– Rosalie and John B.

ASIA

INDIA

J

ourney to the summit of the world, Ladakh, India, which rests on the western end of the Himalaya and comprises four mountain ranges: the Great Himalaya, Zanskar, Ladakh, and the Karakorum. It is a maze of enormous snowcapped peaks and is home to the largest glacier outside of the polar regions, the Siachen. Valley heights range between 8,000 and 15,000 feet above sea level while the neighboring summits rise above 25,000 feet.

TRIP RATINGS

Challenging hiking up to 7 hours a day with ascents up to 2,700 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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During our twelve-day exploration of the range, we experience elegant hotels in Delhi and the finest accommodations in Leh, the capital of Ladakh, a vibrant, bustling village with fascinating bazaars, temples, and shrines. While on the trek, we enjoy five-star camping with cutting edge outdoor equipment. The trek is supported by a large ground support staff and ponies. Ryder-Walker guides attend to your every need on and off the trail.

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TERRAIN

4/4

3/4

ESTIVILLML©-ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM

MARKHA VALLEY TREK Travel through the Himalaya’s last frontier.

CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: DELHI

Arrive in Delhi. Meet our representative and transfer to our five-star hotel for a welcome orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: DELHI TO LEH Begin the day with a beautiful flight over the Himalaya to Leh, the capital of Ladakh.

Private transport delivers us to our comfortable hotel. Spend the day sightseeing and acclimatizing in our comfortable mountain home. The small village of Leh offers a variety of sightseeing opportunities, shops, and restaurants.

DAY 3: STOK PALACE/SHEY PALACE/THIKSEY MONASTERY Explore the Indus Valley by jeep. Visit Stok Palace Museum, Shey Palace, and the Thiksey Monastery. Return to Leh to rest, sightsee, and continue acclimatization.

DAY 4: LEH TO SKIU Today, we transfer by jeep to the trailhead. A pleasant walk along the mountainside carries us to the Ganda La pass, situated at 16,339 feet. Continue to Shingo village.

Following an easy walk, we camp at Skiu and visit the Skiu Monastery. Camp at 11,200 feet.

DAY 5: SKIU TO MARKHA A long, but gentle day takes us to the village of Markha, one of the few permanent settlements in the valley. We have the evening to explore the village and share a cup of tea with the locals. Camp at 12,200 feet.

DAY 6: MARKHA TO THACHUNGSTE Visit Hankar Yokma village and the hilltop Umlung Monastery. Enjoy spectacular views from the monastery. Tonight we camp at Thachungtse. Camp at 14,150 feet.

DAY 7: THACHUNGSTE TO NIMALING We climb into a high, narrow valley above Thachungtse. Cross pastures to Nimaling, one of the most beautiful high valleys of Ladakh, which sits at a height of 15,420 feet. On the right side stands the Kangyatse Peak (21,000 feet). This is our highest camp during the tour at 15,000 feet.

DAY 8: NIMALING Rest day in Nimaling with an option to further explore the valley and/or its adjacent high peaks.

DAY 9: NIMALING TO CHOGDO We enjoy a long climb along the mountainside then zigzag up to the Kongmaru La to a height of 16,896 feet, our high point for the tour. Several easy stream crossings add value to today’s spectacular hike. Descend to Chogdo. Camp at 13,560 feet.

DAY 10: CHOGDO TO LEH Continue to Chuskurmo and finish the trek at Shang Sumdo. Jeep transfer to Leh.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

April 20 – May 1 Price: $6,300* (single +$670) Minimum of four people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

April – June, September – October Price: $7,400 (single +$670)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 11 nights, 12 days • One night luxury hotel, 4 nights firstclass hotel, 6 nights high-elevation luxury camping.

• All meals included during camping portion.

Breakfast and dinner included in Delhi and Leh. • Our itinerary allows for appropriate acclimatization before ascending the higher elevations.

DAY 11: LEH Rest and further exploration of Leh. Enjoy the afternoon souvenir shopping. Tonight we enjoy our final night and a delicious celebration dinner.

PHOTOS: NATTAPOOMV©-ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM, RNMITRA ©ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM

DAY 12: DEPART Transfer to Delhi on an early morning flight.

LADAKH

Leh Shey Palace Thiksey Monastery

Ganda La 16,339 feet

Skiu Stok Kangri Hemis Monastery

Markha Thachungste *Luggage transfer daily. All transportation included during tour. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

Nimaling

Chogdo Kongmaru La 16,896 feet Kangyatse

To Delhi

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“Nothing compares to the spiritual journey I found trekking through the breathtaking landscapes in India. The entire trek was grand and left a lasting impression.”

– Terry F.

ASIA

BHUTAN

B

eginning in the vibrant cultural center of Paro, we spend this trip visiting the people and cultural treasures that live within the realm of the mighty Chomolhari. Visit the famous Takstang, “Tiger’s Nest,” a monastic temple built onto a cliff face 2,700 feet above the Paro Valley, and snap photos of the famous dzongs, fortress-like buildings that are unique to the Buddhist kingdoms of Bhutan and Tibet. Before heading into the high country, marvel at the Kyichu Lhakhang, a 7th century temple that

TRIP RATINGS

Challenging hiking up to 12.5 miles and up to 8 hours a day with ascents up to 3,280 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

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is one of the oldest in Bhutan.

Wander through traditional Himalayan settlements where herdsmen graze their yaks on the remote mountain slopes. Follow pristine valleys where forests of rhododendron support exotic animal species like snow leopards and Himalayan blue sheep. Ascend rugged mountain passes with views of Chomolhari, Tserim Gang and Masagang.

EFFORT

COMFORT

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TERRAIN

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PHOTO: KATIEKK©-DEPOSITPHOTO.COM

THIMPHU, LINGZHI, LAYA TREK Explore the hidden kingdom at the top of the world.

CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 14: GASA TSHACHU TO PUNAKHA The drive today to our hotel in Punakha is about four hours on a dirt road. We visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong along the way.

Sleeping elevation: 4,265 ft.

DAY 2: PARO TO TIGER’S NEST TO THIMPHU Visit Taktsang, the Tiger’s Nest Temple. This magical temple clings to a vertical granite cliff 2,625 ft. above the valley. In the afternoon, we sponsor a special Buddhist prayer ceremony at the beautiful 1200-year-old Kyichu Lhakhang Temple to bring us good luck for the rest of the journey. Sleeping elevation: 7,550 ft.

DAY 15: PUNAKHA TO THIMPHU We begin with a drive to the capital, Thimphu, where we visit the National Memorial Chorten (monument), the Textile Museum, Folk Heritage Museum, Takin Zoo, National Library, and Handicrafts Emporium.

In the evening we visit the Tashicho Dzong.

Sleeping elevation: 7,545 ft.

DAY 1: TRANSFER FROM BANGKOK OR DELHI TO PARO

Our guides meet your flight and escort you to the hotel. Flight arrives midday. In the afternoon visit the National Museum and the Paro Dzong. Sleeping elevation: 7,220 ft.

DAY 3: THIMPHU TO BARSHONG Today’s trail follows the Thimphu Chu river through breathtakingly beautiful

rhododendron forests and past cascading waterfalls. The valley path gradually ascends to the ruins of Barshong Dzong and on to our camp for the night on the riverside.

Distance: 9.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2100/950 ft. Sleeping elevation: 11,485 ft.

DAY 4: BARSHONG TO SHODU

The trail continues to follow the Thimphu Chu. As we ascend, snowcapped mountain peaks in the distant horizon come into view. After passing the junctions of Paro Valley and Shodu Valley, we camp for the night. Distance: 11.25 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 1640/330 ft. Sleeping elevation: 12,795 ft.

DAY 5: SHODU TO LINGZHI We cross the first of the many passes including Yalila Pass at an elevation of 16,043 ft. Enjoy views of Chomolhari, Tserim Gang, and Masagang on a clear day. Tonight we stay in the highland village of Lingzhi. Distance: 12.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3250 ft. Sleeping elevation: 12,795 ft.

DAY 6: LINGZHI REST DAY Today is a rest day.

DAY 7: LINGZHI TO GOKU LA BASE We begin today’s shorter hike by visiting the Lingzhi Dzong, built on a commanding hill by the Shabdrung in the 1600s. We also visit the dramatic village of Gangyul, surrounded by a natural amphitheater of cliffs. Tonight we camp in the tiny, windy village of Chebisa. Distance: 7.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1120/790 ft. Sleeping elevation: 12,795 ft.

DAY 8: GOKU LA BASE TO TSHERINGYANGU We cross over Goku La pass at 14,272 ft. and descend into a stunning rhododendronfilled valley before ascending over the Jari La pass at 15,575 ft. From the pass, it’s all downhill into the picturesque valley of Tsharijatha, followed by a small climb to our camp at Tsheringyangu. Distance: 11.25 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2790/2100 ft. Sleeping elevation: 13,125 ft.

DAY 9: TSHERINGYANGU TO LIMITHANG Today’s hike is a strenuous trek over the Sinchey La, the highest pass on our trek at 16,420 ft. Descending to Limithang, we see the snow-covered peak of Gangchenta, elevation 22,441 ft. and the glacially carved Gangchenta Valley. Gangchenta means Great Tiger Mountain. Distance: 11.25 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3280/3600 ft.

Sleeping elevation: 12,795 ft.

DAY 10: LIMITHANG TO LAYA We hike mostly downhill today as we make our way along a narrow, winding river valley and through a densely forested region. Enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Gangchhenta and Mt. Masagang. Tonight’s camp is in a village paddy field.

Distance: 6.25 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 330/655 ft. Sleeping elevation: 12,470 ft.

DAY 11: LAYA REST DAY Explore the village of Laya. An optional day hike is offered.

DAY 12: LAYA TO CHAMPSA We begin with a two-hour hike to Taktsimakhang, a small army check post. The trail from here winds up and down along the river valley of Mo Chhu, with views of the raging river, feeder streams, and waterfalls. Our campsite is in Champsa just below Bari-la pass. Distance: 12.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1640/3280 ft. Sleeping elevation: 10,825 ft.

DAY 13: CHAMPSA TO TSHACHU After the last climb of the Laya Gasa Trek, Bari La (12,270 ft.), the trail descends all the way to Gasa village (9,088 ft.), with the first restaurants since we started from Drukgyel Dzong. It’s an hour’s hike up to the Gasa Tsachu (hot springs), one of the most popular hot springs in Bhutan. Distance: 4.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1475/3935 ft. Sleeping elevation: 8,200 ft.

DAY 16: DEPART Thimphu to Paro International Airport.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

October 22 – November 5 Price: $11,270 * (single +$1,650) Minimum of four people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

April – June, September – October Price: $13,270 (single +$1,650)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 15 nights, 16 days • 2 nights luxury hotels, 2 nights first-class hotels, and 11 nights in first-class, highelevation camping.

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner while camping.

Breakfast and dinner in Paro and Thimphu.

• Gateway: Bangkok and Delhi (visa required)

TIBET

Jichu Drake

Jangothang Base Camp

Chomolhari

Thangthanka Yaktsa Samba Camp

Drugyel Dzong

Thongbu

Taktsang Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Paro

Thimphu Simtokha Dzong

*Luggage transfer daily. Ground transportation from Paro to Paro included. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

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“The trails and scenery were just ideal.

Each day we had perfect postcard weather too.

Lakes, glaciers, Roman cart paths, fields full of grazing cows and wildflowers were just some of the things we passed as we walked along each day.”

– Kathryn L.

EUROPE

MATTERHORN TREK

T

he highest mountains in Western Europe, the Pennine Alps, offer hikers an opportunity to explore a spectacular alpine world. This itinerary starts and finishes beneath the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the world. The tour also circumnavigates the Monte Rosa massif, the Alps’ second highest peak.

In Macugnaga, Italy, we are treated to perhaps the Alps’ most spectacular

TRIP RATINGS

Challenging hiking up to 12 miles with ascents up to 4,700 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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mountain view, the east face of the Monte Rosa, which is truly Himalayan in proportion rising 10,000 vertical feet above the valley floor.

Ryder-Walker offers the Matterhorn Trek from Cervinia, Italy, to Zermatt, Switzerland, in an eight-day trip. We visit five towns in Italy and two in Switzerland, beginning and finishing the tour at the base of the majestic Matterhorn on opposite sides of the Swiss/Italian border.

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TERRAIN

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PHOTO: SCSTOCK©-ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM

Ascend the rugged border country of Italy and Switzerland.

CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: BREUIL-CERVINIA Meet your guides and fellow guests in Breuil-Cervinia at a well-appointed hotel at the base of the Matterhorn.

DAY 2: BREUIL-CERVINIA TO AYAS-CHAMPOLUC Today we ascend to the Col de Nana beneath the Grand Tournalin, and descend to the idyllic hamlet of St. Jacques. We continue on to Champoluc where we overnight in one of the most unique hotels in the Alps. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3000/3560 ft.

DAY 3: AYAS-CHAMPOLUC TO GRESSONEY-LA-TRINITÉ Climb to the herder’s settlement of Cuneaz and ascend from there to the Pentacol and the Col Pinter. Enter the Walser stronghold of the Val di Gressoney beneath the magnificent Lyskamm, one of the most powerful peaks in the Alps. Walk past ancient Walser farms to the medieval hamlet of Gressoney St. Jean and on to our excellent hotel on the edge of town. Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4000/3745 ft.

DAY 4: GRESSONEY-LA-TRINITÉ TO ALAGNA Ascend to Lake Gabiet and on to the Col d’Olen. At the pass we enter into the magical Val Sesia and look down to Alagna nearly 6,000 feet below. Descend, with help from a cable car, through meadows and ancient Walser villages and farms to a place that time forgot. Overnight in the finest hotel in Alagna. Distance: up to 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4000/up to 5000 ft.

DAY 5: ALAGNA TO MACUGNAGA Hike over the Turlo Pass, the scene of many a World War I skirmish. Follow a Roman road to the historic village of Macugnaga, nestled beneath the staggering 10,000foot east face of the Monte Rosa. Overnight in a charming three-star hotel in the center of the village. Distance: 12 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4700/4880 ft.

DAY 6: MACUGNAGA TO SAAS FEE A cable car aids our ascent to a point near the Swiss border at the Monte Moro pass. Descend through glacier scoured fields of granite with the occasional cable for help. Continue on foot or by bus to Saas Almagell and then up on foot to Saas Fee. Rest in an outstanding hotel in the center of this charming village. Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 900/2180 or 3920 ft.

DAY 7: SAAS FEE TO ZERMATT Depart Saas Fee on one of the great Höhenwege, high level paths, of the Alps.

Travel beneath cascading glaciers and remote, uninhabited valleys as we make our way to Grächen, a sparkling village on a bench high above the Mattertal. Van transfer to Zermatt to celebrate our achievements in one of the town’s finest hotels.

Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2500/2100 ft.

DAY 8: ZERMATT Your guides choose a day hike for the group today. Sightseeing is another option in the lively town of Zermatt.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

August 4 – 12 Price: $5,700 (single +$800) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

July – Early September Price: $7,150 (single +$800)

†Price based on a group of four

SELF-GUIDED

July – Early September Price: $3,350 (single +$800)

DETAILS

• 8 nights, 9 days • 8 nights first-class hotels and charming country inns.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Milan and Torino

DAY 9: DEPART

PHOTOS:VENCAVOLRAB ©-ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM, RYDER-WALKER GUIDE©

SWITZERLAND

Saas Fee

Weisshorn

Tête Blanche

Zermatt Matterhorn

Dent d’Hérens *All ground transportation between Cervinia and Zermatt included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

Dom

Gornergletscher Breithorn Monte Rosa

Macugnaga

Breuil-Cervinia

Champoluc

Gressoney

Alagna

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“Spending eight days in a new environment with all the birds, flowers, geology, and wildlife was our favorite part of the trip. And all the locals were welcoming.”

– Mark S.

EUROPE

ICELAND

I

celand’s beauty is simply overwhelming with its immense glaciers and endless fjords, unspoiled wilderness areas waiting to be explored, clean icy seas where whales surface, volcanic cliffs with one of the biggest bird colonies in the northern hemisphere, geysers, active volcanoes, and ancient fishing villages.

Beginning in Iceland’s progressive capital Reykjavik, our trip leaders whisk you away to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, which is known for its lush fjords, crackling sulphur lava fields, wild sand-strewn beaches, and haunting volcanic peaks. Expect to hike beneath the ice-capped

TRIP RATINGS

Hiking in the arctic tundra and the lack of well traveled footpaths make this a challenging trek with hikes up to 13 miles with ascents of up to 3,500 ft.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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Snæfellsjökull, a glacier that was immortalized in Jules Verne’s tale, Journey to the Center of the Earth. Cross Breidafjörður by ferry and fill up your cameras while hiking along Látrabjarg, a 14 km long, volcanic cliff, one of Iceland’s natural wonders and home to thousands of sea birds, including puffins. Our adventure in Iceland would not be complete without exploring the now deserted Hornstrandir peninsula, famous for subarctic hiking. As one of Europe’s last true wilderness areas, it provides the perfect destination for spotting arctic foxes, seals, whales, and teeming bird life.

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TERRAIN

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PHOTO: SHAIITH ©-ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM

THE REMOTE WESTFJORDS Lose yourself in the unspoiled wilderness of Western Iceland.

CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: REYKJAVIK TO SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA

Meet your trip leaders in Reykjavik and transfer by van to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the setting for Jules Verne’s, Journey to the Center of the Earth. Shuttle ride: approximately 3.5 hours.

DAY 2: SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA Snæfellsjökull National Park offers a variety of trails for every level hiker. Expect to hike beneath the glacier peak of Snæfellsjökull and enjoy endless views over black lava beaches. Shuttle: approximately 30 minutes each way. Distance: up to 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 3500 ft.

DAY 3: SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA TO WESTFJORDS Connect by van and ferry to the famous Westfjords, Iceland’s most spectacular region. The ferry across from Stykkishólmur to Brjánslækur is a great opportunity to spot wildlife while enjoying glimpses of Snæfellsjökull in the south. From Brjánslækur, shuttle to Rauðasandur, a remote beach which is famous for its striking reddish-sand. Hike from there to Keflavìk following the cliff band at Brekkuhlìð.

Meet the van for a short transfer to Patreksfjörður. Shuttle: morning ride 2 hours by van and ferry. Distance: up to 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 1300/600 ft.

DAY 4: L ÁTRABJARG CLIFF Shuttle by van to Látravatn and begin your approach to the Látrabjarg cliff, one of Iceland’s natural wonders. Extending for approximately 9 miles along the coast and ranging from 131 ft. to 1312 ft., the dramatic cliffs are mobbed by nesting sea birds.

We come into arm’s reach of puffins, razorbills, guillemots, cormorants, and gulls.

Return to Patreksfjörður. Shuttle: 1.5 hours each way. Distance: up to 10 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 1750/1840 ft.

DAY 5: PATREKSFJÖRÐUR TO ÍSAFJÖRÐUR Start today with a drive across the Westfjords to Ísafjörður, the gateway town for the famous Hornstrandir Peninsula. We stop at natural hot springs as well as Dynjandi, the biggest waterfall in northwestern Iceland. Shuttle: 3.5 hours. Distance: up to 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1200 ft.

DAY 6: HORNSTRANDIR PENINSULA Transfer by boat across the gorgeous Ísafjördur fjord to Hesteyri, a hamlet on the deserted Hornstrandir peninsula. Enjoy a stunning hike to the northern shore of Hornstrandir. We spend the night at the Old Doctor’s House. No luggage tonight.

Expect shared accommodations/bathrooms. Shuttle: 1 hour ferry. Distance: up to 13 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2100 ft.

DAY 7: HORNSTRANDIR PENINSULA TO ÍSAFJÖRÐUR Today we venture out and explore the farthest northwest point of Hornstrandir.

Enjoy vast views of sheer endless fjords and the Drangajökull glacier. Look for seals, whales, arctic foxes, and many different types of birds. Return to Ísafjörður by ferry in the afternoon and celebrate the last evening in Iceland. Shuttle: 1 hour ferry.

Distance: up to 12 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1650 ft.

DAY 8: DEPART We recommend a flight from Ísafjörður to Reykjavik. There are usually two connections each day.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

June 27 – July 4 Price: $5,850* (single +$780) Minimum of four people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

June – September Price: $7,570 (single +$780)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 7 nights, 8 days • 6 nights in B&Bs and hotels in fishing villages plus 1 night in simple hut (expect shared bedrooms & bathrooms) • Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Ísafjörður to Reykjavik outbound.

Hesteyri Ísafjörður

PHOTOS: RYDER-WALKERGUIDE©

Patreksfjörður

*All ground transportation and boat transfers between Reykjavik and Ísafjörður included during tour. Luggage transfer daily except for night six. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities. Please be aware that due to Iceland’s vastness and lack of public transportation, daily van and/or ferry rides occur. Times stated above are estimates.

ICELAND

Hellnar

Reykjavik

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“The guides on our Eiger Trek were professional, caring, friendly and had a flexible approach.

Companionship. Enthusiasm.”

– Michael G.

EUROPE

EIGER TRAIL

T

he Bernese Oberland in central Switzerland is one of the most stunning mountain ranges on earth. High, glaciated peaks and vertical rock walls ascend thousands of feet above tumbling waterfalls, pristine valleys, and flower-filled meadows.

Our nine-day hiking tour begins on the west side of the Berner Oberland in the fashionable resort village of Gstaad. Hike over airy

TRIP RATINGS

Challenging hiking up to 10.5 miles with ascents up to 4,150 feet.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

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mountain ridgelines, like the Wasserngrat and Ammertenpass. Cross the lofty Hohtürli Pass and drop into the remote and mysterious Kiental. Climb over the Sefinenfurgge with views over Europe’s most famous mountains, the Eiger (13,025 feet), Mönch (13,474 feet), and Jungfrau (13,642 feet). Hike beneath the Eigernordwand, the vertical north face of the Eiger, with close up views of its dramatic face.

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TERRAIN

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PHOTO: JUNGFRAU SARMOHO ©-ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM

Wander beneath the 6,000-foot wall of the Eiger.

CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: GSTAAD

Meet your guides and group for dinner in a lovely, four-star hotel in Gstaad.

DAY 2: GSTAAD TO LENK Begin the next morning with a boost to the fabulous Wasserngrat. Wander through enchanting meadows and limestone outcrops with superb views of the emerging glaciated peaks of the Oberland. Descend to idyllic Lenk by cable car. Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3700/3310 ft. (without lift). Distance: 7.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 1890/1500 ft. (with lift).

DAY 3: LENK TO ENGSTLIGENALP We begin today’s hike by the raging headwaters of the Simme as we climb to the remote Ammertenpass. After an airy crossing, we descend into the hanging valley of Engstligenalp to our berghaus for the night. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/ loss: 3400/1600 ft.

DAY 4: ENGSTLIGENALP TO KANDERSTEG Our journey today begins with a hike to a lovely ridge beside the Tschingellochtighorn.

We descend to the Schwärtzgratli and continue to the atmospheric Berghotel Schwarenbach. An afternoon ride on the Sunnbüehl cable car is one option for our descent or we follow pleasant carriage roads to Kandersteg. Distance 9 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 3000 ft.

DAY 5: KANDERSTEG TO GRIESALP This morning we enter the very heart of the high peaks of the Oberland with a scenic gondola ride out of Kandersteg to the Oeschinensee. Pass through the spectacular Hothürli, meaning “high little door” in Swiss German, to enter into the remote and lush village of Kiental. Distance 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3900/4445 ft. (with lift).

DAY 6: GRIESALP TO MÜRREN Today we ascend out of the remote and lovely Kiental, a pastoral gem beneath the impressive walls of the Blümlisalp massif, then cross the challenging Sefinenfurgge.

Here begin glorious views of the Eiger as we descend toward the Lauterbrunnen Valley and our stay in Mürren. Distance: 10.5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 4150/3400 ft.

DAY 7: MÜRREN TO WENGEN We enjoy a long ramble down the Lauterbrunnen Valley and view the thundering falls and the vestiges of pastoral culture in this picture-perfect valley. Ascend a remote and beautiful valley to Wengen, perched opposite Mürren. Distance: 9 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 1800/3200 ft.

DAY 8: WENGEN TO GRINDELWALD A most classic ramble lies before us today as we cross the Kleine Scheidegg, the saddle beneath the infamous Eiger Nordwand (north wall). Descend into Grindelwald beneath the 5900 ft. north face of the Eiger. Distance: 10.5 miles.

Elevation gain/loss: 3860/2800 ft.

DAY 9: DEPART

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

August 14 – 22 Price: $5,850 (single +$780) Minimum of two people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

Late June – Mid September Price: $7,350 (single +$780)

†Price based on a group of four.

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Late June – Mid September Price: $3,750 (single +$780)

DETAILS

• 8 nights, 9 days • 7 nights charming country inns and first class hotels plus 1 night simple berghaus with shower in hall.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateway: Zurich

PHOTOS: JANOKA82 ©-ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM, RYDERWALKERGUIDE©

Interlaken

SWITZERLAND

Wengen

Grindelwald

Mürren

Eiger Mönch

Schilthorn

Griesalp Kandersteg

Gstaad Lenk

Engstligenalp

Jungfrau

Oeschinensee

Doldenhorn

Aletschgletscher

Breithorn

Wildstrubel *All ground transportation between Gstaad and Grindelwald included during tour. Luggage transfer daily except at berghauses. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

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“Hiking with our group was a fantastic experience. The stunning landscapes and shared laughter made every step memorable and the guides did an amazing job.”

– Janie G.

EUROPE

NORWAY

THE ISLANDS OF LOFOTEN Unlock the treasures of Norway’s mountains and fjords.

TRIP RATINGS

Challenging hiking and technically challenging terrain, hiking up to 10 miles with ascents up to 3,000 feet. (Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

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Austvågøya. Traveling by sea kayak (no experience necessary) and by foot, we paddle to secluded beaches, hike across remote mountain tops, and walk through tiny hamlets with colorful wooden fishing cottages perched at the water’s edge.

Whether it’s hiking across the summits of Kollfjellet, Merraflestinden and Munken, or whale watching from the harbor in Reine, one of the most beautiful seaside villages in the world, we witness the most revered landscapes in all of Norway.

EFFORT

COMFORT

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TERRAIN

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PHOTO:RYDERWALKER©

E

scape from the crowds as you explore the Lofoten archipelago, a rugged island chain lying 122 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Bathed by the light of the midnight sun and rising out of the Norwegian Sea like a fortress wall, the 4,000-foot granite peaks of Lofoten will mesmerize you with their craggy summits, lovely jade meadows, and unforgettable views of Norway’s sparkling fjords.

Beginning in Henningsvær, our eight-day hiking tour of Norway connects tiny villages on the islands of Moskenesøya, Flakstadøya and

CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: HENNINGSVÆR Travel independently to Oslo and then fly to Svolvær. There is one afternoon RyderWalker shuttle offered from Svolvær to the hotel in Henningsvær. Other arrivals will Independently transfer by taxi to the hotel. Meet the group and your guide(s) in the hotel lobby at 7 pm for cocktails, orientation, and dinner.

DAY 2: HENNINGSVÆR Depending on weather, the guides pick a suitable warm-up hike for the group near Henningsvær. Enjoy a refreshment at the climber’s cafe after the hike and then return to the hotel. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 1600 ft.

DAY 3: HENNINGSVÆR TO NUSFJORD

Shuttle to the trailhead near Saupstad and hike to Unstad, a stunning village famous for its cinnamon buns and Arctic surfing. Enjoy views of Lofoten’s dramatic landscapes. Transfer to Nusfjord, one of most picturesque and best preserved fishing villages in Lofoten. Spend the next two nights in refurbished nineteenth century seaside rorbuer cottages. Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 3000 ft.

DAY 4: NUSFJORD – NESLAND Following an old fisherman’s trail, we hike directly from Nusfjord to the village of Nesland. The trail meanders along the shoreline, allowing for stunning views of mainland Norway. Return via the same route and enjoy another night in Nusfjord.

Distance: 6 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 2500 ft.

DAY 5: NUSFJORD TO REINE In the morning, we transfer by van to Reine and then connect by private boat into Kjerkfjorden to hike to Horseidvika, another stunning beach on the north shore of the archipelago. Depending on weather conditions, we can continue on to a mountain saddle with expansive views across the fjords. Return to Reine, where we are accommodated at authentic rorbuer cottages for the following three nights.

Distance: up to 8 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 2500 ft.

DAY 6: REINE – MUNKEBU After a short transfer to the village of Sorvågen, we hike over three peaks to reach our lunch spot at Munkebu. Enjoy 360-degree views of Lofoten and its many fjords as we continue our hike to Forsfjorden. Return to Sakrisøy by private boat and relax in your cozy, waterfront rorbuers. Distance: up to 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 3000 ft.

DAY 7: REINE – HELLSEGGA PEAK Transfer by private boat to the very south-western tip of the archipelago and hike from sea level to Hellsegga at 1,949 feet. Hellsegga is the highest peak on the southwest end of Lofoten, and it gives us the chance to view the most southern islands of the Norwegian archipelago, Værøy and Røstlandet. Return to Reine to celebrate the last night in Lofoten. Distance: 5 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 2200 ft.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

June 18 – 25 Price: $6,950* (single +$950)

Minimum of four people required to run this tour.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

June – September Price: $8,950 (single +$950)

†Price based on a group of four.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DETAILS

• 7 nights, 8 days • 5 nights historic fishing cottages and 2 nights charming inns.

• Breakfast and dinner daily.

• Gateways: Arrival, Oslo to Bodø to Svolvær. Departure, Leknes to Bodø to Oslo

DAY 8: DEPART The closest airport with connections to Bodø/Oslo is Leknes. There will be one RyderWalker shuttle for those catching noon to early afternoon departures from Leknes. It’s a 45-minute drive. Other departures will independently taxi transfer to Leknes airport.

/

Nordtotinden

NORWAY

PHOTOS: RYDERWALKER©, WIRESTOCK©-DEPOSITPHOTO.COM

Norwegian Sea

Henningsvær

Nusfjord Munken

Merraflestinden Kollfjellet

Hellsegga

Reine *All ground transportation between Svolvær/Henningsvær and Reine ­is included during tour. Luggage transfer daily. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change. Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hiker’s abilities.

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93

“Nepal is one of the few remaining sanctuaries of Tibetan Buddhism and one of the most remote places on earth.”

– Stephen B.

ASIA

NEPAL

N

ow is your chance to step back in time and follow the ancient caravan route through summer nomad camps and isolated villages to the last intact walled city in the world — Lo Manthang, capital of this mysterious kingdom.

Departing from the trading town of Jomsom (9,000 ft), the trek begins in the world’s deepest valley, where the Kali Gandaki River winds its way between the towering 26,000-foot massifs of the Annapurna range to the east and the magnificent Dhaulagiri to the west.

From Jomsom, we journey to Upper Mustang where untouched

TRIP RATINGS

Moderately challenging hiking at high elevation.

(Trip rating descriptions found on page 10.)

EFFORT

COMFORT

94 RY D E R WA L K E R .C O M | 8 8 8 . 5 8 6 . 8 3 6 5

Himalayan treasures await. We gain elevation slowly – hiking, camping, and enjoying the incredible scenery on the climb to Lo Manthang (12,500 ft). Spend several days in Lo, then descend on the western side of the valley to Jomsom for our return to Kathmandu.

Your trip leader is professional photographer and explorer, Ace Kvale. Ace is one of the world’s top adventure photographers. He has participated in 27 expeditions to Asia. His work has appeared in dozens of books, films, and magazines, including National Geographic.

2/4

TERRAIN

4/4

4/4

PHOTO; SEASTUDIO©-DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

THE FORBIDDEN KINGDOM OF MUSTANG Follow the ancient caravan route before it disappears.

CHALLENGING HIKING

ITINERARY

DAY 1: KATHMANDU A Ryder-Walker representative will meet your flight and escort you to your five-star hotel. Meet the group and your guide(s) for orientation and dinner.

DAY 2: KATHMANDU You have time to get over jet lag and explore this wild and exotic city before

returning to the sanctuary of your excellent hotel.

DAY 3 : KATHMANDU TO POKHARA Fly to the mid-sized city of Pokhara, a beautiful city perched on the edge of an enormous lake. Spend the night in a well-appointed hotel.

DAY 4: POKHARA TO KAGBENI Meet up with local guides and pony men in Jomsom, the gateway to Mustang and the world’s deepest gorge. Begin walking up the Kali Gandaki Valley, slowly gaining elevation to arrive in Kagbeni.

DAY 5: KAGBENI TO CHUKSANG Hike to Chuksang and camp at the base of the mountains. With a private cook and muleteers, your nights in the Mustang wilderness are certainly wild, but you won’t have to give up your creature comforts.

DATES & PRICING GUIDED TOUR*

May 6 – 23 Price: $7,000* (single +$620)

DAYS 6-7: CHUKSANG TO PAH VALLEY TO TANGYE By now you have acclimatized sufficiently, so full days of hiking through valleys and over jagged moraines follow. Overnight in Pah Valley. Next we visit Tangye. This tiny town lies at the base of an enormous plateau, and after many hours of trekking through desolate landscape, it appears as an emerald in the distance. Locals await you at the end of this leg, excited to witness travelers from the outside world.

Minimum of four people required to run this tour.

DAY 8: TANGYE TO YARA Hike to the village of Yara, home to many of the greatest caves and cave paintings in the region. The village of Yara is yet another emerald embedded in a valley with cliffs as rugged as the teeth of dragons.

NOT OFFERED SELF-GUIDED

DAYS 9-10: YARA TO CHARANG TO LO MANTHANG Continue on to the beautiful village of Charang, with its ancient colorful monastery situated on a cliff above the river. Hike to the medieval walled city of Lo Manthang (12,500 feet). Tour the various temples and monasteries of the capital with art and frescoes, which are equal, if not superior, to the Sistine Chapel in complexity and beauty.

• 17 nights, 18 days • 4 nights five-star hotels, 1 night superior hotel, 5 nights mountain lodges, 7 nights luxury camping.

• All meals included except lunch in Kathmandu.

• Gateway: Kathmandu

DAYS 11-12: LO MANTHANG Explore Lo Manthang and the outlying villages near the border with Tibet, an area with snow leopards, caves, and ancient monasteries that have been continuously occupied for nearly one thousand years.

PRIVATE-GUIDED*

April – June, September – October Price: $8,050 (single +$620)

†Price based on a group of four.

DETAILS

DAYS 13-15: MANTHANG TO CHHOSER TO JOMSOM Travel by car and foot to Chhoser, Chuksang, and Jomsom. Local guides share wild and wonderful stories and myths of the region, which haven’t changed in three millennia.

DAYS 16-17: CHHOSER TO KATHMANDU Fly to Pokhara, then on to Kathmandu and your five-star accommodations. Spend time sightseeing and exploring.

PHOTOS: MAZZZUR©-DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM, JANKOVOY©-DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

DAYS 18: DEPART

Chhoser Charang

TIBET

Lo Manthang

Jakriojagga Lek

Tangye Camp Bhena NEPAL Chucksang Kagbeni Jomsom Dhaulagiri

Ratna Chuli

Annapurna Conservation Area

Nilgiri Annapurna I

*Luggage transfer daily. Transportation included during tour. NOTE: Daily itineraries on all our guided treks are subject to change.

Your guide(s) will make route decisions based on weather and terrain conditions, as well as hikers’ abilities.

Pokhara To Kathmandu

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TRIED-AND-TRUE: SOME OF OUR FAVORITE TREKS

(April–June and September–October) Provence, in particular the medieval hill towns of the Luberon Mountains, offers its visitors a taste of ‘âme du terrain’ — the soul of the terrain.

Walk amongst the vineyards, olive groves, cherry and apple orchards, as well as the famous lavender fields in Provence’s quintessential historic villages situated in the Vaucluse. 7 nights and 8 days. Easy to moderate walking up to 6 miles and ascents up 1500 ft.

Breakfast daily. Dinner day 1 and day 6 only. $3,250 (single +$770)

n COTSWOLDS WAY (March–October) The villages of the Cotswolds are some of the most charming you’ll ever see. Thatch-roofed, golden stone cottages line tiny cobbled streets. The region has been inhabited for at least 6000 years, and there are numerous sites of great archaeological interest along the route. Start/finish villages are Chipping Campden and Bath. 9 nights and 10 days. Easy hiking with negligible ascent/descent, but distances up to 16 miles (can be made shorter). Breakfast only. $3,000 (single +$680)

n SCOTLAND: ROB ROY WAY (March–October) Walk in the footsteps of Rob Roy MacGregor, one of Scotland’s legendary outlaws, and greatest heros. Explore the landscapes of Great Britain, traversing waterside, woodland, and moorland ecosystems.

Discover ancient ruins, including prehistoric stone circles, Roman bridges, and remnants of the Jacobean era along the trails. Stay in charming inns, B&Bs, and fourstar hotels. Distances up to 12.5 miles, assents up to 1800 ft. 8 nights and 9 days. Breakfast daily and dinner 4 nights. $2,990 (single +$660)

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n CAPRI AND THE AMALFI COAST (April–October) Tranquil and enchanting might be the best way to describe this trek. Explore some of the most famous hikes in the region, including the Sentiero del Fortini on the Island of Capri; the Hike of the Gods from Amalfi to Positano, and the Valle dei Mulini above Amalfi where rare ferns and orchids line your path. 6 nights and 7 days. Easy to moderate hiking up to 6.5 miles with ascents up to 3600 ft. Breakfast only. *High season supplement for July and August is $250 per person. $3,350* (single +$740)

n IRELAND’S DINGLE WAY (April–October) Perhaps Ireland’s best walking tour is found in the very southwest of the country on the Dingle Peninsula. Throughout, the well-marked trail uses a latticework of farm roads, back streets of small villages, tracks across barren coastland and beaches, and trails up remote, rolling hills. A moderate trek averaging 12.5 miles daily with one day up to an optional 17 miles. Ascents are minimal – one day just over 2000 ft. 9 nights and 10 days. Breakfast only. $2,640 (single +$590)

n THE LIECHTENSTEIN TRAIL (April–October) The Liechtenstein Trail trek visits Europe’s fourth-smallest country wedged between Austria and Switzerland. This new 46.6-mile trail has you walking through all 11 of the country’s municipalities.

Enjoy hiking below the soaring peaks of the Appenzell Alps as you wind along mountain paths and pristine, village roads. Its rich history shines with hundreds of points of interest along the route, including the capital’s 12th century Vaduz Castle. 7 nights and 8 days.

Up to 12 miles, ascents to 1877 ft. $2,600 (single +$540)

PHOTOS; DAWIDKALISINSKI PHOTOGRAPHY©-ISTOCK.COM, BLUEJAYPHOTO©-ISTOCK.COM, ADOBESTOCK.COM©, SHUTTERSTOCK.COM©, RYDER-WALKER©, DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM©,

n PROVENCE: HILL TOWNS OF THE LUBERON

n CROATIA: THE DALMATIAN COAST

PHOTOS; SHUTTERSTOCK.COM©, BLUEJAYPHOTO©-ISTOCK.COM, ADOBESTOCK.COM©, RYDER-WALKER©, DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM©, MAUDIB©ISTOCK, ADOBESTOCK.COM©

LIECHTENSTEINTORISM©

ONLY OFFERED SELF-GUIDED AND PRIVATE GUIDED

(May–June and September–October) Croatia is a magical place and the culture is one of the most welcoming in the world. This 7 night and 8 day trek has you island hopping, visiting medieval walled cities, exploring Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and touring Split and the UNESCO protected city of Trogir. Islands you will hike on are Korcula, Mljet and Pomena. Enjoy moderate hikes of up to 8 miles with ascents up 1800 ft. Breakfast only. $2,750 (single +$710)

n AUSTRIA: WILDER KAISER MOUNTAIN TREK (June–Mid October) Our hike between the charming villages of the Wilder Kaiser mountains and the Kitzbuhel Alps focuses on gentler daily itineraries and four-star hotels.

Vibrant Austrian meadows link fairytale hamlets offering the most magnificent mix of idyllic wandering with delicious cuisine, and the very finest accommodations.

Visit the picturesque villages of Scheffau and Ellmau showcasing traditional Austrian character. 7 nights and 8 days. Up to 8 miles and ascents up to 2260 ft. $2,765 (single +$520)

n DOLOMITES RIFUGIO TREK (Late June–September) Our point-to-point hiking route through the region traverses from west to east and links not only the most spectacular mountain scenery in the Sciliar, Sassolungo, Puez, and Tofane ranges, but also the most atmospheric and authentic villages and huts along the way. Hike the Sella Pass and ascend to the Forcella Sassolungo, one of the most dramatic passes in the Dolomites.

7 nights and 8 days. Moderate hikes up to 9 miles and ascents up to 3000 ft. $2,305 (single +$400)

n JUNGFRAU LOOP (Mid June–Mid September) See the best highlights of the Berner Oberland in six days.

Picture postcard views surround you in every direction, and the fabulous system of lifts, cable cars, and funiculars makes hiking in this lofty region accessible for families and those wishing a more moderate hiking experience without sacrificing big mountain views, as well as for more ambitious hikers. 5 nights and 6 days. Moderate hiking – up to 9 miles with ascents up 2500 ft. $2,225 (single +$480)

n TUSCANY, ITALY WALKING TOUR (April—October) The Tuscan sun has nurtured one of the most vibrant landscapes on earth. Our route primarily follows the most remote and walkable section of the Via Francigena, one of the great, historic pilgrims’ routes.

Beginning in San Gimignano, fondly referred to as the Manhattan of the Middle Ages, we walk to Colle di Val d’Elsa with multiple landmarks, to the medieval castle of Monteriggioni and finally, the historic city of Siena. 5 nights and 6 days.

Easy terrain with distances up to 12 miles. $1,810 (single +$570)

n BERNER OBERLAND TREK (Late June–Mid September) Classic scenery is the hallmark of the Berner Oberland where the famous trio, the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, dominate not only the landscape, but also the imagination of the traveler. As you link the region’s villages, you traverse high ridges, follow valleys, and climb to a number of high and lonely passes separating the deep and dramatic valleys cutting through the range. 6 nights and 7 days. This is a more strenuous trek with up to 9 miles and ascents up to 4500 ft. $2,475 (single +$540)

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97

n SPANISH MEDITERRANEAN: COSTA BRAVA

n SWISS HAUTE ROUTE

(May–Mid July and Mid August–October) This Ryder-Walker exclusive itinerary explores the undiscovered gems of the Spanish Costa Brava. The variety is incredible and the quality of accommodation and cuisine, exceptional. The trek is a mixture of trails through hidden fishermen’s villages, ancient ruined Iberian settlements, remote beaches and mountainous terrain.

8 nights and 9 days. Moderate hiking with distances up to 9 miles and ascents up to 2800 ft. Dinner all but 3 nights. $3,190 (single +$960)

(May–October) While it is predominantly Italian, Ticino still offers quintessential Swiss landscapes with many valleys, centuries old stone villages, and historic mountain pastures. With multiple summits to bag, your trek encounters the most spectacular mountain scenery, including numerous lake-view sightings as well as snow-dusted peak backdrops. 7 nights and 8 days. Moderate hiking up to 8 miles with ascents up to 2600 ft. $3,070 (single +$610)

n TOUR DU MONT BLANC VITESSE (Mid June–Mid September) If you are limited on time but want to hike the Tour du Mont Banc, we offer the TMB Vitesse (speed in French) which is a shorter version that covers the highlights of our standard tour in five hikes instead of eight. We begin in Courmayeur, Italy and hike around the east side of Mont Blanc, finishing in Chamonix, France. 7 nights and 8 days. Moderate to challenging hiking with up to 11.5 miles with ascents up to 4500 ft. $2,640 (single +$440)

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n TELLURIDE TREK (Mid June–Early October) Majestic snow capped peaks, expansive alpine meadows, tumbling waterfalls, and charming Victorian hotels beckon hikers to explore the San Juan Mountains of Southwestern Colorado; home of Ryder-Walker. From remote valleys to high alpine passes with endless views, you hike beneath the shadows of the resident 14,000 ft. peaks. 7 nights and 8 days. We offer easy, moderate and challenging treks – from 5 miles up to 9 miles with ascents from 1500 ft. up to 3800 ft. Breakfast only. $2,575 (single +$1,210)

n APPENZELL HUT HOP (Late June–October) Exciting hiking characterizes this unusual corner of Switzerland where the trails, punctuated by steel cables, cut steps, and iron pegs to aid the hiker, are carved in the rock. The mountains feature a system of huts and berghauses, all situated within a day of walking from each other. This is a point-to-point circumnavigation of the range known as the Säntis/Churfirsten. 5 nights and 6 days. Challenging hiking and terrain: exposure, drop-offs, chains. Up to 8 miles with ascents up to 3000 ft. No luggage transfers. $1,650 (single +$370) Prices based on double occupancy. Half board and luggage transfers included unless indicated.

PHOTOS: OXICO©-ISTOCKPHOTO.COM,SHUTTERSTOCK.COM©, RYDER-WALKER©, DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

n TICINO: SWISS LAKE DISTRICT

(Late June–Mid September) Explore a spectacular alpine world that takes you from Arolla, beneath the shadow of Mont Collon with its vertical rock walls and snowy summit, across the western Valais to Saas Fee with its tumbling glaciers and towering peaks. The route lies along quiet mountain trails with some rough and remote sections. Enjoy spectacular views of peaks and glaciers. 6 nights and 7 days. A challenging trek with up to 11 miles and ascents up to 4500 ft. Luggage transfers at some locations for an extra cost. $2,525 (single +$680)

2024 SELF-GUIDED, 5-DAY MINI-TREKS n = Easy to Moderate Hiking

n = Moderate to Challenging Hiking

TOUR NAME

n = Challenging Hiking

SEASON

EUROPE n Berner Oberland Trek (page 12) n Chamonix to Champex (page 13) n Swiss Engadine Trek (page 12) n Heart of Austria (page 12) n Italian Dolomites Trek (page 13) NORTH AMERICA n Telluride Trek (page 13)

PRICE PER PERSON

COUNTRIES VISITED

Late June – Early Oct.

$1,760 (single +$290)

Switzerland

Late June – Mid Sept.

$1,590 (single +$200)

France, Switzerland

Mid June – Mid Oct.

$1,945 (single +$245)

Switzerland

Mid June – Sept.

$1,725 (single +$210)

Austria

Mid June – Mid Sept.

$1,950 (single +$380)

Italy

Late June – Early Oct.

$1,700 (single +$370)

USA

(+ single supplement)

2024 SELF-GUIDED, EASYGOING TREKS n = Easy to Moderate Hiking

TOUR NAME EUROPE n Allegra Engadine 8 Days (page 99) n Ambiance Italian Dolomites 7 Days (page 99) n Austria: Mozart Alpine Lakes Walk 6 days (page 99) n Pastoral Berner Oberland 7 Days (page 99) n Slovenia: Waterfalls and Gorges 8 Days (page 99) n Via Ladinia Pastorale 8 Days (page 99)

SEASON

PRICE PER PERSON

COUNTRIES VISITED

June – Oct.

$3,150 (single +$585)

Switzerland

June – Sept.

$3,125 (single +$700)

Italy

Late May – Mid Oct.

$2,775 (single +$400)

Austria

Mid June – Early October

$2,575 (single +$515)

Switzerland

Late June – Mid Sept.

$2,745 (single +$650)

Slovenia

Mid June – Mid Sept.

$3,040 (single +$680)

Italy

n PASTORAL BERNER OBERLAND

n ALLEGRA ENGADINE (June–October) Stay in charming villages.

Follow the gentle paths of the upper and lower Engadine with flowery meadows and glaciated peaks. 7 nights/8 days. Up to 8 miles with ascents up to 2000 ft. $3,150 (single +$585) PHOTOS FROM DOLLARPHOTOCLUB.COM©, ISTOCK.COM©, RYDER-WALKER©, DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM©

(+ single supplement)

n AMBIANCE ITALIAN DOLOMITES (June–September) The Dolomites are one of the most dramatic ranges soaring above rolling meadows, ruins, and onion-domed churches.

A paradise for hikers. 6 nights/7 days. Up to 9 miles and ascents up to 2600 ft. $3,125 (single +$700)

n AUSTRIA: MOZART ALPINE LAKES WALK (Late May–Mid October) Much of the hiking will follow the shores of the Wolfgangsee and Hallstättersee, as well as a charming section out of Bad Ischl along the river Traun.

5 nights/6 days. 8 miles and one ascent up to 1100 ft. $2,775 (single +$400)

(Mid June–Early October) The Jungfrau region is the very heart of the Swiss Alps, and we hike beneath the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau with picture perfect views.

7 nights/8 days. 8.5 up to 10 miles with ascents up to 1800 ft. $2,575 (single +$515)

n VIA LADINIA PASTORALE (Mid June–Mid September) The Pusteria Valley sits on the Italian/Austrian border.

The northern flank is pastoral with walls of limestone. The southern flank is jagged summits. 7 nights/8 days. Up to 8 miles and ascents up to 1600 ft. $3,040 (single +$680)

n SLOVENIA: WATERFALLS AND GORGES (Late June–Mid September) From the tranquil shores of Lake Bohinj, to the shores of Lake Bled, and on to Kranjska Gora, it is Slovenia’s finest week of walking. 7 nights/ 8 days. Up to 8 miles with ascents up 2000 ft. $2,745 (single +$650)

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99

2024 GUIDED TREKS n = Easy to Moderate Hiking

n = Moderate to Challenging Hiking

GUIDED TRIPS MARCH n Argentine Patagonia: The Lakes District (page 60) APRIL n India: Markha Valley Trek (page 82)

n = Challenging Hiking

2023 DATES

GUIDED PRICE Per Person

(+ single supplement)

PRIVATE-GUIDED † Price Per Person (+ single supplement)

COUNTRIES VISITED

March 6 – 15

$7,000* (single +$1350)

$10,650 (single +$1350)

Argentina

April 20 – May 1

$6,300* (single +$670)

$7,400 (single +$670)

India

n Portugal: The Southwestern Scenic Coastal Trek 1 (page 62)

April 30 – May 7

$4,650 (single +$570)

$5,820 (single +$570)

Portugal

MAY n Peru: Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 1 (page 54)

May 1 – 11

$7,100* (single +$1650**)

Call for pricing.

Peru

n Northern Greece: Aegean Sea & Epirus Mtns. (page 46)

May 3 – 12

$6,400* (single +$730)

$7,500 (single +$730)

Greece

n Nepal: The Forbidden Kingdom of Mustang (page 94)

May 6 – 23

$7,000* (single +$620)

$8,050 (single +$620)

Nepal

n England: The Cotswolds (page 24)

May 5 – 15

$5,200 (single +$900)

$6,500 (single +$900)

England

n Sicily: The Aeolian Islands (page 36)

May 15 – 22

$4,650 (single +$660)

$6,080 (single +$660)

Italy

n Sedona, Arizona Trek (page 42)

May 17 – 23

$6,750 (single +$830)

$7,990 (single +$830)

USA

n Scotland: Highlands and Islands (page 32) NEW!

May 19 – 29

$5,800 (single +$800)

$7,000 (single +$800)

Scotland

n Italian Lakes District: Como, Varenna, Menaggio &

May 27 – June 2

$5,100 (single +$700)

$6,200 (single +$700)

Italy

May 27 – June 3

$5,000 (single +$600)

$5,570 (single +$600)

Montenegro, Croatia

Bellagio (page 58) n M ontenegro and Croatia: Highlights of the Adriatic Coast (page 40) JUNE n Cornwall England: Cornish Coastal Path (page 28)

June 4 – 14

$5,350 (single +$800)

$6,650 (single +$800)

England

n Italian Dolomites Trek 1 (page 48)

June 11 – 18

$5,750 (single +$800)

$6,550 (single +$800)

Italy

n Norway: The Islands of Lofoten (page 92)

June 18 – 25

$6,950* (single +$950)

$8,950 (single +$950)

Norway

n Highlights of Italy: Courmayeur, Cogne, Champoluc (page 44)

June 19 – 28

$5,150* (single +$620)

$6,160 (single +$620)

Italy

n Tour du Mont Blanc 1 (page 72)

June 19 – June 28

$5,850 (single +$650)

$7,150 (single +$650)

France, Italy, Switzerland

n Engadine Women’s Trek: (page 34)

June 20 – 27

$5,150 (single +$620)

$6,400 (single +$620)

Switzerland

n Wales: Countryside, Castles & Coastline (page 26) NEW!

June 20 – 30

$5,850 (single +$800)

$7,050 (single +$800)

Wales

n Iceland: The Remote Westfjords (page 88)

June 27 – July 4

$5,850* (single +$780)

$7,570 (single +$780)

Iceland

n H ighlights of Switzerland: Engadine, Lago Maggiore,

June 30 – July 9

$6,150 (single +$660)

$7,250 (single +$660)

Switzerland

Zermatt (page 22) JULY n Hiker’s Haute Route (page 78)

July 4 – 15

$6,600 (single +$680)

$7,830 (single +$680)

France, Switzerland

n Slovenia: Julian Alps Summit Series (page 80)

July 11 – 18

$4,150 (single +$500)

$5,050 (single +$500)

Slovenia

n Engadine Trek 1 (page 34)

July 15 – 22

$5,150 (single +$620)

$6,400 (single +$620)

Switzerland

n F rench Alps: Chamonix Mont Blanc to Val d’Isère (page 56)

July 22 – 29

$5,450 (single +$650)

$6,400 (single +$650)

France

n H aute Pyrénées Mountain Trek: France to Spain (page 68)

July 24 – 31

$5,900 (single +$650)

$6,450 (single +$650)

France, Spain

AUGUST n Matterhorn Trek (page 86)

Aug. 4 – 12

$5,700 (single +$800)

$7,150 (single +$800)

Italy, Switzerland

n Eiger Trail (page 90)

Aug. 14 – 22

$6,100 (single +$780)

$7,350 (single +$780)

Switzerland

n Engadine Summit Series (page 76)

Aug. 14 – 21

$5,500 (single +$620)

$6,200 (single +$620)

Switzerland

n Italian Dolomites Trek 2 (page 48)

Aug. 25 – Sept. 1

$5,750 (single +$800)

$6,550 (single +$800)

Italy

n Tour du Mont Blanc 2 (page 72)

Aug. 21 – 30

$5,850 (single +$650)

$7,150 (single +$650)

France, Italy, Switzerland

SEPTEMBER n High Peaks of Bavaria and Tyrol (page 50)

Sept. 5 – 12

$5,100 (single +$560)

$6,265 (single +$560)

Germany, Austria

n Dolomiti di Brenta (page 66)

Sept. 6 – 14

$6,300 (single +$1030)

$7,770 (single +$1030)

Italy

n Heart of Austria (page 30)

Sept. 13 – 20

$5,250 (single +$600)

$6,450 (single +$600)

Austria

n Via Ladinia: Heart of the Italian Dolomites (page 64)

Sept. 14 – 21

$5,100 (single +$680)

$6,350 (single +$680)

Italy

n Rocky Mountain High Life: Aspen to Telluride (page 52)

Sept. 22 – 29

$5,700* (single +$780)

$6,960 (single +$780)

USA

n 40th Jubliäum: Engadine Anniversary Trek (page 8) NEW!

Sept. 27 – Oct. 4

$5,850 (single +$750)

$6,800 (single +$750)

Switzerland

n Corsica: French Isle Adventure Trek (page 74) NEW!

Sept. 28 – Oct. 5

$6,500 (single +$700)

$7,600 (single +$700)

France

OCTOBER n N ew Mexico: Santa Fe to Taos (page 38)

Oct. 2 – 9

$6,700 (single +$780)

$7,990 (single +$780)

USA

n Portugal: The Southwestern Scenic Coastal Trek 2 (page 62)

Oct. 5 – 12

$4,650 (single +$570)

$5,820 (single +$570)

Portugal

n Morocco: Atlas Mountains Trek (page 70)

Oct. 9 – 18

$5,550* (single +$720)

$6,400 (single +$720)

Morocco

n Sedona, Arizona Trek (page 42)

Oct. 11 – 17

$6,750 (single +$830)

$7,990 (single +$830)

USA

n Bhutan: Thimphu, Lingzhi, Laya Trek (page 84)

Oct. 22 – Nov. 5

$11,270* (single +$1,650)

$13,270 (single +$1650)

Bhutan

NOVEMBER n Peru: Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 2 (page 54)

Nov. 3 – 13

$7,100* (single +$1650**)

Call for pricing.

Peru

All trips require a minimum of 2 guests to run the tour unless indicated by * which require a minimum of 4 guests. † Price based on a group of four. **Peru has an option for a single traveler to pay +$850 for a single room in Cusco hotel and share a twin bed in all lodges.

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2024 SELF-GUIDED & PRIVATE-GUIDED TREKS n = Easy to Moderate Hiking

n = Moderate to Challenging Hiking

TOUR NAME

n = Challenging Hiking

SEASON

(+ single supplement)

PRICE PER PERSON

PRIVATE-GUIDED † Price Per Person (+ single supplement)

COUNTRIES VISITED

EUROPE AND UK n Appenzell Hut Hop (page 98) 6 Days

Late June – Oct.

$1,650 (single +$370)

$3,865 (single +$370)

Switzerland

n Austria: Wilder Kaiser Mountain Trek (page 97) 8 Days

June – Mid Oct.

$2,765 (single +$520)

$6,390 (single +$520)

Austria

n Berner Oberland Traverse (Website) 9 Days

Late June – Mid Sept.

$3,150 (single +$700)

$7,000 (single +$700)

Switzerland

n Berner Oberland Trek (page 97) 7 Days

Late June – Mid Sept.

$2,475 (single +$540)

$6,490 (single +$540)

Switzerland

n Capri and The Amalfi Coast (page 96) 7 Days

April – June, and Sept. – Oct.

$3,350 (single +$740)

$7,000 (single +$740)

Italy

n Cotswold Way (page 96) 10 Days

March – Oct.

$2,750 (single +$670)

$5,580 (single +$670)

England

n Croatia: The Dalmatian Coast (page 97) 8 Days

May – June and Sept. – Oct.

$2,750 (single +$710)

$5,600 (single +$710)

Croatia

n Dolomites Rifugio Trek (page 97) 8 Days

Late June – Sept.

$2,215(single +$400)

N/A

Italy

n Dolomiti di Brenta (page 66) 8 Days

Late June, July and Early Sept.

$3,200 (single +$1030)

$7,770 (single +$1030)

Italy

n Eiger Trail (page 90) 9 Days

Late June – Mid Sept.

$3,750 (single +$780)

$7,350 (single +$780)

Switzerland

n Engadine Summit Series (page 76) 8 Days

Late June – Mid Sept.

$3,150 (single +$620)

$6,200 (single +$620)

Switzerland

n Engadine Trek (page 34) 8 Days

Mid June – Mid Oct.

$3,215 (single +$620)

$6,400 (single +$620)

Switzerland

n Heart of Austria (page 30) 8 Days

Mid June – Sept.

$2,950 (single +$600)

$6,450 (single +$600)

Austria

n High Peaks of Bavaria and Tyrol (page 50) 8 Days

June – Sept.

$2,600 (single +$560)

$6,265 (single +$560)

Germany, Austria

n Hiker’s Haute Route (page 78) 10 Days

Late June – Mid Sept.

$3,050 (single +$680)

$7,830 (single +$680)

France, Switzerland

n Ireland’s Dingle Way (page 96) 10 Days

April – Oct.

$2,640 (single +$590)

$5,470 (single +$590)

Ireland

n Italian Dolomites Trek (page 48) 8 Days

Mid June – Mid Sept.

$3,750 (single +$800)

$6,550 (single +$800)

Italy

n Italian Lakes District: Como & Bellagio (page 58) 7 Days

May – Oct.

$3,200 (single +$700)

$6,200 (single +$700)

Italy

n Jungfrau Loop (page 97) 6 Days

Mid June – Mid Sept.

$2,225 (single +$480)

$4,690 (single +$480)

Switzerland

n The Liechtenstein Trail (page 96) 8 Days

April – Oct.

$2,600 (single +$540)

$6,270 (single +$540)

Liechtenstein

n Matterhorn Trek (page 86) 9 Days

July – Early Sept.

$3,350 (single +$800**)

$7,150 (single +$800)

Italy, Switzerland

n P ortugal: The Southwestern Scenic Coastal Trek (page 62)

April – Nov.

$3,200 (single +$570)

$5,820 (single +$570)

Portugal

n Provence: Hill Towns of the Luberon (page 96) 8 Days

April – June, and Sept. – Oct.

$3,250 (single +$770)

N/A

France

n Scotland: Rob Roy Way (page 96) 9 Days

March – Oct.

$2,990 (single +$660)

$5,665 (single +$660)

Scotland

n Spanish Mediterranean: Costa Brava (page 98) 8 Days

May – Mid July and Mid Aug. – Oct.

$3,190 (single +$960)

N/A

Spain

n Swiss Haute Route (page 98) 7 Days

Late June – Mid Sept.

$2,525 (single +$680)

$5,300 (single +$680)

Switzerland

n Ticino: Swiss Lake District (page 98) 8 Days

May – Oct.

$3,070 (single +$610)

$6,490 (single +$610)

Switzerland

n T our du Mont Blanc (page 72) 10 Days

Mid June – Mid Sept.

$3,450 (single +$650)

$7,150 (single +$650)

France, Italy, Switzerland

n T our du Mont Blanc Vitesse (page 98) 7 Days

Mid June – Mid Sept.

$2,640 (single +$430)

$4,900 (single +$430)

France, Italy, Switzerland

n T uscany, Italy: A Path Through History (page 97) 6 Days

April – Oct.

$1,900 (single +$600)

N/A

Italy

n Via Ladinia: Heart of the Italian Dolomites (page 64) 8 Days

Mid June – Mid Sept.

$3,060 (single +$680)

$6,350 (single +$680)

Italy

n Winter Engadine Holiday (website) 8 Days

Jan. – March

$3,505 (single +$570)

N/A

Switzerland

n N ew Mexico: Santa Fe to Taos (page 38) 8 Days

June – October

$4,615 (single +$780)

$7,990 (single +$780)

USA

n T elluride Trek: The Switzerland of America (page 98)

Mid June – Early Oct.

$2,575 (single +$1,210)

$5,870 (single +$1,210)

USA

8 Days

NORTH AMERICA

8 Days

† Private guided pricing is based on a group of four. **Matterhorn solo travelers where no other hikers are joining, are required to cover luggage transfer costs of $1200.”

CURRENCY EXCHANGE ESTIMATES ON ALL TREK PRICING: To be competitive in our pricing we tie the Euro, Swiss Franc and other foreign denominated costs to the value of those currencies at the time of the publication. Note that this does not represent the total cost of the trip since many of our expenses are in dollars, which will not fluctuate. This means that 2023 prices are fixed in the autumn of 2022. It has rarely been necessary to change our prices. However, if there is significant fluctuation in the value of the dollar relative to these currencies we may need to alter the price slightly. If this happens, it will be clearly outlined in the final invoice you will receive approximately 90 days prior to the start of your trip.

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101

A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO CHOOSING THE BEST HIKING SHOES FOR YOUR TREK

S

electing the ideal footwear for your hike is crucial, whether trekking in the European Alps, exploring Moroccan markets, or traversing mountain paths in South America. The right shoes mean the difference between a miserable day with blisters and a joyful journey through breathtaking landscapes. That’s why proper footwear tops our list of essential gear for a Ryder Walker trek. It’s a personalized process, requiring time and consideration for your specific activities. Components, padding, and materials matter, and finding the perfect fit is crucial. Once you’re happily trekking in the right shoes, you’ll realize the effort was worthwhile.

Let’s explore footwear types, materials, support, and we’ll give you tips to help you discover your perfect fit.

PICK YOUR STYLE When packing for a hiking trip, making sure that you have the correct When it comes to hiking footwear, options run the gamut — from superlight breathable trail runners to heavy-duty thick-soled, over-the-ankle boots.

The pair you end up with should reflect the activities you plan to do in them.

Lightweight Shoes in this category are low-cut, breathable and more flexible — designed for day hikes, training runs or short overnight jaunts. Since RyderWalker’s village-to-village tours consist of a series of day hikes that don’t require carrying heavy overnight packs, lightweight hiking shoes or trail runners are appropriate for many of our clients.

Mid-level Designed for light backpacking or more technical hiking, these mid- to high-cut models come with more support and some flexibility. They can better withstand off-trail hiking or obstacles and are not as hard to break in as their stouter counterparts. These are a great option for hikers who: want something sturdier underfoot, are heavier in body type, need extra ankle/ knee support or plan to carry more than a daypack.

Backpackers Designed for carrying heavy loads on multi-day trips, these hulking highcut boots come with high ankle support, stiffer shells and thick soles. This heavy model is most appropriate for dedicated backpackers heading deep into the backcountry. They can definitely be overkill for our trips, but avid backpackers or mountaineers may prefer them. If you go this route, be sure to break them in thoroughly before your trip.

MATERIAL CONSIDERATIONS When shopping for shoes, consider what material is most appropriate for your activity needs: waterproof or breathable, leather or synthetic, insulated or not. Here is a glossary to help navigate materials in hiking shoes.

• Full-grain leather. This refers to thick leather that hasn’t undergone processes like sanding to remove imperfections. Most commonly used in heavy-duty backpacking boots, full-grain leather boots are extremely durable and water resistant, but are not terribly light or breathable, and typically require more break-in time.

• Split-grain leather. Split-grain leather, which is leather that has been “split” into thinner layers, is typically paired with nylon or mesh on mid-level hiking boots. The resulting boots are more breathable, flexible and easier to break in, but because they have more seams, are less durable and waterproof.

• These encompass polyester, nylon and synthetic leather materials, and are found in mid- and light-weight boots. Boots made with synthetics are generally lighter, breathable and faster-drying. But they aren’t as long-lasting.

• Waterproof membranes. This refers to boots made with a shell of waterproof material like Gore-Tex, which keep them well-sealed.

Though they are great in stream-crossings or wet weather, they are less breathable and can be hot.

• Generally, only heavy-duty backpacking or mountaineering boots designed for travel in snow or glaciers come with synthetic insulation.

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FINDING YOUR PERFECT FIT We have arrived at the most important step in your boot-buying process. No matter how durable, flexible or snazzy looking, boots will be worthless if they don’t fit. We recommend you carve out some time to spend at the retailer — you’ll need it to properly test out your shoes.

How do you find the best fit? Seek out boots that are snug without being too tight or too loose. This means that your toes should move freely but shouldn’t be swimming with room. Same goes for your heels: they should sit snugly in the shoe, not move freely when you walk. Pay attention to potential hot spots — places where the shoes rub or press uncomfortably against your foot — they are major blister culprits. And choose a pair with enough padding and arch/ankle support to cushion your joints. Here are some tips to guide you.

•

• • • •

Choose a knowledgeable retailer. For the most informed source of guidance, stick to outdoor gear stores whose salespeople practice what they preach. They’ll be able to measure your feet with expertise and steer you to the styles that match your purpose.

Wear hiking socks. This will help you get your most precise fit and realistic sense of how the shoes will perform on the trail. (Remember, this means synthetic or wool blend, not cotton.)

If you wear orthotics, bring them. Insoles can bolster support or comfort.

Ask the salesperson if you are interested in trying them.

Try on boots at the end of the day. Feet generally swell during the day.

This will help avoid buying boots that are too small.

Spend time testing shoes out. Walk around the store, up and down stairs and, if possible, up and down inclined surfaces. Then walk some more. Notice if your feet move too freely or feel scrunched. Notice if your toes rub uncomfortably against the front of the shoe. Notice if your heels feel pinched. Keep walking until you are sure you’ve found the right pair.

BREAK THEM IN After you’ve done the research, spent the time, and purchased a pair of shoes that perfectly fit both your feet and your activities the work’s not done yet. To adequately prepare for a village-to-village trek or any activity demanding prolonged use of your footwear, a crucial step is breaking them in. There are no shortcuts. Shoes and feet, simply, need time to conform to one another.

To properly break them in, start by wearing them around the house with the socks and insoles you’ll wear on the trail. Spend time standing, pacing and walking in them. Once this feels comfortable, gradually transition to short outings like running errands. Progress to longer walks, followed by trail hikes, and eventually extended trail hikes. When you get to the point where you can spend a long day on the trail in your shoes and your feet are well-supported, comfortable and happy, you’ve broken in your shoes.

Hope this helps you prepare for what shoes to bring on your next adventure, be it wandering the beaches along the Costa Brava trek in Spain, exploring Portuguese cobblestone streets on our Southwestern Scenic Coastal trip, trekking over the Salkantay Pass at over 15,000 ft. on our trek to Machu Picchu, or navigating the varied trails in the Alps ranging from easy strolls to challenging summits. Happy Hiking!

PACKING LIST AND TREKKING POLES

P

acking for a hiking trip that lasts for over a week can be a daunting and confusing process. Light is often right when traveling and while missing a crucial item in the mountains can be a critical mistake, this article will help outline the must-have items.

WE’LL HELP YOU BUILD A CUSTOM ITINERARY When packing for a hiking trip, making sure that you have the correct essential clothing to succeed in the mountains is crucial. The first rule of thumb is that cotton clothing is the devil. Cotton, when wet, cools your body at a rapid rate through a process of conductive cooling unique to the fabric.

Fabrics to consider instead are wool and synthetic fibers. Wool is the best at keeping you warm while synthetic fibers offer a cooler and lighter option.

Wool socks, in particular, are a must-have. I even wear wool socks on hot days. The extra padding in the socks combined with the fiber strength and relative comfort when you get your feet wet make wool an unbeatable option. Wool T-shirts are also a consideration. Finally, it is imperative that you bring at least one pair of long pants. Getting caught in a storm in shorts is both miserable and dangerous. We all know how quickly the weather in the mountains can shift, so it is important to make sure you keep your day pack stocked with a set of essential bad weather items.

ESSENTIALS • Backpack/daypack. Generally, an 1800-cubic-inch pack is adequate to fit the above items as well as a picnic lunch. However, if your itinerary includes overnights away from your luggage, we recommend bringing a 2400-cubic-inch pack. And bring a rain cover for your backpack.

• Hydration system. This could be a water bottle or bladder system for your backpack. Make sure it holds a minimum of one liter.

• Sturdy, hiking boots/trail shoes. These should be comfortable, waterproof, breathable and most critically, well broken in.

• Waterproof and breathable hooded rain jacket and rain pants.

Preferably made of Gore-Tex. We also recommend bringing a small umbrella.

• Mid-weight insulating layer: wicking fabric such as fleece, wool, synthetic or you can bring a thin-down sweater.

• Base layer, lightweight top and bottom.

• Hiking pants: synthetic, lightweight, zip off legs. If you don’t have zip off legs, bring hiking shorts or skirt.

• Long-sleeve shirt and T-shirt made from quick-drying synthetic or wool.

• Warm, synthetic or wool hat and wind/water resistant gloves.

• Hiking socks and undergarments. Choose wool blends for socks, and also look for performance materials for items like sports bras or underwear.

• Trekking poles. Trekking poles can significantly reduce knee stress; we recommend each hiker brings one collapsible pair.

• Sun protection. High-altitude sun exposure means that quality sunglasses, a brimmed sun hat and high-SPF 50 sunblock are mandatory.

• •

Swimsuit if your accommodations have a spa or pool.

Passport. For tours that cross international borders, identification will be requested.

• Travel Documents. Bring any Eurail, Swiss Pass, etc., that you have purchased for potential reductions on lifts.

• Cash in the currency of the country you are traveling in will come in handy for buying refreshments or meals during the tour.

GEAR Gear for hiking and trekking is reasonably minimal, and much of it is items you can leave in your suitcase depending on the day. In my opinion, the only genuinely essential item is a pair of trekking poles. You can also consider bringing a pair of gaiters and/or rain-pants to keep water and mud out of your boots. Finally, if you have signed up for an early summer or fall trip, it is worth considering bringing a pair of Yak-Trak style boot treads.

While these aren’t strictly necessary, there is often lingering snow on the high passes at these times of the year, and if you have any doubts about walking across snowfields, a little extra traction can go a long way in terms of confidence.

SPECIALTY ITEMS Last but not least, there are some specialty items you can consider bringing with you trekking. The Ryder-Walker packing list recommends an umbrella - this is not a joke. An umbrella can go a long way in keeping you dry and warm on long drizzly days. Put it away if you see lightning though! A smartphone is also a smart option as long as it is charged and the weather is not too cold (as the smartphone batteries quickly fail in sub-freezing temperatures). There are many GPS, weather, and flora identification apps that can be both useful and fun while hiking.

TREKKING POLES Trekking poles are truly an incredible asset for long distance hikes and treks.

Trekking poles are excellent when hiking in varied terrain with ice, snow, rocks, or even just moments that require a little extra balance. Being able to use your poles to maintain extra points of contact with the ground allows you to gain stability in terrain that you might be less comfortable crossing on just your feet, and they are an absolute godsend on sustained descents. Using them while hiking down from a pass or peak takes a significant amount of stress off of your knees. Trust me, your knees will thank you.

WHAT TREKKING POLES TO BUY Typically, we recommend any style of collapsible pole because they are easier to assemble/disassemble and will fit into your backpack. Find a pair of collapsible poles that fits your height rather than adjustable ones - the right height for a trekking pole should leave your arms resting comfortably at around a 90-degree angle in front of you. If you find you have to strain to reach them or need to crunch your arms up into an acute angle to use them, the poles are probably the wrong size - try to buy them in a brick and mortar store where a sales assistant can help you get the right ones unless you are confident purchasing them online. The next most important factor in buying trekking poles is weight. You want these poles to be LIGHT; the lighter the pole, the less the fatigue from using it. Poles with a carbon shaft are often extremely light as well as durable.

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103

Ryder-Walker ALPINE ADVENTURES PO Box 947 Telluride, CO 81435

LET US SHOW YOU THE WORLD! 40TH JUBLIÄUM ENGADINE ANNIVERSARY TREK GUIDED TOUR, SEPTEMBER 27 – OCTOBER 4 Join us as we celebrate and explore the Engadine valley, nestled in the southeastern Swiss Alps.

Experience charming towns and villages rich with a blend of Swiss and Romansh culture. Enjoy a range of hiking options with pristine landscapes, glacial lakes, towering peaks and lush meadows.

SCOTLAND: HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS GUIDED TOUR, MAY 19 – 29 Scotland is a country of 800 diverse islands, rugged coastlines, and a unique culture. Our trek explores historical landmarks, castles and hidden villages.

Along the way we sample world-famous whiskey and delicious cuisine, meet charming locals and hike inspiring mountains, glens and forests.

WALES: COUNTRYSIDE, CASTLES AND COASTLINE GUIDED TOUR, JUNE 20 – 30 Ryder-Walker’s new trek in Wales explores dramatic coastlines, visits enchanting castles and gardens, and experiences the beauty of national nature reserves and parks, as well as summits Wales’ most iconic mountain, Mt. Snowdon. The tour concludes in the capital city of Cardiff, one of the most beautiful cities in the UK. CORSICA: FRENCH ISLE ADVENTURE TREK GUIDED TOUR, SEPTEMBER 28 – OCTOBER 5 Corsica is known for it’s rugged landscapes, and a rich blend of French and Italian influences. The hiking takes us from mountains trails, to coastal sandy beaches, through medieval villages, pastureland, and forests to glacial valleys and river gorges.

RYDERWALKER.COM / 888.586.8365

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