16 minute read
New Trips for 2022 Guided-Group Holidays 6/7 Corfu Trail 8/9
Experience Something Different in 2022
FOR 2022
Our team has been busy looking into new walking adventures across the globe. We will whisk you away to the Norwegian mountains, historic ruins of Petra, Chile's lakes and deserts and to the Mediterranean for a new guided-group trip to Puglia.
NEW Italy: Walking Trails of Puglia
Venture into the heart of Puglia where the history, nature, culinary traditions and the warmth of the people will capture your heart forever. A region filled with character, Puglia is unspoilt. Walk through narrow streets, stay in white hilltop villages, visit archaeological sites and admire the Baroque architecture that all combines for an unforgettable walking experience.
Highlights
• Stay in the picturesque town of Ostuni • Visit the ‘Stonehenge’ of Puglia • Walk amongst centuries-old olive trees of Puglia
Departs: 2 Apr & 24 Sep 2022
8 days from £1,099
NEW Walking in Norway
A combination of pristine glacial lakes, dramatic peaks and unspoilt landscapes will entice you from your homely breakfast in historic mountain hotels or lakeside cabins. Choose from a hike up Bitihorn or Synshorn peak and self-guide your way along spectacular trails to Eidsbugarden from where you hike the famous ‘King’s Road’ trail and end with a fjord cruise to Bergen.
Highlights
• Hike in Jotunheimen National Park • Follow part of the King’s Road trail • Sognefjord cruise from Aurland to
Bergen
Departs: Jul-Aug
9 days from £2,299
NEW Jordan: Dana to Petra Trek
This is an iconic walk across the deserts and mountains of Jordan to the magnificent ruins of Petra. Trek through stunning mountain gorges and canyons on historic Bedouin trails. Cross the classic ‘hamada’ desert to the mountains and escarpments above the Great Rift Valley. Follow spectacular trails through wadis and along rocky ledges to the ‘back door’ of Petra.
Highlights
• Trek from Dana to magnificent Petra • Amazing desert & mountain scenery • Camp in true Bedouin style beneath the stars
Departs: 23 Apr & 10 Sep 2022
8 days from £1,599
NEW Walking in Chile’s Lake District & Desert
Experience Chile’s diverse landscapes, hiking through lush forests and past spectacular lakes, climbing an active volcano and seeing the canyons, desert and dunes of the Atacama Valley. Visit an indigenous village for lunch and learn about the local culture. Two optional extensions include stargazing and hiking a historic caravan trail.
Highlights
• Hike volcanic, desert & forested landscapes • Meet indigenous Mapuche people • Ascend active Volcano Villarrica
Departs: 13 Mar & 6 Nov 2022
13 days from £3,195
NEW Turkey: Walking with Nomads in Lycia
Join the Yörük nomads to enjoy this stunning region and its culture through the eyes of the locals. Meet and help shepherds as they herd sheep to new pastures, make local foodstuffs such as cheese and grape syrup and eat a traditionally cooked dinner. Help with the olive harvest and learn about olive cultivation, as you immerse yourself in a completely different lifestyle.
Highlights
• Walk, live & work with Yörük people • Learn traditional nomadic skills • Explore the ancient ruins of Xanthos &
Patara
Join like-minded walkers alongside your expert local guide for a journey of discovery along the world’s least trodden routes. Whether travelling solo, or with family or friends, our small group trips provide you with a sociable way to explore the world on foot.
Morocco: The Berber Trail
This amazing walking holiday provides you with the opportunity to experience real Berber life close up by following ancient Berber trails that link the mud and stone villages of the High Atlas. Trekking the valleys and mountain passes – or tizis – you get a glimpse into this fascinating culture before returning to the colourful capital, Marrakech, and its maze of souks and bazaars.
Highlights
• Dramatic High Atlas Mountain panoramas • Friendly Berber hospitality & culture • Charming & timeless mountain villages
Departs: 30 Apr & 10 Sep 2022
8 days from £499 Peaks of the Balkans
Take a memorable walking journey across Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro. Discover these remote regions by crossing mountain passes, conquering the highest peaks and passaging through stunning glacial valleys. Alongside the uncrowded walking routes, you will experience the region’s unique hospitality. This is a true adventure in the heart of the Balkans.
Highlights
• Hike the spectacular ridge of
Berizhdol • Enjoy incredible views of the
Accursed Mountains • Hike the Perja pass from
Montenegro to Albania
Departs: 9 Sep 2022 14 days from £1,399
Greece: Hiking in the Pindos Mountains
Experienced walkers will enjoy the challenge of reaching three of Greece’s highest, lesser-visited peaks and an alpine lake. Up to ten-hour hikes will lead you along ancient pathways, through rare wildflower meadows and up peaks with breathtaking views. Enjoy some superb stargazing from an overnight stay in a mountain refuge and typically warm Greek hospitality.
Highlights
• Hike three of Greece’s highest peaks • Enjoy breathtaking views of
Vikos Gorge • See a remote & picturesque part of Greece
Departs: 3 Jun & 9 Sep 2022
10 days from £1,099 Hiking in Croatia
Discover Croatia’s many beautiful national parks while walking from mountains to coast. Taking in some of the most intriguing landscapes, you pass stunning waterfalls, plunging gorges and a huge variety of flora and fauna. Enjoy Croatia’s national parks walking mainly, on well-marked paths, for up to 6 hours per day with an abundance of pictureperfect views.
Highlights
• Hike the Medvednica
Mountains • Views of Dalmatian islands &
Split from Mount Monsor • Immerse yourself in Croatia's national parks
Departs: 7 May & 3 Sep 2022
8 days from £1,249
To see our full range of over 40 guided-group holidays see the website
Finland: Call of the Wild
This unique adventure holiday to the north of Finland has plenty of fantastic winter activities to keep you occupied. Go cross-country skiing, snowshoe to a remote wilderness cabin for an overnight stay, learn how to make an igloo and go sledding with huskies. Wind down in the evenings in a Finnish-style sauna and, if you are lucky, you can even see the aurora borealis (Northern Lights)!
Highlights
• See the Northern Lights • Drive your own husky sled • Have a go at snowshoeing
Depart: 27 Feb & 20 Mar 2022
8 days from £1,199 Slovakia: Walking with Bears
Tread in bear tracks alongside park rangers and become immersed in the daily life of bears. Look out for footprints in the Silent Valley as you scan for bears, red deer and golden eagles whilst learning about the diverse flora and fauna of the Carpathian Mountains. This challenging walk, in outstanding scenery, is limited to eight to minimise disturbing the wildlife.
Highlights
• A chance to see bears in the wild • Walk through dramatic gorges • Witness the majestic peaks of the High Tatras
Departs: 6 & 20 May, 16 & 30 Sep 2022
8 days from £949
Armenia: Beyond the Silk Road
Experienced hikers and those with a passion for history and culture will love getting their soles stuck into this varied and spectacular trek. With the help of vehicle and rail transfers, you will see ancient monasteries and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and walk lesser trodden routes, encompassing the vast Lake Sevan, imposing Mount Ararat and numerous ancient caravanserais.
Highlights
• Learn about Armenia's rich history & culture • Visit Silk Road caravanserai & meet some nomads • Trek above Lake Sevan
Ancient Trails of Japan
Experience the serene side of Japan as you hike and enjoy the calming effect of forests and sacred mountains, along timeless point-to-point pilgrim trails. Visit ancient temples, the preserved post town of Tsumago, and the shrines and sights of the country’s picturesque historic capital, Kyoto. Ryokan stays and onsens provide a taste of Japan’s celebrated hospitality.
Highlights
• Experience traditional
Japanese life • See exquisite peaks & pristine forests • Walk ancient pilgrimage trails
Departs: 22 May & 9 Oct 2022
13 days from £4,349
The enchanting island of Corfu offers spectacular self-guided walking on trails through aromatic forests and lush meadows, while tracks and cobbled paths provide views over the Ionian Sea.
The lovely Greek island of Corfu in the Ionian Sea faces the coast of Albania and the north-western part of mainland Greece across a narrow strait. Known as Korkyra in ancient times, its history is inextricably linked with that of Greece and marked by numerous battles. In the fifth century BC, along with Athens and Corinth, it was one of Greece’s three great naval powers, as evidenced by its many ruined temples and archaeological sites.
Two mountain ranges divide Corfu in three: the mountainous north, the undulating central region and the low-lying south. The more important range runs east-west, reaching its greatest height at Mount Pantokrator (911m). The island is composed of many fascinating limestone formations, and the numerous beaches along its magnificent coastline make it a popular tourist destination.
It is a fantastic place to explore on foot, with spectacular routes that take in its varied terrain and beautiful scenery – from the rolling landscapes of the south to the mountainous north – making no day the same. Our walking holidays all feature the world-famous Corfu Trail; take your pick of holiday lengths from 8, 10 and 15 days, all of which will leave you longing for more!
Established in 2001, the Corfu Trail has become regarded as a challenging and highly rewarding walking route. The perfect months to walk the 220 kilometre trail are May, June, September and October, when the days are cooler and the air is clear. Avoiding the main tourist areas, your walk traverses down rural tracks and through picturesque olive groves and vineyards. The landscape is soon replaced with orange trees and the aroma of sweet orange blossom fills the air. Tranquil lakes harbour terrapins, brightly coloured frogs, majestic shrikes and a blur of swallows plucking flies from the air above capture your attention. Beautiful wildflowers accompany you along the whole of the Corfu Trail, and your days often end with descents to long golden beaches where you stop for dinner at a delightful seafront taverna.
There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the warm, azure waters of the Ionian Sea – stretches of sand invite you to take off your walking boots, periodically cooling your feet in the gentle sea. As the beach comes to an end – for now – you head into the sand dunes where the beautiful Lake Korission reveals itself for the first time. As you walk along the thin strip of land keep an eye out for the brightly coloured flamingos which can often be seen here.
For the experienced hiker there are two peaks to look forward to – Mount Pantokrator and Agi Deka – the highest summits on the island. Your efforts are rewarded with fantastic panoramic views, giving a great perspective of the distance already covered. Ascents and descents are broken up by picturesque villages offering refreshment, with the freshly squeezed orange and lemon juice particularly welcome!
Who would not want to stay on this magical island as long as possible?
The Corfu Trail: 8 days
Deservedly a firm favourite with our clients, this magnificent week takes you from the southernmost tip through some of island’s finest areas on inland tracks and cobbled paths that undulate through forests of cedar, willow and juniper, past picturesque villages, lush meadows and rivers to Liapades on the west coast.
Highlights
• Enjoy spectacular island views • Undulating trails & coastal ridges • Visit vineyards & olive groves
“The communication between me and Emma was fantastic, she kept me informed throughout Covid and worked with me to ensure we got a holiday and also answered all my questions. The transition between booking and the resort team was brilliant, the resort team provided us with the reassurance that they had our back 24/7. From start to finish, what a fantastic experience.”
Ian, The Corfu Trail, October 2021
The Corfu Trail: 10 days
This trip follows the 8-day route, before extending into the mountains as far as Kalami. At the start of the wilder mountain section there is a stunning panorama from the ruined Taxiarchis Chapel. Climb to the summit of Mount Pantokrator looking back over the trail you just walked, and see your route towards the north.
Highlights
• Discover off-the-beaten-track hamlets & villages • Walk on age-old tracks & mule paths • Explore the rugged north west of the island
The Corfu Trail: 15 days
Similar to the 10-day trip with a rest day in Liapades, choose to spend it at the beach, pool, exploring the old village or – weather permitting – renting a boat and heading along the coast to find your own deserted beach. Back on the trail continue to the northernmost tip of the island, where the Corfu Trail reaches its natural conclusion.
Highlights
• Spend extra time exploring Kalami village (home of Lawrence Durrell) • Rent a boat at Liapades • Hike through olive groves & mountain villages
Take your time, engaging all your senses with the world around you, as you follow route notes to reach your next welcoming inn or guest house. With no set departures dates, you are free to travel at your leisure.
Austria’s Alpine Splendour
This circuit hike around Austria’s Salzkammergut 'lake district' – a chocolate-box pretty landscape in a palette of blues and greens – will leave you spellbound. Enjoy longer walking days for deeper exploration into the mountains, encountering alpine villages and spa towns, and there is an option to take a ride on a cog railway. A variety of tasty local dishes awaits you at every stop.
Highlights
• Experience panoramic lakeshore scenery • Lengthy scenic walks • Enjoy some hearty Austrian gastronomy
When to go: Apr-Oct 8 days from £549
Footsteps of the Cathars: Carcassonne to Foix
Enjoy a memorable walking holiday in southern France between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean where the mountainous landscapes showcase its immense natural beauty. Along the way you stop at ancient castles where you discover the history of the Cathars. For a shorter holiday, why not consider one of our 8-day itineraries?
Highlights
• Visit the charming medieval walled city of Carcassonne • Excellent walks in the High
Pyrenees • See lesser-known Cathar castles off-the-beaten-track
Spain: Almeria Coastal Way
Never far from the glistening azure sea, this year-round coastal trail takes you past secluded beaches and rocky coves, punctuated by small fishing villages, where you can cool off in the inviting Mediterranean. Venturing further inland you encounter abandoned gold mines and the desert landscapes of Hollywood westerns, dotted with cacti and palms.
Highlights
• Rugged coastal trails with farreaching views • Scenic alpine lakes, forests & mountains • Variety of walks through wildflower meadows
Departs: Jan-Dec 6 days from £499
Germany: Trails of Old Saxony
In the east of Germany, bordering Czechia, Saxony’s towering fortresses and incredible rock formations dominate the landscape, whilst picturesque small towns line the River Elbe, creating a very attractive and varied walking experience. There is time to explore the city of Dresden before continuing to Bad Schandau, in the heart of Saxon Switzerland.
Highlights
• Discover fortresses & castles • Trek in the ‘Empire of the
Stones’ • See the famous pillars of the
Bastei
Jean, Austria’s Alpine Splendour, August 2021
To see our full range of over 30 self-guided holidays see the website
Greece: Santorini & Naxos Discovery
Explore these best-known Aegean islands, combining stunning scenery with an opportunity to relax and enjoy traditional Greek hospitality. On Naxos ancient trails lead through quaint villages, and on Santorini – famed for its whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches – you can admire the volcanic caldera and walk through the island’s vineyards.
Highlights
• Walk to Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades • Discover dramatic cliffs & panoramic views in Santorini • Explore Naxos at a relaxed pace
Departs: Apr-Oct
12 days from £949 Slovenia’s Lakes and Mountains
Mountains, alpine lakes, meadows and forests... Wandering across wildflower meadows with the backdrop of the Julian Alps is a pure delight. You can explore amongst immaculate, hidden mountain valleys where strips of vegetables grow amongst the hayfields, discover villages brimming with traditional architecture, or ascend mountains for amazing views.
Highlights
• Magnificent views in the Julian
Alps • Scenic alpine lakes, forests & mountains • Variety of walks through wildflower meadows
Departs: May-Oct 8 days from £729
Austria: Lakes and Alps in Style
Stunning walks, combined with charming small towns and villages, impressive mountains, glittering lakes, wildflower meadows and welcoming hospitality, make this the perfect summer holiday. Walk through the wondrous alpine Lake District, with overnight stops at idyllic locations in the picture-postcard town of Hallstatt and the spa resort of Bad Ischl.
Highlights
• Relax in superb hotels • Explore Salzwelten Hallstatt salt mines • Marvel at the ice caves in the
Dachstein
France: The Classic GR10
Journey on foot through the wildlife-rich Pyrenees, embracing incredible views of French and Spanish summits. This challenging point-to-point classic hike takes you up rocky paths, past mountain lakes and to the summit of Hourquette des Hounts (2,275m). Enjoy hotel hospitality and a night in a mountain refuge. Look out for Pyrenean chamois and playful marmots en route.
Highlights
• One of Europe’s classic routes • Far-reaching scenic mountain views • Chance to spot mountain wildlife
