Whilst we have holidays available throughout the year, in some places the weather and climate either preclude walking at certain times or at best make it very difficult.
El Hierro the least known, and most westerly, of the Canary Islands. In fact it was the most westerly point of the ‘old world’. Hitherto it has escaped mass tourism, and is free of giant hotels and apartment complexes. The population is only 10,000, giving a very different feel to the other Canarian islands. The Herrenõs are fiercely proud of their island and although they are generally against mass tourism they are very welcoming towards visitors who come to appreciate the environment, such as walkers, naturalists and divers.
An island of only 600 sq miles but a continent in miniature Gran Canaria offers lush forests exotic fauna and flora Sahara-like dunes mountains volcanic craters and sometimes snow on the highest peaks. Two things make Gran Canaria distinct from the other Canarian Islands. Firstly the reservoirs that are abundant in the mountainous region nestling in the valleys giving important water supply to the inhabitants and a refreshing vista for the walker. Secondly there are the ancient settlements and fascinating troglodyte villages built by the deeply religious Guanche about 4000 years ago and many are still occupied!
La Gomera located in the Canary Islands 35 minutes by fast ferry from Tenerife remains beautifully unspoilt and is a walker’s delight. Measuring the equivalent of just 20 miles by 20 miles yet packed with a variety of walks it is a tiny friendly island with charming rural villages and a handful of small coastal towns.
La Palma a lush mountainous island in the Western Canaries measuring the equivalent of just 24 miles square offers attractive opportunities for walkers. Its diversity of landscapes constantly change as you gain height or vary direction. There are forests of pine laurel and eucalyptus and meadows strewn with colourful wild flowers.Farming remains the bedrock of the economy with a wealth of almond groves tobacco fields banana plantations and vineyards. In contrast the island also features extensive evidence of volcanic activity with much to explore on foot including the enormous crater of the Caldera de Taburiente in the awe-inspiring and scientifically important National Park. The densely forested northern coast features magnificently rugged sea cliffs and spectacular gorges. You can enjoy exploring the picturesque small towns and villages dotted along the coast and inland.
Few places can match the natural beauty of the Canary Islands where one of the islands Tenerife has become a mecca for enthusiastic walkers. Tenerife is an island of contrasts from the volcanic moonscapes of the Teide National Park to the high cliffs ridges and deep valleys of the coastal mountain ranges. The island boasts the highest mountain in Spain Teide at over 3660m. Due to its southern latitude its slopes can be walked for most of the year. The coastal ranges of Anaga and Teno rise abruptly from the sea. Teno hosts the giant and dramatic sea cliffs of Los Gigantes (610m). Anaga has steep mountain ridges offering magnificent views across the ever present Atlantic Ocean. Midway between the two is the Orotava Valley with its pine clad slopes. All of this is well away from the crowded tourist resorts for which Tenerife is renowned.
El Hierro is the least known, and most westerly, of the Canary Islands. It has escaped mass tourism and is therefore free of giant hotels and apartment complexes. The population is only 10,000, giving a very different feel to the other Canarian islands. The Herrenõs are fiercely proud of their island and although they are generally against mass tourism they are very welcoming towards visitors who come to appreciate the environment, such as walkers, naturalists and divers
This trek is one of magnificent ever-changing vistas with far-reaching views to the sea as you walk across the central mountains of Gran Canaria. We have researched a north to south route across the island linking family run hotels taking in a wide variety of spectacular scenery which will have you wondering why you have not walked here before. We are particularly proud of this holiday as we are the only walking company to offer such a trek on this island. It was only possible to put it together using extensive local knowledge.
This trek takes you across the island from east to west giving you the opportunity of seeing the best landscapes that La Gomera has to offer. We descend into deep valleys walk through formerly cultivated terraced fields and pass by a unique laurel forest which is a national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are some long and tough days but the route ensures that you experience all aspects of this beautiful and tranquil island. You will pass through Gomerean villages that in many respects continue traditions going back to pre-Spanish conquest. You will enjoy many stunning vistas taking in the ever present coastline on this small island.
The Canary Islands are an African archipelago in the Kingdom of Spain consisting of seven islands of volcanic origin in the Atlantic Ocean. The islands are Tenerife Gran Canaria Lanzarote La Palma La Gomera El Hierro Fuerteventura and La Graciosa They are located off the north-western coast of mainland Africa (Morocco and the Western Sahara). The nearest island (Fuerteventura) is 108 km from the northwest mainland African coast. They form an autonomous community of Spain.
Meiringen is the most prominent settlement in the Haslital Valley which stretches from the Grimsel Pass to the peaceful waters of Lake Brienz at the eastern end of the Bernese Oberland. The valley is ideal for walking holidays exhibiting a rich variety of landscapes with lush pastures dazzling cascades tight gorges and several tributary valleys equally worthy of exploration. Grade -Self Guided - Easy & Moderate & Challenging
Meiringen is the most prominent settlement in the Haslital Valley which stretches from the Grimsel Pass to the peaceful waters of Lake Brienz at the eastern end of the Bernese Oberland. The valley is ideal for winter walking holidays with an extensive network of winter walking paths most well away from the skiing areas. Grade Self Guided - Easy & Moderate
Here is a brief description of the main walking holiday Cape Verdean IslandsSantiago, the largest island in the Cape Verde Islands archipelago, it is host to the capital of the country, Praia. It is extremely mountainous with hardly any flat land on the island. The highest peak is nearly 1400m, which is the focal point of one of many natural parks in the country. The walking is varied with mountainous and historic walks available.
Fogo, is one of the most geologically dramatic of not only this group of islands but any worldwide. The island is dominated by a caldera, a partially collapsed giant volcano out of which is the relatively new volcano of Pico (2829m), the highest peak in Cape Verde, which you have the opportunity of walking to the summit. Or you can walk to the peak of a side volcano which was formed only in 1995.
São Vicente, This island is the smallest Cape Verde walking island we feature and it has the closest link with the UK. Its beautiful harbour was a major coaling station for British vessels en route to all parts of its empire. When oil replaced steam the British departed but left behind their architecture and some of its culture and language still used today. Here there is a climb to the top of the highest mountain.
Santo Antao. This is the most famous Cape Verde walking island being the second largest and we concentrate on the north east. Here is a spectacular landscape of jagged peaks either side of deep valleys (Ribeiras) where people live and farm clinging to the valley sides on perilous terraces. Bananas, cassava and sugar cane are grown as well as other seasonal fruits and vegetables. The coastline is no less dramatic with paths clinging to the side of dramatic cliffs and offering one of the best coastal walking experiences imaginable.
Sal is visited in addition to the four Cape Verdean walking islands. You may have to travel via Sal and stay overnight as only this island has both a non stop air link with the UK and good air connections with the other islands. The island is flat and dull for a walker, but it does have some excellent hotels for overnight stays or a relaxing few beach days at the end of the holiday.
Santo Antao. This is the most famous walking island and is the second largest. We concentrate on the north east. Here is a spectacular landscape where nature went crazy in Her creation! Jagged peaks, strange rock formations, craters, volcanoes and plunging ravines and valleys filled with lush vegetation are just a few of the characteristics of this amazing island. Deep valleys (Ribeiras) are farmed by the local people and terraces cling to every corner and crevace of the almost sheer valley sides where bananas, cassava and sugar cane are grown along with other seasonal fruuits and vegetables. The coastline is no less dramatic with paths clinging to the cliffsides and offering one of the most amazing coastal walks imaginable - anywhere!
Dominica is such a pristine island there is a very short list of typical island attractions to fill each day. So it's back to nature and in visiting Dominica you soon become a bit of naturalist - that's the island. With so much to learn discover and explore the best way to start is on foot.
Walking is undoubtedly what the island is all about and we offer a choice of guided and self guided walks from two beautiful and very comfortable Eco Lodges. Also we suggest a night of two in Fort Young in Roseau to explore the capital..town. For a perfect combination stay high in the island's interior in Roseau and down by the ocean on the east coast. Aside from hiking the Ocean offers further opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, diving and whale watching.
Food on the island is pure plentiful and very natural with an abundance of fruits, fish and vegetables which leave you glowing with health when you return home. Dominica is an island which will truly captivate your senses with every intention to return...and most people do.
Gozo is the second largest of the Maltese Archipelago and means Joy in Castillian. Measuring only 14km by 7km its magical atmosphere enraptures thousands of visitors. This beautiful island is steeped in history as Phoenicians, Arabs, Normans, Spanish, French and British have occupied the island all leaving their cultural mark for the future visitor to discover. There pervades a sleepy pace and rustic charm contrasting with its much busier and larger neighbour the island of Malta. The Gozitans are all very friendly and especially welcoming to English speaking visitors and English is widely spoken.
The Annapurna region has long been one of the most popular hiking
regions in Nepal. This is not surprising as it offers the hiker an
opportunity to walk through spectacular scenery amongst majestic
mountain peaks. In addition to experience Nepali mountain
life passing through Gurung villages clinging to the mountain sides
where farming has continued unchanged in its methods for centuries, but
now supported by providing hospitality for trekkers. You will walk
through Rhododendron forests which offer an unforgettably colourful sight, and through giant bamboo stands above fast-flowing mountain rivers filled with melt water as they pass through deep gorges.
The Annapurna region has long been one of the most popular hiking regions in Nepal. This is not surprising as it offers the hiker an opportunity to walk through spectacular scenery amongst majestic mountain peaks. In addition to experience Nepali mountain life passing through Gurung villages clinging to the mountain sides where farming has continued unchanged in its methods for centuries, but now supported by providing hospitality for trekkers. You will walk through Rhododendron forests which offer an unforgettably colourful sight, and through giant bamboo stands above fast-flowing mountain rivers filled with melt water as they pass through deep gorges
The Annapurna region has long been one of the most popular hiking
regions in Nepal. This is not surprising as it offers the hiker an
opportunity to walk through spectacular scenery amongst majestic
mountain peaks. In addition to experience Nepali mountain life passing
through Gurung villages clinging to the mountain sides where farming has
continued unchanged in its methods for centuries, but now supported by
providing hospitality for trekkers. You will walk through Rhododendron
forests which offer an unforgettably colourful sight, and through giant
bamboo stands above fast-flowing mountain rivers filled with melt
water as they pass through deep gorges. If you are making the trek to
the Sanctuary you will experience all this plus a beautiful alpine
amphitheatre surrounded by 6000 metre snow-capped mountains
A trek to Everest Base Camp with an ascent of Kala Patar to view the highest mountain on earth has to be a truly once in a lifetime experience. However, anyone with a high level of fitness and good stamina can attempt this challenging trek to fulfil their ambition. Although the distance of each hiking day may not always be long, the altitude will undoubtedly have an effect on your walking ability, but we take things slowly and with flexibility offering plenty of time to adjust your body to the altitude
Walking in the Himalaya in Nepal is seen by most walkers as the ultimate trekking destination and few will leave Nepal having undertaken one of the treks we offer without agreeing with this statement. Walking in the lower regions of Everest you will have the opportunity to walk along good paths through Sherpa villages rich in their Buddhist Culture and with much Tibetan influence.Trails go alongside glacier-sourced mountain streams with the highest mountains in the world as a constant backdrop. You will see outstanding physical features in the landscape, visit ancient monasteries, experience life without mechanisation as well as having the opportunity to interact with the local cultures of the people that have been farming this beautiful land for centuries.
A trek to Everest Base Camp with an ascent of Kala Patar to view the highest mountain on earth has to be a truly once in a lifetime experience. However, anyone with a high level of fitness and good stamina can attempt this challenging trek to fulfil their ambition. Although the distance of each hiking day may not always be long, the altitude will undoubtedly have an effect on your walking ability, but we take things slowly and with flexibility offering plenty of time to adjust your body to the altitude.
We offer a choice of walking holidays in Madeira an island of fascinating natural beauty and enticing climate. It rises steeply from the Atlantic Ocean standing with its small island neighbours in splendid isolation off the coast of Europe and Africa. An island of volcanic origin it is a haven for those seeking a relaxing holiday in close proximity to nature. A network of levadas built to carry water from the springs in the north to irrigate the cultivated areas of the south, contour along the mountain sides their banks planted with wild hydrangeas lilies and agapanthus. Its mountains are rugged and inspiring, often with splendid sea views. Gardens and parks are everywhere planted with all manner of exotic trees shrubs and blooms. Madeira has had close links with the U.K. since the birth of its wine trade in the 17th Century. Madeirans are friendly and welcoming people and English is widely spoken.
Why not take the opportunity to stay in the countryside in small hotels and experience Madeira to the full?We have put together an itinerary taking in levadas coastal walks and high mountain trails. The hotels are all family owned and therefore you are assured of a fine welcome and the quality local food will be something to look forward to at the end of a day’s walking. Your luggage is transferred for you between the hotels and sometimes you will be transferred by car to the finest paths that Madeira has to offer. You have a free day in Funchal at the end of the holiday so you can experience the island’s capital its old town shops and restaurants.
Our holidays are based in the delightful village of Orba in the region of south east Spain known as Marina Alta located midway between Valencia and Alicante 25km inland from the Costa Blanca. You can discover the splendour of a popular walking area the mountains and valleys of which afford a multitude of ever changing panoramic views. Agriculture flourishes here in this fertile region renowned for producing olives almonds oranges lemons and grapes. Grapes are produced for both wine and raisins and many crops are cultivated in much the same way as they have been for four or five centuries. You will marvel at the thousands of terraces built to gain maximum production from this mountainous region.
Tiny St. Lucia, shaped like a tear drop, is just 24 miles long and 14 miles wide. It forms part of a volcanic chain of islands and is widely known for its two great spires, Gros Piton and Petit Piton which are among the Caribbean’s most striking landmarks, jutting straight up for over half a mile out of the ocean. Similar in terrain to Dominica, the island has superb rain forests, volcanic ridges, valleys, beautiful beaches and unique flora and fauna – a paradise for bird watchers and walkers. Islanders are anxious to preserve their special island and much is now protected providing the walker with a dream landscape to explore. Discovered by Columbus on St. Lucy’s day in 1502 the island has alternated between British and French rule until being granted independence in 1979. English is the official language, but the French sounding Creole patois is widely spoken.
Western Crete has long been a favorite destination for British walkers with many returning year after year to savour this very unspoilt part of the island. The region offers spectacular contrasting scenery. The White Mountains dotted with remote mountain villages rise to over 2400m providing some challenging walks for the experienced. Radiating from these mountains are numerous gorges running down to the sea the most renowned being the Samaria Gorge. Undoubtedly the sea is one of Crete’s main attributes and coastal paths are enhanced by the Libyan Sea with shades of blue extending from the clearest pale turquoise to deep indigo blue. It’s a destination where the people are as pleasant as the weather and the delicious locally produced foods (a haven for vegetarians by the way).
Grading - Easy Moderate & Challenging
The Peloponnese is divided from the Greek mainland by that magnificent engineering feat the Corinth Canal and consists of three spindly fingers the middle of which is known as the Mani peninsula.
The Peloponnese covers an area of land roughly the size of Wales. Our walking takes place in the Exo Mani (Outer Mani) and is centred around the bohemian coastal village of Kardamili some 35kms south of Kalamata. This is a region little affected by tourism and still heavily reliant on agriculture for its main source of income. The Mani is a green and lush area due to its heavy rains in January and February. The area has small mountain villages each with their own character all with Greek Orthodox churches and chapels generally open for you to explore. They are especially noted for their exquisite frescos on the walls and ceilings.
There are picturesque small fishing villages all along the coast with whitewashed houses clustered around harbours full of fishing boats. The scenery is stunning in an area of outstanding natural beauty steeped in ancient history with fascinating relics of a bygone era.
Morocco is on the continent of Africa but its culture and religion is middle eastern and it’s future is seen as European. So a great country to visit and relish in this diversity. Home to 36 million Moroccans in a country almost the size of France there is plenty of space, however a large percentage is uninhabitable desert or highmountains. The cities including Marrakech are busy bustling places steeped in history with souks (markets), mosques, palaces and museums to explore. The countryside by contrast feels like it is standing still, with mules slowly walking along country roads or mountain tracks, with their burden of farmers’ crops or products for a distant market, as they have been doing for centuries.
The nine Islands of the Azores are Europe’s western most point located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. With their blue lakes bordered by flowers dazzling views of the sea from high in the hills and lush green landscapes of ancient volcanic craters the islands of the Azores are a paradise for walkers and nature lovers. We offer the best four walking islands São Miguel the largest renowned for its flowers green landscapes and scenic lakes. Also the islands of Pico with its iconic volcano and whale watching Faial with its blue hydrangea hedges and volcanic craters and São Jorge with steep escarpments and green pasture land ‘fajãs’. These three are all grouped together and inter connected by ferry. The Azores are part of Portugal and therefore in the European Union and the currency is the Euro. The Azores is popular for the Portuguese in July and August so early booking for these months is recommended.
The majestic almost perfect volcanic coned mountain of Pico Alto at 2352 m is the highest peak in all of Portugal. It dominates the island which measures 46 km long and 15 km wide. However upon closer inspection this island inhabited by farmers fishermen and whalers will fascinate you.
The long tradition of whaling now ceased leaves a whale watching industry second to none and some fine museums dedicated to its history. Pico has world heritage vineyards as they were created by breaking up the hard lava covering the earth to build rock walls then planting vine cuttings in small circles of fertile soil. We recommend a stay of 2 nights on Pico stay an extra night for whale watching and another day for an ascent of Pico Alto.
Measuring 56km long but only 8km wide the sea is ever present around São Jorge. The highest point is just over 1000m and is part of a mountain chain running the length of the island. The white-washed villages of São Jorge are sprinkled across the unspoilt landscape along the water's edge or high up on the cliffs. You occasionally pass small dairies where cows’ milk is turned into the island’s famed cheeses. The island is famous for its ‘fajãs’ - flat meadows made from lava flows lying at the foot of seemingly unscaleable cliffs. We recommend a stay of at least 2 nights on São Jorge but there is sufficient walking for a full week.
São Miguel is famous for its beautiful landscapes and exceptional volcanic lakes. The largest of the Azorean islands it measures 65km long by 16km wide and is known as Ilhe Verde - Green Island. A stunning coastline of small bays with black sand and precipitous sea cliffs interspersed with small harbours adding further interest. The island features three major calderas - volcanic craters - now with lakes sparkling at the bottom. Sete Citdades even has a village at the bottom of the crater and two lakes one blue and one green. At Lagoa das Furnas boiling sulphurous water comes to the surface through hot springs near the lake and is a reminder of the volcanic origin of all of the islands. The mountains rise to over 1000m. As an example of São Miguel’s climate one finds the only tea and pineapple plantations in Europe both well worth a visit on non walking days. Rarely could a visitor fail to be impressed by the incredible myriad of all the different shades of greens exhibited by its extensive prairies forests tobacco fields and tea plantations as well as the abundance of hues this island has to offer… We recommend a stay of a week on this island with the highlights walkable during a four night stay.
Faial is an island of two dominant colours – green and blue. Both are found in the indigenous flora from the grass covered hills to the many shades of Hydrangeas bordering the fields and blending with the sea and sky. The picture is completed with the intense blackness of the volcanic ash of the barren ‘Capelinhos’ deposited only 40 years ago. The island is 21km long and 14km wide and dominated by a Caldeira at just over 1000m. One of the must stunning aspects of Faial is the view across the short channel to Pico and its dominant peak. We recommend a stay of at least 3 nights on Faial or longer if you wish to use Faial as a base for walking on Pico
With easy access and a superb climate the Alpujarras traverse the southern slopes of the Sierra Nevada which rise to over 3300m and offer excellent and varied walking opportunities. Often with snow capped peaks until late June the Sierra Nevada provides a stunning backdrop to the lower slopes of the Alpujarra range. Here narrow roads wind their way around the folds in the mountains connecting whitewashed villages clinging to the hillside or perched over a ravine. Few cars however pass this way.
The Alpujarra is one of the most wild and undiscovered mountain ranges of Spain stretching from the highest peaks of the Sierra Nevada down to the Mediterranean below. Life has changed little since the Moors first cultivated the terraces many centuries ago and you are likely to see the farmers tending the land with their mules and the local women washing clothes in the village springs or shelling almonds by hand. The tiny whitewashed villages which cling to the mountain side are linked by the ancient track of the Camino Real or GR7 and you will walk amongst olive and almond groves crossing tiny mountain springs with the snow capped mountains above and the Mediterranean in the distance below. Whatever the season, whether it is the stunning almond blossom in February and March, the flowers of late spring and early summer or the colours and fruits of autumn (when you will be able to pick almonds wild figs mulberries and grapes along your route) you are unlikely to bump into any other walkers apart from the odd shepherd tending his herds. Sometimes the route takes you high into the Sierra amongst pine forests where you may see ibex, birds of prey or even wild boar.
This hotel to hotel trek has been specifically deigned to reveal many aspects of this beautiful part of Catalonia; you will walk along the "wild coast" with its miles of coastal cliffs solitary beaches and coves with crystal clear water. You will walk inland through the Aiguamolls Nature Reserve where innumerable seabirds and songbirds have settled. You will walk up mountain trails offering spectacular views sweeping far into the Pyrenees.From the coast to the mountains from sea to crag from sandy beach to shady Mediterranean forest – the diverse and changing natural landscapes exert a powerful attraction to walkers. To walk here is a revelation.
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This trek takes you through some of the most stunning scenery to be found in this part of Spain. It is a journey of discovery through beautiful Mediterranean countryside with overnight stays whitewashed Moorish villages. As you walk through terraces of oranges lemons and olives first cultivated by the Moors over 1000 years ago you will enjoy the sights and scents of a multitude of fragrant flowers and herbs. Your ascents are rewarded by viewpoints with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. We use accommodation that will blend in with the journey and heighten the experience.
If you wish to walk just the last 100km please here The famous Way of St. James, otherwise known as the Camino de Santiago, is a five hundred mile trail across northern Spain which has been walked by pilgrims for over 1000 years. For most, the Camino ends at the magnificent Romanesque Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela – the final resting place of St. James the Apostle, although a further few days of walking takes the pilgrim to ‘the end of the earth’ at Finisterre with its downward pointing scallop shell signifying the actual ending and where Pilgrims once burned their boots. Our fully flexible hotel to hotel trek can offer any combination of the stages between Pamplona and Santiago. Setting off from Pamplona, the route crosses La Rioja, an area rich in vineyards and rolling hills – reputedly the most attractive section of the Camino. Leaving Burgos, the route traverses the hauntingly beautiful plains of the Meseta in the province of Castilla y Leon making its way to the culturally rich city of Leon. From Leon the Camino crosses the Cordillera Cantabrica - reaching the highest point along the entire route, into Galicia - an autonomous region of Spain with its own special culture and language of Galego (although Spanish is widely understood). Many people choose to walk just the last week from the mountain village of O Cebreiro (1310m) to Santiago still qualifying for their Pilgrim Certificate.
If you wish to walk more than just the last 100km please click here Do you wish to complete a lifelong ambition in walking part of the St James’ Way (el Camino) but have concerns about your ability to do so? This special version of the final week of the Camino walking into Santiago could be the trek for you!
Here we offer a 7 night holiday during which you complete the final 100km of the St James’ Way - all you need to walk to become an official Pilgrim in Santiago and qualifying for a Pilgrim Certificate. The days are shorter than the full version of this trek leaving you plenty of time to complete each day at your own pace and still have time to explore your destination before dinner.