Enjoy a Walking Holiday on the Amalfi Coast, Italy. Sometimes called the Sorrento Peninsula, the Amalfi coast is one of the most breathtaking coastlines in Europe. The Peninsula is a mountainous land of limestone cliffs and majestic scenery. These world-famous landscapes, home to many celebrities with sumptuous villas and private beaches, can be explored though a network of historical paths and ancient mule tracks, taking the walker from the fabulous sea shore to lesser-known areas where one gets a feel for authentic Italy. We cross citrus and olive groves and stop in picturesque villages and towns such as Ravello, up the hills in Lattari, or Positano by the sea.

Our team has specifically designed this itinerary in order to explore the truly amazing jewels of Amalfi, Ravello, Atrani and Positano. The walk, though steep at times, does not present any major technical difficulty and walking days are kept relatively short so you can enjoy the village at your own pace, stopping for a swim or a picnic as you wish. You can extend your stay at the end of the walk by spending additional days in Positano or Sorrento, perhaps stopping to explore the Punta Campanella or the romantic Ischia and Capri islands. In addition, you could visit the bustling city of Naples and historical Pompeii.

Day 1 – Amalfi
Once you have made your way to Amalfi by bus, you already have a good feel of what this coastline has to offer! And you won’t be disappointed. When you arrive, check into our cosy hotel in the historical centre and take a stroll through the picturesque web of backstreets and steps. You are greeted by whitewashed alleys, arches and a welcoming piazza…. This is the start of your holiday!

Town: Shops, Bus, ATM, Internet, Pharmacy, Pubs, Restaurants. Accommodation: 3* hotel centrally located. Rooms en-suite with views of the sea or the central piazza

Day 2 – Circular Walk Amalfi (3h45, 11km)
Today, we walk up through the Valle Dei Mulini (where paper mills date from the 13th Century) and reach a refreshingly shady forest with pretty waterfalls. The climb takes us to a small, “off-the-beaten-track” village, called Pontone where the views of Amalfi and Atrani are just spectacular. From Pontone, it is a short walk to historic and world-renowned Ravello (370m), once home to great artists like Wagner, Greta Garbo and DH Lawrence. We then descend to secret Atrani and back to Amalfi.

Town: Shops, Bus, ATM, Internet, Pharmacy, Pubs, Restaurants. Accommodation: 3* hotel centrally located. Rooms en-suite with views of the sea or the central piazza.

DAY 3 – To Praiano (5h00, 15km)
From Amalfi to Praiano, we walk on a historical mule track dating from the 9th Century. The path takes us along the coast, traversing villages and charming squares with their quiet, shaded churches. Then, it’s time for the spectacular fjord of Furore and the remote valley of Praia, which gives its name to the picturesque town of Praiano.

Town: Shops, Bus, ATM, Internet, Pharmacy, Pubs, Restaurants. Accommodation: 3* hotel centrally located. Rooms en-suite with views of the sea or central piazza.

DAY 4 – Circular Walk Praiano (3h15, 11km)
A short but moderately steep ascent takes us to the Grotto of Santa Barbara, carved into a cliff overlooking the sea a few hundred metres below. The small town of Bomerano is a good spot to rest, before walking along the famous “Sentiero Degli Dei” (Path of Gods), from which we can admire the island of Capri. The descent to Praiano is made using an impressive flight of stairs that offer unrivalled views of the entire Amalfi coast.

Town: Shops, Bus, ATM, Internet, Pharmacy, Pubs, Restaurants. Accommodation: 3* hotel centrally located. Rooms en-suite with views of the sea or the central piazza.

DAY 5 – To Positano (3h35, 9km)
From the narrow paved streets of Praiano, we ascend to the Sentiero Degli Dei (Path of Gods) via the Convent of Saint Dominico. Here, the famous path affords us some of the best views of the coast and nearby islands on one side, and looming peaks and cliffs on the other side. The extremely well preserved village of Nocelle (440m) will welcome you into its sinuous streets. From here, it’s only a short stroll to Montepurso, from which we descend into Positano itself, giving us the opportunity to travel through one of the most beautiful villages of the coast from the top of the hill to its heart by the sea.

Town: Shops, Bus, ATM, Internet, Pharmacy, Pubs, Restaurants. Accommodation: 3* hotel centrally located. Rooms en-suite with views of the sea or the central piazza.

DAY 6 – Circular Walk Positano (3h45, 11km)
The Circular walk will take us to a higher altitude, giving you the chance to breathe some fresh sea air. You can take a bus to Montepertuso (350m) to shorten the ascent, or you can start straight away from your hotel in Positano. There is an impressive natural arch supporting a rock wall on the way. We reach the top of the hill at Santa Maria (680m) where the walk continues though a forest of Cypress trees on the high path of the Lattrani mountains (805m). Then, it’s a zig zag descent to Positano where you can rest and enjoy a good meal and some well-deserved refreshments.

Town: Shops, Bus, ATM, Internet, Pharmacy, Pubs, Restaurants. Accommodation: 3* hotel centrally located. Rooms en-suite with views of the sea or central piazza.

DAY 7 – Positano
After breakfast, we bid you farewell. However, you can choose to extend your trip in incredible Amalfi – see our Options below for details.

Town: Shops, Bus, ATM, Internet, Pharmacy, Pubs, Restaurants. Accommodation: 3* hotel centrally located. Rooms en-suite with views of the sea or the central piazza.

You will stay 1 night in Marseille, in a 2* hotel in the old centre. Marseille is a lively city and you will be able to choose from 100 restaurants and bars whilst there.
The following 2 nights will be spent in the colourful and pretty village of Cassis, in a 2* hotel by the sea.

Day 1 – To Capiliera**
After flying to Malaga or Granada, you will have a chance to discover the magic of the Sierra Nevada from the typical village of Capiliera. Here, the white washed, flat-roofed houses are reminiscent of Morocco’s Berber architecture. You will be pre-booked in a spacious en-suite room. Tonight’s menu will include traditional Andalusian cuisine as well as other European dishes. Welcome to the valley of the Alpujarras!

Town: (659m, pop 440) Internet, ATM, shops, all facilities. Hotel: 3* hotel with spacious rooms, fantastic views and a swimming pool, situated in the heart of the town. En-suite. Meal: Dinner

Day 2 – Villages of Poqueira valley circular walk/Summit of the Mulhacen [5h,9km,+-762m], [3h45,9km,+-528m]
Today, as we are staying a 2nd night in Capileira, you have 2 options:
1-Villages of Poqueira valley circular
walk Travel along an old mule trail into the dramatic Barranco
de Poqueira (ravine). Here, the villages appear to cling to the sides of the deep valley. On the way you will find Puente Molino, the perfect spot for a picnic or a swim!
2-Summit of the Mulhacen Scale the Mulhacen (3450m),the highest peak in Spain. It starts with a short bus transfer (€8)to the base camp, then it’s a 4h30/5h return hike. The ascent is easy but should be attempted with care. On clear days you can even spot the Moroccan Atlas!

Town: (659m, pop 440) Internet, ATM, shops, all facilities. Hotel: 3* hotel with spacious rooms, fantastic views and a swimming pool, situated in the heart of the town. En-suite. Meal: Breakfast and dinner

DAY 3 – To Busquistar [3h, 9km, +188m, -524m]
The trail starts with a pleasant introduction to the contrasting landscapes of the Alpujarras; from agricultural pastures
to barren lands and wild valleys. Then we will follow an easy track down to the quiet and pretty village of Pitres (1243m). Just below is the famous “Taha”; five lovely hamlets named after the old Arabic administrative units into which Las Alpujarras were divided. We take the old Moorish trail down to the Taha. Here, evidence of a medieval silk trade can still be seen in the abundance of mulberry trees – the leaves of which provided food for the silk worms. Taha is famous for idyllic paths and exceptionally pretty villages, climaxing with the finest vantage point (mirador) in the valley – the Mezquita(1194m).

Town: Food shop. Hotel: beautiful, family-run hotel situated at the edge of the valley in a renovated Berber-style house. Includes a shaded balcony with views over Picon (1275m) and the valley. Meal: Breakfast and dinner

Las Alpujarras has its own unique weather system. Whereas on the coast the temperatures are fairly constant all year round, the combination of mountain air and valleys in Las Alpujarras make the weather more changeable. Summers are often hot and dry, with temperatures in excess of 30 degrees celsius. Rain and cloud is rare, but can occur at higher altitudes, however it never lasts long. Winters are still quite warm and relatively sunny during the day, but can be a lot colder at night after the sun has gone down. If visiting during this time, it is recommended you bring plenty of warm clothing. Both seasons have their advantages – a BBQ in the summer and an evening in-front of a roaring fire in the winter. The best time for walking in Las Alpujarras is from April to mid-June, and from mid-September to
mid-November.

Walking holidays in Cinque Terre, Italy. Quite possibly the most beautiful coastal walk in Europe, on the most magnificent part of the Italian Riviera. The Cinque Terre are five coastal, medieval, villages in the province of La Spezia: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. The coastline, the villages, and the surrounding hillsides are all part of a national park of the same name. The Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Walking through the National Park, you will discover the coastline as well as the backcountry: villages that cling to the cliffs, tiny sandy beaches and sandy coves as well as terraced fields and extensive woodlands. Given its location on the Mediterranean, only the freshest fish and seafood are good enough for the local cuisine. The anchovies of Monterosso are a local specialty, while the extensive terraced olive groves provide oil for some of the best pesto in Italy.
As this trip is centre based, you will be able to stay in the heart of the National park and explore the area as you wish (see “Cinque Terre Card” below).

To suit everybody’s taste and budget, we have selected 3 types of accommodation (see table of prices below):

• Self-catering apartment (2* standard) in Riomaggiore, including breakfast
• 3* hotel in Monterosso
• 4* hotel in Monterosso

You can extend your stay by adding as many extra nights in the Cinque Terre as you wish, or nights in Pisa, Genoa, Milan or Rome (depending on your flight schedule).

To the Cinque Terre (Monterosso or Riomaggiore)

Take a train to the Cinque Terre (see “How to get there” below) and check into your accommodation in the town of Monterosso or Riomaggiore (see “Options” below). If you arrive early enough, it would be possible to complete one of the shorter walks or alternatively, you could explore, rest or go for a swim.

Town: Shops, bus, ATM, Internet, pharmacy, pubs, restaurants. Accommodation: As you decide.

Riomaggiore – Monterosso (4h45, +/- 430m)

This is the famous Via Dell’Amore (Lovers’ Walk). This very picturesque footpath winds along the shore, past the five famous villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso. Pass by pretty terraced vineyards and olive groves.This walk varies in difficulty from an easy stroll to a demanding hike, but offers the best views of the bay and spectacular approaches to both Monterosso and Vernazza. If you feel tired, you can also take a train from any station along the way.

Town: Shops, bus, ATM, Internet, pharmacy, pubs, restaurants. Accommodation: As you decide.

Riomaggiore – Portovenere (5h00, +/- 515m)

This walk explores the remote Peninsula of Portovenere. We head south on a path going steeply uphill through extensive woodlands. Passing Campiglia, a pretty, traditional Ligurian village, we descend to Portovenere. From here, enjoy great views of “Isla Palmaria” and the little church sitting atop it. From Portovenere, you can travel back either by seasonal ferry, or by taking the bus to La Spezia and then a train to Cinque Terre.

Town: Shops, bus, ATM, Internet, pharmacy, pubs, restaurants. Accommodation: As you decide.

Circular walk Monterosso (4h00, +/- 601m)

This walk takes you through a fragrant lemon grove where you can enjoy sweeping views of the coast. Both the Etruscans and the Romans followed this path many hundreds of years ago. During the Middle Ages this mule track was of great importance, as it passed just in front of the historical sanctuary of Our Lady of Soviore.

Town: Shops, bus, ATM, Internet, pharmacy, pubs, restaurants. Accommodation: As you decide.

To Pisa

http://www.pisa-airport.com/index.php?lang=_en

20 major airlines fly to Pisa: Ryanair www.ryanair.com, easyJet www.easyjet.com, Air France www.airfrance.com, Alitalia www.alitalia.com, Lufthansa www.lufthansa.com, Sky Europe www.skyeurope.com amongst others.
From Pisa, there are frequent trains to the Cinque Terre (1hr30 approx) http://www.trenitalia.com/trenitalia.html

To Genoa
http://www.airport.genova.it/v2/
Ryanair www.ryanair.com, Air France www.airfrance.com, Alitalia www.alitalia.com, Lufthansa www.lufthansa.com and other airlines fly to Genoa.
From Genoa, there are frequent trains to the Cinque Terre (1hr30 approx) http://www.trenitalia.com/trenitalia.html

To Milan
Virtually all airlines fly to Milan’s airports.
From Milano Centrale (Milan’s main train station) there are regular trains to the Cinque Terre (3hrs). http://www.trenitalia.com/trenitalia.html

To Rome
Virtually all airlines fly to Rome.
From Rome Termini (Rome’s main train station) there are many trains to the Cinque Terre (5hrs), with a change in La Spezia http://www.trenitalia.com/trenitalia.html

These options give you the opportunity to couple your stay in the Cinque Terre with a visit to one of these historical towns/cities. All our hotels are centrally located, close to all amenities and sites of cultural interest. In addition, our accommodations are ideally situated with regards to airports and train stations. Depending on your flight schedule, an extra night/s in Pisa, Genoa, Milan or Rome may make your departure easier.

A Walking Holiday in Mallorca, Spain. Forget any preconceived notions about tacky tourist resorts and apartment blocks! We take you to the serene and unspoiled northern reaches of the island of Mallorca.

The Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza) are situated in the middle of the Mediterranean sea. Visitors to these islands enjoy an excellent climate, pristine beaches, razor sharp mountains and an abundance of natural beauty. Mallorca, the largest island, is THE perfect hiking destination. Discover Mallorca’s Sierra Tramuntana with One Foot Abroad.

This trip will bring you to the top of the highest accessible summit in Mallorca. Traverse olive groves and almond orchards, walk through fields and admire picturesque fishing villages.

Leave us to look after your accommodation, meals and luggage transportation. Discover the real Mallorca – a world apart from the tourist resorts.

DAY 1 – Coming to Mallorca.
After your flight to Palma, you will be pre-booked in a refuge in the picturesque village of Pollenca. This refuge was completed in November 2007, and offers modern facilities, comfortable shared rooms and good food.

Town: Food shop, ATM, Internet Refuge: Very spacious & comfortable shared rooms with hot water, as well as a peaceful garden with views of the river. Meal: Dinner.

DAY 2 - From Pollenca to Lluc (4h30, 13km, +500m, -100m)
From orchards to mountains. From the refuge, we take a path along the “Routa de Pedras”, an old stone road. During the first 2 hours we traverse groves – the trees dripping with oranges, olives and figs. Then, entering the woods, the trail climbs up to a pass with an unique view of the Pollenca peninsulas. Finally, sloping down gently through some meadows, we come to the Plateau of Saint Lluc.

Town, Lluc: Shop open every day except Mondays Accommodation: Shared rooms in a brand new refuge. Great views of Mt Tomir, Mt Massanella and the Pollenca valley. Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner

DAY 3 – Lluc to Tossal Verde (5h, 14km, +740m, -672m)
Today, below looming Mt Massanella, we start a descent through the woods where you will see the ruins of an old village, complete with bread ovens and many sitjas (pits to burn charcoal). After climbing constantly for 2 hours into the woods, we arrive at a small platform with fantastic views over the southern coast of the island. Coming down into a forest of conifers and pasture in narrow valleys, we reach our refuge for tonight. Note: At the refuge, the keeper grows vegetables and has a couple of donkeys.

Town: No village tonight, just a remote mountain refuge. Enjoy the solitude! Accommodation: Shared rooms. Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner

DAY 4 – Tossal Verde to Port Soller (6h, 20km, +532m, -1100m)
Cuber, heart of the Tramuntana. From the Cuber lake we make our way through the mountains, going down through a narrow gorge on a cobbled path. The gorge is covered with terraced fields, similar to those in Nepal. Then, from Soller we take the wooden train (3, not included) to the cove of the sea port village of “Puerto Soller”. Options: Puig Ofre [1098m] +1h00 & +/-550m, Mirador +1h30 +/- 500m

Town: Beaches, ATM, food shop, Internet, all facilities. Accommodation: Shared rooms in a refuge, 100m from the light house. Great views of the coast and the Tramuntana range behind. Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner

Walking Holiday in La Gomera, Canaries, Spain. La Gomera, or “The Round island”, is the ultimate get-away-from-it-all island; easy-going, unspoiled, friendly and isolated from the hustle and bustle of modern living. This place is so laid back it’s virtually supine – even the internet seems to operate on a similar time-scale!

The walks, however, are a bit more energetic. Like a meringue topped with green icing; it’s a nightmare for road builder but a paradise for hikers!

DAY 1 – Coming to La Gomera.
After your flight to Tenerife and a short ferry ride to San Sebastian, you will arrive in La Gomera.

Town: Biggest town on the island, ATM, food shops. Accommodation: 2* hotel in the heart of town, 5min from the beach. Rooms en-suite.

DAY 2 – vallehermoso “the Beautiful valley” (5h50, 17km, +580m, -570m).
After a short transfer to Agulo, you take a superb footpath zigzagging up the cliff. As you are going up you can see “Teide” (3700m) Tenerife’s (and Spain’s) highest peak. Coming to the plateau, you follow a remote dirt track and a small country road to the Garajonay Visitor Center. Here, you’ll have the chance to learn about the island’s unique eco-system, listed in the UNESCO catalogue! After the village of Las Rosas, we follow a ridge to the dramatic Roque Cano (Protean Rock) that dominates the entire valley. The flora today consists of different kinds of bushes, pine trees, Cactus plants and their tasty fruits!Be sure to sample the superb local sea-food. Try the Chocos; squid, potatoes and a spicy sauce made of garlic, chilli-peppers and parsley or coriander!

Town: 2nd Largest town in the islands, Internet, ATM, several lively bars. Accommodation: Popular 2* apart-hotel, features large courtyard with plants. Rooms en-suite. Meals: Breakfast.

DAY 3 – The Cloud Forest (5h45, 16km, +881m, -61m)
We start hiking up along a ridge, with views behind of the fabulous vallehermosso (beautiful valley) and the whole of Tenerife. Coming to Mt Arana (1111m) you can enjoy the fantastic vista of the all north and west of the island. Next you will pass enter the heart of Garajonay, a centuries-old and pleasantly shady Laurel-Silva forest. The rest of the day is quite flat and, staying around 1000m, you will pass the “Barranco del Rey”, above steep ravines. Vegetation today is dominated by the unique Laurel-Silva.

Town: ATM, bars, restaurant, Shops. Accommodation: Very friendly hotel, owned by a local family, features superb views. Rooms en suite. Meal: Breakfast

DAY 4 – To the beach (3h55, 12km, -1090m)
Today is optional, but we strongly recommend that you go to see valle Gran Rey – the most beautiful place in the Canaries.
We start by walking through a remote valley, inhabited only by goats and geckos. After passing a tiny church, we go down the ravine following the GR 132 path, and up towards the Tequergenche cliffs, where the views are astonishing. Here you will have the option to walk to “Las Pilas”, a popular view point, then on to “El Hiero” and “La Palmas” (1hr30 return). For those who want to swim, you can take a zigzagging footpath straight down the cliffs with superb views of the valley on the way. Although the sand is black, the beach is a real jewel.
Then you can come back by bus or taxi to the hotel!

Town: Same as yesterday. Accommodation: Same as yesterday Meal: Breakfast.

All hotels have been selected for their comfort, friendliness & character, as much as for the quality of their cuisine. They are subject to availabilities. If the hotel described is not available, we provide you with the same standard of comfort & price.

The starters: Consist of soups or salads. Olives are everywhere!
Main courses: Mostly sea-food, but you can find chicken, pork, and goat too! They are always served with salad and Mojos. (Mojos are just delicious! They arespicy sauces made of garlic, chilli-peppers and parsley or coriander!Probably the most memorable food experience!)
Deserts: Ice-creams, cakes, flans.
Wines: The island grows very good table wine… white is more abundant than red. However most of the restaurants and bar will serve you imported Tenerife wine. So if you want to try local, ask them!

Luggage transported by us from hotel to hotel. During The Day you only carry your day pack!

• Price Year Round €690
• Single room supplement €150
• Solo departure fee €190
• Extra night in San Sebastian 3*
  -Double/Twin: +€50pps
  -Single: +€70pps

A Walking Holiday in Cyprus. Cyprus is a haven for the nature lover. Its wide variety of landscapes from the dunes of the sun-baked coastland, to the snowy peaks of the Troodos Mountains is home to an astounding number of flora and fauna species. There are 8 main areas to explore, each with its own trails.

We have designed this trip in order to give you the best insight to the island’s unspoiled parts: from the high forested Troodos Mountains to the Mediterranean Akamas mountains with olive trees. Our hotels are very comfortable and modern with a special focus on character. As we provide you with a rental car with unlimited mileage, feel free to explore the island at your own pace!

Day 2 – Pitsilia area: This is a mountainous region east of Troodos. The area is covered with natural pine forests and golden oaks. The main products of this area are apples, pears, cherries, peaches, grapes and vegetables.
Day 3-4-5 – Troodos National Forest Park: At the centre of the island, the Troodos National Park covers an area of 9337 hectares. Over 700 plant species have been recorded here, making this park an important centre for botanists and their studies. In addition, the area’s geology is of world-wide importance and the rich flora of the area includes rare plants, like the Lefkara Astragalus, which are strictly protected by the Bern Convention.
Day 5 – Stavros tis Psokas: West of Troodos, explore the most beautiful pine forest on the island and the well-known Cedar valley.
Day 6 – Akamas: This is the easternmost point of the three major flora zones of Europe. Here, the number of plant species alone amounts to 600. Akamas is said to have been named after the son of Theseus who came to the island and founded Akamantis. According to mythology, Akamas was also the place where Aphrodite and Adonis had their love trysts. It is an area of outstanding natural beauty, and is ideal for walking.

Day 1 – To Agros**
After collecting your car at the airport, you will be pre-booked in a traditional 3* hotel in the heart of the town, and the restaurant downstairs is one of the best in the province! We recommend a visit to Agros – check out the sweet factory, the rose factory (for liquors, perfumes, and other products), and the sausage factory too!

Village: ATM, shops. Accommodation: friendly 3* hotel, 300m from the center of the town. Swimming pool, sauna, gym, Jacuzzi, rooms en-suite. This hotel is mindful of its social responsibilities and employs only local people.

Day 2 – Pitsilia Area (6h, 15km, +/-640m).
A very scenic day in the mountainous region east of Troodos. We will begin amongst vineyards and olive groves, before starting a steady climb up to the summit of “Adelfoi” (1640m). Views over the eastern plains and Mt Olympus are stunning! On our descent along the E4 (a long-distance trail crossing the island from east to west), we pass the villages of Saranti and Lagoudera. Here, you will have the chance to visit the 15th-century church “Panagia Tou Araka”, and maybe even the sausage factory too! Then it’s back through the vineyards to our hotel

Village: Same as yesterday Accommodation: Same as yesterday Meal: Breakfast

DAY 3 – Kalidonia Trails (4h45, 16km, +/-511m )
One of the best walks in the Troodos Mountains, through oak and pine forests. From the upper edge of the town, we enter the forest along a small stream. The footpath is narrow and shaded and brings us to the “Kalidonia Waterfalls”, the perfect spot for break. Next we head to the presidential summer house with its great views on Chantara valley. Finally, with some excellent views of the mountains to the north, we follow a balcony trail down to the village.

Village, Platres: Shops, ATM, Internet and PUB! Accommodation: Friendly, family-run 2* hotel in the centre of the village. En-suite. Meal: Breakfast

DAY 4 – Atlanti trail (5h, 17km, +/-300m)
Today our path begins in Troodos town (1750m) – the highest in Cyprus! This circular path takes you around the highest peak, “Mt Olympus” (1950m). It also gives you the chance to discover the unique flat-top pine trees. On a clear day, enjoy 360deg views of the island and maybe spot Turkey in the distance too! Here the air is thin, but the trail is relatively easy.

Village, Platres: Same as yesterday Accommodation: Same as yesterday Meal: Breakfast

DAY 5 – The Cedar valley (4h, 11km, +/-560m)
It’s a short drive to the heart of the Cedar valley with its elegant but strange-looking trees.
From the car park, we follow another part of the famous “E4″ uphill through the thick Cedar forest to the summit of “Tripylos” (1362m), the highest peak in the area. Here you will get unrivalled views into the steep valley, and the coast of Lemesos. Also, you will have the chance to stop for a picnic lunch along the stream. Finally, either choose to follow the narrow asphalt road back to the car park, or simply retrace your steps along the footpath.

Town, Polis: Shops, ATM. Accommodation: 3* hotel on the beach. Sustainability matters! The hotel has 36 hectares for growing its own organic products. It also generates a percentage of its electricity and recycles water. The dog ” Ares” is the hotel’s macot. Meal: Breakfast

DAY 6 – Akamas (4.5h, 9km, +640m)
Depending on the time of year this walk can be a little hot. We start at Aphrodite’s bath, where the Greek goddess supposedly met with Adonis. Then it is an easy climb uphill to the “Pyrgos Tis Rigenas”, and “Mouti tis Sotiras”, a peak overlooking the sea for beautiful views. Akamas’s Natural trails are particularly spectacular with more than 600 species of flowers. After the walk, it’s on to Larnaka for well deserved beer!

Village, Tochni: Shops. Accommodation: Large self-catering apartment in a traditional house. Balcony and swimming pool! Meal: Breakfast

DAY 7 – Tochni, end of the trip**
After breakfast we bid you farewell. It takes approximately 30 minutes to get to the airport.
Alternatively, if you wish to stay a little bit longer on the island, we can arrange this for you. See below.

Meal: Breakfast

OPTIONAL DAYS

– Night in Paphos – (2h, 6km, +/- 150m). Walk in the superb “Avakas Gorges”, (day 6).

-
Night in Ayia Napa – (3h30, 10km, +/- 100m). Visit the magnificent “Cape Greco” peninsula with its sea caves and the tiny “Elias” church carved into the cliffs. Later today, walk along the sand bar between the lagoons at Nissi beach (day 6 or 7).

Towns, Paphos and Ayia Napa: Internet, ATM, shops, all facilities. Hotels: 3* Hotels, en-suite. Meal: Breakfast

The Ayia Napa Sea Monster is a cryptid, claimed to inhabit the coast off Ayia Napa in Cyprus, a popular tourist resort in the Mediterranean. Most sightings occur around Cape Greco. It is known by the local fishermen as “O Filikos Teras”, which translates to “the friendly monster”. There have been no reports of it causing any harm, although it has been reported at times to rip and drag away fishing nets. There is no evidence that the monster actually exists, except in folklore and through various sightings by tourists and locals alike. There exists little photographic evidence, except unverified short-films and pictures. Many believers of the myth of the Ayia Napa Sea Monster like to link it with the mythical sea monster of Greek mythology called Skylla, which is depicted in the mosaics that remain in the House of Dionysus, a Roman villa from the 3rd century AD in Paphos, Cyprus. Regardless of the fact that its existence has not been scientifically proven, the hope of spotting the Ayia Napa Sea Monster remains a highlight for many tourists on boating day-trips.

Our hotels have been carefully selected for their comfort, location, friendliness and character, and are subject to availability. If the hotel described is not available, we will provide you with alternative lodgings of the same standard and price.

A Walking Holiday in Corsica, France. Though Corsica has been governed by France for over 200 years, the island maintains a distinctly ‘Corsican’ identity. Corscians take pride in their native customs, language (Corsu) and traditions, not to mention their entirely unique landscape.

In many ways, Corsica resembles a miniature continent; with 1000km of sea-swept coast line, mountain ranges that stay snow-capped until July, a world-renowned marine reservation, an inhabited desert (Agriates) and a continental divide running down the centre of the island!

Much of the island is covered by maquis, a typical Corsican shrub-like vegetation used for fragrances and cooking. Just a single day’s walk can carry you through a kaleidoscopic landscape of secret coves, booming waterfalls, plunging canyons, sweeping bays, megalithic menhirs and dense chestnut and pine forests. Away from the holiday resorts you will discover quiet fishing villages, remote mountain towns and deserted beaches.

This walking holiday is inspired by one of the great classics of Corsica, the Mare e Monti. We have selected on this walking holiday the most beautiful maritme stages ranging from Calvi to Porto. With forests and Corsican maquis, opportunities for swimming in the crystal clear natural river pools, unspoilt cricks, everything is combined here to make this holiday an unforgettable memory!

On a Self-Guided tour, we provide you with focused maps and very detailed walking notes describing the route step-by-step. Navigation is made easy. The walking notes also enclose information about the culture, the flora & fauna, places of interest along the way and good restaurants for lunch!

Luggage is transported by us from hotel to hotel. During the walk, you only carry your day pack!

DAY 1 – Calvi to Bonifatu (4h45, +590m -287m).

Transfer from Calvi to Calenzana, the land of olive trees, where we start the hike. Today’s landmarks are the numerous rivers we will cross over as well as the stunning scenic views over typical Corsican villages.

Town: all facilities.
Accomodation: Private room.
Meal: Dinner.

DAY 2 – Bonifatu a Tuarelli (6h, +664m -1100m).

Leaving Bonifatu, we enter the beautiful oak and pine forests and we then climb up to a pass at 1200m above see level. Shortly after we get to Bocca di Bonassa with a natural spring close by. The trail then heads down through more woodlands, crossing over a few streams, and heading towards Tuarelli. After this walking day, Tuarelli is the ideal spot to chill out and relax in its natural fresh water springs.

Town: all facilities
Accomodation: Refuge.
Meal: Breakfast & dinner.

DAY 3 – Tuarelli to Galeria (4h45, +220m -271m).

This beautiful walking day brings us closer to the see and the Gulf of Galeria. We will walk through low wall lined crop fields and we then enter the famous Corsican maquis. Surrounded by juniper and arbutus, we then walk along the river before reaching old sheepfolds and Galeria. Galeria is on the mediteranean seaside so you could go for a swim to relax after your walking day!

Town: all facilities.
Accomodation: Private rooms.
Meals: Breakfast & dinner.

When a private room is not available, bedrooms comprise of 4 or 6 beds (unless stated othwerwise). Bed linen and towels may not be provided at each accommodation so it is better to take them with you in case. Also, a sleeping bag can be useful and save you taking bed linen.

• To Corsica: Air France fly from Paris to Calvi. Air France, BA, Easyjet fly to Ajaccio from Ireland & UK, Easyjet fly from London, Manchester, Bristol to Bastia. Ryanair fly to Figari.

BRAND NEW CHARTER FLIGHT TO CORSICA FOR 2011

SIMPSON TRAVEL IN CONJUNCTION WITH BRITISH MIDLAND AIRWAYS HAVE LAUNCHED A NEW SERVICE FOR SUMMER 2011 FROM LONDON HEATHROW TO FIGARI. FULL FLIGHT DETAILS AS FOLLOWS :

SUNDAYS 29 MAY – 25 SEPTEMBER 2011

FLIGHT DEPARTS LONDON HEATHROW TERMINAL 1 : 0940

ARRIVES FIGARI : 1250

DEPARTS FIGARI : 1335

FLIGHT ARRIVES LONDON HEATHROW TERMINAL 1 : 1445

FLIGHT PRICES FROM £209 PER PERSON AND INCLUDES :

ALL PAX TAXES BOTH IN THE UK AND OVERSEAS

AN INCREASED BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE OF 23KGS PP

IN-FLIGHT MEALS

PRE-SEATING TOGETHER ON THE AIRCRAFT

call Corsica department on 0208 392 5858 or email corsicaflights@simpsontravel.com

• To the Beginning of the Adventure: Calvi

Option 1: From Calvi

Taxi from airport to city centre

Option 2: From Ajaccio

By bus: Ajaccio to Calvi with connection in Porto.Departure at 7.30am. For more information, see http://www.corsicabus.org/Bus_services.html

By train: Ajaccio to Calvi with connection in Corte or Ponte-Leccia. 2 departures/day. For more information, see http://www.corsicabus.org/Train_services/Train5AjaCly.html

By car: it is possible to rent a car from Ajaccio airport for a day and drop it in Calvi. Car hire providers can be easily found on the internet.

Option 3: From Bastia

By bus: Bastia to Calvi. 1 departure/day. For more information, see http://www.corsicabus.org/busCalvi/CLY_Bastia.html

By train: Bastia to Calvi with connection in Ponte-Leccia. 3 departures/day. For more information, see http://www.corsicabus.org/Train_services/Train3BiaCly.html

By car: it is possible to rent a car from Bastia airport for a day and drop it in Calvi. Car hire providers can be easily found on the internet.

• Back home from Porto

Option 1: To Calvi

By bus: Departure at 10.00am. For more information, see http://www.corsicabus.org/busCalvi/CLY_Porto.html

Option 2: To Ajaccio

By bus: 2 departures/day. For more information, see http://www.corsicabus.org/busAjaccio/AJA_Cargese_Po.html

Option 3: To Bastia

By bus: Porto to Bastia with connection in Ajaccio or Calvi. For more information, see http://www.corsicabus.org/busBastia/index.html

A Walking Holiday in Catalonia, France and Spain. This walk crosses the border between France and Spain, where the foothills of the Pyrenees fall into the Mediterranean sea. The Vermilion Coast (C´te Vermeille) and the Costa Brava form the most dramatic part of the Catalan coastline; stretching from Perpignan in France to Tarragona, just south of Barcelona in Spain.
Set against terraced vineyards on the surrounding hillsides, turquoise waters ebb and flow in small rocky coves & sleepy little ports that once thrived on sardine and anchovy fishing. The harbour towns of Collioure (the birthplace of Fauvism painting), Banyuls, Port de la Selva and Port Creus, are some of the highlights in this region where the kings of Mallorca once had their summer residences.

DAY 1 – Coming to Collioure*. After your flight to Girona or Perpignan, you will travel to Collioure – a picturesque old fishing village. We will book you into our specially selected 2-star hotel in the heart of town, close to all facilities and 5 minutes from the sea. You may witness the boisterous local card game of “belotte” here!

Town: Internet, ATM, shops, all facilities. Hotel: 2* hotel with character in the centre of the town, en-suite. A/C. Close to the beach.

DAY 2 – Tour Madaloc. Today you have 2 options:

1-Tour Madaloc [6h, 15km, +/-656m]. It is a long ascent to the Tour Madeloc (656m), but there are plenty of places to have a break and admire the beautiful “Cote de Vermeille” (Vermilion Coast). Coming down along the famous GR10 (a long-distance trail that crosses the Pyrenees), you can admire the small creeks, hidden beaches and turquoise waters.

2-Cap Bear [6h, 15km, +/-230m]. First we climb to the old “Fort Sant Elme” to admire the coastline. Then it’s a rocky walk along the cliffs of the Cap Bear to the massive light house. The rest of the walk is through the vineyard. In Banyuls, a village at the foothills of the Pyrenees, don’t miss the aquarium, the local sweet wine and of course a swim!

Town: Internet, ATM, shops, all facilities. Hotel: 2* hotel “Logis de France”, 5mins from the beach. The restaurant has an excellent reputation & it has 2-star Michelin rating. Room en-suite. A/C. Meal: Breakfast, dinner.

DAY 3 – The border [5h, 13km, +437m -437m]. From our village at sea level, we walk up to the Pic Joan (437m), for a magnificent view of the coastline. Here we are only a couple of metres from Spain! Going down through the vines and scrub, we arrive in Portbou in the afternoon, just in time for a swim in the clear Mediterranean waters! Not to be missed in Portbou – the “@rt Cafe” to drink freshly squeezed orange juice!

Town: Internet, ATM, shops, all facilities. Hotel: 2* hotel overlooking the sea. The Manager, Montserat, has a very impressive collection of masks from Bali. They are exhibited in the hall. Room en-suite. A/C. Meal: Breakfast, dinner.

Our hotels have been carefully selected for their comfort, location, friendliness and character, and are subject to availability. If the hotel described is not available, we will provide you with alternative lodgings of the same standard and price.

Meals are on a half board basis. Lunch can be either taken in a restaurant along the way or picnic lunches can be purchased in the local food shops in the villages. Either way, we recommend that you take some food with you during your walk!

Luggage is transported by us from hotel to hotel. During the walk, you only carry your day pack!