Great Walking Holidays appeal to those who know the benefits to be gained from getting around on foot. This is when everything is experienced and appreciated without haste and using all the senses, imprinted in memory for a lifetime.
Those who savour the opportunities that arise when one isn't living in and out of a suitcase daily, or spending endless hours sightseeing by coach window will enjoy such a holiday. Staying in each locality for up to 3 or 4 days not only frees yourself with more time to get to know an area and its unique cultures but also provides you with time to relax and settle for a while, without the hassle of rigid time schedules.
The walks suggested cover 4 to 8 miles a day at a relaxed pace, along various terrains. None are overly strenuous and they have been specially chosen to accommodate both experienced walkers and those who enjoy a good stroll. There will be occasional hills but anyone reasonably fit should have no trouble negotiating them or any other aspects of the walks.
Main Tour Features
Guided Walks
Because each area you visit is unique, you can always bring in a local
guide for each of the special areas you visit. These guides are usually
directly involved in various associations and services that deal with
environmental studies and issues for the area and they bring to you their
good humour and a varied and fascinating knowledge of flora, fauna, geology,
history, archaeology and local customs. They are more than happy to discuss
all or any of these subjects as you travel and answer any questions you
may have.
Typical Day
On a typical day, after a hearty breakfast, you can arrange to be collected
by coach/taxi from your inn/hotel and dropped off at the starting point
of the days' walk. Throughout the day you will cover between 4 to 8 miles,
walking at a relaxed pace. There will be ample opportunities to stop and
take photographs, enjoy the varieties of wild flowers, wildlife and scenery
and explore the many archaeological and historical landmarks along the
way.
For lunch you can either picnic in a pretty countryside surrounding or
drop into a tranquil village to enjoy the services of the local tearooms
or village pub. At the end of the day you can arrange to be met by a coach/taxi
and transported back to your accommodation in time for a luxurious bath
or shower before the delights of a fine meal at dinner.
Accommodation
The Hotels and Inns you can chooce from throughout the suggested tours
can be centuries old and with that carry their own sense of historic beauty
and charm. Most locations have accommodations that are 3-and 4-star and
all rooms have en-suite facilities. Look for those providing excellent
choices of cuisine, including many local and traditional dishes to tempt
the taste buds. Above all, choose your Hotels and Inns for their comfort,
cleanliness, character and overall ambience, that offer a friendly atmosphere
with quality service. They are always located in lovely scenic surroundings,
making each stay unique and special.
Other Features
Transportation
A Mini Bus or taxi can be used for your transportation needs. Your Mini
Bus or taxi can stay with you for the duration of your trip giving you
great flexibility, allowing you to begin and end your walks where you
please, and not having to retrace your footsteps back to the car park.
Your Mini Bus or taxi would often be available during the course of each
day for those who would like to limit the amount of walking they do.
Equipment
There are certain items of equipment that will prove well worth having
on your trip. A pair of 'broken-in' walking boots, preferably with ankle
support and a good tread are essential, as is a waterproof jacket with
a hood. Also, a small day pack is useful for carrying a water bottle,
camera and extra sweater or fleece. Sunscreen and a hat may also be useful.
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All images on this site were taken on our walks and are copyright Great Walking Holidays Limited 2003
