WalkingWomeWalkingWomenn • • • • Women’s walking&activityholidaysworldwide Enjoy walksinthecompany of otherwomen Your holiday guaranteed or your money back We organiseeverything – youjustturn up Small friendlygroups–all women welcome Guided walks for alllevelsoffitness and visit beautiful partsof the world WalkingWomen www.walkingwomen.com FOR MOREINFORMATION VISIT: 2018
WalkingWomen 2018
WalkingWomen is about making wonderful walks accessible for all women: un-pressured walking in beautiful scenery, or challenge and adventure if that’s what you want; attractive and affordable places to stay to suit a range of tastes and budgets. Most of all, it’s about the fun of walking with a group of other women. Our office staff; Sue Donovan, Clare Kelly and Fiona Clark look forward to hearing from you with your bookings – and getting to know you in the future – old WW friends and new! Thank you for your suggestions and your continued support. We continue to bring you a great range of holidays at exceptional value for money; we always compare our holidays and price with other companies. We’re looking forward to walking with you soon. When you book with WalkingWomen you get: • a professional guide to show you walks you might otherwise miss • to visit fantastic places, many of which are only accessible on foot • good quality and value accommodation (from simple to luxury) • packed lunches to take on the walks and often other meals too • fun and companionship of walking in a group; chance to make new friends • support and challenge • proven health benefits from walking in the countryside • everything organised for you; you just turn up! • your holiday guaranteed – or your money back What’s new this year • Natural History in Croatia; A Summer holiday in the French Alps • A new section of the South West Coast Path in Cornwall • A Dogs Welcome holiday on the Norfolk Coast • Literary-themes: Beatrix Potter’s Lake District and Hardy Country in Dorset • Yoga in Crete; Wild swimming in Eskdale • High Level Poland and new food holidays in Catalonia and Tuscany • Lesbian Breaks in Lesvos and Llangollen Where to find all the details Page 30 WalkingWomen – General Information Page 3 Holiday Calendar Page 7 Lake District Page 9 Northern England: Northumberland, Yorkshire Dales & Moors Page 11 English Midlands: Peak District Page 12 South & East England: Cotswolds, Chilterns, Wiltshire, Sussex, Norfolk Page 14 South West England / Channel Islands: Somerset, Dorset, Devon, Cornwall, Guernsey Page 16 Wales: Pembrokeshire, Gower, Llangollen, Wye Valley Page 17 Scotland: Mull, Arran, Glencoe Page 18 Europe A–Z Page 24 Rest of the World A–Z Page 5 Special Interest: Photography, Yoga, Natural History, Swimming, Dogs Welcome, Skiing Page 6 Lesbian Holidays Page 27 WalkingWomen Guides & Office Staff Page 34 Booking Conditions & Contact Details 2 Brochure Please help us to protect the environment and manage costs by letting us know if you don’t need a printed copy. You can see the whole programme on our website and download it to your computer to use at your leisure (and print if you like!). Join the WalkingWomen Community on Facebook to connect with other WalkingWomen and share your photos, get tips and arrange to share transport to holidays. We have over 13,000 members. Please join us and help to make your online community vibrant. http://www.facebook.com/WalkingWomen1 You can also subscribe to our newsletter, which is absolutely FREE and provides news, offers, competitions and useful tips. To subscribe, click on the Newsletter Sign Up link on the Home page of our website at www.walkingwomen.com Email: [email protected] Web: www.walkingwomen.com
Holiday Calendar 2018
It’s important to choose a holiday that matches your level of fitness – for your enjoyment and everyone else’s; so please read our Grade Descriptions on our website or call us on +44 (0)114 241 2774 before you book. January/February/March 13-27 Jan (Sat-Sat) Gentle Costa Rica Birdlife and Wildlife...... Page 24 27 Jan-3 Feb (Sat-Sat) Intermediate French Alps Winter Multi Activity...... Page 19 10-14 Feb (Sat-Wed) Low Intermediate Grasmere...... Page 7 12-16 Feb (Mon-Fri) Intermediate Peak District ...... Page 11 19-23 Feb (Mon-Fri) Gentle Borrowdale ...... Page 8 24 Feb-3 Mar (Sat-Sat) Intermediate Dolomites Skiing...... Page 21 3-7 Mar (Sat-Wed) Gentle Norfolk, Dogs Welcome – NEW!...... Page 13 9-11 Mar (Fri-Sun) Gentle Chilterns Weekend 1...... Page 13 10-17 Mar (Sat-Sat) Norway Cross Country Skiing ...... Page 22 17-24 Mar (Sat-Sat) Intermediate Andorra Skiing ...... Page 18 17-26 Mar (Sat-Mon) High Int. Jebel Sahro Trek, Morocco ...... Page 25 17-24 Mar (Sat-Sat) Intermediate Tenerife...... Page 24 19-23 Mar (Mon-Fri) Low Intermediate Quantock Hills 1...... Page 14 24-27 Mar (Sat-Tue) Gentle Wye Valley...... Page 16 30 Mar-3 Apr (Fri-Tue) Yorkshire Dales Easter Lesbian Break...... Page 11 31 Mar-14 Apr (Sat-Sat) Intermediate Nepal...... Page 25
April 2-9 Apr (Mon-Mon) Low Int Turkish Coast Walking & Sailing...... Page 24 7-11 Apr (Sat-Wed) Gentle Gower, Dogs Welcome...... Page 16 9-13 Apr (Mon-Fri) Very Gentle Northumbrian Coast 1...... Page 9 12-15 Apr (Thu-Sun) Low Intermediate Clarendon Way ...... Page 12 21-25 Apr (Sat-Wed) Gentle Hadrian’s Wall 1...... Page 10 21-27 Apr (Sat- Fri) Low Intermediate Guernsey, Channel Islands ...... Page 15 21-28 Apr (Sat-Sat) Low Intermediate Lesbian Lesvos, Greece – NEW!...... Page 21 28 Apr-5 May (Sat-Sat) Intermediate Peloponnese, Greece...... Page 20 28 Apr-5 May (Sat-Sat) Low Intermediate Mallorca ...... Page 23
3 May 5-9 May (Sat-Wed) High Intermediate Yorkshire Three Peaks...... Page 19 5-9 May (Sat-Wed) High Grasmere, Lake District...... Page 7 5-11 May (Sat-Fri) Gentle Isle of Arran, Scotland...... Page 17 5-12 May (Sat-Sat) Gentle Croatia Natural History – NEW!...... Page 11 7-11 May (Mon-Fri) Intermediate North Devon...... Page 15 7-12 May (Mon-Sat) Low Intermediate County Clare, Ireland...... Page 18 12-19 May (Sat-Sat) Low Int. Mull and Hebridean Islands...... Page 17 12-20 May (Sat-Sun) Long Distance Camino de Santiago, Spain ...... Page 23 21-27 May (Mon-Sun) High Level Glencoe, Scotland...... Page 18 21-25 May (Mon-Fri) Gentle Norfolk Coast Walking & Bird Watching...... Page 13 26-30 May (Sat-Wed) Low Intermediate Gower...... Page 16 28 May-1 Jun (Mon-Fri) Long Distance SW Coast Path 4 NEW!...... Page 15
June 2-9 Jun (Sat-Sat) Intermediate Les Freissinieres, French Alps – NEW!...... Page 19 3-10 Jun (Sun-Sun) Low Intermediate Walk and Taste Tuscany – NEW!...... Page 21 8-10 Jun (Fri-Sun) Gentle Rye 1...... Page 13 9-13 Jun (Sat-Wed) Intermediate Exmoor 1 ...... Page 14 9-15 Jun (Sat-Fri) Low Intermediate Copenhagen and Beyond ...... Page 19 11-16 Jun (Mon-Sat) Gentle Pembroke Coast Birdlife and Nature ...... Page 16 15-18 Jun (Fri-Mon) Gentle Whitby Walking and Yoga...... Page 10 16-29 Jun (Sat-Fri) Gentle Swaziland Wildlife and Safari...... Page 26 21-25 Jun (Thu-Mon) Very Gentle Beatrix Potter’s Lake District – NEW!...... Page 8 22 Jun-1 Jul (Fri-Sun) Long Distance Hadrian’s Wall Trek...... Page 10 26 Jun-3 Jul (Tue-Tue) Low Intermediate Dolomites Natural History...... Page 22 29 Jun-1 Jul (Fri-Sun) Low Intermediate Chilterns Weekend...... Page 13
July 2-5 Jul (Mon-Thu) Gentle North York Moors – Dogs Welcome...... Page 10 7-11 Jul (Sat-Wed) Intermediate Dartmoor...... Page 14 7-14 Jul (Sat-Sat) Low Int. and High Int. Lesbian Andorra...... Page 18 14-18 Jul (Sat-Wed) Low Int. Hardy Country, Dorset – NEW!...... Page 14 16-20 Jul (Mon-Fri) Low Intermediate Skipton, North Yorkshire...... Page 11 21-26 Jul (Sat-Thu) Gentle Northumbrian Coast...... Page 9 22-26 Jul (Sun-Thu) Low Intermediate Llangollen, Wales...... Page 17 27-29 Jul (Fri-Sun) Low Int. Hartington Weekend 1, Peak District...... Page 12 29 Jul-2 Aug (Sun-Thu) Int. Borrowdale Walking & Wild Swimming...... Page 8
August 4 – 8 Aug (Sat-Wed) Intermediate Malham, Yorkshire Dales ...... Page 11 5-10 Aug (Sun-Fri) Summer Lakes Lesbian Break...... Page 8 10-13 Aug (Fri-Mon) Low Intermediate Wye Valley...... Page 16 11-15 Aug (Sat-Wed) Gentle Hadrian’s Wall 2...... Page 10 18-22 Aug (Sat-Wed) Low Int. High Force and Durham Dales...... Page 9 19-23 Aug (Sun-Thu) Low Int. Eskdale Walking & Wild Swimming – NEW!...... Page 8 24-27 Aug (Fri-Mon) Gentle Grasmere Walking and Yoga...... Page 7 24-27 Aug (Fri-Mon) Gentle Salisbury City Break...... Page 12
4 September 1-7 Sep (Sat-Fri) Long Distance St Oswald’s Way Part 1 – NEW!...... Page 9 1-8 Sep (Sat-Sat) High Level Poland – NEW!...... Page 22 8-14 Sep (Sat-Fri) Low Intermediate Arran, Scotland...... Page 17 8-15 Sep (Sat-Sat) Low Intermediate Croatia...... Page 19 14-16 Sep (Fri-Sun) Low Int. Hartington Weekend 2, Peak District...... Page 12 16-23 Sep (Sun-Sun) Intermediate Tuscany, Italy...... Page 21 17-21 Sep (Mon-Fri) Low Intermediate Quantock Hills 2...... Page 14 21-23 Sep (Fri-Sun) Gentle Chilterns Weekend 2...... Page 13 22-29 Sep (Sat-Sat) Gentle Isle of Mull, Scotland...... Page 17 23-30 Sep (Sun-Sun) Low Int. Peloponnese, Greece History & Culture...... Page 20 29 Sep-3 Oct (Sat-Wed) Very Gentle Northumbrian Coast 2...... Page 9
October 1-5 Oct (Mon-Fri) Intermediate Exmoor 2...... Page 14 5-7 Oct (Fri-Sun) Low Int North Cotswolds Weekend ...... Page 12 6-10 Oct (Sat-Wed) Gentle Norfolk Coast Walking & Bird Watching 2...... Page 13 6-13 Oct (Sat-Sat) Gentle Crete Walking & Yoga – NEW!...... Page 20 6-15 Oct (Sat-Mon) High Alpine Kilimanjaro Trek...... Page 26 12-14 Oct (Fri-Sun) Gentle Rye Weekend 2 ...... Page 13 13-20 Oct (Sat-Sat) Low Int. Walk and Taste Catalonia, Spain – NEW!...... Page 23 20-24 Oct (Sat-Wed) Gentle & Low Int. Lesbian Llangollen – NEW!...... Page 17 22-26 Oct (Mon-Fri) Gentle Borrowdale Photography, Lake District...... Page 8 22-26 Oct (Mon-Fri) Low Intermediate Hadrian’s Wall...... Page 10
November, December 3-10 Nov (Sat-Sat) Gentle Algarve Wildlife and Bird Watching, Portugal...... Page 22 5-9 Nov (Mon-Fri) Gentle Gower...... Page 16 10-17 Nov (Sat-Sat) Low Intermediate Algarve, Portugal – NEW! ...... Page 23 17-26 Nov (Sat-Mon) Intermediate Sri Lanka Multi Activity ...... Page 26 19-29 Nov (Mon-Thu) Gentle Culture and Wildlife of Rajasthan, India ...... Page 25 29 Dec-2 Jan (Sat-Wed) New Year Break, Malham, Yorkshire Dales ...... Page 11
Special Interest Holidays
We have a selection of special interest holidays, usually combining walking with another activity. These are listed below and you can find more details on the pages given as well as in the Specialist section on our website at www.walkingwomen.com
Skiing and Winter Sports 27 Jan-3 Feb (Sat-Sat) French Alps Winter Multi-Activity ...... Page 19 24 Feb-3 Mar (Sat-Sat) Intermediate Dolomites Skiing, Italy ...... Page 21 17-24 Mar (Sat-Sat) Intermediate Andorra Skiing ...... Page 18 10-17 Mar (Sat-Sat) Norway Cross Country Skiing ...... Page 22
5 Natural History / Wildlife 13-27 Jan (Sat-Sat) Gentle Costa Rica Birdlife and Wildlife ...... Page 24 5-12 May (Sat-Sat) Gentle Croatia Natural History – NEW! ...... Page 19 21-25 May (Mon-Fri) Gentle Norfolk Coast Walking & Bird Watching 1...... Page 13 11-16 Jun (Mon-Sat) Gentle Pembroke Coast Birdlife & Nature ...... Page 16 16-29 Jun (Sat-Fri) Gentle Swaziland Wildlife and Safari...... Page 26 26 Jun-3 Jul (Tue-Tue) Low Intermediate Dolomites Natural History, Italy...... Page 22 6-10 Oct (Sat-Wed) Gentle Norfolk Coast Walking & Bird Watching 2...... Page 13 3-10 Nov (Sat-Sat) Gentle Algarve Wildlife and Bird Watching, Portugal...... Page 22 19-29 Nov (Mon-Thu) Culture and Wildlife of Rajasthan, India...... Page 25
City Breaks and Holidays with Sightseeing, Culture and/or Food 3-10 Jun (Sun-Sun) Low Intermediate Walk and Taste Tuscany – NEW! ...... Page 21 9-15 Jun (Sat-Fri) Low Intermediate Copenhagen and Beyond ...... Page 19 24-27 Aug (Fri- Mon) Gentle Salisbury City Break...... Page 12 23-30 Sep (Sun-Sun) Low Int. Peloponnese, Greece History & Culture ...... Page 20 13-20 Oct (Sat-Sat) Low Int. Walk and Taste, Catalonia – NEW! ...... Page 23 19-29 Nov (Mon-Thu) Gentle Culture and Wildlife of Rajasthan, India ...... Page 25 Photography – get tips from a professional on how to improve your photos 22-26 Oct (Mon-Fri) Gentle Borrowdale Photography, Lake District ...... Page 8
Yoga 15-18 Jun (Fri-Mon) Gentle Whitby Walking and Yoga ...... Page 10 24-27 Aug (Fri-Mon) Gentle Grasmere Walking and Yoga ...... Page 7 6-13 Oct (Sat-Sat) Gentle Crete Walking and Yoga – NEW!...... Page 20
Wild Swimming – combine lovely walks with outdoor swimming (optional!) 29 Jul-2 Aug (Sun-Thu) Int. Borrowdale Walking & Wild Swimming ...... Page 8 19-23 Aug (Sun-Thu) Low Int. Eskdale Walking & Wild Swimming – NEW! ...... Page 8
Dogs Welcome – bring your dog along to enjoy the countryside with you 3-7 Mar (Sat-Wed) Gentle Norfolk Coast, Dogs Welcome – NEW...... Page 13 7-11 Apr (Sat-Wed) Gentle Gower, Dogs Welcome ...... Page 16 2-5 Jul (Mon-Thu) Gentle North York Moors, Dogs Welcome ...... Page 10
Lesbian Holidays
Most of WalkingWomen’s extensive programme is for ALL women and the holidays are well attended by lesbian and heterosexual women alike. However, we do offer a small number of lesbian-only walking holidays each year, offering a chance to walk and spend time in an all lesbian group. Most women come on their own, and it’s always friendly. You can also come with your partner or with friends. 30 Mar-3 Apr (Fri-Tue) Yorkshire Dales Easter Lesbian Break ...... Page 11 21-28 Apr (Sat-Sat) Low Intermediate Lesbian Lesvos, Greece – NEW! ...... Page 21 7-14 Jul (Sat-Sat) Low Int. and High Int. Lesbian Andorra ...... Page 18 5-10 Aug (Sun-Fri) Summer Lakes Lesbian Break...... Page 8 20-24 Oct (Sat-Wed) Gentle & Low Int. Lesbian Llangollen – NEW! ...... Page 17
6 Lake District England has many wonderful places to walk and you’ll find lots of them in this brochure, including some new spots for 2018, however the Lake District remains unique for its dramatic beauty, and for the huge variety of walks accessible at every level. It contains England’s highest mountains and hills – or ‘fells’ – and her most beautiful gentle valleys and lakes. There are woodland walks and waterfalls, secluded tarns that invite a swim, and higher and wilder craggy fell tops to roam over or which shape magnificent views from below.
Grasmere – Lake District Grasmere is one of the most central of the Lake District valleys, with stunning scenery that has inspired poets and artists alike. There are beautiful and varied paths at every level – low intermediate walks may include Easedale and Alcock Tarns and high level such classics as Helm Crag, High Raise, Fairfield Horseshoe. There’s plenty to do after walking – from exploring Grasmere village with its teashops and outdoor shops, to visiting Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage or going rowing on the lake. Grasmere’s nearest train station is Windermere, and there is a regular bus service from the station.
Beatrix Potter’s Lakeland We are pleased to be offering a new holiday exploring the life of Beatrix Potter, author, farmer and conservationist. During our stay, we will walk the trails that inspired Beatrix in her writing and learn more about her, both as a writer and landowner. We will walk around Near Sawrey and other walks may include Hawkshead and Windermere. We will certainly visit her home at Hill Top Farm with its lovely garden and perhaps The World of Beatrix Potter at Bowness. If you would like to discover more about the woman who created Mrs Tiggy-Winkle and Jemima Puddle-Duck whilst enjoying some classic Lake District walking then do join us.
Grasmere Walking and Yoga This holiday enables us to walk through stunning scenery, so we can take a breather from this busy world. By taking regular exercise out in green spaces, it boosts endorphins, raises self-esteem and creates greater calm to both the mind and body. To further aid this natural calming, we will also draw on Yoga, meditation and mindfulness. We will start the morning with gentle movement followed by meditation. We will walk 5 miles during the day, stopping along the way to take in the views and to allow for reflection. Our afternoon yoga session will allow further opportunity to relax and stretch. We usually have lots of fun too – laughter is another great stress reliever after all!
“Very enjoyable. I tried a high level walk for the first time and both the guide and the group were very supportive. I feel a real sense of achievement, thank you. Glenthorne was a good base to stay with great views and good value for money. I always come back home wanting to book my next trip!”
7 Glenthorne Guest House, Grasmere In Grasmere, we stay at Glenthorne Guest House a very comfortable and friendly place, serving excellent food with a table license and including a delicious vegetarian option each day. There’s a tradition here of free tea and cakes after walking. It has a big garden with lovely views, a sizeable lounge with a conservatory, a separate table tennis room, and a large car park. All rooms have tea/coffee making facilities. Price includes: 3/4 nights full board. Single rooms available if you book early – from £7.50 per night. Beatrix Potter holiday also includes 2 entrance fees and transport to walks. Holidays based at Glenthorne: 10-14 Feb (Sat-Wed) Low Intermediate Grasmere £490 5-9 May (Sat-Wed) High Grasmere £490 21-25 Jun (Thu-Mon) Very Gentle Beatrix Potter’s Lake District NEW £580 24-27 Aug (Fri-Mon) Gentle Grasmere Walking and Yoga £395
Borrrowdale – Lake District Borrowdale is the name given to the valley beyond Derwent Water – often called the most beautiful valley in England. The road that takes you there from Keswick will captivate you as it winds through the woods beside the River Derwent then opens out to vistas of the surrounding fells. There are many wonderful walks at all levels including Allen Crags, Glarmara, High Stile, Haystacks and Scafell Pike for higher level walkers. For our wild swimming holiday, your guide will combine walking with swimming in some of the many appealing tarns in the area. For our photography holiday, your gentle walks will be combined with photography tuition and a review of the highlights at the end of the day.
Glaramara House, Seatoller, Borrowdale Glaramara House has a wonderful setting at the head of Borrowdale on the outskirts of Seatoller hamlet – a location that has ensured its popularity as a walking centre for many years. It has striking views up Borrowdale’s tributary valley of Seathwaite and across to Glaramara – hence the name. There is a large lounge and a separate bar – both with snug log fires, a dining room, a small games/TV room, and an efficient drying room. For our lesbian break in August, we will have sole use of the centre and 3 levels of walk each day including a gentle and a higher level choice. Price includes: 4/5 nights full board. Single ensuite rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. 19-23 Feb (Mon-Fri) Gentle Borrowdale NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT £495 29 Jul-2 Aug (Sun-Thu) Int. Borrowdale Walking & Wild Swimming £500 5-10 Aug (Sun-Fri) Summer Lakes Lesbian Break £545 22-26 Oct (Mon-Fri) Gentle Borrowdale Photography, Lake District £520
Eskdale – Lake District Eskdale, a dramatic valley in the western reaches of the Lake District, is both picturesque and awe-inspiring in its grandeur. The River Esk has carved out a truly remarkable landscape of towering peaks, rolling hills and stunning water features. We will take full advantage of the latter as we dip into remote tarns and beautiful river pools. On one day, we may head to Blea Tarn, nestled high up in a craggy hollow and then descend through the old mining landscape to Boot where there are pools and falls in the Beck. Perhaps we will also explore Lingcove Bridge, towards Upper Eskdale with its pristine (and chilly!) river pools filed with impressive sapphire water. And on another day, we may take the former coffin route with its far-reaching views over Wasdale, to Burnmoor Tarn. En route, we will pass another pretty shallow tarn where we can see shoals of fish darting in and out of plant fronds on the tarn bed. We will be based at the very comfortable Stanley House Hotel which can be accessed by the Ravensglass and Eskdale steam railway – an adventure in itself. Evening meals will be taken at a local pub (not included). Price includes: 4 nights half board in twin ensuite rooms; all transport to walks. Single ensuites available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. 19-23 Aug (Sun-Thur) Low Int Eskdale Walking and Wild Swimming £470
8 North of England High Force and Durham Dales This holiday is based in the beautiful historic village of Middleton in Teesdale at the comfortable Teesdale Hotel a family-run, 18C coaching inn. Both the Pennine Way and the Teesdale Way pass through the village of Middleton and there is a huge range of walks nearby including a walk to the magnificent High Force waterfall. Price includes: 4 nights full board in twin ensuite rooms & any transport to walks. Single rooms available if you book early – from £10 per night. 18-22 Aug (Sat-Wed) Low Int. High Force and Durham Dales £495
Northumberland Coast The long Northumberland Coast offers mile upon mile of almost deserted sands, traditional seaside towns, historic castles, and rolling surf. One of our walks will take us down the beautiful beach to Seahouses, with its colourful harbour and the option in July, weather permitting, of a boat trip around the Farne Islands to see grey seals and a variety of seabirds. We will travel south to Howick to walk the scenic coastal path to Craster, famous for its kippers, passing the stunning ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. We will cross the causeway to walk on Holy Island (Lindisfarne), which is steeped in history, with its prominent castle, priory, churches and beautiful gardens. On our last day we may walk to Budle Point with its stunning views. This year we have two very gentle holidays, offering shorter walks of around 3 miles. We will spend a day on Lindisfarne, visiting the priory and Gertrude Jekyll’s garden. Another day we will go to Embleton and walk along the beach then on to Dunstanburgh Castle – now a dramatic ruin. After visiting there we’ll head into the beautiful little fishing village of Craster. In Alnwick, we can visit Alnwick Castle (Hogwarts to Harry Potter fans) and / or Alnwick gardens. On our last day, we’ll visit the Grace Darling Museum and the magnificent Bamburgh Castle and maybe have lunch on the beach before we all head home. We’ll be based at the Sunningdale Hotel in Bamburgh – a friendly, family-owned hotel with a good number of ensuite single rooms available. Price includes: 4 or 5 nights full board in twin ensuite rooms; transport to walks. Single ensuite rooms available if you book early – from £12.50 per night supplement. For the Very Gentle holidays: as above plus entry to Lindisfarne priory, Dunstanburgh and Bamburgh castles. Not included: entry to Alnwick castle and gardens. 9-13 Apr (Mon-Fri) Very Gentle Northumbrian Coast 1 £500 21-26 Jul (Sat-Thu) Gentle Northumbrian Coast – 5 nights £580 29 Sep-3 Oct (Sat-Wed) Very Gentle Northumbrian Coast 2 £500
St Oswald’s Way, Coastal Section – NEW! St Oswald’s Way is a fine long-distance walking route taking in some of the most stunning and historically interesting places in Northumberland. This part of the route explores the coastal section of the trail from its northerly start point on Lindisfarne (Holy Island) to Warkworth where the inland section begins. Linking places associated with 7th century King Oswald, this holiday offers the opportunity to enjoy world class coastal scenery, plentiful wildlife, pretty fishing villages and evocative castle ruins. We walk 46.5 miles over 5 days – the longest day is 11.5 miles and the shortest 6 miles with little ascent throughout. We will be based in Bamburgh with its imposing castle. Price includes: 6 nights full board in twin ensuite rooms; all transport to walks. Single rooms available from £12.50 per night supplement. 1-7 Sept (Sat-Fri) Long Distance St Oswald’s Way, Coastal £750
“Terrific holiday, the entire week was memorable”
9 Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland Built in AD 122 during the time of Emperor Hadrian to “separate the Romans from the Barbarians”, Hadrian’s Wall is Europe’s largest surviving Roman monument and a UNESCO world heritage site. We will explore some of the most evocative sections of the wall as well as the beautiful Northumbrian countryside beyond. There will be milecastles, turrets, Robin Hood’s tree, fascinating Roman forts, and dramatic stretches of the wall. We are based at the wonderfully friendly and very comfortable Centre of Britain Hotel in Haltwhistle, where the food is delicious and plentiful! Price includes: 4 nights full board in ensuite twin rooms; transport to walks. Single rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. For the Gentle holiday price also includes entry to 3 Roman forts. 21-25 Apr (Sat-Wed) Gentle Hadrian’s Wall 1 £505 11-15 Aug (Sat-Wed) Gentle Hadrian’s Wall 2 £505 22-26 Oct (Mon-Fri) Low Intermediate Hadrian’s Wall £480
Hadrian’s Wall Trek Walk the full Hadrian’s Wall National Trail – 84 miles from coast to coast – tracing 2,000 years of history across wild and beautiful countryside. We will walk west to east and will stay in 3 centres – Carlisle, Haltwhistle and Newcastle upon Tyne. Walking days will vary from 6 to 15 miles over the 8 walking days. Enjoy the challenge of a demanding, multi-day trek steeped in history. Luggage is transported so you only carry a day pack. Price includes: 9 nights twin ensuite accommodation (5 full board/ 2 part board / 2 bed and breakfast); all transport and luggage transfers. Single rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. 22 Jun-1 Jul (Fri-Sun) Long Distance Hadrian’s Wall Trek £1,200 Yorkshire Whitby Sneaton Castle is situated in extensive grounds above the picturesque seaside resort and ancient harbour of Whitby, allowing access to the beautiful Yorkshire Coast and Moors. This holiday enables us to walk through stunning scenery, so we can take a breather from this busy world. By taking regular exercise out in green spaces, it boosts endorphins, raises self-esteem and creates greater calm to both the mind and body. To further aid this natural calming, we will also draw on Yoga, meditation and mindfulness. We will start the morning with gentle movement followed by meditation. We will walk 5 miles during the day, stopping along the way to take in the views and to allow for reflection. Our afternoon yoga session will allow further opportunity to relax and stretch. We usually have lots of fun too – laughter is another great stress reliever after all! Price includes: 3 nights full board in ensuite twin rooms; all transport to walks (excluding steam train if used). Single rooms are available if you book early: NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT. 15-18 Jun (Fri-Mon) Gentle Whitby Walking and Yoga £395
North Yorkshire Moors and Howardian Hills Walk with your dog in the picturesque village of Kilburn, in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park and just 20 miles north of York. We will stay at the Forresters Arms, a charming country inn with real ales and excellent food. Local attractions include the White Horse, a chalk figure carved into the hillside at Kilburn and Byland Abbey. You can also visit the Mouseman Centre in Kilburn, home to the famous furniture, each piece bearing the signature carved mouse. Price includes: 3 nights full board accommodation. NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT. 2-5 Jul (Mon-Thu) Gentle North York Moors – Dogs Welcome £410
“The holiday surpassed my expectations”
10 Malham, Yorkshire Dales Away from the crowds, we are based near tranquil Malham Tarn in the Yorkshire Dales in a beautifully converted farm on the edge of the moors above Malham Cove and Gordale Scar. The Pennine Way passes close by on its way from Malham Cove over Fountains Fell towards Pen-y-Ghent, and across the moors are interesting paths to the pretty village of Arncliffe and the lively town of Settle with its tearooms and independent shops. High Trenhouse offers delicious food, and there’s even a sauna – so bring your swimsuit! On the Easter and New Year breaks there will be a choice of Gentle and Intermediate walks each day. Price includes: 4 nights full board in ensuite twins & transport to walks. Single rooms are available if you book early – from £10 per night supplement. 30 Mar-3 Apr (Fri-Tue) Yorkshire Dales Easter Lesbian Break £545 4-8 Aug (Sat-Wed) Intermediate Malham, Yorkshire Dales £550 29 Dec-2 Jan (Sat-Wed) New Year Break, Malham, Yorkshire Dales £580
Yorkshire Three Peaks Join us to conquer Yorkshire’s famous 3 peaks and enjoy the stunning scenery in this most dramatic part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The enticing hills of Whernside (736 m/2,415 ft), Ingleborough (723 m/2,372 ft) and Pen-y-Ghent (694 m/2,277 ft) are visible from a great distance and beckon the keen walker from afar. The famous Three Peaks challenge involves covering all three in 12 hours, however we enjoy a much gentler pace, taking in one peak each day. The last day is reserved for a local walk near the accommodation. We’ll stay at the Craven Arms near Giggleswick – a family friendly free-house with real ales and great food. Price includes: 4 nights full board in ensuite twins, transport to walks. Single ensuite rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. 5-9 May (Sat-Wed) High Int Yorkshire Three Peaks – NEW VENUE £500
Skipton, North Yorkshire Skipton, known as the Gateway to the Dales, is a traditional Yorkshire market town steeped in history. For walkers, Skipton is perfectly located for access to the surrounding moors and dales- Flasby Fell, Embsay Moor, Skipton Moor and perhaps one day we’ll head to the impressive remains of Bolton Abbey using the steam railway. We stay at the Rendezvous Hotel where we will receive a warm Yorkshire welcome. Price includes: 4 nights full board in twin ensuite rooms; transport to walks. Single ensuite rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. 16-20 Jul (Mon-Fri) Low Intermediate Skipton, North Yorkshire £490 The English Midlands The Peak District – Derbyshire Castleton We are delighted to be returning to Castleton, a superb location for exploring both the Dark and White Peak areas. There are so many wonderful walks to choose from and each one will give you a taste of the beautiful and varied landscape of this area. We will certainly take in the Great Ridge from Lose Hill to Mam Tor with far reaching views. In complete contrast, on one day we will head over to the dark, brooding mass of Kinder Scout, the highest “peak” in the National Park. We stay at the Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, in the heart of Castleton where there is a good choice of places to eat. Evening meals (not included) will be organised by your guide. Price includes: 4 nights part board accommodation in twin ensuite rooms. Single ensuite rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. 12-16 Feb (Mon-Fri) Intermediate Castleton, Peak District – NEW! £450 11 Dovedale These weekend breaks are based in the ancient village of Hartington and will allow us to explore walks in the beautiful Upper Dove Valley. Our paths beside the river will take us into spectacular limestone scenery, perhaps climbing to the unspoilt village of Alstonfield on one day, or heading north to the quiet upper reaches of the Manifold River on the other. There will be an extra Friday walk from 1.30pm for those who can arrive early. Our accommodation will be in single and twin rooms at the comfortable Hartington Hall youth hostel. Hartington Hall is a magnificent 17th century manor house with log fires, oak panelling, excellent food (+ table license). Price includes: 2 nights full board in twin rooms. Single rooms may be available if you book early from £10 per night. 27-29 Jul (Fri-Sun) Low Int. Hartington Weekend 1, Peak District £205 14-16 Sep (Fri-Sun) Low Int. Hartington Weekend 2, Peak District £205 Southern and Eastern England North Cotswolds, Beckford, near Tewkesbury Within easy reach of the South, the Cotswolds is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with sleepy villages built of mellow Cotswold stone, and rolling hills full of delightful low-level walks. This weekend is based at the Beckford Inn, giving us access to lovely walks with views over Evesham Vale and from Cleeve Hill. From the hotel we can walk up Bredon Hill, which gives wonderful views across the valley to the Malverns. On another day, we can walk from Winchcombe, stopping at the entrance to Hailes Abbey ruins and through the grounds of Sudeley Castle. Both walks will give you a great picture of the North Cotswolds with their gentle, rolling hills, verdant valleys and beautiful villages. Several shorter possibilities will remain for an extra walk on Friday afternoon if you are able to arrive by 2pm.The Beckford is a stunning 18th-century coaching inn, set in open countryside. This great pub offers quality throughout from their fantastic menu to the beautifully refurbished en-suite bedrooms. Price includes: 2 nights full board in ensuite twin rooms. Single ensuite rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. 5-7 Oct (Fri-Sun) Low Int North Cotswolds Weekend £295
Clarendon Way, Wiltshire and Hampshire The Clarendon Way is a 24 mile long distance path running from Salisbury Cathedral to Winchester Cathedral. We travel from Wiltshire into Hampshire on the Clarendon Way using a mixture of woodland, open country and riverside paths. On the last day, we will take time to explore Winchester before returning to Salisbury. Although the walks are longer than our usual low intermediate walks (9 to 11 miles), there is not a great deal of ascent. Sarum College offers the only guest accommodation within Salisbury’s historic Cathedral Close, at the centre of this beautiful medieval city. We will eat out together in the evenings (not included). Price includes: 3 nights part board accommodation in single ensuite rooms; transport – NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT! 12-15 Apr (Thu-Sun) Low Intermediate Clarendon Way £395
Salisbury Join us in Salisbury, a quintessentially English city full of charm and history. Salisbury’s cathedral dominates the skyline, having the tallest spire in Britain. It is one of the finest medieval cathedrals in the country full of grandeur at every turn. It houses the best preserved of the 4 original Magna Carta dating from 1215. The Cathedral Close is lined with fine buildings and we will be housed here at Sarum College – serenity in the heart of the city. On one day, we will join a tour of the city led by a Blue Badge guide. During our visit, we will walk out through the Avon Valley Nature Reserve to the English Heritage site of Old Sarum with its fascinating history spanning from the Iron Age onwards. Price includes: 3 nights bed and breakfast; city tour; entrance to Old Sarum. Single ensuite rooms available – NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT. 24-27 Aug (Fri-Mon) Gentle Salisbury City Break £390
“Excellent guides – safety, friendliness, care & support, boundaries, challenge”. “Our guide was both encouraging and challenging of our expectations of ourselves – a great mix and some wonderful walks”. “A great sense of achievement – I felt on top of the world. It’s definitely some of the best walking I’ve ever done”. 12 Rye, East Sussex Staying in Rye we will have the chance to discover the fascinating history of the town with a walk through the cobbled streets and along the ramparts of this ancient member of the Cinque Ports. Our walks will take us across the marshes to the sea, through the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve with a chance to visit the bird hides and Camber Castle on one day. The next day we will take the path to Winchelsea a beautiful village where we can visit the church (resting place of Spike Milligan). There will be an extra walk exploring Rye on Friday afternoon if you can arrive by 1. 30pm.We will stay at the River Haven Hotel in Rye, a comfortable hotel 5 minutes’ walk from the station and the centre of the town. We will eat out together in the evenings (not included). Price includes: 2 nights part board accommodation; entrance to Camber Castle. Single rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. 8-10 Jun (Fri-Sun) Gentle Rye Weekend 1 £265 12-14 Oct (Fri-Sun) Gentle Rye Weekend 2 £265 The Chilterns The Chilterns, a short hop from London, are renowned as wonderful walking country - deep, secret valleys, lovely villages with pretty brick and flint cottages and views from the hilltops which will surely surprise and delight you. We are based at Cadmore End, a hamlet between Marlow and Stokenchurch. The Tree is an old inn with a modern annexe. Our two main walks will take us to some of the Chilterns’ prettiest villages including Fingest and Turville where the Vicar of Dibley was filmed. And if you are able to arrive by 1.30 p.m. on Friday, then your guide will take you on an extra afternoon walk. Price includes: 2 nights full board. Single rooms available if you book early – £20 per night supplement. 9-11 Mar (Fri-Sun) Gentle Chilterns Weekend 1 £275 29 Jun-1 Jul (Fri-Sun) Low Intermediate Chilterns Weekend £275 21-23 Sep (Fri-Sun) Gentle Chilterns Weekend 2 £275 Norfolk Bird Watching The Norfolk Coast Path wends its way under huge skies along the Norfolk Coast – a bird watcher’s paradise. We will cover parts of the coastal path from Cley-next-the-Sea to Titchwell Nature Reserve giving us an unrivalled opportunity to see many species of resident ducks, waders, seabirds and geese as well as some of the thousands of migrating birds. We may see terns, oyster catchers, avocets, marsh harriers, godwits, redshanks and even the rare bittern on the tidal flats or from hides overlooking saltmarshes, lagoons, and whispering reedbeds. On one day, we might take a trip by boat to see the Blakeney Point seal colony (not included). The holiday is based at the Red Lion in Stiffkey a modern, comfortable, eco-friendly hotel. In May, we can also enjoy the spectacle of diving, screeching terns over the sea and breeding waders in the purple mass of sea-lavender on the pristine salt marshes. Also, on at least one evening we can listen out for the hauntingly beautiful calls of unusual and rare late spring / early summer visitors like nightingales and nightjars. Price includes: 4 nights full board, all transport to walks. Single rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. Not included: boat trip to Blakeney Point approx. £12. 21-25 May (Mon-Fri) Gentle Norfolk Coast Walking & Bird Watching 1 £595 6-10 Oct (Sat-Wed) Gentle Norfolk Coast Walking & Bird Watching 2 £595 Norfolk – Dogs Welcome Come along and enjoy the gorgeous Norfolk Coast, set beneath huge skies with extensive views – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a great place to unwind. This gentle holiday, where dogs are welcome, will explore this wonderful area taking in the coastal fens, saltmarshes and some of the pretty villages that dot the coastline. Price includes: 4 nights full board in ensuite rooms. Single rooms available – £15 per night supplement. 3-7 Mar (Sat-Wed) Gentle Norfolk, Dogs Welcome – NEW! £570 13 South West England and The Channel Islands Dorset Our holiday offers you the chance to discover the lovely, quiet paths and countryside of Thomas Hardy’s Dorset. Our walks will include a visit to the cottage in which he was born, and the villages in which he lived, went to school and wrote his novels and poetry. Walking into hidden valleys, through quiet woodland and across the fields in the area north of Dorchester we will pass through beautiful villages in this lovely part of Dorset. On some days, our path will track parts of the Wessex Ridgeway with far reaching views both east and west. We will be based at the comfortable Poachers Inn (with its own swimming pool) in the village of Piddletrenthide. Price includes: 4 nights full board in ensuite rooms; entrance to Hardy’s cottage; transport to walks. Single rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supp. 14-18 Jul (Sat-Wed) Low Int. Hardy Country, Dorset – NEW! £499 Somerset Quantock Hills, Somerset The peaceful Quantock Hills in Somerset above the Vale of Taunton, afford far-reaching views across nine counties and to the Welsh hills. Our walks will explore lesser known routes over moorland hilltops and through quiet wooded combes where we might see ponies, buzzards, and red deer. We will be based at Huntstile Organic Farm, a 14th century farmhouse that has its own stone circle, a spring-fed lake and woods to explore. We’ll stay in delightfully converted outbuildings and the food is delicious! Here is what customers said about this holiday: “One of the best WalkingWomen holidays I’ve been on (10+ years)”. “Excellent food, accommodation, great hosts”. “Exceptional in every way”. “Can’t wait to recommend it to others and return myself”. Price includes: 4 nights full board in ensuite twin rooms. Single rooms available if you book early – from £10 per night supplement. 19-23 Mar (Mon-Fri) Low Intermediate Quantock Hills 1 £560 17-21 Sep (Mon-Fri) Low Intermediate Quantock Hills 2 £560
Devon Exmoor This holiday is based in the picturesque medieval wool trade village of Dunster within Exmoor National Park and only a short distance from the coast near Minehead. Our walks will take us into some of the most beautiful areas of Exmoor National Park where pretty Exmoor ponies and red deer can be spotted. We’ll also be walking along the stunning coast. This delightful area is rich in ancient woodlands, tumbling streams and wildlife. The family run Yarn Market Hotel is recommended for its comfort and welcoming staff. Price includes: 4 nights full board accommodation; transport to walks. Single ensuites available if you book early – NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT. 9-13 Jun (Sat-Wed) Intermediate Exmoor 1 £495 1-5 Oct (Mon-Fri) Intermediate Exmoor 2 £495
Devon Dartmoor On Dartmoor, our walks will explore the varied landscape around Dartmeet, including deep wooded valleys with tumbling rivers and ancient stepping stones, and the impressive granite tors that give Dartmoor its distinctive character. We’ll be based at Brimpts Farm in the heart of the National Park, a Duchy of Cornwall tenant farm since 1307. Brimpts is a wonderful place to visit in a stunning setting and has earned itself a well-deserved reputation for good, old-fashioned hospitality. There’s a hot tub so don’t forget to pack your swimsuit! Price includes: 4 nights full board accommodation. Single rooms available if you book early – £12.50 per night supplement. 7-11 Jul (Sat-Wed) Intermediate Dartmoor £425
14 North Devon This holiday is based on the northern tip of Devon in the tiny village of Mortehoe, perched above the Atlantic. This area is a hidden gem, away from the hustle and bustle of Barnstable and offering a great variety of walks. The walks will take us mostly along the coast from Ilfracombe around to Woolacombe and Croyde, where the landscape offers us dramatic cliff tops, wooded valleys and long sandy beaches. You can arrive the scenic way by train, using the single-track line from Exeter to Barnstable. A step into the past, it winds its way up to North Devon through tiny hamlets. From there a short taxi ride takes you to Mortehoe. We will be staying at the recently renovated Smugglers Rest, a delightful and extremely comfortable B&B with an outstanding reputation. We may choose to eat here or nearby in the evenings (not included). Price includes: 4 nights half board in twin ensuite rooms; transport to walks. Single rooms available if you book early – £20 per night supplement. 7-11 May (Mon-Fri) Intermediate North Devon Coast £580
Cornwall South West Coast Path Part 4 Dramatic cliffs, crashing seas, idyllic coves, smugglers’ hideaways, pretty fishing villages, tranquil woods creeks and inlets… The SW coastal path stretches 630 miles from Minehead to Poole Harbour in Dorset and is one of the world’s great walks. Our SWCP Part 4 trip covers some of the more challenging sections in terms of terrain although we gain rich rewards for our efforts in terms of scenery. We will walk between Boscastle and Rock on the North Cornwall coast, taking in the quaint coastal villages of Polzeath and Tintagel along the way. The holiday combines walking with opportunities for swimming in secluded sandy coves along with a taste of Cornish heritage. There is plenty of interest for wildlife enthusiasts with the potential for seeing seals, basking sharks, gannets and wild ponies, as well as other Cornish delights such as ice cream, cream teas or even pasties! We cover 26.5 miles over 3.5 days through an ever changing landscape. You will only need to carry a day pack. For the holiday, we will have sole use of the gorgeous Bluff Centre with its amazing views and sense of wild seclusion. Breakfast and lunch are provided on a help yourself basis and we will eat out in the evenings at local pubs (not included). Price includes: 4 nights half board in twin ensuite rooms; transport to walks. Single supplement available from £10 per night. 28 May – 1 Jun (Mon – Fri) Long Distance South West Coast Path 4 £445
Guernsey, Channel Islands The perfect opportunity to enjoy the stunning views of Guernsey’s coastal paths and venture out to explore the nearby islands of Sark and Herm. From our hotel we will have immediate access to Guernsey’s spectacular coastal path. Our walks will take in stunning sea views, cliffs & coves and more ups and downs than some Low Intermediate walks. We’ll take day trips by ferry to the fascinating smaller islands of Sark and Herm (weather permitting). Guernsey can be reached by air or ferry. The Saints Bay Hotel is a short taxi ride from both the airport and the port. Price includes: 6 nights full board in ensuite twin rooms. Single ensuite rooms available if you book early – £20 per night. Sark & Herm ferries; transport to walks. 21-27 Apr (Sat- Fri) Low Intermediate Guernsey, Channel Islands £790
“Our guide was excellent (knowledgeable, patient, kind and calm) she could not have been more helpful”
15 Wales Gentle Pembroke Coast Birdlife and Nature This is a gem of a walking holiday along unspoilt miles of beautiful coastline footpaths. In spring and early summer, its clifftops are ablaze with wildflowers and we pause frequently to discover more about these unusual coastal plants. During our daily walks, we’ll see colonies of seabirds nest along its cliffs and seals, porpoises and dolphins can sometimes be spotted. Highlights include a short boat trip to the magical RSPB Ramsey Island to see little owls, hunting peregrines, rare choughs and red deer. On a fine evening, we’ll use bat detectors to locate and hear bats flitting around the cathedral and the ruins of the Bishop’s Palace. St David’s has a great choice of excellent eateries for our evening meals (not included, from £15). The City Inn, St David’s can be reached by car, or by regular bus from Haverfordwest station. Price includes: 5 nights part board accommodation; transport to walks. Single rooms are available if you book early – supplement £15 per night. 11-16 Jun (Mon-Sat) Gentle Pembroke Coast Birdlife and Nature £530
Gower The Gower Peninsula was the first Welsh area to be awarded Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty status, with The Gower Way providing a superb way to experience the varied landscape this area has to offer. Staying just 10 metres from the beach, our walks will mainly be from the hotel, through such mixed delights as nature reserve, woodland, cliff tops, open fields, dunes and sweeping sandy beach. On one day, we’ll take a trip to the breathtakingly panoramic Worm’s Head area at Rhossili. We are based at the comfortable Oxwich Bay Hotel either in the hotel or their static homes. The nearest train station is Swansea, about 15 miles away with good bus connections, so you can easily reach this somewhat remote but beautiful destination. Price includes: 4 nights full board in ensuite twin rooms; & transport to walks for Worm’s Head walk. Single rooms available if you book early – from £15 per night supplement. For the ‘Dogs Welcome’ holiday: no single supplement; transport to Rhossili not included. This is an ideal base for a holiday with dogs as the wide, long, sandy beach is dog friendly all year round. 7-11 Apr (Sat-Wed) Gentle Gower, Dogs Welcome £570 26-30 May (Sat-Wed) Low Intermediate Gower £470 5-9 Nov (Mon-Fri) Gentle Gower £495
Wye Valley Our Wye Valley holidays are based at the very comfortable Royal George Hotel near Tintern Abbey. This lovely area is steeped in history and is rich in wildlife, archaeology, and industrial remains. The River Wye forms the boundary between England and Wales, and King Offa built his famous dyke near the English bank. In places ancient woodland clings to the steep sides of a dramatic limestone gorge, while elsewhere the river is bordered by tranquil meadows. After walking we can explore Tintern village with its old pubs, tourist shops and craft galleries. Price includes: 3 nights full board in ensuite twins at the Royal George Hotel, & any transport to walks. Singles available if you book early – £20 per night supplement. 24-27 Mar (Sat-Tues) Gentle Wye Valley £430 10-13 Aug (Fri-Mon) Low Intermediate Wye Valley – NEW £430
“I didn’t realise the muscles I’d pull would be my ‘laughing ones’”. I’m still chuckling and can’t wait for my next WW holiday” 16 Llangollen Llangollen, set on the River Dee and surrounded by enticing hills has been associated with Arthurian legend, transformed by the Industrial Revolution and renowned both as the home of the ”Ladies of Llangollen” and the venue for the annual International Musical Eisteddfod. And then, of course, there is the walking – Llangollen is a stunning and often overlooked area of North East Wales where we find beautiful hillsides dotted with spectacular outcrops of Carboniferous limestone. From the tops, there are far reaching views to the Shropshire and Cheshire plains beyond. We will be based at the Hand Hotel, with its riverside garden. It has been a hotel for 400 years and exudes old world charm with modern touches! Price includes: 4 nights full board accommodation; transport to walks. Single rooms are available if you book early – £10 per night supplement. 22-26 Jul (Sun-Thu) Low Intermediate Llangollen, Wales £450 For our lesbian holiday in October, there will be two grades of walk on offer each day – gentle and low intermediate. 20 – 24 Oct (Sat – Wed) Gentle and Low Int Lesbian Llangollen £450 Scotland Isle of Mull, Scotland Mull is one of the largest of the Hebridean islands off the west coast of Scotland. It has a long and strikingly beautiful coastline of high cliffs and bays, with caves and rock arches, and views out to the many smaller islands that surround it. Most notable of these is the ‘Holy Isle’ of Iona where we will walk on one day and where there will be an opportunity to visit Iona Abbey. Another rewarding visit might be a boat trip to cathedral-like Fingal’s Cave on Staffa whose geometrical basalt columns form the Scottish end of the ‘Giant’s Causeway’ and which inspired a Mendelssohn overture! (Staffa Island boat trip approx. £30 not included as it depends on the weather). On another day, we will cross the sands to the tidal island of Erraid – the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel ‘Kidnapped.’ There are many beautiful walks along the Ross of Mull’s coastline, stopping at sandy bays, looking out for golden and sea eagles as we go, or exploring the ruins of villages abandoned in the ‘clearances.’ We will be staying at Ardachy House Hotel on the south coast, overlooking the deserted white sands of Ardalanish Bay. Price includes: 7 nights full board in ensuite twins; all walks transport & Iona ferry. Single rooms available if you book early – from £5 per night supplement. 12-19 May (Sat-Sat) Low Int. Mull and Hebridean Islands £835 22-29 Sep (Sat-Sat) Gentle Mull and Hebridean Islands £835 Isle of Arran, Scotland The beautiful Isle of Arran is often described as Scotland in miniature – spectacular seascapes, ruined castles, gentle farmland, forests, waterfalls, all to a backdrop of rugged mountain peaks. In May there are lots of spring flowers and September brings wonderful autumn colours. Seals, otters, red squirrels, red deer can all be seen and the island also has nesting golden eagles. We will be staying at comfortable Dunvegan House in Brodick, a few minutes’ walk from the ferry. We will eat at the hotel on four evenings and eat out together in Brodick on the other two (not included). Price includes: 6 nights full board accommodation excluding 2 evening meals; transport to walks. Single rooms available if you book early – £15 per night. 5-11 May (Sat-Fri) Gentle Isle of Arran, Scotland £685 8-14 Sep (Sat-Fri) Low Intermediate Isle of Arran, Scotland £685
“The groups of like-minded women are wonderful. Lots of laughter and great conversations”
17 Glencoe, Scottish Highlands Join us as we return to the magnificent scenery of this famous glen with its 3 huge buttresses looking stunning or moody depending on the weather. Our choice of walks will depend on weather and local conditions and could include: the Ballachulish Horseshoe Beinn a Bheithir – a lovely ridge walk with coastal views; up to Sron Gharbh and back along the West Highland Way for views across to the Mamores. On one day, we hope to climb Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK. We stay in chalets at the Inchree Centre overlooking Loch Linnhe. Evening meals are not included – from £12. We will most likely take our meals in the Centre’s dining room. We will arrange a 4pm shared taxi from Fort William station to Inchree (not included). Price includes: 6 nights part board in standard single rooms; all transport to walks. NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT 21-27 May (Mon - Sun) High Level Glencoe £630 Ireland County Clare A taste of Ireland brought to you by sisters Mary and Breada whose warm hospitality and breadth of knowledge make this a truly unique insight into the area. A wonderful opportunity to explore the fauna, geology and history of County Clare along with a taste of Irish culture. The karst scenery of the Burren is known for the grikes, (cracks) in the limestone pavements which support Arctic, Mediterranean and Alpine species. On one day, we will walk along the Cliffs of Moher, a spectacular stretch along the Atlantic coast with views across Galway Bay. On another day, we may take the ferry out to the Aran Islands – the trip is weather dependent so not included in the cost (approx 30e). We’ll be based in the lovely village of Ballyvaughan at the Meadowfield Guest House where hostess, Breada, will make you very welcome. In the evening, Mary will take us to dinner to enjoy the atmosphere of village life. We’ll also get to experience local music first hand. Price includes: 5 nights full board in ensuite twin rooms; all transport to walks. Single rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. 7-12 May (Mon-Sat) Low Intermediate County Clare, Ireland £560 Europe Andorra Andorra, situated in the eastern Pyrenees between France and Spain, is renowned for its dramatic mountain scenery. On our walks, we can expect to see stunning glacial lakes, ridges, cols, abundant flora and fauna, old shepherd huts, historic iron mines and the influence of both the Atlantic and Mediterranean in the landscape. We will walk within sight of both the Spanish and French borders. Long distance views and wonderful walking combine to make this a real gem for walkers. Especially attractive at this time of year is the wonderful display of wild flowers- people travel here from far and wide to enjoy them. Hotel Coma is a friendly, family run hotel located in the peaceful mountain village of Ordino. Set in extensive gardens with its own pool, it’s the perfect place to relax after a day’s walking. Price includes: 7 nights full board accommodation; all transport to walks; airport transfers at set times. Single rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. Not included: flight to Barcelona. 7-14 Jul (Sat-Sat) Low Int. and High Int. Lesbian Andorra £795 Andorra Skiing Grandvalira, in Andorra, at the heart of the rugged Pyrennes, is a world class gem of a ski resort that easily equals the best resorts found across the Alps. A plethora of ski runs, totalling 210kms, connect five stunning mountain ranges. These consist of 34 blue, 33 red and 19 black runs. If that’s not enough then there are also plenty of opportunities to take little tracks between the trees lower down the valleys or test yourself on the steeper sections, deeper snow and playparks higher up the slopes. In short, Grandvalira is a fantastic, purpose-built, resort for intermediate and more advanced skiers and your time here will be facilitated by a WalkingWomen guide. Price includes: Dinner, bed and breakfast, ski locker, morning transfer to gondola, airport transfer at certain times. Single rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. Not included: flight, ski hire, ski pass, lunch. 17-24 Mar (Sat-Sat) Intermediate Andorra Skiing £795 18 Croatia The Dalmatian island of Brac lies off the coast from Split, threaded by lovely old mule tracks through olive groves and pinewoods. Ancient chapels and monasteries dot the island while along the rocky coast there are pebbly coves that invite a swim and small picturesque fishing resorts. Our Natural History holiday in mid-May is the perfect time for us to enjoy the host of wildflowers, butterflies and birds and we pause frequently to discover more about the natural wealth of the island. For our September break, we will enjoy a varied selection of beautiful low intermediate walks around the island.For both holidays, we stay in apartments in Sutivan, a small, typically picturesque town on the north coast of Brac. There will be 5 days of walking and on our day off we will be able to enjoy the sea, kayak, cycle, visit Diocletian’s Palace in Split or simply relax! Price includes: 7 nights in ensuite twins (full board except for 3 evening meals); airport transfer & all walks transport. Single rooms £15 per night – book early! Not included: Flight to Split, 3 evening meals. 5-12 May (Sat-Sat) Gentle Croatia Natural History – NEW £790 8-15 Sept (Sat-Sat) Low Intermediate Croatia £770 Denmark – Copenhagen This holiday offers a tremendous variety of walks all within easy reach of the extraordinary city of Copenhagen. The walks take us through woods, along sandy beaches and along spectacular chalk cliffs with views towards Sweden and the island of Hven, which we visit by ferry. On our walks, north and south of the capital – and in the capital itself, – we will enjoy the peace of rural Denmark, visiting old fishing villages, the former hunting grounds of kings and the spectacular white cliffs of Stevns. A small ferry will take us to the Swedish island of Hven where our walk will offer beautiful views. Our base will be the Danhostel Copenhagen next to the river. In the evenings, we will explore the lively streets and cosy eateries of the city and sample some of the local dishes. Price includes: 6 nights bed and breakfast in quality hostel accommodation; 4 lunches; all travel to walks. Single rooms available if you book early – £20 per night supplement. Not included: flight to Copenhagen; 2 lunches; dinner. 9-15 Jun (Sat-Fri) Low Intermediate Copenhagen and Beyond £850 France – Alps Winter Multi Activity This holiday offers a week of winter adventure in a fabulous gite right in the heart of the French Haute-Alpes. It provides an amazing opportunity to try various winter activities in a stunning location. The week comprises: half a day introduction to Nordic ski touring plus a full day taking us off piste into the glorious mountains; a day of cross-country skiing on well-groomed tracks and a splendid 2-day snowshoeing trek staying overnight in an isolated mountain gite high in the heart of the Ecrins National Park. There will also be a free day plus a free half day when you can relax or perhaps try your hand at an alternative winter activity (not included). We stay at the wonderful Les 5 Saisons perched high in the Freissinieres Valley, known for its hospitality and delicious home cooking. Our stay includes all meals with tea and cakes after our day out and wine with the evening meal. The rustic feel is enhanced by the open fire in the dining room. A sauna is available to help relax those tired muscles after a day in the mountains. Price includes: 7 nights full board accommodation (6 nights hotel / 1 night mountain refuge, airport transfer at certain times, all equipment hire, specialist guide /training. Single rooms available on 6 nights at a total supplement of £105. Not included: flight to Turin. 27 Jan-3 Feb (Sat-Sat) Intermediate French Alps Winter Multi Activity £1,000 France – Alps Summer Walking A week of fabulous Alpine walking based in Les Freissinieres valley, where the Alps meet Provence. From our wonderful hotel, we will have a wealth of interesting routes to choose from. There are paths leading up towards the passes above us, the plain below us or a neighbouring valley through pine forests or via rocky hillsides. On one day, we may walk up to Dormillouse with its lakes and waterfalls on the edge of the Les Ecrins National Park. On another day, we will walk up to one of the very comfortable mountain refuges where we will stay overnight to get a real sense of the surrounding mountains. The Alpine flowers will be at their glorious best and we expect the mountainsides to be carpeted in colour. There is one free day to simply relax or perhaps hire a local guide for further adventures – perhaps try France’s only via ferrata if you ‘re feeling brave! Price includes: 7 nights full board accommodation (6 nights hotel / 1 night mountain refuge); transport to walks; airport transfer meeting certain flights. Single rooms available on 6 nights at a total supplement of £105. Not included: flight to Turin. 2-9 June (Sat-Sat) Intermediate Les Freissinieres, French Alps £910 19 Greece – Peloponnese Our much-loved Greek walking holiday is based in beautiful Kardamili, in the wild area of Mani, Southern Peloponnese. The walks give us the chance to explore the history and culture as well as the truly magnificent scenery around us. April is the perfect time for us to enjoy the host of wild flowers that abound here. Most of the routes follow old mule tracks “kalderimi” between villages and give us the chance to see truly unspoilt parts of the area. The descent of the spectacular Viros Gorge is a highlight of the week, along with swimming in secluded coves and glimpsing into beautiful frescoed churches. We will stop in village kafeneons for coffee, or sometimes lunch, and to watch the world go by. There will be 5 days walking with an optional excursion on the free day. Price includes: 7 nights B&B, airport transfer at certain times, transport to walks. Single rooms are available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. Not included: flight to Kalamata, lunch and dinner. 28 Apr-5 May (Sat-Sat) Intermediate Peloponnese, Greece £700
Greece – Peloponnese, History and Culture Stunning walks, ancient ruins, beautiful turquoise sea, breath-taking mountains… this holiday in Greece has it all! This two centre holiday explores some of the impressive Ancient and Byzantine sites of the Peloponnese region. This week will be a delight for walkers, photographers and those wanting to experience the glory of Ancient Greece. Our first stop is Pylos, one of the most beautiful small towns of Messinia. Our hotel is in an exceptional location beneath the 13th century castle and right on the stunning bay. From our base at Pylos we will head to Sfaktiria, an uninhabited island with amazing rock formations and also explore the mythical Nestor’s Cave set above a lovely sandy cove. We will visit the substantial ruins at Ancient Messini – one of the country’s major historical attractions. We will also spend time at historic Methoni with its stunning castle ruins, bordered on three sides by the turquoise sea. For the second half of the week we will stay in a charming guesthouse in the mountain village of Mystras near Sparta. Here we visit the UNESCO world heritage site where we will find the substantial ruins of this 13th Century town. We will also walk in the foothills of the Taygetos mountains with time to savour its scenery, churches and villages. Price includes: 7 nights bed and breakfast accommodation; entrance fees to 4 sites; transport to walks; airport transfer from/to Kalamata at certain times. Single rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. Not included: flight, lunch and dinner. 23-30 Sep (Sun-Sun) Low Int. Peloponnese, Greece History & Culture £850
Greece – Crete Our new walking and yoga holiday in Crete offers the chance to relax and enjoy the beautiful island of Crete at a leisurely pace. The holiday allows plenty of free time for relaxation, contemplation, swimming and generally enjoying your surroundings. There will be a yoga session in the morning followed by a gentle walk of between 2.5 and 4 hours. On the walks, we will discover splendid scenery alongside archaeological sites, medieval chapels, quaint fishing ports, local crafts and much more. On returning from the walk you have time to yourself before meeting again in the early evening for a further yoga session before dinner in a local taverna. Our yoga teacher uses a blend of Hatha Yoga, Anusara Yoga, Bhakti Flow and Therapeutic Yoga. Price includes: 7 nights bed and breakfast accommodation; 1 evening meal; airport transfer meeting certain flights. Single ensuite rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. Not included: flight to Chania; lunch; 6 dinners; any local transport; any entrance fees. 6 – 13 Oct (Sat - Sat) Gentle Crete Walking and Yoga £960
“I had a great time! I don’t go away very much and I wasn’t sure what an all-women holiday would be like, but I am glad I took the plunge. Women and walking definitely go together. There was a good mix of people and the guides were excellent. The accommodation was comfortable, the walks excellent and a lot of fun, and I enjoyed the photos on the website after the holiday”.
20 Greece – Lesvos Join us on the beautiful Greek island of Lesvos for a varied programme of walks from our base in Skala Eressos, a coastal town surrounded by a stunning amphitheatre of volcanic rock and hills. We will explore the nearby petrified forest, ancient chapels, monasteries, waterfalls and beaches during the week. There will also be plenty of time to relax and enjoy the beach and waterfront tavernas at Skala Eressos. Birthplace of 7th Century BC poet, Sappho, Lesvos is a popular destination for women travellers from around the world. We will have exclusive use of the Mascot Hotel where all rooms have private balcony. Your guide will arrange for the group to eat together in the evenings (not included). Price includes: 7 nights bed and breakfast in twin ensuite rooms, transport to walks, airport transfer at certain times. Single rooms available at £15 per night supplement – book early! Not included: flight to Mytilini, lunch, dinner, any entrance fees. 21-28 Apr (Sat-Sat) Low Intermediate Lesbian Lesvos, Greece – NEW! £685 Italy Tuscany – Walk and Taste Join us on this 3-centre tour of Tuscan trails and cuisine. Our holiday starts in rural Garfagnana, staying for 3 nights at a wonderful agriturismo with stunning mountain views. From here, we will explore the local hills and villages on foot. We will visit a small cheese factory and enjoy a demonstration of local recipes. Next, we move on to the captivating city of Lucca, enclosed by dramatic walls and famous for its wine and olive oil production. Here we will walk in an area of splendid villas, visiting a local wine producer. After 2 nights in Lucca, we head to Florence where we will have free time to explore this fascinating city. From Florence, we will spend a day in the heart of Chianti where we will walk through typical Tuscan countryside of rolling hills and vineyards. We will, of course, sample the famous Chianti wine before heading back to Florence for the evening. The holiday includes a free day to explore Lucca or Pisa. Price includes: 7 nights bed and breakfast in twin ensuite rooms – 3 nights agriturismo / 4 nights hotel; 4 lunches; 3 dinners; transport to walks; airport transfer meeting certain flights. Single rooms available – £20 per night supplement. Not included: flight to Pisa; 3 lunches; 4 dinners. 3-10 Jun (Sun-Sun) Low Intermediate Walk and Taste Tuscany – NEW! £920 Tuscany – Walking Our fabulous northern Tuscany holiday takes place in the magnificent Garfagnana valley, set between the green, rolling Apennine mountains and the more rugged “marble mountains” of the Alpi Apuane. The two mountain ranges offer a wonderful variety of terrain and spectacular views. Our walks will be through woods to attractive hillside villages, and on rough mountain tracks where the ‘ups’ will be rewarded by extensive views as far as the Ligurian coast. We will have a free day with an option to visit the beautiful walled city of Lucca with its marble clad churches and winding streets, or to take time out and relax by the pool back at the agriturismo. Price includes: 7 nights full board except for 1 lunch & 1 evening meal; shared transfer from Pisa; transport to walks. Single rooms available from £12.50. Not included: flight to Pisa. 16-23 Sep (Sun-Sun) Intermediate Tuscany, Italy £860 Italy – Dolomites Skiing, Val di Fassa Imagine waking up opposite wonderful mountains, enjoying a delicious breakfast then skiing down a white immaculate piste, crossing the tracks of wild animals and feeling the early morning breeze on your face... This is not a dream but is the start of the day on our winter ski holiday. We will be based in the Ciampedie ski resort, well connected to the Sella Ronda and the famous Marmolada descent. Everywhere there is magnificent scenery and breath-taking views. We will be based at the cosy Rifugio Negritella. For this holiday you should be able confidently to ski blue and red runs and be willing to tour around the ski area at a good pace. Lessons available. Price Includes: 7 nights part board; all transport to ski area; airport transfer at certain times. Single rooms are available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. Not included: Flights to Venice Marco Polo; lunches. 24 Feb–3 Mar (Sat-Sat) Intermediate Dolomites Skiing £790 21 Italy – Dolomites Natural History An opportunity to enjoy some of the most famous mountains in the world: the Dolomites. This unique area has breath-taking views and the summer Alpine meadows are full of flowers, birds, butterflies and marmots all bursting with colours and sounds that enchant and thrill. Rifugio Negritella is situated in the heart of these mountains at 1,986m and is only accessible via a cable car. All the rooms in this wonderful traditional refuge are ensuite, and each night the scents and simple, wholesome flavours of the local gastronomic tradition will surprise you. Each day we explore a different route through Alpine woods, pastures and cols. The walks are graded as ‘Low Intermediate Alpine’ and this means that two walks include descents of 520m and 485m respectively, a little more than the grade description. However, the pace will be slow and so perfect for natural history walks. There’ll be a free day, when you can visit the ‘Iceman’ in Bolzano, go shopping or relax with a good book. Price includes: 7 nights full board; ensuite twin rooms; airport transfer at certain times; transport to walks. Single rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. Not included: Flights to Venice Marco Polo. 26 Jun-3 Jul (Tue-Tue) Low Intermediate Dolomites Natural History £820 Norway – Cross Country Skiing In 2018, we will be returning to the awe-inspiring landscape of Espedalen in Norway for an exhilarating week of cross country skiing. Our very welcoming mountain hotel is situated in the Peer Gynt Ski Region, a ski destination steeped in history. The holiday offers magnificent panoramic views, impressive sunsets, a stable climate and very reliable snow conditions. Prepare to be impressed by the pristine snow and beautiful surroundings. The holiday is aimed at both beginners and intermediate skiers as there will be 2 cross-country skiing groups each day. Our base is the Dalseter Mountain Hotel, situated at 930m. There is a swimming pool with saunas and a small gym to enjoy after your day in the mountains. Grethe is a fabulous host and will ensure your stay is one to remember. Price includes: 7 nights full board in twin ensuite rooms. Single rooms available if you book early – supplement £15 per night. Cross-country ski equipment hire / lift pass / local bus fares as required /airport transfer at certain times. Not included: flight to Oslo; any alternative activities. 10-17 Mar (Sat-Sat) Norway Cross Country Skiing £1,045 Poland The High Tatras mountains are among the most rugged and spectacular in Europe, part of the granite Carpathian Range, rising to almost 2500m. The dramatic scenery, combined with a sophisticated network of footpaths, makes Poland a popular walking destination. We trek through valleys, past lakes and over ridges. The walking is hard but rewarding, the terrain tough but beautiful. One day we could ride the cable car up to Kasprowy Wierch and so begin our walk with 1,940m already under our belt. From here a broad and well-walked ridge path stretches along the Polish/Slovakian border. The National Park is a pristine area with abundant wild flowers and animals. On the higher ground these include marmot, lynx and eagles, as well as the 60 or so bears that roam the park - they generally feed on berries and keep away from humans! Price includes: 7 nights full board (5 hotel / 2 refuge); NP fees; gondola ride; airport transfer meeting certain flights; walks transport. Single rooms available on 5 nights – total supplement £70. Not included: flight to Krakow. 1-8 Sep (Sat-Sat) High Level Poland – NEW! £725 Portugal – Algarve Wildlife and Bird Watching A fabulous bird watching tour in the Algarve and Alentejo with excursions in search of southern Portugal’s resident and migrant birds. The trip includes visits to Cape St Vincent, Alentejo, Castro Marim Nature Reserve and a boat trip in the Ria Formosa Natural Reserve. The Algarve is famous for its fine beaches, golf courses and beautiful coastline but the region’s attraction as a bird watching destination has tended to be overlooked. However, it really does provide top- class birding. Its wonderful variety of habitats and geographical location attract a wealth of breeding and wintering species and at migration times, it is an important stopover area for countless birds making their way to or from Africa. Price includes: 7 nights twin ensuite part board accommodation; all excursions and transport; airport transfer meeting certain flights. Single rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. Not included: flight to Faro; lunches. 3-10 Nov (Sat-Sat) Gentle Portugal Wildlife and Bird Watching £850 22 Portugal – Algarve Walking A walking tour designed to explore the Algarve’s open countryside with pretty villages, historic monuments and natural reserve areas. The Algarve is famous for its fine beaches and beautiful coastline and it is also truly wonderful walking country. We will be based in Tavira, the “Venice of the Algarve”, from where we will explore the surrounding villages, located on fertile limestone and characterized by an abundance of olive, carob, fig and almond trees. Peaceful inland scenery of lemon, orange and almond trees, olive groves and sleepy villages... Each walk is full of colour, wildlife and history. You’ll see a Portugal you’ve never imagined existed and that you’ll never forget! Price includes: 7 nights twin ensuite part board accommodation; all transport; airport transfer meeting certain flights. Single rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. Not included: flight to Faro and lunches. 10 – 17 Nov (Sat-Sat) Low Intermediate Algarve, Portugal – NEW! £760 Spain – Camino de Santiago The Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James) is made up of a varied network of ancient pilgrim routes meandering across Europe and uniting at the tomb of St. James (Santiago) in Santiago de Compostela in northwest Spain. By far the most popular route is the French Way which stretches 780 kilometers (500 miles) from St. Jean-Pied-du-Port near Biarritz in France to Santiago in Galicia. For our holiday, we will follow the last 119km (73.5 miles) of this route, sufficient to merit the Compostela certificate. During our trek, we will enjoy beautiful scenery, walk through many delightful hamlets, discover local customs, meet fellow walkers, taste delicious local food and wine and have time to savour the unique atmosphere of this ancient pilgrim’s route. Most of the walking is on fairly flat ground with good paths. Our days will vary between reasonably short days with the opportunity to rest and explore (or perhaps take an afternoon siesta) and some longer days. The longest day is around 25.5km (16 miles) and the shortest 14km (9 miles). Although some women may wish to complete the Camino as a pilgrimage, a suitable level of fitness is still required to complete the sometimes long walking days involved. For 2018, we have included an extra last day in Santiago when you are free to visit the city. Price includes: 8 nights half board accommodation (water and wine incl with eve meals); luggage transfer; airport transfer at certain times; pilgrim’s passport. Single ensuite rooms available if you book early – £20 per night supplement. Not included: flight to Santiago, lunch. 12-20 May (Sat-Sun) Long Distance Camino de Santiago, Spain £930 Spain – Catalonia Catalonia is a region full of natural wonders, fascinating cultural heritage and rich gastronomy. Join us to discover the diversity of landscape: from Mediterranean forest to wild coastline walks, vineyards, ancient monasteries and fishing villages combined with wonderful gastronomy and wine tasting. We will stay in a lovely 4* hotel in coastal Calella on the Costa Brava. From here our walks will include Montserrat with its famous Black Madonna and Tossa del Mar, inspiration for many artists. On one day, we will walk through an eco-vineyard in Alella and enjoy a taste of their produce. Tapas will naturally be a feature! There will also be a free day when you can simply relax or choose to join a guided tour of Barcelona or Girona (not included). Price includes: 7 nights half board in twin ensuite rooms; 4 lunches; transport to walks; airport transfer meeting certain flights; guided visit to wine cellar; Modernism museum entrance. Single rooms available – £15 per night supplement. Not included: flight to Barcelona; 3 lunches. 13-20 Oct (Sat-Sat) Low Intermediate Walk and Taste Catalonia – NEW! £890 Spain – Mallorca Discover the hidden gems of the northwest coast of Mallorca, the largest of the Spanish Balearic Islands. We will explore Mallorca’s astonishingly pretty rural scenery, walking local mule tracks to sleepy villages in the Soller valley, along wooded coastal paths and even tackling one of the gentler stretches of the famous GR221 (Dry Stone Way). Whilst walking under the Mediterranean sun, we will enjoy panoramic views of impressive limestone peaks and the rugged surrounding coastline with its secluded coves. April is a popular month to walk in this area with spring flowers and an abundance of orange blossom all around. There will be plenty of opportunity to sample the local produce, fresh seafood, tapas, homemade paella and Mallorcan wine too. We will be staying in the newly refurbished Citric Hotel in Port Soller, a basic but comfortable hotel overlooking the charming harbour. Price includes: 7 nights bed and breakfast in ensuite rooms (single rooms available if you book early – £15 per night); transport to walks; airport transfer at certain times. Not included: flight to Palma de Mallorca; lunch and dinner 28 Apr-5 May (Sat-Sat) Low Intermediate Mallorca £700 23 Spain – Tenerife, Canary Islands The tropical location of Tenerife, an island archipelago off the western coast of Africa, makes it a perfect winter and spring destination. The island has striking volcanic landscapes, and many species of plants and animals that are found only there. Tenerife was referred to by Charles Darwin as ‘perhaps one of the most interesting places in the world’. This holiday is guided by Marian Sutton BSc. Hons Earth Science, MSc. Biodiversity and Conservation. Tenerife is one of her favourite places; it has great walking and a huge variety of interesting landscapes and ecosystems. Hotel Alta Montana offers comfortable ensuite twin and single rooms, a swimming pool, a generous breakfast and packed lunches. Evening meals, organised by your guide are in Vilaflor’s small restaurants (not included from £10). Price includes: 7 nights bed and breakfast in twin ensuite rooms, 5 lunches, transfer meeting certain flights, all transport to walks. Single ensuite rooms available if you book early – £15 per night supplement. Not included: flight to Tenerife South, dinner, lunch on free day. 17-24 Mar (Sat-Sat) Intermediate Tenerife £720
Turkey – Turkish Coast Walking & Sailing Climb aboard the traditionally built wooden sailing boat and allow your captain and crew to sail you around the intricate coastline, dropping you off for walks through traditional villages, cooling pine forests and wildflower-lined mountains. When you’re not walking you can relax, take a leisurely swim or try out some snorkelling! There will be time to experience the local culture and history, exploring the many ancient ruins and indulging at the thermal mud baths. The walks are low intermediate in grade with one or two steeper sections. The holiday is priced on a full board basis with the most delicious meals served on deck in the evening. Many women return home saying this is the best holiday they have ever had; a perfect combination of relaxation and activity and the food is wonderful! Price includes: 7 nights full board in ensuite twin cabins (Ensuite single supplement £15 a night); shared transfer from airport; crewed yacht & all transport to walks. Not included: Flight to Dalaman; Turkish tourist visa; drinks from the bar; tip for crew. 2-9 Apr (Mon-Mon) Low Intermediate Turkish Coast Walking & Sailing £800 Rest of the World… Costa Rica Costa Rica – a tropical jewel of vivid colours, lush, virginal rainforest, simmering volcanoes, stunning beaches and wondrous wildlife! Our birding and wildlife holiday offers an unforgettable experience in this little slice of paradise. From San Jose we travel into the mountains to take in the pristine cloud forests of Monteverde and Santa Elena which drip with mist, mossy vines, sprouting ferns and gushing creeks. After this we travel to the Pacific Ocean and stay in Jaco. From here we take a boat trip surrounded by seasonally flooded forest and a host of interesting wildlife. On the other days, we visit the two stunningly beautiful National Parks of Carara and San Antonio Manuel. Carara National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most famous birding destinations with birds typical of both tropical dry and wet forest. Meanwhile, the warm sparkling blue waters of San Antonio Manuel National Park offer unique swimming opportunities as well as playful monkeys. We leave Jaco to spend our last three days at the water bound National Park of Tortuguero, fringing the Caribbean Sea. Here we stay in a remote village, and take a relaxed boat- borne safari through the extensive series of natural canals which wind through thick jungle forest and may see shy caiman, river turtles, monkeys and sloths. Price includes: 13 nights bed and breakfast, 5 packed lunches, NP entrance fees, local guide fees, boat trip, ferry trip, minibus transport. Single rooms available on some nights – £20 per night supplement. Not included: flight to San Jose, dinner, 8 packed lunches. 13-27 Jan (Sat-Sat) Gentle Costa Rica Birdlife and Wildlife £1,490
“Excellent choice of route, relaxed and sensitive leadership – more like walking with a group of friends rather than being on a guided holiday. I don’t like being ‘over-organised’, this holiday allowed me to have sufficient control of my day which I thoroughly appreciated”.
24 India India is a land with a rich cultural heritage combined with abundant wildlife and, on this tour, we will encompass both aspects of this fascinating country. In culturally rich towns such as Delhi, Karauli and Jaipur, we will walk in the vibrant and bustling lanes of the city and learn about the local culture and history. We will visit forts and palaces along with local markets and the Taj Mahal – one of the Seven Wonders of the World. On our wildlife safari, we will first visit the Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest bird sanctuaries in the world with over 300 species of birds. We will then visit the Kaila Devi National Park and enjoy its huge variety of birds and mammals. We will then move on to Ramthanbore National Park where we will attempt to catch a glimpse of the majestic tiger at one of the best sanctuaries in India. Price includes: 9 nights accommodation in quality hotels/lodges; all breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners; all transport in air-conditioned vehicles; a local guide throughout; rickshaw ride in Delhi; jeep safari; game drive; entrance fees. Single rooms available if you book early – £20 per night supplement. Not included: flight to Delhi; any meals not mentioned above; tips. 19-29 Nov (Mon-Thu) Gentle Culture and Wildlife of Rajasthan, India £1,650
Morocco – Jebel Sahro EXTRA NIGHT ADDED! We are pleased to offer this amazing trek through the dramatic remote mountain landscape of the Jebel Sahro in Morocco. The perfect destination for a winter sun trek and an opportunity to walk through the lands of the nomadic Berber people. Lying between the High Atlas Mountains and the edge of the Sahara Desert the area has much variety to offer the trekker. There are lofty pinnacles, extraordinary flat-topped mountains, deep gorges and very welcome fertile oases. This is a truly memorable landscape to be savoured. Its inhabitants, the Ait Atta, move from season to season between the Sahro region and the Atlas Mountains to seek food for their animal herds. Our highly professional team will prepare all meals and erect our tents! The holiday includes the first night and the last 2 nights in Marrakech. The last day will include a guided tour of this amazing, bustling city with its famous medina and winding streets full of sounds and smells. Price includes: 9 nights full board (3 hotel / 4 tent / 2 Berber house); city tour; airport transfer at certain times. Single room / tent available on 7 nights – £140 supplement for the entire trip. Not included: flight to Marrakech, tips 17-26 Mar (Sat-Mon) High Int. Jebel Sahro Trek, Morocco £840
Nepal The incredible experience of trekking in Nepal need not be purely for high- level walkers. The temples of Kathmandu, the serenity of Phewa Tal (‘Fish Tail Lake’) in Pokhara, and the breath-taking views of the Himalaya are all features of this intermediate holiday– including a 6-day circular trek to Gorapani in the Annapurna region. At Gorapani, weather permitting, we’ll climb Poon Hill and watch the sun rise over the magnificent Annapurna range. There’ll be bamboo forests and huge rhododendron trees, monkeys, steep stone steps that we’ll take as slowly as we need, and little villages dotting the terraced hillsides where we’ll stop for tea. Our accommodation is in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara and simple tea houses on the trek (basic accommodation with clean rooms and filtered water. Some have squat toilets). Luggage is transported for you – you carry a daypack only. Price includes: 13 nights in Nepal in twin rooms & all costs except visa, entrance fees, tips, & snacks/evening meals when not on trek. Flight to Kathmandu is not included. 31 Mar-14 Apr (Sat-Sat) Intermediate Nepal £1,500
“The word ‘enjoy’ is hardly strong enough for the feeling of pleasure and satisfaction that it gave” 25 Sri Lanka This tour is a true adventure that will give you an insight into the country’s beautiful wilderness. After the first night in a beach hotel, we drive to the mountains where your local guide will reveal the secrets of the jungle and the way of life of villagers. More excitement follows with white water rafting and an overnight climb to the summit of the iconic Adam’s Peak, plus a jeep safari to see wildlife including elephants. Finally, the reward you deserve, a night at a comfortable beach resort. Note: Adam’s Peak is 1000m ascent/descent on an easy stepped path. Price includes: 8 nights accommodation (2 nights full board camping/ 6 nights b/fast and dinner - hotels); all transport; game drive. Single rooms available if you book early – £20 per night supplement. Not included: flight to Colombo; 6 lunches; visa; tips. 17-26 Nov (Sat-Mon) Intermediate Sri Lanka Multi Activity £1,200
Swaziland Swaziland is ideal for our walking safari holiday – you will get up close to much of the wildlife as you’ll be able to approach on foot as well as in a jeep. So, if you would like to experience the unique opportunity to see rhino, giraffes and lions at close quarters then this is the trip of a lifetime for you! Swaziland also has a rich variety of birds so it’s an ideal trip for bird lovers too. You will gain access to places that you wouldn’t normally visit including projects designed to empower Swazi women. There are also plenty of opportunities for shopping from local craftspeople! Jenny is extremely knowledgeable about the country’s history and culture and shares her passion for the country with the group. The Swazi people are extremely friendly and a delight to meet. We stay in varied, extremely comfortable, expertly sourced lodgings throughout. Single rooms available if you book early – £20 per night supplement. Price includes: 11 nights accommodation; breakfast, dinner and 1 lunch; all transport; knowledgeable guide; local expert wildlife guides; airport transfer meeting certain flights. Single rooms available if you book early – £20 per night supplement. Not included: flight to Johannesburg, most lunches, tips. 16-29 Jun (Sat-Fri) Gentle Swaziland Wildlife and Safari £2,200
Tanzania – Kilimanjaro Kilimanjaro is the trek of a lifetime and one which will feed your memories for years to come. We will be taking the challenging and less travelled Lemosho route up to the “Roof of Africa”. The Lemosho route provides beautiful panoramic vistas, a feeling of remoteness and variety of scenery. We will experience rainforest, moorland, high Alpine desert, glaciers and volcano calderas! The Lemosho route is designed to aid acclimatisation and thus increase your chances of making the summit. There is no getting away from the fact that this is a tough trek but it is very much worth it! Our local team provide a highly professional service with a luxurious feel. All tents will be erected / dismantled for you and a professional cook will provide meals throughout. Price includes: 8 nights accommodation (2 nights guesthouse / 6 nights camping); all transport; all meals excl 1 lunch; fully supported trek; airport transfer meeting certain flights. Single room /tent available £20 per night supplement. Not included: Flights, tips, visa. 6-15 Oct (Sat- Mon) High Alpine Kilimanjaro Trek £2,200
“Everything was perfect and I cannot thank you enough for providing me with these opportunities to have a great time, terrific walks in marvellous company. I get more out of every WW holiday I take; I always come back feeling energised and keen to take on new challenges in walking and in other areas. These holidays bring out potential that had remained untapped until now…Wow!”
26 WalkingWomen
WalkingWomen has grown from small beginnings in 2000 to involve many differently talented women who tell you about themselves on these pages. However, it has also been shaped by the rich contributions of all the women who come on the holidays – funny, enthusiastic, generous, fascinating, friendly, and all so widely different! You make it special for us too – thank you! Sue Donovan Yvonne Hosker I have enjoyed walking and the I have been leading holidays for outdoors since I was a child. It WalkingWomen for over 10 years has been the perfect antidote to mainly in the Lakes, Peaks, Alps the stresses of life, as well as and Greece. I’m an independent an opportunity to watch nature facilitator based in Manchester and take photographs. I am at whose work involves training and my happiest when I am walking in the countryside and consultancy with government taking photos. I have worked as a research scientist, as a agencies, local authorities, national parks, etc. – focussing management consultant, and I am also a business and life on access to the countryside and recreation/conservation coach. When I discovered WalkingWomen in 2008, I was management. In my spare time I am an active mountaineer hooked! Then I discovered Diana wanted to sell WW, and and cyclist and know a fair amount about birds, flowers, some wonderful women helped me buy it. landscape history, etc.
Lorraine Roberts Madeline Holloway I’ve spent the past 20 years I am a freelance ecologist – nurturing my dual personality – protecting water voles, badgers, living in the city and escaping to bats and birds. I’ve always loved the mountains of North Wales, natural history – listening to the Lake District and Scotland when song of different birds, hunting for possible. As a founder member of orchids, discovering what is on ‘our a London walking group, I’ve led doorstep’ if we know what to look walks in the South East and further afield. In the past few for, or walking in the fells in search of wildlife rarities. years I have discovered the delights of Europe’s mountains At other times I love music, especially jazz and playing – the Alps, Pyrenees, Greece. the piano!
Marian Sutton Raffa Carzaniga I have always loved nature and I love skiing – it is one of my travelling. After working as a passions, and I learnt to ski early in photographer I returned to uni Italy where I was born. I also have to study Earth Sciences and a passion for bugs and their secret Conservation. Living in Yorkshire life (I am a biologist most of the gives me easy access to the Lakes, time!), photography, and the Arts. Scotland and North Wales. In 1992 In the past I guided for WWF in I first visited the Canaries, which started a fascination Italy. I love caring about people and sharing adventures, with the archipelago, and the Americas beyond. and look forward to sharing another fun WW skiing holiday with you! Clare Kelly In 1994 a friend invited me on the Sue Penn Annapurna Sanctuary trek in Nepal. I have worked variously as an This was the first time I had done ecologist and a teacher. I’ve always any serious walking. 5 years later I enjoyed walking and scrambling was back in Annapurna as a guide in mountains and wild areas, and haven’t stopped guiding since! from Chile to the Lake District My background helps in my day job and Scotland, so I took it further as office manager in our Sheffield office. I am here to help and got my Mountain Leadership ensure your holiday runs smoothly so do get in touch if qualification. Walking with women allows women to share you need any advice. good company and to gain confidence in their own skills.
27 Pam Satterthwaite Jo Bird I grew up in the Lake District and Although born a Londoner, I’ve Northumberland and have always lived in Yorkshire – Bradford and enjoyed the countryside. I love then Hebden Bridge – since my mid travelling and walking. As a member 20s. I feel so lucky to have wild of a northeast walking group, and beautiful countryside on my I lead walks throughout the region. doorstep, and easy access to the I look forward to sharing this Yorkshire Dales, Lake District and beautiful & relatively undiscovered area with lots of all the other wonderful places for walking in the north. walking women. I love to walk wherever I visit as its such a great way to see a place and meet new and interesting people. I Barbara Bailey really enjoy organising walks and making them into fun I grew up in London but am a and interesting days out for myself and others. I love country girl at heart. I try to escape travelling, rucksack on my back, and have done some to the hills or the low level walks of wonderful walking abroad, the highlights being in Nepal my adopted Suffolk countryside as and New Zealand. much as possible, especially after a stressful week working in the NHS. Clara Fleming Come rain or come shine, it doesn’t I escaped Manchester city life for matter, there is nothing like it on earth especially when the Lake District over 15 years ago shared with new friends! and still haven’t climbed all the mountains here – but I am trying! Gaynor Rees I’m a qualified mountain leader and Strolling through the countryside ski leader and I’m always planning the company is fabulous, the new adventures and discovering women are amazing, the birds are wonderful places to hike or ski, not only in Europe, North singing and the sun is shining. America and New Zealand but also here right on my Well, it might be raining, but doorstep. I really enjoy sharing my enthusiasm for outdoor the waterproofs are holding and adventure with other women and I love the group’s sense anyway, the Galaxy tastes better of achievement on reaching a destination, whether it’s the with every step. Come on, what are you waiting for? top of a mountain or the teashop at the end of a great day’s walk. Brenda Whisker Walking - whether it be mountains, Anne Bektas valleys, moorland or woods – I Anne guides our Turkish Coast love it all and have been doing Walking & Sailing holidays. She it for many years. Walking for is based on East Meets West, a me is not just about physical traditional Turkish gulet. “After exercise; it’s about good company, some time of enjoying the view conversations, fun, time to observe, of these glorious mountains from breathe deep and relax. Living in the South Pennines, I the sea, I became curious about love exploring its open moors, deep cut valleys, geological what I could find within them. I never imagined that history and rich industrial heritage too. I would stumble across ruined Roman villages, ancient Greek settlements, shepherds still living very basic, rural Chrissie Amey lives, beautiful spring flowers and wonderful views to boot. I have lived in the Quantock Hills I was hooked, Adil would drop me off in a little bay and for 30 years. I’ve come to love I would set off on a mission to see if I could meet him at their unspoilt beauty and wonderful the next bay. Having guided many groups I now wonder walking opportunities. I also work why I hadn’t discovered the joys of walking much sooner!” in the local FE college with learners recovering from mental health problems. In my past I had a background in dressmaking and fashion, and I also managed a small herd of milking goats! I now live in an eco house and enjoy growing my own vegetables.
28 Mo McRoberts Mary Droney Mountains, mountains everywhere Having grown up on a small farm just waiting to be explored – so in the west of Ireland, I am now come on walking women! When I privileged to be living there again, finished my Post Grad in Outdoor after many years working in business Education my first job was working and tourism. The natural beauty, at Outward Bound, Ullswater and unique landscape and rural culture despite the weather, the Lakes is of the area has inspired me to share where I still live and work. There’s always something to my local knowledge with anyone who will listen! My love of do in the mountains in any season. It’s not just getting travelling and exploring has taken me to many countries and to the top, it’s the emotions and feelings experienced on I believe that every day should be an adventure. the way and the camaraderie of walking with others that makes each journey unique. Martha King I’m a retired teacher who grew up Anita Grey in the hills and snow of upstate I have worked in my beloved New York. Winter was one of my Snowdonia and worldwide for over favourite seasons for outdoor 25 years running team & confidence sports, but it was a Walking Women building, and trainings for all holiday which introduced me to the levels and ages, including women’s joys of cross country skiing and groups. I am an International snow shoeing. Come on a cross country skiing holiday Mountain Leader (BAIML) and with Walking Women and share with me the delights I teach both Alexander Technique and climbing. I believe of two invigorating snow sports in an enchanted winter we learn best when we are at ease and having fun! wonderland.
Caroline Herbert Suzanna Cruickshank An escaped social worker, for the I first worked for WalkingWomen past 10 years I have split my time in the office with Diana and loved between North East England and chatting about the all the fantastic Mani, Greece. I spend time leading holiday locations on offer. I am walks, creating a garden and delighted to return as a guide in running a small bed and breakfast. the Lake District where I now live. Leading walks here is always a joy, For me walking in the hills and with delights at every turn. I enjoy sharing my knowledge swimming go hand in hand and I’m looking forward to of Greece with others and the fun, and the unexpected sharing some of my favourite routes and dips with you. that comes from working with groups. Debbie Walker Fiona Clark After being introduced to Growing up in a family of ramblers, hillwalking (and route marches!!) from a young age I have always in the army, I fell in love with the enjoyed walking in the countryside. mountains. I am now retired from I spent 5 years travelling the world the police and can dedicate more where I was able to take part in time to my passion. I am a qualified many wonderful walks and hikes. mountain leader and I also run my Some of my favourites have been own diverse business from event management for people The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Half Dome in Yosemite who want to raise money for charity, teaching police and The Great Wall of China. Now, I am able to use my officers (and other public-sector workers) and assisting at experiences in my role in the WalkingWomen office. I am an outdoor education centre. I love meeting new people here to answer any questions you may have and ensure you and spending my time in the hills. have a fantastic holiday with us.
“Wonderful walks, friendly and very knowledgeable guide with a great sense of humour. So many laughs”
29 WalkingWomen – General Information
If you’ve only discovered us recently – or you are just getting into walking – it’ll be good to meet and walk with you. Most women come on their own, and lots of women join us who have never been on a walking holiday before. In the Calendar on pages 3-5 you can see each holiday’s dates. To find out more about our grades and decide which one will suit you best, please take a look at our grade descriptions on our website or give us a call and we’ll be happy to help you choose the best one for you. Here’s what to expect… • Friendly women – usually 10-12 in each walking group – of all different backgrounds and ages; that’s part of the fun and it brings a richness to the conversations and socialising that goes on. Many women say they haven’t laughed so much in a long while, yet it’s also easy to take space if you wish. “Does anyone else come on their own?” Yes, you’ll find that most women do! All women are welcome. • A helpful guide to show you lovely walks you might otherwise miss, and who is usually around into the evening too. We try not to make things too ‘organised’ – more like holidaying with a group of friends. Just sometimes your guide will have to make a decision based on the safety of the whole group. • The evening is spent eating together, getting to know each other, playing games, taking a stroll to the pub – or having an early night with a book. • In the morning, we usually set off walking between about 9.00 to 9.45 once we’ve sorted ourselves out after breakfast. When we get back depends largely on the grade of the walk. There’s then time for a shower, a stroll into the village before supper or a drink in the bar. In the UK, the last day’s walk is a little shorter to allow you to get away by 2pm. On foreign holidays there isn’t usually a walk on the last day as we’ve further to travel. • “Is everyone very fit?” & “What pace will we be walking?” Even very fit women ask this question! Like the rest of the population, the women who come cover the whole range of fitness – from those who only walk on pavements when shopping, to those who regularly walk in the hills. Of course, the fitness and pace of these two will vary considerably and we offer a wide range of grades to match this. Between these extremes are many women who are reasonably fit, do some regular exercise and who are often delighted to find they are fitter than they thought! Erring on the side of caution is safer than choosing too high a grade and hoping “I’ll be fitter by then!” Our experience is that you can’t just force your fitness up a notch overnight and you won’t enjoy trying. However, if you read the grade descriptions carefully, they will help you choose a holiday with other women of similar fitness and pace. If you can’t decide, there are holidays that offer two grades of walks that you can choose from each day. Alternatively, give us a ring in the WW office – we’re always happy to help you decide! Please book as early as you can; this gives you the best chance of getting a place on the holiday of your choice and of being able to have a single room. It also helps WW keep going (fewer cancelled places and/or holidays) and less admin which gives us the ability to keep offering very competitive prices and great value for money!
“Spending time with people who share my love of walking was a great experience” “My first time in a youth hostel, my first time in the Lake District and my first time with WalkingWomen – its been terrific”. “The perfect antidote to a busy stressful life!!” “I didn’t want to go home and can’t wait to come back”. “These holidays are the most relaxing holidays I’ve ever had”.
30 Discount We have worked hard to get the best prices we can and offer you great value for money. We also give you £20 off every third holiday in the same calendar year via our ‘Frequent Walker Miles’, our way of rewarding loyal customers. In addition, if you book another holiday within two weeks of returning from your break, we’ll take £20 off the price as a ‘Welcome Back’ loyalty discount. Walking Grades – Choose from Very Gentle to High Alpine We offer a wide range of grades of walk to suit all levels of experience and fitness. The diagram below gives a summary of each grade, starting with Very Gentle (around 3 miles, mainly on the flat), all the way up to High Alpine. If you need more information, please see our website www.walkingwomen.com or call us on +44 (0)114 241 2774. UK holiday arrangements and travel times We don’t usually walk on the first day of the holiday, except on weekend breaks where there may be a Friday afternoon walk. You can usually get into your room from 2pm – but please check the details on your Booking Confirmation. Your guide will arrive by 5pm and will leave a message at reception to say where she’ll be at that time. Dinner is generally at 7pm – so do tell us if you think you will be late in case we can hold your meal. The walk on the last day is shorter, and we are generally back by 2pm. However, on High Level w/e breaks we are often not back until 3.30pm. On most UK treks, there is no walk on the last day of the holiday. Travel directions and what to bring We send full travel directions when you book, as well as a list of what to bring. The venue’s nearest station is mentioned in each holiday information sheet. Long distance train journeys are usually cheaper if booked 8-12 weeks in advance. For all train times & prices, visit www.nationalrail.co.uk and for help booking tickets we recommend Gates Travel in Ambleside: they will find you the best price. Gates Travel: 015394 33200. Accommodation The places we stay vary considerably and this is reflected in the price we charge – from charming small hotels and inns, to moderately priced B&Bs, ideally located hostels or mountain refuges. The prices are based on sharing a room with another member of the group unless it says otherwise. Singles are often available (often with supplements). In refuges, you mostly sleep in bunk beds sharing a dormitory with other members of the group. Breakfast and packed lunches are included unless it says otherwise. If the holiday is ‘part board’, we give you an idea of the cost of an evening main course. Taking time out – other things to do Whether you walk each day is up to you; it’s only tricky if you want to take time out on a trekking day! There are lots of other things to do – either for a day off or after walking. You might also want to explore on your own for a day, or take time off to sit under a tree to read, paint or enjoy the view!
31 Dogs We offer a selection of holidays on which dogs are welcome and will be allowed on the walks at the guide’s discretion if well-behaved, completely non-threatening, and kept under control at all times particularly around sheep. Assistance dogs are allowed on ALL holidays. Frequent Walker Miles We have a ‘Frequent Walker Miles’ scheme as a way of giving something back to you. This means that if you come on 3 holidays in a brochure year, we’ll take £20 off the 3rd one – and again off the 6th! Holidays abroad – flights, ATOL, transfers… On most holidays abroad, your guide will meet you at your departure airport or look for her as you come into the arrivals hall at your destination. We include the transfer to your accommodation on practically all non-UK holidays. Please see your holiday details sheet for the flights that it meets. The cost of your flight is not included in any holiday price. We believe that this gives the maximum flexibility for you to be able to choose your flight from a variety of airports (provided your flight fits with our transfers) and gives you the best chance of getting a good price using the low-cost flight companies if you wish, as well as the option to extend your stay. We suggest www.skyscanner.net to search for available flights. Buying your flight When buying your flight, please first check your holiday information sheet to see which flight/s will suit the transfer in each direction. WalkingWomen is not responsible for your transfer if you arrive at a different time or on a different flight than the one we have detailed. Many of our holidays are based at some distance from the airport and it will often be difficult or expensive for you to arrange your own transfer. Please contact the WW office before buying a different flight from the one/s given on your Holiday Information Sheet. You can buy your flights on the internet or over the phone (via an agent or directly with the flight company). We can help point you in the right direction. For example, we can let you have contact details for agents for long haul destinations who sometimes only request a deposit for your flight until 10 weeks before departure and can provide ATOL protection for the flight. WW cancellations We try our very best to run all of our holidays. Nevertheless, there are unfortunately situations where we may need to cancel a holiday. When holidays are undersubscribed we often run them on lower numbers than planned to avoid your disappointment. Sometimes, though, this is simply not possible. If WW cancels a holiday we repay you all of the money you have paid to us for the holiday. Single supplements Many people do not like to pay extra for a single room, however it is sometimes unavoidable. WW frequently charges a lower single supplement than we have to pay. We keep our single supplements as low as possible and we even have several holidays this year where you can have a single room without paying a supplement -subject to availability – book early!
“I thoroughly enjoyed my holiday with WW. I shared a room with a complete stranger, but because we shared a common interest in walking and scenery within minutes we were at ease with each other. Our guide was very helpful, considerate and paid equal attention to everyone, so we all felt included. I would certainly recommend WW holidays to my friends and look forward to receiving your next brochure ‘hot off the press’! Many thanks for a wonderful, invigorating short break”.
32 What is included in our holiday prices
• Every holiday price includes: the walks and guides; any activities – like yoga – that are specified as part of the holidays; and any other costs that are mentioned in the holiday description. On most UK holidays, there are walks arranged for every day apart from the day you arrive; the last day’s walk will be shorter to allow time to travel. On non-UK holidays and on some UK long distance trekking holidays there is usually no walk on the last day due to travel arrangements. You can walk every day or take time out whenever you feel like it (this is only not possible on a trekking day when we have a new destination to reach). • Unless we say otherwise, prices include: all luggage transport on trekking holidays; transport to walks or across a lake on a ferry if it’s a necessary part of the walk for that day; transfer from a non-UK airport to the holiday venue on most holidays abroad. Cable car transport and ferries are not automatically included since the weather might prevent them from running. • All accommodation is included for the number of nights specified, plus full or part board per number of nights (see individual holiday descriptions). Where full board is not provided it is generally because you will get a more economic deal with part board. Full board means that all breakfasts, packed lunches and most evening meals are included. Part board means that breakfast and packed lunch are included unless it says otherwise in the holiday description. On all holidays it is usual for us to eat together in the evening. • The price is based on you sharing a room, with a friend or another woman from the group. In Alpine refuges, it is based on you sharing a dormitory. The price of single and ensuite supplements varies by hotel and by the room types we have available at the time you book. A supplement is usually payable for single rooms and we often charge you less than the accommodation charges us. We do have a number of holidays where there is no single supplement. Please contact us to ask what rooms are available when you book. Please check your booking confirmation carefully; if it doesn’t say ensuite your room is not ensuite. • Sometimes it is possible to get extra nights before or after the holiday at our rates. We can book these for you, subject to availability and will charge a booking fee of £5 per night for this service. How to book a holiday When you’ve found a holiday that appeals to you, please phone us or email, or complete the Booking Form on the website. To find out more about where we stay please visit our website: www.walkingwomen.com. We look forward to hearing from you – and to walking with you soon!
33 Booking Details & Conditions
We don’t like small print either – but please read our Booking Conditions below: You can book by phone, by email or on the WW website. Our Contact Details are given at the bottom of this page. Payment A deposit of 20% is due when you book; the balance is due 8 weeks before the holiday starts or 12 weeks for non-UK holidays. Please put a note in your diary to remind you when it’s due – we do not send automatic reminders. If you are booking within 8 /12 weeks of the holiday, the full payment is due when you book. • By cheque: Cheques should be made payable to ‘WalkingWomen’ & sent to the address below. • By bank transfer to the WW bank account: Sort Code: 05-09-94 Account No: 25297671 • Or you can pay by credit or debit card over the phone – just give us a ring on 0114 241 2774. • There is no charge for any payment paid by cheque, bank transfer, or UK debit or credit card. However, we charge a 2% card-handling fee on all payments made by premium debit cards and all non-UK cards.
Booking Conditions We cannot return your deposit if you cancel, though it may be possible to put a cancelled deposit towards another new holiday within the same calendar year if we are able to fill your original place. We will return the balance of your holiday if we are able to refill your place. We will deduct an admin fee of £20 in both these situations. We cannot adjust the price of the holiday if you arrive late, have to leave early, or if you decide not to walk on one or more of the days. With our foreign holidays, we cannot accept responsibility if you miss your flight due to arriving later than the check-in time we have stated. We reserve the right to cancel or reschedule an advertised walk for reasons of safety, or to change the advertised guide should she suddenly become unavailable. The decision of the WalkingWomen guide running the holiday has to be final in matters of safety, route choice, inclusion of dogs other than assistance dogs, and questions as to the composition of the walking group if you have chosen a grade that is well beyond your capability. Dogs are only allowed on certain holidays, i.e. if the holiday title says “Dogs Welcome”. While every reasonable effort is made to ensure that the information provided in this brochure and on our website is accurate, no guarantees for the currency or accuracy of information are made. We reserve the right to make significant changes to holiday details should it become necessary due to situations outside our control. In the unlikely event of WalkingWomen cancelling a holiday, the money you have paid us will be refunded in full. We reserve the right to cancel your booking or change any of the facilities, services or prices described in our brochures or website. We will try to advise you of any changes known at the time of booking. We plan the arrangements for your tour many months in advance and may occasionally have to make changes, most of which are minor. Single supplements (supplement usually payable, single room based on availability at the time you book – book early for the best choice), Extra nights may be available before or after the holiday at our rates (booking fee £5 per night).
Insurance If you book a foreign holiday with WalkingWomen it is essential that you have sickness and injury insurance. We will require proof of insurance on arrival and will be unable to take women walking if they are not insured. Insurance against your having to cancel is highly recommended on ALL holidays. It also pays, if travelling in Europe, to carry an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card – replacing the E1.11) to reduce any medical charges payable at the time if you are ill or hurt. In addition, we strongly recommend that you take out travel insurance to cover UK holidays. For competitive insurance try: Columbus Direct Travel Insurance on 0800 068 0060 or Essential Travel on 0871 360 2712.
WalkingWomen Contact Details WalkingWomen, Scotia Works, Leadmill Road, Sheffield S1 4SE Phone/fax 0114 241 2774 or +44 (0) 114 241 2774 from outside the UK Email: [email protected] Website: www.walkingwomen.com
34 Photos clockwise from top right: India p25; Andorra p18; Borrowdale p8; Mallorca p23.
Photo Acknowledgements Thank you to all WW guides for their great photos in this brochure. Additional thanks for their kind permission go to: Sue Bradshaw & Jen Luscombe (back cover) We can supply a copy of the information in this brochure in large print if you require it. Please phone us on: 0114 241 2774
35 Book now to avoid disappointment!
WalkingWomen’s Contact Details: WalkingWomen, Scotia Works, Leadmill Road, Sheffield S1 4SE (UK) Phone: (+44) 0114 241 2774 Email: [email protected] Website: www.walkingwomen.com
Printed on 100% recycled paper from both pre and post consumer sources.
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