Definitely recommend this trip and here are ten reasons why you should book. 1. Guide (Jose) is really experienced, local expert, gets the balance of empathy/support and also (when required) makes difficult decisions in the best interests of the group e.g. it was too icy to reach the summit of Puig Campana and whilst that was disappointing it was the right decision (it had snowed on the Sunday we arrived – very unusual for the area). He is passionate about his job and clearly loves what he does 2. It is one of the most beautiful, scenic areas I have ever been to. Fabulous views 3. Lovely hotel, welcoming team, great breakfasts – thanks Raquel and Pepe. Tea/coffee/snacks available in room reserved for the group. Also there is a hairdryer there so no need to pack your own 4. Weather was fantastic (I’m just back). Clearly you can never guarantee the sun in Jan/Feb but it made for a perfect winter getaway 5. Good to have a free day to explore the local area. Great to chill out at the beach and test out the tram system 6. Most of the walks are straight out the front door – or a 5/10 minute bus ride away 7. You get full days of walking….be prepared for that as realise that might not be what everyone wants. Generally back by 5/6pm after leaving at 9am 8. Great mix of terrain, ascents, descents, summits, valleys etc. 9. Get to see the beautiful mountain villages 10. Fabulous paella on the last night….and lovely sandwiches each day (along with fruit and snacks). PS Read the trip notes in full. They are accurate and this is for experienced and confident walkers – see the section ‘is this trip for you?’
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Our Walking & Trekking Activity Levels
When grading our walking trips several factors are considered to help you find the comfort level that best suits you. These include length & duration of trek per day, trail conditions underfoot, average altitude change, weather conditions plus levels of porterage, support and local services available.
Activity Level 1: Leisurely Walking
Experience is not necessary; anyone fit and healthy enough to complete a weekend walk can manage a Leisurely, Level 1 walking departure. Walks are often optional. Trails are seldom flat, so expect a reasonable amount of ascent and descent. You would normally walk for two to five hours during the day and daily ascents will likely be around 300m to 500m, perhaps with the odd day ascending around 600m.
Activity Level 3: Moderate Walking
These Moderate, Level 3 walking departures are either fairly easy medium-duration walks or harder, shorter walks. No experience is necessary, but good health and reasonable fitness are important. Some walking at higher altitude and occasional longer/harder days may be involved, but general underfoot conditions will be fair. A walking day is normally five to seven hours and daily ascents will likely be around 500m to 800m, perhaps with the odd day ascending around 900m to 1000m.
Activity Level 5: Challenging Walking
Fitness is important at this grade, which compares to extended walking in mountainous terrain such as the Lakes or Snowdonia. High altitudes, climate and remoteness can also play a part. Previous trekking experience is desirable, but not vital if you are confident of your physical condition. Walking days are usually between six and eight hours, although they may be longer for passes or peaks. Daily ascents will likely be around 900m to 1000m, perhaps with the odd day ascending around 1100m to 1200m.
Activity Level 7: Tough Walking
At this level we recommend previous trekking experience, preferably at altitude. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. Extremes of altitude and weather may be encountered, as may the use of ice axes and crampons. Stamina is essential as walking days last six to nine hours, or more on occasional days, and daily ascents will likely be around 900m to 1000m, perhaps with the odd day ascending around 1100m to 1200m.
Activity Level 9: Tough+ Walking
A Level 9 tour combines all the elements of our Tough, Level 7 itineraries, but includes climbing a glaciated mountain peak. Specialist pieces of equipment like ice axes and crampons will be needed, and you should have experience of using them. Please check the trip notes carefully to ensure that your experience and equipment meets the demands of a Tough+ trip. When climbing, the peak days can be very long and you may be on your feet for 11 hours or more.
Split and optional grades
In order to provide a more accurate grading system, where a trip falls between two grades we use an intermediate or split grade – for example, Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate). Occasionally there are optional ascents available en route; in this case, the optional grade will be highlighted below the dial on each trip page.
Rachel Blackamore Sierra de Aitana Trek
Bon Barker Mt Toubkal Winter ClimbGreat trip with excellent guide, Lachen, who knows everyone on the mountain. Refuge was good. Sometime even had hot water for quick shower. Food excellent. Good mountaineering experience with crampons and ice axes. Not sketchy enough to require ropes and harnesses.
Andy Jones Mt Toubkal Winter ClimbI really enjoyed this trip. In fact I would do it again. The Moroccan Leader (Lahcen) and fellow trekkers were great. We all easily survived everything !. Standard fitness and an open minded attitude are all you need
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