This was an excellent week of walking. The paths are steep in some places but well defined and Jose guided us with care and attention on the challenging ascents and descents of the Sierra Aitana. The walks were well-paced by Jose but the days are long so you do need to be fit. We trekked through a number of landscapes illustrating the historic and current use of the area and Jose with his local knowledge enhanced our understanding of how this area has evolved over the centuries as well as the current challenges. The views from the walks were amazing – one way you could see the coast from Alicante to Benidorm and beyond and the other the folding valleys and mountains of the interior. The skies were blue and the days sunny and warm and we experienced very little wind even on the summits. We were based at the Hostel Rincon de Pepe where we had a wonderful week being looked after by Raquel. The food was amazing and hearty (three courses plus wine). The terrace was also great place to have breakfast every morning as the sun rose out of the Med, as well as a beer or two after the walk as the sun disappeared behind the mountains.
Walking Holidays in Norway
Norway Walking Holidays
Top Four Routes on a Norway Walking Holiday
Rondane National Park: Home to some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in Norway, Rondane National Park is a place where you can escape from the hustle and bustle and get back to nature. The park is made up of lichen and heather-strewn plateaus and remote waters that lie beneath the gaze of soaring peaks and the famous ethereal blue glow. Originally the park was created to protect reindeer, but you’ll also come across other wild animals and a wealth of birdlife on your travels. On our Venabu walking tour, you’ll hike to the summit of Store Ramshogda and explore the towering peaks of the Rondane massif, where you’ll witness the most awesome mountain views.
The Pilgrim’s Road: Laying claim to being the world’s most northerly pilgrimage route, the Pilgrim’s Road is a lesser-known route that often goes unrecognised. Following in the footsteps of St Olav, the trail takes you to Nidaros in Trondheim and it has a strong appeal for anyone wanting to go off the radar and enjoy total serenity. The sparsely inhabited landscapes of Jämtland, punctuated mostly by lakes and rivers, are popular stomping grounds for the local wildlife. Our guided walk steers you above the valley of Gudbrandsdalen and up to the ancient hillfort, where terrific views await and you can learn about the history of St Olav. We complete the walk with a trip to the iconic Ringebu Stave Church, which was originally built in the 13th century and is one of the last remaining churches of its kind in Norway.
Finnsjøvola: Framed by the majestic Rondane mountains, the lakes of Finnsjøvola offer a scenic walk along their shores. Atnasjøen Lake is arguably the most picturesque with its gin-clear waters and dramatic backdrop. Measuring five square kilometres, Atnasjøen lies between Sto-Elvdal and Sor-Fron and is a fabulous viewpoint for soaking up the mountain views. When the air is calm, the reflections of the mountains on its glossy surface are utterly mesmerising and make a stunning subject for budding photographers.
Dynjefjellet: This dramatic peak may often get overlooked but a hike up to its summit rewards you with 360° views that reach out across the Rondane mountains, Venabygdsfjellet and the distant glacial peaks of Jotunheimen. Early autumn is a great time to enjoy this walk as the landscape is ablaze with fiery reds and oranges. It’s also a great time to sample the lush blueberries, cranberries and cloudberries along the way. There’s a good chance when walking in Norway up to Dynjefjellett you’ll spot wild reindeer which have roamed the land since the last Ice Age.
Jane Hallett Sierra de Aitana Trek
Michael Dunford Sierra de Aitana TrekThis is a great week’s walking in a little-known (and underrated) part of Spain. The Aitana range is a compact set of mountains so you get to tick off almost all of it, and there are great views from the top of all the peaks, out to the coast and across to the surrounding peaks. Most of the walks are reasonably demanding, but also rewarding.
Being based in one location, with very short transfers (or none) for each walk makes for a very relaxing week aside from the walking. It’s also a fairly short transfer to/from Alicante Airport.
The vast majority of meals are included which makes it much better value than some other (apparently similarly priced) holidays.
Jose the guide is exceptional: hard-working, helpful, supportive and deeply knowledgeable about the area.
Sally James Sierra de Aitana TrekThank you to our leader, Chandra, guides Prasan, Sagar and Mingma and helpful group of porters for an amazing trek. Our group was also amazing, great company and full of interesting travel stories!
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