Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Up in Cabana Malaieti watching flocks of sheep and the clouds passing over the Bucegi mountains above us.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent! The leader's grandparents were sheep farmers, and he had a wealth of knowledge about the local area, history and wild life. He adapted the itinerary to changing weather conditions and also provided easier alternatives to participants. Worked extremely hard driving the minibus, leading the walks and then sorting out accomodation and ordering meals at the huts. Also the staff at Villa Hermani were friendly.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Read the trip notes before travelling! This trip requires a high degree of fitness and ability to traverse rugged terrain in a remote area. Facilities at the mountain huts are basic - bring a sheet sleeping bag!

Most Inspirational Moment

I recall reaching the summit of the Aiguillette de Posettes and feeling like I had been transported to a scene from the Sound of Music. Crystal blue sky, majestic mountains, and just a newfound sense for the splendor of this beautiful world we live in.

Thoughts on Group Leader

This was the key ingredient. Adrian Redondo was our leader and he was so much more than that. This is a young man who lives for the mountains and his love for this environment was absolutely infectious. Adrian is remarkably fit and a strong technical climber whose capabilities make less seasoned hikers more comfortable and confident in his care. Beyond this, he is a charismatic individual who just infused our hikes with a sense of fun and awe for what surrounded us. A cosmopolitan traveler and thinker, he helped open my eyes anew to the beauty and adventure of these alpine landscapes. A truly remarkable young man.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I think the descriptions of the hiking expectations on the website are accurate, but interpret them literally. A “moderate” hiking level in this part of the world translates closer to “challenging or difficult” per the diluted definitions I’m accustomed to reading in the U.S. Just take the time to condition yourself for consecutive days of hiking up and down steep hillsides so that you can fully appreciate the grandeur surrounding you without distraction. Our group did a very good job of self-selection which enabled all of us to uniformly push ourselves to a healthy limit each day, achieving a feeling of accomplishment which we rewarded with cups of hot chocolate or an icy “alpine” beer at the top of most climbs.

Most Inspirational Moment

The leadership shown by Manni and Leo and the commadiere of our 'team' as we tackled the 'undulations' in 38 degree heat. Leo's regular appearance in the van with water to help us hydrate, not to mention the daily fresh fruit and nuts.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Manni (Emanuele) was excellent. He was very organised, and along with Leo, ensured things ran smoothly. He went the extra mile in noting the birthday of one of our 'team' was during our cycle. He organised a cake in celebration. His recommendations for dinner each night were excellent.

Advice for Potential Travellers

We booked two extra nights in Matera ahead of the commencement of the trip and would recommend this. There is so much to see and enjoy in this very special town.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were several, but the two most outstanding memories were the visits to two islands. Vrångö Island from Gothenburg. (Do take the opportunity to walk around the whole island). And the Fortress Island in Helsinki - Suomenlinna (very interesting history fully explained in the museum). Plus the excellent museums in Oslo (especially the Nobel Peace Centre), in Gothenburg, Stockholm (the ABBA museum is a must, if you are a fan) and Helsinki.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Peter was excellent with extensive knowledge of the history and culture of the region. And his recommendations for restaurants and attractions were excellent.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Just one day in Oslo is not enough, especially as some (but not all) museums are closed on Monday. Either fly out a day early or try to get an early morning flight on the Sunday. Cashless is everywhere and often the only way to pay. You only need cash for the guide. When visiting the Vasa museum I would recommend taking the free guided tour which is very informative. The ferry is more like a cruise ship with a choice of many restaurants. The Kobba restaurant is a very relaxing as the ship glides through the Stockholm Archipelago with a piano playing in the background.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were many inspiring moments, but certainly standing at the edge of the Sahara at sunset sent shivers up my spine1

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader, Abderrahim Toudaoui, made the trip extra special. He had an upbeat, engaging and warm personality. He made sure all went well, which for me included personal safety, since I use a cane. Abder was outstanding. I will always remember him not just as a tour leader, but as a friend.

Advice for Potential Travellers

On this tour, you will soon feel immersed in the culture of Morocco. Morocco is a lively, friendly place that respects and preserves its traditions. I felt welcomed by its people.

Most Inspirational Moment

Being constantly surrounded by the stunning snow capped mountains and glaciers. Favourite hikes include the Italian Val Ferret with legendary hot chocolate, incredible wild flowers and well deserved ice cream at the end. Also the hike to the stunning Lac Blanc from La Flegere, which included a cable car ascent over the valley, and our free day hike from the middle cable car station of Aiguille du Midi, along the valley to the Mer de Glace Glacier with descent by cog railway. Views from the top of Aiguille du Midi were breathtaking, not only because they were beautiful, but also because there were 35kmph winds and sub zero temperatures! Sadly the cloud base was too low and it was too windy for the cable car over the glacier to Italy to run, but that was our only disappointment all week, and the walk made up for it!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Adrian was an extremely good leader. He is incredibly fit, very knowledgeable and a good judge of the group's ability for setting pace without being restrictive. He was very good humoured and helpful, and helped us negotiate the more challenging sections of the walk without any pressure. He kept the group motivated and took an interest in everyone. Couldn't fault him.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It's a week that requires a good level of fitness to get the most out of it. There are a lot of steep climbs over rough terrain, and some more tricky sections which are not suited to people who are scared of heights. Expect to negotiate steps, rocks, ladders, chains, wires, suspension bridges and some steep and narrow sections, but the mountain scenery more than makes up for the effort required. It's a great way to see some of the gorgeous scenery of the Mount Blanc circuit without the need for two weeks of long and strenuous days, there's no roughing it or constant moving from place to place, so you can have plenty of down time to relax and take it all in.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Adrian was incredible. Knowledgeable, communicative and fun-seeking. He looked out for all members of our large (14 person) group and was realistic in his explanations of each day’s adventure.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I highly suggest investing in a water bladder!

Most Inspirational Moment

Many inspiring moments but especially the desert experience and the staying at the village in the High Atlas Mountains which included a 5km hike up to the Riad and then some hikes through other villages.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader was Abderrahim Toudaoui who was excellent throughout. It was obvious that he loved his country and his enthusiasm and knowledge was second to none. He was very attentive to the safety and welfare of the group and was able to combine the serious with much humour.A great asset!

Advice for Potential Travellers

There are some long drives but the variation in the scenery more than made up for the lengths of some of the drives and furthermore, numerous stops were made to break the journeys. Don't expect 5 star luxury but do expect a thoroughly immersive trip in the culture of this fascinating country.

Most Inspirational Moment

Standing in the middle of a sun-drenched vineyard, surrounded by rolling Tuscan hills, sipping wine made just meters away, was truly unforgettable. Listening to the winemaker share their passion, family history, and dedication to tradition reminded me how deeply connected food, land, and culture are in this region. It was a beautiful reminder to slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the simple joys in life.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader’s passion for the region truly came through when she shared her personal connection to Tuscany’s culture and traditions. One of the most inspiring moments was during a visit to a small, family-run winery—she translated, explained, and added context that brought everything to life. Her knowledge and ability to bridge the local experience with our group made the moment feel even more meaningful. It was clear she cared deeply about helping us not just see Tuscany, but truly understand it.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring comfortable walking shoes—you’ll be exploring cobblestone streets and beautiful countryside paths. Be prepared for a leisurely pace when it comes to meals and activities; it's all about savoring the experience. If you have dietary restrictions or medical needs, make sure to communicate them clearly and follow up, even if they’re listed in your booking. Most importantly, come with an open mind, a big appetite, and a readiness to immerse yourself in Tuscany’s rich culture, flavors, and slower way of life. It’s truly a trip to be savored.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Adrian is wonderful, knowledgeable and very friendly.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If expectations are to enjoy the nature, this may not be the trip for you. Steep ups and downs along with challenging terrain makes it difficult to enjoy views. Do this if you want to check this off your list as achievement. Crowds doesn’t help in this context either.