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A great varied itenary taking in the best bits of the Amalfi coast. Plenty of challenge but very ‘doable’
Walking to the top of the first walk and getting some breath taking views below. Walking to the top of Mount Vesuvius and seeing all the country spread out below.
Christine was very motivating and encouraged all to do as much as possible. It meant that it was a success for all.
You need a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy the challenge. Particularly doing the 2000 plus steps down to Amalfi.
When we told our friends and relatives we were going to Jordan there were generally the sort of intakes of breath you hear from a car mechanic who is about to tell you you need a new engine. ‘Isn’t that a bit risky?’ etc etc etc plus dodgy jokes about being chained to radiators and youtube executions. Well, if you’re thinking about this trip then the first thing to do is scratch those worries from your mind. Jordan feels safe and stable. Everyone we met was fiercely proud of its independent moderate stance amidst the political and internecine chaos and strife that surrounds it. The population is literate, charming, welcoming and wryly humorous. Walking the streets of Amman is largely a hassle free experience – in comparison, say, with the in-your-face onslaught of somewhere like Marrakech. But right now the Jordanian tourist industry is suffering with people scared to go to the region, so Jordan desperately needs visitors – and all the more reason to go. Support their economy and get to see amazing sights which are hardly crowded at all.
So, this trip. We’ve done five Exodus tours, and enjoyed all of them in different ways, but this is right up there with the very best. It’s a tightly packed itinerary – at the golden centre of which is two and a half days in and around Petra. A lot of tours settle for a day or even just a few hours, but after the first gobsmacking day exploring the main Petra site itself, Exodus offer a day’s hike around the High places surrounding the Petra gorge. This is a very special experience indeed – we saw only two other tourists during the whole high places hike! Although I’d read that Petra was spectacular, and I’m a bit of an old cynic, the place far exceeded expectations. No one can be disappointed by experiencing this extraordinary place.
But there’s more to Jordan than Petra – it’s a week crammed with breathtaking landscapes, a rich and varied archaeological history, and accessible cuisine, and a night in a spectacular desert. Oh yes, and there’s snorkelling in the Red Sea, and floating in the Dead Sea too.
I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this holiday to anyone.
Petra is the centrepiece of the trip, of course, but when a group of us hired a Bedouin driver to take us deep in to Wadi Rum to spend an hour lying on the sand staring up at a glittering Milky Way in the deafening silence of the Desert night, that felt pretty unique.
Zuhair is a true character. You couldn't hope for a harder working group leader. He's knowledgeable - and full of amazing stories (a lot of which end in death and disaster) - and dryly funny too.
Soooo... having waxed lyrical about Petra, and the hike around the high places, I think it's worth warning anyone with mobility issues that these two days are quite demanding. A couple of people in our group battled with sheer amount of walking in heat on these days, plus the number of steps and slightly rocky ascents and descents. If you struggle with your knees, then you might find some of this stuff a challenge. But, please, Exodus, don't ever cut this bit out of the tour - it's definitely part of what makes this week so special. If you're reasonably fit, you'll be fine! My other caveat is that one of the optional extras suggested by the trip notes is to see Petra By Night. This, for my wife and I, was the only real disappointment. It should be a very atmospheric experience - with the Siq and Grand Treasury lit by thousands of candles, but any whiff of atmosphere was destroyed by the number of people who - having forked out for a candle lit experience - brought their bright LED torches, and thought it would be cool to fire off their flash guns every ten seconds. Seriously, unless it's a very quiet time of year, I'd honestly recommend skipping this quite pricy add-on. Having got stung with this optional extra, we were a bit wary about forking out on a snorkelling boat trip on the Red Sea, recommended to us by Zuhair.... but we're so glad we did, because under Captain Muhammed Leddawi the whole group had an absolutely magical day on the coast around Aqaba. Snorkelling newbies were tutored patiently and safely so they could get a look at the rainbow fish nibbling on the reef below, and the crew knocked up a delicious barbecue on the boat - one of the best meal we ate on the whole trip. And price was far less than had we stayed on shore, paying for access to a private beach and paying resort prices for food in a restaurant. Lastly, don't expect fantastic Hotel accommodation. The hotels are absolutely fine, but they're nothing special. However this really doesn't matter, because the week is so full of activity, you barely spend any time in them anyway.
A great week of walking in the Dolomites. This is a place of stunning jagged mountain peaks and beautiful villages below.
Stopping at some of the highest points on our walks and taking in the scenery.
We had two leaders, Albert Callewaert and Eric Woolley. Both were highly competent leaders. They worked well together and organised some great walks for us. Due to inclement weather conditions during our week (19th Sept), several times they had to change planned parts of walks due to rain causing landslides or high winds. This was not a problem and good, safe walks were enjoyed. They were very helpful in making suggestions and giving information for activities on our free day and also organised a local wine and cheese tasting for the evening and a meal in a local restaurant.
We stopped for coffee and lunch at mountain rifugios on most days, so there was no need for the larger of the two water containers I had taken. It was also good to use the facilities. Tap water in Italy is good, which saved money (I find the tap water in England does not taste good). The hotel was well equipped, so I did not need to use the hair dryer I had taken (double room).
My partner and I have been on several group walking and cycling holidays but this was the most enjoyable to date, in large part due to our excellent tour leader, Michele, but also due to the group itself. Michele has excellent local knowledge ranging across the history, architecture and culture of the areas and towns we visited as well as where to eat really good lunches and dinners. We all much appreciated the frequent opportunities to indulge in ice-cream.
As first time visitors to Venice we much appreciated Michele's tour of the City. In a relatively few hours we gained a really good overview of the main sights. The Grand Canal by night was very special. Arriving high above Lake Garda and cycling down the steep hill to the lakeside was another special experience.
Michele was an exceptionally good tour leader for all the reasons already mentioned. He emphasised how important it was for each of us to really enjoy the holiday and he was enthusiastic and careful in making sure that we did. The group also gelled very well, no doubt helped by Michele's professional but friendly approach to leading us.
Throw yourself into the good food, wine and gelato experience! We enjoyed some really good local dishes and wines recommended by Michele. Also, think about adding a few days in Venice onto the trip. We were travelling as a couple and arranged to stay on in a central hotel ( which we booked ourselves ). We enjoyed the change of pace as a relaxing finale to an active holiday. Other group members added time in Venice or trekking in the Dolomites at the beginning of the trip. We also took the train from Verona to Vicenza midweek, rather than cycle, because we wanted a whole day there to explore the amazing Palladian architecture. Remember this is your holiday! Michele was very happy to help us to arrange this small departure from the cycling itinerary. On a practical level, the bikes are equipped with bar bags, waterproof panniers and waterbottles ( there are lots of opportunities to top up ).The bike seats were comfy ( no one complained! ).
This trip is great for those that want to see a large area of Albania, but with the benefit of the pace of a bicycle. We thoroughly enjoyed it. There was a huge variety of landscapes from remote rural backwaters in the mountains, historical cities and ruins to the beautiful coast with it’s clear water and white sands. The group were great too, No moaning at all despite getting wet in the rain and not having much electricity in one hotel.
Getting to the top of the mountain on the last day. Although the guide says it, it is worth saving legs for that last climb as it is a real sense of achievement not to mention the views on the way up and at the top.
He was very professional and paid attention to numerous details eg providing profiles for people due to previous requests. He had strong views about things, but is clearly committed to providing context and understanding of his country.
Take a waterproof! Also we did not get a meal when we arrived (albeit late), so take some snacks for the bus trip.
I am an experienced Exodus traveller, and this was my 16th trip. The invitation to review was addressed to my husband Robin (Robert), and I am completing the Review as Amanda Hubbard as I just wanted to say that this trip was one of the best. The cycling was indeed moderate and there was always space in the van to sit out a hill.There were plenty of opportunities to visit such ancient towns as Split, Havar and Korcula and to sightsee and swim in the clear sea. There were coffee breaks and the food was excellent with great lunch stops and dinners at well chosen restaurants at night. Plus our guide, Marko Mitic, was top-rate – as were Michele on our Sardinian bike trip and Radu in Tuscany. So if you want to cycle and really see the Dalmatian Coast, book this holiday.
But do pay attention to the warnings about Croatian hotels in the Trip Notes. They are a little better than Cuban hotels but comparable. Our rooms at the hotel at Jelsa (where we arrived tired from our journey at about 11pm on our first day) were very inconvenient to access and others in our group remarked on the septic tank smell!!! But the beds were comfortable and the view and swimming incomparable. The second hotel at Lumbarda was comfortable and fun and the Dubrovnik hotel was in a restful location.
Every day was inspirational - I didn't want the holiday to end. 1.When we arrived we drove to Split, walked round the port and the UNESCO Diocletian Palace, where we had dinner and then boarded the ferry (the terrific thunder storm at sea was great fun). This was a taste of the "delights" to follow! 2.The beauty of the rugged and rocky Dalmatian coasts and the charming little villages nestled along the coastlines. We were island hopping taking numerous ferries and our excellent driver got us everywhere on time. Particularly enjoyed the cycle rides (often through vineyards - there was even a tunnel!) around the islands of Hvar, Korcula, and Mljet, although a couple of gravel roads were a challenge for me - but one can get off the bike. 3. The architecture, charm and beauty of the Stari Grads of Hvar, Korcula and Dubrovnik and the history. Loved the walk round Dubrovnik town walls and the views of the now repaired rooftops and the sea - best done early in the morning. The bus trips into town were fun and even getting lost! 4. The fresh food and restaurants, especially the Konoba Mate at Pupnat, the organic lunch stop on the second day at the top of a hill overlooking the island of Brac and the restaurant down a backstreet in Dubrovnik, where we had our farewell dinner. And the Posip white wine of Korcula is DELICIOUS. Drinking this was perhaps my most inspirational moment(s) of the trip!!!
Charming, courteous and considerate of the group's needs. And very well organised and social. He supported and helped all 13 of us equally and accompanied us to the Airport at the end of the trip. I had 2 flat tires (back and front) and he changed each one efficiently. The second flat tire he noticed at an intersection, where he was waiting to make sure we took the correct turn, on a very steep road down to the sea - I was lucky! All 13 of us got on very well - which seems to happen on cycling tips and we had some good laughs. It was great that we had 2 Americans and 1 Canadian on the trip. And one of the most amusing moments, was when we were cycling back along the coast to Lumbarda on Korcula and we were overtaken by a group of very fast cyclists - they were on electric bikes! I couldn't understand why I was so slow until I realised.
This trip might not be suitable for avid cyclists. Even I, as an older, slightly anxious cyclist found the cycling rather too easy. We were always warned about the hills, but they were nothing compared with Sardinia and Tuscany, also classed as moderate holidays. Marko did allow one of our group to cycle independently at times, but he was the fastest and the only one who wanted to. Our optional day on the island of Mijet was fun, but the hordes of tourists made this my least favourite day. My guide book (NOT trip notes) said there were no cars, but there were lots. And it was not as relaxing as Hvar and Korcula. The swim was great though and my advice is to bring sandals or shoes to swim in as there are lots of sea urchins everywhere along the rocky coast and few sandy beaches. And if you are over 70 the Park entrance fee is less! Just enjoy the fabulous views, coastline, ancient towns and particularly the Posip wine! Travelling by bike is a great way to see Croatia.
Whilst this trip was our first Exodus experience we were unsure of what to expect in terms of cycling difficulty, organisation, hotels and group dynamics. We need not have worried!! This guided trip was maybe very slightly more challenging than we expected due to hotter weather than normal in September, however the leadership dealt with these conditions well allowing the whole group to complete a rewarding week. The over night stays allowed us to experience a range of accommodation including a night in a Trulli house and all were clean and tidy. For us, one of the highlights was the group we met and spent time with. We got to know some great people along the way – chatting on route and over evening meals (although this is not compulsory!)
Having experienced some fantastic places along the route, for us the finale in Lecce with a group of people we'd got to know was very special and a stunning end to a great week.
We were fortunate enough to have two leaders and both did all they could to make the trip a special week. They had the local knowledge, great organisational skills and above all a great sense of humour!
If we were to help inform anyone considering this trip, we'd definately recommend this for anyone wanting to see southern Italy and who has done some cycling leading up to the week. We decided to add an extra day at the start in Matera and at the end in Lecce which we'd reccommend to discover these beautiful places. The bikes were good however we decided to take our own saddle and pedals which we'd suggest if you want a little more "touch point" familiarity.
A week of trekking in the Chamonix valley and various parts of the Mont Blanc circuit, with time to relax and unwind in a comfortable chalet in Chamonix.
The stunning views of the glacier and snow capped summit of Mont Blanc from most parts of the trekking routes but also from the chalet (whilst relaxing in the hot tub)!
Group leader was knowledgeable, friendly and easy going
Every day's walk starts from one valley or another which requires a steep uphill walk, this obviously means that a steep descent is required at the end of the day. Walking poles and good footwear are really a necessity
Firstly ignore friends and people who say don’t go Jordan due to problems in neighbouring countries, this is a safe and friendly country with more secure borders than our own (UK). Petra is an amazing place and not just the Treasury – this is a massive site and Exodus are the only company giving you 2 full days here – not 3 measly hours which frankly you would miss most of the site in. Wadi Rum and the desert is a surreal place and most relaxing – there are lots of added extra’s and overall a trip in a week that covers the best Jordan has to offer plus a few extras.
The whole time at Petra but yes it has to be seeing the Treasury upon fully exiting the Siq - awesome sight and something to behold in both design and natural surroundings. Though it must be said Wadi Rum on the jeep drive has an amazing landscape and must be held with as much regard for me. Floating in the Dead Sea is a really good experience albeit very strange most relaxing and moisturising for your skin all at once.
Zuhair was very organised, and extremely knowledgeable about his country and it's past and present and the Geography of it's areas. He also was friendly with the group and became part of the group as opposed to ordering the group for this and that which is always a bonus - overall a good Group Leader that earns respect of his group.
Food in Jordan is not cheap, ensure when you eat out that you either have Mezze or a main - both in general are not needed as way too much food. If you like Lamb try the Mansaf - just do it you won't regret it. Do the Camel ride to sunset - very enjoyable indeed and if you have the legs for it do all walks offered around Petra by your Leader - as there are lots of out the way hidden extras there.
I travelled with a friend of mine. Really enjoyed this week. It took a day or two to acclimatise to the heat during the walks but then it was fine. Loved the kayaking option. So good we opted to do that again on our free day. Kas town is lovely, with lots of good restaurants and shops. The food was really good throughout the week. Healthy and tasty. Our guide, Maho, was a complete pro. Our group was lovely, everyone got on well. A good mixture of activity and some free time. After some of the walks, we got back to the hotel between 3 and 4 pm so had time to go and do other things or go for a swim in the pool. Oreo Hotel was a very pleasant place to stay and the staff looked after us well.
Looking out over the gorgeous coastline and clear water when kayaking and (while on one of the walks) seeing parts of a Roman aquaduct which is still working in some respects, all these years later.
Maho is wonderful. Professional, concientious, very experienced. You feel like you're in very capable hands. He booked restaurants and went out with us during the evenings as well as during the day, to make sure the entire experience was a really good one for us. Jan Jan was also with us during the kayaking and I found him to be very pleasant and helpful also. Both were at your side very quickly if they felt you needed assistance.
Water shoes are handy for the kayaking. It was late 20s - 30 centigrade in mid Sept and I should have brought a little more clothing to suit those kinds of temperatures. It took a day or two to get used to the heat when walking. I found a hat essential, plus I used a platypus waterbag for my backpack as I drank more water on this trip than I ever did before. Saves you having to dig a bottle out of your back pack all the time. Walking poles would be helpful on some of the ascents and descents. Not needed for all of the walks though. The longest walk (13km) along the aquaduct was the toughest one (for me), primarily due to the uphill parts, over rocks and quite steeply up a forest path for a time. Everyone else (a wide mixture of ages) managed fine and kindly waited for me. There are a lot of prickly shrubs on that walk, so some people may wish to bring lightweight trousers. A lot of it is picking your way along narrow paths, over rocks and alongside streams, so you do have to pick your steps carefully. There are some parts (very few) where people with a fear of heights may be a little nervous, but our group was fine, regardless. The rest of the walks were all easier. On the kayaking day, we paddled over to a really lovely spot for lunch. There were turtles swimming in the bay which was a bonus. Just be careful getting to and from your kayak over those rocks at the edge of the water. It's very shallow and there's a moss on the rocks which makes it very very slippy. Our guides helped us which was great, but worth bearing in mind. Mossie spray is useful (you can buy it in Kas though). Some of our group got bitten but many didn't.