Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

For us, although the views of the coast and over to Capri were stunning, the visit to the private nature reserve with its amazing and pristine waterfalls was beautiful. It was absolutely deserted apart from our group and the mosses intermingled with the water have to be seen to be appreciated. A photograph does not do it justice.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our Group leader was Paul McDermott. He was considerate to the needs of the group and was always mindful that people walk at different paces and made sure we had adequate stops - especially as it became quite hot on a couple of days. He was also fun and socialised with us in the evenings, even on his day off! Thanks Paul.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be mindful about when you travel. Although very early May, it became very hot up to 30 degrees and this to some extent made the walking a little more onerous that if it had been cooler. That said we enjoyed all of the walks.

Most Inspirational Moment

probably the food!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Thomas was pretty much perfect. He was very helpful and always conscious of our needs in what turned out to be very hot weather. He was also charming and amusing, which oiled the wheels. A great deal of care and thought went into his restaurant recommendations, which surprised us by how good value they were.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Try and learn at least a little Italian, as English is certainly not that widespread in Sicily.

Most Inspirational Moment

Hard to pick just one. I loved all the spectacular views. Unfortunately we had a couple of days of cloudy weather at the start of the trip but the scenery was fantastic the entire trip. Take your time and take it all in.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Michele is a fantastic guide - friendly, helpful, enthusiastic and deals with any issues without fuss. We came across a couple of unexpected blockages on the trip and Michele was able to quickly find us safe alternative routes and get us back on track within no time. He is very passionate about Italy, in particular Vicenza - the most beautiful city in the world!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Unlike other Exodus cycling trips I've been on the bus doesn't follow the cyclists during the day. We were provided with a waterproof pannier, a water bottle and handlebar bag if wanted. Very useful for carrying everything you need while out on the bikes. We were also given a short guide book and map of the route. There were green arrows on stickers on lampposts throughout the trip ensuring that if you lost sight of the group because you stopped to take photos you were always sure you were still heading in the right direction. Sunglasses and clear glasses are useful for on the bike as even if it's not sunny they keep the dirt and bugs out your eyes. Venice is a wonderful place to get lost in. If you have the time stay a couple of extra days and explore the non-touristy areas.

Most Inspirational Moment

Every day gave something new. The meadows were especially beautiful.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Nelly Radkova was an excellent leader. She was full of enthusiasm and fun. Being Bulgarian her local knowledge was excellent and she was obviously well liked by the local people. She spoke excellent English and was very kind and caring and eager to please at all times. She had a great love for the local environment and its conservation. She made the holiday very enjoyable.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take flip flops for the wet room, and a hair drier if needed. Don't forget your camera and binoculars. The weather can be changeable so waterproofs and an umbrella are advised.

Most Inspirational Moment

The morning spent hiking up gorge of the Chairska River which is a spectacular route. The final half-day walk on the "Eco-trail" (before the transfer back to Sofia) is also excellent. Take a detour up to the waterfall, it's worth it!

Thoughts on Group Leader

A leader was Nelly, a local of the area. She had an excellent knowledge of the area including the flora and fauna. She's really easy going and everyone enjoyed walking with her. I particularly like being allowed to walk at my own pace and 're-grouping' at specific points.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The transfer from Sofia is five hours (including a half-hour beer stop). It's quite a slog but well worth it. Take flip-flops as the hotel has 'wet rooms' rather than separate shower + toilet. Also take a sink plug if you want to do any washing.

Most Inspirational Moment

Oh, so many! I leaned against a cool cave wall listening to our Navaho Indian guide drumming and singing. I did a day walk in the desert heat of Canyonlands National Park, and marvelled at the beauty of the immense natural rock garden.....sand, red rocks, flowering cacti, shrubs and architectural dried twisted tree trunks,.. Far better than any man made garden. I waded 7 miles through the Virgin River in the Narrows at Zion National Park, with the canyon walls soaring high above. I watched sunrise and sunsets paint fabulous colours on the Grand Canyon, Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, the red spires of Monument Valley and the pink and orange Hoodoos of Bryce Canyon. ..........Every day was a highlight! And we ate our lunches and 2 dinners in spectacular surroundings.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Evan and Brendon were fantastic leaders, and worked hard to make sure we got the most from our holiday. They were extremely knowledgable, good drivers, well organised, communicated clearly, and looked after us really well. On tricky scrambling or precarious parts of the walks, they gave confidence, and respected our limitations. They were fun and friendly.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take clothes for all seasons ! We had snow, hail, rain, wind, as well as a lot of sun and heat.

Most Inspirational Moment

The challenging uphills were made worthwhile upon reaching the summit of the small mountains (1.500 m)...and then of course the smooth downhill cruise after.

Thoughts on Group Leader

fantastic

Most Inspirational Moment

I was very pleased to make the steepest ascent and descent of 460 metres on tricky mountain Paths.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Stephanie was always cheerful and professional. I always felt confident as she guided us along many different paths and taught us how to negotiate some difficult terrain. The whole holiday was well organised, including evening dinners . A definite plus for solo travellers.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don't hesitate to step outside your comfort zone and challenge yourself, at any age. Our ages ranges from mid 40's to late 60's . Despite a few aches and pains we all coped well. It is wise to train before hand, including walking up and down steps!

Most Inspirational Moment

n/a - can't imagine what you want to know with this question....did I have a vision!?

Thoughts on Group Leader

Lovely tour leader with a great, dry sense of humour. Then again, I'm half Bavarian so I would say that! He was very keen to please his very big group of 16 and I believe everyone really liked Thomas.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure you're fit for this one! There are long stretches with no breaks as people seem to race along. I took my time and stopped for photos and drinks but it meant I was constantly at the back. Take your own gel saddle and think about protection for your poor behind.

Most Inspirational Moment

Reaching the top of Burdah Bridge. There are scenic views throughout and it was the first time I've climbed a rock bridge. The support from the local Bedouin people whilst climbing was excellent.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Zuhair was a very experienced and enthusiastic tour leader. I felt that he went above and beyond to make the trip memorable for us and the pacing of the walks on each day was well set.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring a head torch whilst wild camping as it is easier to eat dinner in the desert without holding a torch. Have small denominations in Jordanian dinar on the trip where possible