Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

It is difficult to single out any particular hike as each day was different and had spectacular views of the alpine scenery. However, the impromtu shoe shoeing on day 2 up to the Col de Balme was great fun which was added to the slightly altered itinery as some of the passes were still off limits due to too much snow/risk of averlances.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Simon made everyones holiday fun, and his sense of humour clearly stood out. He is a very competent montain leader with an approachable manner. However, the hosts of Chalet Chocolat John and Jayne also deserve a special mentioning as they made everyone feel at home and the food was really fantastic.  No special requests were too much,  not even stodgy porridge for breakfast as aked for by a certain Scotsman.

Most Inspirational Moment

Encircled by mountains and blue sky.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Simon did an excellent job finding alternative routes as our end of May departure (first of season) was thwarted by too much snow on the routes meaning we were unable to do much of the stated itinerary.  But its a credit to Simon that we still managed to get out every day, enjoy challenging walks, beautiful views and overally a great experience of the Mont Blanc region.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The trip notes are spot on - you need to take the full range of gear and you will wear it (especially for the first departure) - waterproofs, gloves, woolly hats, sun hats & sunglasses all in one day!

Most Inspirational Moment

The Guide and his many stories about the areas we visited.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The Guide was fab and his many stories about the areas we visited fasinating although some of his jokes were a wee bit tired.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure you are a fit walker, then you will get the most from this trip.Have some change on you, the tarts at the mountain huts are worth it.And bring your camera.

Most Inspirational Moment

just finishing the walks each day!  particularly the last day, the view of mont blanc was amazing.

Thoughts on Group Leader

oliver was hilarious, full of jokes, an excellent leader, he made our holiday.  perhaps the true leader was his dog dylan who seemed to keep his eye on us all during the walks and keep us altogether!  oliver and his wife elaine made us feel so welcome in their chalet, really lovely cosy atmosphere, and did their utmost to give us the most enjoyable holiday they could. 

Advice for Potential Travellers

i would recommend this holiday to anyone, in all respects.

Most Inspirational Moment

Coming from Australia, where there are hardly any mountains, this environment took my breath away. The mountain landscape with snow and glaziers are views that I will remember forever.

Thoughts on Group Leader

An excellent guy and an amazing guide.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Arrive a little earlier and take some of the higher cable cars up to some the peaks we don't walk to.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing teh 360 degree view on Friday and being able to have lunch at such a magnificient spot.

Thoughts on Group Leader

I think Oliver is a very experienced leader, with a day he could assess everyone's capabilities within the group. He could accurately predict times, which I found a great help.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for good walking over the number of hours stated in the brochure. If you enjoy walking and are reasonably fit, all you need to do is pray for good weather and then just enjoy!

Most Inspirational Moment

The last walk, the descent to La Flatiere was by a route where we walked down a narrow ridge with drops on either side.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Oliver was great, excellent sense of humour and was very helpful on the treks, while transporting us and at the chalet. 

Most Inspirational Moment

The walk in italy was great. Unspoilt scenery, and great views all day. I loved visiting anancy on our non walking day, it's a beautiful city with lots to do. Also thoroughly enjoyed the day a few of the group were not permitted to walk as our wet weather gear was not considered adequate by the leader, had a relaxing day enjoying Chaminox

Thoughts on Group Leader

Very knowledgeable of the area, with a witty joke for every situation. I appreciated his concern for health and safety, but at times this made the situation a bit restrictive.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Expect to walk extremely slowly! Pack everything on the list as nothing is optional. If your large (e.g tall or fat) you may get stuck in the shower or toilet as the ensuite facilities in some of the rooms are tiny.

Most Inspirational Moment

The 360 degree view at the summit of the last day's climb. The photographs cannot truly capture the beauty of the surroundings and the sense of achievement.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Oliver, compared by Swiss Guards on a previous trip, to Prince Charles!!!! is an excellent group leader who sets a perfect pace for the climbs and is always aware of the group's abilities. His jokes are ideal for Christmas crackers as they always made us groan.....every time. Dylan the fox terrier was great company on the walks and really missed on the days he had to have a rest day.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure your camera is fully charged as round every corner there are photo opportunities....and lots of "wows". Remember that the chalet is a homely environment and cosy rather than expecting hotel accommodation.

Most Inspirational Moment

Standing at the highest point of the walk each day and knowing that I had made it! All the different views of Mont Blanc, which is inspirational from any angle.

Thoughts on Group Leader

It is hard to think of anything to say about Oliver that has not already been said by previous reviewers. He is a genuinely lovely man who goes out of his way to make sure that everyone has a great time. His ability to vary his pace to meet the needs of the group, his endless stream of "jokes", knowledge of the mountains (and wild flowers) and where to get the best tarts is immense. Although we all know that Dylan is really in charge! 

Advice for Potential Travellers

Just do it - you'll have a great time. Annecy is well worth a visit on your free day.