Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Crossing the bridge at the end of el Caminito del Rey (Chorro Gorge) and the Grazalema Natural Park

Thoughts on Group Leader

Whilst Mike was very knowledgeable, engaging and fun, the moment things were not going to plan his attitude changed quite quickly. Some group members picked up on this and it put them off approaching him for anything throughout the trip. Poor time management on one of the walks, led to the group being rushed which wasn't ideal after weeks of torrential rain and very slippery terrain.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Although we had pretty landscapes during the walks (olive groves, mountains) on some occasions it resembled the British countryside, so if you're looking for a trip with stunning scenery at every corner, this isn't it. Optional afternoon in Rhonda was fab, we recommend going! Having done several exodus trips before, whilst there were a couple of level 4 moments, the rest of the walks were more a level 3.

Most Inspirational Moment

Funnily enough, the first days walking in atrocious weather ( I thought we were still in England!) where we nearly made it up the first mountain but had to abort not far from the summit - a very sensible decision from Mike - which we all agreed with.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Superb. Mike/Miguel was a very passionate and committed leader. Always eager to help and make our trip as fab as possible. Extremely knowledgeable on Andalusian wildlife, culture, history and geology.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go on this trip!

Most Inspirational Moment

hiking with the group to the summits

Thoughts on Group Leader

Outstanding!

Most Inspirational Moment

No single one - lots of inspiring scenery

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent - Michael went well beyond what I expected

Advice for Potential Travellers

Walk grading - this grade 2 is nearer a grade 3 than a 1.

Most Inspirational Moment

Tapas lunch on first day!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Miguel was-simply the best.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Book this trip as an early year break.

Most Inspirational Moment

Everybody raves about the Caminito del Rey - it is spectacular, but a bit too processional for my liking - a bit like attending a 'Bob the Builder' sponsored walk (everyone has to wear blue protective hats). For me the best walk was the trip into the Grazalema mountains. Slightly more challenging underfoot maybe, but well worth the effort. Due to the re-arrangement of itinerary caused by the farmers' shenanigans it was the last walk of the holiday, and it was a fitting end to a great week. I just wish the whole group could have witnessed it - by then covid had cruelly split us into positives and negatives!

Thoughts on Group Leader

This is my third walking holiday in Spain, and every leader has been passionate about their neck of the woods. And Michael is no exception. He really tried hard, and succeeded, in overcoming everything that was thrown at us during the week. Algamitas, the neighbouring village, is not a tourist hot spot (thank God), but Michael has built up good relations with the locals. We had coffees in the village cafes at the beginning of two of our walks. His knowledge of the local fauna and flora is impressive, and his enthusiasm for it is infectious. He also gave us top tips of where to visit in Sevilla, and organised a really nice tapas lunch too.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If travelling in the Winter months, make sure that your gear is up to scratch. We had a good downpour on the first day, fortunately after we'd had our tapas lunch, and quite a lot of us had leaky kit by the time we got back to the hotel!

Most Inspirational Moment

Camanito del Rey

Thoughts on Group Leader

Michael was first class but needs to be reminded the group proceeds at the speed of the slowest. Otherwise there will be a fatality sooner or later.

Most Inspirational Moment

Christmas Day walking in the Grazalema mountains with spectacular views and a truly outstanding area with so much ecology to take in. A truly breathtaking Experience shared with the group and leader. Secondly despite the crowds El Chorro gorge was a wonderful experience. Finally, really enjoyed walking from the Cortijo Rosario across all the olive farmland with amazing views and a lovely tapas lunch on one of the days.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Michael, a truly lovely person with so much local knowledge and passion for the surrounding environment. So helpful throughout the entire week and often went above and beyond to ensure we had a good trip and even planned our day off in Saville ensuring we made the most of the time experiencing the best spots to visit in the city with everything from start to finish running like clock work.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Do visit Ronda on the optional afternoon activity to carry out as a very interesting place to visit.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were many highlights but for me it was the variety of the walks as well as the chance to visit Seville.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Michael (Miguel) was excellent. He has a passion for the natural environment and was able to provide lots of knowledge of the flora and fauna of the area.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Although not on the itinerary, the walk on the Thursday of the week finished at lunchtime so for those interested, our guide organised for some of the group to visit Ronda.

Most Inspirational Moment

The National park is so quiet and beautiful and unspoilt. Caminito del Rey is fabulous but much more touristy.

Thoughts on Group Leader

I mentioned Michael and Pat in the summary. Michael has extensive knowledge of flora and fauna, local and Algamitas where he has lived for many years. He inspires interest in the environment. He plans carefully and adapts routines around changes in weather etc. Pat is tireless and supported us all at various times throughout the week. He clearly enjoys the work and the company of other people. His empathy and understanding ensured my husband got the very best from this trip. These leaders are a real asset to Exodus

Advice for Potential Travellers

Read the trip notes carefully. It was unseasonably hot when we were there so make sure you have hats( especially that can be filled with water to douse your head) Room 3 is lovely as there is a balcony. The other rooms have fans but are very hot in hot weather.