Self Guided Holidays in Spain

We took this trip in early September, the weather turned out to be very hot (mostly 30-32 degrees) but the walks were still fine for most of the group and were really well selected with varied and interesting walking every day. I would say, though, that a fair rating would be ‘moderate to hard’ as each walk had some challenging sections, especially in the heat. The scenery of the Alpujarra is glorious, different to any other mountains we have walked in and very beautiful. Our guide Dan was also excellent, really well informed, dryly funny and considerate to all members of the group. Finally a word for the hotel in Berchules – it was absolutely fabulous! Csilla is a wonderful hostess, so friendly and welcoming and Alejandro is a terrific chef, evening meals were a delight and the breakfasts and packed lunches were very generous. The setting of the hotel, at the head of the Berchules valley, is glorious – one of my favourite memories of the trip was just sitting on the terrace before breakfasts and suppers, chatting over drinks with our walking buddies. I thoroughly recommend this trip.

Louis Victor Sierra Nevada & Granada

A wonderful week’s walking in beautiful surroundings and great company with the outstanding Jose as our guide. The weather was perfect and the accommodation clean, homely and comfortable. Raquel provided delicious three course dinners most evenings, with Jose cooking us a huge paella one evening. He also made us the most amazing sandwiches to take for lunch. Jose grew up in this area and conveyed his love for it, whilst providing so many interesting facts about the countryside we were passing through. I can’t recommend this trip highly enough- one of the best I have ever done with Exodus.

Clare Williams Sierra de Aitana Trek

This is a wonderful trek through the Sierra de Aitana, led by the amazing Jose who is so knowledgeable about the local area. Using Rincon de Pepe as a base, and hosted by the wonderful Raquel, this week encompasses five tough, but very enjoyable, walks in the area. They range from walking from the base, through to starting in different places after a short drive. Each day starts with a lovely buffet breakfast – we were fortunate, in November, to be able to eat on a sun-drenched terrace each day. Jose, enthusiastic and passionate, leads the walks in an area he knows very well. Perfect packed lunches are provided and Jose’s sandwiches are second to none: varied, tasty and with plentiful contents! Post-walk, there is usually a chance to grab a drink in a local bar, or head back to Raquel’s – and her gin and tonics are definitely worth a try. Before dinner, which is always extremely tasty with good local wines included, Jose briefs the group on the next day’s walk – and this is a great way of getting prepared for what lies ahead. I sincerely recommend the Sierra de Aitana trek. The rest day is perfect (after three day walks) and allows a trip to a nearby coastal town – for more walking, if you wish, or some superb fish. You may even choose to visit the chocolate factory (my partner and I didn’t, but wish we had!) This trip is great if you want to explore a beautiful area, with varied walks and a wonderful host.

Matthew Tett Sierra de Aitana Trek