Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

There were too many great moments to single one out. While the major cities more than lived up to their reputations, the wonder of the smaller places we had not heard of was a most welcome surprise - especially the absence of tourists there.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Extremely caring but not the right leader for our cycle trip. He was unfamiliar with the route and his cycling skills were not great. For example, he would often stop without leaving sufficient space for all others to stop safely.

Advice for Potential Travellers

learn the rules of group riding before the trip and obey same.

Most Inspirational Moment

Although I'd have to say Machu Picchu was the crown jewel, seeing the beautiful stars at night, fabulous sunsets, and visiting Incan burial sites were all awe-inspiring!

Thoughts on Group Leader

For the trek we had Tina, who was great fun and took superb care of us. It was as if we took another friend along! We were able to hike at our own pace and felt very well looked after. During our time in the city, and with the entire group, Fabrizzio was just as good! He was very knowledgeable about Incan history and culture, and had obvious pride in his country and heritage, as did Tina.

Advice for Potential Travellers

This is some tough hiking! I'd advise going a few days ahead to Cusco for extra acclimatization. (And drink the coca tea ALL the time!)Being aerobically fit does not necessarily help overcome the altitude issues. Bring a pole or poles! (Even my 22 y-o daughter found a pole useful to steady her footing.) Nights at altitude are VERY cold (near freezing)l although daytime temps are mild. LAYERS! The sun is fierce! Have a good sun hat plus sunscreen.

Most Inspirational Moment

Surviving the Amalfi coast on a bicycle.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Alessandro was superb. He is organized, informative, helpful. He is also a very strong cyclist and kept constant watch over everyone's safety and abilities. I would do another tour with him in a heartbeat.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Prepare to eat yourself silly and go through pasta withdrawal when you come home. If you think you might be too challenged by the climbs, feel that it is okay to hire an ebike.

Most Inspirational Moment

I loved swimming in the sea, which we had opportunities for most days.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Michele and Giovanni were excellent leaders. They both worked hard. They were supportive and caring. Both speak good English, are very knowledgeable and experienced.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take padded cycle shorts and suncream.

Most Inspirational Moment

The first walk with the "fairy towers" landscope was a revelation. The balloon ride was breathtaking and well worth two false starts.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Firat Solak was excellent. He was both informative and humourous. His pace on the walks was just right for the various members. His checks on the state of the members showed a good understanding of what was going on during the day. The places we ate during the day and evening was a hit with everyone.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go as soon as possible.

Most Inspirational Moment

Screaming downhills

Advice for Potential Travellers

They were great! Very knowledgeable.

Most Inspirational Moment

There was no single "ahh" moment - there were many, with each turn in the cycling path or new vista in sight.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Peter not only led the ride and walks, but provided constant narration about what we were looking at. Always ready to answer questions and always working to make our program great. His enthusiasm, if not patience, shone through and was contagious

Advice for Potential Travellers

Aside from being in good riding shape, open your mind to the places and people with whom you are traveling.

Most Inspirational Moment

Petra of course! We spent nine hours at the site on the first day; the (2 hour) climb to the Monastery is not to be missed, returning in the evening for a candle-lit walk to the Treasury. On the second day took the longer, but more interesting and rarely visited trail to the High Place of Sacrifice NB: strongly advised take this 3 hour trail in reverse, as recommended by our guide.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Extremely knowledgeable, especially ancient history and more recent regional politics. Lots of helpful advice at sites to ensure we not only didn't miss the 'must see' but also interesting out of the way places.

Advice for Potential Travellers

You need plenty of spending money. Lunches and dinners usually DR10-15 each, which soon adds up. There are cheaper options in towns, except Petra, but not when you are in the middle of nowhere. And if you are desperate for a cold beer after a hot and dusty day, expect to pay DR7-9 for a pint of lager. NB: food and drink usually plus 7% tax & 10% service

Most Inspirational Moment

Gorroppu Gorge is an amazing site to see, so do go into the gorge once you reach it, The walk up to and in Tiscali, with added bonus of seeing a pine martin there.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Eric was a great guide, well organised, and has good relationships with the hotel staff and locals. Eric is very informative and provides accurate descriptions of the walks for the next day so you know what you are in for, He engages well with group. On the walks Eric keeps a steady pace with reasonable rest stops.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Whilst this is a medium grade walking trip, I would say its not overly strenuous and the paths are mostly good. The Tiscali walk and the coastal walk needs concentration in some parts as to where you are putting your feet do to the rocky nature of the paths, On the free day we went to Bue Marino cave. I've been to quite a few cave systems before and was a little disappointed. Not that long, colourful, or dramatic in stalactites. Its main attraction is the water entering from the sea and river. I'd recommend the Liquorice and Whiskey ice cream at the La Gelateria in Dorgali.

Most Inspirational Moment

I think the whole trip was great and so very difficult to pick out spercific moments just the amazing views of the mountains and coastline.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader was Andre who was fantastic. He was always smiling and his love of his island and knowledge of the flowers, mountains and history was very infectious. Andre made sure we were all safe and enjoying the walks from the fast walkers to the slow and always stopped at the end for a welcoming cold beer! He even gave up his day off on our free day to show us around Funchal

Advice for Potential Travellers

I was a bit older than the rest of the group, being 73 and did find the very rocky descents a bit difficult at times but if I can manage it anyone can