Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

The optional extra, el Caminito del Rey, was thrilling! The photos look incredibly frightening, but the whole route has been renovated and made completely safe. There is a plank pathway all the way and some steep steps with quite narrow treads, But there are places where you can sit and rest and admire the magnificent scenery. Vertigo sufferers would be advised to go with a friend as the depth of the gorge may feel overwhelming.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The lovely Alejandro was everyone's sweetheart! We were a small group of seven walkers and he instantly made friends with everyone and had a clever sense of humour. He was highly knowledgeable and took notice of each of our ability and set the pace accordingly. Very soon we developed into a close friendly group where we all cared for each other. Some were faster and fitter than others, but the schedule allowed for those variances. What especially impressed me was that when anyone asked a question, Alejandro would say, I'll show you or I'll tell you when we get to such and such point. And he always remembered to do it, without a fail.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Unless you are an experienced walker, do please take seriously the programme to build up your stamina and fitness in advance of the holiday. Walking on city streets or level ground is not enough preparation. You should find steep hilly grounds and stretch and strengthen every possible leg muscle you can think of. This will make your experience so much more enjoyable. Also, on this particular holiday, whilst the accommodation is lovely and homely and comes with spectacular views - and with delicious meals - it isn't luxury, so go with an open mind and be prepared to compromise.

Most Inspirational Moment

I wouldn't call Toubkal a particularly impressive mountain from a distance and you only really get the views across the Atlas range when close to the top, but when you are close to the summit, the views open out before you and you will have some great views across the Atlas range. However, the only answer to the question has to be finally making it to the top, which of course was why we were there.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Hameed was our guide - very experienced, he had climbed Toubkal over a hundred times I think he said. He was partaking in Ramadan, i.e. no food or drink from about 3 am until 8pm, which, if true, was a staggering achievement as we were drinking half a dozen litres of water during this time. We were a small group of 6 and there were no issues across the weekend. He was also very happy to take us out to restaurants that sold beer on the final night of the tour in Marrakech, even though he didn't eat or drink himself. A solid performance.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I've mentioned a few things in the summary, but Toubkal, although a stiff climb on the summit day, is very accessible, however, I have to be honest and say it's not the most attractive of mountains for views - it's quite rocky and the first day you are walking through a valley. In June, however, it's hot and sweaty on the first day, and pleasant on the summit day. If you are genuinely looking to tick off a mountain in a weekend, then this would seem to be ideal.

Most Inspirational Moment

Many, including cycling through the mountains, alongside the Adage River; getting to know everyone else during the Lake Garda boat trip; making it to the top of the big hill and generally the beauty of our surroundings.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Michele was superb in every way – in fact we could not fault him. In many ways, he made the trip; with his enthusiasm, encouragement, sense of humour and passion for both cycling and that part of Italy. We learned very quickly that Vincenza is the most beautiful city in the world (or at least not to argue with that fact!) On a serious note though, it was clear from day one that our safety was his priority at all times and his skills at leading fifteen of us through the city centres in the early morning rush hour was impressive. Lastly, on a personal note, he was great fun to be with, as was his lovely wife Marta and their two children. Cin Cin!

Most Inspirational Moment

We visited Mijet and I loved it. The island was amazing and did some great swimming in the sea

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ana went over and above to meet all of the groups needs which were varied.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take padded shorts and a lot of change of clothes

Most Inspirational Moment

The Holocoust Museum in Lithuania, just outside Vilnius was absolutely humbling and eye-opening. This history was not something I was aware of and the museum was extensive about the history of the Lithuanian Jewish people's treatment at the hands of the Nazis, as well as the Lithuanian people's struggles and persecution during the Soviet occupation.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Lukas was great. He was so knowledgable about the Region and shared it enthusiastically. He made sure everything went smoothly and that everyone arrived at their destination.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure you bring bug spray for the first days of cycling in the National park in Estonia. Also, make sure you have rain gear.

Most Inspirational Moment

Was it the mushroom tagliatelle at the Hotel Soligo or was is it the porchetta starter at the Osteria Stella in Conegliano? The food throughout the week was a delight. The walks were varied and enjoyed by the group of mixed age and experience.

Thoughts on Group Leader

We were pleased to have an Italian ( Sicilian/Greek) group leader because of his insight into the richness of the nation's culture. Severio has a relaxed and engaging manner that was much appreciated. When faced with incidents he dealt with them sympathetically and expeditiously.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Leave plenty of space in your luggage for Prosecco! The quality, variety and prices make it a must. Conegliano is well worth a visit on the free day - the 4k town trail was real find.

Most Inspirational Moment

Achieving the Crypt Lake walk (not on the itinerary, but offered as a choice instead of Lineham). We were limited in time as only one boat each way across the Lake and the walk included exciting time climbing iron ladder, going through tunnel and precarious ledge walk! Very pleased to have done it - and bought the T-shirt!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Superb - Mac was a great cook, and full of knowledge about the history, geology and fauna of the area. Not so hot on plants, but we had plenty of reference material to check up with. Also Mac introduced us to CBC Radio programme The Debaters which was excellent for passing the time on some of the longer journeys between camp sites. As a leader, he was very capable and hard working, always ensuring everyone was included and treated fairly.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Do not believe the trip notes regarding shoes - trainers would not be suitable for this terrain, esp when snow on the ground. Walking shoes or boots are better. Take a pair of flip flops or similar, for camp and one of the walks involves a stream crossing. Don't bother to pack a hairdryer. Don't need anything smart for eating out - casual is fine. Pack a pillow of some kind. In June the Lake Louise camp was very cold at night, but the later camps were not so bad. Expect mosquitoes - don't forget your insect repellent. Most people found walking poles very useful. There are sometimes secure lockers for charging items at the camp site - otherwise there were sockets in the shower/toilet blocks, but not secure.

Most Inspirational Moment

We were there to celebrate our 25th anniversary. One evening, our guide, Michele, showed up in a convertible VW decorated, and two glasses of wine, and drove us to a place to snap a picture, one where he went on his own wedding, and then to join our group for a great dinner. This gesture, the thought, time and effort, simply was the icing on the cake.

Thoughts on Group Leader

If you can go with Michele, go. Organized, friendly, knowledgeable about the route, the history and group dynamics, all will feel welcome. You can turn off your brain, relax and take in the scenery knowing that he can and will look after anything that comes up. As wonderful as the trip is, the group members and the guide really determine the outcome. We lucked into a great group of fellow cyclists and a wonderful guide.

Advice for Potential Travellers

For long haul travellers coming into a place like Venice and landing in the morning, it is probably worth getting a hotel near Marco Polo Airport and going to relax there while waiting to meet the others. The airport is very congested, under construction and it is not a great place to spend the day waiting.

Most Inspirational Moment

Arriving at the top of a long climb and having a long downhill to look forward to, followed by a dip in the sea to cool off.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our leader was great, very knowledgeable and accommodating and always went above and beyond for everyone in the group. Great to have someone from the local area who understands all the best places to go.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Expect stunning scenery, some challenging hills and amazing local food.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were so many great moments.... the colour of the water, the white sandy beaches, the rolling hills and gum trees (reminded me so much of Australia!). But the thing that sticks in my mind was swimming in the sea at the bottom of the cliff upon which our hotel was located in Nebida and later having dinner watching the sun sink into the Mediterranean Sea. It was quite stunning.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Michele was a key reason I returned to Italy this year to do this tour - he is a really nice guy. After travelling with him in 2015 the opportunity to travel with him again in Sardinia was a no-brainer. Michele gave 110% for the entire tour and often did things (such as early morning "extra" rides before breakfast) that were above and beyond the call of duty. Nothing was ever too much trouble for Michele. Ado, Michele's assistant, was also fantastic. He really made everyone feel welcome and was very efficient doing all the van, bike, luggage and drink tasks. Ado's warm friendly nature just made the trip so much fun. We were really fortunate to have Michele and Ado as our tour leaders on this trip.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The riding on days 2 and 3 was quite challenging (I ride a road bike regularly). There are a few long hill climbs that will test your fitness especially if you're not used to warm Mediterranean weather. So I would recommend you do a bit of training before doing the trip if you're not used to riding big hills.