Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Every day was inspirational - I didn't want the holiday to end. 1.When we arrived we drove to Split, walked round the port and the UNESCO Diocletian Palace, where we had dinner and then boarded the ferry (the terrific thunder storm at sea was great fun). This was a taste of the "delights" to follow! 2.The beauty of the rugged and rocky Dalmatian coasts and the charming little villages nestled along the coastlines. We were island hopping taking numerous ferries and our excellent driver got us everywhere on time. Particularly enjoyed the cycle rides (often through vineyards - there was even a tunnel!) around the islands of Hvar, Korcula, and Mljet, although a couple of gravel roads were a challenge for me - but one can get off the bike. 3. The architecture, charm and beauty of the Stari Grads of Hvar, Korcula and Dubrovnik and the history. Loved the walk round Dubrovnik town walls and the views of the now repaired rooftops and the sea - best done early in the morning. The bus trips into town were fun and even getting lost! 4. The fresh food and restaurants, especially the Konoba Mate at Pupnat, the organic lunch stop on the second day at the top of a hill overlooking the island of Brac and the restaurant down a backstreet in Dubrovnik, where we had our farewell dinner. And the Posip white wine of Korcula is DELICIOUS. Drinking this was perhaps my most inspirational moment(s) of the trip!!!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Charming, courteous and considerate of the group's needs. And very well organised and social. He supported and helped all 13 of us equally and accompanied us to the Airport at the end of the trip. I had 2 flat tires (back and front) and he changed each one efficiently. The second flat tire he noticed at an intersection, where he was waiting to make sure we took the correct turn, on a very steep road down to the sea - I was lucky! All 13 of us got on very well - which seems to happen on cycling tips and we had some good laughs. It was great that we had 2 Americans and 1 Canadian on the trip. And one of the most amusing moments, was when we were cycling back along the coast to Lumbarda on Korcula and we were overtaken by a group of very fast cyclists - they were on electric bikes! I couldn't understand why I was so slow until I realised.

Advice for Potential Travellers

This trip might not be suitable for avid cyclists. Even I, as an older, slightly anxious cyclist found the cycling rather too easy. We were always warned about the hills, but they were nothing compared with Sardinia and Tuscany, also classed as moderate holidays. Marko did allow one of our group to cycle independently at times, but he was the fastest and the only one who wanted to. Our optional day on the island of Mijet was fun, but the hordes of tourists made this my least favourite day. My guide book (NOT trip notes) said there were no cars, but there were lots. And it was not as relaxing as Hvar and Korcula. The swim was great though and my advice is to bring sandals or shoes to swim in as there are lots of sea urchins everywhere along the rocky coast and few sandy beaches. And if you are over 70 the Park entrance fee is less! Just enjoy the fabulous views, coastline, ancient towns and particularly the Posip wine! Travelling by bike is a great way to see Croatia.

Most Inspirational Moment

Having experienced some fantastic places along the route, for us the finale in Lecce with a group of people we'd got to know was very special and a stunning end to a great week.

Thoughts on Group Leader

We were fortunate enough to have two leaders and both did all they could to make the trip a special week. They had the local knowledge, great organisational skills and above all a great sense of humour!

Advice for Potential Travellers

If we were to help inform anyone considering this trip, we'd definately recommend this for anyone wanting to see southern Italy and who has done some cycling leading up to the week. We decided to add an extra day at the start in Matera and at the end in Lecce which we'd reccommend to discover these beautiful places. The bikes were good however we decided to take our own saddle and pedals which we'd suggest if you want a little more "touch point" familiarity.

Most Inspirational Moment

The stunning views of the glacier and snow capped summit of Mont Blanc from most parts of the trekking routes but also from the chalet (whilst relaxing in the hot tub)!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Group leader was knowledgeable, friendly and easy going

Advice for Potential Travellers

Every day's walk starts from one valley or another which requires a steep uphill walk, this obviously means that a steep descent is required at the end of the day. Walking poles and good footwear are really a necessity

Most Inspirational Moment

The whole time at Petra but yes it has to be seeing the Treasury upon fully exiting the Siq - awesome sight and something to behold in both design and natural surroundings. Though it must be said Wadi Rum on the jeep drive has an amazing landscape and must be held with as much regard for me. Floating in the Dead Sea is a really good experience albeit very strange most relaxing and moisturising for your skin all at once.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Zuhair was very organised, and extremely knowledgeable about his country and it's past and present and the Geography of it's areas. He also was friendly with the group and became part of the group as opposed to ordering the group for this and that which is always a bonus - overall a good Group Leader that earns respect of his group.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Food in Jordan is not cheap, ensure when you eat out that you either have Mezze or a main - both in general are not needed as way too much food. If you like Lamb try the Mansaf - just do it you won't regret it. Do the Camel ride to sunset - very enjoyable indeed and if you have the legs for it do all walks offered around Petra by your Leader - as there are lots of out the way hidden extras there.

Most Inspirational Moment

Looking out over the gorgeous coastline and clear water when kayaking and (while on one of the walks) seeing parts of a Roman aquaduct which is still working in some respects, all these years later.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Maho is wonderful. Professional, concientious, very experienced. You feel like you're in very capable hands. He booked restaurants and went out with us during the evenings as well as during the day, to make sure the entire experience was a really good one for us. Jan Jan was also with us during the kayaking and I found him to be very pleasant and helpful also. Both were at your side very quickly if they felt you needed assistance.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Water shoes are handy for the kayaking. It was late 20s - 30 centigrade in mid Sept and I should have brought a little more clothing to suit those kinds of temperatures. It took a day or two to get used to the heat when walking. I found a hat essential, plus I used a platypus waterbag for my backpack as I drank more water on this trip than I ever did before. Saves you having to dig a bottle out of your back pack all the time. Walking poles would be helpful on some of the ascents and descents. Not needed for all of the walks though. The longest walk (13km) along the aquaduct was the toughest one (for me), primarily due to the uphill parts, over rocks and quite steeply up a forest path for a time. Everyone else (a wide mixture of ages) managed fine and kindly waited for me. There are a lot of prickly shrubs on that walk, so some people may wish to bring lightweight trousers. A lot of it is picking your way along narrow paths, over rocks and alongside streams, so you do have to pick your steps carefully. There are some parts (very few) where people with a fear of heights may be a little nervous, but our group was fine, regardless. The rest of the walks were all easier. On the kayaking day, we paddled over to a really lovely spot for lunch. There were turtles swimming in the bay which was a bonus. Just be careful getting to and from your kayak over those rocks at the edge of the water. It's very shallow and there's a moss on the rocks which makes it very very slippy. Our guides helped us which was great, but worth bearing in mind. Mossie spray is useful (you can buy it in Kas though). Some of our group got bitten but many didn't.

Most Inspirational Moment

The walk to Nimaling was special as the views really open up as you approach the plateau and the light on the snow topped slopes of Kang Yatse shifted to reveal huge cracks in its cornices. Cows and horses grazed at the camp and huge flocks of sheep and goats (including Kashmir goats) passed by the tents to gather in summer corals on the opposite side of the river. The crossing of the Gongmaru La Pass in perfect weather with vivid blue skies enabling us to see a perfect panorama of mountain tops including a 7000m+ peak belonging to the Karakorum range in Pakistan. It was very special seeing somewhere you would love to visit but are unlikely to be able to. The descent through the gorge was spectacular.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Lakpa Lama was brilliant as a leader - kind, considerate, patient, good fun, competent. He had a great manner - at ease with everyone and quietly making sure that any problems were attended to and resolved as best as circumstances would permit.

Advice for Potential Travellers

On our trip we had real extremes of temperature almost every day - 35 daytime, below freezing at night- so pack for both extremes. I regretted not bringing a very lightweight windproof long sleeved top - my summer base-layer was too warm. A flannel for the morning basin of water is useful. We found canoe shoes good for river crossing leaving sandals dry for the evening. The dry air can cause throat/chest issues so Strepsils, cough sweets etc useful. Unlike Nepal you can't just pick up things like that at a local teahouse though there are tea parachute tents en route where you can buy soft drinks and some local community handicrafts made from wool. The stuffed snow leopards are best at Rumbak village tent. Mobile phones are blocked in Ladakh though there is erratic wifi at Glacier View Hotel. Safe water shop in Leh is great- try the Apricot or Sea buckthorn juice though I found the latter too bitter.

Most Inspirational Moment

Sitting on the high peaks under a clear blue sunny sky in stunning mountain scenery and those amazing views

Thoughts on Group Leader

Álvaro One of the best guides I have known. Fun, warm hearted and helped to make our trip so memorable. Everyone was important.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be warned. You will fall in love with everything this trip has to offer and go home with many good memories

Most Inspirational Moment

The views were amazing from forrest to coastline all were spectacular.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent leader with walking tips and general info.

Most Inspirational Moment

nothing inspirational.

Thoughts on Group Leader

excellent. zeljco was well organised. He gave good advice about each day's hike. He wasn't just a tour guide - he acted as a waiter (organising orders at group meal to hurry things along at group meals) or porter- helping people with suitcases etc.

Advice for Potential Travellers

take swimming things as there is lots of chances to swim if you want to. walking poles are useful but probably not essential. I used one which meant i always had a free hand. take plenty water each day.

Most Inspirational Moment

Being up in the mountains, with no traffic, almost complete silence, apart from birdsong, cowbells and my own breathing. Very long, fast downhill stretches

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent communicator and planner. Ver approachable. He had everything sorted for us, in advance, responded to our wishes and arranged a programme for us. He seems to know everyone in Albania and to get the best out of them. Despite serious family difficulties (his partner's brother's road accident) he continued to manage the tour in an exemplary professional manner.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Get quite a bit of training in first, to get your head and body fit for long climbs. You don't have to, but you'll enjoy it a lot more (I didn't and I still enjoyed it, but I really wish I'd prepared better). If you like your hair to look good in the evening, take a hairdryer. But no-one will mind what you look like. You won't need much currency, but changing is quite easy and commission free at kiosks on the street, or a little man at the airport. Meals in the mountains about 600-800 lek, on the coast/Tirana 1200. It cost me £100 - but I only drink water. Add around £30 for all drinks. People are very friendly and quite amused by us cycling past. They will try to help if you ask.