Ireland
Glendalough Youth Hostel,
Wicklow
 Glendaloch Hostel is set in a wooded valley
amid spectacular countryside ideal for walking in the surrounding Wicklow
Mountains.
Glendaloch Hostel is a 5 star
property with all rooms ensuite in a very modern building. Here we have
reserved enough rooms for everyone to have an ensuite single (no supplement).
Breakfast and packed lunches
will be supplied by the hostel, and in the evening we'll go out to eat close by
where there might even be some live Irish music playing.
http://www.glendaloughinternationalhostel.com/hostel-description
No
single supplement to pay
Extra nights: 60 Euros a night
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France
Chateau Bellenau, Normandy
 Chateau Bellenau is 30 minutes drive from
Cherbourg and is English owned. It is a small chateau with plenty of character
and charm, and shows its history (you can still find bullet holes in the dining
room remaining from D Day). However it is simply furnished inside, homely and
comfortable rather than elegant - a place one can relax or wander, with lovely
gardens to explore.
While we stay we will have
exclusive use of the Chateau itself - though there may be other people staying
in the gites next door, depending on the time of year. There are twin rooms and
plenty of singles (often twin or double rooms being taken as singles - Single
supplement £10 a night). The bedrooms are spacious and simply furnished.
All have ensuite facilities. In addition there is a spa area with a sauna and
hot tub; out front there is a tennis court (hard court), and there are a few
mountain bikes available to borrow. 
Holidays here are priced on a
full board basis with breakfast and packed lunches, and a delicious 3-course
meal on all evenings except for the day we visit Bayeux when we will eat out in
a restaurant there (this evening meal is not included - from £12).
Outside the grounds are
superb, and include a paradise garden with caves and waterways, little bridges
and ferns, follies, a lake with a boat, waterways and wonderful trees.
Beautiful gardens to wander or relax in with a book, and altogether a lovely
place to stay!
Take a look at the chateau's
website if you'd like to see more photographs or read about how the gardens
were first established. http://www.bellenau.com/
Ensuite single supplement:
£15 a night.
Currency:
Euro
Mobile reception: good
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Skiing -
Chalet Nicole, La Tania, French Alps
Ski-in/ski-out position -
Sauna - Ensuite rooms - Baths - Open fire & balcony!
 Two WW groups were so happy with Chalet
Nicole last year that we're returning there this year. Chalet Nicole is owned
and run by Family Friendly Skiing (a small UK company who are very pleased to
have no children for our 2 weeks!) The chalet has a virtually ski-in/ski-out
position at the bottom of the red run into La Tania just above the main La
Tania telecabine. The chalet is only 6 minutes on foot from the centre of the
village and the bottom of the blue run.
The chalet has 7 comfortable
twin rooms with ensuite bathrooms, and one smaller single room with an ensuite
shower (£10 a night single supplement). Downstairs there is a sauna for
relaxing tired muscles after skiing - what a luxury - a good sized ski boot
room with a heated boot rack. 
The lounge/dining room is on
the 2nd floor with a central fireplace (in this photo the fireplace blocks the
view of the sofa which extends behind it). From the lounge there are doors out
onto the balcony which runs right around the building. The kitchen is on the
same floor as the lounge - and here the chalet staff will prepare our
breakfasts and evening meals - with free local wine! Then on one night -
probably Wednesday - they take a night off, and we'll go out to sample the fare
at one of La Tania's little restaurants (not included - from £10).
The chalet staff run minibus
lift to ski school in the morning, with a pick-up at a time to suit you in the
afternoon. If the snow is too soft for beginners in the resort, they will drive
you to the ski school in Courchevel 1850 a little higher up the valley. So you
have the best skiing conditions without having to make an effort! Furthermore,
you won't have to walk into the village to hire boots & skis on the first
day as FFS hire out their own boots & skis. They will also arrange our lift
passes when we arrive - so bring a passport sized photo with you to save time.
www.familyfriendlyskiing.com
Single Supplement for
small ensuite single room: £10 a night
Currency:
Euro
Mobile reception: Dual band, good Back to the location
menu?
Spain
Intermediate Andalucia - Hotel La
Finca el Cerrillo
 Hotel Finca el Cerrillo is a
lovely small hotel situated in peaceful countryside close to the traditional
Andalucian villages of Canillas de Albaida and Competa in the foothills of the
Sierra Almijara, Southern Spain. From its terraces there are sweeping views of
the valley below and of the nearby national park.
There is a small swimming
pool out front with stunning views, and sun loungers - perfect for taking a dip
after walking! There is also plenty of shade in the gardens if you
prefer. 
All the bedrooms are very
nicely decorated and have ensuite facilities. There are twin rooms and double
rooms that can be taken as singles with a supplement.
The sitting and dining rooms
are also very beautifully decorated. Last year's group said unanimously what a
beautiful place La Finca was to stay in - and how we should say more here to
let women know that before they book!!
Single Supplement:
£10 a night
Currency: Euros. You won't need a lot of cash - except
for postcards, presents, drinks in the evening and when out walking, and the
trip to the Alhambra in Granada (£30 approx). The nearest ATM machine is
in Competa - 1 hour away on foot - or 8 mins by local taxi. The nearest bank is
nearer - but with a steep walk back uphill. So maybe bring some cash with you!
There are also ATM machines at Malaga Airport.
For more detail see:
http://www.hotelfinca.com/index.asp Back to the location
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The Alpujarras, Spain
Nights 1-6: Hotel Los Berchules, Los
Berchules village
 This is a lovely small hotel
set on the edge of Los Berchules village with a back drop of the snow-capped
Cerro Gordo. Outside is the long terrace with its beautiful view, where meals
and drinks can be served. The hotel gardens are well stocked with many
interesting flowers and shrubs and a small almond grove which produces enough
for the hotel's needs. Guests who come in October, when the almonds are ready
to harvest, are welcome to pick their own!
The reception area of the
hotel and café-bar is open plan and spacious, pinewood panelled and with
large windows overlooking the valley and the mountain beyond. There are tables
and chairs for light snacks and refreshments, and comfortable sofas round the
large wood-burning fireplace. In the dining room delicious meals are served all
made with fresh local ingredients - goats milk cheese, barbecue grilled lamb,
chicken in almond sauce, and the “soups of the day” – every day
a different local soup or stew. Salads and gazpacho are very popular, and
vegetarians are also catered for. To accompany this is a good selection of wine
from the region as well as Rioja and others, mineral water and Bérchules
water which is of an equivalent quality. 
There are ensuite twin and
single bedrooms are of a good size, and some have balconies with tables and
chairs overlooking the beautiful view of valley, mountains and, on clear days,
to the sea. The en-suite bathrooms are modern and efficient with plenty of hot
water and guaranteed plugs for bath and basin!
http://www.hotelberchules.com/hotel/index.html
Night 7: Hotel Casa Federico,
Granada
 Hotel Federico is a lovely
old hotel in the pedestrain centre of Granada that has been tastefully
redecorated with lots of delightful features and comfortable ensuite twin and
single rooms.
Wherever possible we have
taken rooms with views over the Granada cityscape, and this is the view you get
from the top terraza that is open to all guests (see right). 
In 15 minutes walking you can
get to: the entrance to the Alhambra, Paseo de los Tristes, La Catedral, Plaza
Bib Rambla, El Albaicín, Barrio Realejos (everything of interest in
Granada.) Breakfasts and evening meal are not possible at the hotel, so we will
go out to eat in local restaurants... (Meals in Granada not included).
http://granadainfo.com/fed/index.htm
Single supplement:
£10 a night
Currency:
Euro
Mobile reception: can be iffy in places in the mountains.
Fine in Granada & Los Berchules. Back to the location
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Canary
Islands
La Gomera
 For this trek we will be staying in a variety of places
- small hotels, appartments, or rooms - whatever is available around the
island! The style of breakfasts & packed lunches will also vary, and
sometimes it will be easiest for Marian to buy packed lunch materials that
everyone then helps make up.
1st night: San
Sebastian - the capital of the island. Here we will be staying in Hotel Torre
del Conde where we have twin rooms with ensuite facilities, TV, phone, a small
fridge and a safe. The hotel is in the middle of this busy little town, 7
minutes walk from the beach and ferry port where we arrive on the island. In
the evening we'll go out to explore San Sebastian's small restaurants (evening
meals are not included - from £8).
2nd & 3rd nights:
Vallehermoso. Having walked from Agulo north of San Sebastian, we arrive in
Vallehermoso, a small town on the north of the island. Here we stay at Hotel
Tamahuche - a lovely small hotel with comfortable ensuite rooms, attractive
outlook and communal rooms.
http://www.ecoturismocanarias.com/hoteltamahuche/eng/bienvenidos.htm
 4th night: Chipude is a little
village high up in the mountains on the south face of the island, and has only
one place to stay - namely Pension Sonia. Here again we have reserved twin
rooms, and the evening meal is taken at the pension (and is included in the
price of the holiday).
5th & 6th nights:
Playa Santiago is on the sunniest south coast of the island, and here you will
be staying in 6 appartments at Apartamentos Tapahuga next to the sea. These
appartments have a swimming pool and terrace - the most appropriate place to
plan a day off from walking! It is also possible to catch a boat around the
island from here - unless the sea is rough.
7th night: San
Sebastian. Our Last night will be at Hotel Torre del Conde in San Sebastian
again - to be near the ferry for an early return to Tenerife the next
morning.
No single supplement
possible.
Currency: Euro - you will need cash for drinks and evening
meals on the trek. ATM machines in Tenerife airport & San Sebastian. Banks
and bureau to change in San Sebastian & Playa Santiago. Back to the location
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Italy
Gran Paradiso, Italian Western
Alps
1st & 7th nights -
Albergo Gran Paradiso
 The first and last night of this holiday will be at
Albergo Gran Paradiso in the pretty little village of Noasca. The Albergo Gran
Paradiso is an old hotel in the village centre next to the river Orca, and is
owned by Josepe. Unfortunately it is also near the church, so some rooms have
chimes through the night, and some have the river noise! Here we will take all
the rooms available - standard twins, and two 3-bedded rooms. In Noasca there
is also a tabacci (sells stamps) and post office, a souvenir shop, a grocer
(for buying last minute dried fruit, nuts and biscuits for extra supplies!), as
well as the Gran Paradiso National Park information centre - well worth a
visit, and they have stunning postcards too! We will eat at the albergo on the
last night, and on the first night also if the flights schedule allows. Easyjet
does not offer inflight meals, so please bring sufficient food with you for the
journey - especially if the flight time has moved to early evening.
2nd & 6th nights -
Rifugio Le Fonti
 Higher up the Valle del Orca we will stop for the night (going and
returning) at the village of Ceresole Reale near to the lake of the same name.
Here we will stay in lively Rifugio Le Fonti which is a GTA refuge (Grande
Traversati degli Alpi - long distance footpath), again next to the rushing Orca
River. The lower part of the building is partly a pizzeria, and partly a
mineral spa - surely healthy, but tasting strongly of iron! Daniella runs the
refuge, and will cook us a good evening meal (trout, sometimes pizzas...). The
accommodation is bunk beds in dormitories of different sizes - and those who
have the larger dormitory on the way up, can have the smaller rooms on the way
back!
3rd, 4th, & 5th nights
- Rif. Citta di Chivasso
 Reaching the Col del Nivolet we will stay at Rifugi Citta di
Chivasso with the extraordinary panoramic position mentioned in the holiday
description. Rif. Citta di Chivasso is an atmospheric traditional refuge
reserved for walkers and climbers. The refuge sleeps 30 in total, and we shall
have bunks in 2 dormitories - most likely the large downstairs dormitory with
its own washroom/loo where the beds are on 2 traditional-style platforms, and
then one other dormitory upstairs.
 The water for the refuge is pumped from a
small lake nearby, and has to be conserved to last the season: there is one hot
shower - on a token system, but sometimes there is not enough water for
showers, and it's generally appreciated if you mainly wash using the hand
basins (or swim in the nearby lake). The refuge has solar power with a back-up
generator, so lights have to be turned off at 10pm (bring a torch if you
 want to read longer and to save putting the
light on at night). The food at the refuge is good and plentiful, and will be
cooked for us by friendly Alessandro the custodian and his team of 'raggazzi'
(young men).
Despite these simpler
conditions at Citta di Chivasso, women loved staying there best of all last
year!
No single supplement
possible.
Currency: Euro - bring Euro in cash. There is an ATM
machine at Turin airport, but no ATM, bank or bureau de change after this
point. The places we stay are too small to take credit cards. Back to the location
menu?
Switzerland
Jungfrau Tour, Swiss Alps
Wide ranging accommodation in
stunning locations. Bed linen is usually provided but a sheet sleeping bag is
needed in a couple of places. All breakfasts are included, and all bu 2 evening
meals. However for lunches it is easiest to stop for a bowl of soup and other
snacks at huts we pass along our way (not included - from £6-8 depending
on what you choose).
  Night 1:
Interlaken
Hotel Post Hardermannli - A friendly 2 star hotel run by Kim
and Andreas (Kim is from NZ). Evening meal is included. Sleeping in ensuite
twin rooms (twins are like Austrian twins - 2 mattresses with separate bedding,
but on one bed base). The Hotel Post Hardermannli is located in the historic
centre of the oldest area in the town of Interlaken. The Hotel is a 5 minute
walk from the Interlaken West train station and the centre of town. The Ost or
East station is a 5 minute journey by bus/taxi or a twenty minute walk.
(Directly across the road from the Hotel is a bank, pharmacy, post office and a
supermarket. The main shopping and commercial area is a 5 minute walk
away.
http://www.post-hardermannli.ch/english.htm
  Night 2:
Lobhornhutte
Beautiful chalet hut in the mountains with lots of wood
everywhere, bunk beds, and an amazing panorama out front!
 Night 3: Spielbodenalp - Murren
Another
beautiful chalet hut in the mountains, again lots of wood everywhere, sleeping
on platform with mattresses in true alpine style. Fabulous location at the foot
of the Schilthorn, candles or oil lamps at night as there is no electricity.
Evening meal is included.
  Night 4: Stechelberg - Lauterbrunnen
valley
Alpenhof (was called Naturefreudenhaus). A homely and comfortable
guesthouse offering budget accomodation in 2, 4 or 6 bed-rooms with
breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding waterfalls. Bed linen is
provided. Shower and toilet facilities are provided on each floor. Sleeping in
standard twin bedrooms. Eat out in the evening at nearby hotel, hearty Alpine
breakfast at the guest house in the morning.
http://www.alpenhof-stechelberg.ch/pages/en/accomodation.html
 Night 5:
Eigergletscher
Guest house close to mountain railway - at the foot of
the Eiger - 'in an awe-inspiring world of ice and rock'. Sleeping in 2-3 bed
standard rooms (with communal showers on each floor). Beds have duvets.
Comfortable lounge downstairs.
http://www.jungfraubahn.ch/en/DesktopDefault.aspx/tabid-131/207_read-592/
  Night 6:
Grindelwald
Hotel Wetterhorn - 5 minutes walk from the centre of
Grindelwald. Here we stay in dormitory accommodation (bunk beds) with showers
on the same floor. Evening meal in the hotel dining room is included. Linen and
bedding provided.http://www.hotel-wetterhorn.ch/
 Night 7: Faulhorn
Hotel Faulhorn
- ancient hotel literally on top of the Faulhorn, at a height of 2681 meters.
This is not only the highest alpine hotel, but also the oldest. From the top of
the Faulhorn just behind the hotel there is an incredible 360 degree panorama
of the Eiger, Moench, Jungfrau, Wetterhorn, Schreckhorn, Brienzer, Rothorn...
and 7 Swiss lakes are visible. It was built in 1830 and the first tourists were
taken there by horses, or alpine chairs carried by locals! The rooms have
hardly changed since the time it opened (we are staying in twin rooms). The
hotel has much character and charm even if now a
 little delapidated due to the prohibitive cost of
modern repairs. Our evening meal is included (no longer a la carte like in the
old days, but just a cosy place with hearty food.
http://www.berghotel-faulhorn.ch/
Night 8: Interlaken
Hotel Post Hardermannli - same as night 1, see above. This meal is not
included - from £15.
Extra nights in
Interlaken: £40 a night B&B.
Currency: Swiss Francs.
(There are ATM machines in Interlaken if needed and Grindelwald, but probably
no where else that we stay). Back to the location menu?
Crete
Intermediate Crete - Oasis Rooms,
Rothakino
 Maria and Christina's Oasis
Rooms in Polyrisos near Rothakino consist of ensuite twins or singles, all with
sea views (see the white building furthest to the right in this
photo).
 The rooms are up a short
slope from the beach with olive trees behind and flowering trees in front. Each
has a balcony overlooking the sea, and a simple kitchen area with stove and
fridge for fixing breakfast. We can ask Maria to order us fresh bread daily
from the bread van, and we can buy butter, honey, yogurt, cheese, tomatoes and
anything else needed for breakfast and the next day's packed lunch from the
shop on our way home each day. There are several small tavernas in the village
for evening meals from £9 - or for lunch on the day we take off from
walking to enjoy the sea.
Single supplement:
£10 a night.
Currency: Euro - bring Euro in cash for
evening meals, and buying food for breakfasts & packed lunches (approx
£170).
ATM machine at the Airport, bureau de change at Loutro and
Hora Sfakion where we go on 3rd day, ATM machine in Hania before the Samarian
Gorge walk. Back to the location menu?
Turkey
'East Meets West'
- a traditional sailing gulet, Turkish Coast
 Definitely a holiday with a difference, this is the first time that
we have offered a holiday on a sailing boat - even if we will be walking as
usual on most of the days! What better way to explore the stunning Turkish
Coast with its forested hillsides, quiet inlets, coves and
islands.
'East Meets West' is a
wooden sailing gulet. Gulets were traditionally used by Turkish fisherman and
sponge divers to transport their catch.
Nowadays their roomy hulls
make them perfect for chartering, with space for 11 cabins and a saloon below
deck. Upstairs on the forward deck there will be space for sun loungers when
the boat is not sailing. The gulet also carries a canoe on board, as well as
snorkels, mask & fins (or bring your own). 
If the evenings are warm, we
can eat out on the aft deck under the stars, listening to the water lapping
against the hull. If the evenings are cool, we can eat in the saloon below
decks. Here there is also a hifi, so please bring any music you would like to
share. 
The gulet has 9 passenger
cabins - each with a fully appointed en-suite bathroom with flush toilet,
shower and handbasin with hot and cold water. The cabins also have a bedside
reading light, window, wardrobe and under bed storage. The 220v inverter means
that you can use your hairdryer or charge your mobile phone while on board.
Just remember to bring your adaptor! 
East Meets West is run by
Anne Edelston and her captain husband. In addition there will be two other crew
members, one of whom is likely to be a female cook. Anne will accompany us on
our walks as our local guide - and she is looking forward to this! While we are
walking, the captain and crew will sail or motor to the next rendevous point.
There is always an option to stay with the boat if you feel like a day off from
walking, motoring or sailing for 2-4 hours down the coast, then nosing into the
small cove or fishing harbour that the group is walking to. 
On board, the day starts with
a traditional Turkish breakfast enjoyed by families in homes across the
country. This delicious breakfast consists of local white cheese, similar to
Greek feta, eggs, salami, olives, slices of cucumber, tomatoes, local honey,
butter and jam, fresh bread and of course hot Turkish tea or çay. Packed
lunches will be prepared for us to take walking, then later in the day we'll be
picked up in time for afternoon tea and biscuits on deck (the cook may even
have baked a cake). 
Dinner is often fish, meat or
chicken. Maybe a meat or vegetable casserole or kebab enhanced by herbs and
spices which are used liberally to delicately flavour Turkish cuisine. Served
with rice, pasta or Bulgar wheat, bread and fabulous salads. There are also
plenty of delicious vegetable dishes in Turkish cuisine for vegetarians. Drinks
are available on board at the bar or from the crew at any time - paid for on an
honesty system.
For more information &
photos, see the East Meets West website:
http://meridiantravels.com/
Ensuite single supplement:
£10 a night
No extra nights possible
Currency: New Turkish Lira
(YTL) Back
to the location menu?
Slovenia
Penzion Vila Kolinska, Bled,
Slovenia
 Vila Kolinska is a newly
refurbished small hotel in a quiet residential corner of Bled, 10 minutes walk
from the lake and Bled centre.
All the rooms here are
attractively decorated and have ensuite facilities. We have reserved enough
rooms for everyone to have an ensuite single! Some of the bedrooms have
balconies and the first women to book will be put into these rooms.
Downstairs, there is a
comfortable foyer with leather seats, and a dining room where our buffet
breakfast will be served. The hotel will arrange for extra rolls, cheese,
tomato, fruit etc at breakfast so that you can make up the packed lunch of your
choice from the buffet. 
Vila Kolinska also has an
outside terrace with chairs and tables for putting on boots before we set off
walking, and for relaxing once we come back! There is no lounge space apart
from the foyer so we will mainly socialise where we eat out in the evening. You
may also want to bring a kettle for making tea or coffee in your room - invite
friends round for a cup!
No single
supplement
Mobile Phone - Single band, good coverage in and
around Bled.
Currency - Euros (from January 1st 2007) and most shops
also accept credit cards. ATM machine in Bled. Back to the location
menu?
Penzion Bohinj, Slovenia
 For the June Slovenia holiday we will be
staying at Penzion Bohinj, located on the outskirts of quiet Stara Fuzina
village next to the rushing Mosnitca River. Nearby is beauiful Bohinj lake, and
from the bedrooms there are views over the trees to the peaks bordering the
Bohinj valley. 10 minutes walk down the road is Ribcev Laz - a busier and more
touristy settlement on the main road.
Penzion Bohinj is
particularly suited to groups, offering very good value accommodation that
meets all essential needs without being smart or formal. It has 24 ensuite
bedrooms that we have reserved for this holiday so that everyone can have a
single room. The rooms are not large, but are very clean and furnished in a
simple modern style, each with a small ensuite shower room. Some have small
balconies looking out over the garden or neighbouring houses, others are
attractive mansard rooms tucked under the eves without a
balcony. 
Downstairs is the restaurant
which leads onto the garden. You can sit outside for a drink after walking - on
the terrace, or at garden tables under the trees. (There is also a tennis court
in the grounds!) The meals we take here will be home cooked, and will include
some traditional receipes. Extra food will be made available at breakfast so
that you can make up your own packed lunches to take walking.
We found Mirica, the manager,
and her all female team incredibly friendly and helpful. Their brochure says:
"You will be our dear guest. We shall try to make your stay here pleasant and
unforgettable".
No single
supplement.
Balcony supplement: £10.00 a night
Mobile Phone
- Single band, good coverage except in mountains.
Currency -
Euros (from January 1st 2007) and most shops also accept credit cards. ATM
machine in Bled. Back to the location menu?
Sutivan, Island of
Brac, Croatia
Pension Dora or Apartments to choose
from...
 Since Sutivan has no hotels or large pensions, here you
choose between Pension Dora and apartments within walking
distance of Pension Dora.
The apartments
These apartments are usually in traditional Sutivan houses that have been
converted to contain 3 to 8 apartments in total. In each case we will have
taken all the apartments in the building so that there will be other
WalkingWomen near, perhaps sharing a terrace or a shady courtyard. All are
within easy walking distance of Pension Dora which we will use as our focal
point and share breakfast each day.  
The apartments are simply
furnished, typically Croatian, and homely rather than smart and modern.
Each has a small
kitchen/lounge, and a bath or shower room. Nearby there is a small supermarket
where you can get tea and milk etc for a morning drink, or a snack after
walking.
You can share an apartment
with a friend of another woman on the holiday, or you can have an apartment to
yourself. See below for more details. Ensuite single £10 a night;
Standard single £5 a night.
1) The Tower Apartment - 3 standard
singles
 This building is
actually a 17th Century protected monument - one of the oldest buildings on the
edge of Sutivan Harbour. As such it has sea and harbour views, but no terrace
or courtyard. Beside the Tower there is a bench under some palm trees for
sitting with a book - but this isn't a private space. (The owners live on the
ground floor).
- 1 bedroom on the
1st floor with a tiny balcony. Lovely light room with 2 windows and harbour
view. Shower room with toilet is on this floor.
  2 bedrooms on the 2nd
floor which share the 1st floor bathroom. These again have harbour views. The
small kitchen is on this floor.
Standard single suppl.
£5 a night
2) Jelka Apartments - 4 ensuite
apartments:
Jelka's house is a short walk
from Pension Dora. Here there are 4 apartments, each with 1 bedroom, a shower
room, kitchen, & living room. The furniture is fairly modern in style. The
2 upper rooms also have a balcony with sea view out over an orchard. The 2
lower rooms have views out onto a lemon & orange orchard (but no balcony or
sea views). There is also a shady terrace looking onto another orchard which is
shared between the apartments and the owner's family (who live on the ground
floor - the owner, Jelka, and her adult Downs Syndrome daughter. Jelka doesn't
speak no English but she is very friendly. Sorry no photos).
Ensuite single supplement
in apartments: £10 a night
3) Dinka Apartments - 8 ensuite
apartments:
 Dinka's house has 2 floors with 4 apartments on each
floor. The upper floor apartments share a small terrace, while the lower floor
apartments open onto a shady courtyard.
 
Each apartment has a bedroom,
a small kitchen/lounge and shower room. This means that each apartment can be
used as an ensuite single - with other women staying near.
Ensuite single supplement
in apartments: £10 a night
Pension Dora
 Pension Dora will
be our focal point. We will meet up for breakfast here each morning, make our
packed lunches from a buffet table, then eat together here on 4 evenings. The
Pension has an attractive vine-covered courtyard with tables where excellent
meals are served, and you can always order a drink here.
On the other 3 evenings we'll
go out to eat together in smaller groups so that we don't overwhelm the small
restaurants on the sea front. 
Some women can also stay at
Pension Dora. The Pension offers conventional ensuite twin rooms and ensuite
single rooms. In some cases the ensuite facilities include a bath rather than a
shower. The pension rooms do not have kitchens and lounges like the apartments,
nor do they have sea views. They overlook the restaurant, and there may be some
noise from the restaurant in the evening. Staying at Pension Dora does not suit
women who like early nights.
Pension Dora: Ensuite
single supplement: £10 a night
Currency: Croatian
Kuna
Mobile reception: generally very good Back to the location
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Bulgaria
Intermediate Rhondope
Moutains
Night 1: Hotel Bulgaria,
Plovdiv
 Our first night will be at Hotel Bulgaria in Plovdiv,
Bulgaria's lovely 2nd city. Hotel Bulgaria is totally modern from the outside,
but is surprisingly luxurious in an elegant style on the inside, with pillars
and ornate staircase in the lobby.
The bedrooms will all be
ensuite singles rooms. The hotel offers free wireless internet connection &
safety deposit box facility.
http://www.hotelbulgaria.net/Index.html
Night 2-6: Hotel Yagodina, Yagodina
village
 Hotel Yagodina is a small village hotel run by two
sisters, located in the remote village of Yagodina in the Rhondope Mountains.
The hotel has a new wing (not yet showing on their website) which will allow us
enough rooms for everyone to have an ensuite twin or family room as a single
(with no extra single supplement to pay). The rooms are all furnished with pine
furniture in a clean modern style.
Downstairs there is the
restaurant where tasty dishes will be served - including Rhodope specialties,
jams prepared at home, sheep and cow milk, home-cultured yogurt, juice of
blueberry. As the sisters say on their website: "home made jams are one of the
things we will offer you prepared by ourselves with lot of efforts and love".
The hotel also has a nice
summer garden with seats and a lot of flowers, and a barbecue "for the
connoisseur of Rondope lamb".
http://www.yagodina-bg.com/indexen.html
Night 7: Hotel Lozenetz, Sofia (or
similar)
For our last night we drive
back to Sofia where we will stay at either Hotel Lozenetz or the Hill Hotel -
both modern hotels conveniently located near the city centre. As soon as we
know which hotel has been chosen, the details will be added here.
No single supplement to
pay
Currency: Bulgarian Lev
Mobile reception: may be poor in some
mountains areas Back to the location menu?
XC skiing & snowshoeing, Sumava
& Prague, Czech Republic
Nights 1-7: Pension Pohoda, Kvilda,
Sumava
 The first 7 nights of this
new Cross country skiing holiday are spent in the village of Kvilda, the
highest village in the Czech Republic at 1065m.
Here we have reserved most of
the rooms at Pension Pohoda so that there are plenty of single rooms available.
The twin room have ensuite facilities while the single rooms share a bathroom
with 1 other woman in the group. All the pension rooms have a TV and a small
refrigerator. 
Our meals will be served in
the dining room downstairs, and we will make our own packed lunches from the
buffet spread at breakfast. Often we will be able to stop at a small cafe along
our trails or in villages we reach, giving the opportunity to buy a hot drink
or a bowl of soup (however, please bring a thermos flask as well).
In addition we will have the
use of the facilities at the Pension's sister hotel across the road - the
Sumava Inn. Here there is a cosy bar and lounge, a pool room, and even a sauna
we can book. http://www.penzionpohoda-kvilda.cz/en/index.htm
Standard Single
supplement: £10 a night
Night 8: Hotel Atos,
Prague
 Hotel Atos is situated in attractive part
of Prague-Mala strana - within walking distance of Charles Bridge and Prague
Castle. Across the bridge lies Prague Old Town Square with the Astronomical
clock and most of the other famous sights of Prague are within walking
distance.
Hotel Atos has been recently
refurbished. was opened only recently, It has 35 ensuite bedrooms with
telephone, min-bar, satelite TV and hairdryer. The hotel has a lift (always
welcome!), and other facilities include a 24 hour reception, buffet style
breakfast, and a hotel restaurant serving Italian and Greek cuisine. The hotel
is conveniently near to a bus and tram stop if needed.
Ensuite single supplement:
£15.00 a night
Currency: Czech
Koruna
Mobile phone coverage: good Back to the location
menu?
M'goun Trek, High
Atlas, Morocco
 Nights 1:
Hotel Riad Assia, Marrakech
For the first night of the
holiday we will stay at a small hotel near the centre of Marrakech, tucked away
down a quiet side street, less than 5 minutes walk from the souks and Jamna el
Fnaa square. This will give us an opportunity to experience the culture here,
explore the souks on our first afternoon, and eat out near the square in the
evening (The Easyjet flight is generally early in the day). 
Hotel Riad Assia has lovely
traditional decor, small but comfortable ensuite rooms with hand made bed
covers and curtains. The rooms are arranged around a tiny courtyard with chairs
and plants, and on the roof there is the traditional roof terrace with views
over the rooftops to the Koutoubia mosque.
Single supplement
available for all Marrakech nights: £12 per night
Extra nights
possible in Hotel Riad Assia: £27 per night
http://www.hotel-assia-marrakech.com/
Nights 2 : Auberge at Agouti, Ait
Bougoumez
Leaving early we drive 3.5
hour drive from Marrakech to Ait Bouguemez, stopping for lunch in Azilal on the
way. Ait Bouguemez (or Ait Bougmez) is a green valley, sometimes known for that
reason as 'happy valley'. Here we stay in a valley auberge in Agouti.
Agouti is a little Berber
village offering more traditional accommodation, in dormitory rooms shared with
other members of the group, sleeping on mattresses on floor. Hot showers (for a
small cost), stunning roof terrace with view across the valley. Our trekking
cook arrives and cooks our evening meal for us.
Nights 3, 4, 5, & 6: Trek to the
summit of Jebel M'goun
 For
these trekking nights to the summit of Jebel M'goun and back, we will stay in
2-person tents which mules will carry for us during the day along with our
gear. You will need to bring a warm sleeping bag for these nights - 4 season
for the highest camp. Here is the itinerary:
Day 3: The mules
arrive early, and after breakfast we start our trek, crossing the valley, then
climbing to the plateau of Tamzrit. From here we climb again, steady zigzags to
the ridge above where we have wonderful views back over the 'happy valley' of
Ait Bouguemez. We then descend to reach the Tafnfant plateau for lunch. From
here we ascend again and 'contour' the hillside (this consists of lots of small
ups and downs at each dry stream bed). Finally we reach our campsite for the
night where the muleteeres have already erected our tents and are preparing
dinner. (Camp at 2400m). (7-8 hrs walking. Total ascent: 1300m. Total descent:
700m). 
Day 4:After breakfast
and helping strike the tents, we descend from our campsite into a striking
valley to reach the village of Roughelt (1898m) where turning up a side valley
we take the big "caravanier" route up a gorge, crossing and re-crossing the
river frequently on stepping stones. After lunch near the top of the gorge, we
turn up another side valley, climbing steadily to Col du Roughelt (3400m).
Dropping down the other side we reach our campsite at Idougmamen above the
Tassaout valley (2600m). (7 hours walking. Total ascent 1502m. Total descent
1302m). 
Day 5:Starting early
before the sun reaches our route, we ascend from Idougmamen to the Col de
Targdit (3400m), through amazing pinnacles and other karstic rock features.
Definitely a break at the col! Then we walk over the plateau of Targdit past
nomad settlements to reach our lunch spot. After lunch and a short siesta we
continue to traverse the plateau, then descend into the Targdit valley, passing
the entrance of the Wandras Gorge. Walking up the valley to Refuge Targdit
(2919m), we can finally see Jebel Mgoun, though not all of our route to get
there. We camp in the valley near Refuge (which sometimes has enough water for
campers to have a shower!) Besides the refuge there are only the nomad's
temporary settlements and their many flocks grazing. (7 hours of walking. Total
ascent 900m. Total descent: 503m). 
Day 6:A dawn start, we
set off for the summit of Jebel Mgoun (4068m). Our route takes us up through
the moon like terrain of the High Atlas. Yet in places there are alpine flowers
where the snow has recently melted. We may have to cross patches of snow, and
in place the path traverses 2 steep slopes which vertigo sufferers might find
difficult. Up and up in the thin air, finally we reach the summit, rewarded by
an exceptional view of the whole of the Central High Atlas. There are also
fossils to be found here if we have the energy. Returning the same way, we stop
for lunch, then continue to retrace our steps to our campsite - with a great
sense of achievement! (8 hours walking. Total ascent: 1200m. Descent:
1200m). 
Day 7:For the last day
of the trek, we climb to Oumskiyk Pass at 3400m, then descend through stunning
flowering shrubs then flowers, via a series of interlocking valleys back to Ait
Bouguemez. This is a long long 'down' - and we do most of it before lunch,
leaving only the last few kilometres back to Ait Bouguemez for after our
siesta. (7 hours. Total ascent: 481m.Total descent: 1585m).
La Casbah Du
M’Goun
  This night we stay at a restored
casbah on the top of a little hill, surrounded by the houses and orchards
of the village. Here we can enjoy a well-deserved shower and rest before dinner
- still cooked by our trekking cook. If we are lucky, the muleteeres will
return to make their traditional music with us in the evening.
The Casbah is simply
furnished with twin and 3-bedded rooms - in some cases the mattress on the
floor instead of on a bed base. However the showers are hot, the architecture
is delightful, there is a terrace where you look out over the fields in one
direction, and around the corner you look out over the village. Last year we
watched villagers creating a threshing floor, with donkeys the carrying
water...
 Day 8:After breakfast we pack up and walk
through the orchards to the main road where our minibuses are waiting
(Muleterres will come to take our luggage). It's time to leave Ait Bouguemez
and drive out though the valleys and foothills of the Atlas to return to
Marrakech. On the way back we can detour to the stunning Cascades d'Ouzoud
(waterfall).
Riad Lena, Marrakech
 Arriving in Marrakech we stay at
Riad Lena - a very comfortable hotel for women who have just been
trekking!
Staying here will afford us a
little more luxury without putting us at a distance from the Medina and Jamna
el Fnaa square (8 minutes walk). The bedrooms all have ensuite facilities and
air conditioning. 
The rooms are not large, but
are beautifully decorated with lovely traditional touches. They all open out
onto the terrace overlooking the internal courtyard. If you want to treat
yourself it's possible to have a ensuite double or twin room as a single for a
supplement of £27 a night. 
The staff here are friendly.
There is a small swimming pool in the central courtyard, and a roof terrace
with stunning views over Marrakech. There are several beautifully decorated
salons and lounges at the hotel for relaxing and socialising. In the evening we
will go out to eat in the Medina.
Day 9: Leisure day -
time to have a relaxed start, late breakfast, enjoy the pool, sit and read,
take it all in - or walk to the Souks to do some last souvenir shopping, visit
the sights of Marrakech - the Koutoubia Mosque built in the 12th century, the
Saadien Tombs, the Bahia Palace, the Menara basin…
http://www.riadlena.com/
Single supplement at Riad
Lena: £27 a night
Extra nights: £53
Day 10: Transfer to
Airport. Fly back to UK
Morocco is a muslim country,
and although Marrakech is very cosmopolitan, we ask that you respect the
villagers in the high atlas by wearing full limb cover. (you can change into
shorts once we are out of the villages).
Currency: Moroccan
Dirhams can be obtained in Marrakech (£1=approx 15 DHS), but the banks
will not accept Scottish or Irish bank notes. There are plenty of ATMs in the
city.
Mobile reception: Good in Marrakech, some reception in Ait
Bouguemez, but generally poor in the mountains.
Back
to the location menu?
Intermediate
Atlas Trek, High Atlas, Morocco
Nights 1:
Hotel Riad Assia, Marrakech
For the first night of the
holiday we will stay at a small hotel near the centre of Marrakech, tucked away
down a quiet side street, less than 5 minutes walk from the souks and Jamna el
Fnaa square. This will give us an opportunity to experience the culture here,
explore the souks on our first afternoon, and eat out near the square in the
evening (The Easyjet flight is generally early in the day).
Hotel Riad Assia has lovely
traditional decor, small but comfortable ensuite rooms with hand made bed
covers and curtains. The rooms are arranged around a tiny courtyard with chairs
and plants, and on the roof there is the traditional roof terrace with views
over the rooftops to the Koutoubia mosque.
Single supplement
available for all Marrakech nights: £12 per night
Extra nights
possible in Hotel Riad Assia: £27 per night
http://www.hotel-assia-marrakech.com/
 Nights 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, & 7: Mgoun Gorge
trek
Day 2: Leaving early
we drive 3.5 hour drive from Marrakech to Ait Bouguemez, stopping for lunch in
Azilal on the way. On arriving in Tabant (1800 m), we will have some
refreshment at an auberge while our gear is loaded onto mules), and change into
our walking gear to finish the afternoon with 2-3 hours walking. This will
start us off on our trek, commencing the zig-zag path towards the Ait Imi pass,
and stopping part way up at a good camping spot near a spring so that we can
spread the total ascent over 2 days. (Ascent approx 400m)
For these trekking nights we
will stay in 2-person tents which mules will carry for us during the day along
with our gear. You will need to bring a warm sleeping bag for these nights - 4
season for the highest camp. 
Day 3: The next
morning we will complete the distance to the Col Ait Imi (2905 m) while the
morning is cool. This pass is between the two mountains ; Waougoulzat (3513 m)
and Ighil´N´IIgoudamene (3519 m). With magnifivant views over Ait
Bouguemez on one side and the summit of M´Goun on the other. Descending
down to the valley Amougr Saln and the 2nd camp is at
Tighremt´N´Aït Ahmed, an ancient kasbah (2235 m). (5hr walk;
ascent+ 705 m, descent 670 m). 
Day 4: A day of
villages and views. We start in the high valley of Ouzighimt, and then descend
through numerous villages - El Mrabitine, Tagheft, Waouchki and other small
hamlets. We will camp at the river side not far from ´Ighem Izdarn (2000
m). 5h30 walking, ascent approx 700m, descent approx 990 m. 
Day 5: Today we walk
into the scenic Gorges of Mgoun, where walls of rock tower on both sides up to
600 m. The walk will go through the water passing from one side of the gorge to
the other, and at one point there is no choice but to walk in the water - but
it is not deep. Our camp that night will be at the village of Tiranimine (1780
m). 6h walk, descent 220 m. 
Day 6: Following the
side of the river Mgoun we walk a short distance to the big village of Irghem
Aqdim (1650 m). Afterwards the route goes through the villages and over the
irrigation canals of the berber villages and fields. We will also pass the
village of Tamgallouna (1630 m) before reaching camp at Boutaghar (1580 m).
5.30h walk, descent 200 m.
Day 7: Leaving quite
early in the morning we will walk to the villages of Aït Saïd and
Touzrikt passing many old Kasbahs and ruined towers of pise (the local building
material ) scattered along our route. After 2h walk we reach the end of our
trek - reaching the point where we can be picked up by minibus. We now drive to
Ouarzazate, then Marrakech with a stop for lunch on the way over Tizi
N´Tichka.
Riad Lena, Marrakech
Arriving in Marrakech we stay at
Riad Lena - a very comfortable hotel for women who have just been
trekking!
Staying here will afford us a
little more luxury without putting us at a distance from the Medina and Jamna
el Fnaa square (8 minutes walk). The bedrooms all have ensuite facilities and
air conditioning.
The rooms are not large, but
are beautifully decorated with lovely traditional touches. They all open out
onto the terrace overlooking the internal courtyard. If you want to treat
yourself it's possible to have a ensuite double or twin room as a single for a
supplement of £27 a night.
The staff here are friendly.
There is a small swimming pool in the central courtyard, and a roof terrace
with stunning views over Marrakech. There are several beautifully decorated
salons and lounges at the hotel for relaxing and socialising. In the evening we
will go out to eat in the Medina.
Day 9: Leisure day -
time to have a relaxed start, late breakfast, enjoy the pool, sit and read,
take it all in - or walk to the Souks to do some last souvenir shopping, visit
the sights of Marrakech - the Koutoubia Mosque built in the 12th century, the
Saadien Tombs, the Bahia Palace, the Menara basin…
http://www.riadlena.com/
Single supplement at Riad
Lena: £27 a night
Extra nights: £53
Day 10: Transfer to
Airport. Fly back to UK
Morocco is a muslim country,
and although Marrakech is very cosmopolitan, we ask that you respect the
villagers in the high atlas by wearing full limb cover. (you can change into
shorts once we are out of the villages).
Currency: Moroccan
Dirhams can be obtained in Marrakech (£1=approx 15 DHS), but the banks
will not accept Scottish or Irish bank notes. There are plenty of ATMs in the
city.
Mobile reception: Good in Marrakech, some reception in Ait
Bouguemez, but generally poor in the mountains.
Back
to the location menu?
South
Africa
Low Intermediate Kruger Trip,
Mpumalanga
For this trip which includes
6 nights in the famous Kruger National park we will stay in 4 different places.
The holiday is 14 days long in total, and 12 of the nights are spent in South
Africa (with the other 2 nights being spent flying overnight to and from
Johannesburg).
Nights 1-5: Graskop Log Cabin
village, Graskop
 The Log Cabin Village is situated in the sleepy village
of Graskop, convenient for eating out on some nights, visiting the shops, and
enjoying this historic mining village.
The Log Cabin Village offers
self-contained chalets constructed from logs with two bedrooms - offering one
single room and one twin room each. In addition, the Village has a small
swimming pool and a lapa (entertainment area). 
Each chalet has a bathroom; a
lounge with colour TV, heater and safe; open plan fully equiped kitchen, patio
with a braai area (barbeque). All linen, bath towels, and hand towels are
supplied and the chalets are fully serviced daily.
http://www.logcabin.co.za/
Single supplement:
£10 a night
Nights 6-8: Satara, Kruger - Rudy
Frankel & Stanley G/Hs
  From Graskop we will drive to Satara rest camp in the Kruger
National Park. Satara Camp can accommodate up to 400 visitors and is the third
biggest rest camp in the Park. Satara Camp is often referred to as the 'cat
camp' because it is one of the best spots for viewing Lion, Leopard and
Cheetah.
The big cats prey on the vast
herds of antelope that are attracted by the fertile grazing land in the
area.
Satara Camp's facilities
include a large shop, cafeteria, restaurant, fuel station and laundrette. There
is also an open air theatre where wildlife documentaries are shown.
Our accommodation here will
be in 2 very comfortable guest houses - the nicest accommodation of the trip:
Rudy Frankel G/H and Stanley G/H, located near to each other on one side of the
camp. (Put you mouse on each photo to see which G/H it is of). 
These guesthouse offer more
privacy and considerably more comfort than the usual bungalow/hut accommodation
available.
They both have air
conditioning, and in addition - which is why we are so excited at having
managed to book them - they both have verandahs that overlook a frequently
visited waterhole. This will give wonderful additional game viewing in the
early morning and at dusk! 
Rudy Frankel Guest
House Rudy Frankel suffered from a fire a few years ago and had been
rebuilt with all ensuite bedrooms - 5 in total - which we will use mainly for
twin occupancy. (There will be one ensuite single available here which has a
£15 a night supplement). 4 of the ensuite bathrooms have baths and
showers, the other has a shower. The guest house has a large lounge and dining
room, A fully equipped kitchen, and a large central courtyard. 
Stanley Guest House
has 3 standard bedrooms which share 2 bathrooms, and we will use these
rooms for single occupancy to minimise pressure on the bathrooms - even though
they are large bedrooms with 3 beds in each! Like Rudy Frankel, Stanley Guest
House has a beautiful large lounge/dining room, fully equiped kitchen, and
outside dining area and verandah. 
While we are here Ros and
Diana will do barbeque's or other meals on most of the evenings, with breakfast
'help youself' food available in each guest house, and packed lunch food
availaible to make up your supplies for each day's game viewing. Sometimes we
may take a packed breakfast and leave early, stopping in at one of the many
picnic areas for an outdoors breakfast after a dawn drive. 
Standard single
supplement: £10 a night
1 Ensuite single available in Rudy Frankel:
£15 a night
http://www.krugerpark.org/Kruger_Park_Camps-travel/satara-restcamp-kruger-park.html
(official San Parks w/site)
http://www.krugerpark-direct.com/satara/satara-rest-camp (scroll down for Stanley & R. Frankel guest houses in left hand
menu, & click 'See all pictures')
Nights 9-11: Lower Sabie, Kruger -
Bungalows
  For the 2nd half of our time in the Kruger National
Park we drive south to Lower Sabie camp, where we will stay in single and twin
bungalows on the edge of the camp overlooking the perennial Sabie River.
Large numbers of game are
attracted to the abundance of water, sweet grass and foliage in the vicinity of
Lower Sabie Restcamp, giving rise to a diversity of game, almost unequalled
anywhere else in the Park. The area is also rich in Lion, Cheetah, Elephant,
Hippopotamus, Rhino, herds of Buffalo up to 800 strong, and is known for its
high density of Warthog. 
The licensed camp restaurant
here overlooks the Sabie River with wonderful views towards the Lebombo
Mountains beyond. We will probably here on 2 of the evenings. Lower Sabie camp
also has a swimming pool - a recent addition. This is one of the oldest camps
and is slowly being upgraded. 
Our bungalows will be grouped
together along the perimeter of the camp overlooking the river - 8 bungalows in
total, each with 2 single beds, that we will use for twin and single occupancy.
Each of the bungalows has its own bathroom, small kitchen area, air
conditioning + ceiling fan, and verandah from which we can watch game come down
to the water (don't forget your binoculars!)
http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_National_Park_Lodging_&_Camping_Guide-travel/lower-sabie-camp.html
Ensuite single supplement
£10 a night
Nights 12: Bergwaters Eco Lodge,
Waterval Onder
 On our way back to
Johannesburg, we will break our trip with a night at Bergwaters Eco Lodge.
Bergwaters is a beautiful peaceful retreat situated in a secluded valley
flanked by sheer cliff-faces, where eagles nest and crystal clear streams
trickle through natural forests and nurtured gardens. Family owned and managed,
Bergwaters offers luxury accommodation and meals, and is renowned for its
tranquil atmosphere.
Here we will stay in chalets
with ensuite twin and ensuite single rooms. The chalets all have air
conditioning and TV. We can enjoy an evening meal at the Lodge's "Five Owls"
restaurant, and in the morning we will have our breakfast on the veranda
overlooking the pool. 
We will spend a relaxing
morning here before we complete our drive to Johannesburg airport, with time
for a relaxing strol in the gardens or along the clear waters of the Joubert
stream, which boasts lovely secluded rock pools. (There is also a tennis court,
squash court, gym with sauna, pool table and a dartboard). Before leaving we
have an early lunch at the lodge. http://www.bergwaters.co.za/ 
Ensuite single
supplement: £10 a night.
The holiday price includes
all breakfasts, 11 packed lunches; 7 evening meals. (Not included: drinks, last
lunch at Bergwaters, & 5 evening meals in Graskop or Kruger restaurants -
from £12).
Back to the location menu?
Nepal
Intermediate Nepal
Hotel Thamel -
Kathmandu
Hotel Thamel is a comfortable
and very friendly two star hotel on a quiet side street in the bustling Thamel
district of Kathmandu - where all the restaurants and small shops are to be
found. It offers ensuite twin bedrooms with 24 hour hot and cold water, TV,
direct dial telephone, air-conditioning, and a private balcony. From the roof
'garden' you can gain a panoramic view of the Himalaya. You may also see the
mountains of Ganesh Himal (7130 m), Langtang (7246 m), and Sisapangma (8013 m).
Downstairs is the small dining rooms where delicious breakfasts are served.
There are small lock up boxes safely near reception should you want to leave
any valuables here while away on trek (eg. passport & flight
ticket).
Base Camp Resort,
Pokhara 
Nestled in the lap of mighty
Fishtail and Annapurna mountain range, Pokhara is probably one of the 'most
beautiful valleys on earth. The diverse natural beauty, snow topped mountains,
live culture and lush green forest, gushing rivers, pristine lakes, gorges and
of course the tantalizing mountains have knitted the city as an enchanting
paradise'. 
Base Camp Resort is a
tranquil and friendly small hotel surrounded by gardens next to beautiful
Fish-Tail lake. The twin bedrooms all have ensuite bathrooms, a minibar and TV,
and most have mountain views. From the rooftop of the hotel we should have
breathtaking views of Fishtail mountain, Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,172m), the Annapurna
range, Manslu and other mountains. Base Camp Resort is within walking distance
of the centre of Pokhara. Its other facilities include safe deposit lockers,
sports facilities, and Internet access for the use of guests.
http://www.basecampresort.com/
 Tea Houses on the
trek
The tea houses we will stay
in Nargakot and on our 7 day trek in the Annapurna region will be simple but
clean, and of a relatively good standard compared to those in the higher
mountains. 
This means that they will
have filtered water available, and proper toilets in most cases (though there
may be a few squat toilets the higher we go). Usually there will be electricity
- including hopefully at Tadapani where we contributed towards their
electricity project last year! The bedrooms are simple, with beds rather than
bunks, usually twin or 3-bedded rooms shared only with members of the group.
The food is varied and tasty, and mainly vegetarian: Dhal Bat (lentils &
rice), dishes with potato and vegetables, egg, noodles, cheese. And the tea is
plentiful (black tea, peppermint, ginger - and we'll stop for tea at other tea
houses along the way....!)
Singles? There will be one
single that we rotate through the group from day to day.
Currency:
Nepali Rupee, but you can also change US Dollars in Kathmandu or
Sterling.
Mobile reception: often iffy except in Kathmandu. Check
with your network if you will have reception even there - and the price of
calls and texts! Back to the location menu?
|
Glenthorne Guest House is a very comfortable and friendly place
to stay, and is hugely popular with WalkingWomen groups. Glenthorne serves
excellent food with choice of 2-3 dishes at each course, including a delicious
vegetarian option. The guest house also has a table licence. There's also a
tradition of free tea and cakes after walking - or you can help yourself to tea
or coffee at any time.
The Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel offers a good
mix of twins, doubles and singles, some of which are ensuite while others are
standard but with a washbasin in the bedroom and a bathroom near. Practically
all the rooms have lovely views, tea/coffee making facilities, and are
attractively decorated. Downstairs there is a residents' dining room, a
residents' bar, and a large lounge with plenty of sofas and comfortable
armchairs to sink into at the end of the day! The Hikers Bar and outdoor
terrace is usually very popular with WW groups - gathering for a refreshing
drink after a walk, or sitting out in the evening if the weather is fine.
The Howe Keld is a small family run hotel, situated in the 'Heads' -
the area of Keswick nearest to the lake. The hotel has been recently
refurbished and upgraded and the bedrooms are delightful, all with ensuite
facilities and TV and tea/coffee making facilities. Downstairs is the breakfast
room and a small bar/lounge. 
Glaramara Centre has a
wonderful setting at the head of Borrowdale on the outskirts of tiny Seatoller
hamlet - a location that has ensured its popularity as a walking centre for
many years. It has lovely views up Borrowdale's tributary valley of Seathwaite
and across to Glaramara - hence the name. A bonus feature is that we can book
up to 22 standard singles without a supplement! This allows us to run either
one group or two simultaneously with everyone enjoying the comfort of a single
room. The décor is simple, and none of the rooms have ensuite
facilities; however everywhere is very clean and there is no shortage of hot
water. Downstairs there is a large lounge and a separate bar - both with snug
log fires, a dining room, a small TV & Games room, and an efficient drying
room. Sometimes we will share the centre with another group - other walkers and
even previously some country dancers and felt-makers! 
Littletown Farm is a traditional
working Lakeland farm 4 miles from Keswick in the beautiful, unspoilt Newlands
valley. The farmhouse is in a unique location nestled at the foot of Catbells
and was the inspiration behind Beatrix Potters Mrs Tiggy Winkle stories.
Night 1: St Bees (Cumbria -
west coast) 
Night 3: Borrowdale (14
miles)(Lake District)
Night 5: Patterdale (9 miles)(Lake District)
Night 7: Kirkby Stephen (20
miles)(Eden Valley) 
Night 9: Reeth (11
miles)(Yorkshire Dales)
Night 12: Osmotherley (10
miles)(North York Moors) 
Night 14: Glaisdale (17 miles)(North York
Moors)
Night 15: Robin Hoods Bay (20 miles)(North
York Moors - east coast)
For our 2009 holiday in Rothbury we are
moving to the Coquetvale Hotel - representing an increase in comfort and
facilities from our previous accommodation. 
The Twice Brewed Inn is set amongst
some of the most breathtaking scenery in England and stands in the shadows of
Steel Rigg, without doubt one of the most dramatic parts of Hadrian's Wall. The
rooms are simply furnished, but all have tea and coffee making facilities.
There are views of Steel Rigg to the front and side and the fells at the rear
of the Inn. There are ensuite twin rooms, and plenty of standard twin or double
rooms that we can take as singles (Single supplement £10 a night).
The Sunningdale Hotel is
family owned, and offers comfortable, good quality and value accommodation in
the beautiful coastal village of Bamburgh. The hotel's 21 bedrooms have ensuite
facilities and were extensivel refurbished 2 years ago. The rooms all have TV
and tea/coffee making facilities, and superb views of the castle and coast,
Bamburgh village, or stunning country landscape (Ensuite single supplement
£12.50 a night).
High Trenhouse has a
beautiful upland setting near to Malham Tarn. Just to step outside the door is
to be in the hills. The air is clean and pure, there is no sound of traffic and
no light pollution. 
Hebden House is the residential wing of the
Birchcliffe Centre and is situated on the hillside above the picturesque town
of Hebden Bridge. Set in two acres of woodland, Hebden House offers a peaceful
and secluded setting. Usually the centre is used for training courses, but it
is also a great base for walking in the surrounding landscape of the South
Pennines.
Losehill Hall just outside
Castleton is set in 27 acres of magnificent parkland, and is a beautiful
tranquil place to stay in the heart of the Peak District National Park. We feel
very lucky to be able to stay at Losehill when it is normally reserved for
courses and conferences as the the Peak District Park Study Centre. (Losehill
sleeps up to 57 people, and will be other people staying there also).
Our accommodation at Hartington is in
ensuite singles, twins, and one triple bedroom with private facilities at the
exceptionally comfortable 4* Hartington Hall youth hostel. Hartington Hall is a
magnificent 17th century manor house with log fires, oak paneling, excellent
food, and a bedroom where Bonnie Prince Charlie once slept. Hartington village
is easily reached by bus from both Buxton and Matlock stations. You can arrive
at any time of day, and there can be an extra walk on Friday if you arrive by
1pm. Evening meals are served from 6-10pm, but we will aim to eat together at
7pm. 
Hathersage Youth Hostel is a large
Victorian house, on the edge of the Derbyshire village of Hathersage associated
with Jane Eyre. Hathersage is on the White Peak Way circular walk and is
overlooked by Stanage Edge which attracts climbers of all abilities. The hostel
has all the facilities you would expect - good drying room, comfy lounge and
common room (and separate tv lounge, dormitory bedrooms. The hostel also has a
garden. 
Mynd House lies at the foot of the Long
Mynd in the unspoilt village of Little Stretton - 1 mile by taxi from Church
Stretton station. 
The Cleeve Hill Hotel is a family-run hotel
situated close to the top of Cleeve Hill, which is the highest point in the
Cotswolds and commands exceptional views across Cheltenham to the Malvern
Hills. 
Once an old coaching inn, The Ship Inn boasts a long and interesting
history, although its appearance hasn't changed much over the years. Until the
sea reclaimed most of the town during medieval times, Dunwich was one of the
busiest East coastal ports in the UK. Today the considerably smaller village is
lined with delightful period buildings, a church and the ruins of an old
monastery. 
For convenient access to the Thames
Path we will be based at the recently built Windsor Travelodge, located near
both Windsor train stations and not far from the banks of the Thames.
The Horse & Groom is an attractively
renovated 17th century country pub located in the village of East Ashling on
the edge of the Downs. The pub has traditional flint walls and old timber
beams. Mike and Michelle have also renovated the old flint barn adjacent to the
pub as a very attractive bedroom annex full of original features and roof
beams. These 11 ensuite bedrooms (some with bath, some with shower) can all be
taken as single rooms without a supplement. Each has a colour TV, and
tea/coffee making facilities. 
Catriona and Alistair Miller run Cromwell
House Hotel with a small dedicated staff who aim to create a friendly
atmosphere in the style of a small Country House. The unique position of the
house with its outstanding views, goes a long way to creating the peaceful
atmosphere their guests enjoy. Cromwell House also has a swimming pool - so do
bring your swimming costume!
The Chy an Albany Hotel in St Ives occupies a wonderfully elevated
site overlooking St Ives Bay, providing accommodation with every comfort and
amenity you'd expect from an award winning 3 star hotel. 
The hotel restaurant also overlooks this lovely view, and serves
excellent evening meals cooked from the finest local vegetables and produce,
and fish straight from the sea. 
Downstairs there is a comfortable lounge,
the dining room and bar overlooking the sea, an outside terrace for soaking in
the view.
Tuke House is the name given to Falmouth
College of Art student residences built in 1998 conveniently in Falmouth close
to the centre and the waterfront. Tuke House consists of eleven 2-3 storey
small blocks with a cluster of 5 ensuite single bedrooms on on each floor,
arranged to share a kitchen. (There is no separate lounge).
Huntstile Organic Farm
is situated in the foothills of the Quantocks close to tiny Goathurst village,
approximately 3 miles from Bridgewater down twisty country lanes. Parts of the
farmhouse date back to Henry VIII and there the farm is rumoured to have a
resident lady ghost, although Lizzie and John have never see her themselves!
This holiday is based at the
comfortable 3 star Saints Bay Hotel on Guernsey. The hotel is situated on the
south coast cliffs at Icart Point, an unspoilt headland on the most southerly
tip of Guernsey. The scenery from the immediately adjacent cliff paths is
amongst the most stunning in the Channel Islands. Close by is picturesque
Saints Bay - a small fisherman's harbour at the foot of the cliffs below the
hotel just a short walk away. The hotel has a outdoor pool that is heated from
Easter, a large pool side patio and bar, a light and airy restaurant, and an
indoor split level bar warmed by a coal fire in the early months of the year.
In 2009 we are moving our Wye Valley
accommodation to the 3 star Royal George Hotel, a Best Western hotel. The Royal
George is situated in the heart of the Wye Valley, 200m from Tintern Abbey in
Tintern village, with easy access from the M4 and M5, or the mainline train
station at Chepstow. 
For this holiday we will stay
throughout at East Trewent Farm East belonging to Pat and Peter Sherwood. The
farm nestles behind Trewent Point and is within the Pembrokeshire National Park
just half a mile from Freshwater East beach and the challenging Pembrokeshire
Coastal Footpath. Built around 200 years ago, East Trewent Farm stands in just
over an acre of land and is an attractive stone farmhouse with out-buildings
(one dating back to 15th century), tastefully converted to form three
comfortable cottages adjoining the farm. 
Nights 1 & 2: Dale Fort Field Centre
Nights 3 & 4: Broad Haven
YH
Night 5: Eco Hotel 
The Nantlle Valley lies north of Beddgelert, at right
angles to the western face of Snowdon. It is a beautiful peaceful valley away
from the crowds on Snowdon's more popular paths. Trigonos Centre is situated
half way through Nantlle village on the only road through the valley. The
centre is set in its own grounds facing Nantlle lake and the striking Nantlle
ridge. 
We have found a new
accommodation for the first night of this holiday - staying at the friendly Dol
Peris Hotel which offers all ensuite rooms sleeping 2-4 people. The hotel is a
grade 2 listed building built in the 1890s. It is conveniently located in the
centre of Llanberis, set in its own grounds with ample off road parking. The
hotel has a cosy lounge and a cheery breakfast room. 
Due to popular demand from
previous years, we have steadily upgraded the accommodation on this holiday to
include more hotels & inns rather than B&Bs & hostels. There is
only one night in a very special bunkhouse (a beautifully converted railway
station at Bridge of Orchy). For the most part you will be sharing mostly
ensuite twins or 3-bedded rooms with other members of the group. 
We start our trek after a first night at
the Hawthornes B&B in Drymen. The Hawthorns was built in 1873 by the Duke
of Montrose to attract a doctor to the village of Drymen, and for over 120
years it was home to four successive general practitioners. The property has
been extensively restored in recent years to convert the 'Auld Doctor's Hoose'
into a superior quality bed and breakfast. All of the rooms are attractively
decorated and finished to a high standard, with en-suite facilities, colour
satellite television and tea and coffee-making facilities. In the morning a
traditional Scottish breakfast is served in the dining room. (Rooms taken here
are twins & 3-bedded rooms).
Situated on the rugged eastern banks of
Loch Lomond in the magnificent Queen Elizabeth Forest the Rowardennan Hotel has
breathtaking views of Ben Lomond, Loch Lomond and the mountains to the North.
The hotel dates back to 1696 but has been fully refurbished in a traditional
Scottish style with a country house hotel atmosphere. The bedrooms are
comfortable and all have ensuite facilities. (Rooms taken here are 3-bedded
& twin rooms).
The Drovers Inn is on old inn used by the Highland drovers who used
to drive their cattle down the side of Loch Lomond to the markets. The decor
and furniture, in deference to the past, look as though they have not been
changed or altered for a couple of hundred years. The rooms here however are
comfortable twin rooms, most of them with ensuite facilities. In the evening we
will most likely eat at the Drovers too - where previous years groups have
praised the cooking. (Twin rooms - all but one have ensuite facilities).
The Invervey Hotel is a comfortable small
hotel conveniently near the Way in Tyndrum, with ensuite twin rooms (each with
TV and tea/coffee making). 
The hotel has a bar and restaurant,
where we will most likely eat in the evening. There is also a laundry service
if needed. (Rooms taken here are all ensuite twin rooms).
The Inveroran Hotel which we
are using for our 2009 bookings, was built in the 19th century as a coaching
inn. 
King's House Hotel is in a
very remote situation, with magnificent views of the hills. It was built to
serve the drovers' trade in the 17th century, and is one of Scotland's oldest
licensed inns. The building was used after the Battle of Culloden (1745), as a
barracks for troops of George III, hence the name Kings House. It was the task
to keep the Highlanders under subjection and to capture their elusive champion
Bonnie Prince Charlie (there's lots more history - see their website!) With
full central heating and the double glazing and the high standard of cuisine
your modern day comfort is assured. The accommodation however is simple - in
3-bedded rooms - but the views from the hotel include Buchaille Etive Mhor -
probably Scotland's most photographed mountain. We will also eat here in the
evening as there is no where else to stay along this stretch! (Rooms taken here
are 3-bedded rooms and 1 twin).
The Tailrace Inn,
Kinlochleven
The Alexandra Hotel has been
part of the fabric of Fort William since 1876. The hotel boasts a lift to the
bedrooms for weary walkers, 2 restaurants, many refurbished rooms, and free
membership of the nearby Ben Nevis Leisure club if you fancy a relaxing swim.
Kinloch Castle: Rum is an island off the west coast of
Scotland opposite Mallaig. Here we'll be staying at the Kinloch Castle hostel -
one of the only places to stay on the island. The accommodation is in
dormitories, and we will take our breakfasts and evening meals at the castle
bistro (all included). A visit round eccentric Kinloch Castle is usually
possible - and well worth it, says Fran! 
Mull is an island of the west coast of
Scotland opposite Oban. Here we will be staying at Ardachy House Hotel - a
small hotel owned by Cathy and Maggie, set in typical farmland south of the
village of Bunessan. This is truely a peaceful setting, and the hotel looks
south over the deserted sands of Ardalanish Bay and beyond to the Hebridean
Islands of Jura, Colonsay and Islay. On a clear day you can see the coast of
Ireland. 
The Barons Craig hotel has a dramatic
location in the village of Rockcliffe in the southwest of Scotland, standing it
its own grounds overlooking the Solway Firth. It is an impressive Victorian
hotel with 23 ensuite rooms, many period features, and lovely grounds to stroll
through a few minutes walk from the sea. 
Rosie Jeffries or Sarah Burt. The Lake District Map is