Places we stay in the UK and Abroad.WalkingWomen
----Accommodation




What's on this page?

  • Location Menu - of the places we stay - UK - Abroad
    Click any location to reach more details & photos of where we stay.
    (You can access this same information from each holiday description - may need to temporarily de-activate your Pop-up Blocker).
  • Accommodation Details
    These are the details that the menu links to, starting with the UK accommodations, then the foreign accommodations.

Common features of where we stay

We choose places to stay that are all well-located for the walks and scenery, that have a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, and that give you value for money whatever their category.

All of them can cope well with vegetarian food and special diets (given notice - though if you are gluten or wheat free, you may need to bring your preferred bread-substitute with you for packed lunches in case your particular preference is not available locally).

Location Menu



Lake District

See Lake District Map?

Glenthorne Guest House, Grasmere, Lakes

Glenthorne Guest House on Easedale Rd in Grasmere.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.

View from Glenthorne garden - in one direction!

Glenthorne is located 4 mins walk up Easedale Rd from the 2nd bus stop in the centre of Grasmere. It has a large garden with lovely views in three directions, a sizeable lounge with a new conservatory leading off it, a separate table tennis room (where we can have tables for map reading holidays), and plenty of parking. The bedrooms we take are ensuite twins and standard or ensuite singles, all with tea/coffee making facilities (£10 a night supplement for ensuite singles. No supplement for standard singles). Glenthorne Guest House is Quaker owned.

All holidays here are priced on a full board basis including breakfast, packed lunches, and evening meals. You can arrive from 2pm. Evening meal at 7pm.
Extra nights: £52.50 full board.
Ensuite single supplement: £10 a night

See their website for more photos?
http://www.glenthorne.org/property.htm

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Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, Gt. Langdale, Lakes

Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, Great Langdale.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.

Holidays here are priced on a full board basis and our meals will be served in the hotel dining room. For this year's holidays we have reserved all the bedrooms at the hotel and will have sole use of the hotel. Supplements per night: Standard single £5; Std double as a single: £10. Ensuite double as a single: £15. Dogs are allowed. You can usually get into your room from 2pm. Evening meal is at 7pm.

Single suppl: £10 a night.
Extra nights full board with bar meal: £60.00 (i.e not dining room meal).

See their website for more photos?
http://www.odg.co.uk/

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The White Lion Inn, Patterdale, Lakes

The White Lion Inn in Patterdale village.The White Lion Inn is a striking black and white building opposite the post office in the centre of Patterdale's small village. It used to be a coaching inn and has an interesting history, e.g. Wordsworth was staying here when he heard the news of Nelson's demise at the Battle of Trafalgar. More recently it has become the haunt of walkers, its friendly atmosphere and generous helpings of good pub grub are particularly welcoming at the end of the day. Its bedrooms are all ensuite or have private facilities, each with TV and tea/coffee making facilities.

Holidays here are priced on a part board basis: we'll eat breakfast in the resident's part of the bar, take packed lunches out walking as usual, and then choose from Rita Dawes' good range of bar meals - and real ale - in the evening (not included - from £12). At the White Lion, we socialise in the bar in the evening as there is no separate residents' lounge. We'll aim to order dinner at around 6.30/7.00pm on the first night. Dogs are allowed: £3 a night.

http://www.coast2coast.co.uk/thewhitelioninn/
Extra B&B nights without packed lunch: £42.00
Single supplement: £10 a night

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Howe Keld Lakeland Hotel, Keswick, Lakes

The Howe Keld Lakeland Hotel.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.

Howe Keld Hotel.The speciality of the hotel is its vegetarian food (David and Valerie used to work for Cranks - the wholefood restaurant). Weekend breaks here are priced on a full board basis with evening meals included (Dinner time: 6.30pm). 4-night breaks are priced on a part board basis, with delicious breakfasts, and packed lunches only. In the evening we'll go out to sample some of Keswick's other good eating places (not included - from £12). To keep things simple on the first night WW will prebook a table at a restaurant that has proved popular in the past. It will help if you can arrive by 6.30pm on all breaks based here.

The hotel has good parking, or is only 4 minutes walk from the main Keswick bus stop. You can arrive from 2pm. Well-behaved dogs are allowed.

Single Supplement. £10 a night.
Extra B&B nights without packed lunch: £40

See their website for more photos?
http://www.howekeld.co.uk/

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Glaramara Centre, Borrowdale, Lakes

Glaramara Centre, near Seatoller in Borrowdale. 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!

Holidays here are priced on a full board basis and are very good value, with a choice of evening meals all made from fresh ingredients. You can arrive from 2pm. Evening meal is at 7pm.

Extra nights: £46.00 full board.
No single supplement payable.

See their website for more photos?
http://www.glaramara.co.uk/accommodation/

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Littletown Farm in Newlands Valley

Little Town Farm B&BLittletown 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.

View from the garden.


The beautiful Northern fells surround the accommodation providing spectacular scenery and tranquility. From the farm there is direct access to the fells, and Maiden Moor, Dalehead, Robinson and Causey Pike are all within easy walking distance.

Little Town Farm from Cat Bells.

The farmhouse has a licensed bar, large dining room, comfortable TV lounge and large enclosed garden (there is also free wi-fi access).

Most of the 8 cottage bedrooms have ensuite or private facilities, and each has its own stunning view looking directly onto the fells. There are tea & coffee making facilities in all the rooms, and tea and cake can be arranged after walking. In the evening Sarah will cook us good freshly prepared meals served in the farmhouse dining room.

Holidays here are priced on a full board basis, including breakfasts and packed lunches, and good home cooked evening meals.
Single supplement £10 a night.
Extra B&B night: £46 (i.e not including packed lunch).

See their website for more photos?
www.littletownfarm.co.uk/

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Coast to Coast walk

15 nights, 14 days walking - with days of different length. Sometimes this is because the shorter days have more 'up', sometimes it is simply dependant on the accommodation available for a group. On some nights the only solution is to use 2-3 nearby B&Bs or inns! For more information about each accommodation, please follow the links given.

Evening meals are included on all the youth hostel nights. Breakfasts & packed lunches, luggage transport, & support vehicle are included on all days. Any single rooms will be shared out over the trip - everyone should get at least 1 night in a single room.

  • Stonehouse Farm - St Bees.Night 1: St Bees (Cumbria - west coast)
    Stonehouse Farm: Near the station, Sleeping in 1-3 bedded ensuite rooms (mostly twins)
    http://www.stonehousefarm.net/
  • Night 2: Ennerdale (14 miles)(Lake District)
    Ennerdale Youth Hostel: dormitories shared with other members of the group.
    http://www.yha.org.uk/
  • Borrowdale YHNight 3: Borrowdale (14 miles)(Lake District)
    Borrowdale Youth Hostel: dormitories shared with other members of the group.
    http://www.yha.org.uk/
  • Night 4: Grasmere (9 miles)(Lake District)
    Thorney How Youth Hostel: dormitories shared with other members of the group.
    http://www.yha.org.uk/
  • Helvellyn YHNight 5: Patterdale (9 miles)(Lake District)
    Helvellyn Youth Hostel: dormitories shared with other members of the group.
    http://www.yha.org.uk/
  • Night 6: Shap (18 miles)(Eden Valley)
    Fell House: 1-4 bedded rooms (only 1 ensuite - but lovely building, recently refurbished)
    http://www.fellhouse.com/
  • The Buck Hotel, Reeth. Night 9: Reeth (11 miles)(Yorkshire Dales)
    The Buck Hotel: 1-3 bedded rooms (mostly twins - all rooms are ensuite)
    http://www.buckhotel.co.uk/
  • Night 13: Chop Gate (13 miles)Gt Broughton (North York Moors)
    The Buck Inn: 1-2 bedded rooms (all ensuite)
    http://www.buck-inn.co.uk/
    West Cote B&B: a standard single & a standard twin (no website)
  • Boggle Hole room. Night 15: Robin Hoods Bay (20 miles)(North York Moors - east coast)
    Boggle Hole Youth Hostel (1 mile along the coast): dormitories shared with other members of the group.
    http://www.yha.org.uk/
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Northumberland

The Coquetvale Hotel, Rothbury, Coquetdale

Coquetvale Hotel.For our 2009 holiday in Rothbury we are moving to the Coquetvale Hotel - representing an increase in comfort and facilities from our previous accommodation.



Fire in the lounge.

The Coquetvale offers 10 spacious good quality bedrooms all en suite with baths, colour TV and tea and coffee making facilities. For this holiday we are taking all the rooms at the hotel so there will be mostly ensuite single rooms available (Ensuite single supplement £12.50 a night).

Beautiful dining room.

The hotel facilities include a popular Italian style restaurant open to the public which WW groups have visited by preference since we started staying in Rothbury. The hotel also has an attractive bar and lounge, called the Q Bar, and other hotel facilities will include a walkers drying room by the time we stay here in March 2009!

Single supplement: £12.50 a night
Extra B&B nights: £55.00

See their website for more photos?
http://www.coquetvale.co.uk/

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Hadrians Wall

Once Brewed Youth Hostel

Once Brewed youth hostel.This purpose-built hostel is located just half a mile from the most spectacular section of Hadrians Wall. Being two miles north of Bardon Mill, it’s also within easy walking distance of Vindolanda, where you can see how the Romans lived, and Housesteads Fort, the most complete Roman fort in Britain. The hostel is located right next to the Hadrians Wall Visitors Centre.

The hostel sleeps 77 in total (we have reserved 2 x 6-bedded rooms with bunk beds), with plenty of showers and hot water, a lounge, dining room, and games room, a drying room, and garden. The hostel opening hours are 08.00 - 10.00 hrs, and 14.00 - 22.00 hrs, so the only time you can't get into your room on the first day is between 10am and 2pm. (Don't forget to help yourself to a free cuppa in the members kitchen!) This holiday is priced on a full board basis including breakfasts, packed lunches, and evening meals at the hostel. The Once Brewed pub is just down the road if we want to stroll out for a drink in the evening.

Extra nights: £34.55 a night

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Yorkshire Dales

High Trenhouse - Malham Cove, Yorkshire Dales

High Trenhouse near Malham Tarn.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. The centre consists of two large adjacent old farm buildings which have been lovingly restored by the owners, John and Bernadette. The buildings are set in landscaped grounds looking out towards the tarn, and from the bedrooms there are views of the garden, the tarn, or the surrounding Dales. All the bedrooms are very attractively decorated. Most of them have ensuite facilities, and many are ensuite singles - always a popular feature! In addition the centre has a sauna and Jacuzzi for our use - Bennets - one of the centres buildings.so bring your swimsuit. There is a bar (on an 'honesty' system), a dining room serving excellent meals, a lounge and other spaces for relaxing - including a small terrace outside in the garden. For this holiday we will have sole use of the centre, its bedrooms and all its facilities - perfect for the needs of a double group with two walks on offer each day. You can arrive from 2pm. Dinner is at 7pm. (No extra nights are possible here as the centre only caters for group stays).

Single supplement: £10 a night

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The Crown Hotel, Horton-in-Ribblesdale, Dales

Crown Hotel bedroom.The Crown Hotel is situated in the beautiful Ribble Valley and is one of the few hotels in the Yorkshire Dales National Park which actually stands on the Pennine Way. It is centrally located amid the Yorkshire Three Peaks: Pen-y-Ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside. For this holiday we have booked ensuite twin and ensuite single rooms at the hotel.

The bar at the Crown Hotel.There are tea & coffee making facilities in the rooms, and downstairs there is a welcoming bar, and outside there's a beer garden to the rear of the hotel. The dining room serves a good range of inexpensive dishes, or we can go out to sample other eating places in the village. The hotel is located across the river from the Horton railway station between Horton's two hump back bridges, and has its own car park for residents'. To keep things simple we've pre-booked a table at the hotel for 7pm on the first evening. You can arrive from 2pm.
http://www.crown-hotel.co.uk/

Extra nights: £35-£40 B&B depending on room
Single Supplement: £10 a night.

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Ingleton YH - Climbing Break

Ingleton YHIngleton YH is a recently renovated Victorian House close to the centre of Ingleton village. It is popular with walkers, climbers, and cavers, and there is an outdoor swimming pool in the village nearby. The hostel sleeps 58 in 4-6 bedded rooms, and has all the normal YHA facilities of a good drying room, lounge, dining room, and self-catering kitchen (help yourself to a free welcome cuppa when you arrive). The Inglesport Climbing Wall is a short walk away. The hostel is open all day, so you can arrive at any time, though you may not be able to get into the bedrooms until reception opens at 5pm. Holidays here are priced on a full board basis, including breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals - at 7pm.

Extra nights: £38.55 full board

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Peak District

Losehill Hall, Peak District

Losehill Hall from the drive.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).

One of the ensuite single bedrooms.

Losehill hall has some lovely accommodation, both in the main hall and the adjacent annex. single bedrooms are not large, however they all have ensuite facilities without - paying a single supplement!

Gathering in the lounge.


Besides the seminar rooms used by courses, there is a lovely big lounge with a log fire, and good sized dining room, and a small bar.

Losehill Hall from the garden.


Losehill has recently won an award as an eco centre - guests being encouraged to help reduce environmental impact: there are showers instead of baths and dual flush toilets to reduce water use, a communal television to reduce the amount of energy used, heating using individually controlled radiators, meal choices given ahead of time to reduce kitchen waste, and communal tea/coffee facilities to reduce use of pre-packed sachets. Holidays here are priced on a full board basis including breakfast, packed lunches, and evening meals. You can arrive by 2pm. Dinner is at 7pm.

Extra nights are best arranged at nearby Bargate Cottage B&B: £54 B&B
No single supplement to pay!

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Hartington Hall YH, Derbyshire

Hartington Hall youth hostelOur 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.
http://www.yha.org.uk/hostel/hostelpages/53.html

Extra full board nights: £42.45

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Shropshire

Mynd House, Little Stretton

Mynd HouseMynd House lies at the foot of the Long Mynd in the unspoilt village of Little Stretton - 1 mile by taxi from Church Stretton station.

View from one of the bedrooms.

It is an Edwardian house built at the turn of the century, and provides 7 spacious en-suite bedrooms with stunning views of the surrounding Shropshire hills - all of which we have reserved for this holiday.

One of the double rooms we will take as singles.

All of the bedrooms are named after the local hills, and all are good-sized and beautifully decorated, each with a unique character. Most of the rooms have double beds that we will be taking for single occupancy.

Twin that forms part of the 2nd floor suite.

All have ensuite facilities except for the 2 rooms that form a suite taking up the whole of the 2nd floor - a large twin and a large double taken as a single - which have a separate dressing room, a fridge, a sofa in the double room, and great views out towards Ragleth hill. These 2 rooms share a bathroom (with spa bath) between them and would particularly suit 3 friends.

All the bedrooms have remote control televisions, tea and coffee making facilities, local bottled water, adjustable central heating, heated towel rails and hair dryers. Some rooms also have fridges with fresh milk supplied, and they do supply fresh milk for other rooms on request.

Lounge.

Downstairs there is a comfortable lounge with a small bar, a good sized dining room for breakfasts and where we will eat on the first 2 nights (on the last night we will go out to eat in the village - not included, from £12).

http://www.myndhouse.com/

Ensuite Single supplement: £10 a night
Extra nights: £45 a night B&B

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Heart of England

Cleeve Hill Hotel, Cotswolds

Part of the lounge.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.

Breakfast conservatory.




The hotel is beautifully decorated - with an attractive lounge and breakfast conservatory downstairs where delicious breakfasts are served. There is also a bar available to residents offering a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

One of the twin rooms with a sofa.

For this weekend we have reserved practically all the hotel's bedrooms: 6 ensuite double rooms that can be taken as singles (Single supplement £10 a night), and 2 very attractive and generous sized twin rooms. The bedrooms all have ensuite facilities, TV, tea/coffee making facilities, and direct dial phone with modem point. They also have fantastic views, either across Cheltenham to the Malverns or onto Cleeve Common, a stone's throw away from Cleeve Hill Golf Course and the Cotswold Way.
Single supplement £10 a night.
Extra nights: £58.00 B&B

It is worth seeing their website: http://www.cleevehill-hotel.co.uk/index.htm

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East of England

Cookes-of-Cley B&B, Cley-next-the-Sea, Norfolk

Cley windmill.Cookes of CleyCookes of Cley Guest House is a traditional flint-built house, located on the High Street in the pretty village of Cley-next-the-Sea. Well, it was once next the sea, but the shoreline moved over the years, and the Cley Nature Reserve now lies between Cley and the beach. The guest house has views to Cley marshes and the Glaven Valley, and some rooms have views of scenic Cley windmill. The village, local pubs, beach and nature reserve are all within walking distance.

One of the twin bedrooms.

All the bedrooms are attractively decorated, and have tea and coffee making facilities and TVs. Most have ensuite facilities, except for 1 twin, and 2 rooms (a twin and a double room taken as a single) that form part of an apartment with a shared sitting room, small kitchen, and shared bathroom. There are several single rooms available (Single supplement £12 a night).

Tea garden for tea and cake after walking.

This holiday is priced on a full board basis including breakfasts, packed lunches, and evening meals in the guest house diningroom on 3 evenings (on the other 2 evenings we will go out to eat in village pubs closeby - not included, £15). Outside the guest house has its own tea garden for tea and cake after walking!

http://www.cookes-of-cley.co.uk/pages/page3.php

Single supplement: £12 a night
Extra nights: £40 a night

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The Ship Inn, Dunwich, Suffolk

The Ship Inn, Dunwich.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.

Most of the bedrooms at the Ship have been recently refurbished - some at the Inn itself, and some in converted barns behind the Inn. Some have marsh views and others have sea views.




The refurbishment has maintained the traditional character of the Inn. Most of the rooms have ensuite facilities. There are 6 ensuite single rooms (£15 a night supplement); 2 standard singles, and 2 standard twin rooms.

Ship restaurant.

Holidays here are priced on a part board basis and include breakfasts and packed lunches. In the evening we can choose from the Ships tasty bar menu which features a lot of local sea food besides meat and vegetarian options.

You can arrive by 2pm. Ideally, we'll try and get everyones orders in for the evening meal by 6.30 pm. (The Ship Inn has no separate resident's lounge).

http://www.shipatdunwich.co.uk/

Extra nights: £65.00 part board in a single room
Single supplement: £15 a night.

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South of England

Windsor Travelodge

Windsor Travelodge.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 travelodge is larger than most hotels used for WW holidays, however staying here has allowed us to reserve all ensuite single rooms - something that was not possible elsewhere in Windsor. The rooms we have chosen are on the quieter top floor of the hotel away from any bar noise (the hotel has a lift). There is no single supplement to pay.

Typical Windsor bedroom.

The bedrooms are in fact all double or family rooms taken as singles. They are a good size and comfortably furnished in a modern style. They all have ensuite facilities with a bath, colour TV, and tea/coffee making facilities. You can also request a hair dryer from reception if you need one.

Typical bathroom.

Breakfast will be from a substantial buffet choice, packed lunches will be paid for by WalkingWomen from the nearby sandwich bar, and in the evening we'll go out together to sample Windsor's many good eating places (evening meals are not included - from £15).

It makes sense to travel to this holiday by train if you can. The Travelodge is very conveniently located near to Windsor & Eton Central Station. Windsor & Eton Riverside station is 5 minutes further away. There is no hotel car parking available, although there is chargeable parking available at the multi story car park adjacent to the hotel.
http://www.travelodge.co.uk/search_and_book/hotel_overview.php?hotel_id=329

No single supplement to pay
Extra nights: approx £70 a night

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The Horse & Groom, East Ashling, Sussex

Beautifully converted bedrooms in the flint barn.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.

The Horse & Groom has two very good chefs, and the menu puts an emphasis on freshly caught fish and locally grown ingredients. Breakfasts will be served in the restaurant, and we will most likely eat here in the evening as well (evening meals not included - from £15).

Holidays here are priced on a part board basis, including breakfasts and packed lunches, with evening meals not included (from £15).
Ensuite twin or single rooms without a supplement.
Extra night: £60 B&B (depending on which night of the week)

http://www.thehorseandgroomchichester.com/

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South Downs Way - Part 2, Hampshire

This holiday walking the second half of the South Downs Way stays for the first 3 nights at the Arundel Park Hotel in the small town of Arundel, and for the last 2 nights at Wetherdown Hostel near East Meon. The holiday is priced on a part board basis including breakfast and packed lunches, and includes one evening meal on the day of arrival at Wetherdown Hostel. On the other nights we will go out to eat together nearby (or eat at the Arundel Park Hotel) - not included, from £15.

The Arundel Park Hotel.1st, 2nd, & 3rd nights - Arundel Park Hotel, Arundel

The Arundel Park Hotel is located near to the railway station in the small town of Arundel. The attractive bedrooms all have ensuite facilities, tea/coffee making, controllable heating, and hairdryers. The hotel has a well-stocked bar, and dining room serving excellent meals (in case we want to eat 'in'). Outside there is a lovely garden to sit in. You can arrive by 2pm, and we be ordering dinner or going out to eat by 7.00 on the first night.
Extra night before the trek: £48.00
Single supplement for 3 nights in Arundel: £15 a night.

http://www.arundelparkhotel.co.uk/

4th & 5th nights - Wetherdown Hostel nr East Meon

Wetherdown Hostel on top of the Downs.Wetherdown Hostel is part of the Sustainability Centre, set up by the Earthworks Trust in 55 acres of woodland and natural chalk downland next the South Downs Way three miles south of the picturesque village of East Meon. As such, the hostel is situated on the top of the Downs and benefits from some of the best views in Hampshire. A warm welcome is guaranteed by Tori who runs the hostel! Check in time is at 5.30pm.

Lounge.The hostel offers small bunk-bedded rooms which we have reserved enough of for everyone to have a room to themselves. The bedrooms each have hand basins, with shared showers and toilets nearby. All linen, duvets and towels are provided. There are all the normal hostel facilities such as a drying room, self-catering kitchen for our use making cups of tea, a comfortable lounge, and a dining room serving buffet breakfasts. We will also have an evening meal here on the day of arrival after a long day's walk - a simple but tasty vegetarian meal cooked by Tori. (On the other night - our last night of the trek - we will have taxis to a good inn a few miles away).

The Sustainability Centre includes a visitors centre in case you wish to find out more about this Eco centre and the projects it runs. For example, the hostel has been refitted using sustainable building materials and boasts an integrated solar photovoltaic roof and a wood chip biomass boiler. If there is time after walking, a tour of the centre may be possible for a small extra charge (Prince Phillip visited the Sustainability Centre a couple of years ago).

http://www.earthworks-trust.com/html/hostel.html

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Cromwell House Hotel, Lulworth Cove, Dorset

Cromwell House Hotel.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!

They have spent the years since they came to the hotel steadily raising the standard. The decor is bright and cheerful with a homely feel. The twin bedrooms all have ensuite facilities, tea and coffee making, television, direct dial telephones and full central heating.

View of the garden with Lulworth Cove beyond.

All the reception rooms enjoy delightful sea views. The hotel has a comfortably furnished sitting room with TV (including satellite), and a separate bar with open fire for afternoon tea and pre-dinner drinks. Dorset cream teas with home made scones and real clotted cream are a speciality, and at dinner, there is often fresh fish on the menu.

Holidays here are priced on a full board basis, breakfast, packed lunch, and evening meals. Well-behaved dogs are allowed. You can arrive by 2pm. Evening meal is at 7pm.
http://www.lulworthcove.co.uk

Extra nights: £70.00 full board
Single supplement: £10 a night.

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Sandpipers Hotel, Freshwater Bay, IOW

Sandpipers HotelBuilt in the 1860's, Sandpipers is a spacious, elegant Victorian family hotel, nestling in a sheltered spot just 50 yards from the shoreline of Freshwater Bay. The dining room is a large and beautifully decorated conservatory and the hotel chef's is renowned throughout the Island for his aga-cooked dishes and fabulous breakfasts. The menu is changed daily and incorporates fresh local produce whenever possible. 'Homemade really does mean homemade', and there is also an extensive wine list.

The dining room - a conservatory.

The Fat Cat Bar is a CAMRA award winning bar - and is in fact made up of 3 different bars each with their own character: the Snug has a cosy feel, the Green Slate Bar is the hub of the local community, and the Pool Room is a games room with pool table, dartboard, music and television. In addition there is always the Hotel Bar, and a comfortable lounge which also contains a small library. Lots of spaces for us to explore and enjoy when not walking!

One of the bedrooms.Another bedroom.

The bedrooms each have their own character. Some are more modern in the new annex, some are older with possibly more charm in the main hotel. All have ensuite facilities, tea/coffee, phone and TV. Some have sea views while others on Coastguard Lane look offer views of charming cottages & Victorian houses.

Holidays here are priced on a full board basis, breakfast, packed lunch, and evening meals. You can arrive by 2pm. Evening meal is at 7pm.
http://sandpipershotel.com/

Extra nights: £60.00 full board
Single supplement: £10 a night.

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South West of England - Cornwall

Chy-an-Albany Hotel, St Ives

Chy an Albany Hotel, St Ives.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.

Viewed from the terrace, St. Ives is a painting made real: pastel-washed cottages tumbling to the water's edge, the narrow streets, the brightly coloured fishing boats and the granite arms of the harbour... 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.

Bedroom detail.

At the Chy an Albany we have reserved all ensuite single rooms for this holiday - all beautifully decorated, each with tea/coffee making facilities (no single supplement payable). Restaurant.Downstairs there is a comfortable lounge, the dining room and bar overlooking the sea, an outside terrace for soaking in the view.

See the hotel website for more details and photos:
http://www.chyanalbanyhotel.com/

Extra nights: £60.00 full board
Single supplement: £10 a night.

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Hunstile Organic Farm, Quantocks, Somerset

Organic free range eggs for breakfast!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!

Lizzie & John walking in their fields.


The Quantocks is a beautiful area, with rolling hills and panoramic views across the county. The farm has its own Stone Circle, spring-fed lake & woods to explore.

They grow a variety of vegetables, soft fruit, herbs, flowers and combinable crops like wheat, barley, oats and peas on over 700 acres of organic land. They also have a small herd of British White Cattle that produce very good beef & a flock of organic chickens that "lay the most delicious free-range eggs in the world (probably)"!

Huntstile Organic Farm - showing the Cider House Loft access.

Accommodation at the farmhouse is devided into farmhouse bedrooms, and delightfully converted outbuildings, barns, and wooden cabins called such names as the Apple Loft, the Cider House, the Studio, the Summerhouse. Between them they offer a range ensuite twin rooms and both ensuite and standard single rooms - some with their own sitting room, or a veranda looking out over the fields. (Single supplements: £5 standard single, £10 ensuite single). All linen is 100% cotton, and all the rooms have central heating or thermostatically controlled electric oil fired radiators.

Free range hens.

Both Lizzie and John are both passionate about locally grown, well-produced, quality food - and their lives revolve around it. "Eating together is important! Preparing, cooking and sharing good food with our friends and family is one of our favourite ways to spend time". Holidays here are priced on a full board basis including generous breakfasts and packed lunches, and delicious evening meals cooked by Lizzie & John. There is also a sitting room at the farm available for our use with a log burner & books and no television.

For more details and photos, see their website:
http://www.huntstileorganicfarm.co.uk/

Single supplements: £5 standard single, £10 ensuite single
Extra night: £55 depending on which room you have

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Saints Bay Hotel, Guernsey

The heated pool at the Saints Bay HotelThis 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.

Saints Bay bedroom.

The bedrooms we have reserved at the hotel are attractive ensuite twin rooms and plenty of ensuite single rooms. All have en-suite facilities, tea/coffee making, hair dryers, colour television, direct dial telephones, mini fridges and comfortable furnishings. (These rooms are classed as their 'standard' rooms).

The hotel bar at a quiet moment. (Lucia Cadei)

Our stay here is priced on a full board basis. In the evening we will eat in the restaurant from the hotel's mouthwatering table d'hote menu which features fresh local produce and fresh local seafood whenever possible. The Bar & Patio menu offers snacks throughout the day, including cake or scones, jam and Guernsey cream for after walking!http://www.saintsbay.com/

Single supplement: £10.00 a night
Extra night: £58.59 (full board)

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Wales

Tintern - Wye Valley

The Royal George Hotel

The Royal George, Tintern.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.

Bedroom at the Royal George.


The hotel offers very comfortable ensuite rooms with good facilities. We have reserved mosty ensuite double rooms to be used as singles (Ensuite single supplement: £15 a night), or there are ensuite twin rooms if you prefer to share with a friend or another member of the group. The bedrooms also have colour TV + satallite, radio alarm clock, Internet access, & even room service if you wish!

Lounge and log fire.

Downstairs there is a lovely comfortable lounge, and the hotel dining room has been awarded a Red Rosette for the quality of its menu, serving the best local Welsh produce with a good wine list.






The hotel has plenty of parking space available, and it is located 6 miles from Chepstow station by bus or taxi. You can arrive by 2pm. Dinner is at 7pm.

Ensuite double as single supplement: £15 a night
Extra full board night: £85.00 (including packed lunch)

http://www.bw-royalgeorgehotel.co.uk/

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Pembrokeshire Coast Path

Pemsbrokshire CP - Part 1 - Amroth to Pembroke

East Trewent farm and cottages.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.

One of the cottages adjoining the farm.

We have reserved two of these cottages as well as the farm's normal bed and breakfast rooms available in a converted farm building tucked behind the farm. The bedrooms are a mix of ensuite or standard twin and single rooms (with supplements being charged for the singles and ensuite rooms). Although the cottages are normally let on a self-catering basis, Pat will be providing us with breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals throughout, served in the cosy farm dining room with a woodburning stove. There is also a lounge for the whole group's use in the cottage immediately ajoining the dining room. There is ample car parking in the gravelled farmyard or Lamphey station is just over 2 miles away. http://www.easttrewentfarm.co.uk/

Single supplement: £5.00 a night
Ensuite supplement: £5 a night
Ensuite single supplement: £10 a night

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Pemsbrokshire CP - Part 2 - Dale to St Davids

Dale Fort.Nights 1 & 2: Dale Fort Field Centre
Dale Fort is a field study centre open to walkers when not in use for courses. It is a converted Victorian military fort set on a rocky promontory at the entrance to Milford Haven in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, and has spectacular views over the sea close to some of the most magnificent scenery in Wales. The Centre bedrooms rooms are all either twins, or small rooms with bunk beds, and they all have sea views. There is also a dining room and lounge for the evening. Our stay at Dale Fort will allow us to cover the first two legs of the walk, with a return lift by taxi at the end of the first day, and a lift out again at the start of the second.

Dale Fort is a couple of miles out from Dale village. Dale is accessible by bus from Haverfordwest station, and if you tell us in advance what time your bus arrives, Marian or a member of the centre staff will come and pick you up from the bus stop in Dale (ideally around 4-5pm).

Broad Haven YH.Nights 3 & 4: Broad Haven YH
Our next 2 nights are spent at Broad Haven Youth Hostel. Broad Haven is a 3 star hostel, modern and purpose built 100 metres from the beach. Facilities include a drying room, games room, TV lounge, Internet access, Table licence... Over our stay at Broad Haven we will cover the next two legs of the walk in the same fashion - with transport when we are not walking from the door.

Twr y felin Hotel.Night 5: St Davids YH
On our fourth walking day we will reach Whitesands Bay - from where it is a short hop on the Puffin Shuttle Bus to St Davids. Time for a little more comfort! Tonight we stay at Twr y felin Hotel in this smallest of Cathedral cities. The TYF as it is known is a great little hotel for groups, simple but comfortable accommodation in mainly 3-bedded rooms (no bunks). There are good facilities, a small bar and restaurant, and nice grounds that one can enjoy with a drink... Throughout the hotel, the owners have tried to keep the informal, friendly charm and character of the building and ensured that the original wooden panels, marble fireplaces and tiled floors were untouched.

After a last morning there will be time to stroll through St Davids, or even possibly visit Ramsay Island by ferry - weather and time permitting. We will then arrange a shared lift back to either Dale Fort for cars or to Haverfordwest for trains at 1.30 pm (costing £6-10 each). Alternatively, if you need to leave earlier than this, there is a regular bus service from St Davids to Haverfordwest.

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Pemsbrokshire CP - Part 3 - Goodwick to St Davids

Nights 1 & 2: Ivybridge Guest House, Goodwick

Front of Ivybridge Guest House.This 2nd Pembrokeshire holiday starts from Goodwich near Fishguard. Goodwick is on the mainline from Haverfordwest. From here we will walk from Goodwick to Pwll Deri, then have transport back for a second night before we walk from Pwll Deri to Aber Draw.

Comfortable lounge.In Goodwick we will stay at Ivybridge - a friendly family run guest house on the edge of Goodwick, a short taxi ride from Goodwick station. The guest house offers attractive ensuite twin room and single rooms with TV and tea/coffee making facilities. There is also a heated indoor swimming pool here open from 7.30am - 8.30pm (and a whirlpool spa bath!), a small bar, and a roaring fire in the lounge if the evenings are chill. Full board is included with a Full Welsh Breakfast (or continental if you prefer), packed lunches, and a delicious 3 course evening meal. http://www.ivybridgeleisure.co.uk/index.php

Nights 3: Caerhafod Lodge

Caerhafod Lodge.After walking from Pwll Deri to the bay of Aber Draw, we stay just up from the coast at Caerhafod Lodge - a new concept in hostels with ensuite 4-bedded rooms, and all bedding and bed linen provided (towel hire is also available). All rooms have power showers, toilet, wash basins. Outside there is a patio with picnic benches where you can enjoy some of the best sea views and sunsets in Pembrokeshire, on a clear day you may often see the Wicklow Mountains of Ireland! For our evening meal, we will walk back down to the sea to eat out in the local pub (20 mins walk away), and after breakfast the next morning, we will make our packed lunches from the buffet Sion and Carolyn, our hosts, will have laid out for us.
http://www.caerhafod.co.uk/

Nights 4 & 5: Twr y felin Hotel (TYF), St Davids

Twr y felin Hotel.On day 4 we walk start our last stretch towards Whitesands Bay, with transport at the end of the day forward to the cathedral city of St Davids to stay at the Twr y felin Hotel (or TYF as it is known). The TYF is a great little hotel for groups, centrally located with plenty of rooms, clean and comfortable accommodatin but not fussy, good facilities, a small bar and restaurant, nice grounds that one can spread into with a drink... Throughout the hotel, the owners have tried to keep the informal, friendly charm and character of the building and ensured that the original wooden panels, marble fireplaces and tiled floors were untouched. The hotel offers a mix of ensuite and standard twin and single rooms. On the first evening we will eat at the hotel - a delicious organic vegetarian buffet has been proposed!

Single bedroom at TYF.

From here we will have transport out to where we finished the previous day - and this is flexible to some extent depending on how we are going. The final stretch is then to Whitesands Bay, following which we will get the shuttle bus back to St Davids for our last night (or walk back on paths and small lanes if we still have the energy!) That evening we will go out to eat in St Davids - an opportunity also to explore this little cathedral town. The next morning we can visit Ramsay Island by shuttle bus or taxi (Ramsay Island trip not included - approx £16) before a lift back to Goodwick to catch a train or collect cars and start our journeys home (return lift to Goodwick is included).
http://www.tyf.com (Click Hotel, then Accommodation to get to details of the hotel).

Single supplement : £10 a night (for nights at Ivybridge & TYF) (not all single rooms at TYF have ensuite facilities; single rooms are not possible at Caerhafod Lodge).
Extra nights B&B basis: £40

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Trigonos, Nantlle Valley, Snowdonia

Trigonos.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.

Lounge.

Trigonos is a residential education centre with a difference. Originally set up as an arts centre, it is now run as a not-for-profit company which hosts a range of courses. Trigonos has a working commitment to environmental restoration and sustainable land use, and runs an organic market garden. The centre is divided into two main buildings - the original building, and a newer arts complex. The original Victorian house contains the dining room, lounge, library, and most of the en-suite bedrooms that we have reserved for this holiday. A further three en-suite bedrooms open onto the separate arts complex courtyard.

Trigonos twin bedroom.

Delicious home-cooked food is a special feature at Trigonos, whenever possible prepared with vegetables and salads grown on their own land without the use of herbicides, pesticides or artificial fertilisers. Vegetarian, vegan and other special diets are imaginatively catered for. The dining room with its beautiful hand-made furniture and tables overlooks fields and the lake, with stunning views of the mountains.

For this holiday we have reserved 3 ensuite twins and 6 ensuite single rooms (Ensuite single supplement £10 a night) - all attractively decorated.
http://www.trigonos.org/

This holiday is priced on a full board basis included breakfast, packed lunch, and delicious evening meals.
Ensuite single supplement: £10 a night

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Intermediate Snowdonia Trek

1st night: Dol Peris Hotel, Llanberis
Dol Peris Hotel.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.

Dol Peris bedroom.

All bedrooms are have ensuite facilities, TV, and tea/coffee making facilites. You can also borrow a hairdryer if you need. You can arrive any time from 2pm. On this first evening we'll go out to eat in the village (this evening meal is not included - from £12.00).

Extra B&B night at Dol Peris: £38 (i.e without packed lunch)
Dol Peris web site:
http://www.dolperis.com/index.html


Snowdon Ranger youth hostel - a former inn

2nd & 3rd nights: Snowdon Ranger youth hostel. This homely former inn nestles at the foot of Snowdon, and offers lake swimming for the hardy just across the road - from its own beach! It has a lounge and games room, and most of its bedrooms are 2 or 4-bedded.

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Scotland

West Highland Way

View of Loch Lomond from Rowardennen Hotel.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.

The Hawthornes B&B, the Square, Drymen

Hawthornes bedroom.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).
http://www.thehawthorns-drymen.com/house.php


Rowardennan Hotel, Rowardennan

Rowardennan Hotel location.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).
http://www.rowardennanhotel.co.uk/


The Drovers Inn, Inverarnan

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).
http://theinnonlochlomond.com/


Invervey Hotel, Tyndrum

Invervey Hotel.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).

Invervey dining room.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).

http://www.inverveyhotel.co.uk/



Inveroran Hotel, Bridge of Orchy

A bedroom at the Inveroran Hotel.The Inveroran Hotel which we are using for our 2009 bookings, was built in the 19th century as a coaching inn.

Here we have reserved twin and 3-bedded rooms - all with ensuite facilities, TV, hairdryers, and tea/coffee making trays. The hotel doesn't have a drying room as such, but the owners are willing to dry boots and outdoor clothes for residents.

http://www.inveroran.com/


Kingshouse Hotel, Rannoch Moor

Kingshouse Hotel in winter.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).
http://freespace.virgin.net/kings.house/


Tailrace Inn bedroom.The Tailrace Inn, Kinlochleven

The Tail Race Inn is situated in the centre of the scenic and historic village of Kinlochleven in the West Highlands of Scotland. The Tailrace Inn is a comfortable inn with ensuite twin rooms, and one 4-bedded room. The bedrooms all have colour TV/DVD players, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryer and midge screens on all windows. Downstairs is a cosy bar that has recently been completely refurbished, and in the evening there is sometimes live music playing here. Rooms: Ensuite twins & 1 large ensuite 4-bedded room).
http://www.tailraceinn.co.uk/


Alexander Hotel, Fort William

Alexandra Hotel, Fort William.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.

The bedrooms we have taken are twin rooms, all with en-suite bathroom, television, direct dial telephone and tea and coffee making facilties. In the evening we'll eat at one of the Alexandra restaurants - a favourite last night for previous WW groups!
http://www.strathmorehotels.com/alex_site/index.htm

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High Level Rum - Kinloch Castle Hostel, Western Isles

Rum Castle - our base for the next week! (Elana Katz)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!

Guirdil Bay bothy - a treat for another time!

Bothy nights: For 2 nights we will stay in one of the island's simple bothys near the coast: sleeping on the wooden floor (bring a sleeping mat and a 3-4 season sleeping bag); washing in a nearby stream, and taking what we need in the way of food & cooking gear with us (bring lightweight camping knife, fork, spoon, large bowl or plate, & mug).

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Isle of Mull, Western Isles, Scotland

Ardachy House Hotel.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.

Ardalanish Bay.

Ardalanish Bay is a designated site of special scientific interest with its unique geology, Iron Age fort and standing stone. Otters and the elusive Corncrage are regular visitors to the area. The small ferry terminal for the islands of Iona and Staffa is 7 miles away.

We will have exclusive use of the hotel during our stay. The bedrooms all have ensuite shower rooms (singles, twins & a double), and are each equipped with hairdryers, radios, tea making facilities and convector heaters. The comfortable resident's lounge has great views out over the coast. We will be eating at the hotel - a three course meal prepared from fresh produce - with variations for special dietary needs.

Single supplement: £10 a night
Extra nights: £65 a night

http://www.ardachy.co.uk/

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Barons Craig Hotel, Rockcliffe,
Dumfries & Galloway

Hotel from the grounds.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.

The hotel lounge.

The hotel can be easily reached with a 45 minutes drive from the M6/M74 motorways, or a bus ride from Dumfries station. The atmosphere of the hotel is friendly and relaxed, the accommodation spacious and comfortable, and the staff enthusiastic and helpful.

A bedroom at the hotel.

For this holiday we have reserved all ensuite single rooms (spacious double or twin rooms to be taken as singles with not supplement). The bedrooms are located in the Garden Suite close to the hotel with some of the best sea views across Rockcliffe Bay.

All the bedrooms are beautifully decorated, and has each ensuite facilites, TV & tea/coffee making facilities, and a direct dial telephone. Laundry services are available on request.

Drawing room.

The hotel has an excellent chef and the evening meals are included in the price of the holiday. The owner of the hotel has proposed that the group have it's own small dining room eating around a single large round table, following which we can retire to relax in front of the log fire in the beautiful hotel lounge.

Looking towards Rockcliffe Bay.

No single supplement!
Extra night: £70 full board

See more info and photos:
http://www.baronscraighotel.co.uk/




Newcastle YH, Mourne Mountains, Northern Ireland

Newcastle beneath the Mourne Mountains.The small seaside town of Newcastle nestles at the foot of the Mourne Mountains on the County Down Coast, located close to Downpatrick which is thought to be where St Patrick is buried.

Newcastle YH on the sea front in Newcastle.

Newcastle is a mecca for walkers and climbers, with the Mournes on it’s doorstep. Newcastle hostel is right on the seafront - a traditional hostel with a friendly atmosphere close to pubs and restaurants of Newcastle. We will eat breakfast at the hostel and collect our packed lunches before we go walking. In the evening we will then go out to eat at local restaurants or small hotels close by (evening meals not included - from £12).

http://www.hini.org.uk/hostels/newcastle.cfm

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Ireland

Intermediate Kerry, Ireland

Kingdom View B&B near Kilarney

Kingdom View B&BKingdom View B&B, run by Eileen and Jerome, is situated on the ring of Kerry beneath Ireland's highest mountains - the McGillycuddy Reeks and Carrauntoohil, not far from both Kerry Airport and the town of Kilarney. From here we'll have easy access to half of our walks. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, and there are traditional musicians in the family.

Dining/breakfast room.Twin bedroom.

The B&B has mainly ensuite bedrooms, mainly twins, some singles. Downstairs is a comfy lounge with a fire, and the breakfast room. In the evenings we'll go out to eat at restaurants and pubs in the area (evening meals not included, from £12)

http://freewebhosting.hostdepartment.com/k/kingdomview/index.htm

Mount Brandon Hostel, Brandon Bay

The attractive lounge.Mount Brandon Hostel is situated at the foot of Brandon Mountain along the Dingle Way, in one of the most scenic and unspoiled regions of Ireland. It is a small independent hostel and must be one of the most attractive in Ireland. The comfortable lounge and the upstairs appartment with a balcony look out over Brandon Bay, and from every window you can see the sea or the surrounding valleys and mountains.

The appartment with a balcony looking out onto Brandon Bay.The double bedroom.

Many of the rooms we have reserved have ensuite facilities, 2-3 bedded rooms, some with bunks, some with ordinary beds. Two of the twins are in the apartment, giving us a little more space as a group (the apartment has a small kitchen and lounge with views out onto Brandon Bay). All the bedrooms are comfortable and clean with linen provided and free hot showers.

Hostel breakfasts are served too late for high level walks, so we will buy food for breakfast from the village shop and make our own breakfasts and packed lunches in the kitchen (everyone pitches in, but the food is paid for by WalkingWomen). In the evenings we will eat out in the pub next door to the hostel (evening meals not included, from £12)

http://www.mountbrandonhostel.com/

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France

Chateau Bellenau, Normandy

Chateau BellenauChateau 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.

One of the spacious rooms we will use as a twin.

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).

Waterways in the grounds.

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: £10 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!

Chalet NicoleTwo 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.

Twin bed rooms with ensuite facilities.

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.

Dining room, with lounge extending beyond the central fireplace.

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).

La Tania chalets in a ski-in/ski-out position.

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

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Spain

Intermediate Andalucia - Hotel La Finca el Cerrillo

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.


The hotel swimming pool.


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.

Bedroom at Hotel la Finca.


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

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The Alpujarras, Spain

Nights 1-6: Hotel Los Berchules, Los Berchules village

Hotel Los BerchulesThis 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!

Lounge.

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.

Twin room at Los Berchules.

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

View from the top terraza.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.

Ensuite single room.

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).

Ensuite bathrooms.

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.

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Canary Islands

La Gomera

The view down.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).Hotel Tamahuche.

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



Pension Sonia.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).

Playa Santiago.

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.

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Italy

Gran Paradiso, Italian Western Alps

1st & 7th nights - Albergo Gran Paradiso
Albergo Gran Paradiso in the early morning. 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
Rif. Le Fonti by the Orca River. 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
Citta di Chivasso refugio. 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.

Inside the refuge - wood burning stove in the centre.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 The ragazzi - young men who help Alessandro run the refuge.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.

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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).

Swiss style twin bed.Hotel Post HardermannliNight 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

Lobhorn Hut bunk beds.Lobhornhutte Panorama.Night 2: Lobhornhutte
Beautiful chalet hut in the mountains with lots of wood everywhere, bunk beds, and an amazing panorama out front!


Spielbden Alp hutNight 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.

Alpenhof bedroom.Alpenhof 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

Guest House Eigergletscher. 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/

Bunk bedroom.Dining room.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/

Hotel Faulhorn.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 Hotel Faulhorn - on top of the Faulhorn.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).

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Crete

Intermediate Crete - Oasis Rooms, Rothakino

View from the headland back to Polyrisos Beach and Oasis RoomsMaria 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 balcony view from one of the Oasis rooms.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.

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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.

Evening on East Meets West.


'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.

Ensuite twin cabin.

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!

Ensuite single cabin.

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.

Dinner served on deck.

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)

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Slovenia

Penzion Vila Kolinska, Bled, Slovenia

Vila Kolinska from the road.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.

One of the bedrooms at Vila Kolinska.

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.

The foyer at Vila Kolinska.


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.

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Penzion Bohinj, Slovenia

Penzion Bohinj.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.

One of the mansard rooms.

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.

Pammy eating out on the terrace at Penzion Bohinj.

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.

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Sutivan, Island of Brac, Croatia

Apartments & pension to choose from:

Aerial view of harbour & centre of Sutivan.Since Sutivan has no hotels or large pensions, here you choose between Pension Dora and apartments within walking distance of Pension Dora.

The apartments There are usually 1-2 bedrooms in each apartment, and 2-3 apartments in any one house. Staying in the apartments you have your own room, and will share a bathroom, kitchen, and lounge with usually only 1 other woman. (There are a very few ensuite single apartments as well)

Some apartments share a terrace or shady courtyard, some have sea views but vitually no terrace or courtyard (because they overlook the fishing harbour).

Sutivan plan.

Location plan
1 Pension Dora rooms (4-6 women).
2 Rakela Apartments (5 women)
3 Sanja Apartment (2 women)
4 The Tower Apartment (3 women)
5 Jelka Apartments (4 women)
6 Lion rooms (flexible number)


One of the bedrooms.Lounge. What are the apartments like?
The decor and style is typically Croatian, simple, homely, and possibly with some older style furniture. Some of the shower rooms are fairly small. However there are enough apartments for everyone to have a single room if they wish. (Standard Single supplement £5 a night. Ensuite single supplement £10 a night).

Eating arrangements: Wherever we stay, we all eat breakfast at Pension Dora, and make our packed lunches from a packed lunch buffet before walking. In the evening we will eat at Pension Dora on 4 nights, and on the other 3 nights we'll go out to eat on the harbour front in smaller groups.

Buying other food - tea, coffee, milk...? There are 2 little supermarkets in the village for buying milk, tea & coffee etc, or snacks for after walking. There is also an open air fruit stall near Pension Dora.


(1) Pension Dora

Part of the courtyard at 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.

Fish is excellent here & everywhere in Sutivan.

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.

Ensuite bedroom.

Some women can also stay at Pension Dora. The Pension offers conventional ensuite twin rooms and 2 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.

Ensuite single supplement: £10 a night


The Apartments in more detail

(2) Rakela's House - sleeps total 5 women

Rakela - with 2 apartments & 1 studioRakela is a building tucked away in a quiet street behind the sea front. As such there is a sea view between the buildings from the terrace and from one of the bedrooms. It is conveniently located near the front, and only 3-4 minutes walk from Pension Dora. The furniture is traditional - but this building is due to be renovated (possibly) so the furniture might change.

Rakela: 2 apartments & 1 studio

  • Typical single bedroom at Rakela.One of the kitchens at Rakela.Apartment 1: On the 1st floor, has 2 single bedrooms, kitchen, small lounge, bathroom, access to non-sea view terrace.
  • Apartment 2: On the 2nd floor has 2 single bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom, small lounge, access to partial sea view terrace.
  • Studio 3: Located at the end of the house with double bedroom, shower room, no kitchen. Has a little terrace with a tree. (Would suit a couple, or someone who liked her own space).

Standard single supplement: £5 a night



(3) Apartment Sanja - sleeps 2 women

Apartment Sanja (stairs going up to 1st floor apart.)Apartment Sanja is on the harbour front above one of the restaurants we have most enjoyed eating at. Despite this proximity to the harbour, unless you want to go to sleep before 11, you are unlikely to find it noisy here as we will be in Sutivan after the peak season has ended.

One of the bedrooms.



Harbour front from Sanja terrace.


  • Apartment Sanja has 2 single bedrooms with views to the harbour, a kitchen & lounge with traditional furniture, and a small, sea view terrace surrounded by pot plants - just big enough for a table, 2 chairs & sunshade!

Standard single supplement: £5 a night


(4) The Tower Apartment - sleeps 3 women:

Franka on the front.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).

  • Tower Apartment
    Here there are 3 bedroom -
    1 bedroom on the 1st floor with a tiny balcony. Very light room with 2 windows. Shower room with toilet is on this floor.
    View from passageway door to harbour.Bedroom at Franka.2 bedrooms on the 2nd floor which share the 1st floor bathroom. (Although this is an exception to the rule of not more than 2 women to an apartment, we have included the Tower because of its wonderful views). The small kitchen is on this floor.

Standard single suppl. £5 a night

(We didn't book the Tower last year due to worries about noise from the harbour restaurants at night, however September proved to be completely quiet after 10.30/11pm).


(5) Jelka Apartments - sleep 4 women in separate apartments:

This 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 (no balcony). 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 is very friendly).

Ensuite single supplement in apartments: £10 a night


(6) Lion ensuite rooms - 1 woman each:

If we need extra single rooms with ensuite facilities we have reserved a few Lion rooms 5 minutes walk from Pension Dora. Lion rooms all have a double bedroom, a shower room, and a balcony with great sea view. The building itself is fairly anonymous and modern, with a reception downstairs (even though this is not a hotel in any other way - i.e no restaurant, bar, or communal lounge). As such the rooms somewhat lack the charm of the traditional built apartments buildings but they will suit women who prefers her own ensuite space above other considerations. NB. These rooms are no apartments and have no kitchen.

Ensuite single supplement in apartments: £10 a night


Currency: Croatian Kuna
Mobile reception: generally very good

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Bulgaria

Intermediate & High Alpine Bulgaria

Nights 1, 2, 3, 4: Hotel Maliovitsa, Maliovitsa, Rila mountains

Rushing beck.On arrival at Sofia Airport, we are met by our guides Lati and Nelli and driven to the Maliovitsa Valley where we will spend the first 4 nights of this trip. Hotel Maliovitsa has been newly renovated, and from here 2 of our walks are right on the doorstep. (This is a change from the previous 2 years when we had to drive up to an hour each way from Borovets to reach these walks). The hotel has a very peaceful setting at the start of the Maliovitsa valley, with pine trees on 2 sides, and views up the valley from the bedrooms. There is no village here, just the hotel and a few other accommodations, including a refuge. (In the winter Maliovitsa is a small ski resort). However, we will stop on our way to the hotel from the airport in the nearest small town - to get a feel for the area, and for any forgotten items. We will also drive to Borovets for our second walk where there are several cafes, small shops, and a supermarket to explore after walking.

Simple clean modern style.

Hotel Maliovitsa offers plenty of ensuite twin rooms that we can take as twins or as singles with a supplement (Single supplement £10 a night). The rooms are simply furnished in a clean modern style, and some of them have balconies. All have ensuite facilities. Downstairs there is a lounge and dining room with a long picture window. Our route to the Rila Monastery on the 4th day starts from just behind the hotel.



Rila Monastery as seen from hotel balcony.Night 5: Hotel Tsarev Vruv , Rila Monastery

Our 4th walk will take us over a pass (different pass for each grade) and down to near the Rila Monastery (see below left), with transport the last stretch of the way. This is a long walk with plenty of 'up' on both grades of walk, but very rewarding.

The Rila Monastery.

We spend one night here to visit the famous Rila Monastery which is a World Heritage Site. Before our visit, we stay the night at Tsarev Vruv Hotel - an old hotel conveniently located 2 minutes walk from the Monastery and offer an older style ensuite twin and single rooms. From many of the balconies you can see the monastery. The food here is excellent...



Breakfast on the terrace.Nights 6: Melnick near Pirin mountains

After our morning walk to St John's Cave, the visit to the Rila Monastery, and lunch at a great trout restaurant, we transfer to Melnick to the south of the Pirin. Melnik is the centre of Bulgaria's main wine growing area. It is also known for its fascinating sandstone rock features - pyramids and spires - resulting from wind and water partially eroding away the sandstone plateau behind the village. Melnik is delightful for its earthen streets and vines growing over courtyards - it has a mediterranean feel, and indeed is closer to Greece and Macedonia than the rest of Bulgaria. Here we stay one night at Hotel Melnik, nice ensuite twin and single rooms, breakfast on the hotel terrace....


Nights 7, 8 & 9: Hotel Molerova, Bansko, Pirin Mountains

View of the hotel from the central couryard.Driving today into the Pirin, we reach the resort town of Bansko with views out to the mountains including magnificent Vihren. Here we stay at Hotel Molerova. This hotel is recently built, light and spacious, tastefully decorated, offering ensuite twin and single rooms, some of them overlooking the courtyard restaurant where we eat. A gypsy band sometimes plays here serenading diners. Bansko retains a beautiful old centre full of traditional buildings and taverns which we will also doubt want to visit...


View from the bedroom windows.Night 10: Hotel Serdika, Sofia (or similar)

For our last night we drive back to Sofia with time to visit the city in the afternoon in case your flight is early the next day. Here we stay at modern Hotel Serdika in the centre of Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria with excellent access to all there is to see in Sofia (don't believe the Rough Guide - Sofia has lots of lovley old sites to see!) From here we will also have easy access to Sofia Airport the next day for our flights home.

Hotel Serdica Single Bedroom.

The Serdika is a large modern hotel next to the monument of Vasil Levski, only 5 minutes walking from St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, and offers ensuite twin and single bedrooms with direct-dial telephone, satellite TV, and room fans. The hotel also has a lift, room service, a restaurant, and a coffee shop.

Single supplement over the whole trip: £10 a night
Currency: Bulgarian Lev
Mobile reception: may be poor in some mountains areas.

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Czech Republic

Gentle Prague & Bohemia, Czech Republic

Pod Sikmou Vizi Jicin Hotel.Nights 1-4: Hotel Pod Sikmou Vezi Jicin, Bohemian Paradise

The friendly Pod Šikmou veží hotel is situated in calm nature in the centre of Bohemian Paradise close to the Prachov rocks. This hotel has been upgraded in 2006 and now has fully ensuite facilities for all but two of its twin and single bedrooms (Ensuite single supplement £12 a night). The remaining two single rooms share a bathroom conveniently between the two rooms (Standard single supplement £9.50 a night).

Comfortable hotel bedroom.

The hotel also has a lovely dining room where we will eat in the evening, a cafe, table tennis room, and a sauna. You can also hire mountain bikes from here in case you want a little more exercise before the end of the day!
http://www.ceskyraj.cz/ubytovani/en/990004.htm


Nights 5 & 6: Hotel Atos, Prague

Hotel Atos.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.

Typical bedroom.

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.Typical bedroom.

Ensuite single supplement for the whole trip: £10.00 a night

Currency: Czech Koruna
Mobile phone coverage: good

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XC skiing & snowshoeing, Sumava & Prague, Czech Republic

Nights 1-7: Pension Pohoda, Kvilda, Sumava

Pension Pohoda from their website.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.

Pension Pohoda bedroom.


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.

Restaurant at Pension Pohoda.

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).

Lounge at the Sumava sister inn across the road.

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.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.

Typical bedroom.

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.Typical bedroom.

Ensuite single supplement: £15.00 a night

Currency: Czech Koruna
Mobile phone coverage: good

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M'goun Trek, High Atlas, Morocco

MarrakechNights 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 bedroom.

Hotel Riad Assia has lovely traditional decor, small but comfortable ensuite rooms with hand made bed covers and curtains, and an attractive terrace cafe with views of the Koutoubia mosque. 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.

Single supplement available for all Marrakech nights: £14 per night
Extra nights possible in Hotel Riad Assia: £27 per night
http://www.hotel-assia-marrakech.com/en/index.htm


A typical Berber village.

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

Walking towards the col.Mules will carry our gear and tents.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:



Looking back to the valley.

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).

Karstic landscape.

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).

Entrance to the Wandras Gorge.


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).

Summit of Mgoun ahead.

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).

Ait Bougoumez.

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

Bedroom at the Kasbah.Kasbah in Ait Bouguemez.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.

Some lovely touches.

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...

Cascades d'OuzoudDay 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).

Hotel Amani Appart, Marrakech

Nice touches.Roof garden.Arriving in Marrakech we stay at Hotel Amani - a different hotel to our first stay. Nice touches give this modern hotel a more traditional air inside.

Staying here will afford us a little more luxury after the hardships of the trek - and a chance to have a single room Single rooms are possible here with a supplement.if you want to treat yourself (Single supplement - £14 a night). There is even a small swimming pool and a sun terrace, and on the roof there is a roof terrace with stunning views over Marrakech. The staff have a reputation for being friendly. In the evening we will go out to eat.

Hotel pool.

Day 9: Leisure day - time to have a relaxed start, late breakfast, enjoy the pool, sit and read, take it all in - or walk into the centre (15 minutes) to do some last souvenir shopping in the souks, visit the sights of Marrakech - the Koutoubia Mosque built in the 12th century, the Saadien Tombs, the Bahia Palace, the Menara basin…

Single supplement at Hotel Amani Appart: £14 a night
Extra nights: £40

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.

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South Africa

Intermediate South Africa - Whale Trail

Nights 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 13: Cape Town - Brenwin Guest House

Brenwin pool and garden. After a day flight to Cape Town (via Amsterdam) we stay for the first 5 nights of the holiday at comfortable Brenwin Guest House, situated in cosmopolitan Green Point on the slopes of Signal Hill. The bustling V&A Waterfront with its many shops, bars and restaurants will be only 8 minute walk away.

Breakfast room.

Brenwin was once the Port Captain's residence. Recently, the guest house has just been completely renovated, but it has kept its charm. It has a wonderful tropical garden with a small swimming pool, banana and palm trees and we have added a thatch gazebo to relax in, have tea, read a book or have an afternoon nap. A wooden deck now adjoins the breakfast room, so you can enjoy your breakfast al fresco surrounded by trees and singing birds.

One of the double bedrooms.

The bedrooms are all comfortable and individually styled with en suite bath or shower rooms, television, direct line telephone, bar fridge and tea/coffee hospitality tray & private wallsafe.

There will be a generous buffet breakfast - as is usual in South Africa - with extra food and rolls available for making up our packed lunches to take walking. In the evenings we will go out to explore some of Cape Town's many good eating places (not included, from £10).

http://www.brenwin.co.za/

Nights 6, 7, 8, 9, 10: De Hoope Whale Trail

View on the inland stretch of the first 2 days.For 2 days of the trek we walk through the De Hoope Reserve down to the coast - a stunning walk even before you reach the sea with many flowers and birds, and wonderful views. For the next 3 days of the trek, we walk along the coast past bays where the Southern Wright whales come close to give birth at this time of year.

Trail cottages near the sea.

Each night on the trail we stay in cottages owned and equiped by the De Hoope Reserve for use on the trail. There are two cottages at each stopping point - each sleeping 6 people. Once we reach the coast, the cottages are often spectacularly situated with views of the sea.

The cottages have bunk beds with matresses (bring a sleeping bag), solar heated water, a small kitchen, and a braai area outside where we will have our barbeques in the evening - definitely part of the South African experience! All luggage and food is transported for us to the next cottage - you carry a day pack only! All the food on the trek is included in the price of the holiday.

http://www.capenature.org.za/index.php?fArticleId=433

Nights 11, 12: Hermanus - Windsor Hotel

The Windsor Hotel, Hermanus.At the end of the trek we will stop in Hermanus for 2 nights before returning to Cape Town. Here we will stay in the comfortable Windsor Hotel on the cliffs, with sea view rooms from which you might see more whales in the distance! In the evening we'll go out to explore some of the good eating places in Hermanus (not included).



Nights 13: Brenwin Guest House, Cape Town

For our last night we return to Brenwin Guest House again in Cape Town (see above for details). The next night is spent flying home.

Single Supplement for the 7 B&B/hotel nights: £15 a night (Total: £105 for those 7 nights).
Currency: South African Rand
Mobile Reception: pretty good in most places except some sections of the coast

http://www.windsorhotel.co.za/

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Nepal

Intermediate Nepal

Hotel Thamel - KathmanduHotel Thamel.

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

Fish Tail mountain.

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 bedroom.

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/


Super View Guest House in Ulleri.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.

Snow Land Lodge in the morning sun.

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!

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Patagonia

Itinerary

(The letters after each day indicate which meals are included: B - Breakfast, L - Packed lunch, D - Dinner).

  • Day 1: Fly out from London Heathrow
    (Indirect flight via Paris in the evening)
  • Day 2: Arrive into Buenos Aires (most likely in the morning)
    Argentina's lively capital - transfer to hotel. Depending on the flight schedule there should be plenty of time to explore the city - take a walking tour of the city, do a little shopping. In the evening we will have a briefing about the trip, then go out to eat.
  • Day 3: Travel to Paine National Park
    After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer to airport & fly to el Calafate in Santa Cruz Province. From here we drive into Chile on route 40. Amazing scenery to see as we travel. Cross the border at Cerro Castillo. See Guanacos, Condor and armadillo if we are lucky. Reach Paine National Park, camp at Hosteria Las Torres inside the park. Map of the W Paine trek.














  • Day 4: Walk to foot of El Paine massif
    Las Torres del PaineBreakfast, then start our trek. From Refugio Las Torres, we continue to the foot of the El Paine massif for a view of the torres. Camp at Refugio Las Torres. (B, L, D)
  • Day 5: Walk to Refugio Los Cuernos near Lake Nordenskljold
    Breakfast. Trek the lake Nordenskljöld trail to Refugio Los Cuernos for an overnight stay. (B, L, D)
  • Day 6: Walk to Campamento Britanico
    Route passes Campamento Frances with views of Glaciar Frances. Continue past Lago Skottsberg to Lago Pehoé for an overnight stay at Refugio Pehoé. (B, L, D)
  • Lago Grey & Glacier Grey.Day 7: Walk above Lago Grey to Glacier Grey
    Stop at the viewpoint to see the towering walls of the glacier and the icebergs drifting in the lake. Stay overnight at Campsite Grey. (B, L, D)
  • Day 8: Walk back to Refugio Pehoe, transfer to el Calafate
    From Refugio Pehoé take the launch back to the bus at Pudeto to exit the park. Private transfer to Calafate.(Argentina) 5 hours bus drive. Night at hosteria. (B, L)
Moreno Glacier calving into lake.
  • Day 9: Relaxed start, visit Moreno Glacier
    Breakfast. Relaxed morning. Visit the National Park Los Glaciares and visit the Moreno Glacier. Chance to do laundry, souvenirs, etc or OPTIONAL Boat trip on Argentino Lake. Night at hosteria. (B, L)
  • Day 10: Transfer to Chalten. Day walk to Cerro Torre Lagoon
    Cerro Torre Lagoon.Transfer to Chalten 4 hours aprox. Start trek to Cerro Torre Lagoon - a pleasant hike through lenga forest with views of Cerro Torre, Torre Egger, and Cerro Standhart. Return to town. Sleep at Hostel. (B, L)
  • Day 11: Hike to Laguna de los Tres
    Fitzroy towers.In the morning we will hike to Laguna de los tres. Magnificent views of the Fitzroy with close up of Fitzroy's stunning North Face. Walk back to town. Sleep at Hostel. (B, L )
  • Day 12: Hike to Loma del Pliegue tumbado Long walk but superb views of the FitzRoy Range. Sleep at Hostel. (B, L)
  • Day 13: Leisure day in el Chalten with option of glacier walk. Barbeque tonight! (B, D)
  • Day 14: Return to Calafate, then Buenos Aries
    Return to Calafate - 4 hour drive. Fly out to BS AS. Transfer to Hotel. (B)
  • Day 15: Last day in Buenos Aries, fly out
    Breakfast. City tour possible - visit San Isidro. Last shopping for souvenirs. Transfer to airport late afternoon. Fly out. (B)
  • Day 16: Arrive back at London Heathrow in the morning
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