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Winter 2009/10

Holiday Outlines - Winter 2009/10

A second opportunity to join this fabulous 2-week intermediate holiday in Nepal. Includes time in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and a 6-day tea house trek in the Annapurna region...

Fuller detail -
The incredible experience of trekking in Nepal need not be purely for high level walkers. The Hindu and Buddhist temples of Kathmandu, the amazing medieval city of Baktapur, the serenity of Phewa Tal ('Fish Tail Lake') in Pokhara, and the breath taking views of the Himalaya are all features of this intermediate holiday to Nepal - including a 6-day circular trek to Gorapani in the Annapurna region. At Gorapani, weather permitting, we'll climb Poon Hill and watch the sun rise over the magnificent Annapurna range. There'll be bamboo forests and huge rhododendron trees in flower, monkeys in the trees, steep stone steps that we'll take as slowly as we need, and little villages dotting the terraced hillsides where we'll stop for tea. From Pokhara before the trek, we will have a warm-up walk to Sunrise View at Sarankot, and maybe cross the lake by boat to climb to the Peace Temple. The walks on this holiday are to the full limit of Intermediate, and on 1 day we will be walking uphill for 6 hours. We will stay in 3- star hotels in Kathmandu & Pokhara, and simple tea houses on the trek (basic accommodation with clean rooms and filtered water. Some have squat toilets). Luggage is transported for you - you carry a day pack only.

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Flight to Kathmandu is not included. Taxi transfer IS included!:
Lorraine, your guide, will be travelling with Qatar Airways (flight QR002/QR350 going out, & QR353/QR1 coming back). We like Qatar because they give good service and are reasonably priced. The taxi transfer from Kathmandu airport to the hotel in Kathmandu will meet this flight.

You can book this Qatar flight on the Internet (eg. on Expedia) or we can book it for you on our agent's ATOL license (WW flight booking fee £10 - but when booked with our agent, you usually only pay a small flight deposit now). Alternatively, you can travel on a different flight arriving on the same day and meet the group at the hotel in Kathmandu. Please talk to us about different options. Book early for the best flight prices!

Also includes: B&B in Kathmandu & Pokhara, full board on trek; full day's sightseeing in Kathmandu; Internal flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara; transport of luggage on trek, + guided walks & trek.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail -
La Tania 1350m is a small friendly resort just outside Courchevel with easy access to the Courchevel slopes and the superb Trois Vallees ski area. There are slopes here to suit all abilities, and with 15 of us in total there'll be plenty of company to attend ski school with or to ski with in small groups. For this holiday we have exclusive use of Chalet Nicole which has been so appreciated by other WW groups in the past. Chalet Nicole is run by a small chalet company called 'Family-Friendly Skiing'. The chalet has a convenient ski-in/ski-out position near the bottom of the red run into La Tania - just above the telecabine which accesses all of the Courchevel slopes. Alternatively it's a short walk from the blue run. Chalet staff drive beginners to ski school in their minibus, and pick you up later to make life easy! (English speaking instructors).

The chalet has 7 twin bedrooms and 1 single, all fully ensuite, mostly with baths. The single room is smaller and has a shower (£10 a night single supplement). The chalet has a good-sized lounge/dining room on the 2nd floor built around an open fire. There's a sauna downstairs, and a hot tub outdoors for an after ski soak! Breakfast & evening meals will be prepared for us by the chalet staff except for the one evening we go out to eat. The food was very good last year.

Courchevel has snow conditions to dream about due to its largely north facing slopes, its height, and its large number of snow cannons right down to the village. La Tania was originally built as an Olympic village with lots of chalets, après ski bars and little restaurants. It probably has the friendliest atmosphere of all the Courchevel resorts. It is approached by lovely tree runs - a blue and a red - and enjoys very fast access to the higher slopes and a good lift connection to both Courchevel and adjacent Meribel.

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Flight to Geneva is not included. Transfer to La Tania IS included!
All the ski flights for 2010 are now available. Book early for the best prices!
You can fly to Geneva from Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh, East Midlands, Birmingham, Bristol, & Belfast in time for our transfer times in each direction:

• Transfer on 7 Mar leaves Geneva at 11.30
• Transfer on 14 Mar arrives back to Geneva at 08.00
• Please speak to us before you book a flight at a different time!
• We are happy to book your flight for you, but we now charge a WW flight booking fee of £10.

Also includes: breakfasts, 6 evening meals with free wine, transfer from/to Geneva at certain times.

Extras not included: (paid for in Euro or by credit card at the chalet).
Lift pass approx 182 Euros or 225 Euros (Courchevel only, or 3 Valleys)
Ski school lessons - 5 X 2 hours: 150 Euros approx
Ski/ski boot hire: £90/£40 respectively - depends which grade you choose.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail -
La Tania 1350m is a small friendly resort just outside Courchevel with easy access to the Courchevel slopes and the superb Trois Vallees ski area. There are slopes here to suit all abilities, and with 15 of us in total there'll be plenty of company to attend ski school with or to ski with in small groups. For this holiday we have exclusive use of Chalet Nicole which has been so appreciated by other WW groups in the past. Chalet Nicole is run by a small chalet company called 'Family-Friendly Skiing'. The chalet has a convenient ski-in/ski-out position near the bottom of the red run into La Tania - just above the telecabine which accesses all of the Courchevel slopes. Alternatively it's a short walk from the blue run. Chalet staff drive beginners to ski school in their minibus, and pick you up later to make life easy! (English speaking instructors).

The chalet has 7 twin bedrooms and 1 single, all fully ensuite, mostly with baths. The single room is smaller and has a shower (£10 a night single supplement). The chalet has a good-sized lounge/dining room on the 2nd floor built around an open fire. There's a sauna downstairs, and a hot tub outdoors for an after ski soak! Breakfast & evening meals will be prepared for us by the chalet staff except for the one evening we go out to eat. The food was very good last year.

Courchevel has snow conditions to dream about due to its largely north facing slopes, its height, and its large number of snow cannons right down to the village. La Tania was originally built as an Olympic village with lots of chalets, après ski bars and little restaurants. It probably has the friendliest atmosphere of all the Courchevel resorts. It is approached by lovely tree runs - a blue and a red - and enjoys very fast access to the higher slopes and a good lift connection to both Courchevel and adjacent Meribel.

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Flight to Geneva is not included. Transfer to La Tania IS included!
All the ski flights for 2010 are now available. Book early for the best prices!
You can fly to Geneva from Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh, East Midlands, Birmingham, Bristol, & Belfast in time for our transfer times in each direction:

• 2 transfers on 14 Mar leaving Geneva between 10.00 & 11.30
• 2 transfers on 21 Mar arriving back to Geneva at between 08.00 & 09.00
• Please speak to us before you book a flight at a different time!
• We are happy to book your flight for you, but we now charge a WW flight booking fee of £10 - our apologies.

Also includes: breakfasts, 6 evening meals with free wine, transfer from/to Geneva at certain times.

Extras not included: (paid for in Euro or by credit card at the chalet).
Lift pass approx 182 Euros or 225 Euros (Courchevel only, or 3 Valleys)
Ski school lessons - 5 X 2 hours: 150 Euros approx
Ski/ski boot hire: £90/£40 respectively - depends which grade you choose.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
The peaceful Quantock Hills in Somerset were the first area in England to be designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Standing above the Vale of Taunton, they afford far-reaching views across nine counties and over the Bristol Channel to the Welsh hills. Our walks will explore lesser known routes over moorland hilltops and through quiet wooded combes full of spring flowers where we might see ponies, badgers, buzzards, and red deer. We will be based at Huntstile Organic Farm on the outskirts of Goathurst village - a 14th century farmhouse that has its own stone circle, a spring-fed lake, and woods to explore. In addition to the farmhouse rooms we will have the use of the Apple Loft, the Cider House, the Studio, the Summerhouse - delightfully converted outbuildings offering a range of ensuite twins, ensuite and standard singles. In the evening Lizzie will cook us delicious dinners. Lizzie and John grow many of their own vegetables, have a small herd of cattle and "a flock of organic chickens that lay the most delicious free-range eggs in the world (probably)!" Goathurst village is easy to reach from the M5 or by taxi from either Bridgwater Station (5 miles) or Taunton station (9 miles). Guided by Chrissie. (Single suppl per night: £5 standard, £10 ensuite).

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Travel - nearest train stations: Taunton or Bridgewater, then taxi to the Farm.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals, any transport to walks, + guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
This new short break is based at the Castle & Ball hotel in the attractive town of Marlborough offering Low Intermediate length walks from Avebury and onto the Marlborough Downs. We'll see Avebury's striking 5000 year old stone circle which has been designated a World Heritage Site, and walk down West Kennet Avenue - an avenue of standing stones leading to the Sanctuary. We will also see fascinating Silbury Hill on our way to West Kennet Long Barrow - an ancient burial chamber that we can enter. On the last day we can head up onto the lovely beautiful Marlborough Downs or walk over Fyfield Down with its numerous Sarsen stones and stunning views. The Castle & Ball offers beautifully decorated ensuite twins and plenty of ensuite singles (Ensuite single suppl. £15 a night). In the evening we can choose from the hotel's delicious menu, or go out to eat (evening meals are not included: from £15). The hotel has parking, or Bedwyn station is 7 miles by taxi or good bus service. (Avebury entrance fee: £4.70. NT members free).

Travel - nearest train station: Bedwyn, then 7 mile taxi or bus ride to Malborough.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, transport to walks, + guided walks.

Not included: Evening meals - from £15; Avebury entrance fee of £4.70 (National Trust members free).

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
This gentle Wye Valley break is based at the comfortable Royal George Hotel near Tintern Abbey where quality ensuite double rooms are available as singles. This lovely area is steeped in history and rich in wildlife, archaeology, and industrial remains. Here the River Wye forms the boundary between England and Wales, and King Offa built his famous dyke near the English bank. In places ancient woodland clings to the steep sides of dramatic limestone gorge, while elsewhere the river is boarded by tranquil meadows. Our first walk will take us across the river, and up to Brockweir Bridge before returning along the opposite bank. There is a local vineyard to visit, and we can stop for tea and home-made cakes at the old station. On other days we'll take the bus and walk to the spectacular Eagle's Nest viewpoint or explore historic tracks towards Angidy. After walking we can explore Tintern village with its old pubs, tourist shops and craft galleries. Tintern is easy to reach by road or rail - close to the M4 & M5, or a 6-mile taxi or bus ride from Chepstow station. (Ensuite single supplement £15 a night).

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Travel - nearest train station: Chepstow, then taxi or bus to Tintern.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals, any transport to walks, + guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
The long Northumberland Coast has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - mile upon mile of almost deserted sands, traditional seaside towns, historic castles, and rolling surf… This holiday is based at Bamburgh, once home to heroine Grace Darling, and overlooked by magnificent 11th century Bamburgh Castle. Our walks will take us along the coast in each direction - to Seahouses with its harbour, lifeboat station, and many small cafes; and to Budle Bay returning over the dunes behind Budle Point. On one day we'll take the bus to Embleton and head for Craster, famous for its kippers, and walk back past the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. We will also walk on Holy Island, otherwise known as Lindisfarne, crossing the causeway at low tide and being sure to return before the tide rises! This holiday with Pam is based at Sunningdale Hotel in Bamburgh - a friendly, family-owned hotel with a good number of ensuite single rooms available (Ensuite single supplement £12.50 a night).

Travel - nearest train station: Berwick-upon-Tweed, then bus to Bamburgh.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals, any transport to walks, + guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
Here is a fab 4-night Easter holiday for those who love high level walking in the Lake District. From Grasmere we can tackle majestic Helvellyn - the 3rd highest peak in England - via the path to Grisedale Tarn, then on up over Dollywaggon Pike to reach the summit, leaving the superb views over Thirlmere for our descent. The fabulous Fairfield Horseshoe is also close by - with dramatic views of St Sunday Crag and Helvellyn's ridges from the summit. From neighbouring Great Langdale we can walk the striking Crinkle Crag ridge and Bow Fell, or perhaps have a shorter foray on the Langdale Pikes for our last day. This exciting holiday is based at Glenthorne Guest House in Grasmere which has lovely rooms, excellent food, and a large garden with views in 3 directions. Guided by Beryl. (Ensuite single suppl. £10 a night).

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Travel - nearest train station: Windermere, then frequent bus from the station forecourt to Grasmere, + 4 mins walk to the guest house.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals, + guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
Here is a new section of the beautiful Thames Path - walking upstream from Henley to Dorchester while staying for 5 nights at the George Hotel in the attractive riverside village of Pangbourne. The walks will be mostly flat and up to 9 miles in length, taking the train from Pangbourne station 5 minutes away to a new starting point each day. We'll begin at Henley-on-Thames, home of the world-renowned Royal Regatta, then pass the delightful villages of Shiplake and Sonning on our way to Reading. Thence we make for Mapledurham, made famous by the Forsyte Saga, to Goring Gap where the river squeezes through heavily-wooded escarpments, finishing with the historic riverside towns of Wallingford and Dorchester. The George Hotel has plenty of ensuite singles available - no supplement to pay! In the evenings, we will eat at the hotel's cozy Pang Bistro on 3 nights, and go out to eat on 2 evenings (2 meals out are not included - from £15). Pangbourne is easy to reach by train and the hotel has ample free parking. Guided by Caroline.

Travel - nearest train station: Pangbourne station, then short taxi ride to the hotel (or a 5 minute walk).

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, 3 evening meals, any transport to walks, + guided walks.

Not included: 2 restaurant evening meals - from £15.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
This Easter, Heidi & Yvonne offer you a choice of Gentle and Intermediate walks from comfortable Losehill Hall near Castleton where the landscapes of the White and the Dark Peak meet. You can choose the grade you prefer: Gentle walks include the Hope Valley and fascinating Cavedale nearby; a visit to the Blue John Cavern, a gentle walk in Edale, or we might want to stretch ourselves for fabulous views from Mam Tor by taking a gently ascending route onto this stunning broad ridge. Intermediate walks will include more ridges and moors - the Great Ridge of Rushup Edge, Mam Tor and Losehill; the striking Kinder Edges from Edale; Win Hill ridge with its fab views over Ladybower reservoir; or the circuit of Abney Moor from Brough or Bradwell. Losehill Hall is a lovely old Victorian mansion set in its own extensive grounds 10 mins walk from Castleton village, and we've reserved all ensuite singles without a supplement. Losehill Hall is the National Peak Park Study Centre, run on eco-centre lines (everything is recycled, ensuite showers instead of baths, communal tea/coffee facilities…). The Hall has a good bar, a comfortable lounge, and the food served in the dining room is excellent.

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Travel - nearest train station: Hope Station, then 2 mile taxi ride to Losehill Hall.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals, any transport to walks, + a choice of guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
Here is a great new venue allowing us to explore the stunning North Yorkshire coast and nearby Yorkshire Moors. Sneaton Castle centre is situated in extensive grounds above the picturesque seaside resort and ancient harbour of Whitby. This refurbished 19th century castle offers plenty of comfortable ensuite single rooms and good home-cooked food. From here we can explore the fabulous Cleveland coast - heading south past the beautiful ancient ruins of Whitby Abbey to Robin Hoods Bay, or north to Runswick Bay and the attractive old fishing port of Staithes. Inland we can reach the heather-clad North York Moors - Heartbeat country - to enjoy a fab circuit on Fylingdales Moor, or the 'Glaisdale Round' if we feel up for it! On the last morning we can even take the steam train to Goathland station (used to film Harry Potter's 'Hogsmead') and walk to Mallyan Spout waterfall. Some of these walks may be up to 10 miles in length to give you the best walks of the area. Guided by Helen.

Travel - nearest train station: Scarborough, then a bus to Whitby & taxi up the hill to Sneaton Castle Centre.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals, all transport to walks, + guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
Here is the first of two opportunities this spring with Sheila Gwyn to sample some of the very best intermediate walks on both the north and south coasts of Cornwall's superb Penwith Peninsula. At Easter the wild flowers will be coming into bloom in this more temperate corner of England. This holiday is based at the very comfortable Chy-an-Albany Hotel overlooking St Ives. From here we can explore this wild and rugged granite coastline with the sea always present and where seals and dolphins are often seen. On some days we will have transport to the gentler south coast or venture inland. Walks can include places like Sennen Cove, Lands End, Porthcurno, Mullion Cove, Porthleven, and Marazion with its close proximity to St Michael's Mount. There will also be a day off from walking to explore St Ives with its many art galleries, cafes, narrow streets, and white sandy beaches. At the 3* Chy-an-Albany Hotel we have reserved all ensuite single rooms without a supplement! (Or you can pay less to share an ensuite twin if you prefer - just ask us). The hotel stands in its own grounds overlooking St Ives Bay, 10 minutes walk from the town centre and picturesque harbour, and a 2 minute uphill walk from the train station (or a very short taxi ride). This holiday is priced on a full board basis, including evening meals in the hotel restaurant. (No single supplement to pay).

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Travel - nearest train station: St Ives station, then walk or very short taxi to hotel.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals, all transport to walks, + guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
A unique walking holiday exploring the Turkish coast and staying in ensuite twin or single cabins on a traditional, crewed sailing yacht. Over the holiday we will journey between Marmaris and Fethiye, sometimes cruising, but usually walking to the next rendezvous point along forested tracks and quiet lanes with views to the mountains, the woods, or out over the islands along this lovely coast. The walks will vary to suit the terrain, averaging low intermediate in grade with one steeper ascent. Walking to Dalyan village we will catch a river boat to the mud baths and ruins at Caunos, while on other days there may be 2-3 shorter walks with sailing in between - to take in Cleopatra's Bath, other Roman ruins and tombs, or the sunset from Yassica Island. On the last day there can be an optional excursion to view the amazing Saklikent Gorge and the ruins of Tlos - or you might prefer a relaxing day on the boat, swimming from a nearby beach or visiting the local hammam for a Turkish bath. The holiday is priced on a full board basis with delicious meals served on deck in the evening. (Ensuite single cabin supplement £10 a night)

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Flight to Dalaman is not included. 1 hr Transfer IS included!
Our 2 separate minibus transfers will meet the following flights:

• Thomas Cook from Manchester arriving at 15.25 (TCX 345)
• Easyjet from Gatwick arriving at 22.15 (EZ 8847)
• Please speak to us before you book any other flight than these!
• We are happy to book your flight for you, but we now charge a WW flight booking fee of £10 - our apologies.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, & evening meals; transfers meeting certain flights; all walks transport; excursion to Caunos ruins & mud baths; + guided walks.

Not included: Flight to Dalaman from Gatwick or Manchester with Easyjet.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
The Alpujarras stretch from the Sierra Nevada watershed in the north to the Mediterranean in the south and create a paradise for walkers. Moorish influences can still be seen in the little villages with narrow streets and white-washed houses that seem to hang on the hillsides. Forest tracks and intermediate mountain paths wind through a landscape rich in wildlife - boar, ibex, foxes, wild cats, and many birds, while in the valleys vines, almonds and olives are grown and mules still toil in the fields. This holiday is based on the edge of Los Berchules village with a backdrop of the snowcapped Cerro Gordo. Hotel Los Berchules offers good ensuite twin rooms and plenty of singles, a comfortable bar and lounge with an open fire for cooler evenings, a wide outside terrace with lovely views, and tasty evening meals of tapas and other regional dishes. On two evenings we will go out to eat in mountain restaurants (these 2 evening meals are not included - from £10). Guided by Marian. (Ensuite single supplement £10 a night).

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Flight to Malaga is not included. 2.30 hr Transfer IS included!
Flights to Malaga that meet our transfer time are available from most UK airports. Book early for the best prices! The transfer from Malaga airport to Los Berchules is included in the cost of the holiday. There will be 2 transfer vehicles to reduce waiting time at the airport.

• Outgoing transfer leaves Malaga at 14.45
• Return transfer arrives back to Malaga at 09.00
• Please speak to us before you book a flight that doesn't fit these transfer times. NB there is no direct public bus from Malaga to Los Berchules.
• You can book your flight on the Internet, or we are happy to book it for you if you prefer (WW flight booking fee of £10).

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, 5 evening meals, transfers meeting certain flights, & all transport to walks, + guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
Within easy reach of the South, the Cotswolds is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with sleepy villages built of mellow Cotswold stone, and rolling hills full of delightful low level walks. This weekend break is based at the very comfortable and friendly Cleeve Hill House Hotel which lies only 100 yards from the Cotswold Way at Cleeve Hill and shares the same superb vantage point. From here we can make a wide meandering circuit of Cleeve Hill with views in all directions, or there's a lovely walk from the un-spoilt village of Winchcombe, stopping to see the wonderful gardens at Sudeley Castle. There can also be an extra walk on Friday afternoon if you can arrive by 1pm. Cleeve Hill House Hotel is beautifully decorated with ensuite rooms - mainly doubles that we can take as singles, and two attractive and spacious twin rooms with very good views (Ensuite single supplement £10 a night). Delicious breakfasts are served in the light and airy conservatory, and in the evening we can eat at the hotel, or stroll out to sample good eating places in the village. Cleeve Hill is 15 minutes by taxi from Cheltenham station. (Evening meals are not included - from £15).

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Travel - nearest train station: Cheltenham, then taxi to Cleeve Hill.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, + guided walks.

Not included: Evening meals not included - from £15

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
The Shropshire hills invite exploration: the Long Mynd, Raglith, Caer Caradoc, the Stiperstones - wonderful names steeped in history, all with far-reaching views towards the Brewyn Hills or the Welsh Mountains. This short Shropshire break with Catherine is based in Little Stretton, staying at Mynd House with its beautifully decorated twin rooms or double rooms taken as singles (Single suppl. £10 a night). From here we'll have easy access to the Long Mynd or over Raglith to Caer Caradoc where Caradoc is reputed to have made his last stand against the Romans. Mynd House has a cosy lounge with a small bar, and a dining room where Sue & Dave will serve delicious evening meals). Little Stretton is easy to reach by car or public transport.

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Travel - nearest train station: Church Stretton, then 1 mile taxi to Little Stretton.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals, + guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
On this Lake District holiday we might start with the lovely lakeshore path beside Grasmere and Rydal Water, returning via Rydal Cave and Loughrigg Terrace for its stunning view over the lake. The wooded bridle path to Rydal village is also delightful, and we might stop at White Moss Common for the view - or at Rydal Hall for tea beside its tumbling beck. We can walk to beautiful Loughrigg Tarn (a small lake), or climb the path beside Sour Milk Gill waterfall to Easedale Tarn in the hills. There are woodland paths where we might hear woodpeckers, the wild valley of Far Easedale to explore, or the stunning views from Dow Bank - whatever we feel up to and have time for! We will stay at comfortable Glenthorne Guest House in Grasmere village - offering very good food, ensuite twin rooms and standard singles without a supplement (Ensuite single supplement £10 a night). Guided by Brenda.

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Travel - nearest train station: Windermere, then frequent bus from the station forecourt to Grasmere, + 4 mins walk to the guest house.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals + guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
Over the holiday we will journey between Marmaris and Fethiye, sometimes cruising, but usually walking to the next rendezvous point along forested tracks and quiet lanes with views to the mountains, the woods, or out over the islands along this lovely coast. The walks will vary to suit the terrain, averaging low intermediate in grade with one steeper ascent. Walking to Dalyan village we will catch a river boat to the mud baths and ruins at Caunos, while on other days there may be 2-3 shorter walks with sailing in between - to take in Cleopatra's Bath, other Roman ruins and tombs, or the sunset from Yassica Island. On the last day there can be an optional excursion to view the amazing Saklikent Gorge and the ruins of Tlos - or you might prefer a relaxing day on the boat, swimming from a nearby beach or visiting the local hammam for a Turkish bath. The holiday is priced on a full board basis with delicious meals served on deck in the evening. (Ensuite single cabin supplement £10 a night).

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Flight to Dalaman is not included. 1 hr Transfer IS included!
Our 2 separate minibus transfers will meet the following flights:

• Thomas Cook from Manchester arriving at 15.25 (TCX 345)
• Easyjet from Gatwick arriving at 22.15 (EZ 8847)
• Please speak to us before you book any other flight than these!
• We are happy to book your flight for you, but we now charge a WW flight booking fee of £10 - our apologies.

All includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals; transfers meeting certain flights; all transport to walks; excursion to Caunos ruins & mud baths; + guided walks.

Not included: Flight to Dalaman from Gatwick or Manchester with Easyjet.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
This holiday is based in the small market town of Rothbury at the comfortable Coquetvale Hotel where there are many ensuite single rooms available (Ensuite single supplement £10 a night). Rothbury is a picturesque small town beside the River Coquet with plenty of small shops and tea shops we can investigate after walking. From Garleigh Moor and Simonside we hope to have spectacular views to the sea at Druridge Bay and north to the purple Cheviot Hills. The valley scenery is special in a different way: rolling green fields dotted with sheep as we walk to the pretty hamlets of Holystone and Sharpeton; views over the meandering River Coquet as we look back down the valley; or the extensive woods and grounds of Cragside full of exotic trees where we might see red squirrels. The whole of Coquetdale is steeped in history - from ancient settlements and Stone Age rock art on Garleigh Moor, to tranquil Lady's Well pool at Holystone. This holiday is priced on a part board basis, including breakfast & packed lunches. In the evening we can eat in the excellent Italian restaurant at the hotel, or sample other good eating places nearby (Evening meals not included - from £12). Regular buses from Morpeth stop closeby. Guided by Pam.

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Travel - nearest train station: Morpeth, then bus from near the train or from the bus station to Rothbury.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, + guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Fuller detail
This new short break is based at the Castle & Ball hotel in the attractive town of Marlborough, offering Gentle walks from Avebury and onto the Marlborough Downs. We'll see Avebury's striking 5000 year old stone circle which has been designated a World Heritage Site, and walk down West Kennet Avenue - an avenue of standing stones leading to the Sanctuary. We will also see fascinating Silbury Hill on our way to West Kennet Long Barrow - an ancient burial chamber that we can enter. On the last day we can head up onto the lovely beautiful Marlborough Downs or walk over Fyfield Down with its numerous Sarsen stones and stunning views. The Castle & Ball offers beautifully decorated ensuite twins and plenty of ensuite singles (Ensuite single suppl. £15 a night). In the evening we can choose from the hotel's delicious menu, or go out to eat (evening meals are not included: from £15). The hotel has parking, or Bedwyn station is 7 miles by taxi or good bus service. (Avebury entrace fee: £4.70. NT members free).

Travel - nearest train station: Bedwyn, then 7 mile taxi or bus ride to Malborough.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, transport to walks + guided walks.

Not included: Evening meals from £15; Avebury entrance fee of £4.70 (National Trust members free).

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

Arrangements

UK holidays - Arrival & Departure details

The first date given for a holiday is the day you arrive. We don't walk on that day, except perhaps for an evening stroll to get to know each other. You can usually get into your room from 2pm. Your guide will arrive by 5pm and will leave a message at reception to say where she'll be at that time. Dinner is generally at 7pm - so do tell us if you think you will be late in case we can hold your meal. The walks start at a convenient time after breakfast each day. Their length depends on the grade and sometimes we might change a walk because of the weather. The walk on the last day is shorter, and we are generally back by 2pm for trains from 3pm. However, on weekend breaks and treks - especially if intermediate and high level - we are generally not back till 3pm for trains from 4pm. When booking a weekend or a trek, please tell us if you will need to leave earlier than this.

Accommodation

The accommodation we book for the holidays varies hugely - from charming small hotels and inns, to moderately priced guesthouses, and ideally-located hostels and mountain refuges. The prices are based on you sharing a room with another member of the group unless it says otherwise. Singles with or without a supplement are often available if you book early. All supplements are given as a figure per night. In hostels and refuges you mostly sleep in bunk beds sharing a dormitory with other members of the group. Help yourself to a free welcome cuppa from the Member's Kitchen when you arrive! For much more accommodation information see our Accommodation page

Frequent Walker Miles!

It's very gratifying how many women return for more WalkingWomen holidays after their first experience. So we've introduced 'Frequent Walker Miles' as a way of giving something back to you. This means that if you come on 3 holidays in a calendar year, we'll take £20 pounds off the 3rd one - and again off the 6th!

Trekking

If 'trekking' to you means days of slogging with the kitchen sink on your back - forget it! We use the words 'Trekking' or 'Trek' to refer to holidays that involve walking to a new place most days, allowing us to get off the beaten track and reach more remote places like the stunning Western Lakes or a high Alpine valley. We transport the luggage by taxi or porters wherever possible, and on trips where this is not possible we clarify in the holiday description the number of days you will carry extra gear. A trekking day can sometimes be a little longer than a day walk of the same grade and there isn't the same flexibility to take a day off as with other holidays, so please choose the grade with special care. The reward is the satisfaction of having walked there and seeing a new valley come into view. If a UK trek is not circular we arrange transport back to the starting point or nearest station for free or for a shared charge (see the holiday description & travel directions).

Taking time out - other things to do

Whether you walk each day is up to you; it's only tricky if you want to take time out on a trekking day! There are lots of other things to do - either for a day off or after walking. You might also want to walk on your own for a day, or sit under a tree to read, paint, or do nothing!

Travel directions

Travel directions and a list of what to bring will be sent to you with your confirmation of booking. You will also find a lot of useful information on the Travel & Gear page of this website. We confirm the booking after you have paid the deposit. If you would like to see travel directions before you book, just email us for a copy.

Dogs

WalkingWomen has been set up to cater for the needs and safety of women who want to walk. Assistance dogs (e.g 'blind' dog, 'hearing' dog etc) are permitted on all WW holidays and at all UK accommodations we use. Non-assistance dogs are allowed at some accommodations we use (see below), but will only be allowed to join walks if they are well behaved around people and sheep, are under control at all times, and are not likely to be experienced as threatening due to their size or breed. If the guide feels that your dog is endangering or annoying other women, you will be asked to make other arrangements even if it means that you cannot join the walk. For this reason, please consider carefully whether your dog is sufficiently well behaved and non-threatening to others before bringing him or her on a holiday - and please let us know beforehand.

Dogs are only permitted at the hotels we use in: Great Langdale, Derwent Water, and Lulworth Cove. Dogs are also exceptionally allowed at Glenthorne when we take the whole guest house for ourselves - e.g Christmas. (Accommodations often charge extra for cleaning).

If you are frightened of or allergic to dogs, please avoid holidays at the above locations since even if there is no dog ' in the group', there may be other dogs staying at the hotel. If you are very allergic to dogs, please let us know in case there is an Assistance dog as part of the group.

Foreign Holidays - Flights, ATOL, transfers…

On most WW foreign holidays your guide will meet you at your departure airport if she is flying on the same flight, or look for her as you come into the Arrivals hall at your destination. We include the transfer to your accommodation on practically all foreign holidays. Please see your holiday details sheet for the time of this transfer and/or the flights that it meets.

The cost of your flight is not included in any 2010 holiday price. There simply hasn't been time for Sue Donovan, the new owner of WalkingWomen, to obtain an ATOL licence in her own name before the brochure went to print. We can, however, buy your flight on our agent's ATOL licence for all those holidays which were previously ATOL protected in the WW programme (Nepal, South Africa, La Gomera, & Crete), and for any other scheduled or charter flights that may be an option on some holidays. Our agent for long haul destinations (i.e Nepal & South Africa) usually only requests a deposit for your flight until 10 weeks before departure.

For holidays involving budget airlines we are happy to buy your flight for you on your card if you do not have the Internet access or the time to buy it yourself. If your payment card requires a security code for online purchases, we will need to contact you back for these details in order to get the payment put though.

More and more countries are requiring advance passenger information (called API or APIS) as an anti-terrorism measure. Some are starting to introduce this retrospectively for flights already purchased. So for all flight purchases we now ask for your passport number + its issue date, expiry date, & place of issue; your nationality; and your date of birth. It is because of the increased admin involved in buying flights today that we have started to charge a flight booking fee of £10 - please accept our apologies.

If you buy your own flight...

WalkingWomen arranges the airport transfer to your destination on most foreign holidays to keep arrangements simple and affordable. If you are buying your own flight, please first check your holiday information sheet to see which flight/s will suit this transfer in each direction, (or for details of our transfer time). Your guide will usually be travelling on this flight or she will meet you as you come through from Baggage Reclaim at your destination. WalkingWomen is not responsible for your transfer if you arrive at a different time or on a different flight than the one we have detailed. Most of our holidays are based at some distance from the airport, and it will often be difficult or expensive for you to arrange your own transfer. Please contact the WW office before buying a different flight from the one/s given on your Holiday Information Sheet.

Insurance essential on foreign holidays

If you book a foreign holiday with WalkingWomen it is essential that you have sickness and injury insurance. Insurance against your having to cancel is highly recommended on ALL holidays.

If you want very competitive annual insurance, try Essential Travel on 0845 803 5434 or Columbus Direct Insurance on 0870 033 9988 . Columbus will also take an additional 10% off is you say you're booking with WalkingWomen. Age Concern (0845 600 3348) is the most competitive insurance we've found if you are over 65 years. If you hear of a direct insurance company offering better rates, please do let us know!

Insurance on UK holidays?

If you are taken ill at the last minute and cannot come on holiday, you might also be very glad to have cancellation insurance in place. Many companies offer very competitive rates for short breaks, or for an annual travel insurance policy that covers all your holidays over the year. Try Essential Travel Insurance or Columbus Direct Insurance above.

What is included in our prices

• Every holiday/break price is inclusive of: the walks and guides; any activities that are specified as part of the break; and guides for special interest holidays. There are walks arranged for every day apart from the day you arrive, and shorter on the last day. You can walk every day or take time out whenever you feel like it (this is not possible on a trekking day when we have a new destination to reach).

• Unless we say otherwise prices include: all luggage transport on trekking holidays; transport to walks or across a lake on a ferry if it's a necessary part of the walk for that day; transfer from a foreign airport to the holiday venue, usually at a particular time to meet certain flights.

• All accommodation is included for the number of nights specified, plus full or part board per number of nights (see individual holidays in the Calendar). Where full board is not provided it is generally because you will get a more economic deal with part board. Full board means that all breakfast, packed lunch, & evening meals are included. If the holiday is 'part board' please check the holiday details for clarification. In B&Bs/hotels the price is based on you sharing a room, with a friend or another woman from the walking group. In youth hostels and refuges it is based on you sharing a dormitory. Very exceptionally in alpine refuges we might have to share with individuals not from the group. The price and availability of single and ensuite supplements is given in the holiday details as a figure per night (see the page number referred to in the Calendar).

Each holiday/break clearly states what is included in the cost of the holiday. We are not able to cover costs for any other activity you may choose to do besides walking eg. bike hire, cream teas, refreshments apart from those provided as part or full board, entrance fees unless specified as included, public or private transport separate from that used during a walk. If you are in any doubt, please phone us.