Holiday Outlines - Late Summer 2008

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Derwent Water is the lovely island-dotted lake next to Keswick in the northern Lakes. Skiddaw rises impressively behind the town, while Borrowdale with its crags and wooded promontories starts at the far end of the lake. For this holiday we'll be staying in the comfortable Howe Keld Hotel in Keswick near to the lake and the Keswick Launch landing stage - which we'll use to reach walks around the lake or shorten our journey home when needed. There are many lovely gentle walks in this area, perhaps starting with the path along the far lake shore for its excellent views down the lake to Borrowdale and back to lofty Skiddaw. Or there's the rewarding walk to Watendlath past pretty Ashness bridge and 'Surprise View', then on beside a rushing beck where otters have been sighted. Watendlath is a little hamlet with a teashop next to its own tarn. On another day, we could walk to famous Lodore falls which are impressive after rain, or take the launch to Borrowdale at the head of the lake to stroll through its magnificent woods. In the evening we go out to eat together - exploring some of Keswick's very good eating places (evening meals not included - from £15). The Howe Keld Hotel has been recently refurbished. It is reknown among WalkingWomen for the quality of their breakfasts - including a delicious vegetarian option. The walk is 4 minutes walk from the bus stop where the Penrith bus stops - making this venue easy to reach by train.

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Helvellyn is the second highest peak in England, and its Grizedale Tarn path can be reached just across the valley, saving 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 from the summit, and all of Grasmere and Windermere spread out below us as we descend. From neighbouring Great Langdale we can also walk the Crinkle Crag ridge and climb Bow Fell, or perhaps have a shorter foray on the Langdale Pikes on 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.

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Built in AD 122 during the time of Emperor Hadrian to "separate the Romans from the barbarians", Hadrian's Wall is Europe's largest surviving Roman monument and a UNESCO world heritage site. This new holiday is based at Once Brewed Youth Hostel - a modern hostel in a prime location for exploring some of the most spectacular sections of the Wall as well as the beautiful countryside beyond. On our first day we might walk eastwards along the Wall from Steel Rigg, with lots of ups and downs to blow the cobwebs away. We'll pass milecastles, turrets, and Robin Hood's tree on our way to Housesteads fort - the most complete Roman fort in Britain, then return over moorland via the bird hide at lovely Greenlee Lough (lake). The next day we could take the bus to Birdoswald, the fort with the most picturesque setting overlooking the River Irthing. Here there is a good circular walk, partly along the Wall, then heading off through the hamlet of Upper Denton and a pretty wooded gorge up onto a spur formed by the river meandering below. On our third day we can take the bus west to Gisland - once a little spa town - and walk back along a dramatic craggy stretch of Wall to Steel Rigg with fabulous views over the surrounding countryside. When we arrive back we may well feel we have earned a visit to the Once Brewed pub. On our last day we could visit Vindolanda Fort where many fascinating Roman artefacts have been excavated, and we could walk up onto Barcombe Fell for a last view of Hadrian's Wall to the west before we travel home. (Nearest train station is Bardon Mill 2.5 miles away by taxi).

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The Horse & Groom is a 17th Century pub in the quiet rural setting of East Ashling on the edge of the Downs, a short taxi ride from Chichester. From here we can walk through the fantastic ancient yew trees of Kingley Vale and up onto the Downs for superb views both inland and across Chichester harbour to the sea. On one day we will also visit Bosham - a key port in Saxon and medieval times - walking around the harbour and across farmland to the furthest inland reach of the sea at Chichester where a reedy wilderness creates a sanctuary for waders and other water birds. The Inn's bedrooms are all located away from bar noise in two beautifully converted adjacent barns. Furthermore, these ensuite twin and double bedrooms can all be taken as singles with no extra supplement. Evening meals are not included - from £15. (The pub has no separate residents lounge).

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Grasmere is one of the most central yet easily reached villages in the Lake District - with stunning scenery that has inspired poets and artists alike. There's also lots to do after walking - from visiting Dove Cottage, to tea shops and water-colour studios. We'll be staying at Glenthorne Guest House not far from the village centre, with wonderful views in three directions, comfortable bedrooms, and excellent food! From here there are wonderful Gentle walks to explore. We might start with the lovely walk 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 - or 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. On other days there are woodland paths where we might see deer or hear woodpeckers, the wild valley of Far Easedale for a secluded dip, or the stunning views from higher Dow Bank - whatever we feel like and have time for!

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This weekend break with Jo M is based in the ancient village of Hartington in Derbyshire and will allow us to explore walks in the beautiful Upper Dove Valley. Our paths beside the river will take us into spectacular limestone scenery, perhaps climbing to the unspoilt village of Alstonfield on one day, or heading north to the quiet upper reaches of the Manifold River on the other. Our accommodation will be in ensuite singles, ensuite twins, and one triple bedroom with shared 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 (+ table licence), 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. Dinner is served from 6-10pm, but we will aim to eat together at 7pm. (Single supplement £4 a night).

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This holiday is based just outside Sandwich in the village of Worth, 5 minutes taxi ride from Sandwich station. Sandwich is one of the medieval Cinque Ports like Hastings or Rye, and although it no longer lies next to the sea, the surrounding Kent countryside is rich in historical interest while its coastal mudflats and salt marshes are a Special Area of Conservation. From Worth village we can walk through the older part of Sandwich and out into the countryside to see Richborough fort and amphitheatre - possibly the most symbolically important Roman site in Britain. On another day we can walk to the sea and along the coast to Deal, stopping at Sandwich Bird Observatory on the way to see what we can see. There can also be a shorter walk to Pegwell Bay where the Saxons and St Augustine landed in the 5th century AD. You see, it was all happening here! In Worth you have a choice of accommodation between Solley Farm House - a superb 5 star B&B (£255) and St Crispins Inn across the road (£225) - a traditional 15th century pub where we will no doubt all eat in the evening (evening meals not included - from £15). You can arrive from 2pm. We will aim to order our meal on the first night at 6.30pm.

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This very popular De Hoope Whale Trail trip starts with a flight to Cape Town where we'll have 5 days enjoying this extraordinary city and beautiful walks like the Lion's Head, the Contour Path, Kirstenbosch Gardens, and maybe Table Mountain by cable car. We then drive to the stunning De Hoope Whale Trail above the Indian Ocean - a 5-day intermediate trek where you carry a day pack only and walk through the wild scenery and flowers of the De Hoope Nature Reserve to a stretch of coast where the Southern Right whales come inshore to mate or give birth. Sometimes up to 50 of these sea giants can be seen at one time from the cliff path where we'll be walking. We can also dip down to swim in rock pools and walk along beautiful stretches of beach before climbing to our next 'cottage' on the cliffs. These cottages are relatively comfortable in that each has a kitchen, shared rooms with bunk beds, solar power and warm water (usually!). After the trek, we stay at the Windsor Hotel in the small resort town of Hermanus for 2 nights - walking in a nature reserve, eating out overlooking the sea and whales, or taking a whale watching boat trip. We will then detour to Cape Point - the very tip of Africa - on our way back to our Cape Town B&B for the last night. In Cape Town before and after the trek there'll be time to visit Robben Island, the townships, the market, the Waterfront, and to eat out in great restaurants (eve. meals in Cape Town & Hermanus not included - from £10).

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Includes: Return KLM fight via Amsterdam; 14 nights away in total - 13 of them in SA; breakfast & packed lunches in Cape Town & Hermanus, all meals on trek; all transfers & transport to walks & trek; Luggage portage on trek; NP Conservation fees; Cape Point entrance fees. Atol No. 6497
Not included: 8 Cape Town & Hermanus evening meals, Table Mountain cable car, & non-walking 'extras' you might like to include like Robben Island visit & the Township tour (approx £47), or Whale Watching Boat Trip (approx £40).

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Away from the crowds, this August B/H break has exclusive use of High Trenhouse near tranquil Malham Tarn in the Yorkshire Dales - a beautifully converted farm and outbuildings on the edge of the moors above Malham Cove and Gordale. The Pennine Way from Malham Cove passes close by on its way to Fountains Fell and Pen-y-ghent, and across the moors are interesting paths to the pretty village of Arncliffe and the lively town of Settle with its tearooms and small shops. High Trenhouse offers a large number of single rooms - a boon for WW groups - and most have ensuite facilities. There are comfortable spaces for relaxing or making our own fun including a small honesty bar. The food is delicious, and there's even a sauna and Jacuzzi - so bring your swimsuit! A choice of Gentle and Intermediate walks each day will allow you to move between the grades to take it easy or stretch according to mood. We will also arrange an inexpensive shared lift from nearby Settle station at approx 4pm.

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A change of grade and route for this popular Western Lakes trek in 2008 - great if you know you have the stamina for Slow High and would love to stay in Black Sail Hut and explore the beautiful Buttermere fells. We meet up at Keswick YH the first afternoon for easy rail access, then set off for Borrowdale YH the next morning along the fabulous High Spy ridge. From here our route takes us over Green Gable and Great Gable, with a scramble down the other side to reach our Ennerdale path. Black Sail Hut in Upper Ennerdale is always an experience - only the fells and the sheep, with no other habitation for miles. It has gas lamps in the dormitories, a coal burning stove in the little common room, a tiny kitchen where the warden cooks up delicious meals, and only one shower (with water heated from the stove). Between Ennerdale and Buttermere lies the High Stile ridge - our challenging route for the next day with the reward of superb views over Buttermere and Crummock Water. Then staying 2 nights at Buttermere YH we will have a chance to explore the exciting Grasmoor fells - or spend an easier day on Haystacks if we prefer. Finally we'll return to Borrowdale via Robinson and the stunning Dale Head ridge, hopefully with great views back over all our route so far. Our last walk will bring us back to Keswick via Watendlath and Walla Crag overlooking Derwent Water - an easier day, but please don't book your train home too early! Luggage is transported for you on each day except for the night at Black Sail where you carry a minimum of spare gear with you.

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The Tour of the Jungfrau region (TJR) is a horseshoe trek among some of the most spectacular scenery in all the Alps. It is a journey into the Bernese Oberland that will leave you awestruck: ridges, summits and passes, glaciers, waterfalls, gorges, beautiful mountain lakes, and always the extraordinary backdrop of the Eiger, Wetterhorn, Silberhorn, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Most of the places you stay are in atmospheric locations with breathtaking views, ranging from Alpine refuges with bunk beds and mattress platforms to comfortable small hotels with twin rooms. At certain points the trek includes short sections of fixed cables and some exposed sections that will stretch your comfort zone. No luggage transport is feasible, so you carry the extra clothes you need in your pack. At the mid point of the trek you'll walk the famous Eiger trail to the foot of the Eiger's north face where the summit will feel within arms' reach. Yet while this trek is strenuous, none of it is technical or at altitude. All bedding is provided so you'll only need a sheet liner. Spare gear can be kept to a minimum, and any unwanted travel gear can be left at the hotel in Interlaken where the holiday starts and finishes. Interlaken is a hub of outdoor activity surrounded by high peaks and turquoise lakes. You can catch the train there from either Geneva or Zurich airport, buying your ticket at the airport station for approximately £54 return. Alternatively you can do the whole journey by train from the UK, leaving in the morning and arriving in Interlaken at 19.35 for approximately £123 return. Whether you fly/train or train/train, we can help you book your tickets. The amazing mountain train from Interlaken to the start of the trek (and similarly finishing our journey back to Interlaken at the end) is included in the price. Guided by Sara B who will meet you in Interlaken station. Group size 8 max.

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This holiday offers an exciting choice of Slow High and High Level mountain walks off the beaten track in the Snowdonia National Park. You choose which high pace suits you best, and you can swap if need be. Some walks will include some scrambling if conditions allow. For this holiday we will be based in the lovely Nantlle Valley at friendly Trigonos Centre - perfect for WW groups with attractive twin rooms and plenty of singles. The glorious Nantlle ridge - one of the best ridge walks in Wales - will be right on our doorstep. Moel Hebog near Beddgelert is another likely choice - steep but rewarding with breathtaking views of Snowdon. We can also tackle the lesser used Snowdon Ranger path up the back of Snowdon, returning over Moel Cynghorion with Llyn Cwellyn lying below. This would leave nearby Mynydd Mawr as an obvious choice for the last day. Trigonos Centre is set in its own grounds near Nantlle lake, and is accessible by 4pm bus from Bangor station.

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Are you a complete beginner or have you already done some climbing before? This Dales climbing holiday with climbing instructors Anita and Mo will cater for both levels. If you are a beginner, you will learn how to climb safely: how to stretch and warm up; use of static ropes, a harness, and other climbing equipment; and how to belay yourself and your partner safely. You will then start climbing on a static rope attached to a climbing wall, developing personal climbing skills to help you move more confidently from hold to hold. If you have done some climbing before, this holiday will help you take your technique further, gaining confidence on harder climbs and extending your range. On the first day we will use Ingleton's excellent climbing wall. We'll move out onto local crags and boulders to built technique and confidence. We can also practice abseiling and bouldering - great to do with other women in a supportive and encouraging environment. Before the end of the holiday there will be an opportunity to learn about different kinds of equipment during a visit to a local climbing shop. For both groups, making new friends to climb with is an additional encouragement to take your climbing further. The holiday is based at Ingleton youth hostel in Ingleton village which is easily reached from the M6. Bentham station is 3 miles away by local taxi. Group size: 2 instructors to 12 women. Helmets, harnesses, and ropes are included. Climbing shoes are not included since some women may already possess a pair (Trainers on the wall or walking boots on rock can also be used, and 'rock shoes' can be hired in Ingleton if you wish - £4 a day).

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The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is too long for most people to manage as one holiday, so here is another wonderful bite-sized portion walking southwest from Goodwick to Whitesands Bay near St Davids. It includes the fabulous wild sea cliffs of Strumble Head as well as easier stretches where lower cliffs and rocky shore give way to tiny harbours and sandy bays. The high cliffs then return as we round St Davids Head till finally we find ourselves looking down on Whitesands Bay and Ramsay Island offshore. In total the holiday covers 30 miles, with between 7-10 miles a day, and 'up's and 'downs' of 270m - 450m a day. You only carry a daypack as your luggage is transported for you when needed. The holiday starts with 2 nights in Goodwick at comfortable Ivybridge G/H (in ensuite twins & singles) while we walk from Goodwick to Pwll Deri, then Pwll Deri to Aber Draw. At Aber Draw we stay at Caerhafod Lodge (in 4-bedded ensuite bunk rooms), strolling down to the sea to eat out in the evening. The last 2 nights are then at the Eco Hotel in St Davids in a mix of ensuite & standard twins and singles. 2 nights here will give us time to visit this lovely little cathedral city and to eat out one evening. On the last morning, we could visit Ramsay Island one mile off the coast if there is time before your return travel. Ramsay is an RSPB nature reserve where hundreds of Guillemots, Razorbills, and Kittiwakes nest on its spectacular high cliffs, grey seals give birth to their pups in September, and we may see porpoises swimming offshore. (Cost £16 - not included as it depends on weather conditions). Goodwick can be reached by train, and there is a frequent bus service from St Davids to Haverfordwest mainline station for the return.

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We'll be spoilt for choice this weekend as there are so many wonderful intermediate walks to do from Grasmere. For ridges we could choose between wild Blea Rigg with its great views of the Langdale Pikes, or the Helm Crag ridge which starts with a stunning view over the whole Grasmere valley. For tarns to swim in if it's hot, there could be secluded Codale Tarn with a descent over Grasmere Common, or even Alcock tarn - climbing afterwards on turf to the ridge for some of the best views of Grasmere and Rydal Water. Or, if we feel adventurous, we could always stretch ourselves for the Langdale Pikes. This weekend is based at comfortable Glenthorne Guest House - always a favourite! Glenthorne is 4 minutes walk from the bus stop in Grasmere village, making it easy to come by train to Windermere.

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This holiday offers a choice of Gentle or Intermediate walks each day - and you can swap between them to stretch yourself or take it easy according to how you feel. Gentle walks will take us into the heart of Borrowdale, following mossy woodland paths where we might see deer and red squirrels, or walking beside the lovely River Derwent for tea at Grange. On other days, we can explore the wilder tributaries of the Derwent - the Langstrath and Seathwaite valleys - with foaming pools that might invite a swim or paddle, and rushing waterfalls if it's been raining. Or we can even go as far as Derwent Water for a peaceful stroll beside the lake - returning by bus if we wish. For Intermediate walks we might warm up climbing the path to Dock Tarn which will give us superb views over Eagle Crag and allow us to reach Watendlath Tarn as well as several less-frequented 'tops' nearby. The next day we might be tempted by the fabulous High Spy ridge where our uphill effort will be rewarded with views in all directions and a lovely descent overlooking Derwent Water. Alternatively we might head for Haystacks overlooking Buttermere, or tackle Glaramara just across the valley. This holiday is based at friendly Glaramara Centre near Seatoller in Borrowdale where there are plenty of standard single rooms available.

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Rum is a diamond shaped jewel of a place - an island of the Inner Hebrides of spectacular wildness and beauty. Its glaciated 'cullins' (high rocks), Askival, Hellival, Trollaval, and Orval, started life near the equator, and are the shattered remnants of a once huge volcano. Apart from its incredible scenery, Rum has been a nature reserve for over 40 years. We may be lucky and see otters fishing along the shores of Loch Scresort, or red deer and wild goats in the heather as we walk. Golden eagles often soar above the Cullins, while Shearwaters nest on their slopes and skim the sea in significant numbers. There are many fabulous high walks to choose from here, often off-path through the heather - along high cliffs overlooking the sea, onto peaks with stunning views, or looking north to the Skye Cullins from beautiful Kilmory Sands. To access the best parts of this island, we will stay for 2 nights in a bothy, walking there low level with 3 days' food and gear, living in very simple bothy conditions with water from a nearby stream and sleeping mats on the floor - a real Scottish walking experience! The rest of the time our base will be the hostel in extraordinary Kinloch Castle near Loch Scresort. Trains run from Glasgow to Malaig, and from Malaig you catch the regular Rum ferry which is a magical journey in itself. Guided by Sue M.

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The Dalmatian island of Brac lies off the coast from Split, threaded by lovely old mule tracks through olive groves and pinewoods. Ancient chapels and monasteries dot the island while along the rocky coast there are pebbly coves that invite a swim and small picturesque fishing resorts. Sutivan is one of these - built of famous Brac stone, and at night you can see the lights of Split across the water. Sutivan has no hotels so we do as Croatians do and stay in small apartments, all within walking distance of Pension Dora whose vine covered courtyard and restaurant/bar we will use as our focal point. Here we will share breakfasts, and meals on 4 evenings. On 3 evenings we'll eat out at seafront restaurants in smaller groups (not included - from £8). The apartments are simple and typically Croatian, some with ensuite rooms, others with 2 single rooms sharing a bathroom and small kitchen. Some have a terrace for relaxing after walking, others have sea views. At Pension Dora there are ensuite twins and singles. Besides a choice of Gentle & Low Intermediate walks, we will also take a day off to enjoy the sea, hire a bike or sea kayak, visit Diocletian's Palace, or simply relax with a book! Guided by Lorraine, Madeline, & local guide Ivana.

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Mull is one of the largest of the Hebridean islands off the west coast of Scotland. It has a long and strikingly beautiful coastline of high cliffs and bays, with caves and rock arches, and views out to the many smaller islands that surround it. Most notable of these is the 'Holy Isle' of Iona where we will walk on one day… Another rewarding visit might be to cathedral-like Fingle's Cave on the island of Staffa, whose geometrical basalt pillars are linked to the Giant's Causeway in Ireland and have even inspired a Mendelssohn overture! On other days we will take beautiful walks along Mull's coastline, stopping at sandy bays, or walking to other famous caves and rock features. Inland, our eyes will often be drawn to the island's only munro, Ben Mor, and from a walk over its lower shoulder there will be striking views back to the coast. We will be staying at women-run Ardachy House Hotel on the south coast, overlooking the deserted sands of Ardalanish Bay and the islands of Jura, Colonsay, and Islay. Iona is only 7 miles away; seals, otters and the elusive Corncrake are regular visitors to the area, and there is a standing stone and Iron Age fort close by... The hotel offers comfortable ensuite twin, double, and single bedrooms, and some of the bedrooms and the residents' lounge have a lovely view towards the sea. Mull is reached by a regular train from Glasgow, then a magical ferry journey from Oban to Craignure. The bus to Iona passes near the Hotel and meets every ferry (approx. £7). Maggie or Cathy from the hotel will then collect you from Bunessan village.

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This peaceful meditation break is guided by Heidi and is based at Glenthorne Guest House in Grasmere. Over these 3 days we will walk and talk, but also find opportunities for silence - stopping somewhere special to sit, be with nature, and find our inner stillness. A willingness to sit in silence and be still is all that is necessary. The caring and sharing of the group will assist in this process of turning down the volume of our busy lives, and participants should leave with a stronger sense of connection with spirit, themselves, and each other. We will be staying at comfortable Glenthorne Guest House in Grasmere which also possesses a conservatory of its own should the weather not be conducive to sitting outdoors. Glenthorne offers good ensuite twin or single rooms (Ensuite single supplement £10 a night). Bring a mat for sitting on, and an extra, sweater or fleece.

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The Abbey Hotel overlooks Tintern Abbey in the Wye Valley - an area 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 from Wales into England across the river, and up to Brockweir Bridge before returning along the opposite bank. There is a local vineyard we could visit, and we can stop at the old railway station for tea and home-made cakes. The next day we might catch the local bus to Chepstow and follow the Wye Valley Walk through the woods to the spectacular viewpoint at Eagle's Nest. Finally we could explore the historic tracks and ancient ironworks towards Angidy. The Abbey Hotel has comfortable ensuite twin and ensuite single rooms (no single supplement) in 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.

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Picturesque white-washed villages with twisting narrow streets…. hillsides covered in aromatic shrubs, or shady olive groves, citrus orchards, and muscatel vineyards… breathtaking views of mountains, or to the Mediterranean in the distance… this is the Sierra Almijara, 35 minutes inland from the Costa del Sol and 40 minutes from Malaga. We'll be staying near the village of Canillas, at Finca el Cerrillo - a beautiful small hotel with lovely rooms and views, and a small swimming pool. Mostly we can walk from the door by exploring lovely paths into Sierra de Tejeda National Park or we can take the bus to a little further afield. With Granada only 2 hours away, there will also be a day off from walking so that you can visit the Alhambra. Alternatively, the beach is 12 miles away by taxi or local bus, and the small town of Comepta with its market and twisting streets is a short taxi ride away.

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The mountains of Mourne are a compact group of mountains in County Down - designated an area of outstanding natural beauty - just over the border in Northern Ireland from the Irish Republic. Seven of these mountains rise to over 700m - the highest being Slieve Donard at 840m - and we hope to climb all of them over this exhilarating 4-day break! The 'Mountains of Mourne roll down to the sea' at Newcastle where we'll stay on the sea front in Newcastle YH. Breakfast and packed lunches will be included, and in the evening we'll go out to eat in small restaurants nearby (eve. meals not included - from £12). From Newcastle we will climb Slieve Bearnagh with its gigantic granite tors which is one of the most exciting peaks in the Mournes, as well as craggy Slieve Binnian with its dramatic views of the Kingdom of Mourne and the sea. We will also walk on the Brandy Pad path created by smugglers and their ponies in the 18th and 19th Centuries. On some days we will find ourselves following the Great Wall of Mourne - a feat of dry stone wall construction. With some steep ascents and descents and rocky bouldery paths, the Mourne Mountains form an ideal high level walking area for a long weekend in the north of Ireland. Furthermore, the Mournes are only 2 hours drive from Dublin, and this is the easiest way to get there if you're coming from the mainland. (Transfer from Dublin Airport to Newcastle is included in the price - see below).

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Shropshire is a beautiful county with rolling hills, meandering rivers, and areas of outstanding natural beauty. One of its most striking features is the Long Mynd (which means 'Long Mountain'), a moorland ridge with many 'batches' and 'hollows' (valleys) to give it shape and provide interesting walking. On these holidays we will be based at the foot of the Mynd in the un-spoilt village of Little Stretton, and we will certainly climb one of Mynd's many valley paths on the first day, reaching the ridge, then walking to its highest point at Pole Bank. From here we should have extensive views west to the Berwyn hills, north to the Stiperstones, and east to Caer Caradoc and Raglith. Carding Mill Valley will then make a lovely descent, and we can stop for tea and cake in Church Stretton on our way back. On the second day we might head east towards Raglith and Caer Carodoc where Caradoc is thought to have made his last stand. This could leave the Golden Valley path onto the Long Mynd from the west - an altogether gentler ascent - for our last day. Mynd House is an Edwardian guest house with beautiful, mostly ensuite twin and single rooms and good views over the Shropshire hills. Each room has its own character, and most are double rooms taken as singles (Single suppl. £10 a night). Two of the rooms - a twin and a single - form a suite with a shared bathroom and superb views that takes up the whole of the 2nd floor. Downstairs there is a cosy lounge with a small bar and diningroom where we will eat on 2 evenings (on the last night we will go out to eat at the village pub - not included, from £12). The nearest train station is at Church Stretton - 1 mile by taxi from where we stay.

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White dolomite mountains, crystal clear lakes, hayracks and traditional villages, river gorges and tumbling waterfalls… Slovenia is surely one of the most beautiful and friendly places to visit in Europe! For this holiday we will be based in Bled on the edges of the Julian Alps - a small resort town beside a jewel of a lake. Bled is surrounded by meadows and beech woods. We can walk on good paths around the lake and into the surrounding countryside to pretty villages with their wooden barns and ornate church spires, and to dramatic Vintgar Gorge. After walking, we can sit in cafés by the lake, visit the castle, and row to the island (or get a boatman to take us there!). On one day we will visit lovely Lake Bohinj to walk along its shore. Here we can also take the Vogel cable car to reach views of the Julian Alps before we catch the ferry back along the lake (Cable car optional - £8). For this holiday we have reserved ensuite single rooms at Penzion Vila Kolinska in a quiet residential part of Bled. In the evening we'll walk back into the centre to explore Bled's good places (evening meals not included - from £12).

See photos from a previous Bled holiday? (was Gentle & Low Intermediate).
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On this weekend there will be two guides to offers both an intermediate and a high level walk each day - great if you like to have a choice, or if you're not yet sure which grade will suit you best. There'll be lovely walks on intermediate fells - like the Helm Crag ridge or wild Blea Rigg with its wonderful views of both Grasmere and Elterwater. Or for striking High Level walks we can head for Helvellyn just across the valley - reached past Grisedale Tarn and Dollywaggon Pike, or climb Fairfield whose two ridges form a horseshoe with many breathtaking views along the way. For this holiday we'll be staying at comfortable Glenthorne Guest House in Grasmere which is always popular with WW groups for its friendliness, lovely garden, comfortable bedrooms (including standard singles without a supplement), and excellent food!

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