The Welsh Slate Trail - I have recently completed the Welsh Slate Trail with Walking Women and can honestly say it was one of the most rewarding walking holidays I have experienced.

This... read more was the first time Walking Women had run this challenge, and it was lovely to have Ginny join us who actively sought feedback throughout the trip. From my perspective, the holiday was exceptionally well organised, from the accommodation and luggage transfers to the thoughtful planning that went into each day.

One of the greatest strengths of the holiday was the women-only group. Despite starting as strangers, camaraderie developed remarkably quickly. Walking through rain, wind, remote landscapes and challenging terrain created a wonderful sense of teamwork, encouragement and friendship. We shared plenty of laughter along the way and finished the week not only with an immense sense of achievement but also with new friendships that I hope will continue on future Walking Women adventures.

The Welsh Slate Trail itself is a remarkable route. The scenery is breathtaking, but what made it truly special was learning about the history of the Welsh slate industry and the lives of the quarry men whose hard work shaped the landscape. It was fascinating, moving and often humbling, putting modern life into perspective.

Our guide was outstanding. Knowledgeable, capable, encouraging and endlessly enthusiastic, she brought the landscape to life through its history, people and communities. It became clear throughout the week that she wasn't simply getting the group from A to B. She was helping us engage with the character of North Wales, its history, its people and its communities. By introducing us to local cafés, community ventures and independent businesses along the route, she added another dimension to the holiday and helped us connect with the places we were walking through.

I was particularly impressed by the thought that had gone into supporting walkers of different abilities. Our guide had contingency plans and alternatives available should anyone need to shorten a day or opt out of a section, ensuring everyone felt supported throughout.

The accommodation was of a very high standard and each hotel had its own unique charm. The staff were welcoming and accommodating, despite regularly greeting nine very wet, tired, but extremely happy walking women at the end of long days on the trail!

One surprise was discovering that we had actually completed close to 100 miles rather than the 83 miles advertised in line with the official trail information. Rather than diminishing the experience, this only increased our sense of achievement at the finish line.

Would I do it again? Absolutely. The changing weather, landscapes and light would make every journey different and just as beautiful. This holiday offered far more than a walking challenge; it combined stunning scenery, fascinating history, local culture, genuine friendship and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment.
I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a challenging, inspiring and exceptionally well-organised walking holiday.

  Isle of Bute Women’s Walking Holiday  - Isle of Bute, beautiful scenery, lots of bird life and seal and otters to be seen- lovely walking, fabulous guide who made sure we were kept well informed and provided... read more spare equipment to those who needed it and was a source of great local knowledge as well as being a very experienced walking guide.
The hotel is a sight to behold, spacious, faded grandeur of past era and the staff were extremely helpful and friendly.
Walking sections of the West Island Way each day offered good level of walking and aided thorough experience of all aspects of the country side this island has to offer

  walking in the Cairngorms - This walking trip in the Cairngorms is only 5 days but it’s long enough to experience the different kinds of landscape and it was easily varied to adjust to when... read more the wind or rain was stronger on the mountains. We stayed in a super warm and cosy guesthouse with easy access to shops and restaurants in Aviemore. We walked through the forest along the river and around the loch. We had superb views of the Cairngorm mountains and surrounding countryside when we walked up a lower mountain across the valley. We were lucky enough to see the tracks of the mountain hares and ptarmigan in the snowy tundra on the Cairngorm mountain itself. It’s really great to see all the native plants and trees returning to Scotland with its rewilding. The yellow gorse and broom in flower as we walked on the Moray coastal trail was spectacular. It’s not just walking as we had a tasting at a family run gin distillery and a visit to a historic whisky distillery where we could see it all working to understand every stage of the production of Speyside whisky.
Our local guide was wonderful she really understands the experience that Walking Women want to provide and we felt we were in very safe hands.

  Week in La Gomera with "Walking Women" - "walking Women" holiday in La Gomera
Very good trip from start of the booking process. I was in a fairly small group (9 people) which suited me very well -... read more mixture of life stories which made the trip very interesting. I was glad it was set up mainly for solo walkers rather than being a single in a group of couples. Varied walks with a knowledgeable guide. Hotel was good quality with lots of facilities.

  Sunshine in February - Thank you, La Gomera! - Our third trip with Walking Women did not disappoint. We traveled to La Gomera in the Canary Islands. This volcanic island provided the shot of sun we needed and perfect... read more walking temps. Our local guide, Rene, was excellent knowledgeable, competent, warm, thorough. We were able to learn some local history, experience regional cuisine and explore a variety of terrains. As per usual, the women who participated in the group were brilliant walking companions. We had a great time and look forward to our next adventure with WW.

  Walking Women's first Ecuador Adventure was Awesome! - 12-Day Ecuador Adventure with Walking Women: Amazon, Galápagos & Unforgettable Magic
I just returned from an extraordinary 12-day Walking Women tour through Ecuador, and I’m still buzzing from the experience.... read more From the lush depths of the Amazon to the surreal beauty of the Galápagos Islands, this trip was a masterclass in thoughtful planning, immersive exploration, and joyful lasting connections with a wonderful group of women.
Organization & Flow:
Every detail was impeccably handled — transfers, accommodations, meals, and excursions flowed seamlessly. Even when an unexpected disturbance required a change in plans, the team pivoted with grace, replacing the original activity with a stunning mountain hike surrounded by hummingbirds and a relaxing soak in natural hot springs. It felt like a gift, not a compromise.
Our Guide Ale – Off the Charts!
Ale was with us for the entire journey, and I can’t overstate how phenomenal she was. Her deep knowledge, warmth, humor, and ability to read the group’s energy made every day feel special. She was the glue that held the experience together — a true gem who elevated the trip from great to unforgettable.
Local Guides & Experiences:
In each region, we were met by expert local guides who brought their ecosystems to life. Whether we were walking through dense jungle, snorkeling in turquoise waters, or spotting wildlife on night hikes, their passion and insight added depth to every moment.
Wildlife Wonders:
Though there was less hiking than expected the abundance of magical encounters more than made up for it:
• Spotting five different types of monkeys swinging through the canopy
• Waiting patiently — and being rewarded — as Macaws burst into view after an hour of quiet anticipation
• Catching a glimpse of a Toucan, vibrant and elusive
• Venturing out on a night hike, discovering lots of unusual critters
• Standing among giant tortoises in the Galápagos, a humbling and awe-inspiring moment
• Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, where we swam alongside sharks, sea turtles, vibrant fish, and all kinds of mesmerizing marine life
• Food & Hospitality:
The meals throughout were consistently delicious — fresh, flavorful, and reflective of the local culture.
• Final Thoughts:
This wasn’t just a tour — it was a journey of connections, discoveries, and delights. Walking Women delivered an experience that was both adventurous and deeply restorative. I’m grateful for every moment, the endless laughs we shared and for Ginny, Ale and Johanna, whose leadership made it all shine.
This is my first trip with Walking Women, and I am already looking at my next adventure with them and would even consider traveling alone now that I have experienced the care and organization that goes into ensuring that everyone has the experience of a lifetime.
Highly recommend the Ecuador Adventure and Walking Women!
Maureen