WALKING & HIKING IN SPAIN

 

TOURS

MAJORCA                                                                                    HIKE & RELAX IN THE CANARY ISLANDS

HECHO VALLEY IN CATALONIA                                     THE WAY OF ST. JAMES

HIKE & RELAX IN NERJA, ANDALUSIA

 

 

 

 

MAJORCA

8 day escorted or independent tours

Majorca is the largest of Spain's Balearic Islands and has many surprises in store for you as you walk from coast to coast through the Sierra de Tramuntana. During this tour you discover the inner life of Majorca on the deserted paths of the island. In the Sierra de Tramuntana and on the coast, you hike through olive groves to charming villages with manor houses and palaces. Enjoy the view of the sea, small islands and the delightful natural landscape.

    

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1:   Arrival at Puerto Alcúdia.

After arriving we have a taxi transfer to the first hotel booked for you.

Day 2: Costal hike on the peninsula Alcúdia

Welcome and orientation meeting this morning, then the start of the first hiking tour. One of the most beautiful walking treks leads between the bay of Pollenca and Alcúdia. We walk along the coast and climb a scenic cliff top to enjoy the panoramic views.

Day 3: Pilgrim path Pollenca - Lluc

Transfer to Pollenca where we follow the historical pilgrim path to Lluc. The high peaks of the Sierra de Tramuntana accompany our walk over the pass passing the Puig Tomir. Shady groves of evergreen oaks, blossoming orchards and meadows line the route. A special highlight waits for us at the monastery Lluc: the botanical garden.

Day 4: Pilgrim path Cuber reservoir - Lluc

In the morning we transfer to the Cuber reservoir, where we start the next part of the pilgrim path to Lluc. Today we walk up high into the Sierra and cross the passes to Lluc. An unusual landscape with high grass, rocks as found in high mountain regions. Sunny views of the steep coast and lush valleys certainly make this day a highlight of your vacation.

Day 5: Pilgrim path Cuber reservoir - Soller

Today we again start at the Cuber reservoir and walk along the beach to the pass L’offres. We follow the serpentine trail up to Es Cornador where we enjoy the best view of the famous terrace-walk down to Soller. Of course we also take this walk down to the idyllic gorge and the gardens of Soller. We then take the old tramway along the coast to Puerto Soller.

Day 6: Postal route Deia - Soller

A shuttle bus brings us to the artist colony Deia, the jewel on the west coast. In the bay of Deia, today’s walking tour leads along the coast up to the idyllic postal route to Soller. A visit of an old olive-oil press, fresh orange juice and a walk through olive groves round off the day.

Day 7: Palma de Mallorca

We take the famous train from Soller to Palma. Enjoy this journey up to the hillsides of the Tramuntana and through the fertile plains of Palma. After days of mountain solitude the liveliness on the Playa de Palma is a remarkable change of scenery.

Day 8: Depart today or extend your stay in Palma.

    

Tour Rating - moderate

Trails of medium difficulty on good paths. Daily distance up to 6 hours, you walk up to 17 km. per day.

 

 

 

 

Independent Tour - Schedule and Price

      

DATES

Start any Sunday between February 24th and June 22nd; and between Sept. 7th and October 19th

Price per person CAD $1150
Single room   $260
Extra nights in Palma p.p.   $100
This tour includes:
  • Welcome and tour explanation
  • 5 nights in 3 and 4* hotels
  • 2 nights at the monastery Lluc
  • Breakfast buffet or extended breakfast
  • Half board, minimum 3-course dinner in the evening
  • Luggage transfer
  • Transfers to the walking tours
  • Train fare Soller – Palma
  • Well signposted routes
  • Route book and detailed travel description
  • Walking rucksack per room

Extras:

Tramway fare Soller to Pt. Soller approx € 1,-
bus fare Pt. Soller – Deia approx. € 1,50

  

 

Escorted Tour - Schedule and Price

      

DATES

30th March,   20th April,  4th May; and 21th September

Price per person CAD $1430
Single room   $260
Extra nights in Palma p.p.   $100
This tour includes:
  • Welcome and tour explanation
  • 5 nights in 3 and 4* hotels
  • 2 nights at the monastery Lluc
  • Breakfast buffet or extended breakfast
  • Half board, minimum 3-course dinner in the evening
  • Luggage transfer
  • Transfers to the walking tours
  • Train fare Soller – Palma
  • Tramway fare Soller – Pt. Soller
  • bus fare Pt. Soller – Deia
  • Well signposted routes
  • Route book and detailed travel description
  • Walking rucksack per room
  • Walking guide

     

Top of page

 

 

 

HIKE & RELAX IN THE CANARY ISLANDS

8 day escorted tour

The island of La Gomera is part of the Canary Islands, lying off the coast of Africa. It impresses by the high variety of geologic formations and climatic contrasts in a very confined area. In the south of the island are small bays with sandy beaches, while tropical terraces, idyllic gorges, palm trees and native villages in the mountains impress the visitor. In the north of La Gomera you'll find the greenest and most fertile part of the island.

  

Day to Day Itineray

Day 1:   Arrival

We arrive in Valle Gran Rey after our transfer from Tennerife, and move in.

Day 2:   To the waterfall

Our journey starts with an interesting tour to a nearby waterfall. The path leads through dense bamboo forest in a fertile side valley of Valle Gran Rey. Refresh yourself at the waterfall before returning. Walking time: 3 hrs

Day 3:   Highest summit

Today we walk to Pico de Garajonay, at 1487 m the highest elevation of the island. When the view is good you can enjoy a panoramic view of large parts of Gomera and the neighbour islands. Descend at first to Imada and then via fascinating Barranco de Guarimiar to El Rumbazo. Here a bus meets us and there is even time to stop at the fishing village of Playa Santiago. Walking time: 5 hrs

Day 4:   Rest day

A day at your own disposal. Valle Gran Rey with sunny climate and a number of beaches is ideally suited for relaxing. Other activities (biking, diving etc.) available locally.

Day 5:   National Park Garajonay- Heritage of Mankind

The real highlight of each hiking trip to La Gomera is the hike of Parque Nacional de Garajonay, which was acknowledged Heritage of Mankind by UNESCO. Laurel trees, metre high tree heather, tree ferns and many endemic plants live here. Via hamlet El Cedro with a visit of the local pub in the mountains, we walk on a spectacular trail to Hermigua. Walking time: 5 hrs

Day 6:   The table mountain of Chipude

Walk to the mountain villages of Gomera. On a royal path, the so called Camino Real, we reach the first destination of the day, famous pottery village El Cercado. During the ascent scenic views of the Valle Gran Rey with terraces and the many palm trees open up. After a break in El Cercado we walk on to the neighbouring village of Chipude, to the foot of table mountain Fortalzea, which was an ancient cultural site for the native inhabitants. You are free to climb the plateau (1243 m) of this old volcano and enjoy an incredible view. Walking time: 5 hrs

Day 7:   A day at your own disposal

Additional walking tours and other activities can be booked locally.

Day 8:   Departure

Depart this morning or extend your stay in the Canary's.

     

Tour Rating - moderate

This tour requires a reasonable level of fitness as you hike through the Pyrenee's for up to 6 hours per day. The paths and trails are in very good condition and well marked.

Zoom

 


Schedule and Price

      

ESCORTED TOUR DATES 2007

Every Tuesday & Saturday from March through October

Price per person CAD $1450
Single room surcharge   $320
This tour includes:
  • Ferry crossing from Teneriffa to La Gomera and return
  • All transfers in the official program
  • 7 overnights in 3 star hotels, double rooms with shower/toilet and balcony or terrace
  • 7 x breakfast
  • 5 x dinner
  • 4 walking tours
  • Local multilingual tour guide
  • Hiking rucksack per room

     

Top of page

  

 

 

HECHO VALLEY IN CATALONIA

7 day escorted tour

You travel to the enchanting village of Hecho, nestling in the Pyrenees mountains of Catalonia. North of Jaca, the secret capital of the Pyrenees, the many secluded valleys are avoided by mass tourism or industry. From a historic point of view this area was the cradle of Spanish Nationality. You walk on old smuggler paths, parts of St. Jacobs pilgrim path and old Roman roads.

   

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1:   Individual arrival in Hecho

Day 2:   Winding waters, approx. 500 m, 4 1/2 hours

We visit one of the most beautiful high-lying valleys of the Pyrenees. Erosion by sun, wind and water cut unusual formations into the soft rock. We walk along the wide bends of a river to a mound that offers unsurpassed views to the French and Spanish High-Pyrenees.

Day 3:   High Mountain Regions, approx. 650 m, 5 1/2 hours

We set out from a high mountain cabin to pass Lo Foratón. Majestic Goose Vultures glide through the air while we walk. At the summit of the pass we enjoy a marvellous scenic view of two unspoilt high valleys, framed by a number of prominent peaks

Day 4:   On the traces of Holy Grail

In the morning we visit Jaca, secret capital of the Pyrenees and ancient royal residence, known as a pearl of medieval architecture. After a city walk you are free to visit the interesting citadel, stroll through the old town or sip a cup of café con leche on one of the plazas. Around noon we follow a piece of historic St. Jacobs’s pilgrim trail through Jaca. In the afternoon we take a ride to San Juan de la Peña, an impressive monastery from the 11th century partly cut into the rocks. Many religious scientists are certain that the Holy Grail was secretly hoarded here for years!

Day 5:   Lost Valley, approx. 600 m, 5 hours

Today we take a trip to lost valley. We set off from a mountain cabin on old trails and smuggler paths through the mountains. Surrounded by intimidating summits we enjoy ever-changing scenery. Bizarre rock formations keep our minds and eyes busy. Opportunity for a technically easy summit tour (2.108 m) (+ 130m, + 1 hour).

Day 6:   St. Jacobs Pilgrim path and smuggler paths, approx. 700 m, 5 hours

On one of the historic St. Jacobs pilgrim paths, which was also used by smugglers, we walk to the French border. On the pass, where the border to France is marked, we enjoy a far view over summits and valleys of both states.

Day 7:   Individual departure

Individual departure or extend your stay in Spain.

Tour Rating - moderate

This tour requires a reasonable level of fitness as you hike through the Pyrenee's for up to 6 hours per day. The paths and trails are in very good condition and well marked.

Zoom

 

Schedule and Price

      

ESCORTED TOUR DATES

25th May,  29th June,  and 14th September

 

Price per person CAD $1250
Single room   $170
This tour includes:
  • 6 nights in a guesthouse which was totally renovated in 2001, in a double room with private facilities
  • 5 guided hiking tours with bilingual walking guide
  • Entrance San Juan de la Peña
  • Emergency support.
  • Breakfast and dinner each day
  • One hiking backpack supplied per room

Local bus transfers to each days starting point paid locally.

      

Top of page

  

  

THE WAY OF ST. JAMES

    

10 day independent tour

(7 and 14 night itineraries also available)

The very first pilgrims way to Santiago de Compostela, better known as “El Camino del Norte” dates back from the Early Middle Ages when devotees coming from northern Europe traversed the northern green provinces of the Iberian Peninsula on their way to the holy shrine. At this time the route now followed to the south, was in the hands of the Moors.

We offer a walking tour that follows part of the coastal St. James way, which runs through the Principality of Asturias, providing a combination of cultural heritage, folklore and nature. The tour traces the spectacular coastline of surf beaches, picturesque fishing villages and scenic hilly landscapes, dotted with Pre-Romanesque churches set in small historic villages.

At the end of the walk a regular coach transfer is available to take you to Santiago de Compostela to stay in a comfortable hotel with courtyard and garden, in the old city for a further two nights.

   

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival at Asturias airport and taxi transfer to the first accommodation in the coastal village of Prado Depending on the time of arrival, a scenic walk can be made by climbing the adjacent hill “Pico de la Forquita” (340m) from where you have beautiful panoramic views of the Sierra del Sueve and the Cantabrian Sea.

Day 2 Prado to Pernus Descending towards the coast, you will soon come across the waymark with the blue/yellow St. James shell, the sign that you are on “El Camino del Norte”. The famous pilgrims' way runs through green meadows bordering the scenic coastline. Now and then we cross little white, sandy beaches sheltered by rocks which allow you to literally step in some huge footprints left by dinosaurs, who once inhabited this region. ~ 5h

Day 3 Pernus to Villaviciosa We leave the coast behind and head for the green hills. Our path contours rural villages and hamlets of typical Asturian houses with wooden balconies and “hórreos”, before reaching the famous ancient church of Priesca (AD921), a jewel of the Pre-Romanesque architecture. Crossing the delta and tidal river “Ria Villaviciosa”, a nature reserve and breeding place for migratory birds from the north, we follow a small stream and cross the valley before reaching the lovely country town of Villaviciosa, your accommodation for the next two nights. ~ 6h

Day 4 Circular Walk/Sightseeing A pleasant walk via the hilltop Monte Cubera from where beautiful views over both the Cantabrian Sea and the surrounding Sierras to the little town of Villaviciosa can be had. Coats of arms or “escudos” on the medieval houses in the old part remind us that it was here where Emperor Charles V first set foot on Spanish soil. Alternatively, by public transport or a taxi, charming neighbouring fishing villages like Lastres or Tazones can be visited. On one of the many terraces in the harbour you can eat fresh crab or other delicious fish dishes and tapas. Or you can walk to one of the nearby beaches. ~ 8 miles / 4 hours

Day 5 Villaviciosa to Valdedios Following the valley through numerous villages you arrive at the monastry of Santa María de Valdediós. The monastery dates back to the 13th century and the adjacent picturesque Pre-Romanesque church “San Salvador” has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The Cistercian monks offer their guests a unique and comfortable stay in the monastery. ~ 5h

Day 6 Valdedios to San Justo Today we cross the heart of the cider region with its traditions and folklore. There are apple orchards everywhere and in autumn the juicy sweet smelling fruits will be squeezed and made into sparkling cider. Many farms have their own “llagar” cider bodega with presses and wooden barrels for storage. ~ 5h

Day 7 San Justo to Oviedo After a short transfer back to the seaside we follow a pleasant trail that runs along the coastline with its sheer cliffs and secluded small white sandy beaches which can only be reached on foot. At Peñarrubia, the coastal path winds around the rocks to finally join the promenade around the bay of San Lorenzo, the city of Gijón's main beach. From Gijon you travel by local train to the city of Oviedo (price not included), the capital and cultural centre of the Principality. The Asturian King Alfonso II The Great initiated from Oviedo the very first pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela (813 AD). Apart from the main monuments and elegant medieval houses, you'll find numerous colourful plazas dotted with little restaurants, taverns and bars which invite you to enjoy some delicious tapas and other gastronomic dishes from the region. ~ 4h

Day 8 Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela.

This morning you transfer by coach to Santiago de Compostela (own expense). The balance of the day is free.

Day 9 Sightseeing in Santiago de Compostela.

Day 10 Departure.

   

Tour Rating - easy to moderate

There are some low hills and the walks average 9 miles per day.

 

Route for The Way of Saint James

 

 

The Way of Saint James

 

 

 

 

Schedule and Price

      

DATES

Start any date 1 February to 1 December

Price per person CAD $1675
Single room   On request
This tour includes:
  • 9 nights in small guesthouses and country hotels, Casa de Aldea, and a monastery, in a double room with private facilities
  • Maps and route details in English
  • Luggage transfers
  • Taxi transfer Oviedo airport to first hotel
  • Emergency support.
  • 4 evening meals (not on days 3,4,7,8 and 9)
  • Bed and breakfast in small hotels (3 nights),

     

Top of page

 

  

HIKE & RELAX IN NERJA, ANDALUSIA

8 day independent hotel stay

This single centre walking holiday is based in a small family-run hotel located in a converted village house in the old centre of Nerja. The owners are Dutch and speak good English. They provide a friendly, homely atmosphere and the hotel has an outdoor swimming pool.
Nerja is located on the south Andalucian coast about 30 miles from Malaga. With its narrow streets of white houses leading to the bay and sandy beaches, the town has retained much of its original character. The mountains come right down to the sea here and it is possible to walk from the town out into the surrounding countryside with its three nature parks or along the coast. Other walks are accessed by public transport or a short taxi ride.
The mild climate is particularly good for walking from March until June and September until November. Some rain can be expected between December and February although it is still mild. The summer months are very hot for walking. All the walks are graded easy or moderate.

NB. If you do not wish to walk on any day there are many other activities available locally including sailing, scuba diving, mountain biking and jeep safaris.

   

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive at Nerja

Day 2 Maro and Nerja caves

A gentle walk along the coast to the lovely village of Maro and the well-known Nerja caves. You can extend this walk to a secluded beach for a refreshing swim. ~ 2 hours or 6 hours

Day 3 Frigiliana

Following a dry riverbed to a beautiful gorge and the village of Frigiliana, this walk then leads back via a ridge with lovely views of the coast. ~ 5 hours or 8 hours

Day 4 Torrox

This walk takes you to the typically Spanish village of Torrox with its steep cobbled streets and whitewashed houses before leading you back along the beach to Nerja. ~ 4 hours or 8 hours

Day 5 Achebucal

Walking on mountain trails to the restored village of Achebucal at the foot of the high Sierras, the route then follows an old donkey track to Torrox. ~ 6 hours

Day 6 Mount Cielo

The route today is to the top of Mount Cielo (mount heaven) from where your hard work is rewarded by stunning views over the beautiful Mediterranean below. ~ 8 hours

Day 7 Rio Chillar Today's walk follows the riverbed just out of the town as it leads through small gorges and pools and over waterfalls with many opportunities for a refreshing dip before following the mountain trail back to Nerja. ~ 5 hours or 7 hours

Day 8 Departure.

Or perhaps extend your stay in Andalusia.

Route for Nerja

 

Tour Rating - easy to moderate

There are some low hills and the walks average 9 miles per day.

Nerja

Schedule and Price

      

DATES

Start any date throughout the year

Price per person CAD $1095
Single room   On request
This tour includes:
  • 7 nights in a small guesthouse, in a double room with private facilities
  • Maps and route details in English
  • Emergency support.
  • 7 x breakfast

NB. We can organise guided walks in the nearby mountains. The cost of $50 per person (minimum 2 people) includes transport.

     

Top of page

Booking Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy