A note on our self-guided adventures and Fitness preparation:
Self-guided walking or cycling requires individuals to use problem-solving skills, be adaptable and have a keen eye. It is recommended that you are comfortable map reading, referring to route notes, and having a good sense of direction (or are willing to work on improving this!) Sometimes route finding, losing your way, finding it again and asking the locals for help is part of the adventure. If you’ve never been on a self-guided trip, you will get the hang of it after the first couple of days as the vast majority of our first-time travellers attest. Please be assured that our written material issued to you for route finding is updated regularly, and we provide a 7 day service hotline in case of any problems. A certain level of the unknown comes with self-guided trips; however, with a systematic approach, potential problems will be averted. The freedom of a self-guided journey is something that, once experienced, is sought repeatedly.
Fitness preparation: The concept behind most of our trips is active holidays; the fitter you are, the more quickly you will adjust and enjoy yourself. We expect participants to take responsibility for their fitness and preparations consistently before departure and INCREASE the regular weekly training schedule in the two months following release. That way, when you start walking, you will feel relaxed, comfortable, and strong, having done more than sufficient preparation for the trip. You will also have more energy to enjoy the views, take photos and explore the sights in your spare time rather than make it to the next hotel. While the day is when the most exciting features of interest will be found, and being fit allows you to optimise every situation you encounter. As a minimum, we recommend 40 minutes of aerobic type exercise; running, swimming, biking, hill walking, or gym work two to three times a week for two to six months leading up to your walk. Note that the best training is the activity you will be doing; walking up and downhill and cross-country. Practice this as much as possible. Training should be stepped up as you get closer to departure to an appropriate amount (you don’t want to cause yourself an injury!). Using your gear before departure (boots, day pack, clothing, etc.) gives familiarity and comfort whilst on the walk. It makes sense to know that all your gear ‘works for you’ BEFORE departure, rather than discovering how things work or fit (or don’t!) on the trip you have invested so much in. Use the philosophy of ‘getting fit to go walking’ rather than ‘going on a walk to get fit’ to avoid problems.
Optional Services:
These services can be added to the ones included in the base price of the tour:
Single room supplement
Transfers to reach the starting location or to leave the arriving site of the tour will be quoted on request.
