skip to main |
skip to sidebar
Walks of Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast with Page & Moy - 8 days from £769
Telephone Page & Moy on 0845 358 2639 now to reserve your space
Indulge yourself with a holiday like no other on one of the most beautiful stretches of the Italian coastline. The views you will experience as you explore Sorrento, Ravello and Crapolla are second to none. See mountains and quaint rural villages as you walk along the Pathway of the Gods, sample local delicacies and then travel back to the days of the Roman Empire with a visit to Pompeii and Vesuvius.
Highlights * Spectacular scenic walks
* Charming family-run hotel * Off the beaten track
* Walk and explore or relax
Included excursions
* Sorrento walk
* Crapolla walk
* Bomberano & Positano walk including Mozzarella cheese tasting
Optional excursions * The Amalfi Coast
* The Island of Ischia & La Mortella Gardens
* Pompeii & Vesuvius
Meal arrangements
* 7 nights half board including a farewell dinner in a local restaurant and lunch on 2 of the walks
Also included
* The services of an experienced Page & Moy Tour Manager and local walking guide
Your Accommodation Hotel Piccolo Paradiso (3-star), 7 nights half board.
Situated between lemon groves and the sea, the hotel is just a short walk from the delightful fishing village of Marina di Lobra. Hotel amenities include a bar, restaurant and swimming pool. All rooms have a TV, air-conditioning, hairdrier and en-suite facilities.
Your Itinerary
DAY 1 UK/Marina di Lobra
We fly to Naples and transfer to our hotel. There will be some free time this afternoon to explore the little port of Marina di Lobra, which is just a short walk away, before dinner at the hotel.
DAY 2 Sorrento
Sorrento has long been a favourite haunt of writers and artists from around the globe, with flower-filled piazzas, elegant shops and pretty pavement cafes. Our walk today begins from the village of Sant’Agata in the hills above Sorrento, passing the Deserto Convent from where, on a clear day, you can see both the Bay of Naples and the Bay of Salerno. We take the ‘Circumpiso’ trail, the old road used by the locals to walk from Sant’Agata to Sorrento. After some free time for a little shopping and lunch, we then enjoy a walking tour of this magnificent town visiting the 13th-century Cloister of St Francesco and exploring the little streets. We discover the seating of the old Dominova where decisions were once made about the community in the old days of the Bourbons. We then head to the magnificent cathedral with its inlaid woodwork, internal doors and altar made by the locals. Easy walking – 2 hours. Distance – 2½ miles.
DAY 3 Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the world. Today on our optional excursion we follow the coastal road, overlooking intensely blue waters and tiny villages clinging precariously to the cliffs. En route we stop on the terrace above Positano, a town with pastel coloured houses which seem to be stacked on top of each other. We continue past beautiful villas, gardens and strange rock formations before reaching Amalfi, which is set in a chasm in the cliffs. From here we visit the magnificent cathedral with its mosaic facade before heading to Ravello. Set some 350 metres above the sea, it is from here that many of the well-known images of the Amalfi Coast are taken. We take a short walk, with views of lemon groves and the Ravello gorge along the way, to the Villa Cimbrone, known for its glorious gardens. Nearby are the lush gardens of the Villa Rufolo, which inspired Wagner to base part of his opera, Parsifal, on it. Both gardens offer an unparalleled vista along the coast.
DAY 4 CrapollaLegend has it that Saint Peter, on his way to spread the Gospel, landed in Crapolla and climbed the cliff up to St Agata before continuing his walk through the Italian Peninsula. Today we are going to follow in his footsteps, albeit in reverse, going down to the small fjord of Crapolla. The steep, rugged walk down passes by olive and lemon groves and descends deep between two hills. Admire the three islands of I Galli, once the property of the world famous ballet dancer Rudolf Nureyev; and also, if the weather is clear, the views of the Bay of Salerno up to Santa Maria di Castellabate. As we approach the fjord and small beach, we stop at the stunning San Peter’s Chapel. Down on the beach we may come across the fishermen who make their living in Crapolla, before enjoying the fruits of their labour when we take a short boat ride to Marina del Cantone for lunch in a fish restaurant. Moderate/difficult walking – 3 hours. Distance – 2 miles.
DAY 5 Ischia
The enchanting island of Ischia rises serenely from the sparkling waters of the Bay of Naples. After a jetfoil ride across to the island on our optional excursion, we enjoy a bus tour including a visit to the La Mortella gardens, created by the English composer Sir William Walton and his wife Susanna. They are widely regarded as amongst the most beautiful gardens in the world. Later on we pass by Forio and Barano, where we stop for a wine tasting before heading back to Ischia Porto for some free time.
DAY 6 Bomerano
Our final walk along the Pathway of the Gods is arguably the most fascinating. On arriving in Bomerano, we enjoy a tasting of some of the local Mozzarella cheese at a farm. Our walk then starts through the small streets of the village and reveals views down rocky cliffs to the villages of Praiano and Positano. Looking upwards, you can admire the beautiful Monte Faito and the Lattari mountain chain. All along this rugged path you are greeted with marvellous vistas, freshwater springs, and villages that are inaccessible by car. After lunch we return to Positano for time to explore the village further or take a walk on the beach. Moderate walking – 4½ hours. Distance – 4 miles.DAY 7 Pompeii & Vesuvius
Take a glimpse into Roman life in 1st-century Italy on our optional excursion to Pompeii, the city so cruelly enveloped by ash when Vesuvius erupted in AD 79. Explore the chariot-worn streets, see the huge amphitheatre and admire the beautifully frescoed villas, well preserved for hundreds of years by the ash and pumice. Tonight we enjoy dinner in a typical local restaurant.
DAY 8 Marina di Lobra/UK
We transfer to the airport for our homeward flight
Telephone Page & Moy on 0845 358 2639 now to reserve your space
Dates, Prices & Departure
holiday ref:EEITWA
20/05/2009 £769
27/05/2009 £769
03/06/2009 £769
16/09/2009 £779
Deposit £100 per person Prices are based on the shared occupancy of twin or double rooms with private facilities.
Supplements
* Single room supplement £115
* Balcony/sea view room £70
* Holiday Insurance Please see general information for details of items not included in the holiday price and our price policy.Travel Information
Scheduled flights by British Airways between London Gatwick and Naples; departing at 1055h and arriving back at 1710h. All timings are approximate and may be subject to variation.
Also Fly From...
You can also fly to your destination from the following airports at the supplement shown below (per person)Stansted £NIL
Regional Connecting Flights
Connecting flights to London from only £69 If it’s not possible to fly direct to your destination, usually you will have the option of taking a connecting flight to Heathrow or Gatwick from as little as £69 per person return. Fly from Aberdeen, Belfast, Durham Tees Valley, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Jersey, Leeds/Bradford, Manchester, Newcastle, or Newquay
Transfers
Transfer time from the airport to your hotel is approximately 90 mins.
Make Your Own Way - Save up to £150 per person
You may want more flexibility to combine your trip with visits to friends and relatives or travel from an airport that we do not offer. If so, we offer a reduction of £150 on many of our holidays when you make your own way to your holiday hotel. Please remember that these arrangements do not include flights or transfers to and from your hotel and you will need to make your own travel arrangements.
Telephone Page & Moy on 0845 358 2639 now to reserve your space
Walking Off The Beaten Track!
Visit the Sherpa Expeditions Website for more details
The ‘Cilento E Vallo Di Diano’ is a National Park boasting some of the few remaining wolves in Europe and 1800 species of plants, including a few that are endemic to the area. The real joy of the trip is the tranquility that you will find, roaming between the little medieval villages, the forests and limestone hills, linked in the valleys by ancient stone bridges over limestone canyons. There are remains of mills and tiny chapels. An ideal Italian walking tour for the slightly more adventurous walker.
Cilento is an undiscovered Italian wilderness where you can really enjoy the sensation of having the whole place to yourself. From the tiny village of Felitto, we descend into a gorge full of ancient caves and ruined watermills.
The next day we take a bus to Laurino and follow the canyon below the village to arrive at a small medieval bridge which leads to the little church of Sant’Elena. An optional visit brings us to the cave of St. Michael and from here it is an easy trail down to the village of Valle dell’Angelo, the ‘Valley of the Angel’, where we stay in the town centre. A short walk to the tranquil little village of Piaggine leads into a valley, adorned with maquis, olive groves and orchards to reach the small town of Sacco and its cathedral before continuing up to Roscigno Vecchio.
From Roscigno we climb up Monte Pruno, a beautiful viewpoint, then on to Sant’Angelo a Fasanella, one of the most interesting little towns in the area. The route then reaches one of the most picturesque sites in the National Park, the Risorgenza dell’Auso, where the river Auso resurfaces after running underground. A short transfer brings us to the high plain of the Alburni mountains, a wild calcareous mountain chain with many caves, huge beech forests and rocky outcrops. This is an area where wolves still wander and with a large variety of bird life. We walk along easy muletracks to the viewpoint of ‘Il Figliolo’ overlooking the plain of Salerno, the sea and the mountain plains.
This is a moderate tour and most of the walks are on good paths, but sometimes overgrown sections cannot be avoided!
The trip can be extended to visit Paestum, Pompeii, Salerno, Naples or the coast, details are included in the detailed dossier. This trip can also be linked with the Amalfi Coast to create a longer holiday.Visit the Sherpa Expeditions Website for more detailsInn to Inn 9 days
Duration: 8 nights / 9 days
Tour Code: JCN
Grade: Moderate
Day Stages: Minimum 9km, max 15km.Start any day April - November HomeSELF-GUIDED Dates 2009
Your Accommodation
8 nights/9 days - Nights 1 & 2 we spend just outside the medieval village of Felitto where we stay in a good agriturismo.
Nights 3 & 4 in Valle dell’Angelo are spent in a new comfortable village hotel, overlooking the pretty town square.
Nights 5 & 6 are spent just outside of the small town of Sant’ Angelo on the south side of the Alburni mountains, in a recently restored farmhouse, which also boasts a swimming pool.
Our last two nights are in a comfortable agriturismo, just outside the town of Scorzo - Sicignano, underneath the towering Alburni mountains.
Sherpa Notes
Accommodation & MealsDinner, bed and breakfast on 6 nights, bed & breakfast on 2 nights using agriturismo (farmhouse with guestrooms) on most nights except in Valle dell’Angelo where we use a restored village hotel. All accommodation is ensuite.
Way Marks
Only a very small part of the route is waymarked; elsewhere it is necessary to follow the route descriptions provided together with the maps.
Travel
via Air: British Airways (BA) Gatwick to Naples. From Naples central station it is less than 11/2 hour to Capaccio by train. You will be met on arrival at the station and transferred to your accommodation in Felitto. At the end of the tour take a bus from Scorzo to Naples which takes approx 2 to 21/2 hoursConsider extra nights in Naples and take the short train journey through to Pompei Visit the Sherpa Expeditions Website for more details
Italy - Lake Como Holiday with Hooked on Walking.
This tour leads you through one of the most panoramic areas of the Lake Como region.
Tours start and finish near Como, a beautiful city with a rich history. The walled centre, with its narrow alleys, fine squares and impressive dome, reaches right to the shore of the lake. The tour leads over the summits of the Triangolo Lariano, the triangular piece of land surrounded on two sides by the lake and on the third by the plains of the river Po. This situation guarantees splendid views all around; the snow-topped Alps in the north, the steep Grigna in the east and at sunset the Mon Viso in the west on the French border! Closer by, just beneath, is the lake with its characteristic villages, showing, in sight and sound, the fine examples of Romanic church towers.
The walk goes through ancient chestnut forests, over gentle summits and mountain meadows. ‘Rifugi’, small local inns and resting places, will offer you a sumptuous selection of local specialities, tempting you to a tasty break with an inevitable glass of wine. If you wish you can choose to walk over the highest summit of the area, the San Primo. From here the entire lake with its quaint shore side towns can be seen, including Bellagio, the so-called ‘Pearl of the Lake’’, from where you will take a scenic boat ride back to Como at the end of your tour. From the boat you will have a constant view on the mountain ridge you walked over on the previous days and you will get a close-up glimpse of the lakeside towns.Day 1 Arrival in Como.Immediately after the Swiss-Italian border lays Como. Your first accommodation is in Brunate, a small village in Art-Deco style up the mountain above Como. A small road winds up from the city, but the place can also be reached by a little cable-train running up from Como.
Day 2 From Brunate to Alpe del Viceré.
Thanks to the fact that the first lodging is high up, walking upwards is reduced and the view is splendid; on a clear day this first hike offers views on the snow-topped Alps in the north, the flatlands of the river Po in the south and the lake beneath. Walking through beech forests and mountain meadows the track leads to Alpe del Viceré, the meadows where the vice king, (sun of Napoleon) once kept his horses during summer. Walking time from 2.5 to 4 hours. Differences in altitude: up 320m. down 300m.
Day 3 From Alpe Viceré to Pian di Nesso.
Almost every day a choice can be made between day trips of different length or difficulty; today the choice is to go over or around the Monte Palanzone after which it goes downhill to the quiet Piano di Nesso. A varied hike through fields and forests with , of course beautiful views all around. Walking time from 3 to 4 hours. Differences in altitude: up 530m. down 450m.
Day 4 Piano di Nesso.
This little valley is like a kept secret; water is bubbling up from wells, cowbells clink and Giovanni, your host, is making his cheese. A nice spot for a day of rest but if you cannot sit still you can make a roundtrip down to the lakeside or in the mountains around.
Day 5 From Piano di Nesso to Piano Rancio.
Also on this day is a choice which can be made between going over or around the mountain. The mountain San Primo is the highest of the area (1700) so if the whether collaborates , good views are guaranteed. Especially during spring it’s a tour through the seasons, while in summer at the lakeside but near the summit of the San Primo flowers like Helleboris and Crocus are still celebrating the end of wintertime. Walking time from 3 to 5 hours. Differences in altitude: max. up 550m. down 700m.
Day 6 From Piano Rancio to Bellagio / Como / Brunate.
This day the trip goes downhill to the ‘civilised world’. Hiking along meadows, the edge of woods, hamlets and villages, it goes to the village of Bellagio, beautifully situated on the tip of the Triangolo Lariano and therefore called the ‘Pearl of the Lake’. From here a two hours scenic cruise southward brings you back to Como. Walking time 3 +1 hour. Differences in altitude: down 750m.
Day 7 Brunate
Once back in the first lodging you can spend the day in the city; Como has a charming walled centre and is famous for its silk production. Otherwise a last trip by foot can be made, downhill to the lakeside; in the woods enormous stones can be found, caved into mysterious tombs, unknown when made and unknown for whom, Fascinating!
Day 8 DepartureDeparture after breakfast on the terrace with a last glimpse on the lake.
For more information visit www.inspiringholidays.com
Walking on the Island of Elba with Travelsphere - 8 days from £599The beautiful island of Elba has lofty mountains, a rugged coastline and pretty villages. Take in the fantastic scenery all around as you walk along coastal paths and over mountains, through woodlands, vineyards and orchards.
Telephone Travelsphere on 0845 358 2368 now to reserve your space
What's Included * Return scheduled flights to Pisa
* Transfers between airport and hotel
* Seven nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation
* Services of a Get Up & Go Tour Manager
* Three walks with a local guide as detailed * All UK and overseas airport taxes and security charges
Accommodation
You will stay in the Hotel Gabbiano Azzurro I, just ten minutes’ walk from the colourful harbour town of Marciana Marina. Hotel amenities include a breakfast room, bar, lounge, secluded garden, swimming pool and sun terraces. All bedrooms have private facilities, telephone, TV, fridge and air-conditioning.Itinerary
DAY 1 – UK/ITALY
Depart on your scheduled flight to pisa. On arrival transfer by coach then ferry from Piombino to the island of Elba, and your hotel in Marciana Marina, for a seven night stay.DAY 2 – MONTE PERONE
Today we walk to the National Park of Monte Perone, populated by a great variety of birds, cross to the south of the island and descend via the medieval town of Saint Ilario. Our path winds past vineyards and ends with a wonderful view of Marciana Marina (approx. 4 hours’ walk).
DAY 3 – MARCIANA MARINA
Today you are free to relax, or perhaps visit portoferraio, the island’s capital, main port and one of the oldest towns. After exploring, you can walk through the Medici Fortress to Napoleon’s Winter palace.DAY 4 – POGGIO
Today’s included walk takes us from medieval Poggio past the Napoleonic Spa and Pisan fortress, up to the intriguing San Cerborne Chapel descending via Marciana Alta (approx. 3½ hours’ walk).
DAY 5 – MARCIANA MARINA
Free to enjoy a boat trip around Elba, or venture further to one of the other Tuscan islands. Why not take a cable car ride up to Monte Capanne for the spectacular views of the Italian coastline?DAY 6 – ZANCA
Our walk today takes us from Zanca to the villages of Sant’Andrea and Maciarello and the pebbly cove of La Cala. You will then climb through orchards and vineyards for breathtaking views of Corsica (approx. 3½ hours’ walk).
DAY 7 – MARCIANA MARINA
Today is at leisure for you to discover more of this beautiful island. Why not shop for souvenirs at the colourful and bustling village market or visit the south of the island, where you will discover Roman granite quarries, sleepy fishing villages and unspoilt sandy beaches.
DAY 8 – ITALY/UK
Transfer to the airport via ferry from Portoferraio then by coach to Pisa for your return flight to the UK.Telephone Travelsphere on 0845 358 2368 now to reserve your space
Dates, Prices & Departureholiday ref: GEIWE
06/05/2009 £599
14/10/2009 £599Deposit £100 per person
All prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin or double-bedded room with private facilities.
Surcharges
The Pound has recently fallen significantly in value against other European currencies and, in common with many other businesses, our prices now include an additional charge for all new bookings which has been introduced to cover these additional costs.
Supplements
* Single room supplement £95
* Insurance
Travel Information
Flights are by scheduled services of British Airways Departing London Gatwick 1155 hrs Return arr. 1315 hrs All timings are approximate and may be subject to variation.Fly From Your Local Airport
You can fly to your destination from the following airports at the supplement shown below (per person).
Luton £NIL
Bristol £29
Transfers Transfer time from the airport to your hotel is approx. 3 hours.
Telephone Travelsphere on 0845 358 2368 now to reserve your space
STOP PRESS
Book any Travelsphere Holiday before 16th February 2009 and you could be one of five lucky winners of a GBP2,000 Travelsphere holiday voucher! Terms & Conditions apply
Italy - Chianti Trek holiday with Hooked on Walking.
Welcome to Hooked on Walking holidays and our walking holiday in the Chianti region of Tuscany.
Needless to say this walking holiday takes you through some great scenery, a major wine region of Chianti and also through some of Tuscany’s very historic towns and cities in particular Florence and Siena.
This walking holiday is available as a four and seven night self led walking tour.
This hiking vacation in Tuscany really is what you imagined Tuscany to be Between the artistic masterpieces of Florence and Siena we find the “Chianti Classico” hills, covered with vineyards producing world famous wines, as well as excellent olive oil. Walking along the Chianti’s footpaths, cypress lined roads and strade bianche that cross forest of oak, beech and chestnut you will feel as if you have just walked in to a renaissance painting, dotted with well preserved towns and villages, imposing Renaissance villas and picturesque stone farmhouses where the locals maintain age-long traditions.Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Florence.
Arrival in Florence. If you arrive in the morning, you can make a city walk. The city walk passes by the most beautiful streets and squares and the most important sights. The walk starts and ends at the Piazza della Signoria, it is 8 kilometres long and takes about 3,5 hours
Day 2 Settignano to Fiesole
A 25 minute city bus ride takes you to Settignanoe where the walk starts. The walk leads you through the characteristic Tuscan countryside to the remarkable town of Fiesole, walking through cypress forests and olive groves that offer magnificent views of the city and the Duomo. In Fiesole, this beautiful Etruscan-come-Roman town there are many things to visit: the Roman Theatre and Baths, a Romanic church, the Franciscan monastery, as well as the remains of the Etruscan civilisation. Return to Florence with the local city bus. 9 km, up 300m, down 100m, 4 hours
Day 3 Hills and vineyards north of Greve in Chianti
After breakfast take the local bus to Greve in Chianti and check into the hotel where you will spend 2 nights. Visit Greve, capital of the Chianti wine producing region, discovering this unique and charming market village. Then walk along a ridge overlooking a quintessential Tuscan view of Renaissance villas, charming farmhouses and cascading vineyards to the fortified ancient village of Montefioralle, the birthplace of Amerigo Vespucci, who gave America its name 8 km, up 250 m, down 250 m, 3 hours
Day 4 Greve Circular walk
Todays walk takes you to Panzano , a small village a few kilometres south of Greve. Walk along a ridge over looking the Val di Greve and Val di Pesa valleys you will have a great Tuscan view of the Renaissance villas , charming farmhouses and cascading vineyards . 9 km up 350 m, down 450 m, 4 hours.
Day 5 San Michele to Radda in Chianti
First a transfer to San Michelle and the highest hills of the Chianti region. Walking to Radda in Chianti you descend through a forested valley full of century old chestnut trees till you reach the vineyards surrounding the hamlet of Volpaia, one of the most beautiful and nicest situated villages of the Chianti. A fine ‘enoteca’ will make you pause here. The last part of today is through the typical Chianti landscape woods and vineyards, passing by the church of Santa Maria Novella, on the other side of the valley you can already see Radda. 13.6 km, up 450 m, down 450 m, 5.5 hours.
Day 6 Circular walk
Today is an easy, relaxing day. A short circular walk in the neighbourhood of Radda in Chianti leaves you plenty of time to explore the town that has remained practically unchanged since the Middle Ages. You can also stop the wine cellars and try some Chianti wine 8.6 km, up 250 m, down 250 m, 4 hours.
Day 7 SienaAfter breakfast, take the local bus to Siena and spend the day discovering this town famous for its “Palio” horse race held twice yearly in one of the most beautiful squares of Europe (judges say). Don’t’ miss and the black and white marbled Duomo and meandering through the narrow streets and alleys. In short this is one of the most perfectly preserved middle age cities in Italy.Day 8
Tour complete after breakfast. The day is at your leisure to explore this beautiful city more with its innumerable masterpieces.
For more information visit www.inspiringholidays.com
The Amalfi Coast - Unrivalled Italian Coastal Walking with Sherpa Expeditions
Visit the Sherpa Expeditions Website for more details
Hercules loved a nymph called Amalfi and sought the most beautiful place in the world to immortalize her. Seeking the same beauty, Sherpa moves further south in Italy to discover the dramatic Amalfi coast where the mountains quite literally tumble to the sea.
A land of ‘everlasting Spring’, golden light, charming villages and monasteries, watch towers, isolated farmsteads, with flower-strewn coastal paths threading them all together. There are also areas of near wilderness along the Monti Lattari just behind the coast, with impressive cliffs rising up to 1400m whilst omnipresent is the blue of the Mediterranean.After arriving in Amalfi, and perhaps a swim to wash away the tiredness from your journey, our first walk takes us to the ‘Valle dei Mulini’, the valley of the watermills, and on up to the little village of Pontone and the medieval Torre dello Zirro. The return stretch back to Amalfi is very scenic with spectacular viewpoints. Including a visit to beautiful Ravello.
Next we walk into the Valle delle Ferriere, one of southern Italy’s most beautiful nature reserves, passing beneath the towering cliffs close to some little waterfalls. From Pogerola a beautiful medieval muletrack curves down to Amalfi, amidst lemon groves and maquis.
The tour continues along a paved muletrack dating back towards the 9th century, to the imposing monastery of Santa Rosa. The route descends to the coast and the spectacular inlet at Furore. From here we walk along to the church of Sant’Elia into the Valley of Praia and then to the coastal town of Praiano. Next we follow the famous ‘Sentiero degli Dei’ (Footpath of the Gods), with views of Capri before descending to precariously perched Positano, one of the most charming villages of the coast.
Finally we take a local bus back up to Montepertuso where we start a circular walk of the Positano valley following ancient footpaths through the forest with marvelous viewpoints. We climb towards Santa Maria al Castello, the old fortress defending the narrow valley between the Amalfi and the Sorrentine side of the peninsula and overlooking both the Gulf of Salerno and the Gulf of Naples. The walk then descends via a forest station to Positano.
On the 11 day tour we stay in Sorrento which has good access to some other walks, and is also a convenient place for an excursion to the beautiful Isle of Capri. This classy, beautiful walk follows steep-stepped routes on some days to get you quickly to the viewpoints.Inn to Inn 8 or 11 days
Duration: 7 nights/8 days or 10 nights/11 days
Tour Code: JAM Grade: Easy to Moderate
Day Stages: Minimum 7.5km, max 30km.
Start any day January - December
Click here for latest SELF-GUIDED prices
ESCORTED Dates 2009 (8 day itinerary)
Group Size: Min 4, max 15, plus trek leader
EJAM31 Sun 31 May - Sun 7 June
EJAM27 Sun 27 Sep - Sun 4 Oct
Click here for latest ESCORTED pricesAccommodation
7 nights/8 days - The first 3 nights of our tour is spent in the ancient capital Amalfi. Our 3* hotel is centrally located so you are within walking distance of the main monuments. It is furnished with antiques and offers all modern facilities.
Nights 4 & 5 are spent in a beautiful small town called Praiano. The 3* hotel is situated steeply over the sea and has an excellent restaurant that offers panoramic views over a large stretch of the Amalfi Coast.
Nights 6 & 7 of the tour is spent in the lively village of Positano, with its characteristic houses clinging to the edge of the mountain. Here, our 4* Best Western hotel is always a popular choice with clients.
10 nights/11 days - As above with 3 nights in a 3* hotel in Sorrento.
Sherpa Notes
Arrival
From Naples central railway station you take the train through to Salerno (approx 30-60 mins) then the ferry up to the Amalfi Coast (approx 30mins). The hotel is located approx 5 minutes from the ferry point. Accommodation & Meals On bed and breakfast basis on both the 8 and 11 day tour.
We use 3* & 4* hotels in/near to village centres. All rooms have ensuite facilities. You will be free to organise your dinner from the wide choice of restaurants in town.
Way Marks
Only a very small part of the route is waymarked; elsewhere it is necessary to follow the route notes provided with the maps.
End of Tour
Tour ends on day 8 in Positano. The return to Naples is by bus to Sorrento (approx 50 mins) and then a 1hr train journey to Naples.
Why not treat yourself and upgrade to an executive room in Positano. It has a jacuzzi and wonderful sea views. The hotel only has 6 of these rooms available, between £40 and £80pp depending on time of year.
Consider extra nights in Sorrento/Naples and take the short train journey through to Pompei.
Visit the Sherpa Expeditions Website for more details
Walking in the Cinque Terre with Travelsphere - 7 days from £739.
Discover the captivating resorts and stunning scenery of northern Italy’s wild and beautiful Ligurian coast. Our superb walks take you through lemon groves, wooded hillsides and vineyards as you explore the picturesque Cinque Terre, Portofino, Portovenere and the island of Palmaria.
Telephone Travelsphere on 0845 358 2368 now to reserve your space
What's Included
* Scheduled flights to Genoa
* Transfers between airport and hotel
* Services of an air-conditioned executive coach * Six nights’ half board accommodation * Services of a Travelsphere Tour Manager and local guides
* Three walks as detailed
* Boat trip to Portofino
* Train ride and boat trip to Palmaria
* All UK and overseas airport taxes and security charges
Highlights Include
* Three walks
* Cinque Terre National Park
* Rapallo & Portofino
* Portovenere & Palmaria
Optional Excursions
* The Sanctuary of Montallegro
* GenoaWalking Information
Our walks require a reasonable level of fitness and ideally some previous walking experience. You will need comfortable walking boots, a small rucksack, waterproofs, a hat and sunglasses. A local guide will also accompany you on your walks.Grade 2 Walks
These are moderate, for anyone who is comfortable walking hills. Still plenty of time to rest and enjoy the scenery, however up to 5 hours walking a day on slightly more rugged terrain. Ascent less than 500m per day.
Grade 3 WalksThese are quite strenuous, for the more accomplished hill walker. A larger number of continuous stretches of trekking totalling about 5 hours a day, often in mountainous terrain where paths can be steep. Ascent up to 1000m per day.
Telephone Travelsphere on 0845 358 2368 now to reserve your space
Accommodation
You will stay in the welcoming Hotel Ferrari just a short walk from the sea and the centre of Chiavari. Amenities include a bar and restaurant. All bedrooms feature private facilities, air-conditioning, TV and telephone.Itinerary
YOUR RESORT
The pretty resort of Chiavari near the mouth of the Entella River on the Italian Riviera is surrounded by dramatic mountains as they sweep down to the sparkling, deep blue sea. This delightful seaside town is a fabulous base from which to set out on our guided walks to discover the scenic charms, stunning coastlines and lovely villages of the Cinque Terre. Then you can stroll into the centre to browse through the shops and relax and watch the world go by from one of the welcoming bars and restaurants.
INCLUDED ACTIVITIES & WALKS:Cinque Terre National Park
The Cinque Terre refers to five picturesque villages which perch on the cliffs high above the Mediterranean – Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglio, Manarola and Riomaggiore. We travel by train from Chiavari via Manarola to Riomaggiore, from where we follow the cliff path through the villages (approx. 6 hours’ walk). The scenery is truly inspiring and there are spectacular views all around. You can return by train from any of the five villages if you wish.Rapallo & Portofino
Travel by train to Rapallo, then by bus to Ruta di Camogli, from where we begin an exhilarating walk through wooded hills (approx. 4 hours’ walk). We then enjoy a boat trip to the famous and quite beautiful town of Portofino. The view of the colourful houses overlooking the tiny harbour is the archetypal Italian Riviera vista. We continue to the attractive town of Santa Margherita Ligure for a stroll before returning by train to Chiavari.
Portovenere & Palmaria
A full day excursion by train and boat featuring a visit to the lovely fishing village of Portovenere and a sightseeing walk on the island of Palmaria (approx. 1 hour’s walk). Portovenere has a long and proud history, which has bequeathed the town a superb collection of ancient monuments, such as the Doria Castle and the Church of St. Peter.
CHOICE OF OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS
The Sanctuary of Montallegro
This half day excursion starts with a train journey to the pretty resort town of Rapallo, then a cable car ride up to the Sanctuary of Montallegro, perched high above the town with wonderful views across the surrounding area. You will walk back down the hill through the woods to the coast, where there’s the chance to do a little exploring in Rapallo. You will return to Chiavari this afternoon.
Genoa
This fascinating city combines a great history with its role as Italy’s most important port. Throughout the Middle Ages, Genoa was a great power, its success built upon its fleet. It is today a bustling centre, filled with historic gems in the old town.
Telephone Travelsphere on 0845 358 2368 now to reserve your spaceDates, Prices & Departure
holiday ref: GEICT
05/05/2009 £739
15/09/2009 £769
Deposit £100 per person
All prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin or double-bedded room with private facilities
Surcharges
The Pound has recently fallen significantly in value against other European currencies and, in common with many other businesses, our prices now include an additional charge for all new bookings which has been introduced to cover these additional costs.
Supplements
* Single room supplement £100
* Insurance
Travel Information
Flights are by scheduled services of British Airways Departing London Gatwick 0950 hrs Return arr. 1445 hrs All timings are approximate and may be subject to variation.
Regional Connecting Flights
If you can’t fly direct to your destination from your local airport we offer the choice to take a regional connecting flight to Heathrow or Gatwick from as little as £29 per person return. Fly from Aberdeen, Belfast, Durham Tees Valley, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Jersey, Leeds/Bradford, Manchester, Newcastle or Newquay. (From £29 for Worldwide holidays and from £69 for European holidays.)
Transfers
Transfer time from the airport to your hotel is approx. 2 hours.
Telephone Travelsphere on 0845 358 2368 now to reserve your space
STOP PRESS
Book any Travelsphere Holiday before 16th February 2009 and you could be one of five lucky winners of a £2,000 Travelsphere holiday voucher! Terms & Conditions apply
Apuane Alps - Mountain Walking In Tuscany with Sherpa Expeditions.
This remote area of northern Tuscany has an old world charm of its own. It is a world away from the towns and rolling hills of the south. The Apuane Alps are covered by a web of trails providing routes from hamlet to hilltop and beyond. You will experience superb scenery, mountain wilderness and tranquillity.
This trek has many attractive ingredients, from wide mountain vistas, to remote hamlets surrounded by forest and mountain scenery. There are few other walkers and the villagers make you feel truly welcome. From the small unassuming town of Fornaci di Barga we enter the Apuane forests, climbing up through chestnut woods and dropping down through vineyards to the ancient village of Verni. Here we enter an impressive series of limestone massifs that rise up to 2000m within a few kms of the sea, the Apuanes are famous for their scenery of white marble towers, abysses and the largest cave system in Italy.
En route to Trassilico (732m) we stumble across remote chapels, and abandoned farms. We climb Monte Forato (1223m) visit the ‘Grotta del Vento’ with its subterranean lakes and ‘living’ stalagmites and stalactites. From Fornovolasco there is a long day to make the optional ascent of Pania della Croce (1860m), the view from the summit is quite magnificent. Before dropping down to the old hermitage at Calomini and back to Fornaci.
Visit the Sherpa Expeditions Website for more details
Inn to Inn 8 days
Duration: 8 days
Tour Code: JAA
Grade: Moderate - Challenging
Day Stages: Minimum 10km, max 27km.
Click here for latest SELF-GUIDED prices
Start any day April to October
Your Accommodation
Accommodation in the Apuane Alps is generally of a more simple standard than one might expect in the more popular parts of Tuscany. It is however clean and comfortable. We spend our first and last night in Fornaci di Barga at a centrally located modern 3* hotel. Then a small, pension in the village of Verni which was once a Roman colony. The pension has a terrace with a wonderful view of Trassilico.Our next three nights are spent in Fornovolasco at a typical small unclassified hotel, the rooms are simply furnished and share a bathroom. The penultimate night is spent in a small apartment with its own private bathroom just 100m from the Monastery at the Eremo di Calomini, an ancient hermitage site carved into rock walls, and a superb restaurant.
Sherpa Notes
Accommodation & Meals
Good small hotels (ensuite rooms are not always available) and pensions with dinner, bed and breakfast throughout.
Way Marks
The route is well-waymarked by the Club Alpin Italiane with red signs. The trail is very remote, so map reading skills are recommended.
Travel via Air: British Airways (BA) services Gatwick to Pisa. Train, Pisa to Fornaci di Barga with one change in Lucca. Journey time 2hrs. (Not included). After breakfast on the final day, train from Fornaci to Pisa. Journey time 2hrs. (Not included)
For those who wish to spend more time in Tuscan cities, we recommend spending an extra day in the medieval city of Lucca at the end of the tour.
£10,000 holiday giveaway
Book any Travelsphere Holiday before 16th February 2009 and you could be one of five lucky winners of a £2,000 Travelsphere holiday voucher! Terms & conditions apply.
Visit the Sherpa Expeditions Website for more details
Walking in the Sorrento Hills with Travelsphere- 8 days from £699.
Explore the glorious Sorrento Peninsula with its winding roads and dramatic cliffs. Discover the beauty of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, venture up majestic Mount Vesuvius, and join our fabulous optional excursions to Pompeii and the island of Capri. Take time to wander through the cobbled streets of this historic area or stroll down to the picturesque harbours.
Telephone Travelsphere on 0845 358 2368 now to reserve your space
What's Included
* Return scheduled flights to Naples
* Transfers between airport and hotel
* Services of an air-conditioned executive coach
* Seven nights’ half board accommodation
* Services of a Get Up & Go Tour Manager
* Welcome drink * Three walks with a local guide as detailed
* Excursion to Naples
* All UK and overseas airport taxes and security charges
* Insurance and cancellation cover
Walking Information
Our walks require a reasonable level of fitness and ideally some previous walking experience. You will need comfortable walking boots, a small rucksack, waterproofs, a hat and sunglasses. A local guide will also accompany you on your walks.
Grade 1 Walks
These are for anyone of any age. Plenty of rest stops and time to enjoy the local scenery with up to 4 hours walking a day, mostly on good paths but occasionally rough underfoot. Ascent less than 300m per day.
Grade 2 Walks
These are moderate, for anyone who is comfortable walking hills. Still plenty of time to rest and enjoy the scenery, however up to 5 hours walking a day on slightly more rugged terrain. Ascent less than 500m per day.
Accommodation
You will stay in the comfortable medium grade Hotel Delle Palme in the village of Sant’ Agata 2½ miles from Sorrento. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and garden, bar, restaurant, terrace and lift. All bedrooms feature private facilities, TV, telephone and air-conditioning.Telephone Travelsphere on 0845 358 2368 now to reserve your spaceItinerary
DAY 1 - UK/ITALY
Depart on your scheduled flight to Naples. On arrival transfer to your hotel in the Sorrento area for a seven night stay.
DAYS 2 TO 7
Free to relax and enjoy our excursion programme. The following walks and activities are included:
Sorrento Hills
Offering wonderful panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples, your walk starts from Sant’ Agata village and finishes down in Sorrento town where you will have free time for shopping and sightseeing (approx. 1½ hours’ walk).
Mount Vesuvius
An exciting three-quarter day tour to this famous volcano, including a local volcanologist guide. Enjoy a walk up the mountain path overlooking the lava fields before continuing to the crater itself for a walk around the rim (approx. 2 hours’ walk).
Amalfi Coast
This coastline is simply stunning. We start above the fashionable resort of Positano, which clings precariously to the cliffside and walk up through olive groves and vineyards to the village of Montepertuso. Continue to Nocelle and take the ‘Footpath of the Gods’ with its many steps, back down to Praiano and our waiting coach (approx. 3 hours’ walk).
Naples
A superb full day excursion visiting firstly the National Archaeological Museum, housing the finest artefacts from Campania’s ancient sites, followed by a walking tour of this vibrant and chaotic city, birthplace of the pizza and Sophia Loren.
The following excursions are optional:
Pompeii
A three-quarter day trip including a guided walking tour of this ancient ruined city of the roman Empire, frozen in time when nearby Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79AD and buried the entire area under a layer of hot ash.
Capri
A full day excursion visiting the villages of Capri and Ana Capri, the Gardens of Caesar Augustus and see the Faraglioni Rocks.
DAY 8 - UK/ITALY
Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.
Dates, Prices & Departure
holiday ref: GEISF
28/04/2009 - £714
11/05/2009 - £749
21/09/2009 - £759
05/10/2009 - £699
Deposit £100 per person
All prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin or double-bedded room with private facilities
Surcharges
The Pound has recently fallen significantly in value against other European currencies and, in common with many other businesses, our prices now include an additional charge for all new bookings which has been introduced to cover these additional costs.
Supplements
* Single room £105
* Insurance
Travel Information
Flights are by scheduled services of British Airways Deaprting London Gatwick 1055 hrs Return arr. 1410 hrs All timings are approximate and may be subject to variation.
Fly From Your Local Airport
You can fly to your destination from the following airports at the supplement shown below (per person).
Heathrow £NIL
Manchester £NIL
Stansted £NIL
Regional Connecting Flights
If you can’t fly direct to your destination from your local airport we offer the choice to take a regional connecting flight to Heathrow or Gatwick from as little as £29 per person return. Fly from Aberdeen, Belfast, Durham Tees Valley, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Jersey, Leeds/Bradford, Manchester, Newcastle or Newquay. (From £29 for Worldwide holidays and from £69 for European holidays.)
Transfers
Transfer time from the airport to your hotel is approx. 1 hour 15 mins
Telephone Travelsphere on 0845 358 2368 now to reserve your space
STOP PRESS
Book any Travelsphere Holiday before 16th February 2009 and you could be one of five lucky winners of a GBP2,000 Travelsphere holiday voucher! Terms & Conditions apply
Posts
