Special Offer on Lonely Planet Italian Travel Guides

Lonely Planet are currently offering a whopping 30% off all print and downloadable travel guides.

Lonely Planet is renowned for its first-hand approach, up-to-date maps and commitment to providing the best information for travellers.

Lonely Planet authors are experienced, insightful travel experts. They personally research the places they write about - both in the first and in subsequent editions - and provide essential travel details along with a wealth of insider information and first-hand tips.

Take a look at the following inspiring titles to aid, inform, and inspire your Italian Walking Holiday:

The Italian Lakes Travel Guide
Was - £13.99, Now - £9.79
Released January 2010. Find out why the Italian Lakes are one of the most highly visited regions in Italy. Incredible vistas, medieval architecture, glorious gardens and local food and wine will delight you at every turn.

Naples and the Almafi Coast Travel Guide (3rd Ed.)
Was - £13.99, Now - UK £9.79
Released January 2010. Intensely beautiful and beautifully intense, Naples and the Amalfi Coast is the Italy of your wildest dreams. From sizzling Mount Vesuvius and the ruins of Pompeii to the cliff-gripping chic of Positano, drama defines the details.

Naples and the Amalfi Coast City Guide
Was -£12.99, Now - £9.09
Get your gangster swagger on and hit the caffeinated mayhem of Naples. It percolates in the shadow of a snoozing Mt Vesuvius, all drama and high-voltage street life. If you need to take it down a notch, head deep into Sorrento's unspoiled rural hinterland.

Northern Italy Travel Guide
Was - £8.99, Now - £6.29
Custom Guide. Made up of chapters from Lonely Planet's Italy, this guidebook covers the north, from Piedmont's truffle forests and Barolo vineyards to lakeside resorts in Lombardy and the arcaded walkways of Turin.

Puglia and Basilicata Travel Guide
Was - £14.99, Now - £10.49
The New York Times voted Puglia and Basilicata two of southern Italy's most up-and-coming destinations - and rightly so. This region burgeons with huge summer music gigs, unspoilt market towns and rural life.

Sardinia Travel Guide
Was - £13.99, Now - £9.79
With some of Italy's wildest countryside, over half its wetlands, 1731kms of pristine coastline and a seven-month summer, Sardinia is the original sun-and-sea summer destination.

Sicily Travel Guide
Was - £12.99, Now - £9.09
Sicily ticks all the right boxes for any visitor: history, architecture, culture, food, beaches, volcanoes, it's all there. But still this island has more.

Tuscany and Umbria Travel Guide (6th Ed.)
Was - £13.99, Now - £9.79
Released January 2010. This is the Italian double-act you've always dreamed of: beautiful, majestic Tuscany and Umbria, her mysterious landlocked cousin. Expect a show full of wondrous art, gorgeous scenery and stunning food and wine. Book your ticket now.

Tuscany and Umbria Travel Guide
Was - £12.99 , Now - £9.09
What's your idea of heaven? Food, wine and lolling around on a farm? Gazing at sublime medieval frescoes? Hiking around a shimmering lake? Whatever your paradise looks like, Tuscany and Umbria have got it covered.

Venice and The Veneto Travel Guide
Was - £12.99, Now - £9.09
Impossibly beautiful, hovering like a dream above its lagoon, fragile and utterly bewitching: Venice exhausts the superlatives.

Western Europe Travel Guide
Was - £17.99, Now - £12.59
Western Europe always inspires with its variety and volume of iconic attractions. This guide covers Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Britain, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Portugal and Spain.

Mediterranean Europe Travel Guide
Was - £17.99 , Now - £12.59
Who can resist the lure of the Mediterranean? This guide covers France, Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal, Croatia, Albania, Montenegro, Cyprus, Malta, Turkey and Morocco.

Late Availability - Walking Holidays in Italy

Travelsphere have late availability on the following walking holidays in Italy...

Walking in Tuscany
8 days from £780
Dates available: 07/09/2009
The beautiful rolling countryside of Tuscany is the perfect backdrop for this wonderful holiday. Our programme of scenic walks will introduce you to this unspoilt region with its enchanting hilltop towns, wine estates and historic architecture. It’s a truly relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Walking in Sicily
8 days from £855
Dates available: 09/09/2009
This superb holiday takes you to northern Sicily and the beautiful Saracen Coast. It is an area of secluded bays and coves, fertile mountains and charming villages. You will walk in the lovely Nebrodi National Park, rich in flora and fauna and, of course, on the slopes of the famous volcano, Mount Etna.

Walking in the Dolomites
10 days from £539
Dates available: 13/09/2009
Visitors have marvelled over Lake Molveno in northern Italy for over 100 years, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Brenta Dolomites. The region is a paradise of woods and meadows and is the ideal location for this walking programme.

For more information telephone 0845 358 2368

Sicilian Volcano Trail with GAP Adventures

Hiking on the edge! A week of Mediterranean villages, black sand beaches, and unforgettable hikes over 3 active volcanoes: Vulcano; Stromboli, one of the most active volcanoes in the world; and mighty Etna, Europe's highest active volcano.

Visit the GAP Adventures website for more information

Itinerary Day 1 Catania - Arrive in Catania at any time. There are no planned activities, so check into the hotel (check-in time is approx 3pm) and enjoy the city. In the evening, you will meet your fellow group members to go over the details of your trip and for the leader to collect your local payment. Check the notice board (or ask reception) for the exact time and location of this group meeting. After the meeting we will be heading out for a meal in a nearby local restaurant (optional). If you arrive late, no worries, the leader will leave you a message at the front desk.

Day 2 Lipari (B,D) - Start the day with an easy 3-hour hike on the island of Lipari. First, travel overland to Milazzo harbour, where a hydrofoil takes us to Lipari Island. In the afternoon, join an easy hike to the south coast of the island, with wonderful views of Vulcano Island’s crater. The evening is free to relax before our first dinner as a group in the small harbour of Marina Corta, Lipari’s nightlife centre, with plenty of bars and small restaurants. Lipari is the biggest island in the Aeolian Archipelago, and the only island in which man has been living continuously for 6000 years. Worth visiting in Lipari are its 18th Century castle and cathedral, and the Archaeological Museum, one of the most important in Italy.

Day 3 Vulcano (B) - Today we venture to Vulcano via a short hydrofoil ride. One of the seven Aeolian Islands, Vulcano is famous for its black beaches and thermal springs. A 3-hour hike takes us to Vulcano’s crater where we should be able to see ‘fumaroles’ (gaseous eruptions). Afterwards, relax on the beach or go for a dip in the thermal springs. In the late afternoon return to Lipari by hydrofoil; free evening to wander Lipari’s centre or visit the excellent Archaeological Museum. The Aeolian Islands Archipelago is made up of 7 islands: Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, Panarea, Stromboli, Filicudi and Alicudi. It is a land of contrasts: vast ebony beaches against light-coloured shores; inaccessible and winding coasts drop down to low, hospitable rivieras; large sterile areas extend alongside fertile, pleasant gardens. The geography is often strange, with perforated rocks resembling bridges and arches (I faraglioni), areas where the sea boils from underwater fumaroles, and rocks peppered with holes from which boiling water gushes. Another attraction of the Aeolian Islands is the therapeutic hot springs of Vulcano. The island of Vulcano was deserted long ago due to its strong volcanic activity; its last major eruption happened in 1888. Today the volcanic activity is limited to the fumaroles concentrated on the rim of the crater, at 390m above sea level. The word "volcano" owes it's origin to Vulcano: Vulcan, the Roman god of fire (who was responsible for making the weapons of the gods) was said to live within the volcano we call Vulcano. Fumaroles refer to volcanic activity that consists of a vent or opening, through which steam, hydrogen sulphide, or other gases escape. The craters of many dormant volcanoes contain active fumaroles, and Vulcano’s are easy to see (and smell!) as soon as you arrive on the island.

Day 4 Stromboli (B) - Embark on a boat ride on the Tyrrhenian Sea today, to the island of Stromboli, where we enjoy a sunset trek. A 4-hour hike takes us to the western side of the island, and the “Sciara del Fuoco,” where the power of this active volcano is easy to see. After watching the glow of the lava, we return to the village for a night on Stromboli Island. Stromboli Island is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and the only island of the archipelago with permanent—and spectacular—volcanic activity. For more then 20,000 years, Stromboli has been constantly erupting, about every 20 minutes: a guaranteed show! 2000 years ago, Romans used the light of the explosions for sea navigation. The “Sciara del Fuoco” is a huge scar left when one section of the northwest side of the volcano collapsed about 5000 years ago. Today, this scar is mostly filled with the products of Stromboli’s more recent eruptions. Here, lava stones expulsed from the craters fall dramatically into the sea, rolling down a natural landslide.

Day 5 Stromboli (B) - Take time to relax this morning on the unique black beaches, or visit the lovely village of San Vincenzo. In the afternoon, leave on a 6-hour hike to the active volcano, accompanied by certified volcano guides. Along the way, learn more about volcanoes, and how life on the islands is governed by these natural wonders. San Vincenzo is the main village at the foot of the volcano. Here, about 500 people live off an economy based almost exclusively on fishing and tourism. The volcano of Stromboli is 924m high, and according to Italian law can be climbed to the top if escorted by a certified volcano guide. The volcano guides reserve the right to decide whether it is safe to climb, whether due to volcanic activity (constantly monitored), weather, or physical condition of the hikers. The hike takes about 6 hours, and is demanding; we start in the afternoon and return after the sunset, in order to fully appreciate and enjoy the red colors of the lava.

Day 6 Etna North (B,D) - In the morning travel back to the Sicilian mainland via hydrofoil. From Milazzo Harbour, travel to the northern side of Mt Etna, (1460m). Before dinner we take a short walk on Etna, over the area of lava flow from a 2002 eruption. Tonight we taste some of the fine local cuisine, and stay in a local mountain hotel. Mt Etna has a boundary of 250km, covers 1260 square metres, and rises to 3350m, making it the largest (as well as the highest active) volcano in Europe. Its height varies as a result of on-going constructive and destructive explosive activity that constantly reshapes the summit crater area. The volcano offers many different landscapes, from the black flows of lava and vast plain of black sand to luxuriant vegetation on the lower slopes. There, Mt Etna abounds with oak and chestnut forests, punctuated by ancient man-made terraces where premier-quality vineyards, pears and apple orchards, hazelnut and pistachio groves grow.

Day 7 Mt Etna/Catania (B,L,D) - Today explore one of the world's most famous active volcanoes, Mt Etna, before one last group dinner in Catania. A 6-hour hike takes us to the northern area of the volcano, to see the area affected by the most recent (2002-2003) eruption: a crater line called The Bottoniera. Our walk takes us through woods, lava tunnel and different lava flows where you can experience the power of this volcano first hand. Mt Etna is known for having the world’s longest period of documented eruptions, with a variety of eruption styles. Depending on weather and volcanic conditions, there may be the option of an excursion by 4x4 jeeps to climb as high as 2900m, continuing on foot to 3350m (escorted by a volcano or alpine guide), returning on foot to the chalet. (6 hours hiking, 450m ascent, 1550m descent)

Day 8 Depart Catania (B) - You are free to depart at any time on Day 8, though remember check out from the hotel is approx 11am.

Sicilian Volcano Trail
8 days ex Catania
Trip Code: EISV
Lipari, Aeolian Islands, hikes to steaming craters and lava-spewing fissures, Vulcano hot springs, Stromboli, Mt. Etna, southern Italian cuisine
£709 + Local Payment 250 EUR

Optional - My Own Room for an additional £139 Guaranteed - Dates marked with a G are guaranteed to run once you have booked. Dates marked with a D are special discounted departures

What's Included: Lipari hike, Vulcano Islands crater hike, Stromboli hike with Certified Volcano Guide, hike to Mt Etna lava flow and The Bottoniera.

Trip Style: Active
This has to beat the treadmill at the gym! Our range of Active trips adds the thrill of a physical challenge to your holiday. So if you like nothing more than hitting the trail at sunrise, peddling along mountain passes or kayaking along fast flowing rivers, then Active adventures are just what you’re looking for. Be warned – you’ll work up a sweat, but you will have access to sights and experiences other travellers would consider privileged to see!

Group Leader: Tour leader throughout, local guides, certified volcano guide

Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10

Meals Included: 7 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 3 Dinners.

Transport: Private and public bus, Hydrofoils, Boat, Walking.

Single Travellers: We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Accommodation: Hotel (7 nts).
Joining Hotel: Hotel La Collegiata Via Vasta, 10-angolo Via Etnea Catania, Sicily, Italy

Physical Rating: Each trip is rated based on physical demands. This rating will help you to choose a trip that is suitable to your level of fitness and maximize your enjoyment.
- You will have to get around on your own, up and down hotel steps and carry your own bag.
- Light walking and hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels.
- May include moderate hiking, biking, rafting, kayaking and other activities that require only an average/moderate level of fitness to enjoy.
- May include high altitude hiking of up to 8 hours/day or other activities that require a moderately high level of fitness.
- High altitude trekking or cycling, suitable for those with a high level of fitness and endurance.

Please note: Many G.A.P Adventures trips include only one 'Physical Grading' element that may increase the overall rating of a trip to a higher level. You can choose not to participate in these activities. For specific trip information, refer to the Trip Details document, or contact our sales department.

Important Notes: Option: According to the weather and volcanic conditions, chance to climb by 4x4 jeeps until 2900 mt and on foot to 3350 mt escorted by a volcano guide. Return on foot to the chalet (6 hours hiking, + 450 – 1550 mt). Supplement to be paid on the spot: per person € 80 (4-5 pax) € 65 (6-8 pax) € 55 (9-12 pax) € 45 (13-15 pax)

Visit the GAP Adventures website for more information

Walking Holiday in Sicily with Travelsphere. 8 days from £799.

Walking Holiday in Sicily with Travelsphere. 8 days from £799. Fly from Gatwick

This superb holiday takes you to northern Sicily and the beautiful Saracen Coast. It is an area of secluded bays and coves, fertile mountains and charming villages. You will walk in the lovely Nebrodi National Park, rich in flora and fauna and, of course, on the slopes of the famous volcano, Mount Etna.

Telephone Travelsphere on 0845 358 2368 to reserve your space

What's Included
* Return scheduled flights to Catania
* Transfers between airport and hotel
* Services of an air-conditioned executive coach
* Seven nights’ half board accommodation
* Welcome drink
* Services of a Get Up & Go Tour Manager
* Three walks with a local guide and excursions as detailed
* Sicilian evening
* Two picnic lunches and wine tasting
* 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 family run Hotel il Mulino, centrally located in Capo d’Orlando. recently renovated, the hotel enjoys a seafront location and amenities include a bar, lift and restaurant which serves buffet breakfast. All bedrooms have private facilities, TV, minibar and telephone.

Itinerary

DAY 1 - UK/SICILY
Depart on your scheduled flight to Catania. On arrival transfer to your resort hotel for a seven night stay.

DAYS 2 TO 7 - CAPO D’ORLANDO
Free to relax and enjoy our great range of included walks:

Mangalaviti Woodland Walk - This marvellous three-quarter day excursion takes you to this lovely wood set in a picturesque ravine in the Nebrodi National Park. A picnic lunch is included (approx. 4 hours’ walk). Landscapes of the Nebrodi Mountains - A wonderful walk along the verdant Nebrodi hillsides, with magnificent views of the mountains. A picnic lunch is included (approx. 5 hours’ walk).

Mount Etna - We drive through beautiful forests to Piano Provenzana, from where you can join a walk around the lava flows from the 2003 eruption (approx. 2½ hours’ walk), or take a jeep ride to the highest accessible point on the mountain (extra cost). You will have time for lunch (not included) followed by a visit to a nearby cantina for a guided tour and a tasting of the local wine plus traditional specialities such as cheese and olives.

Tindari - This half day tour takes you to the Sanctuary of the black Madonna, an icon of Byzantine origin housed in a modern church. Enjoy a walk around the ancient town with its well preserved Greco-roman theatre and basilica. The following excursions are optional:

Lipari - A full day trip to the largest of the Aeolian Islands, just off the north coast of Sicily.

Taormina - A three-quarter day tour to this picturesque cliff-top resort, famed for its Greek amphitheatre and views over Mount Etna. Take a stroll through the historic centre and the beautiful public gardens. On one evening there will be an included Sicilian dinner at a local restaurant with traditional live music.

DAY 8 - SICILY/UK
Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.

Dates, Prices & Departure
holiday ref: GEISI

Departure Dates & Price
08/05/2009 - £819
11/06/2009 - £889
08/09/2009 - £889
06/10/2009 - £799

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 £90
* Insurance

Travel Information
Flights are by scheduled services of British Airways
Departing London Gatwick 1030 hrs, Return arr. 1740 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 to reserve your space