Walks Worldwide expands programme to Germany

Germany is one of the most overlooked holiday destinations and yet is home to some of the best walking trails in Europe. Walks Worldwide – the UK’s leading independent specialist tour operator – has a choice of four itineraries, three of which are brand new for 2009.

The E5 Across the Alps (small groups) – 10 days from £1195 pp

The E5 is one of Europe's most challenging trails with one section crossing the Alps from Bavaria across the glaciated mountains of the Austrian Tyrol to 'Mediterranean' Merano in Italy. Accompanied by an experienced mountain guide you will enjoy dramatic scenery, alpine flowers, glaciers, rugged peaks and picturesque meadows whilst experiencing authentic Bavarian and Tyrolean hospitality and hearty cuisine, in welcoming, family-run guesthouses. The trip provides the chance to follow 200kms of this ancient trail through meadows, over passes, past glacial lakes and across alpine plateaux, home to the rare steinbocke sheep. The small-group holiday departs between June and September and costs from £1195 pp which includes 9 nights’ accommodation, most meals, transfers and a guide. Call 01524 242 000 (http://www.walksworldwide.com/)

Bavaria – In Search of the Swan King (self guided) – 9 days from £985 pp

Said to be mad, King Ludwig II (the 'Swan King') the eccentric King of Bavaria left behind a legacy of some of Europe’s most extravagant architecture. The Swan King is probably best known for creating the fantasy castle of Schloss Neuschwanstein, which is without doubt the most famous and iconic landmark in Bavaria. Walking through Bavarian villages, there are numerous castles to enjoy including Falkenstein, the highest castle in Germany, and at Fussen, there will be time to visit iconic Neuschwanstein and, if you feel up to it, a hike to the top of Tegelberg (1730m) for fine Alpine views. The trail continues upwards to King Ludwig's old, historic hunting cabin at Bleckenau (1167m) and beyond to the Alpe Jagerhutte (1435m). Many other spectacular castles will be seen along the way. The trip can depart any day between May and October and costs from £985 pp (two sharing) which includes train tickets for airport transfers, luggage transfers (whilst walking), 8 nights’ B&B, guide notes and maps. Call 01524 242 000 (http://www.walksworldwide.com/)

The Best of the Rheinsteig (self guided) – 8 days from £595 pp

The 'Rheinsteig' is a new, fully way-marked trail following the course of the River Rhine upstream, through romantic countryside, famous for its castles, vineyards, culture, history, nature and landscapes. Although the entire Rheinsteig is some 320 kilometres in length, Walks Worldwide has selected the best section of this brand new trail so that it can be enjoyed over a week's holiday. You follow the Rhine from the charming city of Koblenz to Rudesheim, walking an average of 20 kilometres per day through an ever-changing landscape, with lots of interesting sights along the way. Dramatic castles perched high above the Rhine are frequent along the route. The holiday can depart any day during the summer months and costs from £595 pp (two sharing) which includes 7 nights’ accommodation in comfortable hotels (with breakfast), route notes and maps. Call 01524 242 000 (http://www.walksworldwide.com/).

Ends 30 June 2009

For further press information call Mick Thompson or Jane Parritt at Media Contacts PR
on 012367 820 766 (mick@mediacontactspr.co.uk).