The Triglav Challenge, 4 days from £495 pp

Slovenia is one of Europe’s most under-rated destinations and the rugged Julian Alps are comparable to the Dolomites and form the northernmost part of the Dinaric Alps that stretch down through the Balkans to Bosnia and Albania. Mount Triglav (known locally as 'Old Mr. Three Heads') is the highest peak in the region rising to 2864 metres and every Slovenian is expected to conquer it at least once!

This new short walking break to the summit of Mount Triglav is ideal for the strong, experienced mountain walker in need of a 'quick fix' and it also includes the chance to experience a via ferrata. Walkers need to be fit with almost 2000 metres of ascent and descent, with up to 8 hours walking each day. On the walk a professional, licensed, English-speaking Slovenian mountain guide will accompany you.

The trip can commence any day in July and costs from £495 pp which includes 3 nights’ accommodation, some meals, transfers and the services of a guide. Flights can be booked on request. Call 01524 242 000 (www.walksworldwide.com).

Walking calories off in the Dordogne – 8 days from £780 pp

The perfect way in which to enjoy gastronomic food without worrying about piling on the pounds is on Walks Worldwide’s 8 day Dordogne Encounters holiday departing any day in July or August. You will discover trails bursting with wild flowers, sunflower fields and orchards of walnuts between timeless villages built of sun-warmed stone.

Places visited include Rocamadour, Sarlat, Les Eyzies and Domme, all of which conjure up historic images of this delightful corner of south-western France. While you walk the baggage is transferred to your next night’s stop.

The holiday costs from £780 pp (two sharing), which includes 7 nights’ accommodation, most meals, baggage transfers, route notes and maps. A 14 night itinerary is also available from £1120 pp. Call 01524 242000 (www.walksworldwide.com).

Guided walk along the Camino de Santiago Pilgrim’s Way

Few trails in the world have been walked by so many as the Pilgrim’s Way in the northwest of Spain; over the centuries millions have walked the trail to venerate the tomb of the Apostle St. James – Santiago.

Walks Worldwide has two special guided small group departures for its 11-day Camino de Santiago walk departing 4 September and 9 October 2009. The trips are particularly well-suited to those who wish to travel alone with like-minded people.

The guided walk offers several other advantages over the independent version, the most important of which is the services of a bi-lingual tour leader who is an expert in the history of the trail and Spain, and can add colour as the group makes progress with fascinating facts and stories. There is also the convenience of a support vehicle which has refreshments and carries luggage.

The 100km walk commences in the city of Leon, where special pilgrims’ passports are collected. The 11-day trip provides plenty of time to complete the walk and enjoy places visited along the way, and an extra two days are allowed to explore the fascinating section to Sarria.

The final destination is Santiago de Compostela, where two nights are spent allowing plenty of time to enjoy the historic city with its famous 15th Century cathedral.

Departing 4 September or 9 October 2009, the holiday costs from £1865 pp which includes flights, all transportation, 10 nights’ accommodation, most meals, support bus, entrance fees to places of interest visited and the services of a bilingual expert guide. The price is based on two sharing a room but single travellers have the option of sharing a room with other single people to avoid single supplements.

Call 01524 242 000 (www.walksworldwide.com).

Ends 30 June 2009

For further press information call Mick Thompson or Jane Parritt at Media Contacts PR on 01367 820 766 (mick@mediacontactspr.co.uk).

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).

Corsica’s GR20 named Europe’s toughest trek

The UK’s leading specialist walking holiday company – Yorkshire Dales based Walks Worldwide – claims that the GR20 in Corsica is probably the toughest trek that can be found close to home.

Comments Mike Wynne, Managing Director of Walks Worldwide: “The classic GR20 ridge walk in Corsica is, in my opinion, the most spectacular and challenging trek in Europe. It traverses the island diagonally following the high granite barrier of mountains that form the natural boundary across the country.

“The trail offers some fantastic scenery, along with an insight into the authentic and traditional working mountain community. You will meet the last of the shepherds that still follow the age-old transhumance lifestyle, where they pass the summer months with their flocks on the high fresh airy pastures and the winter months down by the coast.”

The accommodation for the trip is varied; a mix of camps, refuges, gîtes and shepherds' cabins, situated in places of exceptional beauty (and renowned for stunning views and fine local wines and cheeses).

The trail winds through some incredible mountain terrain remaining almost in entirety over 1000 metres; steep ascents over high ridges, deep descents into dramatic chasms, some 'via ferrata' across granite slopes with the option of scaling the occasional peak.

The trek culminates in some fabulously challenging ascents over high mountain passes with the possibility (weather depending) of summiting Paglia Orba (2525 metres). Saving the best till last, the famous Cirque de la Solitude is the most stimulating section of the trek leaving walkers who complete the trail with a remarkable sense of achievement.

The holiday ends at the small coastal town of Bastia (except for the September departure which ends in Calvi) with time to enjoy the street cafes, shops, restaurants and the comfort of a hotel bed – to sleep like a baby.

The15-day trips depart in June, July, August and September and costs from £1450 pp. This includes flights, all transportation, 14 nights’ accommodation, most meals, baggage transfers and guide.

Call 01524 242 000 (www.walksworldwide.com).

Ends 30 June 2009

For further press information contact Mick Thompson or Jane Parritt at Media Contacts PR on 01367 820 766 (mick@mediacontactspr.co.uk).

£100 off holidays to Greece in 2009 with Walks Worldwide

http://www.walksworldwide.com/country/greece_cyprus.html

Walks Worldwide has joined forces with The Greek Ministry of Tourism to offer £100 per person off the brochure price for the first 30 people to book a Walks Worldwide holiday to Greece during 2009.

The offer is the initiative of the Ministry’s rural tourism arm as an incentive for more people to discover and explore the fabulous Greek countryside.

So why not take this opportunity to be one of the first to discover Walks Worldwide’s new self-guided trip in the Pindos Mountains, Zagoria and Vikos Gorge Trekking, between May and September? The price is now from £1030pp* (click for details).

The ever popular Corfu Trail can now be enjoyed as either an 8, 10 or 15 day holiday during April, May, June, September and October. The walk takes you through rural areas of this delightful island, away from the crowds who tend to stick to the beaches! The prices for the trips are from £755 for the 15 day trip*, from £550 for the 10 day trip* and from £475 for the 8 day trip* (click for details).

Another option is the hike to the Mount Olympus region, with guided group departures for those who want to bag the summit, and easier self guided walks in the area for the less ambitious. The new price is from £695* (click for details).

On the delightful green Pelion peninsular, accessed via Volos, Walks Worldwide offers a twin centre self guided walk during April, May, June, September and October. On The Pelion Ramble you may hardly see another soul! The new lower price is from £695 pp* (click for details).

Finally down in the Peloponnese, A Taste of Mani is a centre-based trip, where there are a variety of Walks to chose from, sea caves, Byzantine towns and rural markets to visit. From £675 pp* (click for details).

*All ‘from’ prices quoted are for the first 30 people to book a walking holiday to Greece.

If you have travelled with Walks Worldwide before, trips mentioned above can be combined with the Loyalty scheme which gives a further £150 off.

Call 01524 242 000 (http://www.walksworldwide.com/).

For more information on tourism opportunities in rural Greece, visit http://www.agrotravel.gr/

Ends April 2009

For further press information call Mick Thompson at Media Contacts PR on 01367 820 766 (mailto:mick@mediacontactspr.co.ukj).

Is Romania set to become the new Morocco?

Walks Worldwide, the UK’s leading walking holiday company, claims that Romania is set to become the next hot destination. Located in southeast Europe, bordering the Black Sea between Bulgaria, Hungary, Serbia and Ukraine, Romania is just over 3 hours flying time from the UK yet in the Carpathians it is like travelling back in time to the Europe that was. Steeped in history, folklore and culture with medieval Saxon cities, stunning mountainous scenery, timeless villages, and some of the most hospitable people in Europe, add up to make Romania a first class destination.

Walks Worldwide has introduced 5 brand new trips to Romania, virtually unique to the UK market for 2009; based on their own personal adventures in this fascinating country.

Transylvania – Walks in the enchanted land of Dracula (8 days from £945 pp) [click for details].

Apuseni – Land of the Sunset (8 days from £1095) [click for details].

Fagaras - The Haute Route of Transylvania (5 days from £750 pp) [click for details].

Mountains and Monasteries of Bucovina (9 days from £1195 pp) [click for details].

Mythical Maramures – Where Earth meets Heaven (8 days from £1095 pp) [click for details].

Holidays include all ground transportation, accommodation, most meals and the dedicated services of an English speaking guide. Walks Worldwide can also book flights and arrange varied extensions to these holidays on request.

New 2009 Brochure - Out Now!

The new 2009 brochure from Walks Worldwide, the walking holiday specialists, offers a superb portfolio of private guided treks, guided and self-guided, open-dated departures and ‘In Style’ walking tours (the connoisseur’s choice). For 2009, Walks Worldwide has added 54 new tours, including a greatly expanded programme in Eastern Europe and South America, plus a whole new section dedicated to their increasingly popular ‘In Style’ tours – great for trekkers who prefer a bit of luxury at the end of a day! Many guided tours are now open-dated, offering greater flexibility and, unlike many ‘rival’ operators, available for a minimum of two travelling together. Perfect for those who want independence with the benefit of their very own local guide.

The dedicated team at Walks Worldwide combines years of firsthand experience and is genuinely enthusiastic about each of the countries they visit - all keen walkers too! Want to know the best Inca route to Machu Picchu, be one of the first to try Husky Trekking in Finland – walkies here takes on a whole new meaning, unravel the secrets of Romania’s mythical Maramures – an ancient land of wooden churches, or visit the only town in the US where the mail is still carried by mule? Ask Walks Worldwide, they’ve been there, done that…

Headliner trips for 2009 include:

FINLAND - Husky Trekking: 8-day guided tour with scheduled departures in June & Aug 09 - £895 p/p (land only).
A brand new tour exclusive to Walks Worldwide - dog-assisted walking with your very own Husky in Finland’s wild forests. Arctic dogs have traditionally been used for many purposes, and when there is no snow, they’re used for carrying packs and also to help humans walk faster by utilising a special leash tied to a harness. It’s not a walk in the park, and to fully enjoy this incredible experience, you need to be strong and a dog lover – Nordic Hiking is sooo last year!
ROMANIA – Mythical Maramures: 8-day guided tour departing May-Oct 09 (min 2 persons) - £1,095 p/p (land only).
A new walking holiday in the remote Maramures region of Romania, offers a journey back in time into a rural medieval life that will enchant even the most jaded world traveller. Visit the ‘Merry Cemetery’ as seen on Michael Palin’s BBC TV series New Europe, and the ancient hand-built wooden churches, many of which are now World Heritage sites.

USA – Canyons of the South West: 14-day self-drive tour with guided walking departing 09 daily - £2,895 p/p (land only).
This itinerary combines the independence of a self-drive tour with guided off-trail trekking in some of the country’s best national parks. Explore the Grand Canyon, Escalante River and famous ‘Grand Staircase’, Navajo and Havasupai Indian Reservations, Bryce and Zion NPs. Later, visit the only town in the US where mail is still carried by mule and stay in ‘The Most Beautiful Place in America’ – Sedona.

PERU – Salkantay Luxury Lodge Trek: 17-day guided group tour departing March-Dec 09 – from £2,995 p/p (land only).
Why follow in the footsteps of the Inca Trail hordes when you can trek to Machu Picchu along the magnificent Salkantay Trail? With breathtaking views around every corner this tough trail is hugely rewarding, even better when trekking ‘In Style’, from one luxurious eco-lodge to another. Take a dip in the stunning glacial lagoon at the foot of mystical Salkantay (6,271m), the second most important Inca peak, or enjoy the scenery amidst the bubbles of an outdoor Jacuzzi, just one of the little luxuries available on a superb new tour.

Click here to go to new digital brochure.

NEW - CONDOR PASS AND LOS LLANOS

Trek in the northern tip of the Andes, explore the wild plains and swamps of Los Llanos and experience the world's highest free-falling waterfall, Angel Falls. Walks Worldwide’s NEW guided, 13-day The Condor Pass and Los Llanos tour departs London daily throughout 2008 and 2009 – available NOW!

After an initial night in Caracas, transfer to the city of Merida, located on a high plateau surrounded by 'Las Cinco Aguilas Blancas' - Venezuela's five highest peaks including Pico Bolivar (5,007m). After time soaking up the atmosphere and sampling the local delicacy - Andean trout, head south to Sierra Nevada National Park, encompassing an area of 130,000 acres, part of the Andean ranges and offering fine examples of high mountain pine forests, páramo, Frailejones (endemic shrub), glacial lagoons and a wide variety of animals. Here to is Mucubaji Lagoon - the largest lagoon in the park, and behind it the suitably majestic Mucunuque Peak (4,672m). Running parallel to the Sierra Nevada is a slightly lower chain of mountains – La Culata, home to one of the world’s largest flying birds - Andean Condor, with wingspans of up to 3.5m. Here, the park offers vast, windswept vistas across a treeless terrain, dotted with wildflowers and spectacular waterfalls. Follow the aptly named ‘Condor Pass’, ascend Pan de Azucar (4,747m) for breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Maracaibo and the Sierra Nevada, then descend to the valley floor through one of the most beautiful valleys in the Venezuelan Andes, passing villages and cultivated fields en route - in time for a well-earned soak in conveniently located hot springs! The journey continues into the Llanos (grasslands) of Venezuela where a 53,000 square hectare cattle ranch provides an incredible wildlife habitat. Enjoy a 4x4 'safari' in specially converted vehicles for further opportunities to observe wildlife, including caimans and Anacondas! Finally, spend 2-days exploring the landscape surrounding the world's highest single drop waterfall, Angel Falls. Soak up the atmosphere of raging spray during a cruise close to the falls, walk behind the watery curtain of Sapito Falls, trek through lush primary rainforest to the base of Angel Falls, and finally take a dip in the water, relaxing on the sun-heated boulders, before returning to Caracas for homeward flights.

The tour costs from £2,395 including international and internal flights, pre-paid taxes, transfers, hotel, lodge and camp accommodation, most meals, camping equipment (not sleeping bags) and an expert guide.

Click here to see more walking holidaysin the America's .

PATAGONIA ADVENTURE

Walks Worldwide’s 19-day Patagonian Adventure guided trek through a wild corner of the Andes, where ice and time have shaped an unbelievable landscape of breathtaking spires, dramatic glaciers, azure lakes and sub-Antarctic forests, should top lots of travellers’ wish lists for 2009! Even more so when you add in seductive Buenos Aires and isolated Tierra del Fuego, the ultimate end of the world experience for true adventure-seekers! Tours depart Buenos Aires every Friday and Sunday from now until March 09. (Fridays only Feb & March).

Sultry, seductive Buenos Aires, kick starts Walks Worldwide’s itinerary, where footwork here is more about seeking out the juiciest steak, and hottest tango venue! Trekking proper begins from El Chalten, gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. From a stunning lagoon campsite, trek through the dense forest to impressive Chorillo Falls and Fitz Roy Base Camp for panoramic views of Cerro Poincenot and Mount Fitz Roy (3,441 metres). Visit magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier and watch giant icebergs crash into aquamarine waters below. Cross into Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park, for the next leg of the journey. Trek beneath the majestic Paine massif, a colossus of granite with its hanging glaciers and views of ancient forests and distant Andean ranges. Ascend to Las Torres base camp, an amazing natural amphitheatre beneath vertical granite towers soaring 2,800 metres skyward, and picnic overlooking Grey Glacier, the largest and most spectacular glacier inside the park. On the final part of the journey travellers follow in the wake of early explorers, sailing across the Straits of Magellan to the ends of the earth, Tierra del Fuego.

The tour costs £2,395 p/p (land only) or from £3,195 p/p (with flights) including hotel, hosterias, refuge and camping accommodation, most meals, transfers, camping equipment and expert guiding.

Click here to see more South American holidays.

NEW SRI LANKA - DISCOVER PARADISE ISLAND

Along with sun-drenched, palm-fringed sandy beaches and the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka offers an incredible variety of landscapes and cultures, an abundance of plant and wildlife as well as a wealth of historical and archaeological treasures. Watch the sunrise from sacred Adam’s Peak, trek to World’s End and visit the ‘Fortress in the Sky’ during Walks Worldwide’s NEW 10-day, guided Island Paradise Hiking, with daily seasonal departures from London – best time to go - NOW till May 09.

On arrival in Colombo, transfer to Negombo beach resort for an initial night. From here, discover local village life along the coast before climbing to the rock fortress of Sigiriya, ‘The Fortress in the Sky’, and it’s a magnificent complex of geometrically laid gardens, pools and fountains. Next, explore Knuckles Mountain Range (so named since it resembles the knuckles of clenched fist), offering numerous trails amongst 155km² of spectacular mountain scenery - cross crystal clear rivers, walk through dense forest and encounter spectacular waterfalls together with lush tea and cardamom plantations. Next, enjoy the tranquility at Kandy’s Udawattakele Forest Reserve, only 'disturbed' by the sound of tropical birds and the cries of small Macaque monkeys! Later, a pre-dawn ascent of Sri Pada ('sacred footprint') rock formation, and the summit of Adam's Peak (2,225m) - Sri Lanka’s highest mountain, sacred to four of the world's major religions - Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity and Islam, offers breathtaking sunrise panoramas - and perhaps some enlightenment! Explore the upper montane forest and wet patana grassland of Horton Plains National Park, situated on Sri Lanka 's highest plateau (over 2,000m), keeping watch for elusive Leopard, Sambar Deer and Bear Monkey, before crossing the desolate plains to World’s End, a spectacular, aptly named precipice plummeting over 1,000m.

The holiday costs £760 p/p (land only) including transfers, beach resort and lodge accommodation, all meals and the expertise of a local guide.

Click here to see more Asian holidays.

NEW TOUR - RORAIMA TEPUI & ANGEL FALLS

Walks Worldwide’s exhilarating new 16-day fully guided walking holiday in Venezuela’s Gran Sabana treks to the most famous tepui of all – Roraima, inspiration for Conan Doyle’s The Lost World, and visits the world’s highest single drop waterfall – Angel Falls. Departures from London are available daily, year-round (wet season is May-November, but don’t be put off, wildlife is more active during this time).

The journey begins in tropical Caracas, a city of soaring skyscrapers, old colonial buildings and some of the hottest and steamiest salsa venues anywhere. Depending on arrival time, explore the city before transferring to Puerto Ordaz on the mighty Orinoco River. From here, head south along the Pan American Highway to the savannah lands of La Gran Sabana. This green plateau situated 1,000 metres above sea level, is scattered with dramatic mist-shrouded table mountains known as tepuis. These near vertical formations dominating the surrounding plateau, were the inspiration for Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic The Lost World. Biologically unique, these mesas are some of the oldest rock formations on earth, boasting distinctive animal and plant life. Four days of trekking through an impressive landscape of savannah and virgin rainforest ensue, before tackling the most infamous of all tepuis, Roraima. Often described as an ‘island in the sky’ due to the frequently mist-enveloped savannah below making Roraima appear to float in the clouds. It’s a five-day round trip to the summit of Roraima and back, and although no mountaineering skills are necessary, it’s nevertheless a challenging trek. The holiday culminates with a visit to the incredible Angel Falls, where a dip beneath the falls surely offers the ultimate in refreshment!

The tour costs from £2,595 p/p including scheduled flights, transfers, accommodation, some meals and expert guiding.

Click here to see more Venezuelan walking holidays.

CHRISTMAS WALKING - MOROCCO’S JEBEL SAHRO

As the pre-Christmas frenzy cranks up, there’s still time to book a festive escape. Walks Worldwide has late availability on its 10-day guided winter walking holiday in Morocco’s Jebel Sahro, departing Marrakech 19th December, just before the ‘big fella’ puts in an appearance!

Visit the relatively low and gentle Jebel Sahro region of the Atlas mountains on the fringe of the Sahara, walking through semi-desert, passing stunning wind-eroded rock formations of Tadout n’ Tablah and Bab N’ Ali, green oases and gently trickling streams. During the winter months when snow turns the High Atlas into a skier's domain, the Jebel Sahro provides a delightfully contrasting walking area with warm daytime temperatures usual in December (no red noses here!). Sparsely populated by the gentle Ait Atta Berbers and infrequently visited, the region offers mostly easy walking terrain with the optional ascent of a couple of peaks, including Jebel Sahro’s highest summit, Amalou n’ Mansour (2,712 metres). Spend a final day in fascinating Marrakech, and as dusk falls, watch the drama unfold when storytellers, acrobats, snake charmers and cooks with their steaming stalls, throng the city’s famous square of Djemaa El-Fna.

The tour costs £575 p/p (land only) including scheduled flights, transfers, gite d’etape, camping and hotel accommodation, most meals and expert guiding. Flights are not included.

Click here to see more Moroccan walking holidays.

QUEBEC'S WINTER WONDERLAND ADVENTURE

Enjoy a multi-activity holiday packed full with snowshoeing, husky sledding, skiing and snowmobiling amongst Quebec’s beautiful Charlevoix region, covered under a blanket of glittering - virtually guaranteed – snow! It may be cold but the activities will keep you warm! Walks Worldwide’s 9-day, guided Quebec Winter Wonderland tour departs London 17th January 2009.

Quebec is an exceptional land in North America, its distinctive varied geography, history and culture, forging a unique identity. From Montreal, travel north to Jacques Cartier Park near the Saint Lawrence River in time to meet musher-guides and dogs for a 20km exploration deep in to the Canadian winter forest. After a cosy night in a wood cabin, continue the husky sled ride through forest wilderness before exchanging 'dog power' for 'horse power' on a 100km snowmobile expedition. Next, proceed to the Charlevoix region in the heart of the Canadian Shield, one of the Earth’s oldest geological features, formed by an ancient meteor impact. Here, don snowshoes and head out in to some of the region’s 6,000-square-kilometres of dramatic rolling terrain, fjords, headlands and bays. Later, transfer to the Massif de la Petite-Riviere-Saint-Francois – Quebec’s highest downhill skiing mountain - from the summit, skiers have the impression of falling in the frozen Saint Laurence River! Finally, explore Quebec City (UNESCO World Heritage Site), atop Cap Diamant (don’t get fooled by the sparkles!), soak up the atmosphere and enjoy a warming mug of chocolat chaud in one of the city’s many brasseries. Return to Montreal for homeward flights next day.

The holiday costs £1,830 p/p including flights, baggage transfers, hotel, log cabin and chalet accommodation, most meals, equipment and expert guiding.

Click here to see more Canadian walking holidays.

NEW WALKING TOUR - ARIZONA AND UTAH

Geologists have identified a collection of over 1,000 dinosaur footprints near the North Rim of the Grand Canyon on the Arizona–Utah border - dubbing the site 'a dinosaur dance floor'…T-Rex or Mud? Exchange your dancing shoes for boots ‘made for walking’ and head off along the South Rim into a prehistoric land of dramatic red rock, deep canyons, waterfalls, natural arches and archaeological sites during Walks Worldwide’s NEW 14-day, self-guided Canyons of the Southwest. Explore the Grand Canyon, Escalante River and famous ‘Grand Staircase’, Navajo and Havasupai Indian Reservations, Bryce and Zion NPs and stay in ‘The Most Beautiful Place in America’. Tours depart London Fridays and Tuesdays – NOW!

From Las Vegas, transfer to Peach Springs, Arizona – the tribal headquarters of the Hualapai (meaning ‘People of the Tall Pine’) based south of the Colorado River. Spend the next few days exploring a landscape of rock formations, azure creeks and waterfalls. Next, drive into the heart of the Grand Canyon for hikes amongst cacti, pine and fir along the South Rim Trail, keeping watch for California condor soaring high above expansive vistas. Head south to ‘Americas most beautiful’, the town of Sedona, offering an extensive network of trails leading to high elevations, winding creeks and famous ‘slick rock’ - a natural water slide eroded into a creek bed surrounded by massive red-rock walls. Cross into Utah through the rainbow colours of the Painted Desert and Navajo Nation on the Escalante River. From here, hike into the extraordinary chambers of a ‘slot canyon’, winding through sandstone cuts, and visit the remarkable Grand Staircase National Monument - immense sedimentary rock layers of cliffs and terraces, across the rugged Kaiparowits Plateau. Later, discover Bryce Canyon and the breathtaking ‘Hoodoos’ – tall thin rock spires of up to 40-metres high, and towering cliffs of Zion Canyon before returning to Las Vegas for homeward flights.

The holiday costs from £2,995 p/p including flights, hotel, inn and log cabin accommodation, some meals, car hire, boat trips, guided Algonquin trip, route notes and maps.

Webpage is currently under construction - click here to see other walking holidays in the Americas

WALKING IN SPAIN’S ALPUJARRAS – SAVE 15%

From now until the end of January, Walks Worldwide is offering a special 15% discount on its walking tours in Spain’s stunning Alpujarras region, the last enclave of the Moors before they were eventually banished from the country in the 15th century. Choose from an Alpujarras Circuit offering village to village trekking, or a centre-based Alpujarras Explorer where travellers choose from a menu of day walks. Departures are available daily from either Malaga or Granada.

Alpujarras Circuit: 8-day self-guided walking tour.

Combine lovely day walks exploring the almond orchards, olive groves and traditional white-washed villages high up in the southern Spanish mountains, with a 4-day trek walking from village to village at your own pace. The more ambitious can climb El Chullo (2,612m), one of the region’s highest peaks, or tackle a challenging 11-hour trek to the summit of Mulhacen. Evenings are spent in a handpicked selection of charming family-run hotels and pensions with opportunities to taste locally-grown food and other specialities.
The tour now costs £468 p/p (normally £550 – saving £82) including transfers, accommodation, most meals, maps and route notes. Flights are not included.

Alpujarras Explorer: 8-day self-guided, centre-based walking tour.
Guests are based at the restored Casa las Chimeneas guesthouse in the mountain village of Mairena. Walkers can choose from a menu of suggested day walks varying from leisurely meandering village paths to a wide variety of well-marked routes which head up high into the Sierras, including a bracing trail following the famous GR7 long distance track. Friendly English hosts are on hand to make helpful suggestions and discuss various walking options, plus provide a ‘pick-up’ and ‘drop-off’ service. Optional activities include mountain biking along forest trails, a visit to the wine growing town of Laujar, the last stronghold of the Moors, and a full day’s guided horse riding along the ancient Camino Reales. Car hire is also included on this tour, so guests can venture further afield – a visit to the Alhambra Palace in Granada, a 90-minute drive, is highly recommended.
The tour costs £468 p/p (normally £550 – saving £82) including accommodation, most meals, car hire, maps and route notes. Flights are not included.

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WINTER WILDERNESS ADVENTURE - FINLAND

After a summer of grey skies, floods and cabin-fever, why not get back in touch with the great outdoors and join Walks Worldwide on a guided, 8-day Winter in Finland adventure, full of activities including husky-sledding, ice-fishing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing? Far away from mass tourism, way up north to the 'true Lapland', Finland offers silent forests, unspoilt wilderness and frozen lakes - and of course plenty of fresh air and glistening snow! Book early for Xmas to avoid the inevitable festive airline price increases. The holiday departs London 27th December 2008 and 21st Feb 2009.

On arrival in Helsinki, transfer to the hotel in Kuusamo, in deepest northeast Finland, in time to see possible sightings of the Northern Lights. Next day, don snowsuits, boots and gloves for a husky-sledding lesson followed by a canine-led run into the frozen wilderness! Continue south to the pristine village of Hossa where warm, cosy wooden chalets, each with their own sauna, provide a base for the next 5-nights. The Hossa landscape is superb for skiing and with over 60kms of well-prepared ski tracks, there is no shortage of space to explore and try out the various activities on offer. Go cross country skiing - with no crowded lift queues to contend with, just ‘schuss’ along at your own pace along forest tracks. Later, snowshoe on the frozen shores of Lake Ollori to Hossa Information Centre where an exhibition offers further insight in to the region’s history and wildlife. Take a snowmobile safari to see Finland’s largest pre-historic rock paintings at Julma-Olkky Canyon, dating back 4,000 years, then try ice-fishing for Arctic Char, Perch and Grayling. After a day of adventure amongst the snow, unwind and succumb to the soporific effects of a crackling log fire and local specialities - cloudberry liquor, reindeer meat, hearty soups and freshly caught fish.

The holiday costs £1,650 p/p (December departure) including flights, transfers, full board chalet accommodation, most activities and excursions, specialist clothing and expert guiding.

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NEW TOUR - WALK IN ROMANIA’S LAND OF DRACULA

For those in need of a life-affirming, spooked-up Halloween – or just to escape the onslaught of ‘trick-or-treaters’, delve deep into Transylvania’s land of myth and legend, where wolves, bears, Lynx and vampires (!) still roam amongst some of Europe’s most spectacular wild mountain scenery. Walks Worldwide’s NEW 8-day, guided Transylvania- Walks In The Enchanted Land of Dracula offers a unique opportunity to walk amongst the fabled Carpathian NP and the Bucegi Mountains, visit 'Castle Dracula' and the Fairytale Palace of Peles, trek in the stunning Piatra Craiului NP and enjoy traditional Transylvanian hospitality. Tours depart Bucharest daily – best time to go – 31st October 2008!

From Bram Stoker to Hollywood fantasy, Transylvania conjures up images of impenetrable, hostile mountains, dark, mysterious forests, eerie castles and bloodthirsty vampires. In reality, Transylvania offers the spectacular Carpathian Mountains, swathes of virgin forest host to Bear, Wolf and Lynx, impressive architecture, hospitable people and remains a destination for travellers in search of a relatively undiscovered part of Europe. From Bucharest, transfer by rail to the bohemian, Transylvanian city of Brasov, then by road to the comfortable Pension Elena in Zarnesti, situated on the edge of the stunning Piatra Craiului NP dominated by a 2,000m knife edge ridge rising above the forests below. Visit timeless rural villages where life has changed little over centuries and walk to ‘Dracula’s Castle’ at Bran and the ancient hilltop fortress of Rasnov. Explore Craiului (King’s Rock) ridge and Zarnesti Gorge, an area where much of the film ‘Cold Mountain’ was shot, take a cable car up to the Bucegi plateau for spectacular views across the Carpathians, then search for bear and wolf tracks in the wild Ciucas Mountains. After spectacular guided day walks, return to the pension where hosts Gigi and Elena Popa provide Transylvanian hospitality and home cooking at it’s very best.

The holiday costs from £895 p/p including guesthouse accommodation, most meals, experienced English speaking mountain guide and entrance fees.

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EVEREST TREKKING IN STYLE - NEPAL

On 24th September 1975, Mount Everest’s southwest face was successfully scaled for the first time by British climbers Dougal Haston and Doug Scott. 33-years on and the world’s highest peak remains an ambitious calling for climbers of all levels. Walks Worldwide offers a 13-day Everest in Style guided tour along the trail to Everest Base Camp, climbing as far as Tengboche Monastery (3,867m). Sample all the excitement the route offers whilst staying at lower (and safer) altitudes – without the need for crampons and oxygen tanks! Seasonal daily UK departures are available NOW! (New season begins September 2008 till April 2009).

In Kathmandu, enjoy a sightseeing tour to explore the exotic, temples, palaces and colourful streets of this ancient and chaotic city – capital of South Asia’s newest republic. Next, fly to Lukla, gateway to the Khumbu Valley, and begin trekking with a gentle path to Monjo - a superb introduction to the region, passing traditional Sherpa villages, yaks and dramatic swing-bridges high over glacial torrents below. Bustling teahouses and comfortable well-appointed lodge accommodation offer welcome respite en-route, allowing for well-earned relaxation amongst magnificent scenery. On entering Sagamartha National Park a steep climb brings travellers to Namche Bazaar (3,446m), ‘Sherpa capital’ and main trading centre of the region. Spend a full day acclimatising while visiting the Everest Museum, meeting Tibetan traders and fellow trekkers. A slow climb brings travellers to the high point - the famous Tengboche Monastery (3,867m). This magical spot, surrounded by incredible snowy peaks, offers magnificent views down the valley towards Everest. Experience afternoon prayer with the resident monks before descending to Tashinga for a good night's sleep in another beautiful lodge. Traverse the valley to Khumjung, home of the ‘Yeti skull’, and on to Khunde where Sir Edmund Hillary established a school and medical centre. An unusual route from here leads, zigzagging up through a river gorge, to Thame, one of the prettiest villages in the area and birthplace of Tenzing Sherpa. Reaching Mende, enjoy tea with the nuns before the decent to Monjo and Lukla. Return to Kathmandu for further sightseeing and homeward flights.

The guided expedition costs from £2,250 including flights, private transfers, hotel and deluxe mountain lodge accommodation, most meals, guides, porters and park fees.

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Winter Walking - Loving Libya

Don’t know if we can mention the ‘c’ word at this stage, but for walkers hoping to spend the festive season (still can’t say it!) in warmer climes, Walks Worldwide emphasises the need to book early. Their 12-day Libyan Explorer guided walking holiday offers the exotic and unusual, plus with guaranteed winter sunshine and inspirational desert scenery, it will more than fill the bill. Tour departs London 19th December 08. (If you’re quick there are limited places on the 15th October departure too).

Towering sand dunes, shimmering palm-fringed lakes, volcanic mountains, prehistoric rock art, remarkable Roman remains and a long and fertile Mediterranean coastline are just fragments of what makes Libya such an inspiring destination. In Tripoli the welcome is warm, with smiling faces all around and streets lined with images of a triumphant (and sometimes smiling) Colonel Gaddaffi. Explore the city’s ancient medina, as charming as the one in Marrakech but without the usual hassles, allowing travellers to browse in peace. One of the highlights of Walks Worldwide’s tour is the remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jebel Acacus, in the south-west of the country. Comparable to Jordan’s stunning Wadi Rum, its Saharan landscapes, inhabited by the nomadic Tuareg, reveal sand and rock towers, many examples of rarely-seen rock carvings and paintings, and desert wildlife. Walks Worldwide spend five nights here trekking amongst the dramatic Acacus rock formations and sand dunes, stopping to camp in a different location each night. Other highlights include visits to the Roman cities of Sabaratha, boasting one of the finest theatres in antiquity, and magnificent Leptis Magna, without doubt the best Roman ruins outside of Italy. Here, explore the well-preserved colonnaded streets, baths, arches and amphitheatre of Africa’s greatest Roman cities.

The tour costs £1,515 p/p (December departure) and £1,395 p/p (October departure) including scheduled flights, transfers, hotel and camping accommodation, most meals and expert guiding.

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