ATG Footloose 2020 by ATG Oxford

I N D E P E N D E N T

F O O T L O O S E

PHOTO: AMELIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;WHINNEY

ATG OXFORD

Choosing a trip SCOTLAND

Scottish Borders Landscapes rich in history and folklore; winding rivers, heatherclad hills.

FRANCE

Classic Alsace Picturesque villages, vineyards, pastures and forested hills.

Classic Dordogne Castles, prehistoric cave paintings, hills with views.

Lot & Dordogne Valley Gorges and causses, Rocamadour, forest, open hills and valley views.

Provence: Vaucluse and the Luberon Small limestone ‘mountains’, historic villages.

I TA LY

Barolo & the Langhe Hills Forest, olive groves and vineyards, with views to the Alps. Alba and white truffles.

Riviera & Portofino Ancient paths, small farms, forest views and breathe the atmosphere! Cinque Terre Famously picturesque coastal villages, terraced vineyards.

Freewheeling (cycling) itinerary also available

Montefeltro & Urbino Crag-top San Leo to Urbino, picturesque hills and villages.

Roman Roads to Orvieto Tracks, once Roman roads, easy walking, historic towns, Lake Bolsena.

Southern Lakes 3 crater lakes, UNESCO biospheres, historic towns, crag-top Orvieto.

Amalfi Coast Famous and popular. Villa gardens, historic towns, ancient hill paths.

Gargano Peninsula Pilgrim and coastal paths, scrub, forest, sea views, Monte Sant’ Angelo.

High Gargano Pilgrim and coastal paths, aromatic scrub, high ancient forest, many birds, spectacular views.

Sicily: Centre to Sea Madonie Mountains, traditional villages and hospitality. Great views.

VIA FRANCIGENA

225 miles of the medieval ‘main Road to Rome’…in 3 stages

Tuscan Hills San Gimignano, Siena and vineyards, olive groves and rolling hills.

Tuscany & Siena Archetypal Tuscany, medieval hill towns, cypress trees, olive groves, vineyards, Siena and Art.

Ancient Volcanic Landscapes High forests, low ridges, Lake Bolsena, Roman roads.

Siena to Florence Vineyards, forested hills, medieval castles and villages, great wines, great Art!

Approach to Rome Forested Monti Cimini, Lake Vico, historic sites and low hills.

Unknown Tuscany & Orvieto Crag-top towns, 2,500-year-old Etruscan ‘lanes’, Lake Bolsena and Orvieto. Southern Tuscany Open hills, great abbeys, medieval and Renaissance towns, great wines. Unknown Umbria & Spoleto High pastures, forested hills, gorges, medieval towns and villages.

S PA I N

Alto Teruel High open hills, crag-top villages, once the refuge of El Cid.

Hills of Girona Limestone sierra, ancient forested volcanoes, Romanesque churches.

P O RT U G A L

Umbria & Assisi Sagrantino vineyards, olive groves, high pastures and famous frescoes.

Paths of Peneda Outstanding granite landscape, ancient paths, megalithic sites.

High Paths to Assisi Hills with views, olive groves, pastures, stone villages and Assisi!

Sintra & the Portuguese Coast Dramatic Atlantic beaches, vineyards, forest and historic Sintra.

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Making it happen... n ATG Oxford Footloose offers independent travellers original ‘journeys on foot’ through some of the most beautiful and interesting areas of Europe.

PHOTO: GEOFF HACKING PHOTO: KATE WHINNEY

variety of walking, for the quality of hotels and restaurants and for the abundance of outstanding interests along the route.

n Each route is managed by an ATG-trained Route Manager resident in the area, who will look after all your arrangements, transport your luggage to await you in your room at the next hotel and ensure the success of your trip.

PHOTO: JENNY MACDONALD

PHOTO: MATTEO PRENCIPE

PHOTO: DEIDRE DU PREEZ

n Routes are selected for the quality and

•

Do you have to walk all the way? No! You can walk as much or as little as you like – or not at all – taking a ride with the Route Manager and your luggage to the next hotel!

•

What about different walking abilities? On most days there is a choice of routes with easy and more challenging options, as well as wet weather routes.

•

How will you find your way? The ATG Route Books with easy to follow instructions, marked maps and GPS waypoints guide you from place to place and include comprehensive information specific to the area and the route itself.

•

Will it be too hot? The Route Manager is always available, aware of local conditions, and there to provide solutions to ensure your enjoyment, whatever the weather!

n So, with all the practicalities taken care of, you will be left free to enjoy the best of every area … at your own pace and in your own time. See pages 4-10 for further information.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

How will you find your way?

You won’t get lost, but if you do... simply phone the Route Manager.

PHOTO: JIM SCOTT

The ATG Route Book is the key to the success of a Footloose holiday. With it you will have an excellent holiday. Without it you will be – literally – lost!

Easy-to-follow instructions and maps

The book anticipates your needs… The ATG Route Book for your chosen area has easy-to-follow instructions, maps, plans and other information that will guide you to discover the best that the area has to offer.

• Walking route with measurements (measured with a surveyor’s wheel)

• Marked maps of the route (facing the instructions) and GPS co-ordinates for those who wish to use satellite navigation

• Town plans marked with walking routes and ATG hotels • Historical notes and notes on geology, flora and fauna, regional cuisine, etc.

• Places of interest (monuments and sights) with notes and opening/closing times

• Restaurants, etc., with notes and price guides • Shops to buy picnic lunches, etc. – includes a PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER WHINNEY

substantial shopping guide

• Other information – locations and opening times for banks, post offices, pharmacies, etc.

• Route Books are kept continually updated, and the Discover the best that the area has to offer....

Route Manager will advise you of any very recent changes when you meet at the start of your trip.

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

ATG Route Managers What about the practicalities en route? On each Footloose route there is an ATG Route Manager, who is there to take care of all the practicalities and ensure the success of your trip. Route Managers have all been ATGtrained, speak English and the language of the country fluently, and live in the local area.

What will your Route Manager do?

‘You will be welcomed...’ Monika Tyburska Route Manager

• Welcome you at your first hotel, usually between 9.00–9.30, the morning after your

arrival. (If you would like to meet the Route Manager at a different time please contact the office prior to departure.)

• Check through your chosen itinerary with you, and confirm all your arrangements • Provide you with information about events in the area, such as festivals or exhibitions • Make reservations for you at recommended restaurants en route, if required • Advise you on local transport services, as required • Answer any questions you may have • Transport your luggage on the route • Provide you with their mobile number should you require any assistance (24/7) • Contact you at the end of your trip for any feedback you may have

PHOTO: STEPHEN SUTTON

• Do everything possible to ensure that you derive maximum enjoyment from your holiday

'...ensures that you derive maximum enjoyment from your holiday.'

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

What sort of Hotels? All the hotels we use on Footloose routes are conveniently situated along the route... On most routes you can choose Standard or Superior accommodation Superior accommodation includes upgraded hotels or upgraded rooms where available. The type of room booked varies according to the hotels’ room classifications. Further upgrades may be available at an additional cost – please enquire on booking. Where there is no Superior or upgrade option available, all accommodation in this location is at the same hotel, in the same standard of room. Single travellers are accommodated in double rooms for single occupancy (DFS) for a supplemental charge.

On the trip pages the Standard and Superior/up-grade options are indicated as:

• (std): Hotel used for Standard itinerary

• (sup): Hotel used for Superior/ up-grade itinerary

• (std & sup rooms): The same hotel

is used for both itineraries; however room types differ.

• If there is no ‘std/sup’ indication, 4* Palazzo Seneca, Norcia: Unknown Umbria & Spoleto, Nights 1 + 2

The Route Manager visits the hotels regularly.

LES EyzIES-DE-Tayac Moulin de la Beune

HHH

Converted mill with lovely garden and excellent restaurant

NIGHTS 2 & 3

Provence: Vaucluse & the Luberon

GORDES Les Bories

HHHHH Wonderful views, 2 pools, excellent restaurant

NIGHT 3

Montefeltro & Urbino OUTSIDE FRONTINO Locanda le Querce Country House B&B Converted farmhouse in tranquil setting with pool

Siena to Florence NIGHT 2

NIGHTS 6 & 7

Classic Dordogne

all accommodation in this location is at the same hotel, in the same standard of room.

DIEVOLE Dievole Wine Resort

HHHH

Villa in working wine estate with swimming pool

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

What sort of Food & Wine? On Footloose, again, you have a choice...

PHOTO: REBECCA COKER

The ATG Route Book and our ‘Sustainable Shopping Guides’ are filled with information about markets and shops in which to buy your lunch. From seasonal fruits, local cheeses, cured hams and freshly baked breads, you are limited only by what you can carry in your pack!

PHOTO: MICHELA THOMANN

Lunch

Packed lunch…

…often with a view!

Dinner In some locations, usually where there is no other restaurant within walking distance, dinner at the hotel's restaurant is included. Some restaurants are recommended because they have provided meals that have been regularly enjoyed by ATG clients; other restaurants are renowned internationally (e.g., within the Guide Michelin).

The Route Manager will book recommended restaurants.

Restaurant Bookings Your Route Manager will be delighted to book restaurants for you if required, ensuring the places you eat at are... • Your first choice

Wine

• The highest standard • The best value ...and you are not disappointed by finding the restaurant full.

Several of the routes pass through well-known wineproducing regions, including the famous Chianti, Brunello, Barolo and Alsace hills, with opportunities for wine tasting along the route.

PHOTO: KATE WHINNEY

If you are particularly interested in wine you may like to consider... • Classic Alsace • Provence • Sintra & Portuguese Coast • Barolo & Langhe Hills • Tuscan Hills • Tuscany & Siena • Siena to Florence • Southern Tuscany • Ancient Volcanic Landscapes • Unknown Tuscany • Roman Roads to Orvieto • Southern Lakes • Umbria & Assisi • High Paths to Assisi

Renowned wine regions

Restaurants best suited to your taste and budget

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

WHY – Journeys on Foot? When Man first walked out of Africa, or Palaeolithic nomads followed the great herds’ seasonal migrations, ‘Journeys on Foot’ defined the practical scope of ‘the known world’, and the scale by which it was measured. Later, as routes evolved, camaraderie amongst travellers ensured a free flow of information and ‘reviews’ of the route ahead – a dynamic process, resulting in a variety of alternative route options, and a wonderfully rich and diverse legacy for us to rediscover and enjoy. Following in the footsteps of our ancestors, ‘walking through our own distant history’, enables us to ‘touch base’ with origins of our heritage and culture.

Timeless Journeys on Foot

Routes to Assisi St Francis of Assisi was a tireless traveller – on foot. Apart from his journeys around Italy, to Rome and hermitages and communities in the Apennines, he walked down to Siponto, in the Gargano (and back – 976km/606 miles); and also walked to Santiago de Compostela (and back – 4,350km/ 2,703 miles). Many of the paths we follow were almost certainly walked by St Francis – perhaps the most evocative being from the Madonna della Spella, a hermitage often used by St Francis, set high in the flower-filled pastures of Monte Subasio, from where an ancient path leads down through woods and scrub, offering fine views, to Assisi.

Cinque Terre Whilst most visitors walk the, understandably famous but often absurdly crowded, coastal path, inland – along the ridge of the hills overlooking the sea – is one of the oldest routes in Europe, dating back 20,000 years. This high route (c700m/2,296ft) is accessed by small, ancient, well-graded paths through forest and scrub; and offers inspiring views, and opportunities to descend via footpaths, used for millennia, and also pilgrim routes, to any of the picturesque coastal villages. The Route Book contains the best paths of the 'Five Lands'.

Etruscan, cliff-top Sorano

Unknown Tuscany & Orvieto In the extreme south of Tuscany, is possibly the most unique of all Footloose routes. Here we find ancient, crag-top towns set in gorges, accessed by narrow serpentine ‘lanes’ excavated into the volcanic tufa rock, by the Etruscans, over 2,500 years ago. Imagine the amazement when, 30 years ago, ATG MD Christopher Whinney, searching for a route between ancient crag-top towns, unexpectedly happened upon these ‘via cava’, then partially blocked by debris of fallen branches ...beneath which the original drainage channels and stepped animal paths had survived the millennia (all cleared today). But there is much more – a small village with a cathedral, an area of ancient cave dwellings, a (private) boat trip across Lake Bolsena, Etruscan temples, sites of famous miracles...and finally, across a valley, serene in afternoon light, the crag-top city of Orvieto, dominated by its great cathedral. 8

Fine views and wonderful walking in the Peneda National Park

Paths of Peneda The fine granite paths of the Serra da Peneda, in northern Portugal, originate from Neolithic times when this remote area was a centre of habitation, evidence of which can be seen in its fine megalithic monuments and many early sites. Later, during the Roman occupation of the Iberian Peninsula, the routes were used as a short cut from Braga to provinces in north west Spain. The paths remained in use between villages, and following them today, through this splendid granite landscape – the ‘largest wilderness area in Europe’ – is a walking experience to savour.

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Via Francigena ATG has researched many ancient routes and found paths of the Via Francigena to be amongst the most rewarding. Originating from the late 5th century AD the Via Francigena offered a secure route from Northern Europe, through territories occupied by the Franks.... to Rome. Its combination of prehistoric routes, those of successive ages including Roman Roads; its popularity (20,000 people a day), consequent wealth, and the destination of Rome itself – ‘the place to which more people have walked than any other in the Western Civilisation’ ... provide the Via Francigena with a uniquely rich legacy: excellent paths, fine medieval towns, and buildings containing outstanding works of art .... And seven related trips to savour in the ATG Footloose programme!

Southern Tuscany Following routes of the ancient Via Francigena across the open rolling medieval sheep pastures of the crete – to the great abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, with its fabulous frescoed cloister; medieval Buonconvento and high Montalcino surrounded by famous Brunello vineyards; the exquisite Romanesque abbey church of Sant’Antimo, built of alabaster and onyx; Roman baths at Bagno Vignoni and the tiny Renaissance ‘city’ of Pienza.

ATG was fortunate to purchase a derelict Augustinian canonry, Pieve a Castello, on the Via Francigena between San Gimignano and Siena, and restore it over a 20-year period as a Sustainable Development project – so that it again offers accommodation to travellers. The wide expanse of Lake Bolsena

Southern Lakes This route follows the Via Francigena north past three ancient crater lakes, all in UNESCO biospheres, but each one very different. The route starts on Lake Bracciano, north of Rome, visits Sutri with its Roman amphitheatre hewn from volcanic rock, and famous rock pilgrim church; then between the forested slopes of Lake Vico and wide expanse of Lake Bolsena are ancient towns, steeped in history, Viterbo and Montefiascone; and near the route villas with two of Italy’s finest Renaissance gardens. Roman Roads to Orvieto... offers the ‘second half’ of this route from Viterbo, with relatively easy walking and more time to enjoy the places en route.

225 Miles to Rome Archetypal Tuscan hilltop town: San Gimignano

Tuscany & Siena The Via Francigena from San Gimignano to Siena takes you through archetypal Tuscany of iconic fortified hill towns and villages, churches with frescoes by Sienese Masters, vineyards and olive groves, tracks lined with cypress trees – to Siena, the best-preserved, great medieval city in Europe.

By linking stretches of the above routes you can walk a continuous 225 miles of the Via Francigena through central Italy – to Rome: Tuscan Hills from San Gimignano via Siena to Montalcino; then leave the limestone hills, vineyards and olive groves, for the high beech forests of Monte Amiata and Ancient Volcanic Landscapes, that continue past crater lakes and historic towns and villages until the Approach to Rome.

+ (44) 01865 315 678: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

Frequently Asked Questions What sort of people regularly take Footloose trips? People of all ages: solo travellers, couples, families and groups of friends – who enjoy genuine travel experiences (beyond sights, cities and resorts), and find the high quality of supporting service and information provides the flexibility and freedom to simply relax and enjoy.

What is the environmental impact? Minimal. Walking is the most environmentally friendly way to travel.

What about bringing children? Footloose can be an excellent family holiday – a great introduction to real travel – shrinking the generation gap! Most children over 10 can manage the walking, love the adventure and enjoy being entrusted with the Route Book to ‘lead the way’! The Route Manager is always there to provide support as required… Comment: ‘Every little town and village had such amazing ice creams!’ (Italy).

Getting there? Information on travel options and some approximate local prices are provided, together with subsequent updates after booking.

Will you get lost? No! The Route Book provides clear checked instructions, marked maps and GPS waypoints…. But if you have any problems call the Route Manager! They will have walked and rewalked the route many times!

Are the walks graded according to difficulty? Yes. Whilst you can walk as much or as little as you like, and most walks will be enjoyed by ‘moderate walkers’ – there are also options of easier and more challenging routes.

Should we go for 5 or 8 days? People often take a 4-night/5-day option as a ‘long weekend break’ or as an ‘episode’ in a longer holiday. The shorter trips offer ‘core product’ – walking! The 8-day trips allow the leisure to explore, relax and enjoy the area and its outstanding features – at your own pace and in your own time. By linking adjoining routes you can walk, continuously, for 200 miles or more…. Comment: ‘Why didn’t you tell us the area was so totally wonderful? We were desperate to stay longer….’ What about lunches and dinners? There are suggestions in the Route Book about places to buy ingredients for picnic lunches, as well as restaurant recommendations and information about local cuisine, specialities and wines. There is usually a choice of places to eat – fine dining or pizza (!); and in more remote locations – good menu choice. The Route Manager will be pleased to make restaurant dinner reservations for you. What about dietary restrictions? No problem. Discuss these when you meet the Route Manager at the start of your trip. What about carrying water? Fluid intake at breakfast, at bars or ‘water stops’ on the route and when you arrive at your destination, may provide much of your body’s fluid requirements – approximately ‘8 cups’ (2 cups=1pint=500ml).

Most people carry at least a 0.7 litre water bottle. In very hot/humid weather extra water is recommended, together with effervescent electrolyte tablets to replace essential salts.

Is there good GPS and mobile phone reception on the routes? Normally – yes – but as everywhere, subject to service provider and satellite orientation! The Route Manager can advise you …

Grades Trips are allocated Grades 2 – 4 according to terrain and length of walk. The Fitness Quiz (see website) may help you determine which Grade of trip is right for you. Grades '+’: A grade followed by a ‘+’ sign indicates that it is a slightly higher grade than – say 2, but not as tough as 3. Grades 'range': Grades indicated as – say 2-3 – mean predominantly Grade 2 walks, with the option of Grade 3 walks on one or more days. In the Route Books the easier/tougher options are clearly identified. In addition you always have the option to ‘walk as much or as little as you like’. • Grade 2: Walking along well-established paths and tracks. Occasional loose (gravel) surfaces, and open meadows. Ascents/descents up to 1 hour (Fitness Quiz score 20+) • Grade 3: Walking along a variety of paths, some stony in places, with ascents/descents of 1 to 2 hours (Fitness Quiz score 30+) • Grade 4: Walking along a variety of paths and surfaces, occasionally challenging, with ascents/ descents of 2-3 hours (Fitness Quiz score 40+)

How do I find out more or book a trip? Online: www.atg-oxford.com Phone: +44 (0) 1865 315 678 Email: trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Scottish Borders

Scotland Edinburgh

Day 1 • Arrive in Kelso Arrive in the market town of Kelso, with its impressive abbey and nearby Floors Castle. Kelso sits at the confluence of the Tweed and Teviot Rivers. HHH Cross Keys Hotel Day 2 • Kelso to Jedburgh (Day 1 – Arrive Jedburgh)* Walk southwest across the original stone bridge over the River Tweed, out of town onto the banks of the River Teviot, and along former railway tracks to an uphill stretch of Dere Street, before descending into Jedburgh. An easy walk between two historic Borders Abbey towns (13.4 miles, 6.5 hrs). HHHH Allerton House Day 3 • Jedburgh to Denholm After an exploration of the abbey and Mary Queen of Scots’ House, climb up steadily over farm and woodland tracks leading down past the hamlet of Bedrule and on to Denholm, with fine views across the surrounding hillsides (8.1 miles, 4 hrs). HHHHH Auld Cross Keys Inn

Galashiels

Kelso Melrose Dryburgh

Selkirk Denholm 0

Jedburgh

10 miles

..... 5-day route ˚F ˚C 95 35 86 30

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

77 25

300

68 20

250

58 15

200

50 10

150

100 mm 150 100 50 0

-5

Route open: April-September Airport to ﬁrst hotel: u Edinburgh (51 miles) Train/bus: 2.5 hrs - ~£20 Taxi: 1.25 hrs - ~£95

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Day 4 • Denholm to Dryburgh (Day 2 – Jedburgh to Dryburgh) After a short transfer by road, head north, following a stretch of Dere Street – the Roman Road between York and Scotland, along farm tracks and winding Tweed riverside paths to Dryburgh. Wonderful views (10.1 miles, 6 hrs). HHHH Dryburgh Abbey Hotel Day 5 (3) • Dryburgh to Melrose Walk up to the viewpoint, beloved of Sir Walter Scott, before descending to the Victorian viaduct at Leaderfoot, where three bridges converge. Then walk up to the viewpoints over the former Roman settlement at Trimontium, before following paths to the foot of the Eildon Hills. Walk around the northern flanks of the hills and down to Melrose, with its magnificent abbey (7.5 miles, 4 hrs). HHH Townhouse Hotel Day 6 (4) • Melrose to Selkirk Take a riverside walk before visiting Sir Walter Scott’s baronial mansion at Abbotsford. A steady long climb over paths and farm tracks and a section of ancient drove road lead down into Selkirk, where the courthouse used by Sir Walter Scott can be found near the town square (11.6 miles, 6 hrs). HHHH Philipburn Country House Day 7 • Selkirk to Galashiels A steady, steeper climb up through the Philiphaugh Estate leads to the Three Brethren cairns, with outstanding views over the surrounding countryside. The route descends to Yair Bridge, then rises again to the hills above Galashiels, leading around the perimeter of the town with views across the valley (10 miles, 5 hrs). HHH Kingsknowes Hotel Day 8 (5) • Departure day *Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English. Route Book: 117 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate (Grade 3). See p.10. Terrain: Riverside and hillside paths; farm, forest, and woodland tracks. Hill climbs range from 150m to 450m. Kelso Feet 1500 1000 500 0

Miles 0

Jedburgh

Dryburgh Melrose

Selkirk

Galashiels

Denholm Harestanes

Day 2 5

Day 4

Day 3 10

Day 6

Day 5 30

Metres 457 305 152.5 0

Day 7 50

For route dates, prices and booking conditions see 'ATG 2020 News' or website

Classic Alsace

France

Day 1 (1)* • Arrive in Obernai – picturesque small town with delightful main square. Option to pre-extend for a circular walk through the wooded hills of the Vosges, with panoramic views across the Rhine Valley (6.3 or 15.5 miles, 3 or 8 hrs). HHHH Le Colombier (std) HHHH A La Cour d’Alsace (sup) Day 2 • Barr to Itterswiller (2) Barr to Scherwiller After a short train ride to Barr, a centre of wine-making, quiet lanes lead through vineyards via the picturesque village of Mittelbergheim with its Renaissance houses; then continue up into the hills to two dramatically situated ruined châteaux. Continue via the flower-filled village of Andlau, to Itterswiller, set amongst vineyards in a small valley (5.2 or 8.5 miles, 2.5 or 4 hrs). HHH Hôtel Arnold (std & sup 8-day only)

Obernai Ottrott Mont Sainte-Odile Barr Itterswiller

10 miles

Le Bonhomme

Lapoutroie

Scherwiller St. Hippolyte Ribeauvillé Riquewihr Kaysersberg

Orbey

Colmar

Turckheim

..... 5-day route ˚F ˚C 95 35 86 30

Day 3 • Itterswiller to Scherwiller Paths through colourful villages, vineyards and across forested hills of the Vosges lead to the picturesque, walled village of Dambach-la-Ville, before reaching the village of Scherwiller (6.3 or 10.3 miles, 3.5 or 5.5 hrs). HHH Auberge Ramstein (std & sup rooms)

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

77 25

300

68 20

250

58 15

200

50 10

150

100 mm 150 100 50 0

-5

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Route open: April-Oct Airport to ﬁrst hotel: u Basel-Mulhouse (66 miles) Train/bus: 2.5 hrs - ~€22 Taxi: 1 hr - ~€190 Train from London u St Pancras to Obernai via Paris & Strasbourg 6.5 hrs - from £85

Day 4 (3) • Scherwiller to St Hippolyte Paths through woods and vineyards lead along the edge of the hills, or via the Castle of Koenigsbourg, to the delightful village of St Hippolyte (5.6 or 10.2 miles, 3 or 5 hrs). HHH Hostellerie Munsch (std) HHHH Hôtel Le Parc (sup) Day 5 (4) • St Hippolyte to Riquewihr Paths through forested hills lead to Ribeauvillé, famous for its Traminer and Riesling wines. Continue to the picturesque village of Riquewihr, with its perfectly preserved streets of ancient houses (9.4 or 12.8 miles, 5 or 6.5 hrs). HH La Couronne (std) HHH Le Schoenenbourg (sup)

PHOTO: MYA PADGET

Day 6 • Riquewihr to Lapoutroie Quiet lanes lead up through woods to a ridge, before descending to Lapoutroie. A longer walk continues around the edge of a wide ‘bowl’ – the Orbey Valley, noted for its scenery, then descends to the village of Le Bonhomme before continuing to Lapoutroie (12.3 or 18.1 miles, 6.5 or 9.5 hrs). HHH Le Faudé (std & sup) Day 7 • Lapoutroie to Kaysersberg A range of options – all very scenic! – lead up, via mountain pastures, woods and low hills, before descending via vineyards to the delightful town of Kaysersberg (6.8, 10 or 18.8 miles, 3.5, 5 or 9 hrs). HHH Hôtel les Remparts (std) HHHHH Le Chambard (sup)

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, French, Spanish and conversational Japanese. Route Book: 153 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate to challenging (Grade 2+ – 4). See p.10.

Day 8 (5) • Departure day Or, extend for plenty of further walking options around Kaysersberg. *Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary

Long route

Feet 3000 2000 1000 0

Barr

Miles 0

Terrain: Tracks through vineyards, forests, high hills and meadows. Quiet lanes through picturesque villages and pilgrimage routes.

Scherwiller

Itterswiller

Day 2 5

Day 3 10

St Hippolyte

Day 4 20

Riquewihr

Day 5 30

Lapoutroie

Kaysersberg

Day 6 40

Metres 915 610 305 0

Day 7 55

For route dates, prices and booking conditions see 'ATG 2020 News' or website

Classic Dordogne Day 1 • Arrive in Sarlat-la-Canéda Explore this attractive market town, in the heart of Périgord Noir, with its narrow medieval and Renaissance streets. HHH Hôtel Le Renoir (std) HHHH Plaza Madeleine (sup)

France 0

15 miles

Montignac

Les Eyzies-de-Tayac Meyrals Sarlat-la-Canéda

Day 2 • Sarlat-la-Canéda to Carsac-Aillac Walk from the valley up into low hills, before descending to your hotel (std: 9.7 miles / sup: 11.3 miles). HHH Le Relais du Touron (std) HHHH Hôtel La Villa Romaine (sup)

Beynac Carsac Domme

..... 5-day route ˚F ˚C 104 40

Day 3 • Carsac-Aillac to Domme (Day 1 – Arrive Domme)* Easy paths follow the river with an optional extension through walnut orchards for views of the Château de Montfort. Then forest paths lead to a wonderful cliff-top viewpoint and past a Gallo-Roman rock chapel, before ascending to cliff-top Domme (std: 10.4 miles, 5 hrs / sup: 9.7 miles, 5 hrs). Alternative route via woods and farmland tracks up to a plateau with wide views, and on to Domme (std: 8.5 miles, 4.5 hrs / sup: 7.9 miles, 4 hrs). HHH L’Esplanade

95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: March-July; Sept-Oct Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Bergerac (46 miles) Taxi & train: 1.5 hrs - ~€20 Taxi: 1.25 hrs - ~€140 u

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Brive-la-Vallée (25 miles) Taxi: 50 mins - ~€120

Day 4 (2) • Domme to Beynac After descending to the valley, paths lead along the river to the impressive castle of Castelnaud (superb view from terrace). Continue up to the delightful gardens of Marqueyssac, then on to the small village of Vézac, and crag-top castle of Beynac (std: 7.8 or 9.4 miles / sup: 9.1 or 11 miles). NB: Canoeing options on this day. HH Hôtel du Château (std) HHH Château de Monrecour (sup)

PHOTO: EDWARD GENOCCHIO

Day 5 (3) • Beynac to Meyrals A choice of routes lead along the river, then across low hills to the village of Meyrals in a quiet valley. Optional routes via St Cyprien (fine church) or via Château des Milandes, once home of Josephine Baker (std: 10.5, 13.6 or 16.4 miles / sup: 9.2, 12.3 or 17.8 miles). HHH La Ferme Lamy (std & sup rooms) Day 6 (4) • Meyrals to Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil Paths lead up into hills, then down to the Beune Valley (optional excursion to prehistoric settlement site of Cap Blanc), before continuing through the picturesque village of Sireuil, and then on to Les Eyzies (std: 8.1 or 10 miles / sup: 8.7 or 10.6 miles). HHH Moulin de la Beune (std) HHH Le Centenaire (sup)

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, French and Swiss German. Route Book: 131 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information.

Day 7 • Free day in Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil Explore Les Eyzies and its prehistoric museums. Optional walks to visit prehistoric sites (4–17.7 miles). HHH Moulin de la Beune (std) HHH Le Centenaire (sup) Day 8 (5) • Departure day Or – optional extension to Montignac (11.5 or 19.6 miles, 6 or 10 hrs). *Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary

Feet Sarlat 2000 1000 0 Miles 0

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Walking: Easy to moderate (Grade 2 – 2+). See p.10. Terrain: Easy walking paths, with quiet lanes along river valleys and farm tracks over low hills. Domme

Carsac

Day 2 5

Day 3 10

Beynac

Day 4 20

+ (44) 01865 315 678

Day 5 25

Les Eyzies Les Eyzies Metres

Meyrals

Day 6 35

Day 7

610 305 0

trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com 13

Lot & Dordogne Valley Day 1 • Arrive in Gramat A typical small town, set on a vast limestone plateau – the Causse de Gramat, the largest in Quercy. HH Relais des Gourmands Day 2 • Gramat to Rocamadour From the small market town of Gramat, walk along grassy lanes to the ruins of the Moulin du Saut, then along the Gorge d’Alzou, with narrow paths and stream crossings to Rocamadour, with its picturesque cliff-side stone buildings (6.7, 7.4 or 8.8 miles, 3.5–4.5 hrs). HH Le Terminus des Pèlerins (std) HHH Le Beau Site (sup) Day 3 (std) • Free day in Rocamadour A centre for pilgrimage in the Middle Ages, retaining important ecclesiastical buildings – including the crypt of St Amadour. HH Le Terminus des Pèlerins (std)

France

5 10 15 miles

Carennac Loubressac

Meyronne Lacave Rocamadour

˚F ˚C 104 40

Gramat

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

St Céré

Gouffre de Padirac

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Day 3 (sup) • Rocamadour to Lacave Follow the gorge to Lacave with its spectacular, extensive cave system (8.4 miles, 4 hrs). HHH Le Pont de l’Ouysse (sup)

Route open: March-July; Sept-Oct Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Brive-la-Vallée (26 miles) Taxi: 45 mins - ~€90 u Limoges (100 miles) Taxi & train: 3 hrs - ~€40 Taxi: 1.75 hrs - ~€290 u Toulouse (100 miles) Train/bus: 4.5 hrs - ~€40 Taxi: 1.75 hrs - ~€290

Day 4 (std) • Rocamadour to Meyronne Walk across the Causse de Gramat (a limestone plateau), rolling hills and farmland to Meyronne, on the banks of the Dordogne (7.4 or 8.4 miles, 3.5–4 hrs). HHH La Terrasse (std rooms) Day 4 (sup) • Lacave to Meyronne Follow farm tracks up to the village of Mayrinhac, then descend to Meyronne (8.9 or 9.6 miles, 4–4.5 hrs). HHH La Terrasse (sup rooms) Day 5 • Meyronne to Carennac Paths lead through farmland and woods above the river before descending to Carennac, a village of traditional stone houses clustered around a medieval priory on the banks of the Dordogne (14.3 miles, 6.5 hrs). HH Petite Auberge de Carennac Day 6 • Carennac to Loubressac Walk up from the river to Loubressac, a quintessential medieval village with a jumble of pointed tiled roofs, and views of the imposing Château de Castelnau. There is an optional longer route via the Gouffre de Padirac, a 300ft deep chasm, with a boat ride through caves, along an underground river (7.1, 8.7 or 9.8 miles, 3.5–5 hrs). HH Lou Cantou (std) HHH Relais de Castelnau (sup) Day 7 • Loubressac to St Céré Walk along paths overlooking the 'Cirque d’Autoire' – dramatic cliffs of the edge of the causses – to the Château de Montal and St Céré, a bustling medieval market town (7.1, 9.8 or 11.5 miles, 3.5–5.5 hrs). HHH Les Trois Soleils de Montal (std & sup rooms) Day 8 • Departure day

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, French and Swiss German. Route Book: 113 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Easy to moderate (Grade 2 – 3). See p.10. Terrain: Quiet country lanes, gravel tracks, woodland and mule paths, and the occasional steep, rocky path. SHORTER (STANDARD) ROUTE

2000 1000 0

Miles 0

Carennac

Gramat Meyronne Feet Rocamadour Day 2 5

Day 4 10

Day 5 15

St Céré Metres Loubressac

Day 6 25

Day 7 35

For route dates, prices and booking conditions see 'ATG 2020 News' or website

610 305 0

Provence: Vaucluse & the Luberon

France

Day 1 • Arrive in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse Visit the village where the Italian poet Petrarch lived from 1337–1353 and composed 366 poems to ‘Laura’; the small Romanesque church; and the world-famous resurgent spring. HHH Hôtel du Poète (std & sup rooms) Day 2 • Fontaine-de-Vaucluse to Gordes Paths lead up through a dry limestone gorge, onto the plateau of the Vaucluse, through pine woods and stonewalled meadows, before descending to the 12C Cistercian Abbey of Sénanque. Set in a quiet valley amongst lavender fields, the abbey retains all its original 12C buildings. A path then leads up to Gordes (10 miles, 5 hrs). Alternative gentler option (6.2 miles, 3 hrs). HHH Le Jas de Gordes (std) HHHHH Les Bories (sup) Day 3 • Free day in Gordes (Day 1 – Arrive Gordes)* Explore the picturesque village of Gordes with old houses rising in tiers from the valley, and its Renaissance château with very fine chimneypiece. Optional walk to a village of restored bories (stone huts), grouped around a communal bread oven (5.3 miles, 2.5 hrs). HHH Le Jas de Gordes (std) HHHHH Les Bories (sup)

Gordes Roussillon

Fontainede-Vaucluse

Bonnieux

Lourmarin 0

10 miles

..... 5-day route ˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: March-June; Sept-Nov Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Marseille (43 miles) Train/bus: 2 hrs - ~€22 Taxi: 1 hr - ~€145 u

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Avignon (15 miles) Train/bus: 1.5 hrs - ~€10 Taxi: 35 mins - ~€60

Day 4 (2) • Gordes to Roussillon Walk down through the old streets of Gordes and through olive groves, to a valley with fields of wheat, lavender and poppies (!) to Roussillon. Explore the village set high on a rocky outcrop, with its ochre-coloured houses along the picturesque streets (6.9 miles, 3.5 hrs). HHH Le Clos de la Glycine Day 5 (3) • Roussillon to Bonnieux Follow paths and farm tracks down the valley to a Roman bridge, then through meadows and olive groves, up towards the col between the Grand Luberon and Petit Luberon ‘mountains’, and the medieval village of Bonnieux, its houses rising on terraces to its 12C parish church surrounded by cedar trees (8.6 miles, 4.5 hrs). HHHH La Bastide de Capelongue Day 6 (4) • Bonnieux to Lourmarin From the valley walk through woods and high meadows to the ridge of the Grand Luberon, with views across the Vaucluse to Mont Ventoux and across southern Provence to the sea. An optional route then diverts to the panoramic summit of Mourre Nègre, highest point of the Luberon. Descend through maquis scrub to the village of Vaugines (setting for Jean de Florette) before following a wide farm track towards Lourmarin. Explore the village, dominated by its château, set high on a rock bluff (12.9 miles, 7 hrs – or up to 20.2 miles, 10 hrs for diversion). HHHH Mas de Guilles Day 7 (5) • Departure day *Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, French and German. Route Book: 111 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Easy to moderate (Grade 2 – 3). See p.10. Terrain: Paths over hills stony and dry underfoot. In valleys: wood and farmland tracks; open country paths; asphalt lanes. Feet 3000 2000 1000 0

Fontaine-de-Vaucluse Gordes Gordes

Miles 0

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Day 3

Day 2 5

+ (44) 01865 315 678

Roussillon

Day 4 15

Bonnieux

Day 5 25

Lourmarin

Metres 915 610 305 0

Day 6 30

trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com 15

Barolo & the Langhe Hills Day 1 • Arrive in Mondovì Founded in 1198, Mondovì overlooks the Maritime and Ligurian Alps, the Langhe Hills and the fertile plains stretching all the way to Turin. HH Albergo dell’Academia Day 2 • Ceva to Igliano (San Luigi) Travel by train to Ceva (15 mins) and walk up to a ridge affording superb views. Descend via farmland, mixed woods and fields of lavender, before walking up via forest tracks to the site of an important battle during the French Revolutionary Wars led by Napoleon. Then on via a secluded valley before another brief ascent to the small hamlet of San Luigi (11.1 miles, 6.5 hrs). HHHH Le Piemontesine

Italy Turin

10 miles

Asti

Alba

Extension walk

La Morra

Barolo Monforte d’Alba

Serravalle Langhe Bossolasco

Igliano Ceva

..... 5-day route ˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Day 3 • Igliano to Bossolasco (Day 1 – Arrive Bossolasco)* Walk through a remote valley and then up, along forest tracks, to a ridge and the charming medieval village of Murazzano. Explore the town, then follow a ridge via hazelnut groves, fields and mixed woods, enjoying superb views of the Alte Langhe, before reaching the ‘Pearl of Le Langhe’, Bossolasco (11.4 miles, 6.5–7 hrs). HHH Hotel Bellavista

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: April-Nov

350

86 30

Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Turin (70 miles) Train/bus: 2.5 hrs - ~€14 Taxi: 1.25 hrs - ~€180 u

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Milan (138 miles) Train/bus: 4 hrs - ~€30 Taxi: 2.5 hrs - ~€330

Day 4 (2) • Bossolasco to Monforte d’Alba Follow paths across hills, through woodland and meadows, flower-filled in spring and early summer. Emerge amongst vineyards of Nebbiolo, before arriving at the small bustling ‘wine town’ of Monforte d’Alba (10.5 miles, 6 hrs). HHH Grappolo d’Oro (std) HHHH Villa Beccaris (sup) Day 5 • Free day in Monforte d'Alba Optional walk along the crest of the hills behind Monforte affording wide views of the Barolo vineyards, to Castiglione Falletto. Continue on to Serralunga d’Alba, before returning to Monforte (7.3, 8.4 or 9.9 miles, 4.5, 5 or 6 hrs). HHH Grappolo d’Oro (std) HHHH Villa Beccaris (sup) Day 6 (3) • Monforte d’Alba to La Morra A ridge route leads down into a wide ‘bowl’ in the hills – covered with some of the area’s most renowned vineyards – to the small town of Barolo, with its wine museum and renowned enoteca. Continue through vineyards up to La Morra, noted for its fine Baroque churches and palaces (5.5 miles, 3–3.5 hrs). Blueberry Rooms GuestHouse (std) HHHH Corte Gondina (sup) Day 7 (4) • La Morra to Alba Descend through vineyards to picturesque Verduno, then continue along a ridge to Roddi. Follow a path along the River Tanaro, then through fields to medieval Alba, ‘Europe’s white truffle capital’ (9.5 miles, 5–5.5 hrs). HH Albergo San Lorenzo (std) HHH Palazzo Finati (sup) Day 8 (5) • Departure day *Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, Italian, Serbo-Croatian and Bosnian. Route Book: 142 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Ceva

Feet 3000 2000 1000 0

Igliano

Monforte Monforte La Morra

Bossolasco

d’Alba Walking: Moderate (Graded’Alba 3). See p.10.

Alba

Metres 915 610 305 0

Terrain: Gentle, rolling hills following well-made dirt Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 roads; paths through vineyards; farm and woodland 35 50 40 45 Miles tracks. 5 15 20 25 30 0 10 Ceva

Feet 3000 2000 1000 0

Miles 0

Igliano

Day 2 5

Bossolasco

Day 3 10

Monforte d’Alba

Day 4 20

Monforte La Morra d’Alba

Day 5 30

Day 6 40

Alba

Metres 915 610 305 0

Day 7 50

For route dates, prices and booking conditions see 'ATG 2020 News' or website

Riviera & Portofino

Italy

Day 1 (1)* • Arrive in Sestri Levante Trompe l’oeil painted houses smile across the Bay of Silence; a bustling pedestrian street, flanked with shops and fine palazzi, leads up onto the ‘Isola’, Sestri’s pinecovered peninsula. Excellent beaches. HHHH Miramare (std & sup rooms) Day 2 • Free day in Sestri Levante Explore Sestri Levante with its picturesque medieval streets and port, tranquil bay and excellent beaches. Optional circular walk (4 miles, 2.5 hrs) or coastal walk southwards (10.5 miles, 6 hrs). HHHH Miramare (std & sup rooms) Day 3 (2) • Sestri Levante to Chiavari Follow the coastal path with fine views, then cross hills to the 12C basilica of San Salvatore dei Fieschi, before continuing to bustling medieval Chiavari with its fine Botanic Gardens (12.3 miles, 7 hrs). HHHH Monte Rosa

Recco Rapallo Zoagli Camogli Santa Margherita San Fruttuoso Paraggi Chiavari Lavagna Portofino Sestri Levante 0

˚F ˚C 104 40

Moneglia

3 miles

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: March-June; Sept-Oct Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Genoa (37 miles) Train/bus: 1.5 hrs - ~€10 Taxi: 45 mins - ~€130

350

86 30

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Pisa (74 miles) Train/bus: 2.5 hrs - ~€20 Taxi: 1.25 hrs - ~€250

Day 4 (3) • Chiavari to Rapallo Paved paths through olive groves and small farms lead past two fine churches before descending to Rapallo (8.3 miles, 4.5 hrs). Alternative high route through remote, wilder country with spectacular views (9.4 miles, 5.5 hrs). HHHH Tigullio Royal (std & sup rooms)

Day 6 • Free day to explore Portofino Opportunities to explore this famously picturesque resort, where exotic ‘glitterati’ coexist with the local fishing community, and farmers of the terraces and hidden valleys behind the village (3.1 miles, 2.5 hrs). HH Hotel Argentina (std) HHHH Eight Hotel (sup)

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, Italian and conversational Chinese.

Day 7 (5) • Paraggi/Portofino to Camogli Climb past ruined mills to pine-shaded paths with lovely views and down to the 11C monastery of San Fruttuoso. Visit the monastery and swim to view the famous underwater statue Cristo degli Abissi. Ascend through woods and terraces before descending past the church of San Rocco to Camogli (7.6/7.2 miles, 5.5–6 hrs). HHHH Cenobio Dei Dogi (std & sup rooms) Day 8 (6) • Departure day *Days in brackets refer to 6-day itinerary

PHOTO: FRANCIS ORAVETZ

Day 5 (4) • Rapallo to Paraggi/Portofino Optional cable-car ascent to Montallegro, with pilgrim path descent (2.8 miles, 2.5 hrs). Then, from Rapallo, quiet paths and alleys lead around the bay to Santa Margherita Ligure and on to the tiny cove of Paraggi – Standard hotel (4.8 miles, 3 hrs). Continue via a wooded headland to the delightful village of Portofino – Superior hotel (1.1 miles, 30 mins). HH Hotel Argentina (std) HHHH Eight Hotel (sup)

SHORTER ROUTE

Route Book: 131 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate to challenging (Grade 3 – 3+). See p.10. Terrain: Ancient paths through olive groves and woodland, traversing hillsides above coast. A few steep climbs and ascents.

Miles 0

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Rapallo Chiavari Paraggi Camogli Optional Metres Portofino high route 610

Sestri Levante Feet 2000 1000 0

Day 2

Day 3 5

+ (44) 01865 315 678

Day 4 15

Day 5 25

Day 7 30

305 0

trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com 17

Cinque Terre

Italy Levanto Monterosso

Day 1 (1)* • Arrive in Levanto Originally a Roman town, it now has medieval walls, a 13th century castle and elegant Neo-Classical buildings from its days of grandeur as a fashionable bathing resort in the 19th century. HHH Nazionale (std) HHH Villa Margherita (sup)

Vernazza Corniglia Manarola Riomaggiore Portovenere

Day 2 • Free day in Levanto Optional circular walk in the hills, once the domain of the feared Zolaschi, who controlled the ancient ridge-top trade route (6.4 or 8 miles, 3.5 or 5 hrs). Walk on to the coastal village of Bonassola (1 hr). Return by train or on foot. HHH Nazionale (std) HHH Villa Margherita (sup)

0 ˚F ˚C 104 40

PALMARIA Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

Day 3 (2) • Levanto to Monterosso Superb coastal path, through pine woods and scented scrub, with views of the whole Cinque Terre. A stepped path leads down to Monterosso, with medieval centre, castle and Capuchin convent (4.8 or 9.7 miles, 2.5 or 6 hrs). HHH Cinque Terre (std) HHHH Porto Roca (sup)

10 miles

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: April-June; Sept-Oct Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Genoa (57 miles) Train/bus: 2 hrs - ~€15 Taxi: 1.25 hrs - ~€190

350

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Pisa (68 miles) Train/bus: 2 hrs - ~€15 Taxi: 1.25 hrs - ~€190

Day 4 • Free day in the area A steady climb up a cobbled path brings you to a ridge with wonderful views – both inland and seaward, leading to the sanctuary of Madonna di Reggio, from where a fine pilgrim path leads gently down to Vernazza, the former Roman port of 'Vulnetia' (7.9 miles, 5.5 hrs). Return along the coast by train, boat or on foot. HHH Cinque Terre (std) HHHH Porto Roca (sup) Day 5 (3) • Monterosso to Riomaggiore Follow paths along the coast, with views of the famously picturesque villages of the Cinque Terre, and their terraced vineyards. Range of routes (up to 14.3 miles, 8 hrs). HH Villa Argentina Day 6 (4) • Riomaggiore to Portovenere Up through terraced vineyards to the wooded ridge, via the sanctuary church of Montenero, then through pine, chestnut woods and scrub, before emerging to views of the dramatic coastline and descending to Portovenere (8.7 miles, 5.5 hrs). HHH Paradiso (std) HHHHH Grand Hotel Portovenere (sup)

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, Italian and conversational Chinese.

Day 7 • Free day in Portovenere Explore Portovenere or take a boat to Palmaria Island (fine beaches for swimming) (3 miles, 2.5 hrs). HHH Paradiso (std) HHHHH Grand Hotel Portovenere (sup)

Route Book: 127 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Easy to challenging (Grade 2 – 4). See p.10.

Day 8 (5) • Departure day

Terrain: Paths mostly ancient but well-preserved, though steep, narrow and rough in places.

*Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary Levanto

Longer/higher route

Feet 2000 1000 0

Miles 0

Monterosso Vernazza

Day 2 5

Day 4

Day 3 10

Riomaggiore Manarola

Day 5 25

Portovenere Palmaria

Day 6 35

For route dates, prices and booking conditions see 'ATG 2020 News' or website

Day 7 50

Metres 610 305 0

Tuscany & Siena

Italy

Optional pre-extension to start of itinerary: Certaldo to San Gimignano – Strade bianche lined with cypress trees and paths through vineyards, olive groves and woods, lead to San Gimignano (9.7 miles, 5 hrs). HH Il Castello (pre-extension)

Certaldo San Gimignano

optional pre-extension

Colle Val d’Elsa

Monteriggioni Siena

Day 1 (1)* • Arrive in San Gimignano The ‘Medieval Manhattan' is irresistibly charming and perfectly preserved. It houses a fine array of religious and secular frescoes and monuments. HHH Leon Bianco (std & sup rooms)

˚F ˚C 104 40

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

Day 2 • Free day in San Gimignano Opportunities to explore the walled medieval town. Optional circular walk in the countryside around San Gimignano, offering superb views of the town (5.2 miles, 2.5 hrs). HHH Leon Bianco (std & sup rooms)

10 miles

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Day 3 (2) • San Gimignano to Colle Val d’Elsa Walk across low hills with vines, woods, olive groves, and views of an almost unchanged medieval landscape...to the ancient walled town of Colle Val d’Elsa, renowned for its perfectly preserved medieval ‘tunnel’ streets (also noted for its crystal glass and ice creams!) (8.7 miles, 4.5 hrs). HHHH Palazzo San Lorenzo (std & sup rooms)

Route open: March-Nov Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Florence (39 miles) Train/bus: 2 hrs - ~€14-42 (incl. taxi Certaldo-San Gim)

Taxi: 1 hr - ~€120 u Pisa (46 miles) Train/bus: 2 hrs - ~€13-40 (incl. taxi Certaldo-San Gim)

Taxi: 1.25 hrs - ~€130

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Day 4 (3) • Colle Val d’Elsa to Monteriggioni Follow farm tracks and gravel lanes across fertile farmland, with olive groves and vineyards, to the Romanesque abbey of Abbadia Isola, and on to Monteriggioni, a tiny medieval village, with 85 inhabitants, encircled by 13th century walls with 14 watchtowers (11.6 miles, 6 hrs). HHHH Hotel Monteriggioni

PHOTO: DAVID WALSH

Day 5 (4) • Monteriggioni to Siena Through forests, past a castle, open farmland and wooded slopes. Wonderful views on the approach to Siena, the best-preserved great medieval city in Europe (11.8 miles, 6 hrs). HHHH Athena (std) HHHHH Grand Hotel Continental (sup) Day 6 • Free day in Siena Opportunities for exploring the medieval city, with its abundance of outstanding 14th and 15th century art and architecture, from the famous Piazza del Campo, scene of the Palio horse race, to galleries filled with iconic medieval masterpieces, and the great cathedral. There are also many excellent shops, bars and restaurants! Optional Siena city walk (3.5 hrs). HHHH Athena (std) HHHHH Grand Hotel Continental (sup) Day 7 (5) • Departure day *Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English and Italian. Route Book: 106 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate (Grade 2+). See p.10. Terrain: Hilly countryside crossed by small gravel roads, mule tracks, farm and woodland tracks/paths; some asphalt near towns. Certaldo

Feet 2000 1000 0 Miles 0

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

San Gimignano

Day 2

PRE-EXTENSION 5

Colle Val d'Elsa

Day 3 15

+ (44) 01865 315 678

Day 4 25

Siena

Monteriggioni

Metres 610 305 0

Day 5 35

trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com 19

Siena to Florence

Italy 0

Florence

10 miles

Impruneta

Day 1 • Arrive in Siena The best-preserved great medieval city in Europe. Magnificent cathedral, the Piazza del Campo (scene of the Palio horse race), and an abundance of outstanding 14th and 15th century art and architecture. HHHH Athena

Greve Panzano Gaiolein-Chianti

Dievole

Day 2 • Siena to Dievole Follow tracks across hills with stone-walled olive groves, oak forest, and world-renowned Chianti Classico vineyards, to Dievole, set amongst its own vineyards (12.4 miles, 6 hrs). HHHH Dievole Wine Resort (std & sup rooms)

Siena ˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Day 3 • Dievole to Gaiole-in-Chianti Cross a valley to the fortified Romanesque church of San Polo in Rosso, where paths lead to Gaiole-in-Chianti, a centre of Chianti wine production, overlooked by the Castello di Spaltenna and its 11th century Romanesque church (7.9 miles, 4 hrs). B&B L’Eroico (std) HHHHH Castello di Spaltenna (sup)

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: Apr-Oct

350

Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Florence (50 miles) Train/bus: 1.75 hrs - ~€15 Taxi: 1 hr - ~€140 u

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Pisa (74 miles) Train/bus: 2 hrs - ~€14 Taxi: 1.5 hrs - ~€160

Day 4 • Gaiole-in-Chianti to Panzano Farm roads (strade bianche) lead to a ridge, from where a track descends to the valley, continuing past stone farmhouses and vineyards to a second ridge with extensive views, and the characteristic medieval hill town of Panzano (13.2 miles, 6 hrs). HHH Fattoria Valle (std) HHHH Villa Le Barone (sup) Day 5 • Free day in Panzano Short optional walk to Greve-in-Chianti, a busy centre of the wine industry, with some fine medieval buildings and arcaded central piazza (5.1 miles, 2.5 hrs). HHH Fattoria Valle (std) HHHH Villa Le Barone (sup)

PHOTO: KATE WHINNEY

Day 6 • Panzano to Impruneta (via Greve-in-Chianti) Undulating paths and strade bianche with fine views across vine-filled valleys and castles protecting the rich wine estates. A wooded riverside path then leads to the final climb to Impruneta (17.6 miles, 8.5-9 hrs). Option to shorten the walk by getting a lift part way or starting from Greve (12.1 miles, 6 hrs). HHH Hotel Bellavista Day 7 • Impruneta to Florence Tracks and strade bianche lead through farmland to the outskirts of Florence, before minor roads and pathways for the final two miles emerge at a panoramic view of the city and descent to the Ponte Vecchio (10.3 miles, 5–5.5 hrs). ‘Birthplace of the Renaissance’ and with the Uffizi, Pitti galleries, cathedral, churches and museums, Florence is the world’s greatest ‘Art City’. HHH Hotel Silla (std) HHHH Degli Orafi (sup)

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, Italian and Romanian. Route Book: 119 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate to challenging (Grade 3 – 3+). See p.10. Terrain: Paths through vineyards and olive groves; farm and forest paths/tracks; small gravel roads; some asphalt.

Day 8 • Departure day Dievole

Siena Feet 2000 1000 0 Miles 0

Gaiolein-Chianti

Grevein-Chianti Panzano

Impruneta

Florence

Panzano Day 2 5

Day 3 10

Day 4 20

Day 5 30

Day 6 40

Day 7 50

For route dates, prices and booking conditions see 'ATG 2020 News' or website

Metres 610 305 0

Unknown Tuscany & Orvieto

Italy 0

10 15 miles

Acquapendente Orvieto

Sorano

San Quirico

Sovana

Day 1 (1)* • Arrive in Pitigliano Dramatic approach to Pitigliano on foot (1 mile) via 2,500-yearold Etruscan lanes is strongly recommended. Alternatively, this walk can be done as an excursion after arrival (2 miles). Le Camere del Ceccottino GuestHouse (std & sup rooms)

Bolsena

Pitigliano

Day 2 (2) • Pitigliano to Sovana Pitigliano to San Quirico via Sovana Free morning to explore crag-top Pitigliano, its Etruscan houses, medieval fortress and synagogue. Then follow an Etruscan lane to a small plateau, with pastures and vines, to the charming village of Sovana (4.9 miles, 2.5–3 hrs). HHHH Sovana Hotel & Resort (std & sup rooms, 8-day itin)

˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Day 3 • Free day in Sovana Visit Sovana’s fine Romanesque churches. Walk to see the outstanding Etruscan necropolis, including the Tomba della Sirena, restored by the ATG Trust (2.5 miles). HHHH Sovana Hotel & Resort (std & sup rooms)

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: March-Nov Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Rome Fiumicino (93 miles) Train/bus: 4 hrs - ~€24 Taxi: 2 hrs - ~€220 u

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Day 4 (2) • Sovana to San Quirico Paths across farmland lead to an isolated church and fine Etruscan lane that descends into a gorge, from which rises crag-top Sorano. After exploring Sorano, paths along the gorge lead to the troglodyte habitations at Vitozza and the village of San Quirico (10.3 miles, 5.5 hrs). HHH Agnelli

Rome Ciampino (100 miles) Train/bus: 4 hrs - ~€24 Taxi: 2 hrs - ~€220

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER WHINNEY

Day 5 (3) • San Quirico to Bolsena Cart tracks across farmland lead to an escarpment, where paths descend towards the small town of Latera. A climb through chestnut woods to the rim of a volcanic crater offers superb views. Tracks lead down to Lake Bolsena (10.4 miles, 5.5 hrs), from where a private boat takes you across the lake to Bolsena (town). HHHH Hotel Columbus (std) HHHHH Ludwig Boutique Hotel (sup) Day 6 • Free day in Bolsena Explore Bolsena, its ancient streets, castle, Etruscan temples and church, and catacombs of Santa Cristina, site of the miracle of Corpus Christi. Swimming in the lake. Optional walk from Acquapendente through the low Monti Volsinii (12.2 miles, 6 hrs). HHHH Hotel Columbus (std) HHHHH Ludwig Boutique Hotel (sup)

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, Italian and Polish.

Day 7 (4) • Bolsena to Orvieto An old Etruscan lane leads up through woods to a plateau and across farmland. The first view of Orvieto, situated high on its extinct volcano, is unforgettable (10.7 miles, 5.5 hrs). Don’t miss the magnificent cathedral! HHH Hotel Corso (std) HHHH Palazzo Piccolomini (sup)

Route Book: 123 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Easy to moderate (Grade 2 – 3). See p.10. Terrain: Dirt roads/farm tracks/mule paths across hills and plateaux, via vineyards, gorges and narrow wooded valleys. Fascinating volcanic landscape.

Day 8 (5) • Departure day *Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary Feet 2000 1000 0

Pitigliano Sovana

Day 2

Miles 0

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

San Quirico Latera

Day 3 5

Bolsena Acquapendente Bolsena

Orvieto Metres 610 305 0

Sorano Day 4 10

Day 5 15

by boat 25

+ (44) 01865 315 678

Day 6 35

Day 7 45

trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com 21

Southern Tuscany Day 1 • Arrive in Siena The best-preserved great medieval city in Europe. HH Piccolo Hotel Etruria (std) HHH Santa Caterina (sup) Day 2 • Siena to Lucignano Walk south from Siena following the route of the early medieval Via Francigena, across the open hills of the crete, to Lucignano (14.5 miles, 7 hrs). HHH Borgo Antico Day 3 • Lucignano to Buonconvento (Day 1 – Arrive Buonconvento)* Walk through pastures, vineyards and olive groves overlooking the Arbia and Ombrone valleys, to walled Buonconvento, with its small museum housing 14th/15th century masterpieces (9.8 miles, 5 hrs). HHH Pieve a Salti (8-day std) Podere Salicotto (8-day sup) HHH Il Ghibellino (5-day) Day 4 • Excursion Walk to visit one of the finest abbeys in Europe – the Benedictine Monte Oliveto Maggiore, with its superb cloister of magnificent frescoes by Signorelli and Sodoma (return journey 11.6 miles, 6 hrs). HHH Pieve a Salti (std) Podere Salicotto (sup) Day 5 (2) • Buonconvento to Montalcino Over open hills and through the famous vineyards of Brunello to panoramically situated Montalcino, centre of the Brunello wine area and home to a 14th century castle and excellent museum (11.4 or 13.1 miles, 5.5 or 6.5 hrs). HHH Dei Capitani

Italy Siena

Lucignano

Buonconvento 0

10 miles

Montefollonico Montalcino Pienza Bagno optional extensions Vignoni Sant’Antimo Montepulciano

..... 5-day route ˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: April-Oct Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Florence (50 miles) Train/bus: 1.75 hrs - ~€15 Taxi: 1 hr - ~€140 u

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Pisa (74 miles) Train/bus: 2 hrs - ~€14 Taxi: 1.5 hrs - ~€160

Day 6 (3) • Montalcino to Bagno Vignoni Walk through the vineyards of Brunello to the superb Romanesque abbey-church of Sant’Antimo, built of alabaster and onyx. Then on to the Orcia Valley and Bagno Vignoni, with its Roman thermal baths in central piazza (11.2 or 14.1 miles, 5.5 or 7 hrs). HHH Le Terme Day 7 (4) • Bagno Vignoni to Pienza Walk along the Orcia Valley then across open farmland to Pienza, birthplace of Aeneas Piccolomini. When elected Pope Pius II in 1458, he commissioned the architect Rossellino to convert his birthplace into the first Renaissance city. A five minute walk from end to end, Pienza has a delightful papal palace, ‘cathedral’ and museum (5.8 miles, 2.5 hrs). HHH Residence San Gregorio (std) HHHH Il Chiostro (sup) Day 8 (5) • Departure day, or... Optional extension to Montepulciano (standard) or Montefollonico (superior).

Terrain: Open rolling hills with spectacular views. Paths along farm tracks, ancient drove roads and gravel lanes.

Lucignano

Siena

Pieve a Salti Pieve a Salti Monte Oliveto Buonconvento Maggiore

Feet 2000 1000 0

Route Book: 151 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate (Grade 3). See p.10.

*Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary

Miles 0

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English and Italian.

Day 2 5

Day 3 10

Day 4 25

Montalcino

Day 5 35

Sant'Antimo

Day 6 45

Bagno Vignoni

Pienza

Day 7 60

Montepulciano/ Montefollonico

Extension 70

Metres 610 305 0

For route dates, prices and booking conditions see 'ATG 2020 News' or website

Unknown Umbria & Spoleto Day 1 (1)* • Arrive in Norcia Historic walled town, birthplace of St Benedict and renowned for its much cherished gastronomic speciality – the truffle. HHHH Palazzo Seneca Day 2 • Free day around Norcia Travel by road to picturesque Castelluccio (4,000ft) and walk across the Piano Grande, the most inspiring highland plain in Europe, then back down to Norcia (9.7 miles, 5 hrs). Alternatively, explore Norcia, its central piazza with church of St Benedict (480–543 AD) and medieval town walls. HHHH Palazzo Seneca Day 3 (2) • Norcia to Roccaporena Follow farm tracks across low hills to the small town of Cascia and churches with 14th century frescoes. Then follow an ancient pilgrim path along the gorge to Roccaporena, birthplace of St Rita, patron saint of desperate causes (12.9 miles, 6.5 hrs). HHH Roccaporena (std & sup rooms)

Italy 0

10 miles

Monti Sibillini

Castelluccio

Norcia Spoleto Scheggino

Roccaporena

Ferentillo

..... 5-day route ˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: May-Oct Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Rome (125 miles) Train/bus: 4 hrs - ~€18-40 Taxi: 2.5 hrs - ~€270 u

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Perugia (56 miles) Train/bus: 3 hrs - ~€20 Taxi: 1.25 hrs - ~€170

Day 4 (3) • Roccaporena to Scheggino Cross hills with oak woods famous for their truffles to Gavelli, with fine frescoes restored by the ATG Trust. Follow an old (dirt) road steeply down to Scheggino or, alternatively, take a gentler route via Caso (12.5 miles direct or 12.9 miles via Caso, 6.5 hrs). HH Del Ponte (std & 5-day sup) HHHH Abbazia di San Pietro in Valle (sup 8-day only) residenza d’epoca

PHOTO: AMELIA WHINNEY

Day 5 • Valley Walk Optional walk along the Valnerina Valley to the superb 5th century monastery of San Pietro in Valle, with frescoes, Roman decorative fragments and sarcophagi of 8th century Lombard dukes (6.1 miles, 2.5 hrs one way). Superior route: walk in reverse. HH Del Ponte (std) HHHH Abbazia di San Pietro in Valle (sup) residenza d’epoca

Day 6 (4) • Scheggino to Spoleto Follow the 'Path of Pope Pius IX' along a valley, then climb up, in and out of woods, to a ridge with fine views of the surrounding hills, before descending, via chestnut woods and olive groves, to Spoleto (8.3 or 12.5 miles std / 12.3 or 14.3 miles sup). HHH Hotel Charleston (std) HHHH Palazzo Dragoni residenza d’epoca (sup) Day 7 • Free day in Spoleto Explore the medieval city, its 12th century cathedral with frescoes by Fra Filippo Lippi, and important Romanesque churches. The Spoleto festival takes place early-mid July. HHH Hotel Charleston (std) HHHH Palazzo Dragoni residenza d’epoca (sup) Day 8 (5) • Departure day *Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English and Italian. Route Book: 111 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate to challenging (Grade 3 – 4). See p.10. Terrain: Woodland, sheep and mule tracks, dirt roads and ways over high open grassland with wide views. Feet 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Castelluccio Piano Norcia Grande

Miles 0

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Day 2 5

Day 3 10

Scheggino San Pietro in Valle

Roccaporena

+ (44) 01865 315 678

Day 4 20

Day 5 35

Spoleto Metres 1535 1220 915 610 305 0

Day 6 45

trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com 23

Umbria & Assisi

Italy 0

Day 1 • Arrive in Spoleto Elegant and medieval city with important Romanesque churches and a 12th century cathedral with frescoes by Fra Filippo Lippi. HHH Charleston (std) HHHH Palazzo Dragoni (sup) Day 2 • Spoleto to Poreta From Spoleto follow a scenic disused railway line with long views across the Umbra Valley, then paths that climb and fall between small villages, through woodland, olive groves and farmland, to the tiny hamlet of Poreta (10.7 miles, 5.5–6 hrs). HHHH farm resort Borgo della Marmotta (std & sup rooms) Day 3 • Poreta to San Luca From Poreta follow small lanes and tracks to Campello Alto, a delightful medieval hilltop village, with wonderful views. Then descend to the valley passing the limpid waters of the Roman Fonti del Clitunno, and follow farm tracks and lanes across the plain to San Luca (9.9 miles, 5 hrs). Stay at a fine villa surrounded by vineyards producing some of Italy's finest red wines. HHHH Villa Zuccari (8-day std & sup rooms)

10 miles

Assisi Spello

Bevagna Montefalco

San Luca

Poreta

Spoleto

..... 5-day route 5-day route

˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: April-Nov Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Rome (100 miles) Train/bus: 2.5 hrs - ~€25 Taxi: 2 hrs - ~€190 u

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Perugia (34 miles) Train/bus: 1.5 hrs - ~€15 Taxi: 45 mins - ~€100

Day 1 – Arrive Montefalco* HHHH Villa Pambuffetti (5-day std & sup rooms) Day 4 • San Luca to Bevagna (8-day) (Day 2 – Montefalco to Bevagna) Walk up through the Sagrantino vineyards to hilltop Montefalco, ‘the balcony of Umbria’. Visit the superbly frescoed church of San Francesco before continuing on down through renowned vineyards to the little walled town of Bevagna (9.3 miles, 4.5 hrs). (5-day itinerary: 5.4 miles, 2.5 hrs). HHH Palazzo Brunamonti

Day 6 (4) • Spello to Assisi Set off early to climb the high flower-filled pastures of Monte Subasio (1,278m / 4,192ft), or take a ride to near the top, enjoying fabulous views, before descending a mountain spur to enter Assisi on the stony pilgrim path once frequented by St Francis (10.1 or 11 miles, 5–6 hrs). HHHH Hotel Giotto & Spa (std) HHHHH Nun Assisi (sup) Day 7 • Free day in Assisi Free day to explore Assisi, or visit the nearby Franciscan sites of the Carceri hermitage or churches of San Damiano or Santa Maria degli Angeli. HHHH Hotel Giotto & Spa (std) HHHHH Nun Assisi (sup) Day 8 (5) • Departure day *Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER WHINNEY

Day 5 (3) • Bevagna to Spello After visiting Bevagna’s Roman theatre and impressive mosaic baths, follow small lanes and tracks across the valley to Spello where there is time to explore the attractive Roman and medieval town (7.8 miles, 3.5 hrs). HHH Il Cacciatore (std) HHHH La Bastiglia (sup)

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English and Italian. Route Book: 103 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate (Grade 3). See p.10. Terrain: Small gravel roads, woodland paths, grassy meadows and forest paths/tracks. Spoleto Feet 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Miles 0

Poreta

Day 2 5

Montefalco Bevagna

Feet 4000 3000 2000 1000

Assisi San Luca Bevagna Spello Metres Monte Subasio Montefalco 1220

Day 3 10

Spello

Day 4 20

Day 5 30

Day 6 40

Assisi Monte Subasio Metres

915 For route dates, prices and booking conditions see 'ATG 2020 News' or website 610 1220

305

915 610 305 0

High Paths to Assisi

Italy 0

10 miles

Day 1 • Arrive in Spoleto Elegant and medieval city with Romanesque churches and a 12C cathedral with frescoes by Fra Filippo Lippi. HHH Charleston (std) HHHH Palazzo Dragoni (sup) Day 2 • Spoleto to Poreta Follow a scenic disused railway line with long views across the Umbra Valley, then paths that climb and fall between small villages, through woodland, olive groves and farmland, to the tiny hamlet of Poreta (std: 10.7 miles / sup: 10.5 miles, 5.5–6 hrs). HHHH farm resort Borgo della Marmotta (std & sup rooms) Day 3 • Poreta to Trevi Small lanes and tracks lead up to Campello Alto, a delightful medieval hilltop village with wonderful views, and then on to the village of Pissignano, with its majestic 11C castle. Ancient olive grove terraces lead us via spectacular scenery and a Roman aqueduct to the ancient hilltop town of Trevi, with its excellent churches and museums housing numerous art treasures, and interesting museum of olive oil (8.9 miles, 4 hrs). HHHH Antica Dimora alla Rocca

Assisi Spello Carpello Trevi Poreta Spoleto ˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: April-Nov Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Rome (100 miles) Train/bus: 2.5 hrs - ~€25 Taxi: 2 hrs - ~€190 u

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Perugia (34 miles) Train/bus: 1.5 hrs - ~€15 Taxi: 45 mins - ~€100

Day 4 • Trevi to Carpello Paths continue along the slope of Monte Serano, offering splendid views over the valley. Walk via tiny, remote hilltop villages, Roman settlements and an impressive ‘keep’ before descending to your hotel, in a lovely setting with wonderful views (low route: 9 miles / high route: 9.2 miles, 5 hrs). La Quercetta agriturismo Day 5 • Carpello to Spello Paths lead gently up through oak forests and olive groves to the impressively situated 11C Benedictine Abbey of Santa Croce in Sassovivo. Then descend gradually, through juniper and pine forest, via waterfalls and ancient hamlets, across the Topino Valley, up and on to the splendid Roman, medieval town of Spello (std: 13.7 miles / sup: 13.4 miles, 7 hrs). HHH Il Cacciatore (std) HHHH La Bastiglia (sup) Day 6 • Spello to Assisi Climb the high flower-filled pastures of Monte Subasio, or take a ride to near the top, enjoying fabulous views, before descending to Assisi on the stony pilgrim path once frequented by St Francis (std: 11 miles / sup: 10.6 miles, 6 hrs). HHHH Hotel Giotto & Spa (std) HHHHH Nun Assisi (sup) Day 7 • Free day in Assisi Explore Assisi, or visit the nearby Franciscan sites of the Carceri hermitage or churches of San Damiano or Santa Maria degli Angeli. HHHH Hotel Giotto & Spa (std) HHHHH Nun Assisi (sup) Day 8 • Departure day

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English and Italian. Route Book: 104 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate to challenging (Grade 3 – 4). See p.10. Terrain: Small gravel roads; woodland paths; grassy meadows; forest paths; and ancient olive grove tracks. Spoleto Feet 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Miles 0

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Poreta

Day 2 5

Trevi

Day 3 10

+ (44) 01865 315 678

Day 4 20

Assisi Spello Monte Subasio Metres 1220

Carpello

Day 5 30

Day 6 40

915 610 305 0

trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com 25

Montefeltro & Urbino

Italy 5

10 miles

SAN MARINO San Leo

Day 1 • Arrive in San Leo A scenic walk from the valley, along strade bianche, leads up to the dramatically situated fortified medieval village of San Leo (2.9 or 5.3 miles, 1.5 or 3 hrs). HH Il Castello (std & sup rooms)

Villagrande

Frontino

Urbino Piandimeleto Urbania

Day 2 • San Leo to Villagrande Time to explore San Leo, its 9th century pre-Romanesque Pieve, 12th century Romanesque ‘cathedral’ and impressive castle. Afternoon walk through farmland and pine woods to a low pass (3,000ft), and your hotel, beside a small lake (6.2 miles, 3 hrs). HHH Sci Bar La Baita

˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Day 3 • Villagrande to Frontino Farm tracks through woods and meadows towards Monte Carpegna (4,634ft). Then choose either an ancient drove road around the base of the mountain, or paths up to high meadows and an escarpment (summit) with spectacular views, before descending through pine woods. Routes join in the village of Carpegna and continue to the fortified medieval village of Frontino (9.7 or 11 miles, 5–5.5 hrs). Country House ‘Locanda Le Querce’

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: April-Oct Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Bologna (84 miles) Train/bus: 2.5 hrs - ~€90 (incl. taxi Rimini-San Leo)

Taxi: 1.75 hrs - ~€250 Ancona (76 miles) Train/bus: 2.25 hrs - ~€80 (incl. taxi Rimini-San Leo)

Taxi: 1.5 hrs - ~€220

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Day 4 • Frontino to Piandimeleto After visiting the monastery of Montefiorentino with its cloister and Madonna by Giovanni Santi, father of Raphael, farm and forest tracks lead down to the small town of Piandimeleto, distinguished by its fine castle complex (8.5 miles, 4 hrs). HH Hotel Ester

PHOTO: MYA PADGET

Day 5 • Piandimeleto to Urbania We follow farm tracks up into the hills, enjoying panoramic views. Beyond a ridge (1,602ft) we follow tracks and small gravel lanes through open farmland and down to Urbania (917ft) (12.3 miles, 6 hrs). agriturismo La Caputa Day 6 • Urbania to Urbino Visit Urbania, its arcaded streets, fine 15th century Ducal Palace, ceramics museum, many interesting churches… then quiet gravel lanes lead across hills, past farms and isolated churches, to Urbino (1,575ft) (12.6 miles, 6.5 hrs). HHH Hotel Italia (std) HHHH San Domenico (sup) Day 7 • Free day in Urbino Visit the superb palace built by Duke Federico da Montefeltro, with paintings by Piero della Francesca, Raphael, Paolo Uccello, etc. HHH Hotel Italia (std) HHHH San Domenico (sup) Day 8 • Departure day

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English and Italian. Route Book: 111 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Easy to moderate (Grade 2 – 3). See p.10. Terrain: Walking on small gravel roads, grassy meadow paths, and woodland/farm tracks along ridges with superb views. Marecchia

Frontino Piandimeleto Feet Valley Villagrande 5000 Mt. Carpegna 4000 San Leo 3000 2000 1000 0 1 Day 5 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Miles 0

Urbania

Urbino

Day 6 40

For route dates, prices and booking conditions see 'ATG 2020 News' or website

Metres 1535 1220 915 610 305 0

Roman Roads to Orvieto

Italy 0

10 miles

Acquapendente Orvieto

Day 1 (1)* • Arrive in Viterbo Walled city with historic papal palace, cathedral, fine Romanesque churches and medieval quarter. HHH Hotel Tuscia

Bolsena Bagnoregio Lake Bolsena Isola Bisentina

Montefiascone Ferentum

Tuscania

Day 2 • Free day in Viterbo Opportunities for city walk, exploring Viterbo (2 miles, 1 hr). Walk (or bus) to Bagnaia to visit the Villa Lante gardens, Vignola’s Renaissance masterpiece, using the natural flow of water (closed Mondays) (5.3 miles, 2.5 hrs). HHH Hotel Tuscia

Bagnaia

Viterbo

˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Day 3 (2) • Viterbo to Montefiascone Gravel lanes lead across a plain, via ancient thermal pools, to a fine section of paved Roman Via Cassia, and on to panoramically situated Montefiascone (2,070ft), with its castle, and church of San Flaviano with a famously inscribed tomb of Bishop Fugger (11.6 miles, 6 hrs). HHH Urbano V

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Route open: March-Nov Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Rome Fiumicino (65 miles) Train/bus: 3 hrs - ~€11 Taxi: 1.5 hrs - ~€150 u

Rome Ciampino (60 miles) Train/bus: 3 hrs - ~€11 Taxi: 1.5 hrs - ~€150

Day 4 (3) • Montefiascone to Bolsena Follow the route of the ancient Via Cassia until it disappears into woods. Then paths and farm tracks with fine views lead down along sand beaches beside the lake (swim!)…to Bolsena (1,080ft) (11.1 miles, 5.5 hrs). HHHH Hotel Columbus (std) HHHHH Ludwig Boutique Hotel (sup)

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER WHINNEY

Day 5 • Free day in Bolsena Explore Bolsena, its ancient streets, castle, Etruscan temples, and ‘triple’ church of Santa Cristina, site of the miracle of Corpus Christi (1263). Opportunity for lake excursions and swimming. Optional walk from Acquapendente through the low Monti Volsinii (12.2 miles, 6 hrs). HHHH Hotel Columbus (std) HHHHH Ludwig Boutique Hotel (sup) Day 6 (4) • Bolsena to Orvieto Follow the old pilgrim route across a high plateau (2,000ft) with extensive views, towards Orvieto. The first view of the crag-top city is unforgettable (10.7 miles, 5.5 hrs). HHH Hotel Corso (std) HHHH Palazzo Piccolomini (sup)

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, Italian and Polish.

Day 7 • Free day in Orvieto Optional city walk (2 hrs), including Orvieto’s magnificent cathedral and Capella della Madonna di San Brizio, with outstanding frescoes by Fra Angelico and Signorelli, Etruscan tombs, museums and remarkable well – ‘one of the second seven wonders of the world’. HHH Hotel Corso (std) HHHH Palazzo Piccolomini (sup) Day 8 (5) • Departure day *Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary

Walking: Easy (Grade 2). See p.10. Terrain: Roman/Etruscan roads. Volcanic ash paths; farm tracks; occasional mule and forest paths; stretches of asphalt near towns.

Feet Viterbo 3000 2000 1000 0 Day 2 Miles 0

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Route Book: 101 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information.

Montefiascone

Day 3 10

Bolsena

Acquapendente Bolsena

Day 4 15

+ (44) 01865 315 678

915 610 305 0

Day 6

Day 5 25

Orvieto Metres

trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com 27

Southern Lakes Day 1 • Arrive in Trevignano Romano... ...to stay at a fine, restored villa with views across Lake Bracciano. HHH Albergo Borgo Vistalago

Italy Orvieto Bolsena

Lake Bolsena

Bagnoregio

Isola Bisentina

Montefiascone Ferentum

Tuscania

Bagnaia

Viterbo

Day 2 • Trevignano Romano to Ronciglione Walk through hazel groves and beech woods; and along pleasant tracks and lanes with impressive views of Lake Bracciano...en route to Sutri (8.9 miles, 5 hrs). After visiting its famous frescoed pilgrim church and impressive amphitheatre, the onward walk to Ronciglione is along easy paths (5.2 miles, 2.5 hrs). La Canonica dei Fiori Day 3 • Ronciglione to Viterbo Walk to Lake Vico (1,600ft), then follow a track up through oak forest to the rim of the ancient crater (2,935ft) and the Monti Cimini. From here, walk down through chestnut groves and forest to the walled city of Viterbo (1,300ft), (12.5 miles, 5.5–6 hrs). Or: Visit the splendid Villa Farnese at Caprarola, then transfer for the walk (7.5 or 8.8 miles, 3–4 hrs) to Viterbo. HHH Hotel Tuscia

Lake Vico

10 miles

Ronciglione

Trevignano Romano Lake Bracciano ˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: March-Nov Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Rome Fiumicino (41 miles) Train/bus: 2 hrs - ~€19 Taxi: 1 hr - ~€120 u

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Rome Ciampino (41 miles) Train/bus: 2 hrs - ~€10 Taxi: 1 hr - ~€120

Day 4 • Viterbo to Montefiascone Visit the elegant 16C garden of Villa Lante, then walk across a plateau with long views, past thermal Roman baths and along superbly preserved Roman road (7.7 miles, 4 hrs). Stay in the medieval centre of Montefiascone. Or walk all the way (11.6 miles, 6 hrs). HHH Urbano V

Day 6 • Bolsena to Orvieto Walk up to the castle through Etruscan, Roman and medieval levels of Bolsena, then follow Roman, Etruscan and medieval ways across a plateau to the great crag-top city of Orvieto, where you stay in the medieval city (10.7 miles, 5.5 hrs). HHH Hotel Corso (std) HHHH Palazzo Piccolomini (sup) Day 7 • Free day to explore Orvieto, with its magnificent cathedral, double-helix well of San Patrizio, Etruscan necropolis, museums, elegant cafés and bars, and good shopping. A city walk is included in the Route Book. HHH Hotel Corso (std) HHHH Palazzo Piccolomini (sup) Day 8 • Departure day

PHOTO: PETER LEWIS

Day 5 • Montefiascone to Bolsena Walk along paths with panoramic views across the wide waters of Lake Bolsena, following the route, with some original paved stretches, of the ancient Roman road; before descending across meadows and through woods to the lakeside, and on to the ancient town of Bolsena (11.1 miles, 5.5 hrs). HHHH Hotel Columbus (std) HHHHH Ludwig Boutique Hotel (sup)

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, Italian and Polish. Route Book: 135 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Easy to moderate (Grade 2 – 3). See p.10. Terrain: Low volcanic hills with long views across lakes; established paths through woods and vineyards; farm tracks; some asphalt near towns.

Feet Trevignano Ronciglione 3000 Romano Sutri 2000 1000 0 Day 3 Day 2 Miles 0

Viterbo Montefiascone Bagnaccio

Day 4 25

Bolsena

Day 5 35

Orvieto Metres 915 610 305 0

Day 6 50

For route dates, prices and booking conditions see 'ATG 2020 News' or website

Amalfi Coast

Italy 0

Day 1 • Arrive in Ravello …with its splendid villas, gardens and art treasures in an incomparable setting. HHHH Bonadies (std) HHHH Giordano (sup) Day 2 • Ravello – excursion Follow ancient stairways down to the fishing village of Atrani, a maze of whitewashed alleys. Paths then lead through lemon groves to Scala, the oldest ‘little’ city of the coast, then back to Ravello (6.7 miles, 5 hrs). HHHH Bonadies (std) HHHH Giordano (sup) Day 3 • Ravello to Amalfi (Day 1 – Arrive Amalfi)* A high path leads to the famous nature reserve of Valle delle Ferriere, through meadows, chestnut groves and past waterfalls towards the village of Pogerola, and then down an ancient flight of steps towards the historic ‘city’ of Amalfi (8.5 miles, 6 hrs). HHHH Luna Convento

10 miles

S.ta Maria del Castello

Scala

Montepertuso Positano

Ravello Atrani Amalfi

Vettica Conca dei Marini Maggiore

..... 5-day route ˚F ˚C 104 40

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: April-June; Sept-Oct Airport to ﬁrst hotel: u Naples (40 miles) Train/bus: 4 hrs - ~€25-50 Taxi: 1.25 hrs - ~€130

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Day 4 (2) • Amalfi to Conca dei Marini Time to visit Amalfi and its cathedral, with bronze door cast in Constantinople, mosaic façade and 13th century cloister. A 1,000-year-old footpath leads through historic villages to Conca dei Marini. Opportunities to visit the Grotta dello Smeraldo (3.7 miles, 3 hrs). HHH Le Terrazze Day 5 (3) • Conca dei Marini to Vettica Maggiore A stepped footpath passes churches with panoramic views, and descends into the spectacular fjord of Furore. Then the Via dell’Amore leads into the green Praia Valley, before descending to the quiet village of Vettica Maggiore (5.5 miles, 4 hrs). HHHH Tramonto d’Oro Day 6 (4) • Vettica Maggiore to Positano Climb up to the monastery of San Domenico and along the Sentiero degli Dei (Footpath of the Gods), a high open ridge walk with fine views, before descending through olive groves to Positano (5.8 miles, 4.5 hrs). HHHH Savoia (5/8-day std & 5-day sup) HHHH Palazzo Murat (8-day sup) Day 7 • Positano – excursion Originally a small fishing village, now an exclusive resort, Positano’s church boasts a lovely majolica dome and Byzantine Madonna. Scenic paths with panoramic views lead from Montepertuso to Santa Maria and back along the fertile Pozzo Valley (5.4 miles, 4 hrs). HHHH Savoia (std) HHHH Palazzo Murat* (sup) *Superior 8-day price includes a third night at this hotel due to minimum-stay policy. Day 8 (5) • Departure day *Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, Italian, French and German. Route Book: 96 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate to challenging (Grade 3 – 3+). See p.10. Terrain: Ancient paths with long steep flights of steps, which climb and descend through lemon groves. Ravello Feet 2000 1000 0

Miles 0

Vettica Positano Montepertuso Maggiore Metres Conca dei 610 Marini

Ravello

Amalfi

Scala Day 2

Day 3 5

+ (44) 01865 315 678

Day 4 15

Day 5 20

Day 6 25

Day 7 30

305 0

trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com 29

Gargano Peninsula

Day 1 • Arrive in Manfredonia Time to explore the town with its port and castle. HHH Hotel Panorama del Golfo Day 2 • Manfredonia to Monte Sant’Angelo Walk along the coast then across a small plain before ascending an ancient pilgrim route, once used by crusaders before they embarked for the Holy Land. The route, now a grassy ravine with ruined monasteries on either side, leads to the ancient town of Monte Sant’Angelo (2,755ft), with its whitewashed houses, steep narrow alleys and stairways, and views across the bay of Manfredonia and coast to the south (9.3 miles, 5 hrs / bus 20 mins!). HHHH Palace Hotel San Michele Day 3 • Monte Sant'Angelo to Mattinata Time to explore the town and visit the famous cave church, venerated as being the last place St Michael appeared on Earth in 491 AD, before setting off down a well-made pilgrim path to the small town of Mattinata (650ft) set in olive groves, close to the coast (9.2 miles, 5 hrs). HHHH Residence Il Porto

Italy

Peschici Vieste San Salvatore Monte Baia Fontana Sant’Angelo delle Rose Mattinata Manfredonia ˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Route open: March-June; Sept-Nov Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Bari (66 miles) Train/bus: 2.5 hrs - ~€17 Taxi: 1.5 hrs - ~€150 u

Pescara (135 miles) Train/bus: 3.5 hrs - ~€30 Taxi: 2.25 hrs - ~€250

Day 4 • Mattinata to Baia Fontana delle Rose Follow paths along the coast and into hills overlooking the sea, before descending to the picturesque bay of Fontana delle Rose (7.3 miles, 3.5 hrs). HHHH Villa Scapone

Day 6 • San Salvatore to Vieste Paths lead along a ridge with fine open views, before descending to a long sandy beach and Vieste (7.7 miles, 4 hrs). HHHH Palace Hotel Vieste Day 7 • Free day in Vieste Alternatively, the walk to Peschici (see day 8) can be done on this day, returning to Vieste by bus. HHHH Palace Hotel Vieste Day 8 • Departure day, or... Optional extension to Peschici (additional cost). Follow paths through ancient olive groves and farmland and then small lanes across a series of coastal headlands to the whitewashed village of Peschici, perched on a buttress of rock (13.3 miles, 7 hrs).

PHOTO: STEPHEN SUTTON

Day 5 • Baia Fontana delle Rose to San Salvatore Tracks lead up through limestone hills and aromatic scrub to a viewpoint (1,115ft) before continuing to the isolated Masseria Sgarrazza, beautifully situated on a ridge overlooking the Gargano coast (8.6 miles, 5.5 hrs). Optional 3.5-mile circular walk to a necropolis and natural well. Masseria Sgarrazza agriturismo

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, Italian and conversational Spanish. Route Book: 111 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate (Grade 3). See p.10. Terrain: Limestone hills with coastal paths; quiet lanes; farm and woodland tracks; and pilgrim routes. Manfredonia

Monte Sant’Angelo

Mattinata

Baia Fontana delle Rose San Salvatore

Vieste

For route dates, prices and booking conditions see 'ATG 2020 News' or website

Peschici

High Gargano

Italy

Day 1 • Arrive in Manfredonia Time to explore the town with its port and castle. HHH Hotel Panorama del Golfo

Peschici

Day 2 • Manfredonia to Monte Sant’Angelo Walk along the coast before ascending an ancient pilgrim path, once used by crusaders before they embarked for the Holy Land, to hilltop Monte Sant' Angelo, with its whitewashed houses and views across the bay of Manfredonia (9.3 miles, 5 hrs / bus 20 mins!). HHHH Palace Hotel San Michele Day 3 • Monte Sant’Angelo to Mattinata Time to explore the town and visit the famous cave church, venerated as being the last place St Michael appeared on Earth in 491 AD, before setting off down a well-made pilgrim path to the small town of Mattinata (650ft), set in olive groves, close to the coast (9.2 miles, 5 hrs). HHHH Residence Il Porto Day 4 • Mattinata to Baia Fontana delle Rose Follow paths along the coast and into hills overlooking the sea, before descending to the picturesque bay of Fontana delle Rose (7.3 miles, 3.5 hrs). HHHH Villa Scapone

Rifugio Sfilzi San Salvatore Monte Sant’Angelo

˚F ˚C 104 40

Baia Fontana delle Rose Mattinata Manfredonia

95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Route open: March-June; Sept-Nov Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Bari (66 miles) Train/bus: 2.5 hrs - ~€17 Taxi: 1.5 hrs - ~€150 u

Pescara (135 miles) Train/bus: 3.5 hrs - ~€30 Taxi: 2.25 hrs - ~€250

Day 5 • Baia Fontana delle Rose to San Salvatore Tracks lead up through limestone hills and a wooded valley to a high point (2,224ft), before continuing to the isolated Masseria Sgarrazza, situated on a ridge overlooking the sea (8.6 miles, 5.5 hrs). Optional extra walk (3.5 miles, 2 hrs). Masseria Sgarrazza agriturismo

Day 7 • Rifugio Sfilzi to Peschici Follow forest tracks and meadows... to an open ridge with extensive views of the coast and clustered 'white village' of Peschici in the distance. Then continue down through olive groves and quiet lanes to your seaside hotel (9 miles, 5 hrs). Locanda al Castello Day 8 • Departure day, or... Optional extension to Vieste (additional cost): Follow small lanes across a series of coastal headlands, then paths across farmland and through ancient olive groves to long sandy beaches and Vieste (13.3 miles, 7 hrs).

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

PHOTO: ELIZABETH HACKING

Day 6 • San Salvatore to Rifugio Sfilzi Walk through olive groves and meadows, gently climbing toward superb view of the coast. Paths then lead into the heart of the Foresta Umbra, the best-preserved area of ancient woodland in Puglia, with an abundance of bird and orchid species. Tracks through beech wood then bring you to the warm hospitality of the Rifugio Sfilzi (15.3 miles, 8 hrs). Rifugio Sfilzi

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, Italian and conversational Spanish. Route Book: 125 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate to challenging (Grade 3 – 4). See p.10. Terrain: Limestone hills with coastal paths; quiet lanes; farm and woodland tracks; and pilgrim routes.

+ (44) 01865 315 678

trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com 31

Sicily: Centre to Sea I t a l y

Cefalù

Day 1 • Arrive in Enna Panoramic views, historic fortress and cathedral. HHH Hotel Bristol Day 2 • Enna (Villadoro) to Gangi The Route Manager will take you either to the main square in the town of Villadoro (where you can walk uphill on asphalt to the starting point of the route), or directly to the beginning of the route, from where the path leads to the dramatically situated town of Gangi. Ancient drove roads across gently rolling hills with views to Mt. Etna (9 or 11.7 miles, 5 or 6 hrs). H Miramonti (std) agriturismo Villa Rainò (sup) Day 3 • Gangi to Geraci Siculo Time for relaxing or a visit to Gangi (3.8 miles, 2 hrs), before walking on. Paths across farmland lead to the route of an ancient road to the hilltop village of Geraci Siculo, with its ruined Saracen castle, Saracen fountain and picturesque alleys (7.2 or 8.3 miles, 4–5 hrs). guesthouse Casa Albergo Maggio

Isnello Madonie Mountains Pomieri

Geraci Siculo Gangi Villadoro

˚F ˚C 104 40

10 miles

Calascibetta Enna

95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Route open: April-June; Sept-Oct Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Catania (52 miles) Train/bus: 1.5 hrs - ~€8 Taxi: 1 hr - ~€90 u

Palermo (103 miles) Train/bus: 3 hrs - ~€15 Taxi: 2 hrs - ~€160

Day 4 • Geraci Siculo to Pomieri Paths through open mountain meadows with extensive views lead into the wildness of the Madonie Mountains – a National Park (8.9 miles, 5 hrs). HH Pomieri Day 5 • Pomieri to Isnello A choice of routes leads to a pass, which then descends through inspiring scenery, past a Nature Reserve with fallow deer and wild boar, through meadows and woods to the hill village of Isnello (11.5 miles, 7 hrs – mostly downhill). guesthouse B&B Madonie Day 6 • Isnello to Cefalù After a short descent and stream-crossing, farm tracks lead up to a ridge and pilgrim church with panoramic views – the sea! An ancient pilgrim path then leads down through woods and meadows, olive groves and vineyards; and through scrub to lemon groves, Cefalù and the sea (11.4 miles, 7 hrs). HHHH Hotel Artemis (std) HHHHH Hotel Calette N.5 (sup) Day 7 • Free day in Cefalù Explore the picturesque ancient streets and fishing port of Cefalù, its magnificent Romanesque cathedral, and the massive buttress of rock above the town, with paths to prehistoric, Phoenician, Greek, Roman and medieval sites and fortifications, and spectacular views (2 miles). Good beaches for swimming. HHHH Hotel Artemis (std) HHHHH Hotel Calette N.5 (sup) Day 8 • Departure day

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English and Italian. Route Book: 141 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate to challenging (Grade 3 – 4). See p.10. Terrain: Drove roads; dirt roads; mule, mountain and rough animal paths across rolling hills and low mountains. Villadoro Villa Rainò Pomieri Geraci Siculo Shorter Gangi Gangi route

Isnello

For route dates, prices and booking conditions see 'ATG 2020 News' or website

Cefalù

Tuscan Hills

Italy

San ColleGimignano Val d’Elsa Monteriggioni Siena Lucignano Buonconvento

225 Miles to Rome (Section 1) A walk through central and Southern Tuscany, characterised by paths through vineyards, olive groves and forest, and landscapes punctuated with cypress trees and walled hill towns and villages.

Montalcino Monte Pescina Amiata Piancastagnaio Acquapendente Bolsena Montefiascone Viterbo Lake Vico

Day 1 • Arrive in San Gimignano The ‘Medieval Manhattan' is irresistibly charming and perfectly preserved. It houses a fine array of religious and secular frescoes and monuments. Stay on the central piazza. HHH Leon Bianco

0 5 10 15 miles

Sutri Campagnano di Roma Isola Farnese Rome

˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Day 2 • San Gimignano to Colle Val d’Elsa Walk across low hills with vineyards and olive groves to the medieval hill town of Colle Val d’Elsa, renowned for its ‘tunnel’ streets (8.7 miles, 4.5 hrs). HHHH Palazzo San Lorenzo Day 3 • Colle Val d’Elsa to Monteriggioni Paths across open farmland and through woods lead to the high village of Monteriggioni, encircled by walls with 14 watchtowers (11.6 miles, 6 hrs). HHHH Hotel Monteriggioni

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: April-Oct

350

Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Florence (39 miles) Train/bus: 2 hrs - ~€14-42 Taxi: 1 hr - ~€120 u

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Pisa (46 miles) Train/bus: 2 hrs - ~€13-40 Taxi: 1.25 hrs - ~€130

Day 4 • Monteriggioni to Siena Follow paths through woods and meadows to Siena, the best-preserved great medieval city in Europe (11.9 miles, 6.5 hrs). HHHH Athena Day 5 • Siena to Lucignano Tracks across low open hills of the Crete region lead to the village of Lucignano (15 miles, 7–7.5 hrs). HHH Borgo Antico Day 6 • Lucignano to Buonconvento Gravel lanes along the Arbia Valley lead to Buonconvento, with its interesting museum of medieval Masters (9.8 miles, 5 hrs). Optional walk to the abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore (magnificent frescoed cloister) (5.8 miles, 3 hrs). HHH Fattoria Pieve a Salti Day 7 • Buonconvento to Montalcino Paths up through renowned vineyards of Brunello (Italy’s most expensive red wine!) lead to hilltop Montalcino (10.9 or 13.1 miles, 5.5 or 6.5 hrs). HHH Dei Capitani

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English and Italian. Route Book: 145 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information.

Day 8 • Departure day, or... Continue with Section 2 of the 225 Miles to Rome route: ‘Ancient Volcanic Landscapes’ (following pages)... Please note: The Romans rested ‘every four days’. If you plan to walk more than one section of 225 Miles to Rome, we strongly urge you to book some rest days between the sections. Please contact the office for advice.

Walking: Moderate (Grade 3). See p.10. Terrain: Small gravel roads; mule/farm/woodland tracks and paths; some asphalt near towns.

San Gimignano Feet Colle Val d’Elsa Monteriggioni 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Siena

Montalcino

Lucignano Pieve a Salti

Buonconvento Buonconvento Day 2

Miles 0

Day 3 10

Day 4 20

Day 5 30

Day 7

Day 6 45

Metres 1830 1535 1220 915 610 305 0

SECTION 2

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

+ (44) 01865 315 678

Montalcino Feet 6000

Seggiano

Piancastagnaio

trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com 33 Acquapendente

Lake Bolsena

Montefiascone

Viterbo Metres 1830 1535

Ancient Volcanic Landscapes

Italy

San ColleGimignano Val d’Elsa Monteriggioni Siena Lucignano Buonconvento

Montalcino Monte Pescina Amiata Piancastagnaio Acquapendente Bolsena Montefiascone Viterbo Lake Vico

225 Miles to Rome (Section 2) South of Montalcino the country becomes wilder, with forests, low plateaux and ancient volcanic landscapes dominated by Monte Amiata (1,753m / 5,750ft) and the wide crater Lake of Bolsena. Day 1 • Free day in Montalcino Centre of Brunello wine production. Hotel with pool and panoramic views. HHH Dei Capitani Day 2 • Montalcino to Pescina Paths through vineyards lead down to the superb Romanesque abbey church of Sant’Antimo. You then continue down through olive groves into the Orcia Valley, before walking up to the forested slopes of Monte Amiata (12.5 miles, 6 hrs). H Hotel Terre d’Orcia Day 3 • Pescina to Piancastagnaio Walk through forest of chestnut and beech, to the ancient volcanic peak of Monte Amiata. Then continue down through forest, and a cleft in the volcanic cliffs, to Piancastagnaio, on the side of the mountain with panoramic views, where you stay at a converted monastery (16.5 miles, 8 hrs). HHH Hotel Relais San Lorenzo Day 4 • Piancastagnaio to Acquapendente Tracks along low ridges with long views bring us to the ancient town of Proceno, from where you descend to the Serlate Valley before walking up to the town of Acquapendente, with its fine square and waterfalls (20.2 miles, 9 hrs). HHH Albergo Toscana Day 5 • Acquapendente to Bolsena Forest tracks through the low Monte Volsinii lead to the edge of a wide ancient volcanic crater, then down to the wide blue waters of Lake Bolsena (12.4 miles, 6 hrs). HHHH Hotel Columbus Day 6 • Bolsena to Montefiascone Ancient paths with lake views lead to panoramic Montefiascone, surmounted by a fortress. Amongst its fine churches is that of San Flaviano, which houses the tomb of the bishop whose visit to the town is famously commemorated in the name of its wine: Est! Est!! Est!!! (11.1 miles, 5.5 hrs). HHH Urbano V Day 7 • Montefiascone to Viterbo Following one of the finest sections of paved Roman road in Italy we cross a plateau, pausing to enjoy Roman baths and thermal springs on the ancient route, before continuing to the walled city of Viterbo (11.4 miles, 5.5 hrs). HHH Hotel Tuscia Day 8 • Departure day, or... Continue with Section 3 of the 225 Miles to Rome route: ‘Approach to Rome’ (following pages)... Please note: The Romans rested ‘every four days’. If you plan to walk more than one section of 225 Miles to Rome, we strongly urge you to book some rest days between the sections. Please contact the office for advice.

Montalcino Feet 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 Miles 0

0 5 10 15 miles

Sutri Campagnano di Roma Isola Farnese Rome

˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: April-Oct Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Florence (73 miles) Train/bus: 3 hrs - ~€20 Taxi: 1.75 hrs - ~€220 u

Pisa (97 miles) Train/bus: 3.5 hrs - ~€20 Taxi: 2.25 hrs - ~€350

PHOTO: SARAH WELLBURN

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English and Italian. Route Book: 150 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate to challenging (Grade 3 – 4). See p.10. Terrain: Dirt roads; farm tracks and smaller wooded paths; broad gravel and cart tracks. Piancastagnaio

Acquapendente

Day 4

Day 3 10

350

86 30

Terre d’Orcia Pescina

Day 2

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

Lake Bolsena Montefiascone

Day 5 45

Day 7

Day 6 60

For route dates, prices and booking conditions see 'ATG 2020 News' or website

Viterbo Metres 1830 1535 1220 915 610 305 0

Approach to Rome

Italy

San ColleGimignano Val d’Elsa Monteriggioni Siena Lucignano Buonconvento

225 Miles to Rome (Section 3) Historic towns and villages now influenced by the vortex of Rome, whilst in the ancient volcanic landscapes, are evocative reminders of the Via Francigena, its ancient origins, and the millions who have travelled the route. Day 1 • Arrive in Viterbo Free day in Viterbo, with its fine churches, papal palace and medieval quarter. Optional walk to the Villa Lante gardens (5.3 miles, 2.5 hrs). HHH Hotel Tuscia Day 2 • Viterbo to Lake Vico Paths through oak and chestnut forest lead to a ridge, then down to an ancient crater and Lake Vico, with its secondary cone, Monte Venere, surmounted by a small temple to Venus. We walk through hazel groves to our lakeside hotel (9.2 miles, 4.5 hrs). HHH Hotel La Bella Venere

Montalcino Monte Pescina Amiata Piancastagnaio Acquapendente Bolsena Montefiascone Viterbo Lake Vico

0 5 10 15 miles

Sutri Campagnano di Roma Isola Farnese Rome

˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: April-Oct Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Rome Fiumicino (65 miles) Train/bus: 3 hrs - ~€11 Taxi: 1.5 hrs - ~€150 u

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Rome Ciampino (60 miles) Train/bus: 3 hrs - ~€11 Taxi: 1.5 hrs - ~€150

Day 3 • Lake Vico to Sutri Tracks lead down beside a river flowing from the lake, which powers over 20 water mills, en route to the picturesque ancient citadel of Ronciglione. Lanes then lead through hazelnut groves to the ancient walled town of Sutri, birthplace of Pontius Pilate, with its atmospheric amphitheatre, frescoed church of the Madonna del Parto, and Etruscan sites (9.7 miles, 4.5 hrs). B&B Le Terrecotte Day 4 • Sutri to Campagnano di Roma Follow tracks across low hills, with farmland and woods, before walking up to the gates of the walled town of Campagnano di Roma (17 miles, 8 hrs). HHH Albergo da Righetto Day 5 • Campagnano di Roma to Isola Farnese Quiet lanes and farm tracks lead via an isolated pilgrim church to the necropolis of Etruscan Veio, then, still in unspoilt country, to the hilltop village of Isola Farnese, 11 miles from Rome (12.3 miles, 6 hrs). agriturismo I Casali del Pino Day 6 • Isola Farnese to Rome Follow the Via Cassia before passing through the nature reserves of Insugherata and Monte Mario for your first magnificent views over Rome. Then follow the Viale Angelico to reach the walls of the Vatican, and on to St. Peter’s Square. Stay at a very well-situated hotel in the centre of the old city (14.3 miles, 6 hrs + sightseeing). HHH Albergo Cesari Day 7 • Free day in Rome HHH Albergo Cesari Day 8 • Departure day

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, Italian and Polish. Route Book: 117 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate (Grade 3). See p.10. Terrain: Varied paths: Etruscan roads; Roman roads; mule paths; wooded paths; cart tracks and dirt roads. Viterbo Feet 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Miles 0

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Lake Vico

Day 2

Sutri

Day 4

Day 3

+ (44) 01865 315 678

Rome

Campagnano di Roma Isola Farnese

Day 5 30

Metres 1830 1535 1220 915 610 305 0

Day 6 45

trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com 35

Alto Teruel

Spain

Day 1 • Arrive in Iglesuela del Cid A small village with finely preserved casas palacios dating from the 16th-18th centuries. HH Casa Amada Day 2 • Iglesuela del Cid to Cantavieja Cross open sierra and stony pastures with wide views to Cantavieja, sited on a high outcrop of rock, its medieval walls enclosing a Baroque church (18th century), municipal buildings dating from the 15th century, a medieval castle and a beautiful 14th century Templar church (6.6 or 12.4 miles, 3.5 or 6.5 hrs). HHHH Hotel & Spa Balfagón Day 3 • Cantavieja Time for exploring Cantavieja, its porticoed Plaza de Cristo Rey and fine views. Optional walk to a panoramic viewpoint (6.4 or 9.6 miles, 4.5 or 6.5 hrs). HHHH Hotel & Spa Balfagón

10 miles

Morella

Forcall Mirambel

Cantavieja

Iglesuela del Cid

104 40

Average daily temperature max min

95 35

400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Day 4 • Cantavieja to Mirambel Cross the valley to a hermitage overlooking Cantavieja, and follow a ridge with extensive views through wild, empty country, before descending to the riverside village of Mirambel – a walled Templar town fortified in the 13th century with five gates, remarkable for their carvings, a fine 17th century church and 16th century convent, and two casas palacios (10.1 miles, 6 hrs). Las Moradas del Temple casa rural

Route open: May-June; Sept-Oct

350

Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Castellon (50 miles) Train/bus: 2.25 hrs - ~€20 Taxi: 1.25 hrs - ~€90 u Valencia (104 miles) Train/bus: 3 hrs - ~€35 Taxi: 2 hrs - ~€180

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Day 5 • Mirambel to Forcall An ancient path up from Mirambel leads to the tiny village of La Cuba, from where another ascent and paths through scrub forest lead to a pilgrim track with fine views of our destination, Forcall, with its fine plaza mayor and Renaissance porticos with two 16th century palacios (14.7 miles, 7.5–8 hrs). Brief transfer to your hotel in Cinctorres. HHH El Faixero Day 6 • Forcall to Morella Paths lead up to the top of one of the most famous muelas in the Alto Maestrazgo, the Garumba, from where we enjoy wonderful views of Morella – which we enter through one of the four medieval gates (10.7 miles, 5–6 hrs). HHH Hotel Cardenal Ram Day 7 • Free day in Morella Morella is enclosed within 14C walls with 14 towers and four gateways, and dominated by ruins of its 12C castle, 14C aqueduct; Basilica de Santa María la Mayor (1330) with carved portals; Monastery of San Francisco with fine 13C cloister and museum. Optional walk to the picturesque village of Chiva (4.2 miles, 2.5–3 hrs). HHH Hotel Cardenal Ram Day 8 • Departure day

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English and Spanish. Route Book: 111 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate to challenging (Grade 3 – 4). See p.10. Terrain: Farm tracks; rocky cart and drove roads; mountainous paths. Low, green table-top hills, with rises and valleys. Feet Iglesuela del Cid 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 Day 2 Miles 0

Cantavieja

Day 3 15

Mirambel

Forcall

Day 5

Day 4 20

Morella Metres 1830 1535 1220 915 610 305 0

Day 6 45

For route dates, prices and booking conditions see 'ATG 2020 News' or website

Hills of Girona Day 1 (1)* • Arrive in Rupit Situated on top of a rocky promontory, Rupit preserves its medieval ambience with cobbled streets, and a jumble of stone and slate-roofed houses. HH Hostal Estrella Day 2 • Free day in Rupit Optional circular walk, visiting the Sallent waterfall and Sant Joan de Fàbregues, one of the best examples of Catalan Romanesque architecture in the area (4.3 miles, 2 hrs). HH Hostal Estrella Day 3 (2) • Rupit to Mas La Serra (via La Salut) From Rupit pass the Salt de Sallent, follow paths along the edge of the Collsacabra with splendid views, then walk through open grassy pastures and woodland to the superbly situated Santuari de Nostra Senyora de la Salut (7.6 or 10.5 miles, 3.5 or 5.5 hrs). HHH Mas La Serra

Spain Besalú

Olot Santa Pau

Joanetes

Rupit

Mas La Serra La Salut

0 5 10 15 miles

..... 5-day route 5-day route

˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Day 4 (3) • Mas La Serra to Joanetes Enter the heart of the Collsacabra, a high isolated plateau with views across the whole of the Garrotxa. After visiting the hermitage of Sant Miquel de Castelló perched on a rocky outcrop, descend into the valley below to spend the night (5.8 miles, 3 hrs). Or, a more challenging route with magnificent views takes you via the delightful village of Hostalets d’en Bas (7.7 miles, 4 hrs). HHH El Ferres casa rural

Route open: May-June; Sept-Oct Airports to ﬁrst hotel: u Barcelona (76 miles) Train/bus: 3 hrs - ~€17 Taxi: 1.75 hrs - ~€160 u

Girona (50 miles) Train/bus: 2.5 hrs - ~€15 Taxi: 1.25 hrs - ~€115

Day 5 (4) • Joanetes to Santa Pau Easy paths enter the Natural Park of Garrotxa passing Romanesque churches in picturesque woodland settings. Continue through beech forest between dormant volcanoes before reaching medieval Santa Pau, an ancient barony with an 11C castle (11.8 or 15.5 miles, 6 or 7–8 hrs). HHHH Cal Sastre (std) Mas Can Batlle casa rural (sup) Day 6 • Free day Optional excursion to the dormant volcano of Santa Margarida, with its tiny chapel inside the crater, then back along a fertile valley to Santa Pau (7.8 miles, 3.5–4 hrs). Alternatively, explore the excellent museums in Olot. HHHH Cal Sastre (std) Mas Can Batlle casa rural (sup) Day 7 • Santa Pau to Besalú Pass craggy peaks and mountain rivers before climbing to a high ridge with views. Oak and pine forests then lead to medieval Besalú with its 11C fortified bridge, Jewish bath-house and 12C monastery church (9.8 or 12.6 miles, 5 or 6.5 hrs). HHH Els Jardins de la Martana (std) HHH Casa Marcial (sup) Day 8 (5) • Departure day

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English and Spanish. Route Book: 97 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Easy to moderate (Grade 2 – 3). See p.10. Terrain: Mostly gentle, well-defined tracks across serra and through farmland; forest tracks and country lanes. Rupit

La Salut Joanetes Mas La Serra

Santa Pau Santa Pau Santa Margarida

Besalú

*Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

+ (44) 01865 315 678

trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com 37

Paths of Peneda

Portugal Melgaço

Day 1 (1)* • Arrive in Arcos de Valdevez Arrive in Arcos de Valdevez. Arcos, with cobbled streets and ornate churches, is picturesquely set on the banks of the River Vez. HHHH Ribeira Collection Hotel

10 miles

SPAIN

PORTUGAL Castro Laboreiro Peneda PENEDA NATIONAL PARK Mezio

Day 2 (2) • Arcos de Valdevez to Soajo Paths through forest, pasture and scrub lead up to the megalithic monuments at Mezio, ‘gateway’ to the Peneda National Park, from where ancient tracks and paths lead down to the delightful village of Soajo. ArcosSoajo (13.8 miles, 6-7 hrs); Mezio-Soajo (4 miles, 2 hrs). Casa do Adro

Soajo

Arcos de Valdevez

..... 5-day route ˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Day 3 • Soajo Explore Soajo’s quaint alleys, admire espigueiros (granite grain stores) and walk through terraces and valleys around the village (3.4 miles, 2 hrs). Alternatively, transfer (bus/taxi) to old Lindoso with its castle and 53 espigueiros, before crossing the Alto (high) Lindoso Dam and following the Lima Valley to an ancient bridge and natural pools below Soajo (7.1 miles, 4 hrs). Casa do Adro

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: May-July; Sept-Oct Airport to ﬁrst hotel: u Porto (60 miles) Train/bus: 2 hrs - ~€12 Taxi: 1 hr - ~€100

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Day 4 (3) • Soajo to Peneda Increasingly scenic ancient trails lead up to the village of Adrão, then across a ridge (views!) before descending into the Peneda Valley and following the pilgrimage path to the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Peneda (9.8 miles, 5-6 hrs). Alternatively, follow paths through wild valleys above crystal-clear rivers before joining the ancient pilgrim route to Peneda (7.1 miles, 4 hrs). HHH Hotel Peneda Day 5 (4) • Peneda to Castro Laboreiro Follow gentle paths up the wooded Peneda Valley before climbing over the high serra to descend to the frontier settlement of Castro Laboreiro (9.6 miles, 5-6 hrs). Alternatively, explore the beautiful and dramatic granite highlands above Peneda (6 miles, 3-4 hrs) before walking over the high serra to Castro Laboreiro (4.3 miles, 2.5-3 hrs). HHH Albergaria Miracastro Day 6 • Castro Laboreiro Alternative options to explore the splendid landscapes around Castro Laboreiro: rocky outcrops, moorland and valleys, megalithic monuments, small granite villages, ancient bridges and 13C castle (up to 11.1 miles, 1.5-6.5 hrs). HHH Albergaria Miracastro Day 7 • Castro Laboreiro to Melgaço Old paths link granite villages close to the Spanish border, before an open ridge and well-graded descent with wide views of the Minho Valley and distant Galicia... and Melgaço, with its castle, vineyards and thermal springs ... (13.5 miles, 6 hrs – or 9 miles, 4 hrs). Quinta da Calcada

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, Portuguese, French and conversational Spanish. Route Book: 156 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Moderate to challenging (Grade 2+ – 4). See p.10.

Day 8 (5) • Departure day Alternatively, we are pleased to book accommodation in Porto, Sintra or Lisbon if you would like to extend your stay. *Days in brackets refer to 5-day itinerary

Miles 0

Soajo Soajo

Arcos de Valdevez Feet 3000 2000 1000 0

Day 2 10

Peneda Soajo Adrão

Lindoso

Mezio (Alternative start)

Terrain: Ancient granite paths, gravel roads and tracks.

Day 3

Day 3 option

Varzea

Day 4 25

Peneda Castro Castro Lamas de Mouro Park Laboreiro Laboreiro Tibo

Day 4 option 35

Day 5 45

Metres 915 610 305 0

Day 7

Day 6 50

Melgaço

For route dates, prices and booking conditions see 'ATG 2020 News' or website

Sintra & the Portuguese Coast Day 1 • Arrive in Cascais A fashionable resort with a marina, smart shops, elegant restaurants and one of the best (and cleanest!) surfing beaches in Europe. Optional exploratory walk (2 hrs). HHH Hotel Baía (std) HHHHH Hotel Albatroz (sup) Day 2 • Cascais to Guincho A 'promenade' walk along the coast, past lighthouses and interesting cliff formations (6.4 miles, 3 hrs); or a 15-minute transfer to the start of an 8-mile/4 hr walk through the serra and down to Guincho Beach (extensive views!), one of Portugal's best windsurfing locations. HHHHH Hotel Fortaleza do Guincho (std & sup rooms)

Portugal

Sintra Praia Grande Colares Sintra Azóia PORTUGAL Guincho Lisbon Cascais

˚F ˚C 104 40 95 35

Day 3 • Guincho to Azóia Follow coastal paths before heading inland into the Serra de Sintra. Opportunity to visit the interesting Convento dos Capuchos (Capuchin monastery) (+2 hrs), before returning through the Serra up to the spectacularly situated 14th century Peninha Chapel. Paths then lead down to your hotel near the coast (5 or 12.6 miles, 3 or 6 hrs). HHHH Convento de São Saturnino (std & sup rooms)

Hours 400

Hours of bright sunshine Rain in mm

Average daily temperature max min

350

86 30

300

77 25

250

68 20

200

58 15

150

50 10

100 mm 150 100 50 0

Route open: May-June; Sept-Oct Airport to ﬁrst hotel: u Lisbon (24 miles) Train/bus: 1.5 hrs - ~€6 Taxi: 35 mins - ~€60

TEMPERATURE & RAINFALL

Day 4 • Azóia to Praia Grande A cliff-top walk with spectacular views leads to Cabo (Cape) da Roca, the most westerly point of Portugal – and mainland Europe. Continue inland through the vineyards of the famous ‘Colares’ wine before returning to the coast and the beach of Praia Grande, with its world-famous swirling waves (6.9 miles, 3.5–4 hrs). HHH Hotel Arribas

Day 6 • Colares to Sintra Walk through small hamlets and vineyards before joining wide forest paths passing through the Serra to the ‘Romantic’ Palace of Monserrate, with exotic gardens and follies. Continue through the Serra and reach the arch of the old west entrance to Sintra (7.4 miles, 3.5 hrs). HHHHH Lawrence’s Hotel (std) HHHHH Tivoli Palácio de Seteais (sup) Day 7 • Free day in Sintra Described by Byron as a ‘glorious Eden’, and boasting UNESCO World Heritage status. Optional city walk. HHHHH Lawrence’s Hotel (std) HHHHH Tivoli Palácio de Seteais (sup) Day 8 • Departure day

PHOTO: NAOMI MOGIL & JAMES KEANE

Day 5 • Praia Grande to Colares Continue along the coast to the small seaside resort of Azenhas do Mar, with its pretty whitewashed houses perched on a cliff; then past more fine beaches before heading inland to the curious church of São Mamede, ‘protector of the animals’. Minor roads then lead to Colares, famous for its wine (6.7 or 9.7 miles, 3.5 or 5 hrs). HHH Sarrazola House Hotel Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, Portuguese and Spanish.

Route Book: 112 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information. Walking: Easy to moderate (Grade 2 – 3). See p.10. Terrain: Well-established paths along the Atlantic coast, through low hills, vineyards and forest. Cascais Feet 1000 0

Miles 0

Find out more: www.atg-oxford.com

Azóia Praia Grande

Guincho Day 2

Day 3 5

+ (44) 01865 315 678

Day 4 15

Colares

Day 5 25

Sintra

Day 6 35

Metres 305 0

trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com 39

Alternative Travel Group Ltd., T/A ATG Oxford 274 Banbury Road, Oxford, OX2 7DY, United Kingdom +44 (0)1865 315678 • trip-enquiry@atg-oxford.com • www.atg-oxford.com ReGisTeReD in enGLAnD nUmBeR 1449375 • VAT nUmBeR 348 2372 47

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All holidays in this brochure that do not include flights purchased through ATG are ABTOT protected by the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Ltd. Our ABTOT Trust number is 5181. The air holidays and flights in this brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 2618.