Adagio - 2023 Holidays

Explore your surroundings in the most relaxing way imaginable on foot...

Holidays worth taking yourtime over

Kingdom

Canterbury & Kent

Exploring Devon & Cornwall

The Isles of Scilly

The Isle of Wight

Northumberland’s Coast & Castles

Durham, Land of the Prince Bishops

South Downs Discovery

The Jewel of the Cotswolds

Coast & Country Houses of Norfolk

Royal Aberdeenshire

The Scottish Borders

The Outer Hebrides

Gardens of the Channel Islands

Spain & Portugal

Loire – Châteaux & Vineyards, France

Postcards From Provence, France

Cézanne’s Provence, France

La Belle France, France

Rocamadour, France

Vall de Boi, Spain

Picnic in the Pyrenees, Spain

Flavours of Hidden Spain, Spain

Discover the Rías Baixas, Spain

Catalan Explorer, Spain

A Castle in Catalonia, Spain

Hidden Gems of Andalucía, Spain

Jerez & Los Pueblos Blancos, Spain

Menorca Poc a Poc, Spain

The Algarve & Andalucía, Portugal & Spain

Medieval Portugal, Portugal

Tuscany’s Treasures

Sights & Delights of Umbria

Artistic Umbria

Lake Como Gardens & Villas

Bologna – La Grassa

The Delightful Dolomites

Dobbiaco & the Tre Cime

Montalbano’s Sicily

A Greek Experience

An Ionian Jewel

Austria, Belgium & Sweden

The Lazy Alps, Switzerland

A Swiss Summer, Switzerland

Zermatt & the Mighty Matterhorn, Switzerland

The Zugspitz Arena, Austria

Zell Am See, Austria

Belgium's Villages, Fens & Abbeys, Belgium

Summer Days in Stockholm, Sweden

Adagio holidays

Plus holidays

Welcome to the charm of Adagio

When you choose our characterful holidays with Adagio, you choose a more relaxing way to explore. One where we have perfected the art of taking our time. Embracing the simple pleasure of having a moment or two to engage with everything that surrounds us. To make more meaningful connections with local people, culture, customs, and cuisine, so you can enjoy a more authentic holiday experience with time to relax, reflect, and reconnect at your own pace.

Quality over quantity

We don’t rush from place to place, getting hung up on seeing every sight in the guide book. We simply press the pause button. Why rush? There’s so much more to see when you let the world gently unfold right in front of you. Whether that’s watching the local fishermen land the catch of the day, sipping coffee with the locals in a town square, or waking up to the sound of waves lapping at the shore, with Adagio there’s always time to enjoy the view.

Strolling on foot, under the guidance of your Adagio leader, we explore in small intimate groups. You can meander through some of Europe’s timeless cities, savouring the sight of formidable fortresses, captivating cathedrals, and winding lanes. Head out into the countryside for landscapes of terraced vineyards, flourishing forests, and imposing mountain peaks. And of course, enjoy stunning scenery with a selection of holidays closer to home in the UK. This philosophy of slow travel is relaxing for you and respectful to local life. With Adagio, it’s as much about the journey as it is the destination.

One step at a time

The world is better seen on foot, and with each of our holidays being truly unique, the amount of ambling involved will depend on the holiday you choose. Whether you’re wandering through chocolate-box villages in France, strolling through unspoilt countryside in Switzerland, or weaving your way past resplendent architecture in Italy, it’s all done at a relaxed pace.

More active?

Our Adagio Plus holidays are great if you’re seeking a more active holiday experience, with a slightly more challenging terrain, but still wish to keep the essence of our easygoing pace.

‘Adagio

Amble through our brochure to discover more and visit us online…

A perfect blend of ingredients for exploring gently

We want to make your holiday with us the best you have ever had. That’s why we go that extra mile to ensure everything is just as it should be, and our passion for travel-rich experiences shines with every step you take. It’s the Adagio difference and what keeps our customers coming back for more.

Small welcoming groups & experienced tour leaders

On an Adagio holiday, the showing is telling, as we take you on a journey of discovery. From the quaint villages and captivating coastline surrounding the UK to the sweeping lakeside towns and snow-capped mountain hamlets of Europe, we’ll help you to discover each destination at a more leisurely pace. Sharing experiences with others simply makes travel more memorable, and our holidays have a great mix of people looking for discovery and camaraderie. Travelling in small groups, enjoying the infectious enthusiasm and dinner table conversation of your companions, being able to walk away from the crowds, and see the world as a local, makes the experience so much better.

Handpicked hotels & mouth-watering meals

We choose hotels with charm and character. For us it’s the welcome and atmosphere that are the most important. As for the food… well that’s what you travel for isn’t it?

We aim to seek out authentic cuisine wherever we go, from local restaurants to side street tavernas. Put these together and you have the perfect blend of ingredients for a great holiday.

Inspiring itineraries

Every holiday has a carefully crafted itinerary to allow you to see and experience each destination from the inside out.

Whether strolling through the heather covered mountains of the Outer Hebrides or the most fragrant and spectacular gardens of Galicia, we venture far from the tourist trail to get more out of every destination.

Whilst we’ll do our best to make sure that everything we mention is included, the order in which we do things might change, owing to local conditions.

And if you want to do your own thing at any time, that’s also fine.

What’s included?

Almost all our holidays include flights or rail travel from the UK, airport transfers, the services of your Adagio leader, breakfast, and most (if not all) dinners and the occasional lunch.

We include as many of the local travel costs, entrance fees, tips, and local guides as we can, but we also allow for some flexibility (see page 60 Local costs and facilities).

Book with confidence

In today’s changing world, it’s good to know you’re holidaying with a safe and reliable travel partner. We’re fully bonded with and regulated by all the major travel authorities. ATOL, ABTA, and AITO ensure you get the holiday service and protection you can trust.

Our refund guarantee

If we have to cancel your holiday for any reason, we'll always do our very best to offer you an alternative date or holiday of your choice. In the unlikely event that we're unable to do this, we'd offer a full refund.

Flexible deposits

If you need to change your booking, we can transfer your deposit payment to your new booking, less any non-recoverable costs. See page 61 for more information.

Looking after you & your money

We provide a surcharge policy and with no credit or debit card fees. You can relax knowing we give you 100% financial protection. This commitment to high standards in managing all aspects of your holiday means we're by your side even if things don’t go to plan. See page 63 for full details.

100% Financial protection

All flight-inclusive bookings are protected through our ATOL membership and all other holidays are protected through ABTA.

Trusted customer service

We really value our clients’ feedback. We use Feefo, an impartial independent ratings and review platform, to provide anonymous reviews of our service and holidays. This helps us not only continuously improve our service, but also your future holidays.

Our story of ethical & responsible travel

Our parent company RWH Travel encourages us to look after our world today, for others to experience tomorrow. Our profits support charities, conservation projects, and communities in the UK and abroad.

We have invested millions of pounds to support outdoor charities, initiatives, and communities in the UK. The RHCT supports The Ramblers, and smaller charities providing outdoor experiences for the disadvantaged, disabled people, and inner-city children.

Heart & Sole

Led by our office staff, we aim to reach the heart of the communities we visit. We have donated equipment to remote village schools, helped with animal welfare, and aided places affected by natural disasters. By travelling with us, you can help make a difference too.

Walking Partnership

Sign up for the scheme, and your walking group will receive a donation every time you book a holiday with us. Remember to nominate your group each time you book. Find out more at www.thewalkingpartnership.org.uk

Small groups & great leaders, authentic experiences best shared

The best things come in small packages and our walking groups prove just that. They offer security, friendship, and a shared love for travel. And for added peace of mind, everything is taken care of thanks to the dedication and expert guidance of our Adagio leaders, so you can leave all the planning and navigation to us because it’s what we do best.

Explore in great company

Singles, couples, and friends, you’ll holiday with people from all walks of life, which makes the experience all the more interesting. By your side will be your experienced Adagio leader, who’ll share interest-packed insights and their knowledge of those all-important places to stop and admire the view or enjoy a bite to eat. Together you’ll explore hidden corners and unspoilt landscapes at a relaxed pace.

Time to discover, chat & enjoy

On an Adagio holiday you don’t just walk together, you share the experience together. From tasting world-famous wines on a beautiful vineyard tour in Provence to indulging in some Swedish fika (coffee and cakes) in a charming waterside café. In the evenings, where we take mealtimes together, perhaps amidst a beautiful backdrop of a sunny Mediterranean harbour or a lively cosmopolitan town square, the conversation is easy and flows freely. What could be better than getting to know a destination as well as each other?

Informal, relaxed & flexible

Our informal groups offer a unique way to see some of Europe’s finest places, with some flexibility too. On most tours, we give you a free day where you can enjoy some quiet time to yourself, if you so wish. And if you’re travelling solo, it doesn’t mean travelling alone, we always ensure that you’re made to feel part of the group.

Our much loved leaders

So much more than just your walking guide, our well-travelled Adagio leaders accompany you throughout your holiday and will help capture the true essence of each destination with their knowledge, stories, and insights.

Chosen for their skills and personalities, they’ll make sure everything runs smoothly and goes to plan. So rest assured, as your group discovers the best each destination has to offer, you’ll be in great company and safe hands, sharing your passion for travel with those who love to explore.

Private Group Holidays

Avril McAllister

Avril gets great enjoyment from being in the mountains, and the Adagio Plus holidays in particular provide spectacular walking in and around some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in Europe.

Rod Ellis

Rod has travelled extensively, both through his career in the Royal Air Force and his interest in sport. He’s keen to share his interest and enthusiasm for “all things outdoors”.

Jenny Parsons

As a former history teacher, Jenny enjoys the stories behind the façades. Exploring at the Adagio pace gives her the time to ponder quirky architectural features and clues that reveal life in a bygone age.

If you’re looking to organise a get together with a group of friends, members of a club, or maybe a family looking to enjoy a holiday together, we can take the strain of organising this for you. We’ll ensure everything is taken care of before and during your holiday; all you need to do is get your group on board, agree the destination and date, and then let us take care of the details.

For more information call our Private Groups Team on 01707 386723 or email groups@adagio.co.uk

Ian Foster

Ian is an enthusiastic traveller who recognises that the pace of Adagio holidays provides the time needed to really enjoy discovering the history of the fabulous places we visit.

Leonie Ewing

As a keen gardener, Leonie enjoys leading the Adagio Flowers holidays. The pace is ideal for admiring the foxgloves, smelling the roses, and chatting to the gardeners!

Peter Watts

Peter loves leading the Adagio Plus mountain tours.

He devised the Zugspitz Arena holiday in Austria which he thinks is a real winner for Adagio.

Adagio or Adagio Plus?

All Adagio holidays are designed to let you slowly immerse yourself in what is best about your destination. The history and local traditions, combined with a leisurely exploration of both the must-see and lesser-known natural and cultural highlights, as well as a relaxed enjoyment of the local food and specialities of the region are included.

We make the most of sightseeing on foot with gentle walks, city tours or strolls on easy terrain, in the surrounding countryside of your destination. If in a mountainous area, the walks will be amongst the hills rather than up and down them. Local guides, winery visits, traditional villages, and time to pause and watch the locals going about their lives are likely to feature.

Matterhorn, where you'll be whisked away by trains and cable cars to enjoy gentle walks from all altitudes. Or surround yourself by the Bernese Oberland Alps, whilst taking advantage of a network of cable cars to effortlessly access mountain trails. Plus, discover picturesque and easy alpine hiking amid backdrops of snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys in Austria’s Zugspitz Arena.

With an Adagio Plus holiday, there'll be a little more emphasis on getting out into the country. The programme will have more active content and although the walks will be on unchallenging terrain and at an undemanding pace, you’ll need to be able to walk for longer periods than on the standard Adagio holidays. For the enjoyment of all in the group, you should be able to maintain a reasonable pace whilst walking with your fellow travellers.

Benefits & rewards

Book 6 months ahead & save!

Book six months in advance or more for overseas flight or rail inclusive holidays and receive a £40 reduction per person for flight (or rail) inclusive holidays (excluding the UK and Ireland)*.

Want to get a bit more active?

If you’re seeking a more active experience, our Adagio Plus holidays are just the thing. Whilst keeping with our signature easy-going Adagio pace, they offer walks that are still leisurely, but with distances and durations that are a bit longer and terrain that is slightly more challenging.

Marvel at one of Switzerland’s most recognisable mountains, the Mighty

Loyalty Rewards Scheme

DH DH£

Adagio clients automatically benefit from our Loyalty Rewards Scheme which offers you a saving each time you book another holiday with Adagio or one of the other RWH Travel brands.

First Experience Offer

Introduce friends and family to us who have never travelled with us before and you’ll receive additional Loyalty Points against the value of their first booking. On their first experience with us they’ll also receive £50 per person discount on an overseas holiday, or for UK bookings of seven nights or more, £25 per person.

Group Reductions

We can create flexible walking programmes at special group rates.

*This reduction cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers – conditions apply.

NEW sights to see & things to try

Travelling somewhere new and opening your mind to different people, places, and cultures is what a holiday should be about. That’s why we choose our destinations carefully so we can take you to those must-see, must-do spots, but also give you time to breathe and absorb it all once you get there. Always searching for travel’s next hidden gem, this year we have added even more variety to our programme.

Ready to discover more of the UK? In England, follow in the footsteps of Chaucer’s pilgrims whilst exploring the delightful city of Canterbury and its magnificent cathedral, admire the massive biomes, indoor rainforest, and extensive outdoor gardens at the Eden Project in Cornwall. Perhaps you'd prefer to wander the banks of the River Tweed and the stunning Eildon Hills in the starkly beautiful Scottish Borders, where you can see historic Traquair House, the country’s oldest inhabited house, visited by 27 Scottish kings and queens.

Across the Channel, take a boat ride to the Algarve’s beautiful Tavira Island to stroll on one of the finest beaches in the world. Over in Tuscany, hop on a train to Lucca at the foot of the Apuan Alps to walk around the ancient town’s walls and enjoy a cooking lesson at a local farm. Plus, Spain’s province of Cádiz has lots to offer, from the equestrian arts at Fundación Real Escuela Andaluza del Arte Ecuestre to lunch in a Parador overlooking the Guadalete River.

Discover holidays that inspire your passion

At the heart of every Adagio holiday is a host of activities – from culture and flowers to food and wine – that make the most of the wonderful landscape in the destinations we visit. Our uniquely crafted holiday types offer the perfect balance of gentle exploration with opportunities to be immersed in unique experiences.

Introducing our Holiday Types

There are lots of activities that combine perfectly with walking: take your pick from our Culture, Flowers, or Food & Wine holidays – look out for holidays with the following icons.

Culture

If you’re captivated by history and the arts, these holidays will take you back in time.

Designed to dive deeper into a destination, they give you a more nuanced look at the places we visit than the average tourist would get. Sure to please anyone who enjoys sightseeing and history, our culture holidays usually include tours with a local guide.

Captivating walks and visits also take in local sites of interest, including the early Romanesque churches of Vall de Boí, Cézanne’s studio in Aix-en-Provence, and the UK’s majestic Durham Cathedral, among many others, there'll be plenty of time to absorb the natural beauty and significance of our surroundings.

Flowers

Explore an abundant array of gardens and landscapes world-renowned for their beauty.

Perfect for the seasoned garden lover and new garden enthusiast alike! On our flower itineraries, we take time to appreciate some of Mother Nature’s finest work. These unforgettable floral experiences include everything from the carefully cultivated and tended blooms in stunning public and private gardens, to the naturally colourful wildflower displays that cover national parks, coastlines, and countrysides.

Discover an unspoilt subtropical paradise on the Isles of Scilly, whilst the shores of Italy’s Lake Como are home to famous villas, with idyllic terraced gardens. We also visit numerous gardens on Guernsey, in the Channel Islands, where the land flourishes with beautiful flowers and walled gardens, as well as lining cliffside paths.

Food & Wine

See and taste your way through regions revered for their culinary and wine-making finesse.

Savour a destination’s most famous gastronomic offerings and vinos on our food and wine itineraries. We understand the pleasure gained from sampling local cuisine. That’s why these holidays boast a range of interesting tours and excursions to introduce you to beautiful lands where food and wine are a passion.

Enjoy wine and olive-oil tastings in Tuscany, a sherry-tasting in El Puerto de Santa Maria, we have a cheese-tasting in Herve, a ham-tasting in Parma, and much more. You’ll learn about the process and secrets of wine making on vineyard visits. Plus, there’s the wonderful indulgence of dining in local restaurants – places we have experienced ourselves –where you’ll delight in authentic meals and sometimes even cooking demonstrations.

Check in with our charming hand-picked hotels

Always a welcome sight at the end of a fun-filled day, our specially selected accommodation ranges from a spectacular hill-top castle and historic country houses, to luxurious spas and boutique hotels.

Providing you with the perfect retreat and complementing their beautiful locations, they offer a unique setting in which to soak up the atmosphere of your surroundings.

With their warm welcomes, fantastic levels of service, and locally sourced wines and cuisine, there really is no better place to relax and watch the sun rise or set at the start or end of the day.

See page 26

La Barbarie Hotel

The four-star La Barbarie Hotel is located in a quiet green valley in St Martins, close to one of Guernsey’s most beautiful bays. The hotel has an outdoor pool and recently refurbished restaurant and bar.

Cloître Saint-Louis

See page 28

The charming four-star Cloître Saint-Louis is located in a 16th century Jesuit monks’ cloister in the heart of Avignon. Enjoy your morning coffee in the restaurant whilst gazing into the Silver Birch courtyard.

Casa Sarasa

See page 33

Situated at the foot of the medieval hilltop village of Berdún, this hacienda-style guesthouse is beautifully renovated and furnished. The lovely garden has wonderful views over the surrounding landscape.

Parador, Cardona

The four-star Parador is located atop a hill, overlooking the town of Cardona. The hotel offers superb views and an atmospheric restaurant.

Also in our portfolio

BRING YOUR WALKING BOOTS, WE TAKE CARE OF THE REST!

The first Ramblers Walking Holidays tour was launched in 1946, and today you can choose from over 200 expertly guided holidays across six continents, designed for a wide range of walking styles and encompassing all levels of fitness.

From sightseeing strolls and lowland ambles to long-distance trails and high mountain trekking, there’s something for everyone who enjoys exploring the world on foot.

Whether you want to go to Europe, stay in the UK, or journey to the other side of the globe, you can book in confidence and be certain your safety and well-being are our top priorities.

Prices include

Flights, accommodation, most meals, most local transport, and your dedicated tour leader.

Call 01707 537 202 or visit ramblersholidays.co.uk

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

Cruise & Walk trips combine the pleasures of a guided walking holiday on board a Fred. Olsen cruise ship. All about the joy of the journey, as well as the destinations visited, just imagine exploring the world from the vantage point of a ship and sea!

Fred. Olsen’s fleet of smaller ships reach interesting places that bigger cruise ships often cannot, and once there, you get to explore these wonderful new ports with our expertly guided walking itineraries – all included.

Prices include

Overseas flights, accommodation, most meals, walking programmes ashore, and your dedicated tour leader.

Call 01707 537 203 or visit cruiseandwalk.co.uk

Canterbury

Canterbury & Kent

Follow in the footsteps of Chaucer’s pilgrims and modern-day tourists to discover the delightful city of Canterbury in the Garden of England. Dominating the city is its magnificent cathedral, one of the city’s three World Heritage Sites and which, as the headquarters of the Church of England, was influential in the expansion of British culture and the English language around the globe. Originally dating back to Roman times, Canterbury’s medieval past can still be seen in its quaint narrow streets. The historic city is an ideal centre for our explorations of the weald and coast in one of the most fertile counties in Britain.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We arrive at Canterbury’s Hampton by Hilton Hotel and meet up for an initial briefing before dinner.

Day 2 After breakfast, we meet our Blue Badge Guide for a morning walk around Canterbury. The old town, contained within the city walls, is compact and easily explored on foot. This afternoon, after an included visit to the cathedral, our Adagio leader will offer a local walk to explore further, or you may prefer to visit some of the city’s many cultural attractions.

Day 3 Today we leave Canterbury for some sea air, taking the public bus to Sandwich. We stroll around the town before walking out past the famous golf course and through the Sandwich Bird Observatory.

Day 4 We have private transport to Leeds Castle, with plenty of time to explore the building, which is steeped in history. The grounds are beautifully laid out and offer a pleasant stroll through varied terrain.

Day 5 Today we take the train to Ramsgate and explore the town and tunnels, where we learn about underground living during World War II. Then we have a lovely stroll along the cliff path to Broadstairs, where Charles Dickens was a frequent visitor, followed perhaps by a paddle on the sandy beach.

Day 6 Our holiday has sadly come to an end and departure is after breakfast.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay in the Hampton by Hilton Hotel, located within Canterbury’s ancient city walls. It’s a short stroll away from restaurants, cafés, shops, and bars. Our en suite rooms have all modern conveniences. We dine at the hotel for breakfast and dinner, where we can expect traditional dishes made from fresh, locally sourced produce. On the last night, dinner is planned in the rooftop restaurant with views over the city and cathedral.

CANTERBURY & KENT

5 NIGHTS

Prices from £825

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • Visit Leeds Castle

• Guided tour of Canterbury • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Stone Bay, Broadstairs

Hampton by Hilton Canterbury

Exploring Devon & Cornwall

Devon and Cornwall are two truly exceptional counties in the UK. From our base in the maritime city of Plymouth, beautifully situated on the mouth of the River Tamar, we explore its maritime history, starting with a guided tour of the town with a Blue Badge Guide and a local walk. We take the ferry out to Edgcumbe Park, where the views across the harbour justify the trip for its own sake, and the park itself is well worth the visit. Heading further afield, private transport will take us for a day at the Eden Project, a beautiful global garden that transformed a barren landscape. Finally, we explore Totnes, a very different place from Plymouth, with its new age influences and ancient history coexisting very comfortably.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 Travel independently to the New Continental Hotel, where you’ll be greeted by your Adagio leader and enjoy dinner with your fellow holidaymakers.

Day 2 After breakfast, we’ll meet our Blue Badge Guide for a morning walk around Plymouth. The pace will be relaxed, and the information imparted fascinating. We’ll have a coffee stop en route. This afternoon, our Adagio leader will offer a local walk to explore further, but you may prefer to visit some of Plymouth’s cultural attractions. Dinner is at the hotel.

Day 3 We take the ferry across the estuary to Edgcumbe Park. From here, we explore the house and walk the grounds, enjoying the superb views of Brunel’s iconic Tamar Bridge.

Day 4 Today, private transport takes us for a day at the Eden Project. This multi award-winning global garden deserves a day.

Day 5 We take a short walk to the train station to take the train to Totnes. Totnes is a fascinating town which offers history and eco credentials in spades. We have the morning to explore the town and can enjoy a stroll in the local countryside this afternoon, before taking the train back to Plymouth.

Day 6 Our holiday has sadly come to an end. We hope you have enjoyed your holiday and look forward to welcoming you back soon.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

Plymouth’s largest independent and family-owned hotel, New Continental Hotel, is ideally located in the heart of the city. Surrounded by iconic architectural and cultural landmarks and Plymouth’s sensational attractions and events, the New Continental Hotel is in the perfect location to explore Britain’s Ocean City. There’s a restaurant where we take breakfast and evening meals, as well as a bar and lounge to have an after-dinner drink.

EXPLORING DEVON & CORNWALL

5 NIGHTS

Prices from £770

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • Guided tour of Plymouth • Entrance to the Eden Project • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Eden Project

Edgcumbe Ancient Folly

The Isles of Scilly

The warm waters of the Gulf Stream ensure the Scilly Islands have an exceptionally mild climate and their relative remoteness has an Englishness of a bygone age in an unspoilt sub-tropical paradise. The Scillies in their entirety, have been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and much of the landscape is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. We’ll spend our days exploring the islands, including St Mary’s, the largest of the five inhabited islands, where our hotel is located.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 Flying into St Mary’s and travelling the short distance by coach to our hotel in Hugh Town, we can take a short introductory walk of the local area.

Day 2 Today we take our time to discover the delights of Hugh Town before we stroll around the headland to the old town. We may also have time to go across the island to Halangy Down Iron Age Village.

Day 3 The tiny island of Bryher is exposed to the Atlantic breakers on its western edge and has peaceful sandy beaches on the east.

Day 4 Abbey Gardens on the island of Tresco are a highlight of today. The mild climate and absence of frosts allows an amazing variety of plants to flourish here.

Day 5 St Agnes is the most south westerly inhabited landmass in the British Isles and is wholly unspoilt and astonishingly peaceful. You may want to bring binoculars for a boat trip to the Western Rocks. There’ll be a guide from the Isle of Scilly Wildlife Trust aboard. You may see seals, dolphins, and puffins in season.

Day 6 St Martin’s lies to the north of St Mary’s and the boat ride between is perhaps the most scenic. The local beaches are the best in the Scillies. Whilst here, we have a tour of the vineyard followed by wine-tasting.

Day 7 Depart after breakfast, and we travel to St Mary’s Airport for the return flight.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included. The order of the island visits is flexible and may change from described above depending on local boat availability.

Hotel & Meals

We’ll stay on a half board basis in the very comfortable and recently refurbished three-star Tregarthen’s Hotel, which has the most stunning setting of any hotel on St Mary’s, situated right by the water’s edge and a short distance from the quay. Please note that bedrooms with a sea view are available at a premium, otherwise we cannot guarantee a room with a view. We include dinner each evening in the hotel’s popular restaurant with its incredible views across the islands, where we’ll enjoy homemade dishes using local produce wherever possible.

THE ISLES OF SCILLY 6 NIGHTS

Prices from £1,480

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from Land’s End to St Marys • Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Tregarthen’s Hotel

Isles of Scilly

St Mary’s Old Town Beach

The Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is a walker’s paradise, with over half of it being designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Although it’s only 23 miles from west to east and 13 miles north to south, there are over 500 miles of marked footpaths, and the landscape of the whole island is ideal for exploration on foot.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 Travel to the Isle of Wight to the New Holmwood Hotel in Cowes. There’ll be an orientation walk around Cowes in the afternoon.

Day

2 We enjoy a stroll along Cowes waterfront before taking the chain ferry to East Cowes, where we catch a public bus to Osborne House, the former holiday home of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. We spend time exploring this magnificent, extensive estate and the beautiful Osborne Bay. We return to Cowes the same way.

Day 3 A transfer takes us to the historic harbour of Yarmouth. We follow a route along the River Yar and a disused railway, with panoramic views of the Yar Estuary, before finishing at the tranquil nature reserve at Freshwater Bay.

Day 4 We spend a day exploring the Isle of Wight with visits to Newport to see Carisbrooke Castle, Godshill Village, and its medieval architecture, the beautiful Ventnor Botanical Gardens, and the village of Bembridge.

Day 5 A boat takes us to the glorious Alum Bay. A cable car whisks us up the cliffs to Alum Bay village, where we follow a panoramic trail along the dramatic coast to Freshwater Bay.

Day 6 We cruise along the relaxing River Medina to the charming town of Newport. We have time to explore before taking a leisurely trail along the River Medina back to Cowes.

Day 7 Today we spend time exploring the Newtown National Nature Reserve and old town, a perfect place for bird watching. A trail along the coastline takes us back to Cowes for some free time.

Day 8 Departure is after breakfast.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included, excluding Osborne House, Carisbrooke Castle, and Newtown National Nature Reserve (free of charge to English Heritage Members and National Trust Members). Ferry crossings aren’t included in the holiday charge due to a wide range of choice of ferry routes and sailing times. Arrival and departure transfers aren’t included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay half board at the New Holmwood Hotel. Breakfast and dinner are taken in the hotel’s restaurant, which offers sea views. Rooms are contemporary in style and offer comfortable facilities.

THE ISLE OF WIGHT

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1210

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • Entrance to Godshill Model Village and Ventnor Botanic Gardens • Cable car ride at Alum Bay • Two boat rides • All local transport costs

Months of travel

The Needles

Godshill Model Village

New Holmwood

Northumberland’s Coast & Castles

Northumberland’s unique collection of gardens and castles is a real delight, together with the wonderful heritage coastline. We stay in the heart of the region, a short drive from the Northumberland National Park, perfectly located for exploring. With so many gardens and castles to choose from, we have chosen a select few together with short walks each day to really appreciate this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 Arrive at the Macdonald Linden Hall Hotel, where you’ll be greeted by your Adagio leader.

Day 2 Enjoy refreshments at the Earl Grey Tea House at Howick Hall Gardens together, with a walk around the gardens and extensive grounds. We’ll walk along the coastal path until we reach the picturesque fishing port of Craster, with stunning views of Dunstanburgh Castle. This walk has been nominated as one of the top 100 walks in the country, it’s easy to see why!

Day 3 Arrive in Alnwick to spend time at your leisure visiting Alnwick Castle. Your entrance ticket also allows you to visit The Alnwick Garden, where a garden tour may be available. If time allows, you can spend some time enjoying the historic market town and perhaps visit the popular Barter Books.

Day 4 We start the day in Bamburgh village and spend time visiting Bamburgh Castle. The afternoon is spent on the coast, where you’ll walk along the huge stretch of sandy beach between the village of Bamburgh, with views of the iconic Bamburgh Castle to Seahouses, a gateway to the Farne Islands. You’ll take in the outstanding views, crashing waves, and big skies as you reach the harbour. The coastline is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Day 5 The day will be spent at the National Trust property of Wallington, where your Adagio leader will provide a guided circular walk in the large grounds. There are tea rooms, a shop, a spectacular walled garden with a glass house, and the main house with various collections. A one-hour tour of the gardens will be arranged if available.

Day 6 Your holiday comes to an end and your Adagio leader wishes you farewell after a leisurely breakfast.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees stated above are included (except for Wallington, which is free for National Trust members).

Hotel & Meals

We stay at the four-star Macdonald Linden Hall Hotel in Longhorsley, near Morpeth. It nestles in 450 acres of private grounds and features a golf course, tennis court, indoor pool, sauna, gym, and spa treatment rooms. Dinner will be taken in the award-winning AA Rosette hotel restaurant.

NORTHUMBERLAND’S COAST & CASTLES

5 NIGHTS

Prices from £1090

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Bamburgh Castle

Alnwick Castle

Linden Hall Hotel

Durham, Land of the Prince Bishops

Durham is home to one of the most recognisable landmarks in the UK, the majestic Durham Cathedral. Together with Durham Castle, this UNESCO World Heritage Site forms one of the most stunning city panoramas in Europe. We spend three days exploring the medieval city and its riverside footpaths, as well as visiting Bishop Auckland and the Beamish Industrial Museum.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 Arrive at the Durham Marriott Hotel Royal County, where you’ll be greeted by your Adagio leader.

Day 2 After a hearty breakfast, we explore the main city centre on foot with a local guide before visiting Durham Cathedral and its Open Treasure exhibition, the UK’s most intact medieval monastic buildings, and their history.

Day 3 The Bishop’s Palace at Bishop Auckland is a must. After lunch, we’ll have time to stroll through the beautiful Deer Park or visit the Mining Art Gallery.

Day 4 Waterfalls are the theme for today as we walk between High and Low Force which you may have seen recently in the 2020 blockbuster WWI film, “1917”. In the morning, we take a guided tour of The Bowes Museum at Barnard Castle, with its extensive collection of paintings and curios. It’s an excellent place to enjoy lunch.

Day 5 Another day without transport as we walk straight from our hotel for riverbank views along the River Wear before taking a guided tour of Durham Castle.

Day 6 Today we discover a little more of Durham’s industrial history as we wander the grounds and reconstructed buildings of Beamish Museum.

Day 7 On our final day, we walk from our hotel through some bluebell woods to visit Durham’s Botanical Gardens, where we’re joined by an onsite gardener. We finish the day walking back to the hotel.

Day 8 Our holiday comes to an end, and your Adagio leader wishes you farewell after a leisurely breakfast.

All local transport costs and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

The Durham Marriott Hotel Royal County is located within the historic city centre of Durham, on the banks of the River Wear. Scenic views of the river, Durham Castle, and a view of Durham Cathedral can be enjoyed. Hearty breakfast and dinners are included and are taken at the hotel.

DURHAM, LAND OF THE PRINCE BISHOPS 7 NIGHTS

Prices from £915

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Durham Cathedral

Low Force Waterfall

The Durham Marriott Hotel Royal County

South Downs Discovery

The South Downs is England’s newest national park, stretching from Hampshire to East Sussex with over 2000 miles of footpaths, byways, and bridleways, it’s a walking paradise. Pristine dramatic coastlines, pretty villages, rolling chalk hills, ancient woodland, and glorious cities, the South Downs is the ideal place to unwind and rediscover the beauty of the UK.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 Arrive at the Norfolk Arms in Arundel. An afternoon orientation walk of Arundel will be led by your Adagio leader.

Day 2 We transfer to the pretty village of Bosham in Chichester Harbour, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty home to a variety of birds and is a popular place for photographers and nature lovers. Our trail continues to Chichester, where we discover the heart of the city.

Day 3 We spend the day in Arundel, visiting the Arundel Museum followed by Arundel Castle.

Day 4 Our walk will take us through peaceful marshlands and pastures before gently ascending to a viewpoint at Seaford Head Nature Reserve, from which the most spectacular panoramic views of the famous Seven Sisters rise majestically from the deep blue sea below.

Day 5 Today we discover the Weald & Downland Living Museum, which has now become famous for the BBC’s “Repair Shop” TV series. We take a short transfer across to the picturesque West Dean Gardens, a scenic and rejuvenated historic garden.

Day 6 Our holiday has sadly come to an end, and departure is after breakfast.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay in the charming and traditional Norfolk Arms Hotel, located in the centre of Arundel. This Georgian style inn is a short stroll away from restaurants, cafés, shops, and bars. We stay in en suite rooms, and although the rooms are small with low ceilings, they have been recently refurbished with a charming and cosy atmosphere. We dine at the hotel for breakfast and dinner where we can expect delicious home-cooked and traditional dishes made from fresh, locally sourced produce. An afternoon tea is also included one afternoon in Arundel

SOUTH DOWNS DISCOVERY

5 NIGHTS

Prices from £895

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • An afternoon tea in Arundel

• Entrance to the Weald & Downland Museum

• All local transport costs

Months of travel

Arundel Castle

Chichester Harbour

Norfolk Arms Hotel

The Jewel of the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, covering almost 800 square miles through the five counties of Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, and Worcestershire. The 3000 mile network of footpaths takes us through this region of classic English countryside; rolling flower-filled meadows, green luscious valleys, woodland, and picturesque honey-coloured English villages, making the Cotswolds an ideal centre to quietly explore.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 Travel independently to the Wroxton House Hotel where you’ll be greeted by your Adagio leader and enjoy dinner with your fellow holidaymakers.

Day

2 A coach takes us to the charming village of Stow on the Wold, where we have time for exploration before taking a scenic walk to beautiful Bourton on the Water, famed as the “Venice of the Cotswolds”. We pass through the scenic honey-coloured stone village, Lower Slaughter.

Day 3 We spend the morning at the Batsford Arboretum and Garden Centre, which has an impressive collection of flora displayed throughout the four seasons. We then walk along a section of the Diamond Way, a longdistance path in the Cotswolds, to the idyllic village of Adelstrop, which Jane Austen frequently visited. We continue to Daylesford House, famed for its organic farm produce.

Day 4 Our morning starts in the pretty medieval town of Chipping Campden where we visit a silversmiths and get the opportunity to speak to one of the artisans who’ll explain work processes, talk about commissions, and show us the works in progress. We then walk along the Cotswold Way and the Mile Drive to Broadway for afternoon cream tea.

Day 5 We transfer to Stanway, a serene village, where we take a guided tour of Stanway House and its picturesque grounds. A coach takes us along a scenic route to the romantic Sudeley Castle, known as the Queen’s Castle.

Day 6 Today we say farewell to the jewel that is the Cotswolds.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay on a half board basis at the Wroxton House Hotel, located on the outskirts of Wroxton village, close to Banbury. Rooms are contemporary in style, and the hotel offers free car parking. We include breakfast and dinner in the hotel’s restaurant. Tea and cake is included at Stanway House, and a cream tea is included during our visit to Broadway.

THE JEWEL OF THE COTSWOLDS

5 NIGHTS

Prices from £880

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • Guided tour at Stanway House and Gardens followed by tea and cake

• Small afternoon tea in Broadway on one day

• All local transport costs

Months of travel

Walking the Cotswold Way

Chipping Campden

Wroxton

Coast & Country Houses of Norfolk

Gentle walking combined with coastal views, visits to grand stately homes, and National Trust properties all feature in this holiday. With so many places of interest in north Norfolk, we have designed a holiday with short walks and visits to country houses in mind. The walks are set within an easy, rolling landscape, and you’ll be rewarded with lasting memories at the end of each day.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 Travel to The Pheasant Hotel, where you’ll be greeted by your Adagio leader and enjoy dinner with your fellow holidaymakers. We’ll offer a short walk mid-afternoon from the hotel to the coastal path.

Day 2 This morning we travel to Beeston Regis to start our walk to the 17th century National Trust house of Felbrigg Hall to visit the hall, walled garden, and parkland. In the afternoon, walk to the seaside town of Cromer for some free time to explore, take a walk on the pier, or even climb the 172 steps to the top of Norfolk’s tallest church tower.

Day 3 A private coach takes us to Blickling Estate for a morning walk around the lake and park. You can join the morning garden tour if available if you’d like to learn about the gardens. There’ll be some free time to take a look around the Jacobean Blickling Hall before our coach takes us back to the hotel.

Day 4 We’re able to walk direct from the hotel to the National Trust property of Sheringham Park with time to wander the park and woodland gardens with their 80 species of rhododendrons and azaleas. We finish the day by walking to Sheringham before returning to the hotel.

Day 5 Private transport takes us to Wells-next-the-Sea where we’ll have time to explore before our walk to Holkham beach; one of the most unspoilt and beautiful stretches of sand in the country. We’ll then take a short walk through the Deer Park to the 18th century Palladian mansion, Holkham Hall.

Day 6 Our holiday comes to an end, and departure is after breakfast.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included (except for Felbrigg Hall and Blickling Estate which are free for National Trust members).

Hotel & Meals

We stay on a half board basis at The Pheasant Hotel, a charming country house hotel set in its own extensive grounds. The hotel is situated in a peaceful rural location in the small village of Kelling, surrounded by two acres of landscaped gardens. All bedrooms are comfortable and contemporary, with the facilities you would expect from a four-star hotel. We include dinner each evening in the AA Rosette Garden Room Restaurant, which prides itself on serving dishes using fresh, local produce.

COAST & COUNTRY HOUSES OF NORFOLK

5 NIGHTS

Prices from £1040

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • Private coach transport to and from the trailheads when necessary

Months of travel

Blickling

Royal Aberdeenshire

Beaches, mountains, castles, coastal paths, forest trails, panoramic viewpoints, waterfalls, cities, picturesque villages, a whiskey distillery, sea air, seals, dolphins, red squirrels, rare birds, fine art, great food, and a lovely hotel. This holiday has something for everybody! Based in historic Aberdeen city, we have two days and a professional guide to explore here and Old Aberdeen. We’ll also see some of the finest scenery in Britain whilst walking paths around Balmoral Estate, to the dramatically located Dunnottar Castle and amongst the sand dunes at Forvie National Nature Reserve.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We arrive from various regional destinations at the Sandman Hotel in Aberdeen, where our Adagio leader greets us before dinner.

Day 2 After breakfast, we meet our Green Badge Guide for a half-day tour walking through Aberdeen city. In the afternoon, we explore the Maritime Museum and recently reopened Art Gallery, Aberdeen’s crowning glory.

Day 3 We head to Newburgh on the banks of the River Ythan. From here, we walk to Forvie National Nature Reserve. Look out for seals, dolphins, and eider ducks. Afterwards, we continue to the picturesque village of Collieston.

Day 4 Today we venture to Crathie before setting off on the Balmoral Cairns trail through the grounds of Balmoral. After the walk, we visit the Royal Lochnagar Distillery for a tour and whisky-tasting, followed by a stop in Ballater.

Day 5 We meet our Green Badge Guide again for a half-day tour of Old Aberdeen. Highlights include, the university, botanic gardens, and St Machar’s Cathedral. We finish with a stroll through Seaton Park, followed by a visit to the Brig o’ Balgownie.

Day 6 We make our way to Crathes Castle and its beautifully restored gardens. Look out for red squirrels. We continue to Banchory town, stop at the Falls of Feugh, and walk up to Scolty Tower for magnificent views.

Day 7 On our final day we start at Stonehaven, to walk along the seafront and the boardwalk. Then we head south, climbing up to reach its First World War Memorial and continue to Dunnottar Castle, an imposing medieval fortress situated upon a rocky headland.

Day 8 Our holiday comes to an end, and we return to the airport or train station for our journey home.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

Located in one of Aberdeen’s most historic buildings, the beautifully appointed Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel & Spa is one of the most luxurious places to stay in the city. Centrally located, it’s just a five-minute walk from the main shopping area. We’ll eat in the hotel every day, enjoying full buffet breakfasts and three-course dinners.

ROYAL ABERDEENSHIRE

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1175

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Aberdeen • Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • All local transport costs

Prices include flights, however the holiday is also available without flights as you may prefer to take the stunningly scenic train ride up the east coast.

Months of travel

Crathes Castle and Gardens

Stonehaven

Sandman Hotel

The Scottish Borders

This was always bandit country, the Scottish Borders caught between the generally warring Scots and English. It’s easy to see why such beautiful countryside would be coveted. Melrose and its abbey are an outstanding attraction. Various gardens, Dawyck being the most famous, have thrived in the valleys. We’ll visit some and enjoy the scenery around us on gentle walks. We stay at the Tontine Hotel, centrally located in the appealing town of Peebles. The hotel enjoys an enviable reputation for food and hospitality. Peebles, set on the banks of the River Tweed, is a lovely little town, compact but full of interest. During our holiday, we enjoy a mix of religious and secular culture, as well as the gentle countryside. The land is formed by steep-sided valleys, so we’ll generally keep to the valleys and enjoy riverside strolls.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 Arrive at the hotel. We’ll meet up for an initial briefing before dinner.

Day 2 After breakfast, we’ll meet our local guide for a morning walk around Peebles. We can get a very good flavour of the town with our local guide. This afternoon we head out of town to explore Dawyck Botanic Garden. Dinner is in the hotel.

Day 3 Today we visit in and around Melrose. On the way, we make a stop in Galashiels to have a look at the impressive Great Tapestry. In Melrose, we’ll explore the ruined abbey, probably the most impressive of the border country abbeys, and local gardens with a short stroll.

Day 4 Today we travel into Edinburgh, only 22 miles but a world away from border country. We’ll have a guided tour in the morning before some free time in the afternoon. Whether art, architecture, history, food shopping, or anything else is your passion, Edinburgh can cater for your tastes.

Day 5 We start with a gentle walk along the River Tweed, before taking public transport to Innerleithen and walking the short distance to Traquair House, thought to be the oldest continually inhabited house in Scotland. The house has had the same family ownership (the Maxwell Stuarts) since 1491. We’ll see the house, impressive gardens, and possibly the brewery they run in the grounds.

Day 6 Our holiday has sadly come to an end and departure is after breakfast.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay in the Tontine Hotel located in the centre of Peebles. The hotel is a short stroll away from restaurants, cafés, shops, and bars. We stay in en suite rooms with all expected facilities. We dine at the hotel for breakfast and dinner where we can sample traditional dishes made from fresh, locally sourced produce.

THE SCOTTISH BORDERS

5 NIGHTS

Prices from £850

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

• Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel

• Entrance to Dawyck Gardens, Melrose Abbey, and Traquair House

• Guided tours of Peebles and Edinburgh • All local transport costs

Months of travel

River Tweed at Peebles

Edinburgh

Tontine Hotel

The Outer Hebrides

Situated on Europe’s Atlantic edge, the Scottish Western Isles of the Outer Hebrides are a diverse set of interconnected islands. The third largest island in the British Isles is the Isle of Lewis and Harris; one island but vastly different landscapes, from immense white beaches to heather covered mountains, lunarlike boulder-strewn hillsides, to sea and freshwater lochs and peatlands.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 Fly from the mainland and arrive in the harbour town of Stornoway, the main entry point to Lewis and Harris. We transfer to our hotel, from where we can explore the charm of the town.

Day 2 We drive to the Butt of Lewis, for a walk round the cliffs past Stevenson’s lighthouse. We drive down the west coast to the Ness Historical Society Museum to visit a restored traditional 17th century blackhouse. We finish the day with a visit to view the impressive Callanish Standing Stones, known as the Stonehenge of the north.

Day 3 We go on a morning walk in the wooded grounds of Lews Castle for fine views over Stornoway and beyond to the sea. You’ll have time to visit the museum and have some free time in Stornoway.

Day 4 Today we leave Lewis and transfer to the more mountainous Isle of Harris, viewing the Uig peninsula en route. We walk through Gleann Lacasdail, past the loch on the way into Tarbert.

Day 5 Explore the island of Scalpay and take a walk to Eilean Glas Lighthouse, where we’ll view the Isle of Skye and have the chance to see minke whales. We return to Tarbert to visit the gin distillery and the tweed warehouse.

Day 6 We travel west for the day to the remote hamlet of Huisinis taking in two short walks; one to the eagle observatory and the other to a spot overlooking vast sandy beaches and the uninhabited Isle of Scarp.

Day 7 Travel around South Harris viewing the different scenery from east to west. We’ll visit St Clement’s Church at Rodel. After lunch, we follow this with a drive along the Golden Road through the Bays area with basking seals.

Day 8 Return to the Isle of Lewis and depart from Stornoway for our flight back to the mainland.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

The hotels we have chosen offer traditional Hebridean hospitality and are located perfectly for our itinerary. The first three nights are spent at either the Cabarfeidh Hotel or Caladh Inn (both in Stornoway and date dependant). The remainder of the holiday is based at the Hotel Hebrides in Tarbert. Breakfast and dinner are taken in the hotels.

THE OUTER HEBRIDES

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1795

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from Glasgow to Stornaway • Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • All local transport costs

Months of travel

The Cabarfeidh

Callanish Stones

Iron Age House on Isle of Lewis

Gardens of the Channel Islands

garden

You’ll not only enjoy the stunning scenery and Heritage Sites of Guernsey, but we’re also close enough to visit Sark and Herm spending a day on each. Having one of the best sunshine records in the British Islands, plants from around the world thrive here. Each season brings its own speciality. You’ll have the chance to visit public and private gardens, see wildflowers lining cliff paths and lanes, and discover each of the islands’ natural beauty.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Guernsey and travel by coach to our hotel in the parish of St Martin. You can join your Adagio leader for a pre-dinner stroll to the cliff path for superb views of the island.

Day 2 A local walk in St Martin to Sausmarez Manor, one of Guernsey’s most interesting and beautiful attractions.

There’ll be time to enjoy the sub-tropical garden at your own pace before a visit to the oldest known heated glasshouses in the British Islands at Candie Gardens.

Day 3 Travel by ferry to the Island of Herm, where we visit the gardens independently. If available, we’ll arrange for the Head Gardener to provide a tour of the gardens. There’ll be an optional island walk after lunch.

Day 4 Another ferry ride to the Isle of Sark for a guided tour through La Seigneurie Gardens, which have been described as some of the finest formal gardens in the Channel Islands.

Day 5 We’ll walk in the Parish of Castel through the Saumarez Park Nature Trail and visit Saumarez Park for a guided visit to the Victorian Walled Garden, with the option to visit the folk museum.

Day 6 Enjoy a gentle walk on the Island’s north east coast – great views and fantastic wildflowers. We finish the day with a visit to Castle Cornet where you can explore the battlements and enjoy the views towards the other islands.

Day 7 We travel to Guernsey Airport for the return flight.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay on a half board basis in the very comfortable and intimate, four-star La Barbarie Hotel in St Martin; a quiet green valley close to one of Guernsey’s most beautiful beaches. The heated swimming pool and patio area provide a lovely spot for a quiet drink before dinner.

GARDENS OF THE CHANNEL ISLANDS

6 NIGHTS

Prices from £1510

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from Southampton to Guernsey

• Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • One packed lunch provided by the hotel on Day 2 • All local transport costs

Months of travel

La Barbarie

Guernsey’s South Coast

La Seigneurie Gardens, Sark

Loire

Châteaux & Vineyards

Chinon is on the River Vienne, a few miles of gently meandering curves away from where it meets the Loire. Here are cream-coloured stone buildings, turrets, half-timbered façades, and riverside promenades. This is the rich land of food and wine, of castles and kings, producing some of the Loire’s best wine. Picturesque strolls of up to six miles between ancient villages allow us to explore this enchanting area of France.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 Travel by train to Tours via Paris, continuing to Chinon by road.

Day 2 We take a tour through the old town of Chinon. Following a leisurely lunch, we visit the Forteresse Royale on a bluff above the town, with some of the best views in the Loire Valley.

Day 3 For the early risers, why not visit the local market before we start at the mushroom cellars in Montsoreau, then walk to Candes-St-Martin, one of the most attractive villages in France. We continue the short distance to Fontevrauld Abbey, burial place of Plantagenet kings.

Day 4 In the morning, we catch the train to Azay-le-Rideau where we visit its romantic castle. We pass troglodyte houses as we walk to Villaines-les-Rochers, Europe’s only wicker-weaving centre.

Day 5 Our morning walk takes us from Chinon past a frescoed troglodyte chapel and through vineyards to Cravantles-Côteaux. We have now reached the halfway point of our time in Chinon, so we’ll take the afternoon to enjoy the local area at leisure.

Day 6 After breakfast, we drive to the Sleeping Beauty castle of Ussé and walk along the River Indre to Rivarennes where there’s the rather unusual museum of preserved pears.

Day 7 Today we visit the gardens at the Châteaux of Villandry. The gardens are truly a wondrous sight with an extensive array of formal planted vegetables and flowers. After lunch, we depart for the outskirts of Chinon to mark the end of our holiday by sampling some of the region’s famous wines.

Day 8 Returning to Tours, we catch the train back to London via Paris.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay in the delightful family-run Hotel Diderot. Well placed in the town of Chinon, it provides easy access to many restaurants, bars, and cafés. The town is a lovely place for a stroll after an enjoyable day of sightseeing or for a relaxed drink in the evening. Breakfasts are taken in the hotel and we also include five dinners in the holiday cost, all of which are taken in local restaurants. Dinner on two evenings isn’t included to allow for you to explore dining options independently.

LOIRE – CHÂTEAUX & VINEYARDS

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1525

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return rail from London St Pancras to Tours with Eurostar and SNCF • Train station transfers • En suite accommodation with breakfast • Dinners taken in the hotel and local restaurants

Months of travel

• All local transport costs

Hotel Diderot

Ussé Castle Indre-et-Loire

Chinon and Forteresse Royale

Postcards From Provence

Provence, the ancient Provincia Romana. This is the land of lavender and olives, of plane trees shading market squares, of popes and artists, of gypsies and troubadours. From the pretty town of Avignon, we set out each day to see the many sides of this romantic area, from the Roman remains in Arles to the wild horses, bulls, and flamingos of the Camargue.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 Travel by Eurostar to Avignon, either via Paris or Lille. It’s then a short transfer to our hotel within the city’s ramparts.

Day

2 Today a local guide takes us around Avignon, including the Palais des Papes and the Pont St Bénézet across the River Rhône, made famous by the song “Sur le Pont d’Avignon”. After lunch, we travel the short distance north to Châteauneuf-du-Pape for some wine-tasting with a local guide.

Day 3 We spend today in and around the Camargue. This area, created by the Rhône delta, is great for spotting wild horses, bulls, flamingos, and egrets. It also has two well-known small towns which we visit, the bastide town of Aigues Mortes, and the seaside village of les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a gypsy pilgrimage site.

Day 4 A free day, but Avignon is a great base from which to explore further afield. The impressive Roman ruins in Nîmes are just 30 minutes away by train, or the Roman aqueduct of the Pont du Gard can be reached by local bus.

Day 5 Visit the vibrant local market in St Rémy de Provence before a short stop at St Paul de Mausole, where Van Gogh painted many great works, and Glanum, a ruined Roman town. The highlight of the day is the village of Les Baux de Provence, from whose ruined fortified summit (esplanade) the whole of Provence seems to lie before you.

Day 6 Peter Mayle’s “A Year in Provence” and “Toujours Provence” books immortalised the Lubéron district, which we visit today with a local guide.

Day 7 Today we visit Arles, the city where Van Gogh spent the most productive months of his life. Besides the sights associated with him, there are impressive Roman ruins and quaint cobbled streets to wander.

Day 8 Today we board the train and bid au revoir to Avignon. All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

The four-star Cloître Saint-Louis in the heart of Avignon city, is a slice of luxury in Provence. Just minutes away from the Palais du Papes and a host of wonderful restaurants. The hotel restaurant is a truly wonderful place to enjoy your first morning coffee and breakfast. Dinners are included, taken either at our hotel or in local restaurants.

POSTCARDS FROM PROVENCE

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1945

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return rail from London St Pancras to Avignon with Eurostar and SNCF • Train station transfers • En suite accommodation with breakfast • Dinners taken in the hotel and local restaurants

Months of travel

• All local transport costs

Avignon Bridge with Popes Palace, Pont St Bénézet

Cloître Saint-Louis

Les Baux de Provence Village

Mont Sainte-Victoire by Paul Cézanne

Cézanne’s Provence

Cézanne once said, “When you’re born there, it’s hopeless, nothing else is good enough”, and as you walk around his birthplace, it’s clear why he was so passionate about his hometown. His whole life can be followed through the local area; where he was born, studied, worked, and eventually was buried. Incidental discoveries along our routes will etch out the journey of his paintings, from cubist works at Bibémus Quarries to the well-known landscape paintings of Mont Sainte-Victoire and Cassis Harbour. We also take time to enjoy the surrounding countryside with trips to prominent locations such as Cassis, Marseille, and Vauvenargues, the resting place of Picasso.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We get the train from London St Pancras to Aix-en-Provence. The Grand Hôtel Roi René is a short walk from the station.

Day 2 This morning, we follow in the footsteps of Paul Cézanne, discovering Aix-en-Provence with a guide and then visiting the brilliant artist’s studio in the afternoon.

Day 3 Before a walk in the local area, cubism is the artform of the day at Bibémus Quarries, the muse for some of Cézanne and other great artists’ most famous works.

Day 4 The charming fishing village of Cassis is the playground of the rich Marseilles. In the morning we take a boat ride discovering picturesque bays, pebble beaches, and crisp blue waters before our afternoon coastal walk.

Day 5 After breakfast, we head to Barrage Bimont on the local bus for a walk around its tranquil turquoise lake. In the afternoon, we have some free time to explore Aix-en-Provence further.

Day 6 A stroll around Vauvenargues encircles the famous château that was once the home and is now the resting place of Picasso.

Day 7 We board a train to magnificent Marseilles, the oldest city in France, and take our time there discovering it on foot.

Day 8 With our minds full of beautiful art, we return to the train station in Aix-en-Provence for our journey back to London.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay in the Grand Hôtel Roi René, which is a few minutes’ wander from the centre of Aix-en-Provence. Elegant and serene, the décor evokes Provence and all its charm. The contemporary-style rooms are spacious and comfortable.

We have breakfast each morning in the hotel whilst evening meals are taken in the hotel and at local restaurants.

CÉZANNE’S PROVENCE

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1975

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return rail from London St Pancras to Aix-enProvence with Eurostar and SNCF • Train station transfers

• En suite accommodation with breakfast

• Dinners taken in the hotel and local restaurants

• All local transport costs

Months of travel

Grand Hôtel Roi René

Aix-en-Provence Old Town

La Belle France

Lakes, mountains and medieval Annecy

Annecy is in so many ways the perfect holiday location. Its dazzling medieval centre is criss-crossed by canals, and the morning markets are a joy to visit. Annecy’s lakeside setting is truly magical, with the Alps of the Haute Savoie rising from the shores. Leisurely alpine walks, with spectacular views, historic lakeside castles and monasteries, a holiday to savour many of the wonders of France. One of our leaders has commented, “The resort is delightful, the hotel excellent, the excursions varied and interesting, the restaurants selected are very good – what more could one want?”

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Geneva, Switzerland, and transfer by coach to Annecy. Day 2 Browse the stalls of Annecy’s morning market and visit the old town. A relaxed stroll takes us along the lake’s picturesque shoreline.

Day 3 Travelling by coach into the mountains east of Annecy, we stop at the Col de la Forclaz, then continue to the Col de l’Aulp. Here, a wide trail heads through meadows. Take your time and enjoy the splendid views.

Day 4 Today we take the train to visit Chambéry and walk through fields and woods to Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s pretty house at Les Charmettes.

Day 5 We cross Lac d’Annecy by boat to Menthon, where a short walk brings us to the fairytale Château de Menthon-St-Bernard for a guided tour. After our visit, we rejoin the boat to continue around the lake.

Day 6 A free day to further explore Annecy’s markets and beautiful lake. You may also choose to take an optional visit to historic Aix-les-Bains.

Day 7 A coach takes us high into the Bauges Mountains for a beautiful broad flat ridge walk. Lac du Bourget is to the west, and Lac d’Annecy and spectacular Mont Blanc to the east. Don’t forget your camera!

Day 8 Departure after breakfast for Geneva Airport.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay at the delightful three-star Hotel Splendid overlooking the canal, close to the historic quarter. We enjoy breakfast taken at the hotel and five dinners in local restaurants to savour the local cuisine. Dinner on two evenings isn’t included to allow for you to explore dining options independently.

LA BELLE FRANCE

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1958

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Geneva • Airport

transfers • En suite accommodation with breakfast

• Dinners taken in local restaurants • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Church of Saint-François de Sales in Annecy

Hotel Splendid

Les Charmettes

Rocamadour

Deep in the Occitanie region of France lies a secretive gorge, home to Rocamadour, the rock shelter. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area is popular with pilgrims and is known locally as the gateway to the Dordogne. During our own wanderings, we’ll discover bastide towns, the cave drawings at Padirac, proven to be some of the oldest and most distinct in the world, as well as walking parts of the famous St James de Compostela (Camino de Santiago).

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 Arrive by train into Brive-la-Gaillarde for a short transfer to Rocamadour.

Day 2 We learn more about this dramatic town with our local guide but not before we have had a morning walk along the town’s outer footpaths to view it from a distance.

Day 3 After a hearty breakfast, we travel to Bretenoux for wonderfully varied terrain of the Occitanie countryside towards the imposing hilltop Castelnau Castle.

Day 4 The flowery hilltop village of Loubressac, one of the most beautiful villages in France, is the start of our walk past rolling green fields to Padirac. After lunch, we go underground down the Padirac Chasm (cave), an extraordinary natural phenomena.

Day 5 Today we take to the St James de Compostela as we walk from Gramat to Rocamadour, treading the same ground as pilgrims have in the years gone by. In the afternoon, there’s time to explore further on your own.

Day 6 We start our day driving to Pech-Merle caves to see paintings from as far back as 25,000BC. Images of spotted horses, reindeer, handprints, and humans. In the afternoon, we walk through to St Cirq Lapopie.

Day 7 Depart for Martel with its fairytale streets before we hop on the Haut-Quercy steam train, affectionately known as the Truffle Train, which meanders its way giving those last few panoramic views of the Dordogne Valley.

Day 8 Transfer to Brive-la-Gaillarde for our train back to the UK.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

The Hotel Restaurant Le Belvedere is perched above Rocamadour offering stunning views over the town. It offers comfortable rooms of a high standard. Guests have access to its own swimming pool located at its sister property 300 metres away. All breakfast and dinners will be served at the hotel from where you can enjoy the views. The town has all the amenities you require including cafés, shops, supermarkets, and bakeries.

ROCAMADOUR

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1495

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return rail from London St Pancras to Brive-laGaillarde with Eurostar and SNCF • Train station transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Chateau de Castelnau-Bretenoux

Rocamadour

Hotel Restaurant Le Belvedere

Vall de Boí

Surrounded by 3000m peaks, rivers, ravines, mountain lakes, and waterfalls, Vall de Boí is a walker’s paradise. With hundreds of accessible trails, it’s perfectly placed for explorations of the beautiful Aigüestortes National Park. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a set of early Catalan Romanesque churches dot the villages, and we discover them on foot.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Barcelona and transfer to Hotel Pey in the small Pyrenean village of Boí.

Day 2 After breakfast, we walk along the Water Trail to the thermal spa town of Caldes de Boí. We’ll be walking between magnificent dry-stone walls and wooden terracing and can enjoy beautiful mountain views along the route.

Day 3 Today we’ll walk along the Cami del Pago, the historical path that connects Boí to Durro.

Day 4 We take a taxi transfer to Congost de Mont-Rebei, a beautiful gorge created by the River Noguera Ribagorcana which cuts through the Sierra del Montsec mountain range. We take a short hike in the area before heading off to catch a catamaran boat in the early evening which meanders its way along the gorge. Afterwards, we head back to the hotel for a late evening dinner.

Day 5 Today is a free day and time to explore the area where you wish. Our tour leader will be able to make recommendations on local walks and activities.

Day 6 Today we have a shorter walk and a chance to relax in the lovely village of Taull. We visit the beautiful church of Sant Climent where you can experience the impressive video mapping of its Romanesque paintings. After our visit, we walk back to Boí where we have time to visit the church of Sant Joan de Boí. In the afternoon, we walk a short distance from our hotel to visit Santa Eulàlia d’Erill la Vall and its sculptures.

Day 7 Today we make a visit to the Aigüestortes National Park, the only national park in Catalonia and one of the best protected in Southern Europe. Once we arrive in the park by local taxi, we walk from Roca de la Cremada to Estany Long which gives us the perfect opportunity to see the rugged beauty of the park.

Day 8 After breakfast we return to Barcelona Airport for our flight to the UK.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

Combining modernity and comfort with Vall de Boí’s rural mountain atmosphere, Hotel Pey is ideally located for our explorations of the Pyrenees. Decorated with wood and stone, the en suite rooms are equipped with all the essential amenities. Breakfast is taken at Hotel Pey, with dinner taken at a mix of local restaurants and the hotel’s restaurant where we can expect typical Catalan dishes.

VALL DE BOÍ

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1350

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Barcelona • Airport

transfers • En suite accommodation with breakfast

• Dinners taken in the hotel and local restaurants

• All local transport costs

Months of travel

Lake Llebreta in Aigüestortes National Park

Church of Sant Climent de Taüll

Hotel Pey

Picnic in the Pyrenees

The beautiful region of Aragon in north east Spain is one of history, tradition, and untouched landscapes. The picturesque village of Berdún, where we stay, lies close to glacial valleys and verdant forests, medieval villages, megalithic monuments, and beautiful Romanesque churches. We’ll explore iconic white villages, walk along the France-Spain border, and enjoy spectacular alpine views. All our walks and sightseeing are accompanied by a local guide.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Bilbao and transfer by road to Berdún. En route, we make a stop for lunch in Pamplona and visit this famous town.

Day 2 See the beautiful white villages against a backdrop of red cigar-shaped formations as we enjoy a nature walk from Agüero to Murillo, along an ancient walled pathway. Afternoon visit to the impressive Abbey of Loarre.

Day 3 A short walk through woodlands brings us to a spectacular promontory with 360º views over the countryside. Our descent brings us to the unusual 10th century monastery of San Juan de la Peña, built into the side of the rock face. It’s here that many of the kings of the ancient Kingdom of Aragon are buried.

Day 4 We follow part of the Camino de Santiago along the France-Spain border, with a visit to the ruins of the medieval pilgrims’ hospital of St Cristina.

Day 5 In the morning, we walk in the magnificent high-altitude glacial plain of Aguas Tuertas and explore the village of Hecho.

Day 6 We explore the Jaca Valley with its Romanesque churches and abandoned villages, and the ancient town of Jaca itself, containing Spain’s oldest cathedral.

Day 7 Today is a high mountain day with a ridge walk in the wild Ansó Valley with marmots, chamois, and maybe even a brown bear if we’re lucky! Afternoon visit to the village of Ansó to see the costume museum and church.

Day 8 We return to Bilbao for a guided visit of the Guggenheim Museum before arriving at the airport.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay in the cosy Casa Sarasa in the hilltop fortified medieval village of Berdún, with panoramic views from its garden. The terrace of this hacienda-style house leads onto lawns and wild meadows beyond. All meals are included in the holiday cost. The excellent breakfasts include bread from the village bakery, and wonderful home cooked dinners are taken at the Casa Sarasa. Daily picnic lunches are included.

PICNIC IN THE PYRENEES

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1945

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Bilbao • Airport transfers • Full board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Valley of Aguas Tuertas

France–Spain border

Casa Sarasa

Flavours of Hidden Spain

Dramatic cliffs, rocky coves, lush green valleys, striking architecture, fascinating culture and tradition, as well as celebrated cuisine and wines epitomise Northern Spain. Pilgrimage paths that lead to Santiago de Compostela criss-cross the region. The green Pyrenean foothills of Navarra, and the wide bays and sandy beaches of the Atlantic coast come together to create a simply wonderful, diverse holiday in this part of hidden Spain.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Bilbao and transfer to the elegant resort of San Sebastian, surrounded by green hills and fronted by a sweeping promenade and wide, sandy beach.

Day 2 We meet our guide for a visit of San Sebastian this morning and stop in the fascinating San Telmo Museum.

Day 3 We nip over the border into French Basque Country today to enjoy a gentle coastal walk and some time in St Jean de Luz.

Day 4 We take the train to the seaside village of Orio, where we follow a breathtaking coastal walk along part of the Camino Norte. Arriving in Zarautz we admire its sweeping bay and enjoy a traditional Basque seafood lunch paired with the locally produced white wine called Txakoli. We’ll return to San Sebastian where we spend the evening in the old town sampling local, delicious Pintxos dishes.

Day 5 We travel inland to the ancient Roman city of Pamplona. Dominated by the cathedral of Santa Maria, the winding streets and old city walls, much loved by Hemingway, are best explored on foot.

Day 6 From the town of Olite, we’ll enjoy a visit to the town, a stop at a winery – with a tasting of course, and a visit to the Royal Palace with magnificent views over the town and countryside. We include a sumptuous lunch today.

Day 7 After a visit to the tiny Romanesque Ermita of Santa Maria de Eunate, we’ll walk part of the Camino de Santiago to the pilgrimage town of Puente La Reina, with time to visit the town and the famous bridge.

Day 8 We transfer to Bilbao to visit the Guggenheim Museum followed by lunch before heading to the airport for our flight to London.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

In San Sebastian, we stay at the Hotel Codina (four nights), located close to the promenade and beach front. In Pamplona, our hotel is the contemporary Hotel Maisonnave, in the heart of the city (three nights). Dinner will be taken at local restaurants and hotels. On one evening, dinner isn’t included, allowing you to explore local restaurants on your own. Two lunches are included.

FLAVOURS OF HIDDEN SPAIN

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1855

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Bilbao • Airport transfers • En suite accommodation with breakfast

• Dinner taken in the hotel and local restaurants on six nights

• Lunch at a seaside restaurant on one walk day • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Puenta La Reina

Hotel Maisonnave, Pamplona

Pinchos, traditional Basque appetizer

Discover the Rías Baixas

Galicia is famed for its gardens and flowers, especially the camellia. Traditional Galician pazos, or manor houses, are dotted over the countryside and were once homes to kings and nobility, all having splendid gardens for us to visit. The area has numerous paths that criss-cross the countryside, offering gentle strolls through vineyards and alongside rivers. Trails meander through traditional villages, to coastal towns, and past old churches and hórreos.

Proposed itinerary

Day

1 We fly to Santiago de Compostela, in the north of the region, and transfer to Pontevedra by coach. We have a relaxing day in town with a light tapas lunch included.

Day 2 Our walk today takes us to the pretty seaside village of Combarro along one of the pilgrimage paths through vineyards and past the monastery of Poio.

Day 3 We take a short walking tour of Pontevedra before driving south to discover the beautiful bay of Baiona, Castle of Monterreal, and the Parque de Castro with splendid sea views.

Day 4 From the village of Armenteira, we follow the path of Piedra y Agua along the river, seeing ancient watermills. We stop for lunch in the town of Villanova de Arousa before visiting the Pazo de Rubianes, a Ducal palace from the 1700s with spectacular botanical gardens and vineyards.

Day 5 We start the day with a short drive to the seaside town of Cambados to visit the Manolo Paz Museum.

Day 6 A guided morning visit of Santiago de Compostela takes us through the old streets, whilst the Alameda Gardens offer a haven in the city with splendid varieties of flora and fauna. In the afternoon, we visit the Pazo de Faramello for a guided visit of the 18th century building and gardens.

Day 7 Today our walks follow part of the Padre Sarmiento Route that runs along the coast between Sanxenxo to Lanzada beach, famed for its incredible dunes. We then travel to O Grove, where we take a boat trip on the Ria to visit a mussel farm and taste locally produced Albarino wines.

Day 8 After breakfast, we head to the airport for our return flight.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

The three-star Hotel Rías Bajas is located in the pedestrianised centre of Pontevedra’s old town. Everything is close at hand, including bars, cafés, shopping, and restaurants, and it’s an ideal location to enjoy an after-dinner stroll. This holiday is half board with most dinners at local restaurants, plus one lunch included in the holiday cost.

DISCOVER THE RÍAS BAIXAS

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1595

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Santiago de Compostela • Airport transfers • En suite accommodation with breakfast • Dinner taken in the hotel and local restaurants • Lunch in Pontevedra

• All local transport costs

Months of travel

Hotel

Pazo

Mariñán

Camellia

Catalan

The light in Spain’s north east corner is quite special and provided great inspiration for some of Salvador Dali’s most famous works. From the pretty seaside town of El Port de la Selva, close to the French border, we’ll discover his home in the seaside village of Cadaqués, visit the Dali House-Museum in Figueres, enjoy walks in the Cap de Creus National Park as well as explore the historic town of Peralada, with its magnificent castle and even pop over into France for the day. This picturesque, historic corner of Spain is just waiting to be explored.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 Arriving at Barcelona Airport, we transfer by coach to the splendid Porto Cristo Hotel in El Port de la Selva. Dinner is at our hotel’s own restaurant this evening.

Day 2 Step out of the hotel and enjoy a coastal walk to Llanca, where we have time to enjoy the seafront cafés before returning to El Port de la Selva by local bus.

Day 3 We take our coach to the historic town of Peralada today, where our local guide shows us the town and magnificent castle and where we also enjoy a local walk.

Day 4 Our walk takes us along a coastal path to the pretty seaside village of Cadaqués, with time to explore the little streets, take in the café atmosphere, and visit Dali’s house, which is now a museum.

Day 5 We head over into France today to Argelès Plage, where we follow a path to Argelès Port and onto Collioure for some free time, and perhaps visit the castle.

Day 6 The town of Figueres is home to the Dali House-Museum, which we visit on a guided tour as we explore the town. After an included lunch, we return to Port de la Selva.

Day 7 The Cap de Creus offers some beautiful walks and we enjoy one of these today, perhaps the longest of the week. There’ll be some free time before dinner this evening.

Day 8 We depart for Barcelona Airport for our return flight to the UK.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

The four-star Spa Porto Cristo Hotel is housed in a tastefully restored 19th century building, a short stroll from El Port de la Selva’s beachfront. Rooms have been recently refurbished offering comfort and style. Breakfasts are taken at the hotel with dinner at the nearby, hotel owned, Monterrey Restaurant which overlooks the sea.

CATALAN EXPLORER

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1595

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Barcelona • Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel

• Guided tour of Peralada Castle • Entrance to Dali House-Museum • Local guide in Figueres • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Sant Pere de Rodes

Hotel

Porto Cristo

Peralada

A Castle in Catalonia

Staying in a hill-top castle is the perfect start to visiting Catalonia in style. Our visit to this north eastern corner of Spain includes a mixture of gentle walks and sightseeing. You’ll explore the Gaudi city of Barcelona, with a visit to the Sagrada Familia, the monastery at Montserrat, as well as countryside strolls between historic villages and a little wine-tasting – you’re in cava country after all! Situated between the mountains and sea, we have chosen the most wonderfully located and impressive-looking hotel in the Adagio brochure for our exploration of this part of Catalonia.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Barcelona and transfer to the pleasant town of Cardona. Our hotel is easily visible as it sits imposingly atop a hill above the town.

Day 2 A day exploring the local area, including the church and castle and famous salina or salt mountain which has worked since ancient times.

Day 3 We visit the spectacular monastery at Montserrat today, which sits atop local mountains and is reached by funicular.

Day 4 From Sant Llorenç de Morunys, surrounded by lakes and Pyrenean mountains, we stroll through the countryside, enjoying the scenery.

Day 5 We have a day in Barcelona, where, in the company of a local guide, we enjoy some of the most distinctive architecture and ambiance of any European city and make a visit to the spectacular Sagrada Familia.

Day 6 Today there’s a short journey north west to Solsona, a pretty Catalan town, for a stroll through the local countryside and a visit to the town’s museum.

Day 7 The coastal town of Sitges is our destination today, where we enjoy time in the town, a countryside walk, and enjoy some cava-tasting en route back to Cardona.

Day 8 We transfer back to Barcelona Airport.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included. The order of the days may be subject to change dependent on the availability of tickets to the Sagrada Familia.

Hotel & Meals

We stay at the Parador in Cardona, which is located in a medieval castle. Beautifully situated atop a hill, this is an outstanding four-star hotel with splendid views. The décor is in keeping with its historical past, whilst providing modern conveniences. Dinners are taken in the atmospheric on-site restaurant and include local wines.

A CASTLE IN CATALONIA

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1785

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Barcelona • Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast, dinners, and wine taken in the hotel

• All local transport costs

Months of travel

Montserrat

View of Barcelona from Parc Guell

Parador de Cardona

Hidden Gems of Andalucía

On the edge of Spain’s Sierra Nevada Natural Park sits Lanjarón, famous for its mineral rich spring waters. The white-washed Andalucían village is a labyrinth of quiet squares, shady corners, and bubbling fountains, where you’ll find locally produced honey and typical sweet pastries. Within easy reach are coastal and valley strolls, Moorish villages and castles, attractive gardens, dramatic caves, and the fascinating city of Granada with the most famous of Andalucían monuments – the majestic Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 Fly into Malaga and transfer by coach to our hotel, where a welcome drink awaits you.

Day 2 We’ll discover Lanjarón today seeing the town’s famous fountains, the hidden portales, and quiet alleyways. Our afternoon walk is on Lanjarón’s doorstep and takes us to the ruins of Lanjarón Castle.

Day 3 In the Lecrin Valley, we’ll discover the village of Nigüelas with a 12th century disused olive oil mill, enjoy an easy walk with panoramic valley views, and finish with a visit to beautiful gardens in nearby Velez.

Day 4 We’ll have a guided visit of Granada’s historic quarter and a visit to the Alhambra Palace, an icon of Moorish Andalucía.

Day 5 Explore the magnificent Nerja Caves, formed over two million years ago. We’ll also enjoy time in Nerja village with panoramic views over the Mediterranean Sea, from the Balcón de Europa.

Day 6 A walk along Granada’s Tropical Coast, leads us to the white-washed village of Salobreña, topped with a 10th century Moorish castle with spectacular views.

Day 7 We wander the white-washed villages of Las Alpujarras on easy paths, seeing traditional life and enjoying a tapas lunch.

Day 8 After breakfast, we transfer to Malaga Airport for our return flight.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included. The order of the days may be subject to change dependent on the availability of tickets to the Alhambra Palace.

Hotel & Meals

We stay at the family-owned, three-star Hotel Alcadima in Lanjarón. The hotel has an outdoor pool, tranquil gardens, and its restaurant offers delicious, regionally inspired dishes. All rooms have a balcony or patio, and a hospitality tray with kettle, tea, and coffee. Breakfast will be taken at the hotel, and dinner at the hotel and local restaurants. Lunch is also included on our visit to Nigüelas and on our villages walk.

HIDDEN GEMS OF ANDALUCÍA

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1475

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Malaga • Airport transfers • En suite accommodation with breakfast

• Dinners taken in the hotel and local restaurants

• Two local lunches • Entrance to the Alhambra Palace & Gardens • Guided visit of Granada

• All local transport costs

Months of travel

Andalucían Village

Hotel

Alhambra

Jerez & Los Pueblos Blancos

The province of Cádiz has a lot to offer from hillside white towns to sherry production and flamenco shows. Our visits to Jerez, Cádiz, and surrounding towns include a mixture of gentle walks and sightseeing, as well as lunch in a Parador and an excursion to Doñana National Park, one of Europe’s most beautiful wetlands.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Seville and transfer to Jerez Hotel & Spa in the heart of the Andalucían city of Jerez.

Day 2 After breakfast, we head out on a guided tour of Jerez with a visit to nearby Fundación Real Escuela Andaluza del Arte Ecuestre, an institution dedicated to the preservation of the equestrian arts. Whilst there, we watch a show featuring dancing horses.

Day 3 Today we’re in charming El Puerto de Santa María, where we visit the medieval Castle of San Marcos, followed by a sherry-tasting in a winery.

Day 4 We visit Arcos de la Frontera, one of Andalucía’s most dramatically positioned pueblos blancos, for a short walk, plus lunch in the Parador overlooking the Guadalete River. The views are spectacular!

Day 5 Cádiz, an ancient Mediterranean port town brimming with Spanish history and culture, is our destination today. Following a guided tour, we have the afternoon free to explore on our own.

Day 6 We spend the day at Doñana National Park, home to more than 230 species of birds and some of the most endangered species on the planet.

Day 7 Today we walk with a local guide from Barbate to Cape Trafalgar, stopping off in Vejer de la Frontera for lunch and a guided tour of the hilltop village.

Day 8 We say so long to Jerez before transferring to Seville to catch our return flight home.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

The four-star Jerez Hotel & Spa is situated in the centre of Jerez, just steps from González Hontoria Park. There’s a fitness room, spa, and wellness centre, as well as an indoor and outdoor pool. A buffet breakfast is served each morning, with dinner taken nightly in a mix of local restaurants and the hotel restaurant, which offers an array of Spanish dishes and traditional Mediterranean cuisine.

JEREZ & LOS PUEBLOS BLANCOS

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1495

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Seville • Airport transfers • En suite accommodation with breakfast

• Dinners taken in the hotel and local restaurants

• All local transport costs

Months of travel

Jerez

Gonzalez

Jerez

Menorca Poc a Poc (Little by Little)

Menorca, a Mediterranean island smaller in size compared with its larger sister, Majorca, doesn’t mean it’s lacking in what it offers. The island is a UNESCO biosphere well-known for its diverse birdlife and flora. Early human activity and culture from the end of the 2nd century BC can be spotted all over the island, as can the island’s famous black horses, which can be seen grazing in the fields as we walk.

Proposed itinerary

Day

1 Upon arrival in Menorca, we take the short transfer to Es Castell, where, if time allows, your leader will show you where you can find all the amenities you might need locally during your stay.

Day 2 Join your leader for a walking tour of Mahón (Maó), the capital of Menorca. After lunch, we hop on the Yellow Catamaran, with its glass bottom hull, for a trip out into the harbour. When we reach land, we pop into the local gin distillery, another British navy legacy, for a tour and tasting.

Day

3 We visit the prehistoric Talayotic site of Torres d’en Galmés, then walk on white beaches down at Son Bou and through the dune system. Menorca has more beaches than the other three Balearic Islands put together.

Day 4 Today we walk from our hotel to Fort Marlborough on the coast before visiting a bodega for a wine-tasting.

Day 5 We take a boat trip in the morning to the Hospital Island of Isle del Rey in the harbour mouth. In the afternoon, take some time to yourself to enjoy the hotel or discover more of the island.

Day 6 We start the day by travelling to the west coast of the island to Cituadella, the old historic capital of Menorca. After some time exploring with a local guide for the day, we go outside the city to the quarries and botanical gardens at Lithica.

Day 7 A coastal walk on the Cami de Cavalls (The Horse’s Way) from Cap Favàritx lighthouse to the s’Albufera nature reserve at Es Grau. Look out for tortoises and orchids in the spring.

Day 8 It’s time to bid a fond farewell to Menorca as we head back to the airport for our flight back to the UK.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

The four-star Hotel Agamenon sits alongside the historically significant Mahón harbour in Es Castell, just over a mile from Mahón town centre. Rooms are clean and crisp, and most come with a balcony. Breakfast and dinner are included and are taken at the hotel each day.

MENORCA POC A POC (LITTLE BY LITTLE)

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1380

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Mahon • Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel

• Two lunches • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Menorca coastal walk

Ciudadela Alcazar

Hotel Agamenon

The Algarve & Andalucía

Sea breezes, rolling hills, olive trees, wildflowers, and lavender unite to create some of the unique sights, smells, and sensations of this peaceful area nestled between Portugal and Spain. Our holiday gives us a taste of this and more – including local cuisine accompanied by local wine. From boat trips to unspoilt islands and scenic coastal walks through white-washed villages, we experience a gateway to the cultures and traditions of both regions.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Faro and transfer to the Prime Energize Hotel in Monte Gordo, a lovely resort town situated on one of the finest beaches in the Eastern Algarve.

Day 2 Our discovery of the Eastern Algarve begins with an exploration of the coastal villages of Manta Rota and Altura. We walk along the beach on raised boardwalks and past seemingly endless sand dunes to Monte Gordo.

Day 3 A trail through a pine forest takes us to Vila Real de Santo António, a historic town with a relaxed pace of life. A boat carries us across the Spanish border to Ayamonte in Andalucía for a delicious tapas lunch. Day 4 We visit Castro Marim Nature Reserve, rich in birdlife and many fish species.

Day 5 We walk along the salt pans to charming Tavira with its white-washed buildings and narrow streets decorated with colourful Arab-style tiles. A boat transports us to Tavira Island, a beautiful oasis where we stroll along one of the finest beaches in the world.

Day 6 We take a scenic drive along the edge of the Rio Guadiana to Alcoutim, a traditional Algarvian town set amongst rolling green hills.

Day 7 A train takes us to Olhão, a picturesque coastal town with Moroccan architecture and a beautiful waterfront and harbour. We travel by boat to the barrier islands of Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, a protected lagoon stretching along the coastline.

Day 8 We say farewell before transferring to Faro Airport and returning home.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

The four-star Prime Energize Hotel is close to Monte Gordo beach. The dunes and cliffs of the Algarve inspired its tranquil décor. The en suite rooms blend elegance with minimalism to create a calming atmosphere. Amongst the hotel’s facilities are a rooftop bar and swimming pool, spa, and gardens with native plants. We dine at the hotel for breakfast and dinner, where we can savour dishes created from local ingredients. Wine is included at evening meals.

THE ALGARVE AND ANDALUCÍA 7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1645

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Faro • Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast, dinners, and wine taken in the hotel

• Tapas lunch in Spain and on Tavira Island • Return boat trip to Ayamonte • Return boat trip to Tavira Island • Boat tour of the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Tavira in Portugal

Ayamonte in Spain

Prime

Medieval Portugal

This one week holiday in Portugal is designed for lovers of history, culture, and tradition. A unique walking tour on the Portuguese trail of the Knights Templar, visiting some of its most fascinating monuments along the way. Based in Tomar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this holiday provides captivating scenery, historic heritage, rustic green landscapes, and tranquil surroundings.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Lisbon and transfer to the Hotel dos Templarios, in Tomar. Depending on our arrival time, we have an orientation walk of the town before dinner.

Day 2 We explore central Tomar with a morning introductory walk passing the main monuments and points of interest. The day will be partly guided to give a full background to the buildings and history of Tomar and there’ll be free time to relax and soak up the atmosphere of this special town.

Day 3 Walk in the Serra de Aires Natural Park to visit its limestone wonders and fantastic cave formations.

Day 4 We take a ferry to visit the hauntingly beautiful Templar Castle of Almourol set in the middle of the River Tejo. We’ll walk to Vila Nova da Barquinha and finish at the modern sculptures garden.

Day 5 We visit two World Heritage Sites today; a morning at Batalha Abbey, one of Europe’s greatest Gothic masterpieces. After lunch, we visit the 12th century Abbey of Alcobaça, the burial site of Portugal’s most famous royal lovers, originally given to St Bernard of Clairvaux, the founder of the Knights Templar.

Day 6 A walk alongside the River Nabão, followed by an afternoon visit to a winery to taste some of Portugal’s most fragrant and delicious wines.

Day 7 Explore the historic town of Ourém and its ancient castle, which is one of the most beautiful in Portugal, with Templar links. There’ll be a guided tour of the village and castle before some free time to relax and enjoy the views in the afternoon.

Day 8 We return to Lisbon for the flight home.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay in the Hotel dos Templarios, located in its own extensive gardens. It has a spa, swimming pool, and offers fabulous views over the city of Tomar and the River Nabão. The hotel is a few minutes’ walk from the historic centre of the town. We take breakfast in the hotel and enjoy dinner in local restaurants, giving us a true taste of Portugal.

MEDIEVAL PORTUGAL

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1625

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Lisbon • Airport transfers • En suite accommodation with breakfast

• Dinners taken in the hotel and local restaurants

• All local transport costs

Months of travel

Tomar city centre

The Castle of Tomar

Hotel dos Templarios

Tuscany’s Treasures

Embark on an immersive holiday taking in the splendours of one of Italy’s most famous wine-growing regions. A feast for the senses with a wealth of good food and wine, we’re based in the heart of the Tuscan landscape, with beautiful towns like Florence, Siena, and Pisa all within easy reach. We also explore some of the area’s spa towns and hilltop villages, delighting in the sights of the lush countryside.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Pisa and transfer to Hotel Torretta in Montecatini Terme, a town celebrated for its therapeutic waters. Day 2 Today we explore Montecatini Terme, before walking to Montecatini Alto, a medieval hilltop village with panoramic views across the countryside. Then we continue to a picturesque villa for a light lunch with wine and an olive oil-tasting.

Day 3 We transfer to Siena, revered for its medieval cityscape and UNESCO-listed city centre, for a morning of sightseeing. We continue to the medieval hill town of San Gimignano for a walk around its historic walls.

Day 4 We enjoy a guided tour and spend the day in the famous Renaissance city of Florence.

Day 5 The train takes us to Pistoia, a city tucked at the foot of the Apennines with a vast market selling local produce. Later, we take another short train ride to the textile city of Prato.

Day 6 After breakfast, we take the train to Lucca, located at the foot of the Apuan Alps, to walk around the ancient town’s historic walls. We’ll also enjoy a cooking lesson at a local farm.

Day 7 We spend another day sightseeing in Pisa, home to Italy’s most iconic landmark – its leaning tower. In the evening we visit a local farm enjoying wine-tasting and cooking a traditional Italian cuisine for dinner!

Day 8 We bid Tuscany arrivederci before transferring to Pisa for our return flight home.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

Known for its hospitality, the four-star Hotel Torretta is situated in the heart of the Tuscan spa town of Montecatini Terme. Rooms are spacious and bright, with facilities including a swimming pool and whirlpool. Breakfast is taken at Hotel Torretta, with dinner taken at a mix of local restaurants and the hotel’s restaurant. One lunch with an olive oiltasting is included at a local villa, and a cooking lesson can also be enjoyed one evening.

TUSCANY’S TREASURES

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1695

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Pisa • Airport transfers • En suite accommodation with breakfast

• Dinners taken in the hotel and local restaurants

• One lunch with an olive oil-tasting • Visit to a winery • All local transport costs • One cooking lesson and wine-tasting at a local farm • Entrance to music concert in Lucca • Guided tour of Florence

• Guided tour of Siena

Months of travel

Hotel Torretta

Florence

Olive oil and olives

Sights & Delights of Umbria

Umbria is the green heart of Italy. The long summers and fertile land bring forth olives, grapes, and other delicious produce in sun-kissed abundance. In winter, we can enjoy crisp days with some wonderful clear views. Beautifully preserved Renaissance towns dot the landscape. Besides the treasures of Assisi, are the lesser known attractions of Spello, Spoleto, and our base Trevi, providing an excellent balance of sightseeing and gentle walks. Here peace and quiet pervade the shade of old town streets.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Rome and transfer through Lazio and Umbria to Trevi, our base for the week.

Day 2 We’ll take a walk along the Olive Tree Trail which offers panoramic views of the Valle Umbria. The rest of the day is free to explore Trevi with a visit to the museum and church of San Francesco.

Day 3 Spello is another lovely medieval hill town sitting under Monte Subasio. There are Roman arches and quiet, winding streets to explore and some stunning Pinturicchio frescoes in the church of Santa Maria Maggiore.

Day 4 A full day in Assisi with a local guide to show us the highlights, including a visit to one of Umbria’s truly memorable sights, the Basilica of St Francis.

Day 5 Lake Trasimeno is Italy’s fourth largest lake. We enjoy a boat trip to the lovely island of Isola Maggiore, with a short walk that takes us to the top of the island and the 13th century Chiesa di San Archangelo.

Day 6 We visit the hilltop town of Spoleto and its 12th century cathedral. The Ponte delle Torri (Bridge of Towers) is Spoleto’s must-see sight and one of Italy’s engineering wonders.

Day 7 Today we visit the pretty village of Montefalco, decorated with architectural and artistic delights. The frescos in the church of San Francesco in Montefalco aren’t to be missed. We follow a trail across the rolling fresh countryside to a local vineyard, where we’re treated to a personalised tour, a light lunch, and wine-tasting.

Day 8 We take our private coach back to Rome and fly home.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

The four-star Hotel Antica Dimora alla Rocca is a beautifully restored 15th century Palazzo manor house in the centre of historic Trevi and a delightful place to stay. Astonishingly, for its location, it has a swimming pool (open in summer). Breakfast and dinner are taken in the hotel. The hotel takes great pride in its food and wines and uses superb local produce. One lunch is included at a local winery.

SIGHTS & DELIGHTS OF UMBRIA

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1365

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Rome • Airport

transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners, and wine taken in the hotel

• Visit to local vineyard • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Assisi

Hotel Antica Dimora alla Rocca

Village of Trevi

Artistic Umbria

Città di Castello lies on the Tiber River, where Tuscany and Umbria meet. It’s a classic example of a small Renaissance city and ideally located for exploring the surrounding hill-top towns and villages of Italy’s landlocked heart. We’ll learn something of local custom, history, art (notably, the work of Piero della Francesca and Perugino), and architecture. We can stroll through the countryside to better appreciate the abundance of beauty this region possesses, a feast for the eyes (so don’t forget your cameras), the soul, and the stomach!

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Bologna and travel to our hotel at Citta di Castello. The Hotel Tiferno, in the heart of the old town, offers a warm welcome.

Day 2 A morning exploring Città di Castello, and later we take an easy walk along the Tiber.

Day 3 Today we’re in Tuscany, visiting Arezzo’s architectural wonders including the famous Piero della Francesca frescoes in the morning and much smaller, (but perfectly medieval), Anghiari in the afternoon. Photographers will be in for a treat.

Day 4 A short drive takes us to Gubbio, a delightful medieval town of quiet streets and centuries-old palazzi. We’ll see the highlights in the morning with our local guide, and in the afternoon, we can stroll on a medieval viaduct.

Day 5 We make an incursion into The Marches, to Urbino. Accompanied by our guide, we’ll see the best of this perfect Renaissance town.

Day 6 Today we discover the art and architecture of Perugia with our guide. Walking through the labyrinthine lanes and medieval alleyways, this is urban walking at its best.

Day 7 We visit Sansepolcro, in the Tiber Valley, then Citerna and Monterchi in the hills, enjoying the countryside and seeing some beautiful art.

Day 8 Alas, all good things must end as we return to Bologna to fly home.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

The Hotel Tiferno is a 17th century palace that once was the monastery of the church of St Francesco nearby. Completely restored, the hotel has achieved an ideal balance between the elegant atmosphere created by period furniture and paintings and all the amenities one can expect from a modern hotel. Breakfast is taken at the hotel and dinner will be taken in local restaurants to enhance the Umbrian experience.

ARTISTIC UMBRIA

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1560

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Bologna • Airport transfers • En suite accommodation with breakfast • Dinners taken in local restaurants • Three visits with local guides • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Hills in the Marche region

Anghiari

Hotel Tiferno

Lake Como Gardens & Villas

Charming countryside and alluring gardens

Lake Como is the most romantic of the Italian pre-alpine lakes. Steep tree-clad hills, contrasting with the blue waters of the lake, and an essentially Mediterranean climate. All this makes it a place of retreat for the Italian rich and famous travelling from the hot plains to the south and for foreign visitors in search of the exotic since Wordsworth’s day. Villas have been built along the shores with superb views, and gardens have been created with a wonderful diversity of flora. We seek out and explore these villas and their gardens, reaching them by lake ferry or on foot through twisting lanes and ancient villages.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Milan and transfer to our lakeside hotel in Cadenabbia on the west shore of Lake Como.

Day 2 A ferry takes us to Lenno to walk along the lakeside to Villa Carlotta, where we explore the 14 acres of terraced gardens and the beautiful interior of the villa. On the way back, it may be of interest to stop at the site of Mussolini’s execution by partisans in 1945.

Day 3 Sail across the lake to Bellagio to visit Villa Melzi and its lakeside gardens in the English-style. After lunch, we tour the grounds of Villa Sebelloni. Lunch is included today.

Day 4 After a leisurely ferry journey to Como, we explore this ancient walled town and take the funicular to the viewpoint at Brunate. We return by ferry.

Day 5 We take another short walk with lakeside views to reach Villa Balbionello and its fascinating gardens. Later, a tour of the house and its collections can be made.

Day 6 Today we’ll spend time on the north end of the lake visiting Bellano for its famous gorge and Gravedonna for a lakeside stroll, with great views of the Swiss Alps. Lunch is included today.

Day 7 We visit Varenna by ferry and explore the gardens of Villa Cipressi and Villa Monastero. Later, we wander the narrow streets of the town and if feeling particularly invigorated by the mountain air, we can climb to the Castello di Vezio. Lunch is included today.

Day 8 Say goodbye to Lake Como before our transfer to Milan Airport for our flight home.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

Formerly a private villa, the Grande Hotel Cadenabbia dates back to 1820 and provides the perfect combination of superb lake views and the comfort of a modern hotel. The main reception rooms are adorned with ancient stucco-work, mirrors, frescos, and majestic columns. Breakfast is taken at the hotel. Dinner is taken at the hotel and local restaurants. Three lunches are also included.

LAKE COMO GARDENS & VILLAS

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1595

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Milan • Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel

• Three lunches • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Beautiful Lake Como

Fountain in Parco Mayer

Grand Hotel Cadenabbia (left)

Bologna

La Grassa

An Italian dictionary will probably translate ‘La Grassa’ as ‘The Fat One’. Rather than a person, Bologna’s moniker refers to the superb, world-renowned produce that originates in the area. Parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, and parma ham are the most well-known, Culatello di Zibello perhaps the most exclusive. We have plenty of time to discover the heritage of these fine products, walk in the Apennine hills, and enjoy the historic cities of Parma, Modena, Ravenna, and Bologna itself. Aside from foodie delights, Bologna is a beautiful city, its famous porticoed streets lead to medieval towers and ancient churches. From our central hotel there’s time to explore the city on foot each evening.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Bologna and drive the short distance to the Hotel Orologio, located just off the main square within easy reach of all the sights.

Day 2 Our first day is spent in Bologna, a stately city renowned for its porticoed streets and fine shops. The city’s home to Europe’s oldest university, famous towers, mortadella sausage, and much more.

Day 3 We spend the day exploring the city of Parma, with tastings of the local ham and cheese along the way.

Day 4 A walk in the picturesque Apennine foothills to stretch our legs and enjoy the fresh mountain air, a lovely contrast to our city sightseeing.

Day 5 We have a day in Ravenna, briefly the capital of the western world after the fall of Roman rule in the 5th century. The mosaics in Basilica San Vitale aren’t to be missed.

Day 6 Sightseeing in Modena, home of balsamic vinegar and Ferrari. Unfairly overshadowed by Parma and Bologna, Modena is a beautiful city in its own right and deserving of our time here.

Day 7 To finish, we have a final day in and around Bologna. For a walk out of the city, the climb up to Santuario di Madonna de San Luca (connected to the city by the world’s longest portico) is a great choice.

Day 8 We have the short transfer back to Bologna Airport.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included. All of our city explorations are accompanied by local guides.

Hotel & Meals

The recently upgraded four-star superior Hotel Orologio is a beautifully restored, centrally located hotel. Orologio refers to the city square clock tower, a stone’s throw from the hotel. We have breakfast in the hotel and will sample some of Bologna’s restaurants for dinner, included in the holiday arrangements. One dinner is not included.

BOLOGNA - LA GRASSA

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1895

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Bologna • Airport transfers • En suite accommodation with breakfast

• Six dinners taken in local restaurants • Guided tours • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Bologna

Hotel Orologio

Basilica di San Vitale in Ravenna

Combine the two centres

& 49

14 nights!

The Delightful Dolomites

Have you ever thought that the Dolomites were only for hardy hikers? Well, now you can enjoy them at a leisurely pace. We make use of the excellent lift system and easy paths in unparalleled mountain views of silver blue lakes, reflecting jagged limestone peaks. We also reach the Marmolada Glacier, the highest point in the Dolomites, by a memorable cable car ride – sure to be a highlight of the week.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly from London to Venice, then continue north into the Alps by coach to the heart of the Dolomites at La Villa.

Day 2 A walk to the perfectly situated Sompunt Lake, then through traditional farming hamlets to catch a chairlift to the pilgrims’ sanctuary of Santa Croce at 2045m.

Day 3 Taking a gondola to the north Pralongia plateau, we enjoy a glorious walk through flower-filled meadows with fabulous views all round.

Day 4 After taking the Lagazuoi cable car, we’ll walk a short distance to Piccolo Lagazuoi (2778m). Later, we walk down the San Cassiano Valley to the hotel.

Day 5 Cable cars take us to the Marmolada Glacier at 3264m for the best views of the entire Dolomite range. We visit the WWI museum, containing fascinating memorabilia from the Alpine regiments. After descending, we have short walks beside a high mountain lake and through a spectacular gorge. Depending on the cable car’s seasonal dates, some departures may offer a different excursion.

Day 6 We catch a gondola to take in the views of the Val Gardena Valley, before walking to the majestic Pisciadu Waterfalls for a picnic.

Day 7 Our walk on the south Pralongia plateau takes us to the Pralongia Mountain Hut for a relaxed lunch.

Day 8 We return to Venice for our flight home. All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay in the ideally situated family-run, three-star Hotel Ladinia in La Villa in Italy’s South Tirol region. This well-established alpine hotel is handy for shops, buses, and lifts. The hotel also has a wellness centre, with a sauna, jacuzzi, and a Turkish bath. Massage and beauty treatments are also available. Breakfasts are plentiful and dinners taken in the hotel are superb.

THE DELIGHTFUL DOLOMITES

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1510

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Venice • Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel

• Five day Dolomites Super Ski Lift Pass • All local transport costs

Months of travel

DUE SETTIMANE IN THE DOLOMITES

14 NIGHTS / Tour Code 53090

Prices from £2595

Months of travel

Extend your stay!

Dolomites panorama

Dolomites scenery

Hotel

Combine the two centres on p48 & 49 and enjoy 14 nights!

Dobbiaco & the Tre Cime

Dramatic mountains and pristine lakes; you’ll be spoilt for choice with so many panoramic views. The Tre Cime, the Cima Grande, the Cima Occidentale, and the Cima Piccola are amongst the most famous landmarks of the Dolomites. Alongside the South Tirol, they’re well worth their status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is the essence of what Adagio Plus is all about – leisurely walks in big mountains!

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly into Venice and transfer by coach to Dobbiaco, our alpine home for the week at 1256m.

Day 2 Discover the local area around the village of Dobbiaco. We follow a nature trail around the little lake of Lago di Dobbiaco, set amongst the Fannes-Senes-Braies and the Tre Cime Natural Parks.

Day 3 Walk in Val Fiscalina from the village of Moso to Rifugio Fondovalle. Referred to as the most beautiful valley in the world, we can enjoy flower-filled meadows, thick woods, rustic pastures, and rock formations.

Day 4 Today we visit the high altitude Rifugio Auronzo (2326m) situated at the foot of the world famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo. These enormous freestanding limestone towers are a symbol of the Dolomites. Later, we explore Monte Piana (2324m), a large flat topped mountain that offers some of the best panoramic views in the Dolomites. Today is a highlight; prepare yourself for dramatic views of the three peaks!

Day 5 We walk along a winding forest trail to San Candido to the foot of the impressive Baranci mountain range.

Day 6 Take the cable car to Mount Elmo (2050m) to explore the panoramic crest of the Carniche Alps, along the Via Alpina, a ridge that marks the border between Austria and Italy. We take the cable car back down and walk to San Candido along a forest track, with time to explore the village.

Day 7 We venture up to Prato Piazza, a high altitude pasture at 2000m to enjoy the overwhelming panoramic views of the nearby mountains Picco Vallandro and Croda Rossa, plus the more distant peaks of Monte Cristallo and Tofane. Later, we visit the emerald green glacial Lago di Braies, known as the Pearl of the Dolomites.

Day 8 We leave Dobbiaco and transfer by coach to Venice Airport for the flight home.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay in the traditional three-star, family-run Hotel Union on a half board basis, the food is highly rated and locally sourced. The hotel is just a ten-minute stroll away from the centre of Dobbiaco. The hotel has a swimming pool, tennis court, and a spa area with saunas, a jacuzzi, and a Turkish bath.

DOBBIACO & THE TRE CIME

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1685

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Venice • Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • All local transport costs

Months of travel

DUE SETTIMANE IN THE DOLOMITES

14 NIGHTS / Tour code 53090

Prices from £2595

Months of travel

Extend your stay!

Lago di Braies

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Montalbano’s Sicily

Everyone who’s watched the “Inspector Montalbano” TV series can’t help but be inspired by the scenic beauty and the Baroque towns and cities in the overlooked region of south eastern Sicily. On this holiday, you’ll experience imposing architecture, world class archaeology, hillside villages, dramatic coastlines, and eclectic local cuisine influenced through the ages by numerous cultures. We also make use of private guides in three of the Baroque cities to make the most out of our visits.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Catania and transfer by road to Ragusa, where we stay for seven nights.

Day 2 We spend our time sightseeing in Ragusa Superiore and Ragusa Ibla. This fascinating city of two distinct sections is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its abundance of Baroque architecture.

Day 3 This morning, we have a gentle walk to the top of the Cava Ispica gorge. The significance of the gorge is explained during our visit to the local museum. The afternoon will be spent visiting Donnalucata and Punta Secca, the home of the fictional Inspector Montalbano. We also visit Donnafugata on our return journey to the hotel.

Day 4 We spend the day in Syracuse, exploring its many archaeological sites, as well as discovering the charming island of Ortygia with a local guide.

Day 5 Today is a free day where you can relax and explore at your leisure.

Day 6 We spend the morning in Modica, where we’ll have a short private tour of the Bonajuto chocolate kitchens. Then it’s onto Scicli for the afternoon for some sightseeing with a local guide.

Day 7 Our morning will be spent in the Sicilian Baroque town of Noto. A local guide will shed light on the history of the town, rebuilt after an earthquake in the 1600s. In the afternoon, we descend to the coast for a walk around the Vendicari Nature Reserve.

Day 8 We return to Catania for the flight home.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included. Please note the order of visits may differ depending on the departure month.

Hotel & Meals

We stay in the small three-star family-run Hotel II Barocco in Ragusa Ibla. Our hotel is tucked away in a quiet location and is close to the San Giorgio Cathedral. Breakfast at the hotel, six dinners in local restaurants, and one deli lunch are included. Dinner on one evening isn’t included to allow for you to explore independently.

MONTALBANO’S SICILY 7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1549

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Catania • Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and six dinners taken in the hotel • Lunch tasting in Ragusa • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Ragusa Ibla

Noto

A Greek Experience

Although close to mainland Greece, the island of Evia has a wonderfully remote and undiscovered feel with stunning scenery, a beautiful coastline, traditional villages, and picturesque beaches. Add delicious local food, wines, medieval castles, Byzantine churches, warm Greek hospitality, and you have everything you need to experience and savour the real Greece.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Athens and take our coach to Karystos on Evia, arriving in time for dinner at our hotel.

Day 2 With a relaxed start, we’ll visit the Kalivia Environmental Centre before walking to the pretty streamside church of Agia Triada where we’ll have our picnic lunch. This evening there’s a fun Greek language lesson.

Day 3 We explore Karystos, visiting a honey producer. After a local walk, we have our Greek cookery demonstration where we can help prepare a traditional dish as part of this evening’s meal.

Day 4 An excursion to the village of Old Styra and walk to the mysterious Drakospita or Dragon House.

Day 5 Visit the Roman Aqueduct and the Venetian Castello Rosso, dominating the foothills of Mount Ochi, enjoying a taverna lunch at the end of our walk.

Day 6 We visit a folklore collection and see how local sweet preserves are made. After a visit to the attractive port town of Marmari, following lunch, we walk along the coast.

Day 7 We’ll take a gentle walk with expansive views of the coast, taking in local churches. This afternoon, we visit the Montofoli organic winery, with a tasting and mezze.

Day 8 A morning at leisure before departing for the ferry to the mainland and Athens Airport. All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

The delightful three-star Hotel Karystion is a real gem, set among trees and just a few steps from the beach. We eat breakfast at the hotel and dinner either at the hotel or in local tavernas. We also include two lunches. Meals at the hotel can be taken on the veranda if the weather is fine.

A GREEK EXPERIENCE

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1310

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Athens • Airport transfers • En suite accommodation with breakfast

• Dinners taken in the hotel and local restaurants

• Interactive cooking demonstration • All local transport costs

Months of travel

2 NIGHT ATHENS EXTENSION

9 NIGHTS / Tour code 55509

Prices from £1445

Months of travel

your stay!

Lunch at Stella’s

Hotel Karystion

Combine Evia with two nights in the city of Athens!

An Ionian Jewel

Corfu, the largest of Greece’s Ionian Islands, offers visitors rich rewards, not only with its stunning natural landscape, but also its multi-cultural heritage. The preserved Old Town of Corfu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you’ll find majestic Venetian buildings, secluded squares, and narrow cobbled streets. Away from the coast, the island’s interior has an almost undiscovered feel with countryside trails, small villages, and wooded hillsides. Visitors, particularly in spring, will be amazed at the green landscape, enhanced by the yellow and purple flowers of the eastern Mediterranean shrubs. Corfu is a lovely corner of Greece!

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 Fly into Corfu and make the short transfer by coach to our hotel in Corfu Town.

Day 2 We discover Corfu Town today with our local guide and visit Mon Repos Palace, situated on the outskirts of Corfu Town, the birthplace of Queen Elizabeth’s husband, Prince Phillip.

Day 3 Travelling to the west coast of the island, arriving at the traditional village of Vatos. We follow a walk to the south, partly along the Corfu Trail. If time permits, we may also visit Paleokastritza with its monastery in the afternoon.

Day 4 The small, wooded island of Vidos lies just off the coast of Corfu Town, with easy forest paths, secluded beaches, and the Kerkyra Bird and Wildlife Sanctuary. Out of season, we may visit Pontikonissi island instead.

Day 5 We walk along the unspoiled coastal path from the picturesque harbour of Kouloura to the Sarakinatika headland. We stop for lunch at Thomas’ Place in Kalama, where we spend the afternoon by the beach. There’s an optional walk to the White House, which was once Laurence Durrell’s home.

Day 6 We take an excursion by boat to Albania today for a guided visit of the ancient Butrint and Blue Eye lakes with lunch.

Day 7 Away from the coast, the island has an undiscovered feel with small villages, wooded hillsides, and quiet valleys. Our walk takes us between villages and includes lunch at a local taverna. Returning to Corfu Town, we’ll visit Casa Parlante, a 19th century mansion which offers an authentic experience of Corfu’s bygone days.

Day 8 We depart after breakfast, making the short journey to the airport by coach.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

Originally built for a nobleman in the 17th century, the Hotel Cavalieri is located in the heart of Venetian Corfu Town, overlooking the Ionian Sea. Once a meeting point for writers, actors, and poets, the hotel retains its old-style charm but with today’s modern facilities. We’ll enjoy breakfast at the hotel and plan to have dinner at the roof-top restaurant one evening. Two lunches are included.

AN IONIAN JEWEL

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1760

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Corfu • Airport transfers • En suite accommodation with breakfast

• Dinners taken in the hotel and local tavernas

• Two lunches • Excursion to Albania • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Corfu Town

Arcadian Hotel

Ionian coastline

The Lazy Alps

Taking

easy

Anyone arriving in Wengen thinks that heaven probably looks something like this. A car-free village perched above a valley. The sparkling, mesmerising face of the Jungfrau. If you have ever longed for spectacular Alpine walking on easy trails, the best system of cable cars, and mountain trains anywhere in the world, it’s possible here. Ride up, ride down, and stroll through the meadows in between - with longer days out in the mountains than you might expect, this continues to be one of our Adagio best sellers.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 On arrival in Zurich, we take a private coach transfer to Lauterbrunnen, changing on to a cogwheel train to vehicle-free Wengen.

Day 2 This morning, we explore the outskirts of Wengen, walking past farms to wonderful viewpoints. After lunch, we take the cable car to the Männlichen ridge, from where a variety of short panoramic walks are available.

Day 3 We cross the Lauterbrunnen Valley for an easy panoramic walk from Grütschalp to Mürren.

Day 4 We take the cogwheel train up to Schynige Platte for a glorious walk with views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

Day 5 A free day to discover this beautiful area using your Jungfraubahn Pass.

Day 6 We explore the valley around Grindelwald with a walk through meadows and woods between the Holenstein cable car station, and the mountain café at Brandegg, famous for its apple fritters.

Day 7 The cogwheel train takes us up to the dramatic Eiger Glacier station. A broad track heads down to Kleine Scheidegg, from where a small path crosses the flower-rich meadows under the Eiger before rising to the train station at Wengernalp.

Day 8 We say good bye to Wengen as we take the train back down the valley and transfer to Zurich Airport.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay in the charming four-star Hotel Silberhorn located in the centre of car-free Wengen. The hotel is surrounded by the impressive mountains of the Bernese Oberland at the foot of the Jungfrau. The comfortable rooms all have modern amentities and offer splendid views of the mountains. The hotel has its own spa with a wellness area which includes a steam bath, Finnish sauna, relaxation area, and whirlpool.

THE LAZY ALPS

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1995

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Zurich • Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • Six-day Jungfraubahn Pass • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Hotel Silberhorn

Blumental above Mürren

Schynige Platte

A Swiss Summer

Step into the enchanting chalet-style village of Adelboden, set at the foot of the dramatic Wildstrubel and surrounded by the Bernese Oberland Alps. Adelboden is a Swiss delight, it’s been awarded the Alpine Wellness Holiday Resort certificate and is the perfect setting for an unforgettable summer venture with over 186 miles of hiking paths, remarkable views of the magical alps, plus a network of cable cars for access to some superb high level mountain walking. With a bustling main street filled with cafés, shops, cheese dairies with fresh Alpkäse (Alpen cheese), and Swiss chocolate – what more could you want?

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Zurich Airport and make the scenic journey by coach to our hotel in Adelboden, the Hotel Steinmattli.

Day 2 We discover Adelboden, taking a panorama trail through the village to the beautiful Hornli Alpine Garden. We take time to admire the 500 flowers and herbs grown here before ascending by cable car to Tschentenalp to reach the top of the Schwandfeldspitz to capture the magnificent views.

Day 3 Today we take the cable car to Sillerenbühl to walk the beautiful flower trail of the Hahnenmoos Pass, a picturesque green landscape surrounded by snow-covered peaks.

Day 4 We follow a sculpture path to Frutigen and then the bus to Kandersteg where we ascend by cable car up to 1682m to the remarkable Oeschinen Lake, a mountain lake fed by glacial brooks of the surrounding peaks.

Day 5 Today is a free day to explore Adelboden independently. Maybe make use of the local guest cards to venture up to many of the high level restaurants by cable car for lunch with a view.

Day 6 We start the day with a circular walk through alpine woods and take cable cars to reach Switzerland’s second highest waterfall, the Engstligen Waterfalls. Get your cameras ready!

Day 7 We get up close to the base of some 2400m peaks and follow a circular trail to the peaceful Elsigee Lake before visiting the Choleren Gorge.

Day 8 We say goodbye to Adelboden and transfer by coach to Zurich Airport for the flight home.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay in the picture perfect four-star Hotel Steinmattli, set close to the centre of Adelboden and only a few minutes from the village gondola station, linking us to the Silleren gondola. There’s plenty of time to unwind after our daily activities in the hotel’s sauna, solarium, whirlpool, steam bath, fitness room, and massage room! We eat traditional Swiss breakfasts and four-course dinners in the hotel’s restaurant.

A SWISS SUMMER

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1785

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Zurich • Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel

• Wanderpass and local guest card • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Aussicht Genissen

Adelboden

Hotel Steinmattli

Zermatt & the Mighty Matterhorn

“The Matterhorn is simply incredible. You have to see it with your own eyes!”, and see it you will, as well as Europe’s second highest mountain, Monte Rosa, and 28 other 4000m plus peaks… not to mention the many glaciers in between. Beneath the world’s most immediately recognisable mountain lies the village of Zermatt, our alpine home for a week of breathtaking views. Cable cars and trains whisk us from the village to walks past pretty alpine huts and through flower-filled meadows.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Geneva and transfer by train to the car-free village of Zermatt.

Day 2 After a short tour of the village, we take the gondola up to Trockener Steg via Furi and the Schwarzsee. From here, there’s a jaw-dropping 360º panorama, the first of many. On the way down, there’s the option to get out at Furi for an easy walk down to Zermatt via Zmutt.

Day 3 We take the train to the Gornergrat at over 3000m. From here, we follow the trail down to the Riffelsee for a picnic by the lake. Continue walking down towards Zermatt or take the train.

Day 4 The Sunnegga Funicular and a couple of cable cars whisk us to the Rothorn summit at over 3000m. More amazing views! From here, we walk to the Stellisee for classic reflections of the Matterhorn in the lake, then continue to the Flualp Hut. We follow the Marmot Trail to Sunnegga with the option to continue down to Zermatt on the Gourmet Trail.

Day 5 Today is a free day. You can take the cable car up the Klein Matterhorn, ride the Glacier Express, or take time out for coffee and cake in one of Zermatt’s many cafés, enjoying the mountain panoramas.

Day 6 We walk along the base of the Matterhorn between Staffelalp and Furi. Afterwards, there are various options, one of which is to follow the trail through the Glacier Garden.

Day 7 We follow the Flower Trail walk from Blauherd to Sunnegga, stopping in the idyllic location of Tufteren for a picnic lunch.

Day 8 We say goodbye to Zermatt and return by train to Geneva Airport for the flight home.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included. A six-day summer Peak Pass is included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay in the centrally located and charmingly named Hotel Butterfly, just a short walk from Zermatt’s main train station and village centre. The hotel calls its rooms “personal retreats”. The streets are quiet in this car-free village and this alpine style hotel also has a comfortable bar and its own restaurant and a spa. Breakfast and evening meals are taken at the hotel.

ZERMATT & THE MIGHTY MATTERHORN 7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1890

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Geneva • Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast, afternoon tea and cake and dinners taken in the hotel • Six-day Peak Pass • All local transport costs

Months of travel

The Matterhorn

Walking through Zermatt

Hotel Butterfly

The Zugspitz Arena

Situated on the Austria-Germany border, the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena is dominated by the Zugspitze, the highest peak in the Wetterstein range at 2962m. This hidden gem of the Tirol has dramatic peaks, lakes, high tarns, and an abundance of wildflowers. Ehrwald, at a height of 1000m, is one of the most spectacularly located villages in the Alps and is an excellent base for easy mountain walking.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Munich and transfer by coach to the attractive Austrian village of Ehrwald.

Day 2 We walk between three picturesque valley villages with the Zugspitze and Sonnenspitze always in view. Later, we take the Marienberg chairlift up to Sunnalm at 1620m to get a different perspective on the Arena. Day 3 We walk the Panoramweg to Lermoos for some excellent views of the Grubigstein mountain where we later make the easy ascent to 2050m – by gondola! After lunch, we take the gondola to the mid-station at Brettalm (1334m) and gently descend on foot back to Lermoos.

Day 4 Today we take a spectacular cable car ride to the top of the Zugspitze at 2962m. Crossing the border into Germany, we watch walkers climbing to the golden cross – the ‘Top of Germany’. An impressive 360° panorama opens up with views of 400 mountain peaks in four countries.

Day 5 A free day. Many sightseeing opportunities such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Oberammergau can be reached on our free day, as well as an opportunity to explore more of the local area with our included Z-Ticket.

Day 6 Today we visit the lakes of Heiterwang and Plansee. The sublime scenery isn’t unlike New Zealand’s Fjordland. A path leads around the lakes, offering fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and we combine this with a relaxing boat trip along the lake.

Day 7 From the Ehrwalder Alm, we ascend gently through mountain scenery for lunch at the Seebenalm (1575m).

From here, it’s a short walk to the Seebensee Lake for some classic views of the Zugspitze. With its bright turquoise water and fantastic backdrop, it’s considered one of the most beautiful lakes in Tirol.

Day 8 We drive back to Munich Airport with many memories of the wonderful scenery in the Zugspitz Arena.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included. The local travel pass covering buses, trains, and cable cars gives unlimited travel in the area and is included in the price of the holiday.

Hotel & Meals

The family-run, four-star Hotel Alpen Residence is in a quiet location just a few minutes’ walk from the village centre. Enjoy its indoor pool, extensive gardens, and magnificent views of the Alps. Breakfast and dinner are taken at the hotel.

THE ZUGSPITZ ARENA

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1595

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Munich • Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • Six-day Z-Ticket • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Seebensee Lake and the Zugspitze Mountain

Hiking through the lakes of Zugspitz Arena

Alpen

Zell am See

From crystal lakes to mighty glaciers… easy alpine hiking at its best

The medieval village of Zell am See offers more than top class skiing, it’s a summer hiking paradise in the Kitzbuhel Alps. Stroll around a crystal-clear lake one day and hike at 2000m above it the next. Big mountains, panoramic views, and easy walks, this is easy alpine hiking at its best. Every day will bring a new vista and memorable adventure.

Proposed itinerary

Day

1 We fly to Munich Airport and transfer to the village of Zell am See.

Day 2 We follow a trail from the hotel to tranquil Lake Zell, the sparkling jewel that introduces us to the peaks we explore later in the week.

Day 3 Time to go high! We’re whisked up high by a lift to the Sonnkogel where we explore a magnificent ridge walk past the Schmittenhohe, a local mountain of Zell am See at 1965m, with splendid surrounding vistas.

Day 4 A gorge and a glacier day! An opportunity to walk through the Sigmung Thun Klamm, 320m of chiselled rock opening out to a pristine emerald lake. We experience the dramatic glacial wonderland at the top of the Kitzsteinhorn where we’re surrounded by the highest mountains in Europe.

Day 5 A free day. Your opportunity to use the free lift pass, take a lake cruise, try paddle boarding, or take a day trip to Salzburg. The only difficulty today will be deciding what to do!

Day 6 We explore two high altitude reservoirs, passing the pretty town of Kaprun on the way. These azure lakes enhance the dramatic fjord-like scenery with the snow-capped surrounding mountains. We hike through marmot territory and enjoy some of the picture postcard views this region has to offer.

Day 7 Today we return to the Schmittenhohe and walk part of the Pinzgauer Spaziergang, a long-distance trail and one of the best high altitude walks in Austria.

Day 8 It’s time to say goodbye, but not for long, there’s so much more to discover here! We transfer back to Munich Airport for our return flight to the UK.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included. A six-day Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card is included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay at the four-star Hotel Romantik, situated in the centre of Zell am See. There’s a tasteful restaurant and a spa area with an indoor pool, sauna, steam bath, infrared cabins, jacuzzi, and spa treatments (available at additional prices). We include breakfast and dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, serving traditional and regional dishes.

ZELL AM SEE 7 NIGHTS

Prices from £1595

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Munich • Airport transfers • Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Kitzsteinhorn peak

Stunning views from reservoir

Hotel Romantik

Walking in the High Fens

Belgium’s Villages, Fens & Abbeys

Belgium’s southern region of Wallonia is famed for the thermal town of Spa, First World War battle sites, and one of nature’s unspoilt areas, the Ardennes Forest. Easily reached by train from Brussels, the historic city of Liège offers the perfect location for exploring picturesque villages, strolling the greenways, and discovering the High Fens, a protected reserve with abundant wildlife. There’ll be time to taste the cheese from the region, sample beer at an abbey where monks still do the brewing today, and take a train to explore the Dutch city of Maastricht.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We arrive by train from London St Pancras via Brussels, making our way to Hotel Mercure Liège City Centre.

Day 2 Accompanied by a local guide, we explore Liège, the largest city in Wallonia with many sites of interest dating back to medieval times. We then have the afternoon free to enjoy a local stroll or museum visit.

Day 3 Today we walk part of the Belgian section of the Camino de Santiago, a network of ancient pilgrim routes stretching across Europe, and enjoy a cheese-tasting in Herve.

Day 4 We explore one of the oldest cities in Holland, Maastricht – both by foot with a local guide and by water on a cruise of the River Maas.

Day 5 Our day begins with a visit to Spa, also called the “Café of Europe” and the “Pearl of the Ardennes”. Later, we explore the walking paths and breathtaking nature of the High Fens, followed by a beer-tasting at an abbey.

Day 6 We venture out to the countryside for a leisurely amble between two of Belgium’s prettiest villages, Olne and Soiron.

Day 7 Our holiday comes to an end and we return to the train station for our journey home. All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay at the four-star Hotel Mercure Liège City Centre, located next to the River Maas. The hotel has several restaurants, cafés, and shops nearby. The comfortable en suite rooms offer all the expected modern conveniences, whilst hotel facilities include a health club, bar, and terrace. We dine at the hotel for breakfast and dinner where we can expect a bistronomic menu with Belgian specialities.

BELGIUM’S VILLAGES, FENS & ABBEYS

6 NIGHTS

Prices from £1675

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return rail from London St Pancras to Liège via Brussels • Train station and hotel transfers

• Half board en suite accommodation with breakfast and dinners taken in the hotel • Guided visits of Liége and Maastricht • Boat trip from Masstricht

• All local transport costs

Months of travel

Liège

Stockholm

Summer Days in Stockholm

“A rather large village set in the middle of some forest and some lakes”, is how Ingmar Bergman described Sweden’s beautiful maritime capital. Stockholm is spread across fourteen islands, and many more lie beyond in the archipelago. With fine buildings, intriguing museums, parks, and wild nature also on the doorstep, this is one of Europe’s most elegant and alluring capitals, home to three World Heritage Sites. And of course, those warm and long days of summer.

Proposed itinerary

Day 1 We fly to Stockholm Arlanda and travel by coach to our well located hotel in central Stockholm.

Day 2 Today we enjoy a tour of the Gamla Stan, the old town, with a local guide. We take a boat to the island of Djurgården for a stroll in the park beside the water.

Day 3 A short journey brings us to Drottningholm, the royal palace and gardens on the shore of Lake Mäleren.

Day 4 A day in the Stockholm Archipelago, exploring the island of Ingmarsö’s forest and seashore.

Day 5 Just south of Stockholm lies the ancient forest of the Tyresta National Park. Our visit here takes us through woodland to quiet turquoise lakes. Our afternoon is free to further explore Stockholm.

Day 6 We return to the island of Djurgården and spend the day visiting the superb Vasa Ship Museum, housing a galleon from 1628 and the charming open air museum of Skansen, displaying wooden buildings from all over Sweden.

Day 7 A boat into the archipelago brings us to the pretty island of Vaxholm. Here we walk beside the picturesque shoreline with the option to indulge in some Swedish fika (coffee and cakes) in a charming waterside café.

Day 8 We travel to Stockholm Arlanda for the return flight to the UK.

All local transport costs, local tips and entrance fees are included.

Hotel & Meals

We stay in the ideally located, family-owned Hotel Kungsträdgården in the heart of Stockholm. Typical of many city hotels, the rooms are compact but with high ceilings, which make the rooms feel more spacious. Breakfast is taken at the hotel. Six dinners are taken at the hotel’s excellent French Scandinavian Brasserie and one dinner is taken in a local restaurant. One lunch is also included and will be taken on the island of Ingmarsö.

SUMMER DAYS IN STOCKHOLM

7 NIGHTS

Prices from £2295

Please refer to our website for the latest pricing, any supplements, and room descriptions

Prices include

Return flights from London to Stockholm Arlanda

• Airport transfers • En suite accommodation with breakfast • Six dinners taken in the hotel and one in a local restaurant • Lunch on the island of Ingmarsö

• Seven-day Stockholm travel card • All local transport costs

Months of travel

Tyresta National Park

Essential Holiday & Booking Information

FULL INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR HOLIDAY

Full information about your holiday is contained in this brochure and on our website. Our website www.adagio.co.uk provides the most up-to-date holiday information, prices, booking conditions, and other essential information.

Your package holiday booking is with RWH Travel Ltd. When you make a booking you enter into a contract with RWH Travel Ltd trading as Adagio. Our registered office is Lemsford Mill, Lemsford Village, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, AL8 7TR, United Kingdom. Our telephone number is +44 (0)1707 386700 and our email address is customerservice@rwhtravel.com

Should there be any discrepancy between the information provided in this brochure and our website, the information on our website will be considered the most up-to-date and accurate.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

Terms and conditions apply to your holiday. The Key Points are listed below, however full Booking Conditions can be found on our

HOLIDAY PRICES

The holiday prices shown in this brochure are for guidance only and represent the prices applicable at the time the brochure was published.

Holiday prices may be different at the time of booking. The most up-to-date holiday prices can be found on our website at www.adagio.co.uk or by calling our sales team on 01707 386700.

Prices are based on two persons sharing a twin room. We reserve the right to alter the prices of any of the holidays shown in this brochure. You will be advised of the current price of your holiday before your booking is confirmed.

If you are booking on your own and request to share in a twin room with another group member of the same sex, we will do our best to find you a suitable person to share with. In the event that we fail to find you a room-sharer by the balance due date, we reserve the right to allocate you a single occupancy room and charge you the full single room price. In such circumstances we will send you a revised confirmation invoice. You have the option to:

• Pay the full price for a single occupancy room.

• Cancel your holiday without penalty and receive a refund of your deposit.

Should you not respond by the time shown on your revised confirmation invoice, we reserve the right to consider this a cancellation by you and apply cancellation charges indicated in paragraph 5 of our Booking Conditions.

Mistakes or computer errors occasionally occur, so if any price in our brochure, on our website or booking system is obviously wrong then any booking made based on that price will not be valid and we will be entitled to cancel it and give you a full refund unless you wish to pay the correct price.

From time to time, we may make offers and other booking incentives to encourage further bookings on individual holidays or categories of holiday to ensure that we have a large enough group size to make a holiday viable to run and enjoyable for the participants. Such offers will be time bounded and bookings made before or after the promotional window will not qualify for the offer.

We may change the holiday price after you have booked but only in certain circumstances. For details, see our Booking Conditions on our website at adagio.co.uk/about-us/booking-terms-andconditions

BOOKING YOUR HOLIDAY

How to book

Once you have found the holiday you want, please give us a call on 01707 386700, visit www.adagio.co.uk or see your travel agent to make your booking.

A non-refundable deposit must be paid at the time of booking of £100 for UK holidays without flights, £150 for UK holidays with flights, £250 for short-haul holidays or £350 for long-haul or Cruise & Walk holidays.

The balance of the price of your travel arrangements must be paid not later than 8 weeks before your departure date for UK holidays without flights, 10 weeks before departure for UK flight inclusive holidays and short haul holidays or 14 weeks before departure for long haul holidays. If the deposit and/or balance is

not paid in time, we shall cancel your travel arrangements. If the balance is not paid in time we shall retain your deposit and any travel insurance premium paid will be non-refundable.

Where bookings are made within 8 weeks of departure for UK holidays, 10 weeks for short haul holidays or 14 weeks for long haul holidays the whole of the holiday charge is payable at the time of booking.

Should you suffer from a mobility impairment, disability, or medical condition relevant to your participation in the holiday arrangements, this must be declared to us at or before the time of booking.

Your holiday booking

A booking will exist as soon as we issue our confirmation invoice. This booking is made on the terms of these Booking Conditions. When you make a booking you guarantee that you have the authority to accept and do accept on behalf of your party the terms of these Booking Conditions. We will only deal with you, the lead name, and you must be aged 18 or over at the time you make the booking.

You must ensure that the information you give us is correct. You must also pass on any information we give you to everyone included in the booking.

Accommodation & Meals

Our places to stay are carefully selected and accommodation is generally in standard twin or double and single bedded rooms with en suite facilities. Prices shown are based on two persons sharing a double or twin room. Hotels usually charge room supplements. Although a room for sole occupancy guarantees privacy, it may be smaller, less well-appointed or located and may contain a single, double or twin beds.

Most holidays are on a half board basis and include breakfasts (usually continental) and evening meals (or occasionally lunch). Lunch, where included, is usually a packed lunch.

Tour Leaders

Our tour leaders are qualified and resourceful individuals, and chosen for their personalities and travel experience, usually but not necessarily in the area of the holiday. They are as passionate about seeing the world on foot as you are.

Local costs and facilities

Most local transport costs and entrance fees in connection with our local programmes are included, unless otherwise stated. Please see our Holiday Information Sheets for full details. These are downloadable from the individual holiday pages of our website, available on request and issued with your booking confirmation.

Details of local facilities and expected itineraries are given in good faith but we cannot guarantee that they will always be available or unchanged. Many aspects of daily life and local services experienced in your destination, such as travel, power and water, are likely to be different to what you have come to expect at home. Every effort will always be made to overcome any unforeseen circumstances, particularly if safety is compromised.

CHANGES & CANCELLATIONS

If you cancel your holiday

You, or any member of your party, may cancel your travel arrangements at any time. If you need to cancel your holiday

you must tell us as soon as possible. Written notification from the person who made the booking or your travel agent must be received at our offices.

A failure to present yourself to participate in the holiday arrangements (no show) or to notify us of your late arrival will be considered a cancellation by you.

Since we incur costs in cancelling your travel arrangements and the risk that we will not be able to resell your holiday, you will have to pay cancellation charges as follows (see also the exception below):

traveller are responsible for paying all costs we incur in making the transfer.

If we cancel your booking

We reserve the right to cancel your booking. We may cancel your booking if the minimum number required for the package to go ahead has not been reached. We will not cancel less than 8 weeks before your departure date for UK holidays, 10 weeks before departure for short haul holidays and 14 weeks before departure for long haul holidays except for unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances, or failure by you to pay the final balance.

Unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances means a situation beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken.

If your holiday is cancelled you can either have a refund of all monies paid or accept an alternative holiday of comparable standard from us if we offer one (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value).

In the event a refund is paid to you, we will:

1. Provide a full refund of your travel insurance premiums if you paid them to us and can show that you are unable to transfer or reuse your policy.

You agree that where a surcharge is levied that is 8% or less of the original price, this will not amount to a significant change to your booking.

Should the price of your holiday go down due to the cost changes mentioned above, then any refund due will be paid to you. We will deduct from this refund our administrative expenses incurred. Please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place.

(b) Changes other than the price

It is a term of your booking that we are able to make changes to any aspect of your booking and may do so at any time. Where possible, we will inform you of any changes before your holiday.

If the change is insignificant, we will ensure that you are notified about it as soon as practicable. Examples of insignificant changes include alteration of your outward/return flights by less than 12 hours, changes to aircraft type, changes of London airports (including Gatwick, Heathrow, London City, Stansted, and Luton), change of accommodation to another of the same or higher standard, changes of carriers.

Note: If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges.

You can cancel your booking without paying cancellation charges if the performance of your package, or the carriage of passengers to your destination, is significantly affected by unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances. In such circumstances, we will arrange for your booking to be terminated and for you to receive a full refund. We will observe advice provided by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

If you change your booking

If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen holiday, departure date or standard of accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Such changes are limited to one change during the lifetime of your booking, any subsequent change will be considered a cancellation and subject to our standard cancellation terms. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the person who made the booking or your travel agent.

Should a transfer be possible, you will be asked to pay an administration charge of £20 per person (or £40 if less than 98 days before departure), and any further cost we incur in making this alteration. We will be unable to refund or credit you with any non-refundable costs relating to the original booking. Should the rebooked holiday be lower in price, we will issue a credit note for the difference that will remain valid for the period of 12 months after the date of issue.

For changes to our group flight arrangements, a flight administration fee of £35 per person will apply. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel arrangements may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

You can transfer your booking to another person, who satisfies all the conditions that apply to this booking, by giving us notice in writing at least 7 days before departure. Both you and the new

2. Pay compensation as detailed below except where the cancellation is due to unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances (see definition above). This does not exclude you from claiming more if you are entitled to do so.

If we are constrained by circumstances beyond our control to alter significantly any of the main characteristics of the travel services that make up your package you will have the rights set out below.

• We will contact you and you will have the choice of accepting the change or having a refund of all monies paid. You can also accept an alternative holiday, where we offer one (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). We will tell you the procedure for making your choice. Please read any notification of changes carefully and respond promptly as if you do not respond to us within the timescale given your booking may be cancelled.

If you choose to accept a refund: We will provide a full refund of your travel insurance premiums if you paid them to us and can show that you are unable to transfer or reuse your policy.

If we change your booking

(a) Changes to the holiday price

We can change your holiday price after you have booked, only in certain circumstances:

Changes in the price of the carriage of passengers resulting from changes to the cost of fuel or other power sources, the level of taxes or fees imposed by third parties including tourist taxes, landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports or exchange rates mean that the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked. However, there will be no change within 20 days of your departure.

We will absorb, and you will not be charged for, any increase equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, which excludes insurance premiums and any amendment charges.

You will be charged for the amount over and above that. If this results in an increase equivalent to more than 8% of the price of your travel arrangements, you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies paid, except for any amendment charges.

Should you decide to cancel:

1. You must do so within the time period shown on your final invoice.

2. We will provide a refund of insurance premiums paid to us if you can show that you are unable to transfer or reuse your policy.

We will pay compensation as detailed below except where the significant change is due to unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances, which means a situation beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken.

The compensation that we offer does not exclude you from claiming more if you are entitled to do so.

OUR LIABILITY TO YOU

You must inform us without undue delay of any failure to perform or improper performance of the travel services included in this package. If any of the travel services included in your package are not performed in accordance with the contract, or are improperly performed, by us or the travel service suppliers, and this has affected the enjoyment of your travel arrangements, you may be entitled to an appropriate price reduction or compensation or both. We will not be liable where any failure to perform or

improper performance of the travel services is due to: you or another member of your party; or a third party unconnected with the provision of the travel services in the package and is unforeseeable or unavoidable; or unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances, which means a situation beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken.

Such unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances will include the inability of airlines to operate flights (including the loss or restriction of air traffic or transit rights or the right of airlines to enter any airspace), restricted access to airports, ports, and railway stations, and changes to entry or visa requirements for British citizens travelling to or within EU member states or Schengen Area as a result of the United Kingdom’s decision to leave the European Union.

Should you wish to make a claim against us, it is your responsibility to show that we or our travel service supplier(s) have been negligent. You will need to show that reasonable care and skill has not been used. In addition, we will only be responsible for what our employees, agents and suppliers do or do not do if they were at the time acting within the course of their employment (for employees) or carrying out work we had asked them to do (for agents and suppliers).

Our liability, except in cases involving death, injury or illness, shall be limited to a maximum of three times the cost of your travel arrangements. Our liability will also be limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner to:

a) The contractual terms of the companies that provide the travel services that make up your package. These terms are incorporated into this booking; and,

b) Any relevant international convention, for example the Montreal Convention in respect of travel by air, the Athens Convention in respect of travel by sea, the Berne Convention in respect of travel by rail and the Paris Convention in respect of the provision of accommodation, which limit the amount of and conditions under which compensation can be claimed for death, injury, delay to passengers and loss, damage and delay to luggage. We are to be regarded as having all benefit of any limitation of the extent of or the conditions under which compensation is to be paid under these or any conventions.

You can ask for copies of the travel service contractual terms, or the international conventions, from our office at RWH Travel Ltd, Lemsford Mill, Lemsford Village, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 7TR.

Under Regulation UK/EC261/2004), you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensation from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to flights. Full details will be publicised at UK and EU airports and available from airlines. In such circumstances you must pursue the airline directly for any compensation or other payments which may be due to you. However, reimbursement in such cases will not automatically entitle you to a refund of your holiday cost from us. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us is set out in these booking conditions. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made to you by the airline or any other service provider will be deducted.

If it is impossible to ensure your return as scheduled due to unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances, we will bear the cost of necessary accommodation, if possible of equivalent category, for a maximum of three nights. The limit does not apply to persons with reduced mobility and any person accompanying them and pregnant women, or persons in need of specific medical assistance, provided that you notified us of these needs at least 48 hours before the start of your holiday.

Excursions

Excursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of your package holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book, your contract will be with the operator of the excursion or tour and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour or for anything that happens during the course of its provision by the operator.

Additional assistance

If you are in difficulty whilst on holiday and ask us to help, we will provide appropriate assistance, in particular by providing information on health services, local authorities, and consular assistance; and helping you to find alternative arrangements and any necessary phone calls/emails. You must pay any costs we incur if the difficulty is your fault.

ESSENTIAL TRAVEL ADVICE

Foreign travel advice

For the latest travel advice from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO Travel Advice), including security and local laws, plus passport and visa information check gov.uk/travelaware. The FCDO has also produced a Foreign Travel Checklist which can be found at: gov.uk/guidance/foreigntravel-checklist

We strongly recommend that you check the FCDO Travel Advice for up-to-date information on the countries you will be visiting before booking. The advice can change so do check regularly for updates.

Travel health advice

Current travel health advice is available at travelhealthpro.org. uk and fitfortravel.nhs.uk. If you do need inoculations to travel, please ensure that you organise these in good time before your departure.

Passport, Visa & Immigration requirements

Your specific passport and visa requirements, and other immigration requirements are your sole responsibility and you should confirm these with the relevant Embassies and/or Consulates. We do not accept any responsibility if you cannot travel or are denied entry to any country because you have not complied with any passport, visa, public health, or immigration requirements. Should we incur any costs on your behalf, fines or other financial penalties as a result of you not having the necessary travel or other documents you will reimburse us for any such costs.

PARTICIPATION & PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY

Personal responsibility

When you book your holiday with us, you accept responsibility for the proper conduct of all members of your party during your holiday. Bookings can only be accepted from persons under 18 years of age when accompanied by an adult who will be responsible for them and accompany them on all holiday activities. You agree to accept the authority and decisions of our staff, tour leaders, and local partners whilst on holiday with us.

If in the reasonable opinion of any such person(s) or any other person in a position of authority (such as, for example, an airline pilot, ship’s officer or hotel manager), your health, mobility, level of fitness or conduct at any time before or during a holiday is endangering or appears likely to endanger your health or wellbeing or any third party (including any other clients of the company) or the safe, comfortable or happy progress of the holiday, you may be excluded from all or part of the holiday and we may treat your holiday as cancelled at that moment. In such circumstances full cancellation charges will apply and no refund will be given.

If your conduct is disruptive, you will also be responsible for any costs or expenses, including legal expenses, incurred as a result. Such expenses may include the cost of diverting the aircraft or ship in which you are travelling for the purpose of removing you.

Furthermore, we shall be under no obligation whatsoever to make any refund, pay compensation or meet any costs or expenses (including but not limited to alternative accommodation and return travel arrangements) you may incur as a result of your holiday arrangements being terminated.

If you cause damage to the accommodation in which you are staying, the aircraft or vehicle in which you are travelling you must fully reimburse the accommodation, carrier or other transport supplier concerned for the cost of the damage before the end of your stay if the cost has been established by then or as soon as it has been established if later. You must indemnify us for the full amount of any claim (including legal costs) made against us by the accommodation supplier, airline or any other third party as a result. You will also be responsible for meeting any claims subsequently made against us and all costs incurred by us (including our own and the other party’s full legal costs) as a result of your actions.

You must comply with a non-smoking policy whilst travelling, when dining as a part of a group, during group meetings, and if sharing a room with an independent traveller.

Travel insurance

Except for UK residents travelling within the UK mainland, it is a condition of booking that you have valid and adequate travel insurance appropriate to the nature and destination of your holiday.

You can purchase insurance through any provider. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature of the holiday booked. Policies should include, as a minimum, cover for medical expenses, mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and not include exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities included and altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement.

You must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. UK insurance providers are unable to arrange insurance cover for you after your holiday has started. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). More information can be found on our website at: adagio.co.uk/faqs#tab-travel-insurance

Footwear, Clothing & Experience

It is your responsibility to bring proper outdoor clothing and footwear appropriate to the nature of the holiday and to choose a holiday appropriate to your fitness levels and capability. However, should you have any concerns or queries please contact us for advice.

Provision of essential personal information

It is essential that you provide us in good time with the personal details necessary to provide the holiday arrangements for you and those travelling with you. Should you decline or fail to provide us with the necessary information we will consider this a cancellation by you.

Fitness

Bookings are accepted on condition that participants are physically and mentally fit, and able to cope reasonably with the demands of the holiday without assistance from our tour leader

other party member. It is your responsibility to ensure that you and your party are aware of the nature and demands of the holiday arrangements before booking.

We reserve the right to exclude you from individual walks or activities or from the walking and activity programme as a whole if in the reasonable opinion of our tour leader your health, fitness, or the demands of the walk would be detrimental to the interests or safety of you or the group as a whole. In the event that our tour leader deems such a decision is necessary we will reasonably endeavour to make alternative arrangements but will not be liable for any additional costs incurred or to provide any refund for missed activities. We also reserve the right to refuse any booking for a holiday where we are not satisfied that the applicant’s health, fitness, or experience is appropriate to the holiday selected.

Should you suffer from a mobility impairment, disability, or medical condition relevant to your participation in the holiday arrangements this must be declared to us (in addition to any declaration made for insurance purposes) at or before the time of booking. You must advise us if any impairment, medical condition, or disability which may affect your active participation in the holiday arrangements develops after your booking has been confirmed. If we feel that we cannot meet your needs, we reserve the right to decline or cancel your booking.

In the event of illness or injury relating to you or your party, we may make such arrangements as we see fit and recover the costs thereof from you.

Cooperation & Conduct

The success of each holiday depends to a great extent on the members of the group’s abilities to participate physically and cooperate with other party members and the tour leader.

The tour leader has full authority to exclude any member, either from part of the daily programme or, in extreme cases, from the entire tour if he or she is in the leader’s reasonable opinion, either physically unable to participate, behaves in a way which is detrimental to the interests or safety of the party as a whole, is inadequately equipped, or does not have adequate travel insurance.

For more advice, see our Booking Conditions on our website at adagio.co.uk/about-us/booking-terms-and-conditions and also adagio.co.uk/faqs#tab-holiday-health-and-safety?q=what-aremy-personal-responsibilities-when-on-holiday

Language

All holidays are carried out in English. Unless travelling with an English-speaking companion, we will be unable to accept bookings from those unable to effectively communicate with the tour leader or other persons responsible for the safety and wellbeing of the group.

ABTA

We are a Member of ABTA, membership number V5094. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you ABTA’s scheme for the resolution of disputes which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. If we cannot resolve your complaint, go to www.abta.com to use ABTA’s simple procedure. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com

Complaints

If you have a complaint about any of the services included in your holiday, you must inform our tour leader without undue delay who will endeavour to put things right.

If it is not resolved locally, please follow this up within 28 days of your return home by contacting our Customer Services

Department by email at info@adagio.co.uk or by writing to us at Adagio, Lemsford Mill, Lemsford Village, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 7TR giving your booking reference and all other relevant information. Please keep your letter concise and to the point.

If you fail to follow the requirement to report your complaint in resort, we will have been deprived of the opportunity to investigate and rectify it and this may affect your rights under this booking.

CONSUMER PROTECTION

Financial protection

We provide full financial protection for our package holidays.

1. For flight-based holidays this is by way of our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 990 issued by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa.co.uk. When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.

We will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where we are not able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable).

If we are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme.

2. When you buy a package holiday that does not include a flight, protection is provided by way of a bond held by ABTA – The Travel Association, 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ, www.abta. com. You agree to accept that in the event of our insolvency ABTA may arrange for the services you have bought to continue, or for a suitable alternative to be provided at the same cost as your original booking. You also agree to accept that in circumstances where the travel service supplier provides the services you have bought, you agree to pay any outstanding sum under your contract with us to that alternative travel service provider. However, you also agree that in some cases the services will not be provided, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under ABTA’s Scheme of Protection (or your payment card issuer where applicable) for a refund of the monies you have paid

Should you be resident in an EU Member State, we are unable to book holidays including flights from your home country.

Privacy

We are committed to protecting the personal information provided to us when you or those traveling with you contact us, book a holiday or travel with us. We keep the information for a period which allows us to manage your holiday arrangements, respond to queries or complaints and endeavour to properly assist you

when booking your holiday. We are required to keep some basic information about those who travel with us for up to seven years after they last travel with us. See our Privacy Notice at ramblersholidays.co.uk/about-us/data-protection-and-privacy

Consumer protection

The combination of travel services offered to you is a package within the meaning of the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018. Therefore, you will benefit from all EU rights applying to packages. Ramblers Walking Holidays will be fully responsible for the proper performance of the package as a whole.

A copy of this legislation may be found at www.legislation.gov.uk/ ukdsi/2018/9780111168479/contents

Additionally, as required by law, Adagio has protection in place to refund your payments and, where transport is included in the package, to ensure your repatriation in the event that it becomes/ they become insolvent.

Details of your Key Rights under the Package Travel Regulations

2018 can be found at adagio.co.uk/faqs#tab-consumerprotection?q=what-are-my-rights

Validity

The information published in this brochure on 29th September 2022, supersedes all previous versions.

explore the world gently

CONTACT US:

For enquiries about all our destinations and to make a booking, contact our Sales & Reservations Team on: Tel: 01707 386700

Email: customerservice@rwhtravel.com

Post: Adagio, Lemsford Mill, Lemsford Village, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 7TR. Web: www.adagio.co.uk

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Take you and your feet

Don’t just take our word for it...

Here’s what some fellow travellers had to say about their 2022 holiday experiences:

“Lazy Alps is the perfect holiday for those wishing to take their time exploring nature as intended. A most experienced and supportive group leader able to impart local knowledge and walking with like-minded people can and does make such a holiday rewarding in every way. Well done Adagio!”

ANTHONY, THE LAZY ALPS

“This was a great holiday. It was varied, interesting and we had good food and company. The holiday and the trips were very well organised.”

ALISON, FLAVOURS OF HIDDEN SPAIN

“Two beautiful resorts in the Dolomites; brilliant hotels with amazing food; leader who had exceptional organisation and social skills made it really relaxing and the walks went to stunningly beautiful places.”

CHRISTINA, DUE SETTIMANE IN THE DOLOMITES

“Excellent, well-planned trip with just the correct amount of walking for an Adagio Plus holiday.”

MARGARET, THE ZUGSPITZ ARENA

“It was like stepping back into the past with a slower pace of life. The gardens on Sark were amazing. The walks were easy. It was a relaxing holiday.”

BARBARA, GARDENS OF THE CHANNEL ISLANDS

Adagio, Lemsford Mill, Lemsford Village, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 7TR, UK

tel: +44 (0)1707 386700 email: info@adagio.co.uk www.adagio.co.uk

Please don’t hesitate to call us if you have any queries about a proposed holiday.