Discover THE GREAT OUTDOORS - 2018 BRITAIN, EUROPE & WORLDWIDE WALKING & OUTDOOR HOLIDAYS - HF Holidays
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discover THE GREAT OUTDOORS 2018 BRITAIN, EUROPE & WORLDWIDE WALKING & OUTDOOR HOLIDAYS
CONTENTS
for the love of the
OPEN AIR
DISCOVER HF HOLIDAYS
4 | 6 REASONS TO CHOOSE
HF HOLIDAYS
6 | THE STORY OF HF HOLIDAYS
As I spend more time being part of 7 EARLY BOOKING OFFERS
HF Holidays, I fall deeper in love with the 8 | WALKING YOUR WAY
great outdoors. Step out, feel the wind 12 | WONDERFUL PLACES TO STAY
on your face, gaze down on valleys and
14 | FLAVOURS OF BRITAIN
streams, sidestep a cow, or beat the windy
moors. Somehow life just feels good! DISCOVER WAYS TO WALK
I certainly consider myself lucky to be part of a team 16 | GUIDED WALKING
of people who want to share their passion and 18 | SELF-GUIDED WALKING
encourage people out into the fresh air to take in
the beauty of our natural world. 20 | WEEKEND GETAWAYS
Whether you are putting on your boots for the first 22 | CHALLENGE YOURSELF
time, long to conquer a mountain, hop across Scottish 24 | JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY FROM
islands, meander alongside a bubbling Alpine brook or COAST TO COAST
see the wonders of the world, my team has set out to
26 | ISLAND HOPPING HOLIDAYS
provide the perfect walking holiday for you.
28 | UNCOVER BRITAIN’S HERITAGE
There simply is no better way to see the world. Discover ON FOOT
that corner of the UK you have always wanted, feel
the Mediterranean sun on your back, or enjoy the 30 | WILDLIFE ON OUR DOORSTEP
view from Table Mountain having truly earned it. 32 | CAPTURE NEW MEMORIES
I hope you enjoy our new 2018 brochure – with 34 | EXPLORE WITH THE KIDS
100 years’ experience under our belt, we know
36 | GREAT FOR GROUPS
the great pleasure to be gained from seeing
the world at walking pace, and we would love 37 | LEISURE ACTIVITIES TOURS
to share it with you. & HOLIDAYS
DISCOVER FURTHER AFIELD
38 | NEW EUROPEAN & WORLDWIDE
HOLIDAYS FOR 2018
JIM FORWARD 40 | ITALIAN CLASSICS
Chief Executive 42 | DISCOVER DRAMATIC DESERTS
HOLIDAY DATES & PRICES
44 | HOLIDAYS IN BRITAIN
FIND OUT MORE ON OUR WEBSITE 74 | EUROPEAN HOLIDAYS
Feeling inspired by one of our features and want more
information? Each holiday has a 5-letter trip code – 92 | WORLDWIDE JOURNEYS
enter it at hfholidays.co.uk to discover more about it
HOW TO BOOK
Member of Call 0345 470 7558
Visit hfholidays.co.uk
Front cover: Buttermere in Email reservations@hfholidays.co.uk
the Northern Lake District
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Derwent Water in the 6 REASONS TO CHOOSE HF HOLIDAYS
Northern Lake District
2. Superb accommodation in
great walking locations
Dolserau Hall, Dolgellau
6 reasons to choose All of our 18 country houses are located within
HF HOLIDAYS
National Parks or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty,
putting you at the heart of wonderful walking destinations.
There’s no better way to end a day’s walk than by
returning to a welcoming, comfortable base filled with
everything needed to help you unwind and relax. Every
location offers all the essentials for walkers – delicious
food, a warm welcome, a comfy bed and boot and drying
rooms for your kit. Our country houses really do provide Hotel Anastasia, Evia
the perfect place to recount tales from the day, unwind
Unmatched knowledge of the great outdoors, with friends and recharge your batteries.
over 100 years of holiday experience and a If you stay further afield, you’ll enjoy one of our carefully
selected partner hotels. A warm welcome, mouthwatering
focus on flexibility and choice make us the food and friendly atmosphere contribute to making your
ideal walking break provider. stay special. Many of our partner hotels are family-run,
and give you the opportunity to stay with people who live
and breathe the area. The handpicked accommodation
often features little extras like cosy lounges, swimming
pools, spas and local beaches.
3. Giving you choice
and flexibility
Our holidays are all about providing you with freedom of choice and
flexibility at great prices.
Our UK breaks have a choice of up to three walks each day, while our
European holidays have a choice of two routes. You’re free to pick
your walk difficulty every morning, so you go wherever the mood
takes you! And when it comes to our popular Worldwide Journeys,
our comprehensive itineraries ensure you see everything your
chosen country has to offer. We also give you great choice when it
comes to the flights, too. Our holidays are available with or without
flights and transfers with options to fly directly from your local
airport – so you can tailor your travel plans to best fit your needs.
4. Award-winning
and trusted 5. We’re different 6. Great value with
so much included
We’re proud to have been chosen as We’re the UK’s only holiday Our early booking offers ensure
a Which? Recommended Provider for co-operative and over 36,000 you get the best breaks at the best
Holiday Companies, awarded five stars members own HF Holidays, with no prices if you book with us before
1. Experts in adventure
for over 100 years
across the board. We are consistently
rated high by our guests on Feefo (the
independent online feedback supplier)
and all our guided holidays are
big corporate shareholders. You can
become a member too and get
holiday reward points on every break
you book, which can be used as
29 December 2017 (see page 7 for
more details). Whenever you book
with us, you can be sure all the
essentials and more are included:
protected by ABTOT and ATOL. payment towards future holidays. Full board accommodation at all
When you choose to holiday with us, you Leave all the planning and navigation to us You’ll also get a host of other great our UK country houses
know you’re in great hands. Our team of and enjoy discovering the great outdoors in benefits, including discounts at At least half board accommodation
experienced leaders are specially selected for the company of your fellow guests. Cotswold Outdoor and annual on most other breaks
their skills and knowledge. From a history buff interest on your shares.
It’s not just knowledgeable leaders that set us Transport to and from walks and
with unmatched insight into an area, to an
apart – it’s the people who put the breaks For more information see page 95. activities on all guided holidays
adventurous guide perfectly placed to help
together in the first place. Our experienced
you navigate the most challenging terrain,
team knows exactly what our guests enjoy
our leaders will help you create a walking break
and take great pleasure scouring the UK and
to remember by uncovering the local treasures
further afield to find the best walking routes
that the guidebooks don’t tell you about.
and hidden gems.
4 | Enter the trip code at hfholidays.co.uk to find out more about a holiday Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk | 5
THE STORY OF HF HOLIDAYS EARLY BOOKING OFFERS
2018 holiday
OFFERS BOOK BY 29 DECEMBER 2017
OUR COUNTRY SAVE UP TO SAVE UP TO
£100 £75
HOUSES * *
We guarantee to give you the best deal
on your holiday when you book early.
Book a 2018 break at one of our 18 off a 7 night UK holiday off a 3 or 4 night UK holiday
country houses by 29 December 2017 Full board price from £579 Full board price from £240
to make great savings. per person with discount per person with discount
PREMIUM ROOMS STAY FOR LONGER
50% £50
* *
SAVE SAVE AN
UP TO EXTRA
off premium room upgrades when you book two consecutive
the story
at our 18 country houses when you book before 7 night UK holidays
29 December 2017. See page 12 for more at our 18 country houses when you book before
information about our premium room package. 29 December 2017. Quote code MULTI when booking.
OF HF HOLIDAYS UK FAMILY ADVENTURES EUROPEAN HOLIDAYS
& WORLDWIDE JOURNEYS
FREE WIN
* †
Just over 100 years ago our founder, Thomas one of Britain’s first overseas tour operators.
Arthur Leonard, created an organisation with a Our range now spans the globe, with over UNDER YOU
HF Holidays has a proud simple mission – to get people into the great 100 destinations across six continents. 18s GO COULD
outdoors. We’ve been doing this ever since.
history spanning over From simple beginnings, we’ve expanded our We’re also proud to be a co-operative on our UK Family Walking Adventures back the cost of your holiday
100 years. During a range of destinations and today over 50,000 society, which means we are owned by
at our country houses when you book before when you book a 2018 European
our 36,000 members, with no corporate
century of changes, the guests trust us with their holiday.
shareholders. 29 December 2017. Thereafter under 11s go FREE holiday or Worldwide Journey.
ethos at the heart of our In Britain, our country houses have always been and you’ll get 50% off for 11-17 year olds. Draw to be made 31 January 2018.
at the heart of what we do. We currently have Much has changed over the last 100 years,
holidays has remained but our founding philosophy remains.
18 houses, situated in the very best walking
the same as it was in locations. From the dramatic coasts of Dorset Fresh air, inspiring locations, great walks
and relaxed, friendly company are why
1913 – exceptional and Cornwall, to the towering mountains of
the Lake District and Scotland, we offer generations of guests love to discover We promise that our earliest published prices will always be the best, and if we NO CREDIT CARD
walking experiences in awe-inspiring destinations that will stir the soul. the world with us. reduce our holiday price after your booking has been confirmed, we will pass this CHARGES FOR 2018 ‡
beautiful locations. Read our full story at hfholidays.co.uk/history
reduction on to you. Our price promise applies as long as any subsequent offer
price is for an identical holiday, duration, location and date, and does not cover
We will not charge any additional fees
Leonard always had wider ambitions. We ran when paying for your 2018 holiday by
our first European holiday in 1914, making us any optional extras, flights or additional services. credit card.
*Terms & conditions apply. Offer prices shown are for 7 and 3 nights at Lulworth Cove on 9 February 2018. 50% off twin and double premium room upgrades only.
Visit our website for full details or see pages 45 & 71. † Terms & conditions apply – draw to be made 31 January 2018. ‡Fees will still apply for business credit cards.
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WALKING YOUR WAY
walking YOUR WAY
Our walking holidays offer so many
ways to explore the world on foot…
GUIDED WALKING
IN THE UK
Our most popular holiday type, with a choice of up to three walks every day,
gives you the opportunity to discover stunning walking locations. From the
rolling Cotswold Hills to the purple-clad high moors of North Yorkshire and
the airy, granite cliffs of the Cornish coast with its pounding surf below,
there is something to suit everyone.
Every location is different, and our easy to use grading system makes sense
of the tremendous variety of terrain in the UK and advises on difficulty level.
Just enjoy a full day’s walking with fellow guests and leave all the planning and
navigation to us; it’s what we do best. Nobody knows the UK’s best places to
walk like HF Holidays and our knowledgeable leaders make sure you’re never
short of the inside story on local features, viewpoints and places of interest.
VARIATIONS ON GUIDED WALKING
We also offer variations on Guided Walking. Look out for the below icons on each
holiday page to see which country houses offer these breaks (see page 46 onwards).
OUTDOOR CLASSIC
ESCAPES BREAKS
Redress your work-life balance with a These breaks are rich with the traditions MEET NICK
few days or more of specially tailored of HF Holidays. Stretch your legs on
EXCEPTIONAL ONE OF OUR UK LEADERS
walks with plenty of time to relax. one of our three daily walks, then
Discover the hidden gems of Shropshire with me.
Easier walk choices often include spend the evenings relaxing over WALKS LEADERS With 25 years of local knowledge under my belt,
some sightseeing, harder ones dial dinner or enjoying quizzes, games,
Our walking holiday leaders are dedicated to I’ll help you uncover the fascinating history and
up the challenge. dancing and more.
what they do. Their experience, enthusiasm and superb landscapes of this delightful county.
FESTIVE WALKING common love of the great outdoors is the perfect
WALKING FOR SOLOS combination to make our walking holidays the best
Our UK country houses provide the Join adventurous individuals, enjoy on offer. Whether they’re walking amidst the green MEET DAVE
hills of England, the Alpine meadows of Austria, ONE OF OUR EUROPE LEADERS
perfect backdrop for our guests to the great outdoors and make new
really get into the festive spirit. We pull friends. We’re the ideal choice for solo or the lush rainforests of Madagascar, our walking I love leading in the Alps, where I can share my
out all the stops, with fabulous festive travellers because there are no extra guides have a passion for the great outdoors. All passion and knowledge of this outstanding area
food and lots of seasonal entertainment, charges for our standard single, twin have passed our rigorous assessment, so you can with our guests. We’ll also be sure to find the best
as well as great walks and activities. or double rooms on these breaks. be confident that you’re in safe hands. mountain huts for well-deserved drinks and cake!
And our holidays are so much more than just
SPRING & WINTER SUMMER AT
WALKING DOVEDALE
walking. Leaders join our UK country house teams
to ensure our guests have a sociable and enjoyable
MEET SANDY
The ever-changing UK countryside Choose a break with a difference on a ONE OF OUR WORLDWIDE LEADERS
holiday from start to finish.
takes on a unique beauty when the summertime trip to Dovedale! Stay I adore travelling the world and uncovering amazing
seasons change. Our spring and during July and August to enjoy a daily If you are interested in becoming an HF Holidays landscapes and fascinating wildlife. I love sharing my
winter breaks offer a choice of two choice of guided walks, sightseeing leader see page 95 for more details. knowledge of an area, and strive to enrich every
walks, specially selected for the tours or leisure activities. Visit our guest’s holiday experience.
season, and will include a hot lunch in website to find out what’s on offer
a cosy pub or tearoom. each week.
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WALKING YOUR WAY
FURTHER AFIELD
Other ways to explore
the UK on foot
WALKING WITH ADVENTURE EUROPEAN
SIGHTSEEING WALKS HOLIDAYS
Explore the culture, heritage and landscapes This is the pinnacle of our adventurous Travel with us to Europe and discover Guided Walking
of the UK’s most beautiful towns and villages breaks. You’ll be heading to Britain’s highest our wide range of destinations in the Guided Walking & Sightseeing
with the perfect mix of guided walks and mountains to climb the most challenging company of our experienced leaders. Self-guided Walking
sightseeing visits. Discover Britain on some ridges, scrambles and summits our country With landscapes ranging from crystal Multi-centre Holidays
fantastic short walks, visiting places of interest has to offer walkers. These breaks offer clear Alpine lakes set among jagged
High Routes
and immersing yourself in an area while your serious adventure for experienced hill walkers mountain tops through to Mediterranean
island vistas stretching as far as the eye Guided Trails
knowledgeable leader brings local landmarks with a head for heights. See page 22 for
can see, Europe offers something for City Breaks
and legends to life. See page 28 for more details. more details.
everyone. Culture-filled cities, historic Discovery Tours
villages, volcanic trails and awe-inspiring Leisure Activities
GUIDED TRAILS LIMITED DISCOVERY mountain ranges lie in wait for those Family Adventures
& ISLAND HOPPING EDITIONS PHOTOGRAPHY TOURS who want to enjoy an adventure with a
difference. You could try… To discover more about our European
holidays see pages 38 & 40.
Complete UK trails along historic routes and These wonderful themed breaks are designed Capture the world through a lens and get the Immerse yourself in the history and culture
past renowned landmarks. Tackle long by our very own outdoor enthusiasts to provide very best out of your camera and picture of the British Isles from the comfort of a
distance paths or island hop across Britain’s you with unique holidays across the very best editing software on these inspirational private mini-coach. Stop to look at the
finest scenery – the perfect blend of of the British Isles. The choice is as varied as photography holidays at stunning locations wonderful views, stretch your legs with an
challenge and inspiration. Stay at our country the levels of walking – but you’re guaranteed across the UK. Perfect for those who want optional short walk, explore quaint chocolate
houses or selected hotels – relax while we take to see the UK’s finest areas, hidden secrets to combine their love of walking with a box villages and visit museums, historic
care of the luggage transfers for you. See and walking challenges. These breaks are only passion for photography. See page 32 for buildings and gardens.
pages 24 & 26 for more details. around for a limited time – don’t miss out! more details.
NATURAL FAMILY
WORLD ADVENTURES
Unravel the awe-inspiring mysteries of the Spend time as a family in the great outdoors!
vast night sky, step back in time to walk Your children can enjoy exploring fabulous WORLDWIDE
with dinosaurs, reconnect with nature while locations and making friends on these vibrant, JOURNEYS
birdwatching or uncover the incredible family-friendly breaks. Games led by our
hidden world of forest fungi. There’s a leaders add even more fun to the mix, while
When it comes to walking holidays with us, you really do have the whole world at your
fascinating world of wildlife, geology and our “activities hour” adds crafts, sports and
feet! We give our guests the opportunity to explore six continents, treating them to a
astronomy waiting for you to discover. challenges to keep your children entertained.
diverse range of landscapes, cultures, cuisines and wildlife. Rainforest exploration, desert
See page 30 for more details. See page 34 for more details.
treks, mountain hikes and wilderness discovery – whatever destination you fancy for
SELF-GUIDED your next getaway, we’ve got the perfect holiday for you. Our knowledgeable and friendly
WEEKEND NAVIGATION WALKING leaders will help immerse you in each area’s unique charms. See page 42 for more details.
CHALLENGES SKILLS
Spend your holiday doing whatever
you fancy; visit local places of interest,
Rise to the occasion on one of our exhilarating Get the confidence to explore more of our
take a relaxing stroll or try something
challenges for ambitious walkers. You’ll need stunning countryside, even if you have little to
more challenging. All of our country
to be fit or commit to getting fit in time for no experience of navigation! Our expert leaders
houses have a Discovery Point with Getting away as a group
maximum enjoyment. These are big walks but will show you how to relate your map to the
maps, guidebooks and local walks We’ve got years of experience working with groups, helping organisers plan and book
you can rest assured that the bragging rights ground, estimate distance and time, use your
directions to make the most of your their holiday with the greatest ease. You qualify for great group rates if you’re booking
are all yours when you cross the finishing line. compass, and plan the perfect countryside
stay. See page 18 for more details. for 10 or more paying adults. See page 36 for more details.
See page 22 for more details. walk – giving you the skills you need to get out
and enjoy everything the UK has to offer.
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Derwent Bank, Derwentwater WONDERFUL PLACES TO STAY
FURTHER AFIELD
wonderful places
TO STAY
European holidays & Worldwide Journeys
We carefully select our partner hotels to ensure you have the best base for
your walking holiday. We are proud to have a great variety, offering authentic
tastes of your chosen destination. Here are a few of our favourites…
MEET MATTHEW
OUR HEAD OF UK HOTEL OPERATIONS
We’re extremely proud of the 18 country houses that we COASTAL ESCAPES MOUNTAIN GETAWAYS
own and manage across the UK. Our hard-working house
teams strive to ensure that you’ll always have the best Portugal, Ericeira Germany, Tegernsee
experience when staying with us, giving you the perfect The Hotel Vila Galé Ericeira boasts The Hotel Terrassenhof combines
place to relax after a great day’s walking. a great setting on the Atlantic Coast stunning mountain views with a
and just minutes from the traditional setting on the edge of pretty Lake
Portuguese centre of Ericeira. Tegernsee.
Our UK country houses
tailored to walkers Llety Gwestai
Guest Accommodation
Each of our 18 country houses has its own
individual character – from elegant Georgian
mansions to charming seaside houses – and are ROLLING COUNTRYSIDE HEART OF THE CITY
set within National Parks or Areas of Outstanding
Natural Beauty. See page 45 for our UK locations. Italy, Montelupo Poland, Krakow
Highly rated by our guests, the Hotel Hotel Maksymilian is a 3-star
All of our country houses are perfect for walkers.
Ca’Del Lupo is nestled in a peaceful hotel located near the famous
At the end of each day you can take advantage of
location overlooking vineyards and monuments and landmarks that
our boot room and drying facilities before enjoying
Premium room at offers excellent local cuisine. make Krakow such a popular city.
facilities like swimming pools, relaxing gardens, free
Larpool Hall, Whitby
WiFi and more. Ongoing refurbishments, meanwhile,
mean our country houses just keep getting better! For more information about our European holidays see page 74
We pride ourselves on our outstanding
accommodation, and that’s reflected in the
numerous awards we’ve won from independent
quality assessors who rate the welcome, hospitality, ALL ABOARD
food and cleanliness. And our dedication to
sustainability means many of our houses have Vietnam
already been given a Green Tourism award – As well as wonderful hotels,
something we’re very proud of as we love the Standard room at you’ll also be able to enjoy two
Craflwyn Hall, Snowdon nights’ cruising on our deluxe
British countryside just the way it is!
Paradise boat in the stunning
Halong Bay.
TRADITIONAL INN
TREAT YOURSELF
TO A ROOM UPGRADE
Japan – Imperial Discovery
SAVE UP TO
50%
Truly immerse yourself in the
* Make your stay extra special by rich cultural heritage of this
choosing a premium room from only fascinating nation by spending
an extra £15 per person per night.
the night in a ryokan, a
Rooms are selected for their extra
off premium size or exceptional views, and include:
traditional Japanese inn.
room upgrades
Early check in from 1pm Welcome For full dates & prices for our Worldwide Journeys see page 92
See page 7 for details
gift Fluffy bathrobe & slippers
32 inch TV Luxurious mattress
Enhanced toiletries
BOOK BY
29 DECEMBER 2017 Find out more about our upgrades at
hfholidays.co.uk/upgrade For details on all our destinations across the world
visit hfholidays.co.uk/destinations
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FLAVOURS OF BRITAIN
FLAVOURS OF
britain CATERING
FOR YOUR
NEEDS
Stay at our country houses ethically farmed. We only use local vegetable
suppliers and, at our coastal locations, fish
and be treated to excellent comes from the local port where we often
food that fuels your body and know the name of the boat’s captain!
We want to ensure all our
tantalises your tastebuds From delicious Welsh lamb through to guests enjoy the same great
sumptuous seafood on the south coast, we
from the moment you get up. ensure we make the most of our country
dining experience when they
stay with us, regardless of
houses’ great locations! We’re committed to their dietary needs. We’re
We know our guests love good food and we
consistently delivering quality food but this proud to say all of our country houses
recognise that it is one of the most important
isn’t just about choosing the best ingredients have officially received Gluten Free (GF)
aspects when on holiday. We therefore pay
– it’s also about the thought that goes into accreditation from Coeliac UK – the only
particular attention to providing cuisine that
creating each meal. hotel operator to have done so.
stands out for its quality, flavour and
provenance. Our chefs work closely with Take our packed lunches, for example. Our Food and Beverage Manager Simon Cox said:
suppliers to source the best produce and our guests are walking long distances over several “All our chefs have been trained in a whole
menus reflect the seasons, so we keep food hours, and we need to ensure they have the range of dietary needs, including gluten-free.
miles down and select ingredients according right food to keep them going throughout It is extremely important that we are able to
to what’s growing in local fields. their day’s explorations, no matter how far that provide a food culture within our country
may be. Created by walkers, for walkers, they houses that gives all our guests confidence
Every day at our UK country houses starts with
feature healthy snacks bursting with in the food they are eating, not only to offer
a delicious cooked breakfast. We focus on the
slow-release carbs to give our guests a steady the same quality, but to respect their dietary
best ingredients right from the off – British
stream of energy throughout the whole day. wishes and needs.”
Lion stamped eggs, sausages specially
Fresh sandwiches, homemade flapjacks and
created for us by nearby butchers and locally Our country houses offer an excellent
more make this a packed lunch to remember!
produced jams and marmalade make selection of home-cooked menu choices
breakfast time something special. for all meals as well as gluten-free packed
To find out more information visit lunches and snacks – perfect fuel for a
This focus on quality continues to the evening day’s exploring.
hfholidays.co.uk/food
meals. Meat travels a short distance and is
Q&A
All holidays at our UK country Q How important is good food to Q Do you concentrate on Q What would you say is your
houses are full board with HF Holidays’ guests? Welsh cuisine or international dishes signature dish?
all this is included in your at Dolgellau?
holiday price: A Very! Holidays are all about indulgence A My signature dish is an assiette of
and treats so they expect the highest A I take classic Welsh dishes and give Welsh lamb – herb and pistachio-crusted
Delicious cooked breakfast standards; it’s not just about replacing them a modern twist. We pride ourselves on rack, crispy braised belly, miniature
Extensive picnic lunch
WITH SEAN, OUR calories they might burn up if they are out quality produce, from our world-renowned Shepherd’s pie with creamed leeks and
3-course evening meal CHEF AT DOLSERAU and about. We focus on classic dishes cooked salt marsh lamb, Welsh black beef, Swansea home-smoked bacon, roast celeriac purée,
with modern techniques, fuelling our guests potato & leek terrine, charred asparagus and
Afternoon tea on arrival day HALL, DOLGELLAU while creating anticipation at mealtimes.
bay cockles and Menai Bridge mussels to
rosemary gravy.
simple winter leeks and summer samphire.
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GUIDED WALKING
1 2
CHOOSING THE LEVEL
OF YOUR WALKS
GUIDED
Our easy grading system shows
whether a region offers gentle strolls
or more challenging routes to help you
choose the right holiday for you.
WALKING
Walk at a relaxed pace,
often visiting places of
interest along the route. Distances are
quite short and paths and gradients
generally easy.
Good paths but walks are
generally longer. Some
from coastal strolls walks, particularly in mountain areas,
may have sections over rough or
steeper terrain.
to mountain hikes Well-defined paths, often
in upland areas and along
rugged coasts, which may be rough
or steep and will require reasonable
fitness.
Long distances in remote
countryside and rough
terrain. Sustained ascents and descents
and occasional sections of scree and
some steep ground.
Good fitness and stamina
required. Expect rocky
terrain, sustained ascents & descents,
and some easy scrambling. You’ll need
a good head for heights.
Higher levels of fitness and
stamina required. Expect
long, strenuous walks, difficult
mountain terrain and some scrambling.
Check out each holiday page for more
information on walks, distances and
3
terrain (see page 44 onwards).
Andy, part of our Scottish Highlands via the Welsh mountains
UK walks planning and the beautiful Lake and Peak Districts,
team, is based in we know we’ve got a walk for everyone. ANDY’S TOP THREE PICKS...
The UK is lucky enough our Lake District
office. Here he “Each of our Guided Walking breaks offers a
to boast a breadth of discusses the joys choice of up to three walks a day, ranging 1 Coast 2 Moorlands 3 Mountains
from nice and easy through to more
landscapes from shoreline of Guided Walking
challenging. Our handy swingometers show NORTH YORK MOORS WESTERN YORKSHIRE DALES NORTHERN LAKE DISTRICT
with HF Holidays.
paths to mountain-top you what sort of difficulty to expect from WHITBY SEDBERGH DERWENTWATER
trails and all things in “Everyone is different, and so is the style of each walk, and you’re free to pick a different I love Whitby for its fish and chips on the Sedbergh is one of those special moorland The view over Buttermere and Crummock
walking they enjoy. Walking holidays in the level each day – see how you feel each seafront, watching the world go by after a places, from the sleepy village at the foot of Waters is unbeatable, while the leafy
between. With 18 country UK for me are all about getting back to morning and choose whichever route fulfilling clifftop hike. The far reaching views the Howgills to the expansive views from riverside Borrowdale walk is dreamlike.
houses at the heart of nature and escaping the daily grind, and that you fancy! filled with tweeting pipits and barbling curlews The Calf. I love Sedbergh for its sheep-filled But it’s the mountain tops, especially on
can be anywhere. It may well be a leisurely among the heather and fescues of the North valleys, the odd stone barn, long reaching, a squally day, that give me the greatest
Britain’s finest destinations, stroll along a lakeshore path with my family, “And it wouldn’t be a guided holiday without Yorkshire Moors are really special, as are the whale-backed rolling hills and the perfect sense of achievement upon reaching
and walks to suit all levels, a bracing walk across coastal clifftops or a our experienced leaders. With an in-depth clifftop views into Robin Hoods Bay. pint in a quaint Dales pub. the summit.
knowledge of the area, they’re perfect for
we have the perfect Guided challenging scramble up a lofty fell. This
giving you a new insight into popular
wonderful island offers the chance to
Guided Walking Guided Walking
Guided Walking
Walking holiday for you. WYBOB SDBOB DBBOB
explore the way you want to. locations as well as taking you beyond the from £325 per person from £325 per person from £325 per person
usual tourist hot-spots to enjoy exhilarating
“By offering destinations everywhere from walks, historic sites and hidden gems that
Cornwall and the south coast right up to the the guidebooks don’t tell you about.” For full dates & prices see page 44
16 | Enter the trip code at hfholidays.co.uk to find out more about a holiday Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk | 17
SELF-GUIDED WALKING
self-guided
FURTHER AFIELD
WALKING
Fancy discovering the UK’s how far you feel like walking that day, pick your
route card off the wall, lace up your boots and
finest locations at your own head off! These walks have been prepared
pace? Then our wonderful by our experienced leaders, so you can still
benefit from their knowledge of the area while
Self-guided Walking holidays exploring at your own pace.
are for you. SELF-GUIDED
And NEW for 2018, self-guided guests
All of our 18 country houses welcome who enjoy their technology can try out our WALKING
self-guided walkers, so you can enjoy the Viewranger app. Like a sat-nav for walkers, this
powerful app lets you download thousands of
ACROSS EUROPE
same diverse array of scenery, culture, history
and wildlife as the rest of our guests, but with route guides to help you discover the best of
the freedom to explore wherever and the area. Directions at your fingertips are
great, but it gets even better than that – point If you prefer to get off the beaten
whenever you choose.
your phone at the surrounding landscapes track a little further afield, why not
Each of our houses has a Discovery Point and it will highlight all the places of interest, head across to Europe? We’ll send
packed with a huge selection of local walks for including telling you how far away they are you five carefully planned walks that
you to explore. All you need to do is decide from your current spot. highlight your chosen area’s finest
things, and transport passes or car hire
are included to help you explore easily.
Try our Self-guided Walking
holidays in:
Spain, Lanzarote
Malta, Mellieha
Switzerland, Adelboden
Austria, Mayrhofen
Austria, Weidach
MEET JOHN
OUR UK WALKING GERMANY
PRODUCT MANAGER TEGERNSEE
Discover Germany’s
I live for the great outdoors! My Lake pre-Alpine region
District base is perfect for reaching of accessible foothills with
so many of Britain’s glorious upland fantastic mountain backdrops.
landscapes, and I head for the Scottish
Highlands or Northumberland as TGLAL from £759 per person
often as I can. My best adventures are
finding somewhere new with my other
half, working it out for ourselves and
not knowing what we might find. For more information about our
European holidays see page 74
For full dates & prices see page 44
18 | Enter the trip code at hfholidays.co.uk to find out more about a holiday Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk | 19WEEKEND GETAWAYS
WEEKEND OUTDOOR
ESCAPES
getaways Whether you want just a few days
away or a longer holiday, our new
Outdoor Escapes offer an insight
into where you are staying, from
delicious food to fascinating wildlife and
There’s no better way to forget the stress of the working history – and maybe a challenging hike!
week than by lacing up your boots and swapping the SOUTH DOWNS SHROPSHIRE HILLS SOUTHERN YORKSHIRE
office for the great outdoors! You can get away more ABINGWORTH CHURCH STRETTON DALES MALHAMDALE
easily than you might think – see our top picks for
54 miles from 48 miles from 50 miles from
spending a few days exploring… Location: London Location: Birmingham Location: Manchester
Area of Outstanding
Area status: National Park Area status: Area status: National Park
Natural Beauty
Beachy Head and the Escape the crowds ackle one of Yorkshire’s
T
Seven Sisters – white and explore Darnford Three Peaks, and enjoy
Our top walk: cliffs, blue seas and the Our top walk: Valley and the ‘Golden Our top walk: fabulous views from the
green of the Downs Valley’ summit of Pen-y-ghent.
A stroll through ancient An indulgent Spanish The lightning fast So what’s different
woodland to the top of hot chocolate at Berry’s peregrine falcons about these breaks?
Don’t miss: Don’t miss: Don’t miss: diving through the
Newtimber Hill for Coffee House in the
amazing views heart of Church Stretton skies at Malham Cove Flexibility, choice and time to relax are
at the core of our Outdoor Escapes
breaks, with three unmissable guided
Stride out along the rolling hills and magnificent Nicknamed “Little Switzerland”, the rolling hills Renowned for its warm welcome and options to get outdoors on each day.
chalk cliffs of the South Downs. Follow the around Church Stretton offer fabulous wonderful walks, the Yorkshire Dales will
crest of the downs to Devil’s Dyke and viewpoints in all directions. charm you with its choice of landscapes. You may start your break with a
Ditchling Beacon before reaching the shore at lie-in and a short walk, before upping
The heather-clad Long Mynd offers superb If you’re looking for a challenge, explore the the ante on day two with a more
the famous cliffs of the Seven Sisters. Admire
walks at all levels among steep-sided valleys famous peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and challenging trek – climb the Langdale
breathtaking panoramas far out over the
and high up on the open moor, direct from our Ingleborough. If you prefer a more relaxed Pikes in the Lake District, walk a
English Channel as you breathe in the sea air.
country house. Further afield, enjoy stone pace, then a riverside stroll visiting villages, tea section of the South West Coast Path
This wildlife-rich chalk downland is a colourful circles, stunning medieval architecture and the shops and country pubs is for you. in Cornwall, and more. End the day in a
tapestry of historic villages, thatched incongruous mountainous terrain of the pub or café for a well-deserved drink!
The huge rock amphitheatre of Malham Cove
cottages, pastoral landscapes of sweeping Stiperstones ridge, just a short ascent from
– once a waterfall to rival Niagara Falls – and You could even try something by
cornfields and market towns. the valley bottom.
the scenic cascades of Gordale Scar, are a yourselves – house teams, leaders and
From strolls discovering the grandeur of Be inspired by the history of this border snapshot of the wealth of natural wonders Discovery Points offer inspiration for
Capability Brown’s gardens at Petworth to county, and the charm of storied towns such nearby. Whether you’re seeking solitude and sightseeing or a self-guided walk or ride.
walks winding their way along the pretty as Much Wenlock (birthplace of the modern wilderness or the charm of cobbled streets in
Rother and Arun river valleys, this gentle Olympic Games). Discover Iron Age hillforts, the quaint villages of Grassington and So, redress your work-life balance and
landscape is a world for relaxing and walking fortresses and castles, medieval towns and Kettlewell, the quiet homely beauty of the boot up for a few days away from it all!
your cares away. scenic steam railways. Yorkshire Dales will have you hooked. Look out for the icon on each holiday
page to see which country houses offer
these breaks (see page 46 onwards).
Guided Walking
Guided Walking
Guided Walking
AWBOB CSBOB MDBOB
from £325 per person from £325 per person from £325 per person
City break
FURTHER AFIELD
Lovely weekend – CROATIA, DUBROVNIK
excellent short holiday. This bustling seaport city – described as the Sponza Palace, Franciscan Monastery,
Pearl of the Adriatic – boasts a rich history Dubrovnik Cathedral and Rector’s Palace,
Beautiful country house running through its cobbled streets and and wander along the limestone-paved
in a very pleasant setting. hidden squares. Explore the Old Town, Stradun. See page 85.
encircled by 16th century city walls, and many
Leaders well informed of the well-preserved buildings including DULCL City Break from £439 per person
and friendly. Never
a dull moment.
For full dates & prices see page 44
20 | Enter the trip code at hfholidays.co.uk to find out more about a holiday Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk | 21CHALLENGE YOURSELF
EQUIPMENT
recommendations
boots –
Invest in your
fe et will thank you
your
The most important piece of kit for any
walking holiday is a pair of comfy boots
challenge
with strong ankle support and great grip.
Our suggestion:
Salomon Hillpass Mid GTX Boots (£125)
YOURSELF
Holidays for those who love to walk sack
Keep your ruck
hard and aim for achievement. com fortable and accessible
Ensure your bag has a waist strap
for comfort and handy side pockets or
a hydration system for storing water.
Our suggestion:
Osprey Escapist 18 Rucksack (£75)
For some, challenge is about ambition, and at
the ‘easiest end’ of these walks we’ll happily FURTHER AFIELD FURTHER AFIELD
take you the shortest way up Snowdon. For
others, it’s about collecting; at the ‘harder
end’ we’ll move more quickly to attempt all
15 Welsh mountains in Snowdonia (13,000 ft
of ascent over 30 miles).
Or how about the buzz from completing the
famous Yorkshire Three Peaks in one go,
where there are usually plenty of others out of
trying to do the same. Pack a waterpro !
case
jacket – just in
And you can challenge anyone who tells you ADVENTURE HIGH HIGH ROUTES
the south is soft after hiking the serious up A lightweight jacket with a peaked hood
WALKS ROUTES & HUTTING is easy to carry and perfect for both
and downs of the fabulous 20 miles from
Seven Sisters to Lewes on the South If you’ve got a head for heights, these Relish the challenge of exhilarating high Enjoy challenging routes spring showers and heavy downpours.
Downs, before rebooting for more breaks provide an excellent challenge level walks that venture to high summits around Selva with the Our suggestion:
of the same the next day. for both mind and body. Tackle ridges that are normally ‘off-limits’ on our added thrill of spending Rab Spark Jacket (£150)
and scrambles or test yourself by Guided Walking holidays. These aren’t one night in an authentic
Some weekends pack in the most daylight
climbing every Welsh peak over for the faint-hearted, but the rewards mountain hut – a great way to savour Find out more at
hours available with hiking at a no-nonsense
WEEKEND pace. Others tick the challenge box on one
3,000 ft in just five days! Exhilarating are unmatched. your surroundings in a unique setting hfholidays.co.uk/getkitted
CHALLENGES and challenging. Try our High Routes holidays in: and enjoy some spectacular walks
day and have a warm up or warm down local
Try our Adventure Walks in: Italy, Selva previously off-limits.
Challenge is a very subjective walk on the other.
word, but there’s no doubt you’ll need to Northern Lake District, Derwentwater Austria, Mayrhofen Try our High Routes & Hutting holiday in:
Try our Weekend Challenges at:
be fit to sign up to these holidays. Northern Snowdonia, Snowdon Poland, Zakopane Italy, Selva
10 of our locations across the UK
Western Highlands, Glen Coe
SAVE
Don’t miss out – Members of
HF Holidays get a 15% discount*
15% *
For full dates & prices see page 44 For more information about our European holidays see page 74 at Cotswold Outdoor
*Terms & Conditions apply
22 | Enter the trip code at hfholidays.co.uk to find out more about a holiday Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk | 23JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY FROM COAST TO COAST
FURTHER AFIELD
SPAIN
Longer routes that let Camino de Santiago – XJLDW
you experience the range Cathar Crossing – XLLDW
Tramuntana – PSLDW
of wonderful landscapes
our country offers – SWITZERLAND
our du Mont Blanc –
T XMLDW
from expansive coastline PEMBROKESHIRE COAST PATH DALES WAY WEST HIGHLAND WAY CLEVELAND WAY
Eiger to The Matterhorn – XDLDW
Enjoy rugged hills, sandy beaches and Follow rivers and valleys across a route Surrounded by breathtaking mountains, Walk through heather moorland
to rolling countryside. glorious coastline en route to the UK’s that crosses the Yorkshire Dales from discover the finest Highland scenery from and along clifftops, to beaches For more information about our
smallest city. Ilkley to Windermere. Loch Lomond to Ben Nevis. and picturesque seaside villages. European Guided Trails see page 74
or visit hfholidays.co.uk/trails
XPLDW from £859 per person MDLDD from £805 per person ZHLDW from £1,219 per person WYLCD from £875 per person
journey of discovery from
COAST TO COAST
MEET KATE Ascend Flat Howle for views
ONE OF OUR COAST
of Whitby Abbey, built in
TO COAST LEADERS Reach the summit of
This is a wonderful walk crossing
three National Parks – 190 miles
Kidsty Pike, the highest
point on the route at 657AD
2,560ft
of ‘sustained beauty, variety
and interest’, as Wainwright says.
It’s both challenging and varied,
with strenuous journeys across DAY 14
hill and dale, moorland and
woodland – but the rewards are Grosm
DAY 6 Enjoy fantastic views o nt
stunning! You’ll enjoy views of an to
ever-changing landscape – the of the River Swale, Ro
idge bi
dramatic fells of the Lake District,
Patt
which flows for key R
n
H
a
73miles
l
the wild, remote Pennines, the erd oB oo
tumbling Swale and the wide ale
to sket d’
sB
Sh i
vistas of the North York Moors.
rdale ap yW ay
All that and more awaits – this Patte b
one’s always a pleasure to lead! es t
o an
Be D
St
DAY 9 n d
mo
ZELDW from £1,965 per person
Kir ic h
k to R
to by Ste Reeth
DAY 1 Ke DAY 11 DAY 16
Kate was ld phen
excellent! Very
Discover nesting DAY 7
knowledgeable, Climb Beacon Hill Arrive at Robin
competent and seabirds on the high with great views at Hood’s Bay, famous
cliffs of St Bees at See the ruins of
982ft
friendly. for fishing and
299ft
Shap Abbey, which smuggling in the
dates back to the
1200s 1700s
For full dates & prices see page 44
24 | Enter the trip code at hfholidays.co.uk to find out more about a holiday Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk | 25Les Etacs – Channel Islands Skye – Hebridean Hopscotch
ISLAND HOPPING HOLIDAYS
island hopping
HOLIDAYS
Butt of Lewis
New St Martin’s Port
Grimsby of Ness Lochmaddy
Callanish Stones – Harris & Lewis Bryher North
Uig
Higher Town Lewis Uist
Tresco Great
Eastern Bernera
Isles Raasay
Bostadh Stornoway Benbecula Portree Dun
Callanish South Caan
Uist
Skye
Samson North
St Mary’s Harris Dallburgh Lochboisdale
Huisinis
Old Town Scaladal Eriskay
Elgol
Hugh Castlebay
St Town Tarbert Barra
The waters around Agnes Luskentyre Vatersay
Atlantic puffin – Orkney & Shetland Gugh South
the UK boast some Harris
wonderful island chains, each
bursting with great walking, history
and iconic destinations – so why stay
in one place for your holiday when you ISLES HARRIS HEBRIDEAN
can enjoy a spot of Island Hopping? OF SCILLY & LEWIS HOPSCOTCH
These breaks allow you to discover
the many facets that make each This charming island chain, which lies off the tip Step back in time on the beautiful island of Enjoy a Hebridean Hopscotch, visiting the
location special, staying in welcoming of the Cornish peninsula, never fails to delight Lewis, then discover stunning white beaches, varied isles of Skye, Raasay, South Uist,
visitors thanks to the unique character and turquoise waters and remote wild rugged Barra and Vatersay. On Skye, marvel at
hotels and exploring each island’s beauty of each destination. While some islands mountains as you walk on Harris. Some of the the geological wonders including “The
unique mix of great walks and feature stretches of stunning white sands many highlights include fascinating archaeology Needle”, a 37m-high pinnacle, the strangely
running into clear blue seas, others are made up such as the famous Callanish Stones and Na flat feature of “The Table” and the rocky,
hand-picked attractions. of rugged coastline and windswept landscapes. Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, the awesome pyramidal peaks at ”The Prison”. Cruise to
The warming Gulf Stream breeze gives this cliffs and stunning Eoropie Beach on the Butt the magnificent freshwater Loch Coruisk
archipelago a unique climate and makes it of Lewis, and the pristine white sands of and walk at the foot of the Cuillin mountains.
Paps of Jura – Arran, Islay & Jura
perfect for walking. Explore subtropical Tresco Luskentyre Beach. Enjoy part of the Harris Enjoy the sandy white beaches of Vatersay,
and visit the famous Abbey gardens, see the Walkway from Scaladal to Tarbert, with the southernmost of the inhabited Western
stunning array of Bronze Age archaeological excellent views of the Clisham Horseshoe, and Isles. Soak up the scenes from Whisky Galore,
sites on Gugh and walk on the wild side with a head towards the stunning beach at Loch and explore Barra – recently voted Britain’s
trip to the unkempt Bryher. Crabhadail on the Huisinis Peninsula. most beautiful isle.
Look out for: The marvellous, playful Look out for: The majestic Callanish Stones, Look out for: The eerie pinnacles of the
grey seals, which can often be seen in erected in the late Neolithic era and used as Quiraing, a supernatural landscape often
Atlantic grey seals – Isles of Scilly abundance in the waters surrounding this a focal point for ritual activity during the used in films due to its enchanting terrain
peaceful archipelago. Bronze Age. and unusual features.
XSLDW from £895 per person ZBLDW from £1,149 per person XWLDW from £1,249 per person
OTHER ISLAND HOPPING ADVENTURES
Arran, Islay & Jura Orkney & Shetland Channel Islands
XALDW from £1,649 per person XGLDW from £1,349 per person GYLDW from £1,395 per person
For full dates & prices see page 44
26 | Enter the trip code at hfholidays.co.uk to find out more about a holiday Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk | 27Alnwick Castle UNCOVER BRITAIN’S HERITAGE ON FOOT
and Lion Bridge
on foot
Shropshire Hills, Church Stretton Derbyshire Dales, Dovedale
QUAINT TOWNS AND HISTORIC CASTLES DOT ARCHITECTURAL SPLENDOUR IN THE HEART
THIS LAID-BACK DESTINATION OF THE PEAK DISTRICT
Much Wenlock is a beautiful market town with Tudor The glorious Chatsworth House has been in the
buildings and winding streets – but sports lovers will Cavendish family since 1549. With expansive gardens
Offering a combination of walks and visits to know it as the birthplace of the modern Olympics! covering six centuries of inspiration, beautiful views
fascinating places of interest, our Walking with Elsewhere in this historic area lies imposing Powis Castle across the Derwent and Wye valleys, and a renowned art
and the impressive Ironbridge Gorge. collection, this destination delights all who see it.
Sightseeing breaks immerse you in the UK’s
History buffs must see: Acton Scott Historic Working History buffs must see: Water-powered, cotton-spinning
outstanding history, culture and nature. Farm, which preserves Victorian practices. Cromford Mill, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
CSWOD Walking with Sightseeing from £349 per person DVWOD Walking with Sightseeing from £359 per person
FURTHER AFIELD
South Downs, Abingworth Italy, Sorrento
CENTURIES OF HISTORY LIE IN WAIT AMONG COASTAL TOWN WITH ECHOES OF
THE ROLLING CHALK DOWNS THE ROMAN EMPIRE
A visit to Fishbourne Roman Palace is the perfect way The Roman town of Sorrento is within easy reach
to appreciate this area’s diverse history. Its impressive of the lost cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
ruins – a memory of life in first century Britain – stand in These world-famous heritage sites were
stark contrast to the imposing Arundel Castle and the destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 79 AD and
Baroque styling of Petworth House. More recently, now provide an incredible glimpse into the past.
the area was home to the influential Bloomsbury Group, History buffs must see: The 15th century cathedral.
featuring literary icons of the 20th century.
See page 83.
Northumberland, Alnmouth History buffs must see: The magnificent Cowdray
Ruins, formerly one of the great Tudor houses. Guided Walking & Sightseeing
STLCL
from £999 per person
MEMORIES OF INVASION AND WAR ACROSS
AWWOD Walking with Sightseeing from £349 per person
DRAMATIC LANDSCAPES
The remains of the renowned Hadrian’s Wall – started in 122AD – run for
more than 70 miles. The imposing Alnwick Castle has stood proud since
the Norman Invasion, while the tranquil Holy Island of Lindisfarne was
SO MUCH MORE HERITAGE TO EXPLORE
raided by the Vikings in 793. Together, these three sites stand as a
reminder of the centuries when Britain was racked with war. Dorset Coast, Lulworth Cove Western Highlands, Glen Coe
History buffs must see: Vindolanda – an excavated fort and museum,
Walking with Sightseeing
Walking with Sightseeing
LHWOD LLWOD
home of the famous Roman writing tablets. from £359 per person from £359 per person
ALWOD Walking with Sightseeing from £359 per person
For full dates & prices see page 44
28 | Enter the trip code at hfholidays.co.uk to find out more about a holiday Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk | 291 4 WILDLIFE ON OUR DOORSTEP
NATURE
HOTSPOTS
Many of our Guided Walking
holidays also offer the opportunity
to spot great wildlife
1 EXMOOR
SELWORTHY
Herds of semi-wild Exmoor ponies have roamed
the dramatic moorlands for millennia.
SLBOB Guided Walking from £325 per person
2
2 BRECON
BRECON
BEACONS
Home to hundreds of pairs of a magnificent bird
of prey – the red kite.
BRBOB Guided Walking from £325 per person
3 CORNWALL
ST IVES
Seals bob up and down in the bustling harbour,
entertaining spectators with their playful antics.
SVBOB Guided Walking from £325 per person
WILDLIFE
4 NORTHUMBERLAND
ALNMOUTH
Hardy puffins brave the turbulent seas off the
Farne Islands.
on our doorstep
ALBOB Guided Walking from £325 per person
MEET MIKE FURTHER AFIELD
ONE OF OUR HF HOLIDAYS
NATURAL WORLD LEADERS NORTH & CENTRAL
3 AMERICA
The UK’s National Parks A visit to the Lake District in springtime I’m a countryman born and bred, and I’ve devoted
showcases an abundance of daffodils and my adult life to sharing my enthusiasm about the CANADIAN ROCKIES
harbour some of Britain’s bluebells lining woodland paths. Hardy British countryside’s fascinating wildlife. My expertise Head into vast evergreen forests, home to
most celebrated and rarest Arctic-alpine plants such as the Alpine catchfly extends across the natural world, and I’m a passionate magnificent black bears, moose and marmots.
and the Alpine cinquefoil can be found at For full dates & prices see page 92.
species of flora and fauna – higher altitudes, clinging to the wild mountain
believer in a holistic approach to its interdependency
– from the underlying geology and vegetation
our Natural World breaks are ledges above the Borrowdale and Buttermere through to the creatures which depend on it. CDWHW from £4,185 per person
the perfect way to enjoy them. valleys. And what trip to any British woodland
area would be complete without a peek into
the amazing world of fungi? Not only can you
The Lake District is known the world over for
learn about their bizarre behaviours and
its vast stretches of sparkling waters, rolling
importance to other wildlife, but you’ll also be A SELECTION OF OUR NATURAL WORLD HOLIDAYS
hills and winding trails. A closer look at its
able to take some amazing photos! Spring Wildlife of the Lake District, Secret World of Fungi, Astronomy in the South Downs,
wetlands, woodland and crags, however, reveals
bittern, blackcaps and peregrine falcons. The natural world, however, goes beyond the Conistonwater Church Stretton Abingworth
Nesting visitors include osprey and sandwich things we can see around us. With open CNWWS from £535 per person CSWFW from £389 per person AWWAB from £355 per person
terns. Bird-lovers are sure to find something to spaces miles from any built-up areas, the skies
delight and fascinate them all year round – don’t get much clearer than they do in tranquil
visitors to Northumberland during the winter spots like Exmoor or the South Downs, making
months may be rewarded with a glimpse of a these peaceful locations excellent places to
goldeneye, crossbill, or a short-eared owl. For full dates & prices see page 44
look skyward and indulge in a spot of stargazing!
30 | Enter the trip code at hfholidays.co.uk to find out more about a holiday Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk | 31CAPTURE NEW MEMORIES
capture
2
WHY NOT TRY...
1 FOCUS ON LIGHT
CONISTONWATER
NEW MEMORIES Perfect for aspiring landscape photographers, our
expert leader will take you to varied locations so you
can capture the landscape in the best light of the day.
CNEMN from £505 per person
the next stage comes with having a greater
Enjoy one of our wonderful understanding of the various controls and
Photography breaks and learn settings to make those images even better. 2 WILDLIFE
ALNMOUTH
PHOTOGRAPHY
how to take amazing pictures “Sunshine is great, but given we’re talking Explore the best wildlife photography opportunities
that will help your holiday live about the UK, it’s certainly not a guaranteed in the beautiful Northumberland area and capture
long in your memory. event! Fear not, however – even on dull and flora and fauna at its best.
overcast days you can still get great pictures.
Our expert Geoff Perry discusses the On cloudier days, why not switch your focus to, ALEWP from £605 per person
considerations for photographing landscapes say, architecture or heritage features like
historic steam railways, making use of the
3 STEAM RAILWAYS
– a useful skill for any outdoor holiday.
changing tones and colours.
“To capture the country’s wonderful vistas and WITH A CAMERA,
famous landmarks at their best, the essential “And of course, if it is raining you’ll want to DOLGELLAU
requirement is observation; look for a good ensure your camera stays safe! Some simple Photograph lovingly restored steam locomotives, as
vantage point, consider the light and where it protection against the elements is perfect – well as stations so perfectly preserved that they
is coming from, make use of shadows and aim it doesn’t need to be hi-tech, and placing feature in dramas like Downton Abbey and Foyle’s War.
for good composition. your camera in a plastic bag with a hole for
the lens to peep through is fine. There’s DGESR from £605 per person
“Advances in technology mean most people’s no reason for the weather to stop you
digital cameras will produce a quality image – taking photos!”
4 DORSET THROUGH A LENS
LULWORTH COVE
Terrific coastal scenery is right on your doorstep on
MEET GEOFF this holiday and this, along with castles and Dorset
villages, provides a wide range of subjects to capture.
ONE OF OUR HF HOLIDAYS
PHOTOGRAPHY LEADERS LHEPT from £565 per person
I’ve been teaching art and photography for over 30
years and I love passing on my skills. My passion lies in
landscape photography – I was shortlisted for Landscape
Photographer of the Year in 2009 – and I know that good FURTHER AFIELD
landscape photography comes from careful planning and
understanding the environment. I’m looking forward to LANDSCAPE
sharing my knowledge with you. 5 PHOTOGRAPHY
TUSCANY
Capture images of rolling hills, cypress-lined
roads, Tuscan sunrises, rustic farmhouses and
hilltop villages. See page 83.
1 3 4 SNEPT from £879 per person
For full dates & prices see page 44
5
32 | Enter the trip code at hfholidays.co.uk to find out more about a holiday Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk | 33You can also read
