Walking Holidays Collection - November 2015 to August 2016 - Holidays in Europe by air from your
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Holidays in Europe
by air from your
local airport
Walking Holidays Collection
November 2015 to August 2016
Welcome to our Walking Holidays Collection, with departures your own. Whichever holiday you choose, you’ll still have time
through to August 2016 – all from an airport near you! Our to visit cities and places of interest in some of Europe’s most
holidays have three included, fully guided, walks and the great picturesque countryside and beauty spots as well as enjoying
majority include half board at the hotels. In 2016, the 13th year included guided walks and the company of like-minded walkers
Preferred Travel Services has produced a Walking Holidays from all over the UK. Here are just a couple of comments from
Collection, we continue with our unique formula of combining customers who have travelled with us recently.
brilliant holiday destinations with walks accompanied by one We have been on several of your walking holidays and
of our expert (and very popular!) local walking guides. And,
always enjoyed them. In this case the hotel was fantastic,
because everywhere we go is a holiday destination in its own
excellent transport, very nice group of people and
right, there are plenty of other things to do and see during your
great walks led by Xavier and what a beautiful island.
holiday when you are not out walking. We are sure you will find
Mrs J, Gloucs (Menorca)
something that will appeal to you in this collection. If you do –
give us a call on 0116 279 3929 – we think you will find this a I have the highest praise for the two guides for our
different experience. No hanging around listening to a series of holiday - John our walking guide and Manuel our tour
options, no ‘please wait for the next available operator’ – a real guide. Both were extremely knowledgeable, very
person will answer you straight away! welcoming and fun to be with. I loved this holiday and
ABOUT US: Preferred Travel Services is an award winning, wouldn’t hesitate to book another Preferred travel holiday.
independently owned, friendly company whose two directors Miss H, Devon (Andalucia’s Eastern Coast)
share more than 60 years of travel industry experience and All our holidays are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority
all this is put to use in designing holidays which have just the and we guarantee that the price of your holiday will not change
right balance of included visits and free time to explore on after we have confirmed your booking.
Index
3 Cyprus - Akamas PenInsula & the Troodos Mountains 16 Menorca - Walking & Birdwatching
4 Tenerife 17 Portugal - Walking & Birdwatching
5 Lanzarote & Fuerteventura 18 The Cinque Terre, Portofino & Lake Maggiore
6 Andalucia's Eastern Coast 19 The Italian Riviera & Monte Carlo
7 The Sierra de Mijas 20 Monte Isola & the Camonica Valley
8 Catalonia 21 Tuscany & Liguria
9 Catalonia - Trails & Rails 22 Elba & Tuscany
10 Mallorca 23 Crete - East & West
11 Portugal - the Algarve 24 Crete, Gouves - no single supplement
12 The Guadiana River & Western Andalucia 25 The Harz Mountains, Berlin & Potsdam
13 The High Pyrenees 26 Poland - Krakow & the High Tatras
14 The Valleys of Roussillon 27 The Julian Alps of Slovenia, Venice & Trieste
15 The Basque Coast & Bordeaux 28 General Information
We have negotiated no single supplements on selected dates in Crete, Cyprus, Mallorca, Valleys of the Roussillon and Catalonia!
But make your booking quickly as availability is limited and spaces always sell out very fast.
HOW TO BOOK MADE EASY
RESERVATIONS HOTLINE: 0116 279 3929
(Open 9am-5.30pm Mon-Fri & 9am-1pm Sat)
We suggest you check availability and make a provisional booking before sending your booking form. Call our reservations
hotline on 0116 279 3929 or e-mail sales@preferredts.com. Then complete the booking form and return it with the
deposit payment of £125 per person (or full balance if applicable) plus insurance premium if required to Preferred Travel
Services, 41 High Street, Kibworth, Leicester, LE8 0HS. Please make cheques payable to Preferred Travel Services.
2 | www.preferredts.com Please refer to the enclosed ‘Dates and Flight Information’ for details of departure dates, prices and flights.
No single
supplement
November &
February
8 days from £769 November, February & March
Cyprus - Akamas Peninsula & the Troodos Mountains
Cyprus is an ancient land of mystery, legend, beauty and love. Aphrodite rose from the sea foam near your resort of Paphos,
and took pity on Pygmalion by bringing to life his statue of the beautiful Galatea - their son was Paphos. At the crossroads
of three continents, the area has a long history of invasions, and but for its mountain ranges, whose winter snows irrigate
the island, Cyprus would be desert instead of the lush, green landscapes you now find. Paphos was the capital for 600
years and its visible archaeological legacy has led to the whole town being placed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
PROGRAMME
Day One: Fly direct to Paphos. Transfer to your hotel in Kato Paphos
(20 minutes) for seven nights half board accommodation. YOUR HOTEL
ATHENA BEACH HOTEL HHHH Superior, Paphos (seven nights)
Days Two to Seven: In resort with three included walking
The Athena Beach Hotel has recently been fully refurbished and provides
excursions, private transportation included. Two of the walks highlight superb accommodation right on the beach, in Kato Paphos, with good
the Akamas peninsula – an area of rocky coves, sandy bays on the access to the town centre. There are lovely spacious gardens, 2 freshwater
coast and picturesque villages inland. outdoor swimming pools, 1 indoor heated pool, 3 restaurants offering buffet
and a la carte options (half-board includes dining in the buffet restaurant),
Walk 1: the Akamas Peninsula. After a 45-minute northwards coach bars, and spacious lounges and terraces. Bedrooms have bath, shower and
transfer into the nature reserve area of the Akamas peninsula, you wc, satellite tv, fridge, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer, and private
balcony or terrace. There is also a spa and health club with gym offering
follow the trail that Adonis used on his way to meet Aphrodite (or so
a full range of treatments (charges apply). The hotel also provides resident
the locals say!). The area is rich in flora, including species found only dance leaders with complimentary dance classes, 18 outdoor and 6 indoor
here. The walk takes 3.5 hours (5 miles), with ascents/descents of bowls rinks, floodlit tennis courts and mini golf – charges apply to rental of
250m. equipment and some facilities. (www.athena-cbh.com).
Walk 2: Panayia and the Vouni Trail. Today’s walk, starts at the village If you have friends who are not walkers interested in this itinerary, it is
of Panayia, one hour’s drive from Paphos. The path goes through featured in our Escorted Holidays brochure with a touring programme.
vineyards and amid unusual limestone rock formations. Your walk
takes about 3 hours (4.5 miles), with ascents/descents of 300m.
Before returning to Paphos, you will visit Chrysorogiatissa monastery,
3000ft up (the trail’s name, ‘Vouni’ means a ‘peak’), and founded in
1152.
Walk 3: the Troodos Mountains, 1 ½ hours drive away. These
impressive, often snow-capped, mountains are the backbone of
Cyprus - the highest peak, Mount Olympus, rises to 6000ft. This is
a 5 mile trail around the mountain starting and finishing on the road
to Chionistra, crossing ski runs and with stunning views on all sides.
There are signs indicating particular flora species on the slopes and
you will see black pines and junipers of the region growing out of the
barren rocks. 3 hours with little ascent or descent. Apart from your
three included walking excursions, there is an optional excursion to
the capital and Green Line in Nicosia.
Day Eight: Free time until your transfer to the airport for your return
flight.
Please refer to the enclosed ‘Dates and Flight Information’ for details of departure dates, prices and flights. www.preferredts.com | 3
8 days from £689 November & March
Tenerife
There are a host of reasons for visiting Tenerife - the largest of the Canaries, which the classicists rightly called ‘the
Fortunate Isles’. Fortunate, too, in having such a wonderful winter and spring climate for visitors from the freezing north!
An island of contrasts - miles of sun-drenched coastline surround Spain’s highest mountain, Mount Teide. Accessible by
cable car and often snow-capped, the desolate volcanic slopes of Teide are a world away from the tropical vegetation
of the banana plantations and the botanic gardens below. You stay in the north part of the island where the traditional
villages, the UNESCO-listed university town of La Laguna and historic Puerto de la Cruz are totally different in feel to the
commercialised resorts of the south.
PROGRAMME
Day One: Flight to Tenerife Sur Reina Sofia Airport. Transfer
to your hotel (about one hour away) for seven nights half board YOUR HOTEL
accommodation. DIVERHOTEL TENERIFE SPA AND GARDEN HHHH,
Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife (seven nights)
Days Two to Seven: In resort with three included walking
excursions in different parts of the island. The hotel stands on the edge of Puerto de la Cruz, a 25 minute walk to the
seaside promenade (free courtesy bus 6 days a week during the day). There are
Walk 1: Mount Teide. A full day excursion onto Mount Teide, with views to Mount Teide, the sea, and the Orotava valley from the hotel’s extensive
3-4 hours walking on the mountain slopes (breathtaking views), and tropical gardens (1500sqm). Rooms have bath/shower, wc, hairdryer, satellite
tv, safety deposit box (charge applies), minibar, and balcony or terrace. There is
time to sightsee as well. A reasonably level route will be chosen an outdoor pool, spa (charges apply), lounge area, poolside bar, entertainment
by your walking guides, according to the weather on the day. Total programme, buffet restaurant, and lounge area (limited free wifi). Prices are
distance 5-6 miles, reasonably level but at an altitude of around based on standard rooms. Rooms with a view of Mount Teide are available at
8000ft. a supplement.
(www.playasenator.com/en/hoteles/playacanaria)
Walk 2: Anaga. Your second excursion is to the north east of the
island, for a walk in the Rural Park of Anaga, situated in the north Please note: this is a new itinerary and a different hotel for 2016. For
east of the island, an area of volcanic cliffs and Laurisilva forests details regarding the departure in November 2015 please enquire or
rich in wildlife. Total distance 4.4 miles with climbs of approx 300m. view www.preferredts.com/pdfs/xwte.pdf.
Walk 3: Teno. The final included excursion is a full day trip to the Extend your holiday – extra week available in Tenerife.
extreme north west of the island, where the Teno area lies, by-
If you have friends who are not walkers interested in this itinerary, it is
passed by the traffic and seemingly by time itself. You walk in the
featured in our Escorted Holidays brochure with a touring programme.
hills above Garachico, whose harbour was filled in by a lava flow in
the 18th century. This is a full day excursion, with 3-4 hours walking
and time for other exploring, too. Total distance 5 miles with climbs
of approx 350m.
Apart from your three included excursions, you are free to relax and
enjoy the extensive facilities of your hotel, or to explore Tenerife,
either independently or on an optional excursion, as you prefer.
Day Eight: Free time until your transfer to the airport for your
return flight.
4 | www.preferredts.com Please refer to the enclosed ‘Dates and Flight Information’ for details of departure dates, prices and flights.
8 days from £819 November, March & May
Lanzarote & Fuerteventura
The entire island of Lanzarote is a UNESCO biosphere reserve, and it contains no less than 13 ‘protected areas’ including a Spanish
National Park - Timanfaya, where Raquel Welch was memorably filmed in ‘One Million Years BC’. As your base we have chosen
Playa Blanca, a quieter resort in the extreme south of the island, close to the Papagayo nature reserve.
The artist Cesar Manrique left an indelible mark on the island, not just in the artistic heritage, but in his (and his followers’) dedication
to maintaining the unique landscapes of his island and opposition to tasteless over-development. As you explore Lanzarote, you
will see that hi-rise building has been avoided, that the traditional rural architecture with its white buildings and striking green
paintwork has been respected, and above all that the island’s extraordinary landscapes have remained unblemished.
PROGRAMME
Day One: Flight to Lanzarote, transfer to your hotel for seven nights Coach transfer to the Corona Volcano (45 minutes), Lanzarote’s
half board accommodation. highest. Your walk takes you up this volcano and then across to the
Days Two to Seven: In Playa Blanca, with three included walking cliffs at Famara, from where there are excellent views of the Chinijo
excursions, one to the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura and two archipelago. Along the way you will discover some of the unusual flora
within Lanzarote. of this area, which has more water than the rest of Lanzarote. 7 miles,
550m of ascent/descent.
Playa Blanca: our chosen resort of Playa Blanca is quieter than most of
the island’s resorts, yet has every amenity. A particular feature is the A fourth, optional, walking excursion to the north of the island and La
long promenade, which runs close to the harbour, passes the stunning Graciosa island may also be available.
new upmarket development of Marina Rubicon and continues out Day Eight: Free time until your transfer to the airport for your return
towards Papagayo. There are good island bus services, allowing you to flight.
get around by public transport if you wish.
YOUR HOTEL
Walk 1: Southern Lanzarote. La Geria’s unusual vineyards and the
Natural Park of the Volcanoes. Coach transfer to the village of La H10 LANZAROTE PRINCESS HHHH, Playa Blanca (seven nights)
Asomada (25 minutes), from where you walk on Mount Gaida, with Located in Playa Blanca just a short walk to the promenade, the hotel
superb views over the island. Your route takes you through vineyards; has been recently refurbished. It has two restaurants, two bars and a
coffee bar. There are two swimming pools, minigolf and tennis court.
the vines are cultivated here in an apparently inhospitable post-
Free wifi in the lobby. Bedrooms have bath, hairdryer, terrace or balcony,
volcanic environment. Entering the Natural Park area, you climb onto fridge and flat screen tv. Standard rooms have garden or mountain view;
the Caldera called Cuervo, for views into the crater but also across the superior rooms with pool or sea view are available at a supplement.
island. 5 miles, ascent/descent of 280m. (www.h10hotels.com)
Walk 2: Fuerteventura. You walk to the port (10 minutes) to catch the Extend your holiday: extra week available in Playa Blanca.
ferry to Corralejo, Fuerteventura (35 minute crossing). On arrival you
join your coach and head for the island’s old capital, Betancuria, which If you have friends who are not walkers interested in this itinerary, it is
takes its name from the first Spanish settler, Jean de Bethencourt, in featured in our Escorted Holidays brochure with a touring programme.
1405. You will have time to explore the white-painted village before
you start your 4 mile walk, which takes you along the spine of the
island, with great views all around. Your destination is Vega de Rio
Palmas – the ‘Meadow of Palms River’, where the apparently dry
watercourse does indeed provide water for the palm trees. You have
time for refreshment too(!), before you rejoin your coach to head for
the Corralejo Dunes Natural Area. There you walk a further mile or so to
explore the dunes - in fact an outcrop of the Sahara Desert, set by an
azure sea and again rich in birdlife. You return to the port for the ferry
back to Playa Blanca, arriving in time for dinner. 5 miles with mainly
decsents of 200m.
Walk 3: Northern Lanzarote - Corona Volcano to the Crags of Famara.
Please refer to the enclosed ‘Dates and Flight Information’ for details of departure dates, prices and flights. www.preferredts.com | 5
8 days from £599 November, February to June
Andalucia’s Eastern Coast
Glorious hills and mountains, pretty beaches and coves, the azure waters of the southern Mediterranean and a wonderful
sub-tropical climate – what else do you need for a walking holiday in the sunshine? Andalucia’s eastern coast (known
as the Costa Tropical) is all this. Your base is the coastal city of Almunecar where the sierras plunge spectacularly into
the sea and you will find no less than 25 beaches and coves within the boundary of the municipality. It is a city whose
Phoenician, Roman and Moorish past is still much in evidence. Granada is only 45 miles away and you have an included
visit to the last city to be surrendered by the Moors in 1492.
PROGRAMME
Day One: Flight to Malaga and transfer to your hotel (55 miles) in will also have plenty of time to see some of the city’s other attractions
Almunecar on the beach east of the city for seven nights half board such as the cathedral and the old Moorish quarter of Albaicin, now
accommodation. a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with the Alhambra and the
Days Two to Seven: During your stay there are three included walks. Generalife.
Walk 1: Short 5-minute transfer to the start of your walk east along The rest of your time is free to enjoy Almunecar. You can visit the Arab
the coast. You walk via gorges, cliff and coastal paths along beaches fortress built on top of a Roman castle or stroll through the delightful
and coves, passing ancient watch towers, and with excellent views as botanical gardens of Majuelo Park where there is a huge collection
you go. Your destination is the old town of Salobrena, where there is of tropical and subtropical plants, bushes and trees as well as the
an Arab Fortress and from where you catch the local bus back to the remains of the Roman fish-salting pits. Other attractions include the
hotel. 6 miles, 120m of ascent and descent. exotic bird park and the network of defensive towers built by the Moors
and later strengthened in the 18th century as defence against British
Walk 2: 10 mile coach trip west to your start point at Playa Canuelo,
raids. Or just stroll through the busy commercial district in the old
from where you walk along the old coastal route to La Herradura –
centre where you can admire the city’s monuments – look out for the
5 miles so far, 230m of ascent/descent. After a stop for lunch at La
plaque dedicated to Laurie Lee who spent time here during and after
Herradura, either catch the local bus back to Almunecar, or continue
the Civil War.
walking over the headland to Cotobro and Almunecar – a further 5
miles, 100m ascent/descent. From Almunecar centre, take the local Day Eight: Free time until your transfer to the airport and your return
bus or continue along the promenade to the hotel. flight home.
Walk 3: Today you have a coach transfer to Frigiliana, 16 miles away, for
your circular walk in the hills behind this pretty white-painted village. YOUR HOTEL
The undulating route takes you to the Cross on Captain Pinto’s Hill (the HOTEL BAHIA TROPICAL HHHH, Taramay, Almunecar (seven nights)
good captain built a cross to give thanks for surviving a horrendous The hotel is situated on the small Pozuelo beach in Taramay on the eastern
storm at sea). You return via the little village of La Molineta, where edge of Almunecar, 3 km from the city centre. There is a frequent, cheap
we make a refreshment stop, and then return to Frigiliana. 9 miles, bus service to town if you do not want to take the extremely pleasant
600m of ascent and descent. There may be the opportunity to include walk along the seafront. Its spacious rooms all have bath and wc, minibar,
a section of river walk, weather permitting. balcony or terrace, satellite tv, safe (chargeable) and hairdryer. The
restaurant serves buffet style food and there is a bar with entertainment
There are opportunities for self-guided walks from Almunecar – our on most nights. The hotel has a large outdoor pool and a spa. One entrance
representative will be pleased to advise. There is also an included full- to the spa is included during your stay (one hour use to include active
day excursion to the wonderful city of Granada. From Almunecar we pool with water massages, sauna, Turkish bath, pediluvium and sensation
take the spectacular old road to Granada along the tropical valley of the shower). Health and body treatments are also available at extra cost.
Rio Verde passing avocado, custard apple and mango plantations. The (www.hotelbahiatropical.com)
next section crossing the sierra is spectacular. But there is surely no
more spectacular setting than the city of Granada whose extraordinary Extend your holiday – extra week available in Taramay.
Alhambra complex is dominated by the snow-capped peaks of the
If you have friends who are not walkers interested in this itinerary, it is
Sierra Nevada. A local guide will ensure you make the most of your
featured in our Escorted Holidays brochure with a touring programme.
visit of the Alhambra and the Generalife Gardens. As well as visiting the
complex with its richly decorated palaces and luxuriant gardens, you
6 | www.preferredts.com Please refer to the enclosed ‘Dates and Flight Information’ for details of departure dates, prices and flights.
8 days from £639 March & April
The Sierra de Mijas
We always try to combine great walking with interesting holiday destinations which are well worth a visit in their own
right and Mijas ticks all the boxes. Roman, Visigothic and later Moorish, the white painted centre of Mijas Pueblo still has
the look of an old Andalucian village, set amid the impressive landscapes of the Sierra, which are rich in vegetation: only
a quarter of an hour’s drive from the commercial excesses of the coast, but light years away in atmosphere. The marble
and limestone Sierra de Mijas is crossed with mountain valleys and has a variety of well-maintained paths and routes of
varying difficulty.
PROGRAMME
Day One: Flight to Malaga, transfer to Mijas (30 minutes) and your his paintings. Malaga is easily accessible on public transport. Or you
hotel for seven nights half board accommodation. could spend a day at the seaside in nearby Fuengirola.
Days Two to Seven: At leisure in Mijas, with three included walking Day Eight: Free time until departure for Malaga airport.
excursions. A fourth, optional walking excursion will also be available.
YOUR HOTEL
Walk 1: Mijas and the Sierra. 5 miles, 400m of ascent/descent. Your first
walk starts and finishes at the hotel: the first section will introduce you HOTEL TRH HHHH, Mijas. (seven nights)
to Mijas itself, with its narrow alleys, broad squares, and ‘Camino del This hotel enjoys an excellent location close to town (5 minutes walk
away), but set amid palms and pines in the rolling landscapes of the
Calvario’, a pilgrims’ path of the Way of the Cross up to the Hermitage Sierra as well. Built in Andalucian style, the hotel has a bar, buffet
(built in 1710 as a refuge for Carmelite monks), on the side of the restaurant, outdoor pool and spacious gardens and terraces. Rooms
Sierra from where there are superb views over the coast. Your route have bath/shower, wc, satellite TV, direct dial phone, safety deposit box,
goes to the Mission Cross and through an abandoned marble quarry. internet connection and hairdryer. (www.trhhoteles.com)
The landscape varies as you go, offering firstly herbs and lavender, and
then eucalyptus and pines. You re-enter Mijas, and head through the
town towards the hotel: perhaps stopping for refreshment first!
Walk 2: The North side of the Sierra, near Alhaurin el Grande. Short
(20 minutes) transfer around the edge of the Sierra. This walk involves
beautiful glens and stunning vistas. The full walk is 7 miles, 675m
of ascent/descent, with some steep sections, but an easier version
encompassing part of the route will also be available.
Walk 3: Calamorro and the old path to Mijas. 5 miles, 500m ascent
(descent by cable car). 20-minute transfer to start your walk near
Benalmadena Pueblo, a pretty town in the hills as opposed to the
sprawling resort of Benalmadena Costa below. The trail follows a ridge
– on a clear day you can see Gibraltar and Africa! Your destination is
Calamorro, from where the cable car whisks you 3km back down the
mountain to ‘civilisation’!
There is plenty to do in your free time. As well as a very pretty old centre
where it is a pleasure to stroll and relax, Mijas has a folk museum and
a newly-opened Contemporary Arts Centre. The prime focus of the
museum is Picasso’s ceramic works of which 41 are on display as well
as some of his paintings and others by Dali and Miro. Picasso was born
just down the road in Malaga which also has a fine museum displaying
Please refer to the enclosed ‘Dates and Flight Information’ for details of departure dates, prices and flights. www.preferredts.com | 7
No single
supplement
in March
8 days from £619 March & May
Catalonia
Mainly known in the UK for the beaches of the Costa Brava and Dorada, Catalonia is a region with an incredibly rich variety
of landscapes. Close to the coast, the rolling highlands offer lovely views towards the sea and inland towards the heights
of the Sierras, which are rich in wildlife and flora.
Your walks feature both landscapes, as well as the character-filled villages of the interior.
Your base is Coma-Ruga, a pleasantly unspoilt resort with an excellent beach in the quieter Penedes area of the ‘Golden
Coast’, the Costa Dorada, between Barcelona and Tarragona. There is an excellent, reasonably priced rail service to both
cities. Apart from the wine-producing counties of the Penedes, you also walk in the adjacent Alt Camp, the ‘High Country’.
PROGRAMME
Day One: Flight to Reus or Barcelona. Transfer to your hotel, just under once the limit of Moorish occupation, crossing and re-crossing the
an hour away. Seven nights half board accommodation is reserved for (normally gentle) river on rather narrow wooden footbridges, before
you. reaching Santes Creus, one of the three great Catalan Monasteries,
which you can visit. 9 miles, 70m climb/descent.
Days Two to Seven: In resort with three included walking excursions:
Day Eight: Free time until your departure to the airport for your flight
Walk 1: Coastal Walk from La Mora to Torredembarra. After a short
home.
coach transfer you start your walk near the medieval Mora watchtower.
You cross the beach and the headland before reaching Tamarit and its
castle. You head along the beach and then a short way inland, up the YOUR HOTEL
river, to explore the ‘witches’ village’ of Altafulla. The coastal area, the
story goes, was plagued by pirates and smugglers: the word was put NUBAHOTEL HHHH, Coma-Ruga (seven nights)
out that the upper part of the village was populated by witches, so as The hotel stands close to the broad sandy beach. This unspoilt resort is
to discourage attack! You return to the wide beach and climb onto the quiet out of season, rather busier at weekends from June to September
headland to reach ‘Els Munts’, an impressive Roman villa (the word when there is an entertainment programme in the hotel, with music on
means a farmstead). Nearby there are other, rather less impressive, Saturday evenings. A reasonable selection of shops, bars and restaurants
holiday ‘villas’. You descend into Torredembarra – the town has a is about 10 minutes walk (700m) away, and the railway station with half-
hourly departures to Barcelona is about 15 minutes walk. There is also
pleasant old quarter and beach. Total so far 6 miles, 80m of climb/ a local bus service to the nearby county town of El Vendrell, birthplace
descent. Nearby is a dune area, a haven for birds and of ecological of Pablo Casals: his villa, now an interesting museum, is within walking
importance: you will have time to explore it if you wish. You return to distance of the hotel. The hotel has a spa centre (a reasonable extra charge
the hotel by train. applies), restaurant, bar, lounge, and outdoor pool. Rooms, which all have
balcony, also have 2 queen size beds, bathroom with hairdryer, phone,
Walk 2: The Foix Natural Park, and modernist l’Arboc. After a short air-conditioning/heating, satellite LCD tv, and safety deposit box (charge
transfer to the Foix Dam, you take a shady loop across the gentle applies). Free wifi in public areas. (www.nubahotelcomarruga.com)
hillside - there are excellent views of Castellet Castle. After exploring
the village, you cross the Foix River and follow country lanes to the little
modernist town of l’Arboc. The town has a copy of Seville’s landmark Extend your holiday - extra week available in Catalonia.
Giralda tower (a local 19th century couple honeymooned there, and
built a copy when they came home!). Again, you return to Coma-Ruga
by train. 5 miles, 150m climb/descent.
Walk 3: Villages of the Alt Camp & the Cistercian Route. After a half-
hour coach transfer to the unusual, modernist sanctuary at Monferri,
you walk the country lane towards Brafim (socks and shoes off at the
ford if the river is high, though there are stepping stones!) and the
Sanctuary of Loreto (views). Further on, you reach Vila-Rodona, where
there is a Roman Columbarium and shaded picnic tables by the river.
You join the ‘Cistercian Route’ and continue alongside the River Gaia,
8 | www.preferredts.com Please refer to the enclosed ‘Dates and Flight Information’ for details of departure dates, prices and flights.
8 days from £639 May
Catalonia - Trails & Rails
We have featured ‘Walking in Catalonia’ for a few years now. As our hotel is situated just 15 minutes walk from the local railway
station it gives us the opportunity to explore further this part of Catalonia. The local station is on the main line between Barcelona and
Tarragona and the journey to either (which you can do in your spare time) is very pleasant as the train hugs the coastline. But there
are also a few local lines which pass through unspoilt Catalan countryside, where pretty villages huddle around their church and wine
cellar, unchanged by time. Between them roll hills of olives and vines, interrupted by occasional rocky crags or coves, and seemingly
randomly-positioned railway halts. Recalling the days when the trains on these lesser-used lines were of great import to the country
and its government, each off-the-beaten-track station seems to be home to an enormous traffic office (now often derelict) where,
presumably, teams of civil servants supervised the running of the railway! One line goes west and inland into the Priorat, an area famed
for its wine as much as its beautiful countryside. The other line goes north to Montblanc at the foot of the Prades mountain range.
PROGRAMME
Day One: Flight to Barcelona or Reus. Transfer to your hotel just under miles, 160m of ascent/ descent. The easier option ends in Capçanes
an hour away for seven nights half board hotel accommodation. with a coach transfer back to Marça. You return to the coast by coach
Days Two to Seven: In resort with three included Trails & Rails (one hour).
walks. Please note: we will pre-purchase train tickets, but occasionally Walk 3: The Coastal path: l’Ametlla de Mar to l’Ampolla. You take the
trains can be quite busy for the first 2 or 3 stops. 0848 train south down the coast to l’Ametlla de Mar – journey time one
Please note: All three walks have sections which are more difficult hour. On this walk you will discover the natural beauty of this protected
than other walks in this brochure, paths being steep, narrow and rocky part of the coast. You will follow in the footsteps of patrolmen who, in
in places, particularly following erosion. On all three walks there is an centuries gone by, used the pathways to look out for invaders, pirates
easier option. or smugglers. The route crosses coves and beaches: much is totally
unspoilt, though in some places you will marvel at the depredations
Walk 1: The Cistercian Route from l’Espluga de Francoli to medieval
not of pirates, but of Spanish planning – or, rather, the apparent lack
Montblanc. Coach transfer to l’Espluga de Francoli (45 minutes).
of it! The whole walk to l’Ampolla is just under 11 miles with ascent/
After walking through this old wine village you walk gradually uphill
descent of 170m. The easier option ends after 7 miles at Playa de
towards the sanctuary of the Trinity (coffee stop). You continue through
l’Aliga, with an onward coach transfer to l’Ampolla. Return to Coma-
a forested area, on a broad path before reaching St John’s Hermitage
Ruga is by train from l’Ampolla.
and then descending towards the town of Montblanc. 6 miles, 250m
of ascent/descent. The easier option takes the low route to Montblanc Day Eight: Transfer to the airport for your flight home.
avoiding the climb to and descent from the Hermitage.
Montblanc is a little jewel: a completely unspoilt medieval town with
YOUR HOTEL
fine ramparts, shady streets and impressive churches and squares – NUBAHOTEL HHHH, Coma-Ruga (seven nights)
especially the Placa Major, the Main Square. This is the town where St The description of the hotel is on page 8.
George supposedly fought against the dragon, to save the princess!
From Montblanc you catch one of the two late afternoon trains back to
the coast: they follow different lines, so the journey time varies – 37 Extend your holiday – extra week available in Catalonia
minutes or one hour 14 minutes!
Walk 2: Priorat. You catch the 0948 train to the little village station
at Marça, amid the DOC Montsant wine district, and in the county
of Priorat, arriving at 1101. The line is spectacular, especially after
it emerges from the Argentera tunnel (completed in 1890). Marça
is where the International Brigades (including the British Battalion)
massed in preparation for the disastrous Battle of Ebro in 1938. The
walk is circular, but the landscapes on the outward section – vineyards
and olive groves with a spectacular craggy backdrop – are very
different to the second part where, after passing Capçanes, you go
through a wood and climb through a rocky gully part of the way. 7
Please refer to the enclosed ‘Dates and Flight Information’ for details of departure dates, prices and flights. www.preferredts.com | 9
No SINGLE
NO single
SUPPLEMENT
supplement
IN
March
APRIL
8 days from £649 April & May
Mallorca
Majorca is not all beaches and tacky tourist outlets. As you go to the north–eastern side of the island, Majorca undergoes a
remarkable transformation; changing from high-rise apartment blocks and hotels to the calmer shores around Cala Ratjada,
where your hotel is located. You are now firmly in Mallorca, with its Hispanic spelling and atmosphere, rather than in the land of
its Anglo-Saxon translation! You have the chance to explore the real Mallorca from your base at the Hotel Bella Playa, just a few
metres from the stunning beach of Cala Agulla.
PROGRAMME
Day One: Flight to Palma. On arrival you will be met at the airport and Day Eight: Free time until your departure transfer to the airport for
transferred to your hotel, the Bella Playa, for seven nights half board your flight home.
accommodation. Transfer time 50 minutes.
Days Two to Seven: There are three walks arranged especially
YOUR HOTEL
for Preferred Travel Services Customers (details below). In addition, HOTEL BELLA PLAYA HHHH, Cala Ratjada. (seven nights)
the hotel has its own programme of outings (daily except Sunday), The hotel, on the edge of the resort, adjoins the Levante Natural Park area.
including our featured walks and other additional activities such as a All walks therefore start directly from the hotel. The hotel offers plenty
bike ride to Arta (bike hire approx £9). of sporting activities (tennis courts, heated swimming pool, gymnasium
and discounts for the nearby golf course among others) as well as well-
Walk 1: Cala Ratjada introductory walk. You will head into the dunes furnished rooms (satellite tv, telephone and full bathroom). Prices are
of Cala Agulla, and then go around the peninsula of Cala Ratjada, via based on standard rooms. Superior rooms are available at a supplement.
The hotel also has a wellness centre with pool, sauna, 2 Turkish baths and
Cala Lliteras before arriving at the lighthouse, located at an altitude of relaxation room – free of charge for hotel guests - and free wifi access
70m, and from where you can see the neighbouring island of Menorca. on the Terrace Bar and in Reception. There is a buffet meal each night
Then you follow the coast down to beautiful Cala Gat and on to Cala included with a huge selection of food, including local specialities (www.
Ratjada port. The distance to here is 6 miles: the walk will finish at the bellaplaya.com).
port and our experience is that almost all customers will indeed be
happy to finish there. However, your walking guides will assist anyone
who wishes to extend the walk, by continuing in the direction of Font Extend your holiday – extra week available in Cala Ratjada.
de Sa Cala, a further 2 miles each way.
Walk 2: The mountains of S’heretat and Sa Cove Negre hill. You head
first along the coast to Na Taconera, and then cross the hills and take
a stony path up to 230m in altitude, before descending to Capdepera,
where there is the chance to visit the castle. 7 miles approx.
Walk 3: You head through the pine forest and cross the Es Munt Gros
dunes, before going along the coast to the Punta des Boc (80m high).
You will return along a cobbled path passing through Cala Molto and
Cala Agulla. This walk is 11 miles long. A shorter version may also be
available. Nearby is the ascent to the Son Jaumell watchtower, 270m
up – you may wish to return this way on a free day and do the climb.
From Cala Ratjada there are bus services to Palma and other places on
the island. Near Canyamel can be found the Arta Caves, full of amazing
rock formations such as the ‘Queen of Pillars’. The caves were a place
of refuge for 2,000 Arabs in 1229 when hiding from King Jaume I when
the Christians conquered Mallorca.
10 | www.preferredts.com Please refer to the enclosed ‘Dates and Flight Information’ for details of departure dates, prices and flights.8 days from £819 May
Portugal - the Algarve
To discover the real beauty of the Algarve our escorted walks, through glorious countryside decked with flowers, may
be the answer. In recent years the Algarve has become increasingly popular with walkers who realise that much of the
countryside and coastline remain unspoilt. Your walking guide will show you the very best of the region while allowing you
time to appreciate all that you see. Your resort, Armação de Pêra, boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve,
pretty coves, a panorama of brightly coloured fishing boats and a range of high quality fish restaurants. So why not pack
your walking boots and enjoy the best that the Algarve has to offer?
PROGRAMME
Day One: Flight to Faro and transfer to your hotel in Armação de Day Eight: Free time until your transfer to the airport for your return
Pêra, just 45 minutes away from the airport. Seven nights half board flight.
accommodation is reserved for you.
Days Two to Seven: In resort with three included walking excursions YOUR HOTEL
Walk 1: Alfanzina lighthouse to the Chapel of Our Lady of the Rock, THE HOLIDAY INN ALGARVE (formerly the Hotel Garbe) HHHH,
on the edge of your resort, along one of the most characteristic Armação de Pêra (seven nights)
stretches of Algarve coastline. After a short bus ride, you start your This well-appointed 4 star hotel commands a prime position with a stunning
walk near Alfanzina lighthouse. You follow narrow paths in an area panoramic view of the bay of Armação de Pêra, within strolling distance
of shops, restaurants and entertainment. Its facilities include a restaurant
where the cliffs are made up of different colours of rock – excellent serving buffet-style meals, lounge, bar, free wifi in reception and swimming
photo opportunities, and there are impressive blowholes too. You cross pool. To the side of the hotel there is the Raj Indian Restaurant, which also
the bays of Praia de Marinha and Praia de Benagil to finish near the has superb sea views. Rooms are equipped with bath/shower, wc, hairdryer,
Chapel. The finishing point is just over a mile through Armacao to your direct dial telephone, individually controlled air-conditioning, safe, minibar,
hotel, which you can reach in your own time – just follow along the tea and coffee making facilities and satellite television. Entertainment is also
beach! The walk is 5.5 miles, with climbs totalling 150m approx. provided on certain evenings. (www.hialgarve.com)
Walk 2: Estombar to Silves. Your walk starts near the natural springs of
Extend your holiday – extra week available in the Algarve.
Estombar (15 minutes away by coach), which also provides the water
for the nearby rice fields. You will follow the Arade River - the Moors If you have friends who are not walkers interested in this itinerary, it is
had their regional capital here. The area is rich in birdlife, and you featured in our Escorted Holidays brochure with a touring programme.
will pass plantations of orange and lemon trees, as well as lavender.
You complete your walk in the centre of the pleasant village of Silves,
where there is time to explore before you return to the hotel. 5 miles,
climbs of 50m.
Walk 3: Luz to Praia Dona Ana. The starting point of this walk is the
fishing village of Luz (45 minutes away by coach). You will walk uphill
on small footpaths and then continue along the picturesque coastline.
In the springtime especially, wild orchids accompany you on your way,
together with Affodile and Mastric bushes. There is also a marvellous
view across to the Ponta da Piedade, an impressive rock formation
in the sea. Finally, you will reach Praia Dona Ana, very close to Lagos
and your finishing point. The town is closely associated with Henry the
Navigator, and was the starting port of many Portuguese voyages of
discovery in the 15th and 16th century. Before you return to the hotel,
you will have time to explore Lagos. 6 miles, climbs 80m.
On one of your free days, we will offer a half day excursion to
Monchique, with a 5 mile walk.
Please refer to the enclosed ‘Dates and Flight Information’ for details of departure dates, prices and flights. www.preferredts.com | 118 days from £739 May
The Guadiana River & Western Andalucia
Your holiday base is the 4* Playamarina Hotel on Punta del Moral on Isla Canela in Spain, just over the Portuguese border.
There are guided walks in the Natural Park area of the Donana, the Flecha del Rompido Nature Reserve and a walk and
boat trip along the banks of the Rio Guadiana. In your free time you can relax and enjoy the surroundings of your hotel or
take an optional excursion to the Rio Tinto mines.
PROGRAMME
Day One: Flight to Faro in Portugal and transfer to your hotel on Isla Canela in Spain Rompido where several protected species live on the dunes in a special ecosystem:
for seven nights half board accommodation. The transfer takes around an hour, but among others Stone Curlew, Kentish Plover, Dartford Warbler and the European
you have to put your watches on an hour when you cross the Guadiana which is the Chameleon. This part of the walk is 3.2 miles and ends in El Terron.
border. Walk 3: Alcoutim & the Guadiana River. We head across the river by coach to Portugal
Coastal Western Andalucia is defined by its magnificent wetlands of marshes, and north to Alcoutim (33 miles).The picturesque river town of Alcoutim has a Spanish
shallow rivers and sand dunes. The largest is the Donana Natural Park formed in the twin right on the other side, Sanlucar de Guadiana. The circular walk goes along the
delta of the Guadalquivir. Between here and the Portuguese border, smaller nature river´s edge using the “Via Algarviana”, a trail that crosses the whole Algarve and
reserves surround the mouths of the Odiel and Piedras rivers near Huelva. On the then through reforested pine wood and Mediterranean oaks. 5.3 miles and ascent/
border itself where your hotel is, the Rio Guadiana is the major influence on the descent about 150m. You have time to visit the castle in Alcoutim and lunch before
ecosystem and feeds the marshes in both countries. Local flora and fauna is always taking a lazy 3 hour boat cruise down the beautiful Guadiana river to Ayamonte.
a major attraction of any walk, and, given the abundance of birdlife in the area, one During your stay in Isla Canela there is also an optional excursion to the Rio Tinto
of the walks majors on the birdlife of the Rio Piedras. Mines. There has been mining in the hills 80 miles north-east of Isla Canela for over
Days Two to Seven: In resort with three included guided walks. There is plenty to 5000 years. In the museum in the town of Rio Tinto there is an excellent re-creation
do in your free time. The front of the hotel looks across to the thriving fishing village of the Roman mine. There is British influence in many parts of Spain but nowhere as
and marina of Punta del Moral. You can have a pleasant stroll around the harbour or pronounced than in this remote corner of Andalucia. The pinnacle of mining in the
take a little ferry ride across to Isla Cristina. There is also a short signed-posted walk area began in 1873 with the arrival of the British Rio Tinto Mining Company Ltd who
near the hotel into the Isla Canela ‘Marismas’ (marshes). The rear of the hotel backs paid £3.68 million for the rights to exploit the disused copper mines. The company
on to the promenade from where there are wooden boardwalks across the dunes employed up to 20,000 men, laid 300km of rail track, built houses for employees and
to the beach and the sea which provide a heavenly environment for your morning management, a protestant church and a Social Club which had a cricket team and
constitutional. Walking past the inviting chiringuito (beach bar) might be difficult! introduced football to Spain. The museum is housed in the company’s hospital and
There is a frequent bus service which makes the 5 mile journey to Ayamonte on its offices are now the town hall. Highlight of the tour is the rail journey through the
the Guadiana river. Ayamonte is a bustling ‘frontier’ town with a compact old centre, open cast mines where you’ll see an amazing ‘Martian’ landscape with the red (bright
marina and port. The ‘frontier’ is the river and for under 3 euros you can get a return red!) Rio Tinto river running through it.
ferry across to the pretty town of Vila Real de San Antonio in Portugal. If you can find Day Eight: Transfer back to Faro Airport for your flight home. You can put your watch
the time, a complimentary 1 ½ hour circuit of the hotel’s extensive spa facilities is back an hour after crossing the river.
included for you!
Walk 1: Donana & El Rocio. Travel east by coach past Huelva to the start of your walk
in the Natural Park area of the Donana (67 miles). This walk is through pinewoods
YOUR HOTEL
across the dunes to the sea – but dunes here aren’t quite what you think! They are HOTEL PLAYAMARINA SPA HHHH, Punta del Moral, Isla Canela
ancient sand deposits rising to 100m offering great views of the sea and the pine (seven nights)
forests behind. Just over 4 miles with ascent/descent of 75m. You then travel to the An excellent hotel in a quiet position located between the beach and the
strange town of El Rocio (15 miles away), which seems like something out of the marina on Punta del Moral. The hotel has a buffet restaurant with show
Tex-Mex West, with clapboard houses, sand covered squares and avenues and rails cooking, indoor and outdoor pool. There is also a spa (a free 1 ½ circuit
to tie your horse to! But this is no tourist movie set - in fact it is a major pilgrimage is included for you), bar and entertainment on most evenings. Rooms
site. Your walking guide will take you on a short walk featuring the major sites of this have bath with shower over and separate shower and wc, hairdryer, LCD
fascinating town and there is free time for lunch here before returning to your hotel. tv, air-conditioning, ceiling fan and safe (chargeable), terrace or balcony.
Walk 2: The Rio Piedras and Flecha del Rompido Nature Reserve. 30 mile transfer to Free Wi-Fi in reception (30 mins) – chargeable in room.
the beginning of your walk. You will need your binoculars today. You visit the marshes (www.playasenator.com/en/hoteles/playamarina/)
of El Rompido doing a level walk through the pinewood, the salt marsh and a fish
farm. The area is full of birds and wildflowers and the headland where the lighthouse Extend your holiday – extra week available in Isla Canela
is located offers one of the most beautiful views of the estuary. This part is 2.8 miles If you have friends who are not walkers interested in this itinerary, it is
and ends in the attractive fishing village of El Rompido where there is free time for featured in our Escorted Holidays Brochure with a touring programme.
lunch. In the afternoon you take a ferry trip across to the 10-mile sandspit of El
12 | www.preferredts.com Please refer to the enclosed ‘Dates and Flight Information’ for details of departure dates, prices and flights.8 days from £699 May & June
The High Pyrenees
Mountain air, fertile valleys, spectacular peaks, and great hospitality! The Pyrenees are a walkers’ paradise. After two
nights on the coast in Catalonia, you travel to the small principality of Andorra and the village of Soldeu, perched at over
1600 metres amid wonderful mountain scenery and with great walking right on the doorstep. We have two included guided
walks from Soldeu, and will also take you across the border into France for a walk near Ax-les-Thermes in the scenic
Ariege region. After four nights in Soldeu, you travel a different road back to sparkling, cosmopolitan Barcelona for the
last night of your holiday.
PROGRAMME
Day One: Flight to Barcelona or Reus. Transfer to your coastal hotel, views across the valley as you go. After a rest there, you continue
just under an hour away, for two nights half board accommodation. up towards the Pas de la Vaca and return to your hotel. This walk
is rather more challenging than the other walks in this brochure,
Day Two: Free day in resort.
reaching 2400m, with a possible climb of 700m. Your guides will be
Day Three: Today you travel into the mountains towards Andorra, happy to advise you if you prefer to do something else today – perhaps
stopping en route at Montserrat with its spectacular rock formations, the gentler, well-signposted ‘Cockerel Trail’ towards Canillo village and
and monastery, founded in the 10th century. From there you travel the lovely modernist Meritxell Church. They also reserve the right to
through the Catalan countryside via the little towns of Calaf and Ponts, change the return route of the walk, returning via the bottom of the
into the High Pyrenees and your hotel in the mountain village of Soldeu, Incles Valley instead of over the Pass.
where you have four nights half board accommodation. The journey
Day Seven: After breakfast you leave Andorra and head via the Cadi
time is approx four hours excluding stops.
Range and the Llobregat Valley towards Catalonia’s capital, Barcelona
Soldeu is a scenic mountain village, with a few shops, bars and for one night’s bed and breakfast accommodation. You have a short
restaurants. There is a cable car, which normally operates from July orientation tour, and free time for lunch and sightseeing.
to September, and serves Europe’s highest golf course (9 holes, 2250
Day Eight: Free time until your departure transfer to the airport for
metres up, cable car access only). Guest tickets and club hire are
your flight home.
available to visiting club members from elsewhere.
Days Four to Six: In Soldeu, Andorra, from where you have three
YOUR HOTELS
walks, two in Andorra and one in France.
NUBAHOTEL HHHH, Coma-Ruga (first two nights)
Walk 1: Grau Roig and the Pessons Lakes. There are 22 lakes all in See page 8 for hotel description.
all, surrounded by wonderful mountain scenery. You will see the first SPORT HOTEL HHHH, Soldeu (four nights)
seven as you climb 400m in 2½ hours. The path is stony; the last part Four nights are spent in the Sport Hotel in the village of Soldeu, Andorra.
of the return walk is by the same route so if anyone wishes to do a Rooms have bath/shower, wc, hairdryer, satellite tv, and phone. There is a
shorter walk they can retrace their steps and wait for the rest of the comfortable bar, lounge with free wifi, and restaurant serving excellent food,
group on the terrace of the bar/restaurant by the first lake. as well as an outdoor pool (weather dependent). Soldeu village has a few
shops and bars and a bus service to town. The Sport and Sport Village Hotels
Walk 2: The Ariege Pyrenees. For your second walk you travel over the are on opposite sides of the road, with a tunnel link between them. The hotels
Pass of Envalira and down the wooded Ariege Valley to Ax-les-Thermes have separate reception and bars but on some dates only one restaurant may
in France. The route is circular, starting and finishing in front of the be open. www.sporthotels.ad (click on Sport Hotel not Sport Village)
Casino. You climb 300m up the side of the valley, and pass close to the Hotel Pere IV HHHH, Barcelona (last night)
villages of Ascou (site of the oldest settlement in the valley), Sorgeat, The hotel is situated in the Poble Nou district, midway between the lively
and Ignaux (3 hours walking approx.). After the walk you will have free Olympic port area and the Sagrada Familia. It is a 25 minute walk to the old
time in this pretty spa town, which has a thermal free-access bath by quarter or 3 stops on the Metro. The hotel has a spa area, lounge bar and
restaurant - other bars and restaurants are close by. Bedrooms have bath/
the hospital in the Town Square – a wonderful place to revive your feet
shower and wc, tv with satellite channels, free wifi, and safety deposit box.
after the walk! (www.salleshotels.com)
Walk 3: The Incles Valley. From the hotel, you follow a pleasant path
If you have friends who are not walkers interested in this itinerary, it is
as you climb through the woods towards Siscaro Lake: there are fine
featured in our Escorted Holidays brochure with a touring programme.
Please refer to the enclosed ‘Dates and Flight Information’ for details of departure dates, prices and flights. www.preferredts.com | 13No single
supplement
8 days from £709 April
The Valleys of Roussillon
This holiday offers excellent walking in the hills of the Roussillon area of southwest France, sometimes called French
Catalonia – it only became French in the 17th century. There is a great affinity between the ‘French’ and ‘Spanish’
Catalans, and your holiday includes a stay in both French and Spanish Catalonia. Also included in the holiday is a visit to
Dali’s eccentric theatre-museum in Figueras - a mind-expanding sort of place! – and some time in the wonderful city of
Barcelona. In short, this is a unique opportunity to walk in, and discover, one of the most fascinating parts of Europe and
to enjoy the sunshine of the Mediterranean at the same time!
PROGRAMME
Day One: Flight to Reus or Barcelona. On arrival transfer to your Mackintosh for many years, before continuing to the artists’ resort of
coastal hotel for two nights half board accommodation. Transfer time Collioure, a port since Roman times. The spectacular Chateau-Royal
50 minutes. is worth a visit, and reproductions of works by artists who painted
in Collioure (Matisse and Derain in particular) will be found on the
Day Two: Optional half-day excursion to the Roman city of Tarragona
quaysides. 6 miles, 300m of ascent/descent.
where you can see the amphitheatre, port and beach and stroll through
the medieval centre. Under the Romans, Tarragona was the capital of Day Seven: Today you journey back south to the Costa Dorada for
the Province of Northern Spain and home to the Emperor Augustus – a the last night of your holiday, which is again on a half board basis.
Temple in his honour stood on the site of the current Cathedral. En route a stop will be made in the exciting city of Barcelona, capital
of Catalonia. Ramble(!) down the Rambla and you will find pavement
Day Three: Today you depart for France. En route you make a stop in
artists and buskers, stalls selling all kinds of bric-a-brac - an avenue
Dali’s home town of Figueras, close to the French border, and home to
bursting with life and colour. Or you can visit the weird and wonderful
his surreal (in the truest sense!) theatre-museum (entrance included).
cathedral of the Sagrada Familia - Gaudi’s masterpiece.
The Dali Museum is one of the most-visited museums in Spain…and
with its luminous-egg façade, it is not just the interior that seems to Day Eight: Free time until your transfer to the airport for your return
want to stretch your mind! From there it is just an hour to your hotel in flight.
Amélie-les-Bains, in the spectacular Vallespir valley, where you have
four nights half board accommodation. YOUR HOTELS
NUBAHOTEL HHHH, Coma-Ruga. (first two and last nights)
Days Four to Six: In Amélie with three included walks.
See Page 8 for hotel description.
Walk 1: The Tech Valley and Arles. You head inland, taking a path HOTEL DE LA REINE AMELIE HHH, Amélie-les-Bains (four nights)
which rises gently behind Arles-sur-Tech, whose narrow streets cluster
In the rugged Vallespir Valley, alongside the River Tech, Amelie is a spa
around its 8th century abbey. You will have time to explore here before town 20 miles from the coast and surrounded by pleasant mountain
returning to Amelie along the river. 5.3 miles, 105m of ascent/descent. scenery. The hotel has a bar, lounge area, restaurant and comfortable
Walk 2: The High Vallespir. You travel 40 minutes further up the bedrooms with private bath/shower, wc, tv, free wifi, and phone. Some
have a balcony too. (www.reineamelie.com)
Vallespir Valley to the fortified village of Prats de Mollo. A little further
on lies the Spanish border at Col d’Ares, where you start your 3 hour If you have friends who are not walkers interested in this itinerary, it is
walk on the ‘Cami de la Retirada’ – the Refugees’ Way that many featured in our Escorted Holidays brochure with a touring programme.
followed out of Spain during the Civil War. You will also walk up to
Vauban’s impressive Fort Lagarde, and take in the village church with
its impressive altarpiece. Prats de Mollo stands on the side of the
impressive Mount Canigou, snow-capped for much of the year, and
with forests and mountain meadows abounding. 4.5 miles, 800m
descent with 100m ascent/descent to the fort.
Walk 3: The Vermilion Coast. You travel 45 minutes to the coast at
Banyuls sur Mer, for a four - hour coastal walk following the ‘Customs
Agent’s Path’. You make a stop in Port Vendres - home to Rennie
14 | www.preferredts.com Please refer to the enclosed ‘Dates and Flight Information’ for details of departure dates, prices and flights.You can also read
