Highlights of North India

India is a daunting destination for many, but ultimately one of the most rewarding travel experiences you will ever have.  For their first trip, most people will travel around the north.  Here is a summary of the highlights of North India.

For a map and photos, see my Pinterest site.  For actual experiences, see my other post, unique experiences in North India.

Delhi, India's capital is an exciting, busy, and often chaotic city but it's also one of the most interesting in the world with historical sites from different eras, museums and galleries, shops and endless bazaars!
There are plenty of things to see and do. Visit the World Heritage-listed Mughal masterpiece of Humayun's Tomb. This was the first garden tomb in India, built way back in 1570. Wonder at the tall brick minaret of Qutub Minar, which was started back in the 1100s. Explore the mighty Red Fort of Delhi. Part palace and part fort, it plays an integral part in the history of the city with former residents ranging from royal families to British soldiers.
Set off on the city's modern metro system, then get a taste of India's famed public transport with a cycle rickshaw ride through chaotic streets, such as the famous Chandni Chowk. Make a visit to the Jama Masjid, Delhi's oldest mosque and one of its most impressive buildings, then visit the Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple) to learn about the Sikh religion.
See my post about experiences in North India for a great place to shop in Delhi.

The ultimate destination for all Hindu pilgrims, Varanasi is full of temples, shrines and devotees. It may not be one of the world's cleanest cities but there is no doubt it is one of the world's most amazing.
Spend the evening soaking up the magical atmosphere of a candle flower ceremony, serenaded by traditional musicians on a Ganges river cruise as the sun sets.
Visit the Ram Nagar Fort which lies about 14 km from Varanasi on the opposite bank of River Ganga. Built by Maharaja Balwant Singh in the 18th century, it's the ancestral home of the Maharaja of Banaras.
See my post about experiences in North India for an early morning boat ride on the Ganges and sleeper trains, which are often used between Delhi, Varanasi and Agra.

Bandhavgarh National Park is truly one of India's most magnificent wildernesses with a relative abundance of tigers compared to other national parks, so your chances of spotting some are high.  There is plenty of wildlife that lives in these forests, so even if you don't see a tiger, you could see wild boars, jackals, nilgais, sambars or porcupines.

Far from any major population centres, modern or historical, Khajuraho's remote location saved its stunning 1,000-year-old temples - infamous for their explicit carvings depicting the entire Kama Sutra - from destruction by foreign invaders.
Khajuraho's 'Kama Sutra' Temples were all built during the Chandela Dynasty 1,000 years ago, most within a 100 to 150-year time frame. These temples have baffled foreigners and Indians alike since their rediscovery by the British in the late 19th century. What they were built for and what the delicate and erotic carvings mean is open to wide interpretation.

Agra Fort on the banks of the Yamuna River was built in 1565 by Emperor Akbar. It was converted to a palace in Emperor Shah Jahan's time and eventually became his prison after he lost power in 1658.
At sunrise or sunset visit the Taj Mahal - a masterpiece of shimmering white marble set amid beautiful formal gardens. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his wife Mumtaz, this 'teardrop on the face of eternity' (as it was described by Rabindranath Tagore) lives up to all expectations.

The magnificent deserted Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri was built by Emperor Akbar in 1569, but was abandoned after 15 years due to the scarcity of water. A highlight of the settlement is Jama Masjid, a striking mosque featuring elements of both Persian and Hindu design. The main entrance of the mosque is the impressive 54-metre high Buland Darwaza, the Gate of Victory, constructed to commemorate Akbar's military victory in Gujarat.

A friendly, busy town crammed with palaces and bazaars full of jewellery, textiles and folk-based arts, Jaipur is a firm favourite with travellers.
Make a stop at India's most photographed building after the Taj Mahal, the Hawa Mahal or 'Palace of the Winds'.
Take a walk to the city's crowded and colourful bazaars, which sell a wide variety of artisan goods. Semi-precious stones are the local speciality - be sure to wander by the stalls at least once.
Go to Jaipur's Royal City Palace - one of India's finest - and spend time exploring the various rooms and apartments.
Visit one of the five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh, the founder of Jaipur.  Be sure to stop at the old capital of Amber and explore the hilltop fort complex known as the Amber Palace.
See my post about experiences in North India for  a great place to see a Bollywood Blockbuster.

One of the biggest and most renowned national parks in northern India, Ranthambhore was once a famous hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur - today it's a major wildlife tourist attraction.
Take 4WD safari vehicles and go searching for tigers and other wildlife inside the park.
Explore Ranthambhore Fort. Founded in 944, few of the buildings inside have survived the ravages of war and time, but among the remaining ruins, two pavilions - Badal Mahal and Hammirs Court - give an idea of its old grandeur.

See my post about experiences in North India for village and heritage stays in India.

Udaipur undoubtedly lives up to its reputation as India's most romantic city. Rolling hills, white marble palaces and lakes come together appealingly and it's a centre for artists, dancers and musicians. The shopping is also superb, with miniature paintings being the speciality.
Visit City Palace, one of the largest royal palaces in India, and check out the unbelievable treasures within - from vivid murals to antiques and royal utensils.
Enjoy a boat ride on the famous Lake Pichola and see marvels like the Lake Palace and Jag Mandir Island.
See my post about experiences in North India for  musical concerts in Udaipur.

Pushkar is one of the India's holiest places. It's also a market centre for many of the local village people and a great place to sit back and relax.
Head out to explore Pushkar's main bazaar and many sidestreets - some great bargains can be had, as some of the cheapest clothes and jewellery in northern India can be found here. Walk around the lake, with its bustling ghats and temples, to watch the devout as they worship at the holy waters. Visit the only Brahma Temple in India.
Take a camel ride out into the local desert area. For those who don't want to ride a camel, there's a camel cart option.
Early risers can make the sunrise hike up the hill to the Savitri Temple for magical views over the town. There could also be a wonderful steaming glass of chai waiting for you if the chai man is there - certainly well worth the trek.
See my post about experiences in North India for the annual Pushkar camel fair.

The city of Jaisalmer is one of the old Rajasthan capitals, dominated by the old fort with a commanding view over the Thar Desert. Built of beautiful yellow sandstone, the fort's walls are a tawny beige colour during the day, fading to honey-gold as the sun sets. The monumental walls are ornately designed with imposing parapets and towers at every turn, covered in intricate stonework - and in the old town the havelis (houses of once important Jaisalmer families) look like small palaces with façades covered in fine carvings and highly decorated balconies.
See my post about experiences in North India for camel safaris in to the desert.

Jodhpur, situated on the edge of the Thar Desert, is affectionately known as "the blue city" because of the many indigo coloured houses in the old town. These are best seen from the ramparts of the mighty Meherangarth Fortress, which looms above the bustling city.  Be sure to take the audio tour here, narrated by none less than Roger Moore.
Elsewhere in the city, Nai Sadak is the place to head for shopping, lined with shoe and sari shops, or check out Sardar Market, a riot of sights, sounds and smells that's a baffling assault on the senses. Nearby are the historical sites of Jaswant Thada, built at the end of the 19th century and constructed entirely out of sheets of marble; and Mandore, the ancient capital of Marwar.

Praying in the Ganges in Varanasi

Experiences in North India

In an earlier post I wrote about the places to see in North India.  But India is foremost about experiencing it.  Here is my selection of unique experiences in North India.

Sleeper trains are clean and air-conditioned, a great way to travel long distances and still get maximum time in each place. Beds are padded berths with sheets, pillow and blanket provided but some people prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. Please note you may be sharing with locals in a same gender/mixed gender situation.

Ganges boat ride: an early morning boat trip on the Ganges is an experience not easily forgotten.  From the moment you reach the ghats, the energy that comes with throngs of pilgrims bathing, singing and praying at the riverside, is palpable.  Witness it all from a small boat being rowed along the river.

Village stay: Enjoy a drive in open jeeps out into the countryside visiting rural villages and getting an insight into their lives - a special and unique experience indeed!

Heritage stay: be treated to a night of luxury in a wonderful heritage stay, often located in a fortified mansion still run by the erstwhile local landlord and his family. Such a place is a perfect place to take a break and immerse yourself in the local culture and lifestyle. The place is warm and people and staff friendly, welcoming all their guests and treating them as part of the family.

Camel safari: often done out of Jaisalmer and into the Thar Desert, exploring the desert with local Rajasthani camel drivers is the most authentic way to experience the area. You camp out in the desert, and, depending on the comfort level of your trip, you sleep in comfortable en-suite tents, or under the stars.

Discover the extravagance of a Bollywood blockbuster, with all the Hollywood-style elements of action, romance, drama and music (sometimes all rolled into one).  A great place to do this is at the spectacular Raj Mandir Cinema in Jaipur.

Shop to your heart's content in Delhi's Dilli Hat.  Dilli Haat is an open-air food plaza and cradia, showing a variety of cultural traditions of India.  Products offered may include rosewood and sandalwood carvings, embellished camel hide footwear, sophisticated fabric and drapery, gems, beads, brassware, metal crafts, and silk and wool fabrics. A number of shows promoting handicrafts and handlooms are held at the exhibition hall in the complex.

In Udaipur, be part of a musical concert combining seven traditional Rajasthani folk dances.

Held each November at the time of the Kartik Purnima full moon, the Pushkar Camel Fair is one of India’s most highly-rated travel experiences, a spectacle on an epic scale.  It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the colour, spectacle and carnival of one of the last great traditional melas, which brings livestock, farmers, traders and villagers from all over Rajasthan.

New trips in the Americas for 2014

In North, Central and South America we have some great new trips for 2014. 

In earlier blog posts I wrote about new walking and hiking trips and new cycling trips for 2014.  For less active cultural trips, we offer some great small-group tours.  Below is our lineup of new tours in Europe for 2014.  For more new trips ideas, click on these blog posts: Europe, Asia, Off-the-beaten-track.


The US Northwest: some of the most rugged and iconic landscapes in the US are found in the American Northwest. This vast untouched wilderness offers a pristine habitat for wildlife and is also of great geological interest. We stay in historic lodges in the heart of Glacier, Yellowstone, Mt Rainier and Olympic National Parks. The lodges are perfect bases in which to relax after active days spent in the outdoors, before stepping out the next morning straight back into sublime surroundings.

Argentina, Chile & Bolivia: this once in a lifetime tour takes in the staggering natural and cultural wonders that Argentina, Chile and Bolivia have to offer, as well as cosmopolitan Buenos Aires. There are few sights greater than the world?s largest salt flats, one of the highest geyser fields in the world, the colossal Iguazu Falls, and the wind-carved landscapes of San Pedro de Atacama! There's also plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities as we visit World Heritage Sites, parks and wetlands, plus the chance to experience life on an authentic 'Gaucho ranch'.

Highlights of Nicaragua: from the twin peaks of Ometepe Island to the ashen slopes of Cerro Negro Volcano, the 'Land of Lakes and Volcanoes' is a great way to escape the crowds. Travel through misty cloud forest, full of birds, wildlife and the sweet smell of orchids, and to isolated Pacific beaches where nesting olive ridley turtles arrive en masse (in season). We also have time to enjoy colonial Granada and revolutionary Leon; rustic, charming cities.


Explore El Salvador: delve into the unassuming beauty of El Salvador and discover why this is one of the hidden gems of Central America. This trip gives you a sumptuous taste of life in this fascinating country, taking you from the lush nature reserves near Ahuachapan, to the charming colonial streets of Suchitoto and the buzzing capital of San Salvador. Sail onto brilliant blue lakes, hike among rich birdlife in spectacular national parks, and discover the Cerro Verde volcano. Walk down cobbled streets and admire colourful houses in a nostalgic small town, and discover a flourishing arts scene hiding behind old colonial doors. Then, bask in the hipster vibe of San Salvador’s bar and café scene and get immersed in a city bursting with energy and contradictions. There are plenty of things to love about El Salvador, and this trip reveals some of the best.

Hawaii: oh Hawaii, you tropical, sun-blessed beauty. Be swooned by the sun, romanced by the people and lulled to sleep by the waves crashing on coral reef. Spend the days lazing on white sands, exploring active volcanoes or catching some gnarly breaks. And come night-time, hit up an evening luau on the beach, where campfires burn, traditional Hawaiian fare is served and moonlight dancing takes the centre stage. Hawaii is everything you have ever been told about it – incredible landscapes, irresistible beaches, delectable food and an unmistakable island vibe. It might just be your perfect slice of paradise.

In earlier blog posts I wrote about new walking and hiking trips and new cycling trips for 2014.  For less active cultural trips, we offer some great small-group tours.  Below is our lineup of new tours in Europe for 2014.  For more new trips ideas, click on these blog posts: Europe, Asia, Off-the-beaten-track.

New Europe trips for 2014

In earlier blog posts I wrote about new walking and hiking trips and new cycling trips for 2014.  For less active cultural trips, we offer some great small-group tours.  Below is our lineup of new tours in Europe for 2014.  For more new trips ideas, click on these blog posts: Americas, Asia, Off-the-beaten-track.

Northern Spain: a far cry from the sun-parched south, northern Spain's gentler climate promises lush green countryside, architecturally impressive cities and stunning coastline. Travelling by train through the region's beautiful landscapes makes for an unforgettable experience as we admire the cities of Madrid, Bilbao and Barcelona, walk the Picos de Europa and the Camino de Santiago and enjoy a relaxing day in coastal San Sebastian.

Discover Slovakia & the Czech Republic: this is a great chance to visit some of the hidden gems from the former Czechoslovakia. The cultural heritage is superb, with an array of castles, vineyards, towns and villages dating from the middle ages onwards. There is also time in the Tatra Mountains that form some of the region's natural borders, as well as being home to natural phenomena such as the Dobsinska Ice Cave.

Balkan Discoverer: the Balkan Peninsula for many is one of the last undiscovered corners of Europe. Cultural and natural variety abound here, forged over the centuries by numerous political changes and imperial influences from the Byzantine to the Ottoman. We contrast Belgrade, Skopje and Tirana with traditional towns, villages, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and places of untouched natural beauty. Each country offers a different culture, cuisine and tradition to discover, each growing as an independent nation in its own right and taking its place in the modern world. This is a rare chance to see the re-emergence of places kept off limits until relatively recently.

Discover the Baltics: this brand new itinerary explores the highlights of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania in 12 days. The countryside, national parks and coastal areas of these countries are stunning, adding a touch of wilderness to the history, art, architecture and culture of the cities and towns that we visit as we journey from Tallinn to Vilnius. With street art, sculpture, incredible architecture and fascinating historical sites, this trip will undoubtedly satisfy your cultural hunger. However, the wild and open settings and picturesque landscapes will also feed your imagination.


Classic Russia & Ukraine: discover the hidden secrets, spectacular landscapes and intriguing imperial tales of Russia and Ukraine on this unique journey through the region’s highlights and backroads. Walk in the footsteps of literary greats in staggering St Petersburg, be astounded by the opulent former palaces of the Tsars and behold magical St. Basil’s Cathedral by night. Step off the beaten trail for a Cossack experience in Petrushivka village, sample a hearty home-cooked Ukrainian dinner and work up a sweat of a different kind in a traditional Russian ‘banya’. Perplexing, abstruse and intriguing at every turn, this adventure through Russia and Ukraine is sure to thwart all expectations of this fascinating part of the world.

Athens to Istanbul: explore Greece and Turkey on this whirlwind adventure. Get lost in cities of colourful chaos and natural beauty that must be seen to be believed. With a plethora of ancient treasures to discover, see where democracy began and how life was lived when Zeus called all the shots. Bask in the Grecian sun on lazy beaches and explore ancient ruins and rituals of the past. After days filled with lively adventure, unwind in the evening with a sip of ouzo over a banquet of culinary treats. Yamas!

Armenia, Georgia & Azerbaijan: the Caucasus region of Central Asia holds a wealth of unexplored territories. Wedged between two seas, surrounded by Europe's largest mountain range and straddling two continents, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia are home to some extraordinarily beautiful scenery and incredibly hospitable people. Journey from the fascinating Old City of Baku in Azerbaijan through the quaint towns and glorious hillsides of Georgia, before finishing the adventure in Armenia's laid-back capital, Yerevan. Mixing isolated villages, populous capital cities, ancient castles, breathtaking vistas, abundant natural resources and a flashy nouveau riche, this region of Caucasia offers up a variety of surprising contrasts, fascinating sights and stunning landscapes.

In earlier blog posts I wrote about new walking and hiking trips and new cycling trips for 2014.  For less active cultural trips, we offer some great small-group tours.  For more new trips ideas, click on these blog posts: Americas, Asia, Off-the-beaten-track.

New Asia trips for 2014

In Asia we have the following new trips lined up for 2014.

In earlier blog posts I wrote about new walking and hiking trips and new cycling trips for 2014.  For less active cultural trips, we offer some great small-group tours.  Below is our lineup of new tours in Europe for 2014.  For more new trips ideas, click on these blog posts: Americas, Europe, Off-the-beaten-track.


Discover Bangladesh: this intoxicating new trip offers genuine experiences in a destination largely untouched and unexplored by foreign tourists. Outside the chaotic cities we discover the country's true beauty, including the lush tea plantations and rainforest around Srimongal, the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Paharpur and Bagerhat, as well as two days spent exploring the wilderness of Sundarbans National Park, the largest mangrove forest on earth. Bangladesh may not offer the grand sites of its neighbours but adventure is guaranteed and the open hearted people of this country are the true highlight.


Cambodia AOA: Cambodia, a diverse country with a captivating history, is unveiled during this trip. After arrival in bustling Phnom Penh we head to picturesque Kampot, a land of paddy fields and pepper plantations. We pause for lunch at Kep Bay to enjoy views across the Gulf of Thailand before transferring to Koh Kong, at the foot of the Cardamom Mountains. Returning to Phnom Penh we visit the Royal Palace and the sobering 'Killing Fields' before departing for Battambang, a well-preserved colonial town. Finally, we discover the temple complex of Angkor with a sunset visit and a bike ride to the less-visited temples.

Volcanoes and Temples of Indonesia: few countries can boast as much natural and cultural diversity as Indonesia. The largest archipelago in the world, it is made of over 17,500 beach-fringed tropical islands where terraced rice paddies give way to luxuriant jungles and are often dominated by towering volcanoes. Ancient cultures have left their mark with spectacular temples and their rich traditions are still practiced today in the country's towns and villages.

Classic Uzbekistan: strategically positioned along the Silk Route, the cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva were famed trading centres for the caravans that passed this way in ancient times. On this trip we follow in their footsteps, discovering magnificent architecture and bustling bazaars that have changed little since the rule of Tamerlane. This is a spectacular journey to the heart of Central Asia.

New off-the-beaten-track trips for 2014

True adventures are found off the beaten track and we have some great trips lined up for 2014.

In earlier blog posts I wrote about new walking and hiking trips and new cycling trips for 2014.  For less active cultural trips, we offer some great small-group tours.  Below is our lineup of new tours in Europe for 2014.  For more new trips ideas, click on these blog posts: Americas, Europe, Asia.


Highlights of Nicaragua: from the twin peaks of Ometepe Island to the ashen slopes of Cerro Negro Volcano, the 'Land of Lakes and Volcanoes' is a great way to escape the crowds. Travel through misty cloud forest, full of birds, wildlife and the sweet smell of orchids, and to isolated Pacific beaches where nesting olive ridley turtles arrive en masse (in season). We also have time to enjoy colonial Granada and revolutionary Leon; rustic, charming cities.

Explore El Salvador: delve into the unassuming beauty of El Salvador and discover why this is one of the hidden gems of Central America. This trip gives you a sumptuous taste of life in this fascinating country, taking you from the lush nature reserves near Ahuachapan, to the charming colonial streets of Suchitoto and the buzzing capital of San Salvador. Sail onto brilliant blue lakes, hike among rich birdlife in spectacular national parks, and discover the Cerro Verde volcano. Walk down cobbled streets and admire colourful houses in a nostalgic small town, and discover a flourishing arts scene hiding behind old colonial doors. Then, bask in the hipster vibe of San Salvador’s bar and café scene and get immersed in a city bursting with energy and contradictions. There are plenty of things to love about El Salvador, and this trip reveals some of the best.

Northern Namibia and Angola: this is a trip for anyone who is ready to get away from the normal tourist trail and explore a remote but fascinating part of Southern Africa; a hardly inhabited area of dramatic beauty and incredible scenery where age-old tribes eke out a nomadic existence and animals roam beyond the borders of any national park. This is a pioneering journey through remote lands where few others have been, following faint sand tracks instead of roads, sleeping under the stars where no hotel would feature, and meeting the magnificent Himba tribe who are strangers to modern society and live as their ancestors have for many centuries.

Armenia, Georgia & Azerbaijan: the Caucasus region of Central Asia holds a wealth of unexplored territories. Wedged between two seas, surrounded by Europe's largest mountain range and straddling two continents, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia are home to some extraordinarily beautiful scenery and incredibly hospitable people. Journey from the fascinating Old City of Baku in Azerbaijan through the quaint towns and glorious hillsides of Georgia, before finishing the adventure in Armenia's laid-back capital, Yerevan. Mixing isolated villages, populous capital cities, ancient castles, breathtaking vistas, abundant natural resources and a flashy nouveau riche, this region of Caucasia offers up a variety of surprising contrasts, fascinating sights and stunning landscapes.

Discover Bangladesh: this intoxicating new trip offers genuine experiences in a destination largely untouched and unexplored by foreign tourists. Outside the chaotic cities we discover the country's true beauty, including the lush tea plantations and rainforest around Srimongal, the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Paharpur and Bagerhat, as well as two days spent exploring the wilderness of Sundarbans National Park, the largest mangrove forest on earth. Bangladesh may not offer the grand sites of its neighbours but adventure is guaranteed and the open hearted people of this country are the true highlight.

In earlier blog posts I wrote about new walking and hiking trips and new cycling trips for 2014.  For less active cultural trips, we offer some great small-group tours.  Below is our lineup of new tours in Europe for 2014.  For more new trips ideas, click on these blog posts: Americas, Europe, Asia.

New cycling trips for 2014

In an earlier post I wrote about new walking and hiking trips all over the world.  Here is our line-up of new cycling trips for 2014.  For more new trips ideas, click on these blog posts: Americas, Europe, Asia, Off-the-beaten-track.


Cycling France - Pedalling through Provence: dominated by rugged mountains and lavender fields, Provence has been inhabited since ancient times and boasts some fabulous Roman architecture.  The scenery is unsurpassed as we ride from village to village and soak in the landscapes of vineyards, poppy and lavender fields that captivated the artist Paul Cézanne. With time to discover typical Provencal market towns and sample the local food and wine, there is also plenty to enjoy when you're out of the saddle.

Cycling Spain - Rioja: Cycling & Wine: La Rioja is a broad valley of undulating vineyards and craggy hills, where walled hilltop towns reflect the turbulent times of earlier centuries. Our exploration on two wheels starts in the beautiful city of Burgos, the historic capital of Castile. Following the Via Verde cycle route, we continue into the heart of the Demanda mountain range and reach the fertile land of La Rioja. Surrounded by vineyards, we cycle across the gentle rolling countryside and taste the excellent wines produced in the region. We spend a night in the UNESCO-listed Yuso Monastery, now converted in a charming hotel.

Cycling Italy - Cycling in Sicily: Sicily has to be one of the most fascinating islands in Europe. There is an incredibly diverse history, thanks to almost every civilisation leaving their mark, including the Phoenecians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans and Spanish. On our exciting cycle through the south-eastern part of the island, we enjoy varied scenery of high plateaux of lava and limestone, a number of impressive gorges and beautiful sandy beaches along the stunning coastline. Starting near Chiaramonte, we enjoy views of the wonderful Anapo Valley that includes all the flora and fauna typical of Sicily. We continue to historic Ragusa Ibla, Palazzolo Acreide and Noto, with their Baroque architecture and Greek ruins, some of the best preserved in southern Italy. The trip ends in Siracusa, one of the most historic cities of the Mediterranean. Each hotel we visit offers a warm welcome, and we can savour delicious Sicilian cuisine and enjoy relaxing on the beach.

Cycling through Croatia & Slovenia: Croatia's Istrian peninsula offers the perfect setting for a cycling holiday, linking historic towns, beautiful coastline and pretty inland villages with trails through green hills and lush fields, vineyards and olive groves. Our route will stop in the town of Rovinj, known as the 'little Venice' of Croatia, and Porec, famed for the stunning Byzantine mosaics housed in the UNESCO Euphrasian Basilica. Our trip ends in Slovenia with a ride around Postojna and the chance to visit the famous stalactite cave, before we head on to the vibrant capital of Ljubljana.

New hiking and walking trips for 2014

With walking and hiking trips all over the world, we still manage to find some great new trips each year.  Here is our line-up of new walking and hiking trips for 2014.  For more new trips ideas, click on these blog posts: Cycling, Americas, Europe, Asia, Off-the-beaten-track.


Wildflowers & Waterfalls of the Swiss Alps: the Bernese Oberland is the ideal picturesque setting for scenic walks: glaciers, numerous stunning waterfalls and lush green valleys provide a spectacular backdrop for a relaxing week. All walks are set at a gentle pace leaving plenty of time to admire the 'chocolate box' villages we pass through, or to stop and enjoy a refreshing drink in the warm spring sunshine.  Striking wild flowers flourish and carpet the meadows in colourful blankets. Our base for the week is a cosy, traditional Swiss hotel found in the charming village of Wilderswil and we use a mixture of local trains and buses to explore the natural beauty that this stunning region has to offer.

Provence: a stunning part of Provence and relatively untouched by tourism, Greoux les Bains offers the perfect base for a week of gentle daywalks. From our comfortable converted chateau, we explore the region with a mixture of walks from the door or following a short private bus transfer. With the bustling market town of Forcalquier, the dramatic Verdon Gorge and depending on the season, fields of lavender or poppies just a short drive away, there is much to be explored.

Lake Garda, Italy: the contrasting landscape of dramatic mountains, clear water and sandy coves make Lake Garda a wonderful place to visit. Close to the lake, the atmosphere is Mediterranean, with a mild climate supporting palms and lemon groves alongside the olives and vines. Away from the shore craggy mountains rise rapidly and the citrus groves give way to forest and alpine meadows. The multitude of lakeside villages have historically been linked by boat, which we use to explore the area along with a combination of buses and cable car.

Walking Dubrovnik and Montenegro: this walking trip is packed with highlights, combining gentle walks with the very best cultural attractions. We have plenty of time to explore the UNESCO cities of Dubrovnik and Kotor; interspersed with walks in the rolling hills and mountains that surround these cities. Enjoying the azure coastline will also be a priority and we will have the opportunity to appreciate the tranquility of the quiet bays on the idylic island of Lopud. Dubrovnik is a must see for any visitor to this area and with four nights here you will have plenty of time to explore. With gentle walks, fascinating culture and coastal serenity, this trip is the perfect amble towards relaxation.

Walking Malta and Gozo: in the heart of the Mediterranean, lie the beautiful and always sun-kissed Maltese Islands. The bustling island of Malta is home to the oldest megalithic temples on Earth, the UNESCO Old City of Valletta and bucolic inland paths. Leaving Malta behind, the tranquil, verdant island of Gozo, dotted with delightful honey-coloured villages and dramatic coastline, is a paradise for walkers. The hotels used on this holiday have been carefully handpicked for their charming character and unique location, perfect for relaxing after a day of walking.

Namibia, Trekking & Tribes: caught between the Kalahari and the Atlantic Ocean is a country of extreme natural beauty where wildlife roam and some of the continent's most charismatic tribes still live a traditional lifestyle. As well as exploring some of Namibia's highlights such as Etosha N.P. and the world's highest sand dunes at Sossusvlei, we learn about the San Bushmen's hunter/gatherer traditions, visit a Himba village and go on game walks in some of the country's smaller parks.

Trails of Ladakh, India: sandwiched between the western Himalaya, the Karakorum and the Tibetan Plateau, lies the high altitude desert of Ladakh, or 'Little Tibet'. Time in the capital Leh gives us the perfect opportunity to acclimatise as well as exploring the town, Leh Palace and some of the most important monasteries in the area. This fairly gentle trek gives us the chance to enjoy the views and experience village life, in this most remote area of India with its rich culture, where the way of life hasn't changed for centuries.

Trekking in Burma: we visit the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda, the cultural heart of the nation, and Bagan with its plain of 4000 temples. For our trekking we head to the Chin Hills of north west Burma. This area is home to the ethnic Chin people whose culture and traditions have changed little over the centuries. Women are adorned with tattooed faces and we will stay in monasteries and school houses, immersing ourselves amongst this welcoming culture. Passing forested hills, tea plantations and lush valleys we end the trek with an ascent of Mt Victoria (3063m) for magnificent views of the surrounding area.

Costa Rica - Volcano & Tropical Paradise Walk: follow handpicked walking trails in search of wildlife, waterfalls and outstanding views. From emerald rainforests, smouldering volcanoes and tropical savannah, to steam-fed springs and bubbling mud pools, vibrant Costa Rica is a destination that always delivers. Country tracks or forest trails lead us to a number of waterfalls, where mineral rich water provides the perfect refresher after a day's walking! A visit to Ecotermales Hot Springs near Arenal Volcano is also included to soothe any aching muscles.

Walking Trails of Brazil: giant flattop mountains rise above the grasslands whilst crystal-clear waterfalls, streams, underground rivers, unusual rock formations and caves are scattered between limestone escarpments. This scenery, risen from the ocean and carved by wind, water and time, greets visitors to Brazil's 'Diamond Plateau'. Chapada Diamantina, in the northeast of the country, inland from the colonial capital of Salvador, may be little known but is Brazil's premier trekking destination and its own Lost World.