Walking Holidays in the UK & Europe · 10 April 3 3.5 . Shropshire Hills - Easter £535.00. N/A...

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Striding, Walking, Strolling and Ambling We Cater for All Types

Walking Holidays in the UK & Europe

For Couples, Solo Travellers, Strollers and Groups

2020

Secret Hills Brochure 2020.qxp_Layout 1 04/09/2019 16:29

www.secrethillswalking.co.uk . www.shortbreaksforsingles.co.uk

We believe that we offer the best holiday experience - we consider the following points to be key in your decision-making process

Experience - Secret Hills have been designing and delivering walking holidays in the UK and Europe for 16 years. Our holidays are all designed by experienced staff who plan the walking around the needs of our clients.

Personal Service - we strongly encourage anyone who is interested in joining us to discuss their requirements with us before booking. We can advise on all aspects of your needs.

Value for Money - all our holidays are excellent value for money. We provide an exceptional service at a very competitive price, but we do not compromise on the quality of every element of your holiday.

Walk Leaders - we use experienced and knowledgeable walk leaders, who know their walking areas very well. Their responsibility is to ensure that you have an enjoyable, safe and interesting holiday. We ensure total commitment, flexibility and personal attention at all times.

Why Choose a Secret Hills Guided Walking Holiday

Contents What You Get 3

Solo Travellers 4-5

Walking Breaks in the UK 6

Strolling and Exploring Holidays 7

Guided Walking in Europe 8

Fantastic Island Walking 9

Awesome Alpine Walking 10-11

Portugal and the Algarve 12

New Holidays for 2020 13

Guides Walking for Groups 14

Festive Specials 15

Flexibility - we recognise that each individual who joins one of our holidays is different, and we provide an individual service within the framework of a holiday. We understand that each requirement will need to be assessed and agreed as the holiday proceeds.

Flexibility - you may need additional nights, specific diets, personal travel plans, all before you join a holiday. We are happy to provide that through our professional pre-holiday administration service - just ask!

Your Safety - is top priority. We examine each walk many times prior to you walking them, and our attention to detail in our walks planning is excellent. If we do have any safety/accident issues, we have excellent experience, training and qualifications to deal with any emergencies.

ATOL Bonding - on our European Holidays we have ATOL bonding insurance, always an excellent guarantee that your holiday reservation is secure.

Lastly, client feed back - you can see what our clients feel about how we conduct our holidays - see www.secrethillswalking.co.uk for a complete range of testimonials.

Welcome to Our 2020 Walks Brochure Secret Hills Walking Holidays is run by a team of dedicated walk leaders led by Alan Garner.

We aim to provide the best guided walking, with the aim of flexible, affordable and value for money holidays.

We have designed guided walking holidays for you in areas of the country where you will find beautiful landscapes - where there is a magic in the hills and valleys, and where you can get away from the hustle and bustle to relax. Our aim is to give you a true experience of the area you have chosen - whether in the UK or Europe.

This brochure is supported by our very comprehensive website www.secrethillswalking.co.uk - where there is much more detail on each holiday.

Everything is arranged for you on a Secret Hills Walking Holiday - just join us, relax and let us take the strain.

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Our entire portfolio of holidays is searchable from the top of each page within our website. Use the ‘Plan Your Holiday’ function where you can select dates, grades of walking, desired location and type of walking available.

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Secret Hills Walking Holidays Designed by Walkers for Walkers

Destination

Cotswolds

Derbyshire - Castleton

Derbyshire Dales

East Devon and Dorset

Hebden Bridge

Southern Lake District

Northern Lake District

Llangollen/Dee Valley

Malvern Hills

Shropshire Hills

South Downs

Wye Valley

La Gomera

Isle of Purbeck

Austria

Dolomites

Gran Canaria

Lanzarote

Madeira

Majorca

Portugal - Algarve

Tenerife

Slovenia

Nepal

Isle of Wight

Offa’s Country

La Palma

Croatia

Yorkshire Dales and Malham

Gower Peninsula

Choosing Your Holiday Choosing the right holiday is extremely important because we want you to have a positive experience. We do offer a huge variety of holidays in both the UK and in Europe to suit each individuals' level of challenge, ability, experience, time available and budget.

WalkingHolidays

StrollingHolidays

ShortBreaks

For SoloTravellers

To further help you choose the right holiday, and answer all your questions, we encourage you to either:

Call us on 01694 723600 or use our Website Enquiry Form

What You Get On a Secret Hills Guided Walking Holidays • Culture and history

• Hotel bed and breakfast – en suite • Sole occupancy where needed • Three course dinner • Lunch • Personal service • Expert guiding • Transport to walk’s start if necessary • Flexibility • No single supplement - UK ONLY • Complimentary wine on first evening of UK holidays • Joining details prior to the holiday • Administration support from reservation

to the date of your holiday



Short breaks for single travellers - it's in the title. We specialise in organising a variety of different short, guided walking holiday breaks in the UK and Europe where you can travel solo and meet new friends in a safe, lively, relaxed and stress-free way.

We have been running Social Walking for Singles holidays all over the UK and Europe since 2003.

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Short Guided Walking Breaks for Solo Travellers in the UK and Europe 2020 Date Nights Days Destination Price Single Sup. Hotel Location 25 January 7 8 Tenerife £1195.00 £16.00 per night Hotel Valle Mar Puerto do Cruz

02 February 7 8 La Gomera £1476.00 £28.00 per night Hotel Gran Rey Valle Gran Rey

21 February 2 2.5 Cotswolds £435.00 N/A Stratton House Hotel Cirencester

28 February 7 8 Lanzarote £1300.00 £26.00 per night Hotel San Antonio Puerto Del Carmen

07 March 7 8 Gran Canaria £1250.00 £22.00 per night Las Tiranos San Bartolome

19 March 7 8 La Palma £1220.00 £28.00 per night Las Olas La Palma

20 March 2 2.5 Shropshire Hills £395.00 N/A Longmynd House Church Stretton

07 April 3 3.5 Northen Lakes and Borrowdale £525.00 N/A Glaramara Keswick

10 April 3 3.5 Southern Lakes- Easter £565.00 N/A Skelwith Bridge Hotel Ambleside

10 April 3 3.5 Shropshire Hills - Easter £535.00 N/A Longmynd House Church Stretton

15 April 4 4.5 Hebden Bridge - West Yorkshire £465.00* N/A Imperial Hotel Halifax

17 April 2 2.5 South Downs - Seven Sisters £435.00 N/A Langham Hotel Eastbourne

17 April 7 8 Majorca £1275.00 £31.00 per night Hotel Marina Port Soller

07 May 3 3.5 Cotswolds £555.00 N/A Stratton House Hotel Cirencester

07 May 3 3.5 Brecon Beacons £625.00 N/A Brecon Castle Hotel Brecon

07 May 3 3.5 Ullswater Way £545.00 N/A Hydro Hotel Bowness

10 May 5 4.5 The Best of the Cumbria Way £825.00 N/A Skelwith Bridge Hotel Ambleside

15 May 2 2.5 Isle of Purbeck - Dorset £465.00 N/A Springfield Hotel Wareham

15 May 7 8 Slovenia £1155.00 £18.00 per night Hotel Tripic Bohinj Bistrica

15 May 2 2.5 Dovedale - Peak District £435.00 N/A Newton House Dovedale

22 May 3 3.5 Shropshire Hills and Ironbridge £535.00 N/A Buckatree Hall Hotel Ironbridge

25 May 4 4.5 Yorkshire Dales and Malhamdale £755.00 N/A High Trenhouse Malham

01 June 7 8 Madeira £1050.00 £18.00 per night Orquidea Hotel Funchal

05 June 2 2.5 Cotswolds £435.00 N/A Stratton House Hotel Cirencester

11 June 2 2.5 Malvern Hills £455.00 N/A Abbey Hotel Great Malvern

18 June 2 2.5 Llangollen and Dee Valley £435.00 N/A Hand Hotel Llangollen

19 June 2 2.5 Southern Lake District £455.00 N/A Skelwith Bridge Hotel Ambleside

21 June 4 3.5 Dorset and East Devon £565.00 N/A Sidholme Hotel Sidmouth

24 June 7 8 Dolomites £1270.00 N/A Al Picola Val di Fassa

26 June 2 2.5 Dovedale - Peak District £435.00 N/A Newton House Dovedale

26 June 7 8 Slovenia £1155.00 £18.00 per night Hotel Tripic Bohinj Bistrica

03 July 7 8 Slovenia £1155.00 £18.00 per night Hotel Tripic Bohinj Bistrica

05 July 7 8 Austria £1275.00 N/A Post Hotel Schladming

We are a dedicated team of professional tour leaders who work hard at giving you a superb short break - and creating a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where you can meet new friends.

We do not charge single supplements in the UK. You have sole use of a hotel room with en suite facilities. In Europe we have to charge single supplements but you have a twin room for sole occupancy.

ShortBreaks

For SoloTravellers

Guided Walking Breaks for Solo Travellers in the UK & Europe

Flexible, Friendly and Safe


www.secrethillswalking.co.uk . www.shortbreaksforsingles.co.uk5

Date Nights Days Destination Price Single Sup. Hotel Location

10 July 2 2.5 Dovedale - Peak District £435.00 N/A Newton House Dovedale

10 July 2 2.5 Shropshire Hills and Ironbridge £435.00 N/A Buckatree Hall Hotel Ironbridge

19 July 4 4.5 Northen Lakes and Borrowdale £625.00 N/A Glaramara Keswick

27 July 4 4.5 South Downs £675.00 N/A The View Hotel Eastbourne

03 August 4 4.5 Gower £650.00* N/A Kings Head Hotel Llangennith

07 August 2 2.5 Cotsworlds Beauty £435.00 N/A Stratton House Hotel Cirencester

16 August 4 4.5 Hebden Bridge - West Yorkshire £465.00* N/A Imperial Hotel Halifax

21 August 3 3.5 Brecon Beacons £625.00 N/A Brecon Castle Hotel Brecon

28 August 3 3.5 Shropshire Hills £495.00 N/A Longmynd House Church Stretton

28 August 3 3.5 Southern Lakes £565.00 N/A Skelwith Bridge Hotel Ambleside

28 August 4 4.5 Yorkshire Dales and Malhamdale £755.00 N/A High Trenhouse Malham

06 September 7 8 Slovenia £1155.00 £18.00 per night Hotel Tripic Bohinj Bistrica

06 September 5 4.5 The Best of the Cumbria Way £825.00 N/A Skelwith Bridge Hotel Ambleside

11 September 2 2.5 Malvern Hills £455.00 N/A Abbey Hotel Great Malvern

11 September 3 3.5 Ullswater Way £545.00 N/A Hydro Hotel Bowness

18 September 2 2.5 South Downs - Seven Sisters £435.00 N/A Langham Hotel Eastbourne

18 September 2 2.5 Llangollen and Dee Valley £435.00 N/A Hand Hotel Llangollen

25 September 2 2.5 Southern Lake District £455.00 N/A Skelwith Bridge Hotel Ambleside

25 September 2 2.5 Cotswolds Beauty £435.00 N/A Stratton House Hotel Cirencester

02 October 2 2.5 Isle of Purbeck - Dorset £465.00 N/A Springfield Hotel Wareham

02 October 2 2.5 Shropshire Hills and Ironbridge £435.00 N/A Buckatree Hall Hotel Ironbridge

09 October 7 8 Majorca £1275.00 £31.00 per night Hotel Marina Port Soller

09 October 2 2.5 Dovedale - Peak District £435.00 N/A Newton House Dovedale

10 October 7 8 Croatia £1210.00 £29.00 per night Villa Adriatica Supertar Brac

16 October 2 2.5 South Downs - Seven Sisters £435.00 N/A Langham Hotel Eastbourne

17 October 7 8 Tenerife £1195.00 £18.00 per night Hotel Valle Mar Puerto do Cruz

25 October 4 4.5 Northen lakes and Borrowdale £625.00 N/A Glaramara Keswick

02 November 7 8 Madeira £1050.00 £18.00 per night Orquidea Hotel Funchal

*Excluding dinner

It's all about meeting new friends. Each holiday is designed to be a friendly, relaxed and stress-free occasion. Talking is as important as walking or discovering on Short Breaks for Single Travellers holidays. We don't go in for discos; we may use an event that is taking place in the area we are in to boost the weekend's activities - but it's good, old-fashioned chat that makes our short breaks successful. ‘Make new friends that turn into old friends’ - that's our motto. You might be surprised by what fun you’ll have with people who are older or younger than you during a holiday with us, and that’s exactly the sort of atmosphere we encourage; people find it very rewarding. It doesn’t matter what your reasons for travelling with us are, we’ve had people who are single, divorced or widowed, people who have partners that are unable to travel, and people who can’t holiday with their friends anymore as they’ve all got married themselves. There are people who want to make friends, see sights, and experience something completely new. Whatever your reason, we’ll welcome you with open arms and our friendly hosts will help you to get the most out of your holiday. Don't worry if this is the first time you have ventured to join a group holiday - it's always a bit daunting - but we will look after you, ensure that you get used to being amongst friends again - trust us to get you back into the swing of things. Oh, by the way - it's not a dating agency! Over the years we have had people meet and fall in love, but that's just chance. Our aim is that you make like-minded friends - just relax and enjoy. You matter to us and we promise to provide you with a superb walking and social holiday, tailored specifically to your needs. We provide walking holidays for walkers and as walkers ourselves, we appreciate and understand your requirements.

‘We meet as strangers and part as friends.’

Our short breaks feature guided ‘Get Active’ walking or strolling as the basis of the break. This is a perfect way to spend time outdoors with other single people, socialising in a relaxed environment. Good hotels, good food - all part of our programme.

So if you need a short break away in good company or feel it's time to do something that's for you, and you don't want to travel with your partner, then we have the holidays for you.

Most of the short walking breaks are weekend events; some are week-long and based in superb countries. We have ‘Get Active’ walking breaks and the more gentle ‘Strolling and Discovery’ breaks, some with specific themes.



Walking Holidays in the UK

and More Memorable

Holidays

We have designed guided walking holidays for you in areas of Britain that we love - where we feel there is a magic, a romance, a true sense of getting away from everyday life. In each walking area, and some of them are a bit off the beaten track, we combine excellent walking and guiding, with superb hotels and food, making up a relaxing, yet stimulating walking experience. All our walking holidays are graded as moderate, though there will be short, sharp steep sections on each holiday.

Simply put, we will work with you to give you exactly the walking holiday you want - and we hope along the way, we will become friends.

Walking Holidays in the UK 2020

Date Nights Days Destination Price Single Sup. Hotel Location

07 April 3 3.5 Northern Lakes and Borrowdale £525.00 N/A Glaramara Keswick

15 April 3 3.5 Hebden Bridge - West Yorkshire £465.00* N/A Imperial Hotel Halifax

08 May 3 3.5 Brecon Beacons £625.00 N/A Brecon Castle Hotel Brecon

08 May 3 3.5 Ullswater Way £545.00 N/A Hydro Hotel Bowness

10 May 4 4.5 The Best of the Cumbria Way £825.00 N/A Skelwith Bridge Hotel Ambleside

25 May 4 4.5 Yorkshire Dales and Malhamdale £755.00 N/A High Trenhouse Malham

08 June 5 5.5 Across Lakeland £835.00 N/A Hydro Hotel Bowness

21 June 4 3.5 Dorset and East Devon £565.00 N/A Sidholme Hotel Sidmouth

26 June 4 4.5 Derbyshire Dales Explorer £675.00 N/A Newton House Hotel Ashbourne

19 July 4 4.5 Northen lakes and Borrowdale £625.00 N/A Glaramara Keswick

27 July 4 4.5 South Downs £675.00 N/A The View Hotel Eastbourne

03 August 4 4.5 Gower £650.00 N/A Kings Head Hotel Llangennith

16 August 3 3.5 Hebden Bridge - West Yorkshire £465.00* N/A Imperial Hotel Halifax

21 August 3 3.5 Brecon Beacons £625.00 N/A Brecon Castle Hotel Brecon

28 August 4 4.5 Yorkshire Dales and Malhamdale £755.00 N/A High Trenhouse Malham

06 September 4 4.5 The Best of the Cumbria Way £825.00 N/A Skelwith Bridge Hotel Ambleside

11 September 3 3.5 Ullswater Way £545.00 N/A Hydro Hotel Bowness

21 September 4 4.5 Offa’s 60 £650.00 N/A Dragon Montgomery

25 October 4 4.5 Northen Lakes and Borrowdale £625.00 N/A Glaramara Keswick

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We will continue to develop new areas each year, following our theme of great locations, superb back up to walkers needs, and a full flexibilty promise.

On all our holidays, we also create a good social walking atmosphere - we hope you get on with us and each other, for it makes for a better and more memorable holiday.



Strolling & Exploring

Holidays

Secret Hills Walking Strolling and Exploring escorted holidays are designed for those who are still active and who want a holiday that combines a short country walk with some sightseeing and local culture. You will still want to explore, learn and enjoy the wonderful heritage and culture of the places we visit. Strolling is mainly without much climbing or descending, not always completely flat, but no real strenuous sections - about 3.5/4 miles throughout the day. We travel to view some historical place - or beautiful gardens - dependent on the theme of the holiday. We believe also that your Strolling holiday should be supported by excellent hotels and lovely food - nothing like a good deal of comfort after an exciting day’s activities.

Single Supplements in Europe We try to minimise single supplements, but it is not possible to remove them altogether. Unless we state otherwise, a single supplement is levied for the SOLE USE OF A TWIN ROOM.

In some European destinations, Secret Hills Walking Holidays offer a strolling/ambling option, combined with exploring the country you are visiting.

Why Go Strolling and Exploring?

• Culture and history

• Strolling in magnificent scenery

• Meet new friends and have a good social holiday

• Personal attention at all times

• Superb hotels/food

• Escorted all the way

We stay in good hotels, all rooms with their own facilities, and generally half board. In Britain we operate a no single supplement policy and our pricing includes evening dinners and lunches, all the transport we use on each holiday, all our personalized guiding services. In Europe, there will be a single supplement, and you pay for your lunches, but the overall price quoted DOES include flights and transfers, except for Portugal and Ireland.

All are superb, with the Secret Hills philosophy of personal attention, small groups, lovely hotels and good food at its heart.

Let us take the strain - just relax, enjoy good company and being looked after well.

Strolling & Exploring Holidays 2020 Date Nights Days Destination Price Single Sup. Hotel Location

01 June 7 8 Madeira £1050.00 £18.00 per night Orquidea Hotel Funchal

26 June 7 8 Slovenia Discovery & Strolling Tour £1260.00 £18.00 per night Hotel Tripic Bohinj Bistrica

03 July 7 8 Slovenia Discovery & Strolling Tour £1260.00 £18.00 per night Hotel Tripic Bohinj Bistrica


To book your holiday, simply visit our website and follow the links

StrollingHolidays

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Europe Guided Walking

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Guided Walking Holidays designed by walkers for walkers. Secret Hills Walking arrange guided walking holidays in various locations in Europe. We are constantly adding new venues. All aspects of your holiday are arranged by us, and in most cases, include flights. The exceptions to this are Algarve, Ireland and Nepal, where you buy your own flights. We offer a range of options on each holiday, and choice is our watchword.

With Secret Hills Walking, you receive our individual attention when you are thinking of a Europe walking holiday with us. You have a choice of the following when you are arranging your holiday.

• Choice of UK airports to the holiday destination

• Choice of flight time - where applicable, for those destinations where we organise your flights.

• Choice of type of room - at additional supplement, where applicable

• Choice of walks each day - based upon grades

In addition, we organise our walks using local guides, or British guides living in the location where we walk. Secret Hills Walking principals will support the local guides by organising all aspects of your holiday before and when you arrive at your holiday destination, acting as your tour guides. We want you to gain maximum benefit from your walking holiday, so the above individual attention is important to us, as we hope it is to you.

We price our holidays 18 months before you actually go on it, and we therefore make some pricing assumptions. Generally we get this issue correct, but there are cost issues that are very much out of our control, such as flight supplements and currency movements. Before you reserve a holiday with us, we will discuss any additional cost issues with you, and quote you for the package you have chosen. Once you are satisfied with our final quote, and once you have paid the initial deposit, we will adhere to our quoted price.

Single Supplements in Europe We try to minimise single supplements, but it is not possible to remove them altogether. Unless we state otherwise, a single supplement is levied for the SOLE USE OF A TWIN ROOM.

Our Partners in Europe Walking Secret Hills Walking are pleased to be associated with New Experience Holidays, who organise flights, accommodation and transfers for these holidays and provide you with ATOL security.

All your joining instructions and individual flight arrangements will be made by Paul and Deborah Sawyer. Once you have committed to a holiday, and have accepted the individual quote we send, we will forward a New Experience reservation form, and you should pay all deposits and final payments to New Experience Holidays.

Secret Hills Walking is responsible for marketing and selling the holidays and for arranging your itinerary when you arrive at the airport in the country you are visiting. You will receive individual attention throughout your holiday from us.

How to Reserve a Holiday for a European destination To reserve a place on any of the above holidays, please follow these simple guidelines.

Once you have chosen your European holiday, email us with the details of the holiday you want to reserve - and the nearest airport to you.

DO NOT BOOK ON LINE AT THIS POINT Read on and follow the instructions

The Quotation Process - ATOL Bonding Requirement Secret Hills Walking works with New Experience Holidays who arrange your ATOL protection, and your flights.

Requesting a quotation - once we have all your details and the airport you prefer and alternatives - we will request a full quotation for you.

This will contain • the basic price • any flight supplement from the airport of your choice • single supplement if this applies • a choice of flights • any specific requirement such as additional nights, sea view rooms etc. • final price and payment information

The Quotation Stage - who sends you a quotation In order to conform to ATOL bonding protection rules, New Experience Holidays will send you your full quotation normally by email - please ask if you want to receive the quotation by post. This contains the details of the holiday,

Your contacts at New Experience Holidays are Matthew Newcombe, Anna Brown and Paul Sawyer.

What We Need to Know Prior to the Quotation Stage We need to know your preferred departure airport. We can guide you about the right airport and options - simply read the web pages for the country you are wanting to visit.

Accepting the Quotation and Booking the Holiday Once you have accepted the quotation, fill in a New Experience booking form (this can be done online) or send in the completed form, and pay both the deposit – normally £125 - plus any additional flight supplements to New Experience Holidays. Final payment is also made to New Experience Holidays.

Once You Have Booked You will not be sent a reminder of when to pay the full amount, so please diarise this.

About three weeks prior to departure, New Experience Holidays will send you holiday joining details, including your flight details with instruction to print off your boarding cards.



Fantastic Island Walking Holidays 2020 – Priced with flights unless shown Date Nights Days Destination Price Single Sup. Hotel Location

25 January 7 8 Tenerife £1195.00 £16.00 per night Hotel Valle Mar Puerto do Cruz

02 February 7 8 La Gomera £1476.00 £28.00 per night Hotel Gran Rey Hotel Gran Rey

28 February 7 8 Lanzarote £1300.00 £20.00 per night Hotel San Antonio Puerto del Carmen

07 March 7 8 Gran Canaria £1250.00 £22.00 per night Las Tiranos San Bartolome

19 March 7 8 La Palma £1220.00 £28.00 per night Las Olas La Palma

17 April 7 8 Majorca £1275.00 £31.00 per night Hotel Marina Port Soller

02 October 7 8 Majorca - Sant Elm £1175.00 N/A TBA Sant Elm

17 October 7 8 Tenerife £1195.00 £18.00 per night Hotel Valle Mar Puerto do Cruz


We stay in Port Soller in a hotel right on the beach edge, with excellent rooms and a short walk from the town centre. We eat in the hotel’s dining room - a wide choice of international food for your delight.

Madeira Madeira is an island of fascinating natural beauty and enticing climate. An island of volcanic origin, a superb island for walking. A network of levadas, built to carry water from the north to irrigate the cultivated areas of the south contour along the mountain sides, their banks planted with wild hydrangeas, lilies and agapanthus. Its mountains are rugged and inspiring We walk these levadas, along the magnificent coast, with dramatic cliff top walks, and in the high mountains in the centre of the island...

Gran Canaria Gran Canaria is a beautiful natural environment with a dramatic variation of terrain, ranging from the green and leafy north to the mountainous interior and desert south. In the centre, there are magnificent volcanic mountains.

Only by walking can you discover the true delights of the island and its people. Gran Canaria enjoys all year round warmth and sunshine with very little seasonal variation.

Tenerife Some describe Tenerife as having ‘many worlds in one place’, which is partly due to the ‘micro-climatic’ environment. While the Island is lucky enough to endure year round sun and warmth, the weather can change quite dramatically from region to region. The north where we walk, mainly endures the occasional rainfall but stays warm, keeping it green and luscious.. The craters of Las Canadas offer walkers a lunar experience at over 2,000 metres above sea level and Mount Teide is a huge, rugged, steep sided volcanic peak.. Walking on its flanks is an incredible experience.

La Palma - A Little Paradise Full Of Great Experiences La Palma is the hikers’ paradise. The Island network of paths, now runs to almost 1,000 kilometres, all fully indicated with coloured way markers, signposts and information panels.

The extraordinary natural beauties of La Palma make it an island full of surprises. The astonishing landscapes and indigenous flora and fauna species inspire visitors. And it’s well cared for environment makes a perfect backdrop to enjoy outdoor activities, in contact with nature.

La Gomera Join us in this wonderful island of contrasting landscapes- with the Garonjay forest in its centre - and the magnificent deep valleys that radiate out from the centre down to the crystal clear sea. This guided walking holiday explores the diverse landscape thoroughly. The sea is always in view - sparkling in the sunshine. La Gomera has walking that compliments the other winter sun holidays in our portfolio- but it is different.

Lanzarote This island has some of the most incredible landscapes you may find on this planet, opulent vegetation next to bizarre forms of petrified lava fields .The island is often referred to as the 'island of the 1,000 volcanoes' yet it is actually the least mountainous Canarian Island however offers unbelievable walking opportunities with great diversity. Unforgettable, excellent walking. And in the sun.

Have you ever looked at those grey winter clouds that hang heavily over us in January, February and March? Then why not escape from the chilly, wet British winter and spend precious time away gazing at brilliant blue skies and basking in warm sun whilst undertaking great walks. We have so many wonderfully warm destinations offering you fabulous walking to keep your winter blues at bay; Give Jack Frost the brush off and treat yourself to an extra dose of vitamin D, it’s certainly good for the soul in so many ways. Each holiday island has a different feel – and landscape, from the lush green of Tenerife and La Gomera and the fabulous flowers on magical Madeira to the volcanic splendour of La Palma and Lanzarote. We run these holidays from October to April- just when the dark days of winter depress the soul. Join us and be refreshed. Moderate walking – excellent hotels and food to support a relaxing week. Give yourself a treat.

Majorca Majorca’s Serra de Tramuntana mountains are a great walking experience - on this holiday island renowned for it’s sun, sand and sangria, there is an area of peace and tranquillity, where the walking is superb. 90 km long and 15 km wide, the Tramuntana gives a vast range of walking possibilities. The coast line is also very rugged, and this affords us tremendous sea views as well as mountain scenery. The limestone allows deep gorges and waterfalls, yet there are pine forests and olive groves as well.

Fantastic Winter Sun

Holidays Give Yourself a

Winter Treat



Awesome Alpine

Walking

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Awesome Alpine Walking Holidays 2020 – Priced with flights Date Nights Days Destination Price Single Sup. Hotel Location

15 May 7 8 Slovenia £1155.00 £18.00 per night Hotel Tripic Bohinj Bistrica

24 June 7 8 Dolomites £1270.00 £18.00 per night Hotel Al Piccolo Val di Fassa

26 June 7 8 Slovenia £1155.00 £18.00 per night Hotel Tripic Bohinj Bistrica

03 July 7 8 Slovenia £1155.00 £18.00 per night Hotel Tripic Bohinj Bistrica

05 July 7 8 Austria £1275.00 £18.00 per night Post Hotel Schladming

6 September 7 8 Slovenia £1155.00 £18.00 per night Hotel Tripic Bohinj Bistrica

Our selection of alpine walking areas will give the most discerning walker a superb holiday. High mountains indeed, but with the network of ski lifts and roads that climb to the highest areas of the mountains, we can reach the high places without the stress of a long trek. Then we can walk at a lofty height, taking in the tops of the peaks and gaining fantastic views over simply awesome mountain countryside.

Simply stunning alpine mountain scenery - three super countries

WalkingHolidays

ShortBreaks

For SoloTravellers

To book your holiday follow the instructions on page 8



Slovenia Slovenia has marvellous alpine hill walking, through limestone country, with stunning vistas of high snowy peaks, lakes and river valleys. Slovenia lies south of Austria and Italy and our walking in the Julian Alps is in the north of the country.

We base ourselves near Lake Bohinj, the largest of the Slovenian lakes. There are picturesque villages, with farming at the heart of the economy. There are alpine meadows to amble through, and fast flowing rivers, with a number of deep gorges - familiar to limestone alpine scenery.

Our walks take us over stunning ridges, and down beautiful valleys, and there is a variety of scenery for the discerning walker. Normally six hours walking, five walks in the week’s holiday. We grade the walks as moderate with some short strenuous stretches. An easier shorter option is available most days.

The spectacular mountains in the Julian Alps are predominantly limestone, and their jagged form produce stunning vistas wherever you look.

The country has a proud reputation for cleanliness, and self sufficiency - you will find many small allotments for vegetable and fruit growing in most gardens. The Slovenes are a welcoming people, friendly and outgoing. They want you to explore their superb countryside. Walking is a national hobby - why wouldn’t it be when there is so much grand scenery to explore. Their other national pastime is eating - and they have excellent Slovenian wine.

Our second Slovenian location is at Kobarid, deep in the heart of the Soca Valley, the Soca is an emerald river that will delight you. Our walking takes place in Bovec and the Lakes of Tolmin as we explore the southern part of the Julian Alpine region. See www.secrethillswalking.co.uk for more detailed information.

Austria Austria has been a popular walking destination for over a hundred years, The country has an excellent infrastructure centred on hiking making easy access to the walks. Paths are well marked and maintained, maps accurate and detailed. The walking is quite superb with a great variation of types. You have the opportunity to walk down small valleys alongside fast flowing rivers, through gorges with a high suspension bridge to traverse, gentle alpine walking between villages, or ‘classic’ high alpine walks. You can take the cable car to Dachstein at 2700m or to most of the peaks that we walk. Local authorities are making a determined effort to attract more walkers and the result is a network of well-signed paths of all levels of difficulty. Secret Hills Walking arrange five walks with one free day. Lunches are taken at local mountain huts or cafes generally. Your base is Schladming in the Enns valley, the Enns is a lively river which flows east to join the Danube. The Enns valley is dominated to the north by the stark limestone mountains, of which Dachstein (the ‘Roof Stone’) is the largest. To the south are the peaks of the Schladminger Tauern.

We use cable cars and local minibus transport to get to and from our walk routes.

Dolomites The Dolomites are situated across the north of Italy bordering onto Austria. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers some of the most spectacular mountain walking in the world. Predominantly limestone, their jagged forms produce stunning vistas of steep spires and improbable pinnacles.

We offer fantastic walking in breathtaking limestone scenery. We stay in an excellent family run 3 star hotel in Val di Fassa.

Discover fascinating local history and culture as you walk with our friendly Secret Hills guides with superb local knowledge.

For some guests, the day's highlight is the lunchtime stop in a beautifully located mountain Refugio where we'll enjoy local traditional cuisine.

Join us for a week of mountain walking in this unique landscape of exceptional beauty. We'll offer a full-day walk each day, taking-in high mountain meadows, spectacular ridges and always exhilarating views - there are photo opportunities at every turn along the path!

Our outstanding range of 'classic routes' will delight all keen walkers wishing to discover the rugged wild beauty of these mountains: typically days of 5 to 7 hour walks at altitudes of between 2000m - 2500m.

Dolomites July 2016 - ‘Mike & Anita had organised superb and varied walks, nothing on the walks or in the hotel was too much trouble.’ Pat Beaumont



Croatia and Portugal’s

Algarve

Portugal & Algarve Walking Holidays 2019 Date Nights Days Destination Price Single Sup. Hotel Location

17 April 7 8 Western Algarve £1050.00 £20.00 per night Hotel Marina Rio Lagos

10 October 7 8 Croatia - Brac Island £1210.00 £29.00 per night Hotel Villa Adriatic Supertar

Croatia – sparkling seas always in view- The Island of Brac.

Walking in the sun, by the sparkling blue Adriatic as well as the lovely interior of the island of Brac- simply stunning, We call the holiday dazzling because at every turn the sea sparkles and the land- white limestone mainly-dazzles the eyes.

The routes are mostly along tracks or rural roads; sometimes on paths (some can be rocky due to characteristic limestone. Our routes take you to some of the best viewpoints on the islands, offers plenty of swimming opportunities and the chance to experience the beautiful, rustic nature of trac

The island landscape is dominated by a karst limestone relief, with numerous gullies, crevices, cavities, round valleys and coves.

We invite you to explore this unique island that offers everything one needs for an unforgettable holiday in an unspoiled natural environment. Good walking, good food, excellent hotel

WalkingHolidays

ShortBreaks

For SoloTravellers

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The Algarve - when Britain begins to shiver, the Algarve is still bathed in warm sunshine. Ideal in October/November and March for walking, warm yet not too hot to enjoy striding out along the coast or in the St Vincent National Park or the Monchique mountains.

We have chosen this time of year - in late October or early November - to get a little sun in before winter’s chill, and April - as we emerge from the cocoon of winter, the Algarve is a riot of spring flowers and the sunshine just bathes you and seduces you to relax.

Super hotels, relaxed walking, good company and food. Join our walking break and be invigorated.

The Algarve is kissed by the Gulf stream, keeping it warm all year round. The walking is excellent - besides the spectacular and dramatic coastline, the interior is varied, with a number of landscapes. The local flora varies from area to area - from the Monchique mountains to the rolling foothills and dramatic limestone escarpments. We base ourselves in the western part of the Algarve - some of the walks really are secret. All the more interesting for that.



New Holidays for 2020

We strive to introduce new holidays each year. This year we have two holidays in the UK and two new holidays in Europe.

Yorkshire Dales and Malhamdale

The Dales are famous for their wonderful scenery. Deep valleys, with roads meandering between drystone walls and a patchwork of hay meadows and field barns. Up above is heather moorland and distinctive hills, such as the much loved Three Peaks. The Yorkshire Dales, an outstanding place to explore for many years - Malham is a small village, in the Pennines, at the southern base of the Yorkshire Dales. It's a pretty place, surrounded by limestone dry-stone walls, & with the River Aire running right through the middle of the village.

Malham Cove is a huge curving shaped cliff formation of limestone rock, with its vertical cliff face of 260 feet, and nearby, Gordale Scar is a spectacular gorge, complete with waterfalls, cut right into the limestone hillside. The gorge was produced by water from melting glaciers sometime over the last three million years.

Our base is High Trenhouse near Malham Cove – famed for hosting groups over 20 years.

Dates

25/05/20 – 4 nights

28/08/20 - 4 nights – August Bank Holiday

The Gower Peninsula

Gower was the first place in Britain to be named an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With cliffs and woodlands ringed by sparkling beaches, the Gower peninsula is so adored by walkers, birdwatchers, sunbathers and surfers, it’s been scooping awards ever since. Although Gower is deservedly known for its beaches, there’s plenty to do inland.

For a relatively compact area, there’s a huge variety of landscapes on Gower. The Wales Coast Path runs around the coastline, taking in the dramatic cliffs and coves of the south, and the quieter saltmarshes of the north. The Gower Way cuts for 35 miles (56km) right through the middle.

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Rhossili regularly makes lists of the world’s best beaches, for very good reason: its three-mile (4.8km) golden sands feature towering cliffs and Worm’s Head at one end, dunes at the other, and a genuine shipwreck in between. For sheer natural beauty, Three Cliffs Bay is just as good.

Fantastic walking – with the sparling sea always just in view.

Date – August 3 - 4 nights Kings Head Hotel at Llangennith

Offa’s Country 60

New to 2020 – we have split the magnificent border fortification into three sections – the North – embracing the start at Prestayn, the Clwdian range of Hills and the Severn Valley. We will be introducing this in 2021.

The middle section – Montgomery, The Shropshire Hills, Knighton and Kington – based in one centre at Montgomery, is our offer in 2020.

The southern section- The Wye Valley, Black Mountains , Usk Valley and Chepstow- again introducing this in 2021.

Each section is approx 60 miles and four and half days walking – the countryside is memorable, but some challenging ascents and descents. The borderlands between England and Wales – much of it remote, much high ground with deep valleys. More sheep than humans..

2020 – Offa’s Country 60 – Severn Valley, Shropshire Hills. Knghton and Kington

We stay at The Dragon Hotel in the old county town of Montgomery- a lovely location. Transport daily to walks start. Offa’s Dyke national trail forms the basis of our holiday but we do wander off it to take in the surrounding landscape.

A guided walking experience not to be missed.

Date 21/09/20 No single supplement £650

New European Holidays 2020 Majorca - new venue - South West corner of the island Complimenting our Port Soller holidays, lovely walking with the sparkling sea an ever present.– we stay in Paguera by the coast. Part of the GR221 national trail forms part of our walking portfolio.

With the foothills of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains behind it and the uninhabited island of Sa Dragonera in front, you couldn’t ask for a more beautiful spot.

Sant Elm is a fantastic base for walkers. There are super walks all around and we explore this new destination for us with relish.

Date 02/10/20

Lanzarote

This island which has been destroyed so many times by its volcanos elemental forces and were reborn again , shows some of the most incredible landscapes you may find on this planet, opulent vegetation next to bizarre forms of petrified lava fields .The island is often referred to as the 'island of the 1,000 volcanoes' yet it is actually the least mountainous Canarian Island however offers unbelievable walking opportunities with great diversity.

Look at a map of Lanzerote and parts of it look unfit for human habitation, yet the island is ideal, and unforgettable for excellent walking. And in the sun.

It is certainly a different walking experience to the other Canary Islands- but complimentary to them.

You will have a super holiday.

Date 28/02/20



Guided Walking Holidays for Groups

• Shropshire - beautiful, unspoiled and secret hill country, with views around 360 degrees unrivalled in Britain. We run group holidays from Church Stretton, Shrewsbury and Ironbridge.

• Llangollen and the Dee Valley - unexplored and lovely high moor and valley walking country.

• Southern Lake District • Northern Lake District • Derbyshire Dales - superb upland, limestone hill country

with great river valleys like the Dove and Lathkill. These holidays are run from the village of Hartington.

• Brecons and Black Mountains - unspoilt and walker friendly. We run holidays from Crickhowell.

• Historical Ironbridge Gorge • Radnorshire Hills and Elan Valley - from Llandrindod Wells. • Exmoor - from the historic village of Dunster. • Dorset and East Devon - from Sidmouth. • Mendips - from Axebridge. • Malvern Hills • Norfolk • Bowland and Ribble Valley • The Wye Valley and Forest of Dean • Cornwall from St Ives • South Downs - from Eastbourne. • Cotswolds - from Cirencester. • Hebden Bridge and West Yorkshire • Gower Peninsula • North Yorkshire Moors • Yorkshire Dales and Malhamdale • Madeira - an island of flowers and great walking amongst

volcanic mountains, and along superb water courses - levadas. • Slovenia - lovely limestone country, fabulous views. • Gozo - glorious coastline, magnificent history. • Austria - from Schadlming. • Majorca - a popular favourite; great walking far away

from the sangria crowd. • La Gomera - beautiful walking on this special island. • Slovakia's Tatra Mountains • Portugal's Algarve • The Dolomites • Gran Canaria • Tenerife • Austria • Lanzarote We conduct group walking holidays for over 20 groups a year - from Ramblers groups to informal groups of friends who just enjoy walking together.

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Yes, let us take the strain. Secret Hills Walking Holidays specialises in arranging guided group walking holidays - working with you to give you the best holiday at the most effective cost.

Our philosophy is simple - we are in business to arrange walking holidays. We are expert in arranging hotels, meals, transport and especially walk leading in the areas we promote. The additional cost to you of our providing that service is minimal, when you work it out across the group.

Discuss with us what you want, where you want to walk, and we will propose a package to you - using the buying power we have - to give you a cost effective but superb holiday.

In addition to walking, Secret Hills have a range of evening activities that can be purchased, such as quizzes, musical evenings, talks by local history experts, etc.

Secret Hills Walking Holidays have listed a number of walking groups we have arranged holidays for during the past five years. They will happily testify to how we have provided a complete service to them. Just ask for their contacts.

Secret Hills Walking Holidays arrange group holidays in many areas of Britain, and also many European destinations (Madeira, Slovenia, Majorca, Gozo, Gran Canaria, La Gomera, The Algarve, Slovakia, The Dolomites, Ireland).



FEST IVE SPECIALS Christmas & New Year

Celebration Walking Holiday The Christmas and New Year Holiday period

normally brings either happiness or sadness, folk either love it, or hate it (or both). At Secret Hills we recognise this and our three ‘festive walking holidays’ are intended for you to undertake great walks then indulge in wonderful meals in cosy hotels with good social company.

December can be a beautiful time to walk the hills and fells within the UK.

Go to www.secrethillswalking.co.uk for up to date details of Christmas and New Year holidays.

Festive Special Holidays in the UK 2020

Date Nights Days Destination Price Hotel Location

27 December 3 3.5 Beat the Xmas Pud £475.00 Buckatree Hall Hotel Ironbridge

30 December 3 3 Walk into the New Year £725.00 Stratton House Hotel Cirencester

30 December 3 3 Walk into the New Year £745.00 Hydro Hotel Bowness


Come and celebrate the festive Season with your friends at Secret Hills Walking Holidays


www.secrethillswalking.co.uk www.shortbreaksforsingles.co.uk

Secret Hills Walking Holidays Acorn House, 35 Sandford Avenue, Church Stretton, Shropshire SY6 6BH

Main Phone: 01694 723600 Email: [email protected]

Thank you for choosing

Secret Hills Walking Holidays

“Another very enjoyable holiday. The hotel accommodation and food was excellent. The location was ideal and made for easy access to the walks. Both Jill and Paul were excellent leaders and very knowledgeable of the area. The choice of walks were varied and enjoyable. The holiday was organised very well. I will book another holiday and recommend to others.” Carol Kenny - Northern Lakes - August 2019

“Alan, Many thanks to you and your team for giving us all a great holiday in beautiful Slovenia. Hope to see you again in the future on another holiday. On behalf of the Ramblers South Dorset Group, “ John, South Dorset Ramblers - Slovenia - June 2019

‘Jill and Paul were excellent and very knowledgeable. It was lovely not having to think about anything other than enjoying the walking, food and company. The hotel was good. My room was nice and I appreciated having a bath.

I loved the décor and the staff were very friendly. Like the last time I went I met an amazing group of people. It really is like having a holiday with a group of friends. Excellent organisation. Excellent pre-holiday information. I think these holidays are brilliant and look forward to my next one.” Suzanne Rushton - Ullswater Way – May 2019

“Been before many times! Saw holiday on website. Reservation no problem! Very good. Tristan was an excellent leader. Very knowledgeable, full of encouragement going up Corn Du! Absolutely 1st class! Group holiday already booked. Would recommend to others! All in all, Alan, another Secret Hills excellent holiday which I thoroughly enjoyed.” Beautiful Bracing Brecons - May 2019

“Hotel Tripic was ideal for this sort of holiday; informal but efficient. Hotel food good and plenty! Our 2 local guides were excellent, amusing and supportive. Walking through the beech woods in May was a beautiful experience. The organisation of the holiday gave me confidence. Will certainly consider another holiday and have spoken to friends about this good experience. Thankyou Alan and keep up the good work!” Peter Stretton - Slovenia - May 2019

“The guided walking was excellent. Jill was an excellent host and guide. The local guide was also excellent and very knowledgeable about the island. An excellent holiday with a great bunch of people.” Julia Carroll - La Palma - March 2019

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Walking Holidays in the UK & Europe · 10 April 3 3.5 . Shropshire Hills - Easter £535.00. N/A...

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Transcript of Walking Holidays in the UK & Europe · 10 April 3 3.5 . Shropshire Hills - Easter £535.00. N/A...