Experience the rising popularity of a walking holiday this year, exploring hidden gems on scenic trails and lesser-known paths. Alongside our partners, we can offer famous trekking routes such as the Tour du Mont Blanc circuit in France and the Inca Trail in Peru. But the wonders don't stop there. Venture off the beaten path in Morocco, Turkey, Albania, and Spain to uncover extraordinary, uncharted trails away from the typical tourist routes.
Morocco
Mount Toubkal, M’Goun, and the Rif Mountains might be the first peaks that come to mind when you’re thinking about a trekking adventure in Morocco, but the ascent to Jebel Aklim in the Anti-Atlas is uniquely rewarding. From its 2,531-metre summit, you'll be treated to panoramic vistas of neighbouring mountains, the High Atlas, and the extinct volcano of Jbel Sirwa.
The journey itself is captivating, taking you through landscapes imbued with the rich history of the Amazigh people with their distinctive language, traditions, music, and crafts. As you pass remote mountain villages, the Amazighs – known for their hospitality – will often invite you into their homes for mint tea or local delicacies. In the harvest season, you’ll often see brightly dressed women and children working in the fields and on the terraces.
Turkey
In Turkey, Cappadocia stands out for the ancient hermit dwellings in Paşabağı (Monk’s Valley) and the underground city of Kaymakli, the Byzantine monasteries in the Ihlara Valley, and the painted-rock churches in the Göreme Open-Air Museum. Dawn hot air balloon rides are the classic way to see this region, but hiking allows you to explore lesser-known valleys such as Pancarlik and Kizilcukur.
In Pancarlik, rocks in pastel hues ripple like waves, blending with vineyards and cultivated gardens. Distinctive churches include Pancarlık Church, an ancient monastic settlement and place of Christian worship for more than 1400 years, with well-preserved frescoes depicting the life of Christ. Kizilcukur Valley has churches and monastic complexes etched into the pink rock faces, like meringues set in stone, and mesmerising sunsets.
Albania
With untouched landscapes, ancient trails, fascinating historic monuments, and great hospitality, Albania is increasingly popular among those looking for an off-the-beaten-track experience. It has spectacular trails weaving through the Albanian Alps, Theth, and Valbona National Parks, extending south towards Koman Lake, Krujë, and Berat — a city on the Osum River celebrated for its Ottoman houses, Ethnographic Museum, and King Mosque.
A trek from Theth Valley towards Theth Waterfall takes you through the pinkish stone groves of Nderlysa, shaped by the abundant black river. Carrying on, you'll encounter a series of natural rock pools, the most impressive being the Blue Eye (Syri i kaltër) of Kapre – make sure to bring swimming gear and towels for a refreshing dip.
Spain
In Spain, the Pyrenees and Picos de Europa are the most famous hiking spots, but the Sierra de Aitana in the Valencia region, with its dramatic peaks, dense forests, and winding trails, is an undiscovered haven for those in search of a quieter and more authentic experience.
From the charming village of Guadalest, you can meander towards the limestone needles of Penya Roc, ascend to Collado Papatxi, then climb to the high pastures of Foia Plana and Morro Blau, and up to Serrella Peak. You descend through a sweeping gorge of terraced olive groves leading to the village of Abdet, from where you can head to Villajoyosa Beach, tour a chocolate factory, or climb Puig Campana.
About our partner
Exodus Adventure Travels have been leading award-winning adventure tours for the past 50 years. Their trips include walking and cycling tours that take in awe-inspiring scenery and breathtaking wildlife encounters. From an African odyssey to a journey of discovery in Central America and pioneering expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic, together we can ensure you have the holiday of a lifetime.
To book your walking holiday in Morocco, Turkey, Albania, or Spain, call your Travel Counsellor today.
One of the best things about late November and December is getting into the festive spirit, and we can’t think of a better way to embrace the season than shopping for unique Christmas gifts on a European city break, somewhere with a fabulous festive market. We’ve chosen our must-visit Europe Christmas markets for 2023, with some continuing into early January if you want to keep the festive feels going.
Finnish Lapland in winter offers something that’s hard to find elsewhere: long stretches of snow, quiet surroundings, and a pace of life that encourages people to slow down. It’s a place where the days can feel calm and steady, even when temperatures drop well below freezing. It’s a place where winter isn’t just a backdrop but part of everyday life, and here’s what you can expect when you experience it for yourself.
Choosing the right accommodation can transform a great holiday into an unforgettable one. In Barbados, finding that perfect home-away-from-home is made simple with Blue Sky Luxury. With an impressive portfolio of over 200 of the island's finest villas, holiday homes, and apartments, they offer a tailored approach to Caribbean living. Whether you dream of waking up to the sound of the waves or enjoying the privacy of a grand estate, there is a property to suit your vision.
