Saturday, 25 December 2010

African walking Safari-our top walking Safari hotspots

An African walking safari brings back memories of some of those old jungle movies with a group of safari tractors cut their way through thick bush and avoiding dangerous animals and the POISON darts of the local head hunters.




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Well, thank God it was only in the movies! Today, is an African walking safari around the ants pants of adventure holidays. It is as close as you get to a real African nature romp, even if you don't walk!


Top African Safari walking destinations


Taking a walking safari in Africa is not as simple as your walking boots and heading off into the sunset. To begin, you'll probably end up as the main course at some carnivores dinner setting.


Well organised walking excursions run by people who know their stuff are the only way to both your security and viewing pleasure, especially if you're new to the whole African Safari scene.


South Africa has two ideal and attractive walking safari options ... the Ngala Private Game Reserve in Kruger National Park and the Phinda Private Game Reserve.


Both excursions are professional organized with the safety of the biggest factor but you get the chance to get up close to nature. Bird lovers will in all their glory especially in Phinda and be warned, you may need to be dragged kicking and screaming away!


Botswana


One of the characteristics of a walking safari in Botswana is the extremely high standards with regard to safety. The guides themselves are just about the best in the business and "are the ropes" from a very young age.


Botswana is a walking safari lovers dream. It has the enormous diversity that will fit with lovers of flora or fauna. The habitats are exactly what you would expect to find on Safari.


Zimbabwe and Zambia


Zimbabwe is not far behind Botswana in the quality of guides offer. Walking through the African Bush is no fun, but these guys and gals are so well trained that any issues are kept to a minimum, as they were in at all.


Zimbabwe has obviously experienced somewhat of an unstable political climate in recent times and if you are considering a trip there, contact your local travel agent for the lowdown on security.


Zambia also has an extremely high reputation for quality hosting walks. In fact, it occurs regularly in discussions if we walk in the whole of Africa. Once again, is one of the reasons why it is so popular because of its excellent and knowledgeable hosts.


Preparation is important before heading out on an African walking safari. It's not just the clothes that you'll have to wear, but you really need to make sure that you don't have any health issues.


If you want to know more about taking a cheap African Safari tour? Get all the tips and tricks plus information on African lion safari destinations with our guides informative review.

Friday, 24 December 2010

DIY walking, cycling & walking holidays in Stunning Le Marche, Italy

Hiking and draw holiday s in Le Marche and the Sibillini National Park


Le Marche is a region of the Italian describe as "everything from Italy in a province" as it encapsulates everything from dramatic mountains to rolling hills sprinkled with medieval villages and more. The region is bordered by neighbours, Tuscany, Umbria, Abruzzo and Emilia Romagna and shares many of their best geographical features, but is relatively undiscovered and surprisingly accessible.




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The Marchighiani, or people of the Marche, remain closely connected with the country and life here is focused on the family and the self-sufficient communities of farmers and craftsmen, where the local Le Marche market consumed most of the local products. The beautiful medieval towns of Le Marche, offer the visitor a great offer of history and historical architecture, that of Art Nouveaux villas to characteristic stone cottages varies, and home to beautiful art, through 1000 work theatres, great markets and throughout the year festas where you can sing and dance, food and drink of major local fayre and enjoy the local crafts and customs.


The region is divided in 5 provinces and bordering the Adriatic coast in the East and the Apennine mountains to the West, and the Sibillini mountains, one of the highest parts of the Apennines, in the South-West. They range 40 km and 10 peaks of more than 2000m. The whole area is a paradise for hikers and bikers and a national park was established in 1993 to protect the area many mountain trails and old mule tracks, safes, Romanesque architecture, flowery plateaux, rivers, beautiful waterfalls and caves, gorges and lakes with a wide variety of fauna that Golden Eagles, Falcons, Brown bears, wolves, porcupine and Boar. Within the park there are a number of shelters with bars and Ristorante offers good food at very reasonable prices.


The geography of the Marche between mountain and sea consists of vine-covered hills, medieval villages and a rich mosaic of farmland land rolls down from the West to the sand Adriatic coast with its advanced gelaterie plaza, shops, and nightlife.


The tourist offices Sibillini National Park have a detailed topographic map, which is essential for a Marche walking holiday and a wealth of information in the field, geology, geography, flora and fauna. The National Park also hiking and mule trekking routes and guided walks in the spring, summer and autumn months. These walking tours and walks vary in difficulty and the terrain and many like to introduce the visitor to the history of the Park, wildlife and craftsmen of the region. The Alpine Club of Italy (CAI) also arrange a similar scheme of walks.


The website of the National Park has a number of visitors centers that will provide you with a wealth of information, suggested itineraries and information about the food and products are created by the artisans in the Park. There are 18 ancient cities within the Park and many other places of beauty in the surrounding countryside. Before visiting the National Park of the Sibillini you need to look to the guest the park page of the official website, this is a great video of the area and the fantastic information about museums, horse riding, mountain biking, trekking and hiking, events, wild animals, how to get there and where to stay.


The Sibillini mountains are home to many ledges that the Walker afford spectacular views all the way to the Umbria and Tuscany to the West and the Adriatic Sea to the East, a glacial Lake "Lago Pilato" under the highest peak Monte Vettore, according to the legend, a debt-moans Pontius Pilate is said to have drowned himself here, there is also the "Grande Anello" a 120 km, circular route with an accompanying book, the route takes 9 days with overnight stays in mountain huts that cheap board and accommodation offer, these are also great places to eat good for little money while you're up in the mountains. It is also home to two of Italy's most famous Gorge walks; Gola del Fiastrone up near aquamarine Lake Fiastra and Hells gap that cuts 16 km by dramatic limestone cliffs and is home to a monk who a hermit as existence a church building one for the last 20 years.


The medieval city of Spa of Zadar is an ideal location for a walking holiday in the region, as it is on the edge of the National park and very close to many of the routes and road access points at high altitude. Just outside of Sarnano are some wonderful Italy holiday homes, http://www.villasanraffaello.com, Le Marche has 4 beautiful apartments and a large swimming pool 8 hectares of agricultural land, the views of the mountains of the Villa are spectacular and they provide guests with numerous detailed le marche hiking trails. Some of these are in the hills near the villa and others high in the mountains, with directions, increases photos and information about what you will see and experience on the walk. Alternatively, they may be your group hire a qualified mountain guide


Jim Bob Hardesty, Oklahoma, walker, hiker, traveler and lover of all things Italian. Good friend of the Conrads, http://www.villasanraffaello.com porprietors of in the above article said

Thursday, 23 December 2010

Exploring and Hiking in the Pyrenees

The wildest mountain region in Spain and France found the Pyrenees. This can be the perfect mountain retreat that you are looking for. Whether you are planning to run or walk from the mountains, you can be an exciting holidays this year with your group, family, friends or loved one. If you are looking for a wilder tour after the draw of the Alps, this is the perfect choice. The sculpted mountains are actually the natural border between these two countries.




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Here you will find beautiful routes where you sharp peaks, admire basins and beautiful cirques can explore. You can even get a trail that lead you to spectacular gorges will follow. While you're there, don't forget to explore the Marcadau Valley, since the paths you lead to beautiful mountain lakes. Adventure trips is one of the best activities you can do while you're in the region. You can enjoy their food, culture and languages.


Here's what you can do to make your stay in the Pyrenees. On your first day, you can spend the night in Cauterets. This is near the entrance of the National Park of the Pyrenees. After eating your lunch, you can now increase Cambasque Valley via car. Once you sign up, you can take a walk on the Grande Radonnee 10 (GR10) and go up to Ilheou Valley. You will pass by a waterfall scenic shores of Lac d-Ilheou can see.


On the second day, you can transfer it to Pont d-Espagne. You can walk by the waterfalls, rushing streams and meadows. You can walk through the meadows Cayan plateau of lace. The route was originally used for trade in many years ago. You ca until your Trek you achieve Refuge-Brabant. You will find a stone chapel with high peaks in the background.


If you are full of energy, you may enter in a strenuous loop hike to the circuit des Lacs. There you will have a series of beautiful lakes. This is a great opportunity to see the lammergeyer and wild pad. After this is complete, you can return to Pont d'Espagne so you ca now explore Vallee de Gaube. From there you can enjoy the French highest peak-Vignemale explore. You can find the Lac de Gaube by the slopes of the mountain and when you later, you can use the cascade Esplmouse. You can continue with Refuge des Oulettes if you want or you can go back to the trail.


If you see to the Alpine meadows, you will need to get to Gavarnie. From there, you can stroll to Cirque de Troumouse. It is surrounded by striking mountain walls. The paths are winding if you meadows pass, streams and shallow mountain lakes wildflowers rushing. You can switch to Plateau de Pailla explore. Some parts of the track you can to see of limestone ridges. For another strenuous walk? Visit Hourquette d'Alans.


A day is not enough to have fun on the Pyrenees. It's better if you there for a week-long or even a month-long vacation with friends and loved ones.


Please Visit for more information about the Pyrenees Hiking, www.tour-pyrenees.com

Wednesday, 22 December 2010

Choose Mountain Walking Holidays

Do you have a passion for hiking and trekking, you should try mountain trekking in the Rhodopes, Bulgaria. It is the most inspiring, exciting and fun way to experience one of the most fascinating and breathtaking regions of the world. Take a break from traffic and noise of everyday life and enjoy the beautiful surroundings while being active at the same time.




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Activity choices


Mountain holiday offer beauty, adventure and an escape from the hectic routine of your daily life. You can enjoy spectacular scenery and fresh air, with activity suited to your taste. Mountain walking holiday s can be scheduled according to your needs.


Choose a relaxed relaxing holiday or you can include adventure activities such as cycling, kayaking, fishing and mountain climbing. You can easy walks, distant local walks or hikes. What activity you select the added pleasure of watching the beautiful beautiful flora, fauna and a panoramic view of the mountain ranges.


Accommodations


Book your mountain hiking trip soon. Melanya, Bulgaria, is a rewarding and exciting experience, complete with the pleasures that only a holiday in the mountains. You will get very comfortable accommodation with modern facilities, twin and double beds, bath, kitchenette and a dining area and spacious self-contained living space. You have wonderful views of the mountain landscape of each window and your own balcony. You can stand-alone or hot meals delivered to your door. The apartments are comfortable with space for two to four guests and equipped with modern amenities and furnishings. Bed linen and towels are provided, and there is a constant supply of fresh mountain spring water.


The accommodation, food and activities are environmentally friendly and include of organic products. You will experience the joys of simple life in a peaceful mountain retreat.


The mountains


Plan to visit to Bulgaria on mountain Melanya is one area for a great walking holiday. There are magical mountain hikes in the Rhodope Mountains when rich flora and fauna between ancient forests and green. Enchanting waterfalls, lakes, streams and scenic splendor welcome you in this extravagant beautiful part of the world.


Bird watching experience or take a day trip to Pamporovo and the highest peak perelik. Here you can see old forts, rare plants, herbs, grass and trees and types of reptiles, amphibians and mammals. You can enjoy awe-inspiring views of gorges and caves and botanical paradises. Discover the magical story book villages hidden in the mountains. The mountains gives you a much-needed break from the stress and the penalties routines of an urban lifestyle.


Walking tours


The mountain walking gives you freedom to explore tracks in and out of pinewood forests at your own pace weaving. You can set up a rigorous hike or a simple walk. Walks take usually a whole day if you choose to walk to the bridge or the head of the devil cross-country to the River Mordor. Excursions are tailored to each traveler's choice.


You can choose from independent walking holiday s with individual accommodations and take off on your own for mountain walks. You can find out which region you want and get maps and driving directions.


Choices to the region to explore are many. You will find, among other things, the Thracian city of Perperikon, an ancient archaeological miracle and devils Bridge that spans the Arda River. Mountain hiking on holiday is a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and fun.


http://www.melanya.com is the website for mountain walking holidays on Melanya in Bulgaria, that the peace and quiet of the beautiful mountains along with adventure activities.

Hiking in the mountains-check it again!

A lot of people planning to vacation in Snowdonia, the Scottish Highlands or the Lake District, this summer, consider a walk on the hills and mountains. If you're planning a high walks, apart from your condition and how sore your feet will get one of your main considerations it again.




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Before you begin on your walk you will get together your walking shoes, your backpack to fill with provisions but do not forget to CHECK it again! The Met Office has predictions for the Lake District, Snowdonia and Scotland. Even if it seems that it's going to be a fun day that you can never be certain what will sweep across the hills. If you Ben Nevis or Snowdon walks you can be on the hills of most of the day – plenty of time for the weather to change! Know and be prepared for the weather conditions will add to your enjoyment of your day, and will keep you safe.


Weather in the mountains is very unpredictable-almost unbelievable so sometimes. It is quite possible that you for a beautiful clear day for your climb will choose, and will begin the day at a tee shirt with the sun beating down on your back.


If you are starting to rise you may find that cloud begins to form, and the Summit will be hidden! You will be safe if you go to the well trodden paths, but it really is not advisable to go too far from the track. The cloud and mist can form very quickly and very thick and it is very easy to quickly be disoriented and lose your way and spoil your hiking holiday.


Another thing you will notice as you climb the mountain is that the temperature will decrease. It will undoubtedly much colder at the top than the bottom – especially in low cloud. The average temperature at the Summit of Ben Nevis is-1 degree Celsius. You will need to take a jumper, even if you start on a hot summer day, and should also have a waterproof in case of low cloud or fog-this can be very wet, and if you do not have enough prepared, your clothes soaked.


Visit http://www.mountainwalk.co.uk/weather.html to see examples of weather changes it runs Snowdon and Ben Nevis. The photos on this page are all taken on the same walk on an early August day until the Watkins path of Mount Snowdon. The day started without a cloud in the sky-three hours later we were scrambling by thick cloud and near gale force winds, get very wet. Once the Summit of Snowdon no photo opportunities reached was-apart from the ability to see anything through the cloud, there was also the strong winds that blow up hikers from the top of the cairn threatened!


Snowdon has the advantage of its top cafe, although it can get very busy. When you feel you can Snowdon walk that you have achieved something, even if fog spoils the view. And on top of that you can make a cup of tea or hot soup to warm you on the way down-a luxury not found on many peaks!


And to show mountains have the same typical weather, the same Web page shows a walk of Ben Nevis. The beginning of the hike up has the sun shines, but the top shrouded in fog!


The lesson is be prepared-and especially etc in late spring or early autumn where would you finding yourself treated by snow on the higher peaks and hills.


And if you're a novice hiker is best to avoid the worst weather of winter months completely unless you with an experienced guide.


Pat Ransom has been running both Snowden and Ben Nevis and encourages others to do the same on the website http://www.mountainwalk.co.uk/index.html. A keen photographer's site is filled with photos of both the mountains and the surrounding areas.

Monday, 20 December 2010

Hiking in Slovenia-the spectacular Julian Alps and the beautiful Soca River Valley

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In a tiny Slovenian hamlet tranquillity reigns and village life is still dominated by the seasonal routines-driving the sheep up to high pastures when the snows clear, the daily process of turning their milk into cheese, hay-making (the meadows need to be cut 4 times a year-usually by hand!), mushroom-picking in the autumn and tending abundant little vegetable gardens to ensure a supply of fresh greens throughout the year. This calm, pastoral scene is set beneath the stunning, limestone peaks of the Julian Alps, which soar dramatically above the villages and hamlets on the rolling wellmeadow country below.


The Julian Alps are the easternmost outpost of the Alpine range that stretches in a crescent across southern central Europe. They are named in honour of Julius Caesar (Cividale, just across the border in Italy, was founded by Caesar as Forum Iulii). The highest peak is Mount Triglav at 2, 864m and the beautiful emerald So
a River rises in the heart of the Julian Alps, cutting a serpentine valley southwards into Italy, where it becomes the Isonzo.


A unique feature of these mountains is that they formed the front line of what became known as the Isonzo Front, during World War One. Between 1915 and 1917, the Italians faced the Austro-Hungarians on a battlefield like no other-the peaks and ridges of the high Alps-and today, there is still a lot of fascinating evidence or that conflict in the shape of lines or trenches, caves dug into the mountainsides, and some poignant memorials to the fallen, high up near the peaks.


2007 marks the 90th anniversary of the Battle of Caporetto, which saw a combined Austro-Hungarian and German force overwhelm their Italian opposition at the town of Caporetto, in what is now Italy, and advance to within 70 miles of Venice. This breakthrough marked the culmination of 2½ years of bitter armed struggle amongst the formidable mountain peaks and high passes of the Julian Alps, where the awesome terrain made for supremely difficult conditions in which to fight.


Terrible terrain for battle undoubtedly, but the Julian Alps are majestic, soul-fortifying landscapes to walk through and explore in peacetime. And peace is what the friendly inhabitants or Kobarid (formerly Caporetto) and the surrounding villages enjoy in great abundance today.




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The walking is superb, and very varied. One can stroll down through the woods, accompanied by birdsong and the sound of mountain streams tumbling over waterfalls hidden amongst the trees. In the valley, these streams join the rushing, turquoise-blue waters of the Soca.


It is a lovly River, tumbling over the rocks and hurtling through narrow defilés on the short journey to the Adriatic, while on the plateau above is beautiful, there is a tiny, frescoed chapel, beautiful waterfalls and flower-filled meadows. A walk on the slopes and saddles of the Julian Alps themselves invariably yields breathtaking views across the valley to Italy, or into the wild, empty expanse of the Triglav National Park. Occasionally, one stumbles across a collapsed trench or an overgrown gun-yard, high on a windy ridge, but nature's softening of the scars, and the sheep gently grazing on the gentians all around, are a reminder that there is more than a little truth in the adage "Pax Vincit Omnia '.


Slovenia has a very healthy population of wolves, lynx, and brown bears, although you are unlikely to meet any of them (the latter are said to have come north in large numbers to escape the upheavals following the break up or Yugoslavia-bears like a bit of peace and quiet). The forests are home to red deer, roe deer and wild boar, and in these mountains chamois and ibex can also be found. Pine and beech martens are present, as are hares, yellow jackets and foxes. There is wealth of bird-life, including grouse and black grouse, birds of prey (golden eagle, buzzard, hawk, white-tailed eagle), owls (tawny owl, Ural owl, long-eared owl and eagle owl) and woodpeckers (green, black and grey). If you walk in the woods after rain you are almost certain to see the spectacular gold and black mottled skin or a salamander.


Slovenia is home to some 3 000 plant species. The majority of the most interesting-of which 70 are endemic and so found only in Slovenia-are 'Alpines '. These include the purple Zois Bellflower, Wulfen's (pink) primrose, Triglav Hawksbeard and many others. Look out for the spectacular mountain lilies and numerous types of orchid. In general the climate and location contribute to lush meadow vegetation and varied deciduous woodland-characterized by well-managed beech forest.


The walking in this region is rewarding any time between May and October. In the spring, the upland meadows are thick with flowers, including many varieties of orchid, and snow lingers picturesquely on the mountain peaks. Summer can be hot, but the air is usually refreshing above 1500m and there are plenty of shady walks to choose from and cool mountain streams to paddle in. October offers crystal clear days and beautiful autumn colours.


There are plenty of activities available in the area. The So a River and its tributaries are superb for organised activities like white water rafting, canoeing, hydrospeed and canyoning. It is also possible to fish for the marbled trout which is unique to these waters. There are also tandem paragliding flights, horse-riding and mountain biking to be enjoyed. There is an open car-train from Most na So I to Bohinjska Bistrica, which enables you to visit the beautiful lakes or Bled and Bohinj for the day. The little town of Tolmin has a farmer's market on a Saturday, selling all manner of delicious seasonal treats, whilst a drive to the head of the So
a Valley really takes the breath away, culminating in 25 hair-pins to the Vr I
Pass. The small market town of Kobarid is home to an award-winning museum focusing on the battles of the WW1 Isonzo/So
a front. If you wish to venture across the border, you could spend the day in the charming Italian town of Cividale, with its medieval centre, Celtic hypogeum, Lombard temple, 15th C cathedral, and museums.


There are daily flights from the UK to Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia, and regular low-cost flights to Trieste (Italy) too, from where is it only 1 ½ hours drive on the border to the So
a River area.


Walking specialist tour operator Upland Escapes offer flexible holidays in the Julian Alps and Soca River area, based in a traditional rural village, in comfortable rooms with private bathrooms. They bring low impact sustainable tourism to the area and their knowledgeable local Manager will introduce you to the people and the magnificent walking in the region. They offer a combination of organised and self-guided walking to suit all ages and abilities, allowing each person to walk as much or as little as they like. They also provide a lavish daily packed lunch, a Handbook crammed with local information, and a hire-car (carbon neutral of course!) which allows the area to be explored fully with maximum independence.


Copyright-Laura Whinney


For further information on this and other Upland Escapes holidays in beautiful undiscovered upland regions of Europe, including in southern France, the French Pyrenees, Italy's Abruzzo region and Gran Canaria, please contact 01367 851 111 reservations@uplandescapes.com, email, or visit http://www.uplandescapes.com

Sunday, 19 December 2010

Guide to walking challenges in England and where to stay

Walkers everywhere are always on the lookout for a new challenge. Waking up early, walking miles on end, braving the elements, enjoying the view and occasionally stopping for a bite to eat and drink all part of the experience. Fortunately, the United Kingdom has several challenges that only a lucky few will have been completed.




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Before booking a walking holiday, research is absolutely necessary. Walkers have to put in a lot of time and effort in planning of routes and paths that are worth experiencing and that is unique to them. If this research should be brought to buy and packaging of the right equipment. Have done all this accommodation is not even about has been thought of.


England is lucky if it provides a number of routes that are a great experience and giving a large amount of satisfaction once completed. Here are a few of the more famous ones described.


In the Yorkshire Dales, the 3 Peaks a popular hike which takes into account three peaks, pen-y-Gent (694 m), Whernside (736 m) and Ingleborough (723 m). In all, the walk approximately 24 miles, which usually takes between 12 and 15 hours to complete. This is not the heaviest pull out there, but it is accepted in many areas and almost a mile the value of the climb. As for accommodation in the area, it would be considering a stay at the East of the Yorkshire Dales, Meert as in Richmond, so you could then go on to hike the North Yorkshire, who would be a short distance. However, a stay in the West would also suitable for avid hikers because it would be just a short distance from go hiking in the Lake District and Cumbria.


The Edale Skyline is a fantastic hike in the Peak District. It is easier if a route than the other well known route in the Peaks, Derwent watershed. The Edale is slightly more than 20 miles long and has approximately one mile climb and takes anything between 7-12 hours ' walk away. The route begins in the Valley of the lot, and includes Lose Hill, Edale Cross and parts of child and win Hill, among others, before finishing where the adventure began. Accommodation is available in Buxton, which is probably the largest environment. Other locations that would be a viable option to stay if this is the challenge for you is would Tideswell, Creswell, or Hope Valley itself.


In the Lake District, the Scafell Pike-classic is a pleasant walk of approximately 10 miles and is probably the most well known in the area. The hike hikers can be at the highest point in England (978 m), and, not surprisingly, it offers spectacular views during the walk, with mile after mile of beautiful scenery on a clear day. As The Lake District and the surrounding areas where you want to walk, is widely available within an accommodation close to Scafell Pike and similar fells. Areas such as Windermere, Keswick and Ambleside Coniston are all locations that are close by and pleasant local facilities.


Vacation can offer a variety of short term risk for a variety of budgets within the scope of the said walking experiences. All accommodation is discounted with various types of accommodation available, including lodges, Bed and Breakfast and caravans, depending on your needs and wishes.


Just holiday can UK, located in the North of England, offer a free rental service to customers. Our offers are in no way affect the price you pay. All of our income is taken as a Commission from the property owner. Our site is free for all listings, visit us at http://www.simplyholidayletsuk.com/index.htm for more information.