Full version 2018 online

Where the experience is everything 2018

High Point HolidaysWhere the Experience is EverythingCover photo: Queyras Tarn Guided 2015 W elcome to the 2018 edition of our So, what’s New for 2018… Walking Holidays Brochure. We have several new self guided walking holidays in For those new to High Point Holidays, we hope France including a new wine trail in the Bordeaux region you’ll enjoy browsing our walking holidays which range home to the famous St Emilion, Entre Deux Mers and Sau- from gentle strolls through beautiful vineyards to chal- ternes wines. We also have a unique trek crossing Alpine lenging mountain treks. There are walks to suit all tastes Provence mountain chains from near the Rhone Valley to and abilities and most of our holidays can be tailored to Grasse in the foothills above Cannes. In the Alps we have a match your requirements. So please don't hesitate to new Tour of the Ubaye as well as a Trekking Tour of contact us to help us create that perfect holiday. the Viso in Italy. We have added to our Burgundy holidays All our cycling holidays can be viewed online and in a with a centre based Brionnais Explorer and to our separate brochure on request. Also excluded from the Brittany holidays with a walking holiday on the Granite brochure are a handful of self-guided holidays as well as Coast. Plus we have the addition of Spanish holidays on a few guided trips which can be run for private groups. If the Costa Brava and in Andalucia as well as a new UK you are part of a walking group, then we can cater for holiday in the Heart of Thomas Hardy’s Dorset. larger numbers, as we have successfully arranged self guided and guided bespoke holidays in recent years. If you’ve yet to come on one of our walking holidays, I’d If you are one of the several people that enquired about just like to tell you a bit about our philosophy. We aim to guided walking holidays for singles or couples to join, provide a genuine opportunity for you to feel part of the please note we are no longer running scheduled guided local way of life through our choice of accommodation, walking holidays. However, if you are only interested in many of which provide full or half board making our holi- a guided walking holiday please e-mail us with your op- days excellent value for money. Quality of service and tions for destination and month and we can see whether standards are never compromised in providing the High anyone else is interested. This will be subject to Point experience and we are committed to bringing you a minimum numbers and availability. personal and flexible service to help you get the most out Please note that holiday prices are on a separate ‘price of your holiday. Our aim is to make your holiday the High list.’ Prices are shown in pounds and euros. The euro Point of your year. price will normally be a fixed price for our French and Spanish holidays, whilst we reserve the right to change Thanks Again to everyone of you that walked or cycled our sterling price based on the exchange rate, if neces- with us in 2017. sary. However, once you’ve booked and the price in pounds is agreed, unless indicated to you, then this price We look forward to hearing from you soon. will be the price you pay on final payment. Our non-UK customers can also choose to pay in Euros William Armstrong - Partner direct to our French sister company Randonnees Outre- Manche.2 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

Contents4 The High Point Holidays’ Experience What you can expect on a High Point Holiday including a detailed look at the winner of our Accommodation of the Year award6 “What you’ve been telling us…” We take a look at what you’ve been telling us about your walking holidays in the Jura, Brionnais, the Vanoise and the Tarn8 Choosing your Walking Holiday Our guide to choosing the holiday that’s right for you, including guided versus independent, other options and walking grades11 Holiday Diary 2018 Suggestions for when to walk and where, plus a selective list of festivals and events to tie in with your walking holidays13 Walking Holidays in France, Spain & Italy Our walking holidays by region, with a map of France and a full directory list to help you find your perfect holiday57 Walking Holidays in the UK Our selection of self-guided walking holidays in England and Wales63 Travel Options Options for travelling to and from your walking holidays65 Essential Information & Booking Insurance, how to book and our booking formNot all of our holidays are included in this brochure. For example, a limited number of self- Contact usguided walking holidays in the UK & France, as well as some cycling holidays in France arenot covered. In addition, the brochure does not include all of the destinations where we Tel: +44 (0)7483 241 945are able to run guided walking holidays for private groups or clubs. You can find more [email protected] about all of our holidays on our web site: High Point Holidays www.highpointholidays.co.uk 5 Enfield Drive Evercreech Keep up to date with us on: Shepton Mallet Facebook: HighPointHolidays Somerset BA4 6LL Twitter: HighPointWalks 3 Pinterest: highpointhols/ [email protected]

The High Point Holidays’ ExperienceO ur walking holidays have been designed to Wonderful Regional Cuisine let you enjoy the best a region has to offer, avoiding, where possible, main tourist Our holidays are all about home cooked local specialitiesroutes. We choose destinations where distinct local lovingly prepared with fresh regional produce, sometimesidentity thrives and in France, with its astonishing grown on the farm where you’re staying. Most eveningregional variety, you'll discover these differences in meals are 4-course set menus taken in your guest houseculture, history, architecture, wildlife, landscapes where you’ll get to try original and delicious dishes. Mealsand food. We aim to make you feel part of the in the B&B’s are great experiences, where you share yourlocal way of life with our choice of small guest table with your hosts and other travellers that may behouses. We look for traditional guest houses in staying in the guest house. You will enjoy a convivialbeautiful surroundings, where a personal, friendly evening with great food, washed down by the local wine.service is guaranteed and where great authenticlocal food and drink is on offer. Small Guest Houses, Big WelcomeOur choice of guest houses is synonymous with HighPoint's philosophy. We use small independent guesthouses (where available and appropriate for the size ofyour group), often set in magnificent surroundings, withtheir own unique character. Chosen for the friendliness ofthe hosts as well as their charm and quality. Whether it'sshowing you around their historic property, or a visit totheir cellar to try the wine from their vineyard, they willtake great pleasure in making your stay extra specialand may provide you with some useful tips for yourfollowing day's activities. \"Every guest house and every host was so special each in it's \"The huge plus factor for me was the opportunity own/their own way. The chambre d'hotes/table d'hote to stay with a family. It was a unique chance to stay in a private home, share a meal with the hosts andexperience was new to us and we loved it - so much fun to have chat about all manner of things. We felt part of the people from different countries all stumbling around in each country, and not just that we were skimming theother's language and getting to know each other. We love hiking surface. We were delighted and amazed we got on in France and this has been our most enjoyable trip. Your so well with people. Local produce, regional dishes, company really does an excellent job.\" K. Higgins, USA home cooking all contributed. In general the \"Overwhelmed by the level of hospitality received. We have holiday fulfilled all our expectations and provided walked with other companies in France but this was by far the much more!\" J Kay, UK best. A thoroughly enjoyable experience.\" S Adkins, UK \"It is authentic: home-cooked food in generous amounts. Aknowledgeable host who takes an interest in what you are doing each day. A relaxed, convivial environment. Very encouraging/ supportive of my French! No pretensions or affectations.\" D. Fuller, UK\"Enjoyed meeting all the hosts, sampling local dishes and wines. As before, a great holiday.\" A & C Nicholls, UK \"We had excellent food and wine at all guest houses. We have really enjoyed every bottle of Beaujolais wine - red, rose orwhite - that we have been offered... your choice of guest houses enabled us to experience some of the local French way of lifehere. We have been enormously impressed by the quality of the whole experience.\" J. Campbell, Australia4 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

Focus on the Jura Nathalie & Ludwig: Les Jardins sur Glantine Les Jardins sur Glantine is a unique, small guest house located in an 18th century house in one of the main streets of Poligny.The Grand rue in Poligny has a large number of what are known as hotel particular, which are large town houses built for the rich families of the area. Hotel Guerrillot, as this property is otherwise known, is fairly innocuous from the road but onceyou pass through the large front door you’ll be transported into a different world. Nathalie, an excellent cook, and Ludwig, a wine producer, will afford you a very warm welcome. Les Jardins sur Glantine is made up of the main house which houses the dining room as well as the two immaculate suites. Below part of the house is the cellar where part of Ludwig’s wine production is conserved and from which you’ll have the opportunity to sample. High Point Holidays' Accommodation of the YearThis year we are delighted to announce that the winner of our Accommodation of the Year award is Les Jardins sur Glantine located in the heart of the historic town of Poligny in the Jura. Over the last 12 months we have used our customer feedback along with our own experience to judge all ouraccommodation providers for the quality and service that meet the High Point philosophy.Please use our evaluation forms after your holiday to tell us about those special places and their hosts that have made your holiday memorable or have exceeded all expectations. “Nathalie served us with a memorable beautifully cooked evening meal (with Ludwig’s wine that we had to try!) Also a fantastic breakfast that we struggled to eat.” C & M. Duck, UK \"At Jardin Glantines, Nathalie and Ludwig really went out of their way for us. Nathalie's dinner (with Ludwig's wine) was a culinary high point, and we loved talking wine with Ludwig and seeing his cellar.\" L. Shames, USA “Jardins sur Glantine had very friendly hosts with a fabulous breakfast, delicious evening meal and lovely wine.” A. Blackhall, UK Value For Money Quality of Service Loyalty SchemeIn creating our holidays we seek to match Value for money is nothing without We value each and every one of ourquality with value for money in order to create quality of service. customers but we like nothing morean experience that can be enjoyed on a than customers coming back year aftermodest budget. Many of the holidays are full We seek to ensure customer year because they enjoy the authenticboard and all prices are based on 2 people satisfaction with our holiday and personalised High Point experience.sharing a room, unless otherwise stated; a arrangements.single supplement being payable for single That's why we reward returningtravellers or those not wishing to share a If you have any specific comments or customers for their loyalty. Aroom. concerns relating to a holiday, then please don't hesitate to contact us. Returning Customer qualifies for aWith the exception of local transfers, travel to 2.5% discount on their holiday andthe holiday destination is not included in the In order to ensure the continued im- subsequent holidays; 5 trips qualifiesholiday package, allowing you to make your provement of our holidays, we kindly for a one off 5% discount and 2.5%own arrangements and therefore benefit from ask that you complete an evaluation on subsequent holidays and 10 tripsany low cost flights or special deals offered by form at the end of your holiday.ferry companies. also qualifies for a one off 5% discount and 2.5%We aim to be clear and transparent as to whatis included in the price of the holiday, see on subsequent holidays.individual holidays for details. See website for Terms and [email protected] 5

“What you’ve been telling us…….”JURA WINE TRAIL:\"A delightful holiday! Food, wine and scenery wonderful. Theaccommodation was all of high standard and each had its owndistinctive character.\" C & J Parish, UK\"We enjoyed the variety of scenery and places to stay. It felt likea brilliantly friendly part of unspoilt France. We really loved it.Thank you.\" T & P Broughton, UK See Page 46 BEAUTIFUL BRIONNAIS - SECRET HILLS OF BURGUNDY: \"Enjoyed experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the people after a delightful day walking in the countryside. Thank you again William for another memorable family holiday.\" N & A Blackhall, UK “ I am still basking in the memories. I hung the map up so I can recall the trip every day, and I’ve been telling all my friends about it.\" D Streeter, USA \"I thought the choice of accommodation was brilliant with each property offering high levels of hospitality but all so different too.\" T. Whitehouse, UK \"Amazing choice of guest houses. We enjoyed staying at such varied guest houses & meeting so many friendly people, both the host & hostesses and the fellow guests.\" B & V Marlow, UK \"Everything was excellent! \" E & F Floyd, UK See Page 216 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

TREKKING TOUR OF THE VANOISE:\"Thanks William... We enjoyed it all.\"Breheny, Bakalor & May, Australia\"My first time in the Alps. It was spectacular.\"A. Quick, UK\"I enjoyed the scenery and the flora and faunaof the Alps.\" J. Hulse, UK\"Fabulous walking and staying in refuges in wildmountains. Best holiday we've had for ages.\"O & S. Watts, UK See Page 34HISTORIC VILLAGES & VALLEYS OF THE TARN:\"Walking with beautiful scenery & medieval villages. Enjoyed all walks.Lovely accommodation and owners.\" J & T Fawle, UK See Page 44TARN’S MEDIEVAL BASTIDES:\"We enjoyed the medieval villages/hamlets, the local cuisine andwonderful hosts.\" J & A Jerse, Canada\"Great scenery and views and lovely accommodation.\" D & J Roach, UK“We love hiking in France and this has been our most enjoyable trip.Your company really does an excellent job.\" K. Higgins, USA See Page 43GUIDED HISTORIC VILLAGES & VALLEYS OF THE TARN:\"Many thanks for a great holiday. The accommodation was good and the food magnificent. \" A. Purvis et al, UK“The experiences you set up over and above the pleasure of the walks were beyond all expectations and I shouldlike to reiterate my sincere thanks to you for everything.\" B. Wombwell, UK See Page [email protected] 7

Choosing Your Walking HolidayO ur destinations are chosen for their beautiful scenery and the holidays aredesigned to let you discover the real identityof that region; allowing you time to appreci-ate its unique cuisine, architecture, history,culture, wildlife and scenery. We like to high-light each day's walking with, for example,a breathtaking vista or an architecturaltreasure. Each holiday description includes abullet pointed summary of some of itshighlights. Options for interest include: Coastal - Mountains - Waterfalls & Lakes - Wine Tasting and Vines - Historic Villages - WildlifeSelf-Guided Walking Holidays If you have a specific interest and not sure which walking holiday to choose Independence and Flexibility: please don't hesitate to give us a call to discuss your options, or drop us an e-mailOn an independent walking holiday, you're just that… with an outline of what you're looking for.independent. We will try to accommodate whateveryour group number, bearing in mind availability of On our website you can find informationaccommodation. If you want to get up late, want to take on the climate of the region you havea detour, it's all up to you... as long as you can get chosen to explore, as well as someyourselves to the next B&B. Some walking holidays have indications of ideal times of the year toseveral days at the same accommodation, so then it'sreally is up to you if one day you decide you need a visit, whether that's to see the lavenderbreak from walking and want to explore the local village in bloom, the wine harvest or the autumnor town. We also endeavour to offer flexibility into the colours. We have a Holiday Diary (pagesindependent walking holidays with our walking notes 11-12) with some seasonal guides to helpproviding you with choices, where available. For most ofour self guided walking holidays, you can start your you decide.holiday on the day of your choosing, subject toavailability of course. “The walking grade was perfect - some days easy, some more challenging and I Maps & Personalised Walking Notes: appreciated the optional ascents. The highlighted maps and walking notes wereWe provide you with detailed local 1/25000 walking maps.You will also be provided with our detailed walking notes so helpful.\" J. Hulse, UKwhich as well as being regularly updated are personalisedfor each customer. The trail description itself is very Every thing went very smoothly, and yourdetailed, to leave you in no doubt about where you need to walking notes were absolutely brilliant, bygo next. The walking notes provide information you won't far the best of any we have encountered infind in a guidebook with local sights to see, some of whichrequire a detour and it's up to you whether you make the the various walking holidays we haveeffort to go. They contain all the essential information undertaken.\" H & J Campbell, Australiayou'll need to ensure a relaxed and hassle-free holiday. Your guidebook was excellent and veryWalking Notes Local Interests Practical Info’ accurate with directions.” E & D Banister, UKDetailed Trail Notes History Guest HousesDistances Culture Emergency ContactsTimings Architecture DoctorsWalking Grade Historic Monuments ChemistsAltitude Gains Economy MarketsWay Markings Food & Drink Post OfficeAlternative Routes Wildlife Cash Points Was very impressed and grateful for so much information. Instructions were very good & easy to follow.\" J & T Fawle, UK8 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

Self-Guided Walking HolidaysTailor-Made Independent WalkingFound an independent holiday you like the lookof, but want to make it longer or shorter? Noproblem, let us know and we can adjust thebeginning or end of your holiday and arrangeanother activity if you wish (such as a wine tastingcourse) or just allow you more time to explore thelocal town or village. There will be somesuggestions on alternatives to tailor your holidayon our website. For larger groups we can, in someinstances, create a holiday in a new area just foryou. So don’t hesitate to get in touch to find outhow we can help you.Self Catering Walking Holiday -Luggage Transfers-If you have a limited budget or are a group orfamily that would rather be in one location for the Whether you choose a Guided or Selffull length of your holiday, then you could consider Guided Walking Holiday, with the exceptionself catering. On our website you will find a of any backpacking treks in the Alps, wenumber of self catering options in different provide a luggage transfer service. Thislocations. We supply you with information about means that you only need to carry the mostthe area as well as suggested walks and then you essential items with you in your daycan do as much or as little walking as you wish. rucksack, safe in the knowledge that your luggage will be ready at your nextMade to Measure Holiday over-night stop.You have an idea for a holiday, but would like help organisingit? We can help bring your ideas to life. Thanks to our network \"On\"cOenacgeaaingayinouyocaumcaemuep utrputmrupms wpsitwh iathrranrrgainginyegtof specialist partners we can create a range of activity or anoytheet ranwootnhdeerrwfuolnwdaelrkfiunlgwwaelkeikngfowr eoeukr fgorrouopu.r Irelaxation holidays in France. Here are some suggestions: cgoronutipn.ueI ctonetnintuheusteoaebnothuut sHeigahboPuotinHtiHgholPidoainyst Htool- idfariyesntdosfarinedndascqaunadinatcaqnucaeisn.t\"aBn.cWeso.\"mBb. wWeollm, UbKwell,Horse riding in the Thermal spa relaxation inBurgundy Hills Alps or Massif Central QUuKey(rQause: yTrhaes:BTehset KBeepst KSecprteSteicnrtehteinAtlhpes.APlapgseG3u6id.-Hot air ballooning Wine tasting courses in ed Walking Holiday) Burgundy or BeaujolaisMountain Biking in Visiting the city of Lyon \"We had a super holiday, (weren't we lucky with theBeaujolais weather!) and you and Ann really worked hard to make it so enjoyable. We do hope that we shallGuided Walking Holidays meet again - you are surely at the top of the list for guiding us!\" L & E Fielding, UKYour Guide's local knowledge & experience: Jura Discovery: Wine Trails and Medieval Villages. Page 48.Your guide will make sure you make the most of yourholiday through professional, informative and supportive Walking Groups:leadership. As well as ensuring safe progression, the leaderwill bring to life the region, through their passion and Our guided walking holidays are ideal forknowledge on such subjects as history, geology, food and groups of friends who enjoy walking as wellwine. We only use experienced guides that are resident in as the more formal walking clubs that wishthe country. The guide will pace the day so that there willbe plenty of time to take photos, relax and soak up the to explore further afield. Guided walkingatmosphere. holidays are generally available for groups ofBilingual Guides: between 4 and 24 people. The type of accommodation used and the price of theIf you can, for example speak a little French, you maybe holiday will depend on the number in themore confident to try out your grasp of the language with group. We like to use smaller, more informalyour hosts in the knowledge that your guide can help youout. Some of the French B&B owners speak English, but guest houses, where possible for ourhaving a bilingual guide can certainly help you out with holidays, but this won’t be feasible withcommunication and therefore your enjoyment of yourholiday. larger groups.Flexibility:Flexibility around local situations or circumstances bychanging the itinerary where appropriate. For example ifthe weather was very wet and everyone agreed that theydid not want to do the day's walk, the guide can providetransport to a location to look around an abbey or castle.Your guide can also help in terms of understanding thebest routes for the group’s interests and abilities. [email protected] 9

Choosing Your Walking Holiday Other Guided Holiday Options Individuals or Small Groups:Tailor-Made Guided Walking If you wish to go on one of our guided walkingWe have experience of providing guided walking holidays in holidays but are travelling on your own or as aFrance as well as further afield and usually cater for groups couple, then we may still be able to help youof 4 to 24 walkers. Although there are many guided walking with your holiday plans. We can seek to form aholidays detailed in this brochure, if there are particular group with other people who have contacted usoptions or changes you are looking for, please contact us to with the same interests, or you may be able todiscuss. In addition we also join an existing group who are open to newhave a number of guided additions. Once we have a few peopleholiday destinations which interested in a particular holiday with a specificare not covered by our week in mind we willbrochure. These include the then advertise theAtlas Mountains and Sahara holiday to fill theDesert in Morocco and the remaining placesPicos de Europa in Spain, as available. We willwell as a large number of generally notdestinations in France. confirm the holiday until the minimum Walking Grades number of 4 people has been reached. Holiday Profile When choosing your walking holiday you need to In addition to the information presented in consider whether the amount and difficulty of the this section and on our directory page, each walking is a good match to your abilities and specific holiday page has some summary experience. We grade all our walks from Easy to information and symbols to help you identify Challenging based on the daily hours walked, the as rapidly as possible whether the holiday is amount of ascent and descent, and the type of right for you. This information is explained terrain. We then give a recommendation as to the here. walker's experience and fitness for each grade. At a Glance EASY GUIDED / INDEPENDENT Less than 5 hours walking per day at a gentle pace with less than 400m (1300 feet) Price: See Price List ascent/descent. Generally good paths on undulating terrain with gentle gradients. Anybody in reasonable Grade: health should enjoy this grade of walking. No previous walking experience required. Profile: MODERATE Dates: March October Walks of between 4-6 hours, Type of Holiday with the odd longer day and less than 700m (2400 feet) ascent/descent. Generally on good paths Guided Walking Holiday although there could be steeper sections with rough conditions underfoot. You should have experience of Independent Walking Holiday day walking, and be in reasonable health. Average daily distances are about 15-20km. Centre Based or multi-day circuit MODERATE/ Walking between guest CHALLENGING houses on most days Walks of between 5-7 hours, with up to 1000m (3300 Centre based, staying in one, feet) ascent/descent in the day. Mountainous or rough two or three guest houses paths, with some long steep sections. There could be with circular day walks limited back-packing, carrying overnight gear for 1 night. You should have recent experience of day A mixture of centre based walking in hilly terrain, be surefooted and have a reasonable level of fitness. On some holidays a good circular day walks and head for heights and previous mountain walking experience may be necessary. moving between guest CHALLENGING houses 11 Walks of between 5-8 hours, with altitude gains of over 1000m per day involving prolonged ascents/descents. Mountainous paths with sections of rough mountainous terrain and easy scrambling (using hands for stability and assistance). These holidays may be made more difficult by factors such as altitude, limited backpacking or the occasional very long day. You should be a regular walker with mountain walking experience, with a good level of fitness and a good head for heights.10 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

Holiday Diary 2018January March MayThought the Alps in winter was all The Calanques National Park on The height of spring is a great timeabout skiing? Well, think again. If the Provence coast is an ideal early to visit the stunning waterfalls andyou’re a group of between 4 and 8 spring break. Enjoy stunning dramatic gorges of the Jura or thelooking for some winter sun and scenery and views where impressive panoramic landscape of the beautifulwonderful landscapes, why not try cliffs surround wonderful drowned Beaujolais region and taste theirsnow shoeing in the Alps. We have valleys. Tip: If you are looking for contrasting wines. See pages 46, 48guided holidays for novices as well quiet trails and empty beaches, and 15-18.as those looking for something more March is a great month to choose,challenging. See website for details. with only the first week coinciding with French school holidays. See page 26.February April European Museum Night in France, where closing time of theWhy not jet off to southern Spain for Spring truly gets under way in all museums is postponed to aboutsome warm winter sun. Walk in but the higher altitudes. If you’re 1am, allowing the public to visit byAndalucia in the beautiful Grazalema looking for warm weather, quiet night, for free and see theirNational Park & visit the extraordinary trails and stunning medieval villages collections in a different, unusualvillage of Ronda. Or walk in the Sierra then why not take a look at either of and more sensory way.Nevada and visit the treasures of the our moderate walking holidays inhistoric Alhambra Palace in Granada. the Luberon in Provence or the May is an ideal time to walk theSee page 56. Tarn in south west France. See Catalan coast. We have 2 holidays: pages 29, 43 & 44. Pyrenees Coastal Trail between France and Spain, followed by the Costa Brava where sea breezes make it pleasant walking. Page 25. June In the UK 25th June—1st July Chalke Valley History Festival is the largest festival entirely dedicated to history in the UK. Located at Broad Chalke in Wiltshire, it has a combination of speaker events and living history entertainment, including combat displays and interactive experiences as well as a series of air displays with historic aircraft across the weekend. See Wessex walk Page [email protected] 11

Holiday Diary 2018June July SeptemberAs summer arrives so the mountain- Tour de France 2018 will be the In the UKous regions of France shed their 105th edition of this most famous 30 Aug–2 Sept End of the Roadwintery coat, whilst at lower cycle race. The race begins in the Music Festival is a small festivalaltitudes, it’s time to take advantage Vendee and finishes, as it has done with a relaxed and friendlyof the sunshine before it gets too for the past 40 years, on the atmosphere. The beautiful pleasurehot. For example, it would be an Champs-Elysees in Paris. The tour gardens at Larmer Tree on theideal time to visit the Baronnies will visit the heart of Brittany, the Wiltshire-Dorset border, form anwhere in this beautiful part of Pyrenees and the Alps. ideal place to create a woodlandProvence the lavender is coming into wonderland, strewn with artflower. See page 28. Avignon Festival is one of the installations and decorated spaces. biggest international festivals for 13–16 Sept are National HeritageJune is a great time to visit the contemporary live performance Days in England. DiscoverMassif Central in central France. featuring theatre, dance, art and architectural treasures & a wideThe mountain pastures are coated in music. range of events & activities thatlush green grass and a stunning bring local history to life.array of wild flowers including Augustorchids and gentians. We have a Octobervariety of destinations from the Mid June until mid September is themountains and volcanoes of the season for walking in the high moun- A great time to visit the wineSancy and Cantal ranges in the tains of the Alps and Pyrenees. growing regions of France. AutumnAuverge to the immense plateaux Each region has its own specific colours turn the vineyards into aof the Haut Loire and the wild and character. See pages 30—40. patchwork of oranges and reds.rugged ridges of the Ardeche. Seepages 49 to 53. For 2018 we have a new alpine trekking holiday which tours theJuly imposing Mont Viso in Italy. If you are looking for an off-the-beatenThe perfect time of year to visit the track experience with dramaticFrench Alps. In our walking holiday mountain scenery, small friendlyin the Queyras, you can reach sum- huts and challenging walks taking inmits of around 3000m for wonderful panoramic peaks then this is the trippanoramic views. See page 36. for you. See page 34. September November September is generally a good time Beaujolais Nouveau Day. There of year to visit wine growing regions, are over 120 related festivals held such as Burgundy and Beaujolais, every year in the Beaujolais region if you are interested in the sites, alone. The most famous is Les Sar- sounds and smells of wine picking mentelles, in Beaujeu. The 5 day (vendange). Pages 15-23. festival features wine-tasting, live music and dancing.14 July is the French National Day(Bastille Day) commemorating the Decemberbeginning of the French Revolutionwith the Storming of the Bastille as Fete des Lumieres. Lyon's Interna-well as the Fete de la Federation tional Light Festival sees the citywhich celebrated the unity of the awash with lights for 4 days inFrench people. Celebrations are held December.throughout France.12 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

Walking Holidays in France 54 55 47 EVENTS CALENDAR 46,48 23 39 19-21 43 15-18 39 22 34Detailed contents listing 49,53 51 35 37overleaf 52 41 50 27 32,36 34 45 24 28 33 41 29 39 42 40 38 43-44 26 30 31 30 25Beaujolais & Burgundy Provence & Mediterranean South West FranceBeaujolais Wine Trails: Grand Crus and Secret Provence: Tour of Baronnies 28 Historic Dordogne Trails: Delights ofChateaux & Medieval Villages 15 Luberon: Classic Provence 29 Historic Dordogne 41Beaujolais Medieval Village Tour 16 Panoramas of Provence: Tour of Luberon 29 Villages of Correze 41Lyon’s Beautiful Secluded Hills 17 Pyrenees Serene Lot Valley Trail 42Beautiful Beaujolais Trail 18 Pyrenees Trails: Cerdagne Explorer Tarn’s Medieval Bastides 43 Pyrenees Trails: Azun ValleyHigh Beaujolais Hills 18 Traversing the Pyrenees National Park 30 Historic Villages & Valleys of Tarn 44 30Chardonnay Wine Trail 19 31 Bordeaux Classic Wine Trail 45Secret Burgundy Trails: The Monk’s Trail; Eastern FranceChardonnay Vines & Historic Villages 20 Alps Jura Wine Trail 46Beautiful Brionnais: Secret Hills of Tour of Queyras: An Alpine Secret 32 Alsace: Vineyards & Mountains 47Burgundy & Brionnais Explorer Tour of Ubaye: Hidden Alps 33 21 Grand Tour of Ubaye : 3 Regions Tour 33 Jura Discovery: Wine Trails & 48 Trekking Tour of Vanoise 34 Medieval VillagesBeaujolais Discovery 22 Trekking Tour of Viso (Italy) 34 Panoramic Vercors 35 Massif CentralBest of Medieval Burgundy 23 Queyras: Best Kept Secret in the Alps 36 Les Ecrins: Panoramic Alpine Trail 37 Amazing Auvergne 49Provence & Mediterranean Alps to Med Trail 38 Alpine Adventure: Lake Geneva to Nice 39 Cantal Mountains 50Côte du Rhône Wine Trail Travels Through Alpine Provence 40Pyrenees Coastal Trail 24 Tranquil Auvergne Trail 51Costa Brava, Spain 25French Fjords: Calanques National Park 25 Tour of Ardeche: Rustic Trails 52Historic Hill-top Villages of Drome 26Provencale Summit of Auvergne: Sancy Tour 53 27 Brittany & Normandy Brittany’s Granite Coast 54 Brittany’s Emerald Coast 55 [email protected] 13

Walking Holidays in France, Spain, Italy & the Destination Guided Self Level N° nights Dates Page BEAUJOLAIS & BURGUNDY ✓ ✓/✓✓ 5 MAMJJASO 15 ✓ ✓✓ 6 MAMJJASO 15 Beaujolais Wine Trail: Grand Crus ✓✓ ✓✓ 5 or 7 MAMJJASO 16 Beaujolais Wine Trail: Chateaux & Medieval Villages ✓ ✓✓ 5 or 7 MAMJJASO 17 Beaujolais Medieval Village Tour ✓ ✓✓ 7 MAMJJASO 18 Lyon’s Beautiful Secluded Hills ✓ 7 MAMJJASO 18 Beautiful Beaujolais Trail ✓ ✓✓/✓✓✓ 6 MAMJJASO 19 High Beaujolais Hills ✓ ✓✓ 5 or 7 MAMJJASO 20 Burgundy: Chardonnay Wine Trail ✓ 6 MAMJJASO 20 Medieval Burgundy: The Monk’s Trail ✓ ✓/✓✓ 21 Secret Burgundy: Chardonnay Vines & Historic Villages ✓ ✓✓ 7 MAMJJASO 21 Beautiful Brionnais: Secret Hills of Burgundy ✓ ✓✓ 7 MAMJJASO 22 Brionnais Explorer ✓ ✓✓ 7 AMJJASO 23 Beaujolais Discovery ✓✓ 7 AMJJASO Best of Medieval Burgundy ✓✓ 24 25 PROVENCE & MEDITERRANEAN ✓ ✓✓ 6 or 9 AMJ SO 25 26 Côtes du Rhône Wine Trail ✓ ✓✓/✓✓✓ 6 FMAMJ SO 27 Pyrenees Coastal Trail: Collioure to Cadaques 28 Costa Brava: Cadaques to Llafranc ✓ ✓✓ 6 AMJ SO 29 French Fjords: Calanques National Park 29 Historic Hill-top Villages of Drome Provencale ✓ ✓✓/✓✓✓ 4 or 5 MAM ON Secret Provence: Tour of the Baronnies 30 Luberon: Classic Provence ✓ ✓✓/✓✓✓ 7 or 8 AMJJASO 30 Panoramas of Provence: Grand Tour of Luberon 31 ✓ ✓✓/✓✓✓ 7 AMJ SO 32 ✓ ✓ 7 AMJ SO 33 33 ✓ ✓✓/✓✓✓ 12 AMJ SO 34 34 PYRENEES ✓ ✓✓ 6 JJAS 35 ✓ ✓✓/✓✓✓ 6 JJAS 36 Cerdagne Explorer: Lakes, Mountains & Hot Springs ✓ ✓✓✓ 7 JJAS 37 38 Pyrenees Balcony Trail: Azun Valley 39 40 Traversing the Pyrenees National Park 41 FRENCH & ITALIAN ALPS ✓ ✓✓✓ 8 JJAS 41 42 Tour of Queyras: An Alpine Secret ✓ ✓✓✓✓ 6 JJAS 43 Tour of the Ubaye: Hidden Alps 44 ✓ ✓✓✓✓ 8 JJAS 45 Grand Tour of Ubaye: 3 Regions Tour Trekking Tour of the Vanoise ✓✓ ✓✓✓ 6 or 7 JJAS 46 Trekking Tour of Viso 47 Panoramic Vercors ✓ ✓✓✓✓ 7 JJAS 48 Queyras: Best Kept Secret in the Alps ✓ ✓✓✓✓ 6 or 8 JJASO 49 Les Ecrins: Panoramic Alpine Trail 50 Alps to Med Trail ✓✓ ✓✓✓ 7 JJAS 51 Alpine Adventure: Lake Geneva to Nice 52 Travels Through Alpine Provence (parts 1 & 2) ✓ ✓✓✓ 5 or 6 JJAS 53 ✓ ✓✓/✓✓✓ 7 AMJ SO 54 JJASO 55 ✓ ✓✓✓/✓✓✓✓ 6-24 56 ✓ ✓✓✓ 5-13 AMJ SO 56 SOUTH WEST FRANCE ✓ ✓ 7 AMJJASO 57 ✓ 58 Delights of Historic Dordogne ✓ ✓✓ 5 or 7 AMJJASO 59 Quieter side of Dordogne: Villages of Correze 60 Serene Lot Valley Trail ✓ ✓✓ 7 AMJJASO 61 ✓✓ 62 Tarn’s Medieval Bastides ✓✓ 7 AMJJASO Historic Villages & Valleys of the Tarn ✓ Bordeaux Classic Wine Trail ✓✓ 7 AMJJASO ✓ 6 or 7 AMJJASO NORTH EAST FRANCE ✓ ✓✓ 6, 7 or 8 AMJJASO ✓ ✓✓✓ 6 AMJJASO Jura Wine Trail ✓ ✓✓ 7 MJJASO Alsace: Vineyards & Mountains Jura Discovery: Wine Trails & Medieval Villages ✓✓ ✓✓ 7 MJJAS ✓✓ ✓✓✓ 7 MJJAS MASSIF CENTRAL ✓✓ 6 or 7 MJJASO ✓ ✓✓✓ 8 AMJ SO Amazing Auvergne: Volcanoes, Lakes & Historic Villages ✓ ✓✓✓ 5 or 6 MJJAS Cantal Mountains: The Rugged Heart of France ✓ Tranquil Auvergne Trail Tour of Ardeche: Rustic Trails Summit of Auvergne - Tour of Sancy BRITTANY & NORMANDY ✓ ✓✓ 4-9 AMJJASO ✓ ✓✓ 6 AMJJASO Brittany’s Granite Coast Brittany’s Emerald Coast ✓ ✓✓ 7 JFMAMJ SOND SPAIN ✓ ✓✓ 5-12 JFMAMJ SOND Grazalema National Park, Andalucia Alpujarras Valley Walk, Andalucia GREAT BRITAIN In Thomas Hardy’s Footsteps: Heart of Hardy’s Dorset ✓ ✓✓ 9 AMJJASO Wonders of Wessex Walk Dorset Jurassic Coastal Path & Ridgeway ✓ ✓✓ 5, 6 or 7 AMJJASO Cornwall’s Dramatic Northern Coast ✓ ✓✓ 5,7 or 8 AMJJASO West Mendip Explorer: Somerset Heights to Somerset Levels ✓ ✓✓✓ 5 or 6 MAMJJASO Wonderfully Wild: Pembroke’s Northern Coast14 ✓ ✓✓ 6,7 or 8 AMJJASO ✓ ✓✓ 6 MJJAS

BEAUJOLAIS Wine Trails Independent WalkingT he Beaujolais region is famous for its wines and its great hospitality. Our two wine trail walkingholidays let you sample both in equal measure. They arealso delightful walking experiences, traversing thebeautiful and secret hills of the Beaujolais region, homeof wine growers producing 12 AOC wines. A pleasantcombination of rich fruity flavours and more complextraits, makes these French wines unique. You'll get thechance to sample many of them at your guest houses,which are mainly on vineyards, as well as at otherproducers along the way. At the end of each day you'llbe welcomed with open arms at your small, guesthouses where the hospitality is second to none. Yourwalking trails snake their way along secluded valleysand panoramic ridges, far from the tourist trails.Accommodation Beautiful Beaujolais landscapesCharming small bed & breakfasts full of local Daily wine tasting opportunitiescharacter offering an authentic & very comfortable Vines, pretty villages, chateauxstay. They are mainly located on vineyards. Greatlocal hospitality, warm welcome, wonderful 11Great local hospitality & wonderful cuisineregional cuisine & wine tasting. Example: Le Fêtreoffers our guests exquisite food, fine Chiroubleswine, and a home from home experience.Walks: day-by-day Northern Trail: Grands Crus Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsDay 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Lyon. Wine tasting at guest house. Grade + orDay 2: Fuissé - Vauxrenard Profile 5 nights, 4 days INDEPENDENT WALKING moving between guest houses. Average:Visit the pretty historic villages of Chasselas, Leynes et Jullié whilst walking 15km, +300m per day. Good paths and coun-through pretty valleys and past the impressive 17th century Chateau de la try lanes. Some paths rough and stony in placesRoche. Wine tasting at B&B: Juliénas, Brouilly, Beaujolais Village. 18km, +550m with odd steeper sectionsDay 3: Vauxrenard - Fleurie Dates Everyday (subject to availability) March - OctPass through the famous vineyards of Chenas and Moulin à Vent where you can What’s Airport and station transfers - Lyon, 5 nights'stop off to try their finest Beaujolais wines, before reaching your guest house at included accommodation. All breakfasts, 3 picnic lunchesFleurie. Evening meal in restaurant in village. 15km, +200m and 4 evening meals. Full walking notes and maps, transport of luggage during walk.Day 4: Fleurie - Chiroubles What’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrivalClimb to the Chapelle de la Madone - great viewing point with amazing views,which on clear days reach all the way to Mont Blanc. Follow a picturesque ridge and departure plus one lunch and one evening meal,to Chiroubles Wine tasting at B&B with great panoramic views. 14km, +370m included any excursions or entrance fees, travel insuranceDay 5: Chiroubles - BeaujeuPass through pretty hamlets, historic chateaux and villages to Beaujeu thehistoric capital of the Beaujolais region. Options to vary the length of walks. Winetasting - Regnie, Beaujolais Village. 15km, +180m. Day 6: Departure - Transfer to Lyon after breakfastWalks: day-by-day Southern Trail: Chateaux & Medieval Villages Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsDay 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Lyon. GradeDay 2: Beaujeu - St-Lager: Pretty countryside climbing the isolated hill of 6 nights, 5 days INDEPENDENT WALKINGMont Brouilly. Famous for its wines, this lofty summit offers great 360° views thendescend to St Lager. Wine tasting: Brouilly, Beaujolais Blanc. 14.5km, +280mDay 3: St Lager - Vaux en Beaujolais: Pass the wonderful Chateau de la moving between guest houses. Average:Chaize before climbing to reach the hilltop village of St Etienne la Varenne for great Profile 16km, +400m per day. Good paths and coun-views. Choice of trails to reach guest house in a superb hill-top setting. 18km +550m try lanes. Some paths rough and stony in placesDay 4: Vaux - Averlys: Choice of routes either past the impressive chateau with odd steeper sectionsMontmelas or going via higher ridges, both with glorious views. Pass chateaux and Dates Everyday (subject to availability) March - Octchapels peppering pretty vine covered valleys. Wine tasting: Beaujolais 18km or 20km,+450m or +700mDay 5: Averlys - Oingt: Visit some of the prettiest villages in the Golden Stones What’s Airport and station transfers - Lyon, 6 nights'region of Beaujolais, starting with Jarnioux, with its 13th century chateau, then the Full Board accommodation. Full walking noteshistoric village of Theizé, before climbing a picturesque ridge to reach the medieval hill-top village of Oingt (one of the prettiest villages in France). 17.5km, +400m. included and maps, transport of luggage during walk.Day 6: Oingt - Chatillon d’Azergues: A choice of trails through gentle vine What’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrival included and departure, wine tasting other than those atcovered slopes to the picturesque villages of Bagnols and Charnay. Descend to the guest houses, any excursions or entrance fees,beautiful village of Chatillon d'Azergues with its hill-top chateau and 12th century travel insurancechapel. Wine tasting (organic wines): selection of the grand crus. 17km, +300mDay 7: Departure - Transfer to Lyon after [email protected] 15

BEAUJOLAIS - Medieval Village TourGuided & Independent T he southern Beaujolais region is known as the “Golden stones country” (pierres dorées), due to the warm colour of the limestone used in its historic buildings. Here, our unique walking holiday will pass through a number of remarkable villages with some of the prettiest villages in France perched on hilly promontories. Wherever you look, you'll find fortified remains, chateaux or churches adorning the vine covered slopes. The scale and gentleness of the slopes has created a sumptuous landscape of interlocking hills receding to the horizon, that literally leaves you with the impression of flying over the hills. This picturesque wine growing area, which is often referred to as the French Tuscany, is one of our most popular holidays. Walks: day-by-dayDay 1: Arrival - Welcome in Lyon and transfer to Beaujolais Beautiful historic villages built from aDay 2: Moiré - Cogny warm golden limestone with medieval chateaux and historic monumentsFrom the pretty hamlet of Moiré your trail climbs onto a picturesque ridge with greatviews that let you discover the region through which you’ll be walking for the week. Beautiful rolling countryside reminiscentDescend to the quaint medieval village of Theizé. After lunch cross secluded valleys toreach your B&B. 16km, +400m of Tuscany providing exceptional views across the vines to the AlpsDay 3: Cogny - Pommiers Varied walking through vines in aToday's trail passes through vines and the beautiful limestone village of Jarnioux with itsamazing towered chateau (possibility to visit chateau). Your walking trail then climbs to quiet area, famous for its wine andthe lovely ridge-top village of Pommiers, offering great views of the Beaujolais and the its gastronomic delights. Great localAlps. 15.5km, 360m hospitalityDay 4: Pommiers - Chatillon d’Azergues At a GlanceYour day's walk climbs gently through vines, pasture and forest to the historic ridge top GUIDED / INDEPENDENTvillages of Marcy and Charnay. From here the path descends to the fortified hill-topvillage of Châtillon d'Azergues with its historic chateau and chapel. 14km or 17km +200m Price: See Price ListDays 5: Chatillon d’Azergues - St Verand Grade:You’ll start with a visit of Chatillon, including its 12th century chapel, before climbing out Profile:along a ridge to reach the historic village of Bagnols with its impressive chateau, historicdwellings and great views. The walking trail then follows a former railway line descending Dates: March Octoberto the village of Bois d'Oingt before traversing the forest of Flachere to reach your nextguest house on an organic farm. 20km, +340m AccommodationDay 6: St Verand - LetraAn easier day takes you along a ridge offering great panoramic views of the hilltopvillages on the opposite side of the valley, before descending to the small and quainthistoric centre at Ternand, once an important fortified outpost for the Lords of Lyon. Aftercrossing the Azergues Valley, the route climbs to the village of Letra before reaching yourcharming guest house. 13km, +360mDay 7: Letra - MoiréA great walk to finish your walking holiday in the Golden Stones region of the Beaujolais.You'll climb a secluded valley before reaching the pretty village of Ste Paule overlooking adeep vine covered valley. You'll then follow the GR76 along a balcony trail with fantasticpanoramic views before reaching the hill-top village of Oingt, classed as one of the pretti-est villages in France. Here you can explore its narrow alleyways and admire the amazingviews of the southern Beaujolais from its promenade. Descend to your guest house locatedon a vineyard in the pretty village of Moire. 18km, +420mDay 8: Departure - Transfer to Lyon after breakfast Price p/p See Price List or Web Site for details 6 charming guest houses full of local character (3 or 4 corns 5 Night version also available quality) offering an authentic and very comfortable stay. Great Walking 6 walks moving between guest houses, averaging about 16km with hospitality and local cuisine. Profile limited ascents and descents, good paths, although some rough and Example: Clos Pomeirs is a stony sections. Average daily ascent is 325m. This holiday can be charming, renovated stone made easier by opting for a rest day. property with great views & pool. Holiday Starts every day of week subject to availability. 7 nights: 6 days Profile independent or guided walking moving between guest houses. Also available as a 5 night holiday with 4 walking days What’s Airport and station transfers from Lyon, 7 nights' accommodation. included All breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches and 6 evening meals. Full walking notes and maps or guiding, transport of luggage between guest houses. What’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrival and departure included plus one evening meal, any excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance16 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

Lyon’s Beautiful Secluded HillsT he Mont Lyonnais are a series of beautiful Independent Walking rolling hills rising to the west of Lyon, France’s second city. Less well-known than theneighbouring Beaujolais hills, this hidden countrypresents a picturesque rural scene where vines arereplaced by a patchwork of lush grazing land, cherryorchards and forested tops. You have the choicebetween a 6 day traverse or a 4 day circular trail todiscover these inviting, off the beaten track hills. Thewalking is reasonably gentle as you progress southfrom the Beaujolais to the edge of the Côtes du Rhonevines. At times you’ll follow the long distance GR 7trail and at others you’ll discover wonderful localpaths following pretty valleys or panoramic ridges.Walks: day-by-day Day 1: Arrival: Welcome, transfer to Mont Lyonnais Quiet and undiscovered trails a shortDay 2: Sain Bel - Forgeux distance from the Gastronomic capital of FranceA delightful walk between two wonderful guest houses. Climb through pasture and orchardsonto the Lyonnais hills. A chance to summit Mont Popey overlooking the Turdine Valley Beautiful and secluded hills dotted withbefore a great ridge walk that descends to St Forgeux and your accommodation. 17km,+600m sturdy farms and picturesque villages built from graniteDay 3: Forgeux - Villecheneve Far reaching panoramic viewsA remote and more wooded walk as you approach the highest summits between theBeaujolais and the Loire Valley. Rustic sturdy farms are scattered across the green A variety of guest houses with greatlandscape as you spend most of the day above 700m in rural tranquillity with great views.Your accommodation is on a lovely old farm built from granite. 12km or 16km, +500m or character and hospitality+630m AAt taaGGlalnanceceDay 4: Villecheneve- Brullioles PGrUicIeD:ED / IN£D4E8PE5NDENTContinue south on the GR7 through lush green rolling hills to reach the historic hill-topvillage of Montrottier. Traverse across the slopes of Mont Pothu and descend to your hotel in GPrraicdee:: See Price Listthe village of Brullioles. 17km, +380m PGrroafdile:The 4 day circular trail heads back towards Sain Bel the next day as you climb throughcherry orchards,which are a hive of activity in early June, to bring you back into the hills Dates: March Octobercovered in pasture. Follow a picturesque ridge with great views until you descend to the Profile:pretty village of Courzieu. Short transfer to your guest house. 16km, +430m Dates: April OctoberDay 5: Brullioles - YzeronContinue south on the GR7 passing through the Brevenne Valley. After, climb through cherryorchards to bring you back into the hills covered in pasture with magnificent views. You’llthen reach the small village of Yzeron perched on the edge of the hills which plunge towardsLyon. 15km, +640mDay 6: Yzeron - RiverieFrom Yzeron your trail traverses the hills with views towards Lyon and the Alps. Then climbto join the GR7 and reach the historic site of Rochefort. A short walk then takes you to thelarge village of St Martin en Haut. The hills become more gentle as you climb to almost1000m on the edge of the Lyonnais Hills where pasture and fields give way to steeperwooded slopes. Below these, the fruit orchards spread out towards the Rhone Valley. Yourday finishes in the pretty hill-top village of Riverie and your beautiful guest house. 22km,+610mDay 7: Tour from RiverieA beautiful walk from Riverie with great views towards Mont Pilat. After reaching Ste Cathe-rine you’ll climb up onto the edge of the plateau. By staying close to the edge you’ll havegreat views before turning north to reach an isolated chapel. You’ll then follow an easy trailtraversing the valley slopes with typical views across the Mont Lyonnais. 15km, +350m Day 8: Departure Transfer to Lyon after breakfastPrice P/P See Price List or Web Site for details. Additional optional Accommodation night at Rivière. A mixture of small guest houses in historic rural buildings and small country hotels. A mixture of styles and settings with lots ofWalking 4 or 6 walks moving between guest houses. There are different character and warm welcomes. Lovely home-cooked cuisine, Profile walking trail options on some of the days meaning that you can using fresh produce from the region. They are mainly 3 star vary the difficulty. Average length is 17km and 500m of ascent. equivalent in quality offering a comfortable stay. You have the Maximum 22km and 640m. Hills are generally moderate in steep- opportunity to book extra nights at Riverie. ness. Good paths, tracks & small lanes.Holiday Starts every day of week subject to availability. 7 or 5 nights: 6 Example: La Source Profile or 4 days independent walking moving between guest Dorée is a stunning guest house in a What’s Airport and station transfers from Lyon, 5 or 7 nights' accommoda- wonderful houseincluded tion. Full Board. Walking notes and maps, transport of luggage built in 1903 with great panoramic between guest houses. views. Gastronomic restaurant and spaWhat’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrival and departure, on site. Fresh 11 included any excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance produce from their farm. [email protected] 17

Independent Walking Beautiful Beaujolais Trails T here is so much more to the Beaujolais than its famous vineyards. On these two unique walking holidays you’ll discover a region far from the tourist trails with beautiful countryside and quaint villages. Both holidays explore the high Beaujolais, a series of rolling hills summiting around 1000m with breath-taking views. The high Beaujolais is little known, even in France, for its great walks, beautiful scenery and dense network of well kept trails. Except during the busiest holiday days you'll have these wonderful trails all to yourselves. Our Beaujolais traverse then crosses a series of deep valleys and panoramic ridges. Further south you'll pass into the “Golden stones country”, so called due to the warm colour of the limestone used in the buildings. Here, you will find some of the prettiest villages in France, set in a sumptuous landscape of interlocking hills. In the evening you’ll sample the best of the famous Beaujolais hospitality. Accommodation High Beaujolais hills with their deep valleys, 7 nights in delightful small B&B style guest wonderful ridges and beautiful views houses, full of local character where you'll receive a genuinely warm welcome. In the south, wonderful historic villages & Comfortable rooms. Great local cuisine and wine. Full board. At some overnight stops chateaux built from a golden limestone there are no alternative B&B’s available, so please book early to avoid disappointment. 11 Example: Le Monde de Dom Beautiful Beaujolais Trail (traverse) Walks: day-by-day Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsDay 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Lyon.Day 2: Ouroux - Chiroubles: Superb start to the week, with a gentle climb to GradeCroix Rochefort for vast panoramic views. Your guest house is at a wine growers Profile 7 nights, 6 days self-guided walkingproperty with great views. Wine tasting of the Chiroubles cru. 13–21km, +450m between guest houses on a linear trail. The days range from about 14km to 22km & haveDay 3: Chiroubles - Beaujeu: Descend gently through vines and pretty villages daily ascents between 250m & 720m. Upper end of the moderate grade. There are options on ato reach the ancient capital of the Beaujolais, Beaujeu from where the lords of Beaujeu couple of days. The paths are generally good,reigned from the 10th century for over 400 years. Wine tasting. 15km, +280m although they vary greatly in character.Day 4: Beaujeu - Vaux: A day of upland ridges & great panoramic views. Relax Dates Everyday (subject to availability) March - Octand admire the birds of prey gliding in thermals before descending to your beautifulguest house in the village of Vaux with stunning views and heated pool. 22km, +650mDay 5: Vaux - Cogny: Follow a picturesque ridge up onto the higher hills beforeeither following the ridgeline with great views of the Alps, or an easier trail past thefairy-tale Chateau de Montmelas and the picturesque village of Cogny. 21km, +600m.Day 6: Cogny - Moiré: Visit the prettiest villages in the region, starting with What’s Airport and station transfers - Lyon, 7 nights' full included board accommodation. Full walking notes andJarnioux, with its amazing 13th century chateau before following a former railway line tothe historic village of Theizé. Then climb a picturesque ridge to reach the medieval hill- maps, transport of luggage during walk.top village of Oingt (classed as one of the prettiest villages in France). 17km, +400m What’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrivalDay 7: Moiré - Chatillon d’Azergues: Your final day traverses gentle vine included and departure, any excursions or entrance fees,covered slopes to pass the picturesque villages of Bagnols, Charnay and Chatillon travel insuranced'Azergues with its hill-top chateau and 12th century chapel. 16km, +300m Day 8: Departure - Transfer to Lyon High Beaujolais Hills Walks: day-by-day Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsDay 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Lyon. Grade ORDay 2: Ouroux - Propieres: Climb steadily through the pretty Carelle valley Profile 7 nights, 6 days self-guided walkingwith its lush pasture and chateau. After, climb to Mont St Rigaud, which at 1009m is the between guest houses on a circular trail.highest point of the Beaujolais. Descend the secluded Sornin Valley. 22km, +550m Average day about 20km for the more challeng- ing option and 17.5km for the moderate option.Day 3: Propieres - Poules les Echarmeaux: Several options including Some sizeable ascents and descents, although no more than 400m at a time. Average dailyascending Roche d’Ajoux for great panoramic views. Undulating between ridges & quiet ascent is 550m. Paths are generally good,valleys, with old farmsteads little changed for centuries. 12 or 19km, +300 or 400m although some sections are stony and steep.Day 4: Poules les Echarmeaux - Beaujeu: Cross the Azergues Valley, Dates Everyday (subject to availability) March - Octbefore reaching Vernay, a tiny hamlet in a beautiful setting with its remarkable 12thcentury Romanesque church. Descend to Beaujeu, the former capital of the Beaujolais &visit its 11th century church. 19km, +440mDay 5: Beaujeu - Quincié: After taking in views of intimate valleys, where vinesand forests meet, follow a picturesque ridge offering breath-taking views across theBeaujolais and the Alps. 22km, +770m, shorter options are available.Day 6: Quincié - Chiroubles: Explore the vineyards of the lower Beaujolais. On What’s Airport and station transfers - Lyon, 7 nights' included full board accommodation. Full walking notesroute to your welcoming B&B admire a number of chateaux and villages, such as Regnie-Durette, with its impressive double spired church. 15km, +550m and maps, transport of luggage during walk.Day 7: Chiroubles - Ouroux: Climb to the quaint village of Avenas with its What’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrival included and departure, any excursions or entrance fees,lovely 12th century church & rustic stone properties. Follow a high level traverse withgreat views of the Beaujolais from the summit of Croix de Rochefort. 15 - 19km, +540m travel insuranceDays 8: Departure - Transfer to Lyon after breakfast18 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

BURGUNDY: Chardonnay Wine TrailT his short break holiday traverses the southern Independent Walking Burgundy through the heart of the Chardonnay wine growing region. These dry and fruity white wines have their most famous ambassadors in the Pouilly-Fuissé and Saint Véran labels. As well as the wines, this self guided walking holiday also explores a rich landscape full of historic treasures. Medieval chateaux, historic churches and pretty villages are set in beautiful rolling countryside carpeted with vines, pasture and forests. High- lights include the medieval site of Brancion, the chateau of Berzé le Chatel and the village of Berzé la Ville. A number of rocky outcrops punctuate the vineyards such as the celebrated “roche de Solutré” providing exceptional viewing points. Walks: day-by-day Chardonnay wine tasting including theDay 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Lyon. world famous Pouilly-Fuissé labelDay 2: Chardonnay - Brançion Historically rich region with RomanesqueBegin in the pretty village of Chardonnay, home of the Chardonnay grapes and natural churches, beautiful medieval villages andstarting point for our walking trail. Your first day traverses through chardonnay vines chateaux, ancient farmsteads and pre-before reaching your first village en route - Ozenay with its chateau and beautiful 12th historic sitescentury church. You'll then pass through the rustic village of Royer on your way to themedieval fortress of Brancion. This is a remarkable site with the remains of its chateau The medieval cité of Brançion with itsoverlooking the rest of a well preserved hamlet with delightful stone houses, a historiccovered market and a Romanesque church on the hill top edge. 15km, +380m ancient chateau, church & quaint buildingsDay 3: Brançion– Lugny Picturesque countryside & rocky outcropsTo start with you have the choice of heading east to the pretty village of Chapelle sous AAt taaGGlalnanceceBrancion set in a beautiful rolling countryside of pasture and vines. Climb back to theridge and descend through vines to the wine village of Martailly les Brancion. Then pass PGrUicIeD:ED / IN£D4E8PE5NDENTthe beautiful chateau at Cruzille before reaching the village of Lugny. Chance to visit itscooperative wine cellar before climbing to your guest house. 12km - 18km, +300m GPrraicdee:: See Price ListDay 4: Lugny - Igé PGrroafdile: October DParotefisl:e: MarchYou have a choice of several trails to reach your wonderful guest house in a resplendentchateau in the pretty village of Igé. Either follow vine covered valleys or venture into the Dates: March Octoberhills through pretty forests with great views. You'll have the chance to visit the caves atAzé an important site for primitive man, 400,000 years ago as well as containing themost important fossil record of bears in Europe. 14 - 20km, +260m or 370mDay 5: Igé - PierreclosFrom Igé walk through vines and pasture to the imposing chateau at Berzé le Chatel,dating from the 11th century, with its 3 defensive walls and 13 towers. You then visitthe beautiful village of Berzé-la-Ville where the chapel aux moins contains some re-markable frescoes. Continue through vines and rocky outcrops, before reaching thebeautiful 12th century chateau at Pierreclos. Possible guided visit & wine tasting. Yourguest house is in the shadow of the chateau. 15km or 20km, +410m or 560mDay 6: Pierreclos - FuisséA great days walking through the most famous vines of this part of Burgundy - Pouilly-Fuissé. Picturesque countryside and the chance to ascend Roche de Soluté, for amazingpanoramic views from its summit. It’s also the home of one of the most important pre-historic sites in Europe as well as being rich in flora. Guest house at Fuissé located on avineyard. Try their quality Pouilly-Fuissé and Saint Véran wines. 14km, +400mDay 7: Departure - Transfer to Lyon after breakfastPrice P/P See Price List or Web Site for details. AccommodationWalking 5 walks moving between guest houses. There are different walking Six guest houses; with a mixture of Profile trail options on 3 of the days meaning that you can vary the high quality hotels and chambres difficulty. Easier options: average of about 15km with less than d'hôte style accommodation. offering 300m ascent per day, longer options: average 18km and include an authentic and very comfortable some extra ascents. Good paths, tracks & small lanes. stay. They are nearly all in historic properties that have been lovingly Holiday Starts every day of week subject to availability. 6 nights: 5 days restored where you'll be reserved a 11 Profile independent walking moving between guest houses warm & generous welcome and 19 enjoy great home cooked fresh Beaujolais Wine Trail can be booked to follow on at the end cuisine. You have the opportunity of this holiday to book extra nights at your luxury B&B at Fuissé. Example: What’s Airport and station transfers from Lyon, 6 nights' accommodation. Source des Fées is a wonderful included All breakfasts, all picnic lunches and 4 evening meals. Walking guest house & vineyard - wine tasting the famous Pouilly-Fuissé notes and maps, transport of luggage between guest houses. winesWhat’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrival and departure, included 2 evening meals, any excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance [email protected]

Independent Walking Secret Burgundy Trails T he southern Burgundy is a treasure of historic churches, chateaux and farms set in rolling country- side carpeted with vines and forests. These two walks explore this beautiful area either side of the historic town of Cluny, with its quaint streets and historic monuments. In the south a number of rocky outcrops punctuate the vineyards such as the famous “roche de Solutré” providing exceptional viewing points to admire the surrounding countryside. Further north our holiday explores a rich landscape full of historic treasures, including medieval chateaux, historic Romanesque churches, old farms & beautiful villages such as Chapaize, Brançion, Ozenay & Blanot. Both holidays use small delightful guest houses. Accommodation Pretty historic villages little changed in Charming small bed & breakfasts full of local centuries with medieval churches character offering an authentic & very comfortable stay. They are mainly in historic Picturesque landscape of rolling hills & properties that have been lovingly restored where you'll be reserved a warm welcome and secluded valleys with vines & pasture enjoy mouth-watering home cooked cuisine. Example: Source des Fées is a wonderful 11Visit Cluny & its historic monuments guest house on a vineyard in Fuissé. Medieval Burgundy: The Monk’s Trail Walks: day-by-day Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsDay 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Lyon. GradeDay 2: Tournus - Cortambert: Pass through pretty rolling countryside with a Profile 7 nights, 6 days INDEPENDENT WALKING moving between guest houses. Alsonumber of picturesque villages lost in the hills such as Blanot. 20km, +480m available as a 5 night holiday. Average: 18km, +350m per day. Good paths & countryDay 3: Cortambert - Cluny: Visit the secluded village of Donzy le Pertuis, then lanes. Some paths rough and stony in places with odd steeper sectionsfinish your day at the remarkable historic town of Cluny. 14km, +320m Dates Everyday (subject to availability) March - OctDay 4: Cluny - Cormatin: Follow the Grosne Valley with great views to Cormatin What’s Airport and station transfers - Lyon, 7 nights'with its beautiful 16th century chateau and gardens. 18km, +300m included accommodation. All breakfasts, 4 picnic lunches and 4 evening meals. Full walking notes andDay 5: Cormatin - Bresse sur Grosne: A choice of routes passing through maps, transport of luggage during walk.some wonderful medieval villages such as Malay with its remarkable Romanesque What’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrivalchurch, and the pretty town of St Gengoux le National. 17km +150m and departure plus 2 lunches and 3 evening meals,Day 6: Bresse - Brancion: Explore the beautiful villages of Bissy-sous-Uxelles, included any excursions or entrance fees, travel insuranceChapaize & la Chapelle-sous-Brancion. Then climb through delightful countryside ontothe ridgeline and discover the medieval fortress of Brancion. 19km, +300mDay 7: Brancion - Tournus: Pretty landscape of vines and historic wine-makersshelters passing through the timeless villages of Royer and Ozenay. Explore Tournus andits impressive abbey. 18km, +350m Day 8: Departure - Transfer to Lyon Walks: day-by-day Secret Burgundy: Chardonnay Vines & Historic Villages Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsDay 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Lyon. GradeDay 2: Fuissé - Pierreclos: A great days walking through elegant vine covered Profile 6 nights, 5 days INDEPENDENT WALKING moving between guest houses. Average:slopes. Climb to the top of the Roche de Solutré, site of pre-historic activities (dating 18km, +520m per day with one easy day.back 35,000 years and favourite walking spot of former president Mitterand) & with a Good paths (stony in places) and country lanes.rich flora and fauna. Amazing views all the way. 15-23km, +400 - 580m Some steeper sections.Day 3: Pierreclos - Cluny: An interest-packed day. You'll pass by vineyards,pretty villages such as Berzé la ville, two wonderful chateaux, breath-taking ridges andtops and secluded valleys. 17—21km, +560mDay 4: Cluny - Mazille: In the morning, visit the remarkable historic town of Dates Everyday (subject to availability) March - OctCluny before taking a scenic route to Mazille passing through a small intimate landscape What’s Airport and station transfers - Lyon, 6 nights' fullof pasture and copses passing pretty villages & Romanesque churches. 11km, +370m. included Board accommodation except one evening meal. Full walking notes and maps, transport ofDay 5: Mazille - Tramayes: Climb onto a picturesque ridge to reach Tramayes. luggage during walk.in a wonderful location offering great views out over a timeless landscape 15km, +520m What’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrivalDay 6: Tramayes - Fuissé: The ascent from Tramayes is beautiful and secluded and departure, one evening meal, any excursions oras you enter a remote agricultural scene little changed in centuries. Your trail crosses included entrance fees, travel insurancethe highest hills in the area providing stunning panoramic views. Descend to the valleyslopes of the Maconnais vines. Wine tasting at guest house. 19.5km, +535mDays 7: Departure - Transfer to Lyon after breakfast20 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

Beautiful Brionnais: Secret Hills of BurgundyT his unique walking holiday takes place in the Independent Walking Brionnais, a secret region of Burgundy. In the shadow of the high Beaujolais hills, the green and picturesque hills of the Brionnais lead you towards the mighty Loire Valley. With a patchwork of fields, you'll pass from beautiful secluded valleys with babbling streams to open ridges with great panoramic views. This secluded region also has fine architectural treasures to rival some of the more popular parts of Burgundy. Delightful villages, immaculately maintained and decorated with lovely floral displays, harbour remarkable fine Clunisan churches and abbeys, as well as chateaux such as Clayette and Semur-en- Brionnais, one of the prettiest villages in France. Walks: day-by-day Beautiful rolling countryside with a patch-Day 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Lyon & transfer to Brionnais. work of vibrant green fields and hedgerowsDay 2: Clayette - St Christophe-en-Brionnais Great Burgundy hospitality at your lovelyPass through Clayette with its wonderful chateau, before heading west into rolling guest housescountryside. If the weather is fine you can count 17 church towers dotted in the hills andvalleys. Pass through Vareilles, Amanzé and Oyé. 15—24km, +330m Immaculate historic villages with fantasticDay 3: St Christophe-en-Brionnais - Anzy-le-Duc early medieval architectureExplore St Christophe with its 500 year old cattle market. Cross a number of delightful Wonderful views from open ridgesvalleys and ridges & pass through the pretty village Briant adorning a hill top position.Great views as you pass over hills before descending to the beautiful village of Anzy-le- Historic town of Charlieu and the hill topDuc with its priory & church. 21km, +330m village of Semur en BrionnaisDay 4: Anzy-le-Duc - IguerandeVisit the ridge top village of Semur-en-Brionnais, classed as one of the prettiest villages inFrance, with the oldest chateau in Burgundy and a beautiful historic church. Afterwardscross a number of pretty valleys before descending to the pretty village of Iguerande,overlooking the Loire Valley with great views. 14km, +320mDay 5: Iguerande - St Nizier sous Charlieu At a GlancePass through the local vines a mixture of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon gris; in GUIDED / INDEPENDENTdays gone by 4000 hectares here were once covered in vines, witness to the sunny Price: See Price Listnature of the climate in the Brionnais. Great views throughout the day. 19.5 km +300m Grade: Profile:Day 6: Charlieu - Chateauneuf Dates: March OctoberVisit the historic town of Charlieu, & its pretty streets with a mix of stone and wooden Accommodationframe buildings, and its Benedictine abbey where you can admire its gothic cloisters.After, pass through the well preserved perched village of Chateauneuf. 17.5km, +350mDay 7: Chateauneuf - ClayetteHead towards the higher hills which border the Beaujolais region. Beautiful rolling hills ina sleepy rural scene, accompany your climb. Chance to reach the Medieval chapel sittingat 710m on the hill known as Dun. Relax and enjoy the wonderful views. A pretty descenttakes you back to your first guest house near La Clayette. 17 - 22km, +410m or +610mDay 8: Departure - Transfer to Lyon after breakfastCentre-based holiday: Brionnais Explorer - If you would prefer, we alsohave a 2-centre holiday based near Clayette & St Christophe with days walks. Thewalks cover the same areas in days 2, 3, 4 & 7 above and are the same grade.Accommodation is in Chateau Grandvaux (opposite) and the wonderful Chateau dela Chaix at St Christophe. More details on our web site.Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for details 7 nights in a mixture of charming good quality small guest houses in historicWalking 6 walks moving between guest houses. The distances on some days properties. They include chateaux, Profile are relatively long. The days average nearly 18km, with a number of restored farm houses and former wine relatively small ascents during the days cumulating to an average of makers properties. Example: Chateau 330m per day. Some days include options allowing you to increase or de Grandvaux is a unique guest house reduce the level of difficulty. in a 15th century chateau.Holiday Starts every day of the week subject to availability. 7 nights: 6 Profile days independent walking moving between guest houses What’s Airport and station transfers from Lyon, 7 nights' Full Boardincluded accommodation. All breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches & 7 evening meals.What’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrival and departure, 11 included one evening meal, any excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance 21 [email protected]

BEAUJOLAIS DISCOVERYGuided Walking T he Beaujolais region is a series of picturesque rolling hills summiting around 1000m above sea level. Known mostly for its wines, this quiet region has a lot to offer the walker looking for moderate days out and plenty of interest. Despite the relatively gentle nature of their slopes, the scale of the peaks and the depths of the valleys create a landscape of great panoramas and rich contrasts. This guided holiday explores the full range of Beaujolais landscapes from the high hills and ridges to the famous vine covered slopes. You’ll also get to discover the beautiful medieval villages in the southern Beaujolais as well as the grand crus in the north. Chateaux, pretty villages, wine tasting, and great panoramas are all on the week’s menu. Walks: day-by-day Enjoyable walking through beautiful and Day 1: Arrival - Welcome in Lyon & transfer to Beaujolais quiet countryside with exceptional views Day 2: French Tuscany Experience the full range of Beaujolais Gentle stroll through beautiful historic villages in the region of the “Golden Stones”, landscapes including Oingt (classed as one of the most beautiful villages in France), Theizé and Bagnols. Expansive landscapes reminiscent of the Tuscany hills. 16km, +400m A region famous for its wine and its Day 3: Vines & ridges gastronomic delights This walk climbs up through the vineyards near Perréon in a picturesque, secluded valley. Beautiful historic villages & chateaux The ascent finishes on a ridge of protected moorland and pastures providing great panoramic views across the rolling hills. 19.5km, +520m Wonderful panoramic views Day 4: Grand Crus A shorter walk amid the vines that make up the most famous Beaujolais wines. Small hills and ridges allow us to climb above the vineyards and gain great views across the sea of grapes that spread towards the Saône. 12km, +150m Day 5: Jarnioux At a Glance Our trail takes us past a number of chateaux including the amazing 13th century castle at Jarnioux. Follow an old railway line over viaducts and across beautiful valleys lined with vines. Visit the pretty historic villages of Cogny and Cosset. Wine tasting 14km, 350m Day 6: Azergues Valley GUIDED / INDEPENDENT Price: See Price List Discover a number of historic villages, the Azergues Valley and vast panoramic views all Grade: on one walk. You’ll explore the charming hill-top villages of Chatillon d’Azergues and Profile: Charnay, walk along the pretty Azergues River and follow a picturesque ridge-line. 16km, Dates: April to October +300m Day 7: High Beaujolais Hills Explore the high hills and woodland for amazing panoramic views of upland pasture dotted with farms and historic villages such as Avenas with its rustic stone cottages and 11th century church. 17km, +420m Day 8: Departure - Return to Lyon and transfer home Price p/p See Price List or Web Site for details Accommodation Dates March to October You’ll stay in 2 beautiful guest houses or hotels (depending on Walking 6 day walks. The walks average about 15km with some moderate the size of the group). They are Profile ascents onto summits at around 800m. Shorter and longer days will 3 star or equivalent, in historic be alternated. The walks will be adapted to the group’s interests properties offering an authentic and the weather conditions. Paths are generally good, although & very comfortable stay. The they can be stony and rough in places. welcome is warm & generous & the local cuisine is first rate. Holiday 7 nights: 6 days guided day walks staying in two or three Example: Clos Pomeirs is a Profile guest houses. charming, renovated stone property with pool. What’s Airport and station transfers from Lyon, 7 nights' accommodation. included All breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches and 6 evening meals. 6 guided walks What’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrival and departure, included plus one other evening meal, any excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance22 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

Best of Medieval BurgundyO ur guided walking holiday in southern Guided Walking Burgundy explores a rich landscape full of historic treasures. Medieval chateaux such as those at Berzéand Brancion, historic churches and pretty medievalvillages are set in beautiful rolling countryside carpetedwith Chardonnay vines, pasture and forests. A number ofrocky outcrops punctuate the vineyards such as thecelebrated “roche de Solutré” important for its pre-historichuman activity. These landmarks provide exceptionalviewing points to admire the surrounding countryside.The Burgundy region is well-known for its fine wine andgastronomic food, a reputation that is richly deserved. Youwill have plenty of opportunity to sample both duringyour walking holiday. Walks: day-by-day  Walking through pretty historic villages withDay 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Lyon. medieval castles and Romanesque churchesDay 2: Berzé Village & Chateau, Cluny  A picturesque landscape of rolling hills &Gentle introduction to some of the finest historic monuments of the region. Explore the valleys covered in vines and rocky outcropshistoric village of Berzé la Ville with its pretty stone houses decorated with flowers. providing great views as far as the AlpsAfterwards we'll ascend to the top of the Roche Coche for fantastic views, before reachingthe impressive 13th century chateau Berzé le Chatel with its 3 defensive walls and 13  Wine tasting of the local chardonnay andtowers. Return by the chateau des Moines. After, visit the historic town of Cluny, whichgrew up around the Benedictine Abbey founded in 910AD. Enjoy looking around medieval visiting historic monumentsproperties that line the pretty streets. 14km, +280m  Visiting the historic town of Cluny with theDay 3: Roche de Solutré remains of its influential abbeyA great day’s walk which starts by going to the top of one of the most importantlandmarks in the area - the Roche de Solutré, site of pre-historic activities (dating back  Lovely historic guest houses serving great food35,000 years) providing amazing views of the surrounding countryside. After, beautifulwalk through vines and forest. 17km, +400m At a GlanceDay 4: Chapaize GUIDED / INDEPENDENTOur walk starts from Cormatin with its beautiful 17th century chateau. The circuit passes Price: See Price Listthrough undulating countryside of vines and fields to reach the remarkable villages ofChapaize, Ougy and Bissy. Chapaize has a wonderful 11th century church. 17km, +200m Grade:Day 5: Hills around Azé Profile:A wonderful walk which explores the vines around the historic villages of Igé and Azé Dates: April to Octoberbefore climbing gently through timeless landscapes of beautiful pastures and deciduousforests into the hills. Remarkable views on your descent through the vines. 17km, +350mDay 6: BrancionFurther north our walk visits some remarkable villages such as Ozenay and Royer withbeautiful churches and ramshackle cottages. They are set in an undulating landscape ofvines, pasture and forest with secluded valleys. The highlight of the day is visiting the hilltop medieval village of Brancion surrounded by defensive walls. 14km, +300mDay 7: BlanotOur final day's walk explores the upper part of the pretty and secluded Grisson valley.Starting from the historic village of Blanot with its remarkable stone dwellings and itsclunisien church and priory, we’ll ascend to the village of Donzy which seems to date fromanother era, set in a sumptuous landscape. 16km, +280mDay 8: Departure - Transfer to Lyon after breakfastPrice P/P See Price List or Web Site for details Accommodation Date March to October Staying in 2 or 3 small guest houses or charming hotelsWalking 6 day walks. The walks average about 16km per day over undulating (depending on the size of the group). They are 3 star or Profile terrain. Individual ascents and descents are generally no more than equivalent in quality offering an authentic and very comforta- 250m at a time with a maximum of 400m in a day. The days will ble stay often in historic properties that have been lovingly alternate between longer and shorter walks, with plenty of time to restored. Warm welcome and mouth-watering home cooked visit interesting sites on route. The paths are generally good, but can fresh cuisine. Example: Domaine du Vernay is a beautifully be rough and stony in places. restored former vineyard with charming rooms, large grounds, wonderful cuisine & attentive hosts.Holiday 7 nights: 6 days guided walks staying in two or three guest Profile houses What’s Airport and station transfers from Lyon, 7 nights' accommodation. Allincluded breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 four-course evening meals. Wine tasting, 6 days guided walkingWhat’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrival and departure, 11 included plus one evening meal, wine with some meals, any excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance [email protected] 23

Côtes du Rhône Wine TrailIndependent Walking 0 ur Côtes du Rhône Wine Trail explores the eastern side of the Rhône Valley from the Baronnies Regional Park in the north, to the slopes of the impressive rock spires of Dentelles de Dramatic walks around the rocky spires of Montmirail in the south, passing by the foothills of Mont Ventoux. You have the choice between a 5-day or 8-day walk taking in some Dentelles de Montmirail of the most beautiful landscapes in the region as well as the best known of the Côtes du Rhône wines such as Beaumes de Venise Sleepy historic villages perched in dramatic and Vinsobres. You’ll also explore plenty of beautiful historic villages and hamlets along the way, many of which are sheltering settings under rocky towers or perched atop ridges, crowned by impressive castles. The wonderful hill-top village of Grignan is A favourable climate - 300 days of sunshine your starting point for the longer version of the holiday, whilst Vaison la Romain is where the short break holiday begins where per year you can explore its famous Roman remains. Both holidays then circumnavigate the wonderful hills and rocky ridges of Dentelles Visiting the wonderful historic villages of de Montmirail. Grignan, Vaison-la-Romaine and Beaumes Walks: day-by-day de Venise Day 1: Arrival – Transfer to Grignan and explore (8-day walking holiday) Great local cuisine and wines in beautiful Day 2: Rousset-les-Vignes - Venterol guest houses & hotels Transfer to Rousset les Vignes and explore this pretty historic village. Traverse slopes At a Glance between steep forested hills and vine covered slopes where the sandstone has been eroded into strange hills and deep ravines. Reach your beautiful guest house located on a GUIDED / INDEPENDENT vineyard on a historic fortified farm. Wine tasting. 15km +400m Price: See Price List Day 3: Venterol - Visan Grade: Walk through vineyards of the famous Vinsobres Cru with great views towards the Mont Profile: Ventoux. Night at a lovely guest house near Visan. Cote du Rhone Village. 19km +300m Dates: April, May, June, Sept, Oct Day 4: Visan - Vaison-la-Romaine Accommodation Head south crossing the Aygues Valley before passing through the pretty historic villages of Buisson and Villedieu. Climb onto a ridge for great panoramic views before descending to the wonderful town of Vaison la Romain with its Roman remains. 21km, +340m Extra night possible in Vaison la Romaine Day 5: Vaison-la-Romaine - Malaucène This is day 2 (walk 1) of the 5-day holiday (day 1 transfer to Vaison la Romaine) Head into the hills towards the famous Montmirail rock fins. You’ll pass through enclosed vine-covered valleys & reach the wonderful perched village of Crestet. Cross Pas de Loup pass & descend to the historic village of Malaucène below Mont Ventoux. 19km, +590m Day 6: Malaucène - Lafare Head back into the hills passing terraced orchards & the stunning Abbey of St Madeleine before reaching Barroux, a pretty limestone village with its castle on top of the hill. You’ll then explore the wonderful hamlet of La Roque Alric sheltering at the base of a rocky tower before descending to Larafe in a vine covered valley. 17km, +420m Day 7: Lafare - Beaumes-de-Venise Partial rest day possible by heading directly to Beaumes. Otherwise you can take a lovely circular trail via a series of panoramic ridges and the perched hamlet of Suzette with great views of the Montmirail rock spires. Descend to the historic village of Beaumes-de-Venise and its celebrated Cote du Rhône wines. Up to 18km, +500m Day 8: Beaumes-de-Venise - Gigondas After an easy walk through vines above the village of Beaumes you’ll traverse back & forth around the valleys under the towering fins of Montmirail through a pleasant mixture of vines and forest. You’ll then descend to the picturesque historic village of Gigondas, home of one of the 17 Cote du Rhône Crus. Short walk to your wonderful hotel. 12km, +480m Day 9: Gigondas - Séguret A final morning back in the valleys and ridges in the Montmirail hills before reaching the lovely perched village of Sablet its historic alleyways circling the hill top. Easy walk to the fortified village of Seguret which shelters underneath large limestone cliffs. 14km, +440m Day 10: Departure - Transfer to Avignon after breakfast Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for details A mixture of small B&B style guest houses full of character providing wonderful home-cooked meals and charming Dates April to June, Sept to Oct friendly hotels. They are all 3 star or equivalent in quality, & are traditional properties offering an authentic and very Walking 5 or 8 days walking moving between guest houses. Walking on this comfortable stay. They are often in historic properties which Profile holiday is moderate in grade with some longer days, especially on have been beautifully renovated. Mixture of rural and the 8-day walk. The terrain is sometimes stony. Mainly on good village locations. Many have swimming pools. Example: paths, tracks and quiet lanes. Average distances are about 16km B&B Les Tilleuls d’Elisée in a beautiful 19th century house at with about 400m of ascent. Some small sections can be steep. Vaison la Romaine. Maximum altitude is 600m in one day. Holiday 6 or 9 nights: 5 or 8 days independent walking moving between guest houses What’s 6 or 9 nights accommodation with 2 or 4 evening meals & 2 or 4 11 Included lunches. Transfer from Montelimar on 8-day walk and from Avignon on 5-day walk. Transfer on day 2. Transfer after holiday to Avignon What’s not for both walks, luggage transfers, full walking notes and maps. included 3 or 4 lunches, 3 or 5 evening meals, drinks, any excursions or24 entrance fees, travel insurance Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

Catalan Coastal Trails: Pyrenees & Costa Brava Independent WalkingT hese two coastal walks cross Catalonia from Collioure in France to Llafranc in Spain. Our first holiday has themighty Pyrenees mountains as backdrop on one side and theblue Mediterranean Sea on the other. Small historic fishingports made from white-washed houses nestle at the base ofgreen hills covered in vines, orange groves and forest.Secluded rocky bays sit beneath picturesque headlands whichoffer great views. On 4 days of the first walk it is possible tochoose between two different grades of walking routes,making it ideal for those seeking a challenge, as well as thoselooking for an easier holiday.From the beautiful Catalan village of Cadaques you’ll followthe Costa Brava alternating between hilly days with prettyrocky inlets, and easier days passing through bays with lots ofwildlife interest. In addition you’ll discover the ancient Greektown of Ampurias dating from 575BC, the medieval village ofPals and the wooded dunes known as the \"mountains\" ofBegur. These holidays are ideal spring or autumn breaks forpeople looking to escape the summer crowds.Accommodation Superb linear trail & coastline in the Pyrenees with panoramic views across MedA variety of independent and friendly 2 and 3 Varied scenery and beautiful villagesstar hotels on half board basis. Lunches are notincluded in the cost of the holiday but can be Ideal Spring and Autumn break 11ordered from your hotel, the evening beforeyour departure.Pyrenees Coastal Trail: Collioure to CadaquesWalks: day-by-day Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at your hotel in Collioure, a pretty town with its Grade orcoloured facades, 13th century royal chateau and impressive church. Profile 6 nights, 5 1/2 days walking between guest houses. The walks average about 15km. SomeDay 2: Collioure - Banyuls Follow a panoramic trail through the Madeloc with sections are rough and stony with the odd steep section. Choice of 2 routes on 4 days, giving risethe possibility of climbing the Madeloc tower, a look out over the Med. Pretty descent to to 2 different grades. You can choose to do aBanyuls, home of the famous wine. Mod: 4 hrs, +/-500m. Mod/chall: 5 hrs, +/-700m mixture of easier & more challenging days. Moderate: Average 5 hrs & +/-450m. Moder-Day 3: Banyuls - Cerbere Great panoramic views over the Mediterranean. The ate/challenging: Average 6 hrs & +/- 600m.sea along this part of the walk is protected as a marine nature reserve. Last day before Dates 10 Feb to 23 June & 1 Sept to 2 Novembercrossing into Spain. Mod: 4 hrs 30, +/-450m. Mod/chall: 5 hrs, +/-700mDay 4: Cerbere - Llanca Today you'll follow, in part, the Garbet beach, with thesea lapping at your feet and a rich, colourful vegetation. Enjoy the calm as you passbetween small inlets until you reach the port of Llanca. 4hrs30, +/-450mDay 5: Llanca - Port de la Selva A glorious ascent to reach the unique churchof Saint Elena and the imposing 1000-year old monastery Sant Pere de Roda. A prettydescent, views over Port de la Selva. Mod: 4 hrs, +/-550m. Mod/chall: 5 hrs, +/-700mDay 6: Port de la Selva - Cadaques Traverse Cap de Creus Regional Park What’s 6 nights HB accommodation. Full walking notes included and maps, transport of luggage between guestwith stunning, rugged landscapes, making your way to the historic village of Cadaques,with its white-washed houses. Mod: 5 hrs, +/-350m. Mod/chall: 7 hrs, +/-500m houses, taxi transfer on day 7. Day 7: Tour from Cadaques In the morning, discover the Oliguera peninsula What’s not Travel to Collioure, France; all lunches, drinks, included any excursions or entrance fees, travel insuranceand its amazing rock formations. Return by taxi to Collioure, possible stop by theMuseum Dali de Fiueres. 2hrs15, +/-100m Extra night possible at CadaquesWalks: day-by-day Costa Brava: Cadaques to Llafranc Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsDay 1: Arrival – Arrival at Cadaques by car or transfer from Portbou train station. GradeCadaques is a pretty port with narrow streets and traditional white-washed houses.Day 2: Cadaques - Roses Walk around the beautiful rocky peninsulas and inlets Profile 6 nights, 6 days INDEPENDENT WALKING moving between guest houses. Average:of Cap de Creus, and Cap de Norfeu. Finish the day at Roses an ancient Greek city, a 19km, +350m per day. Maximum 22km andseaside resort which mixes antiquity with the ultra-modern. 21.5km, +/-500m 600m ascent. Good paths with some rough and stony ground in places. Days alternate betweenDay 3: Roses - St Pere Pescador Walk around the Bay of Roses, passing hilly terrain walking over headlands and around creeks and easier days.Empuriabrava with its kilometres of navigable canals before passing through theAiguamolis Natural Park protected for its rich fauna and flora. with a large variety of Dates 8 April to 22 June & 2 Sept to 25 Octoberbreeding and wintering birds. Follow the GR92 to reach St Pere Pescador. 19km, +/-35m What’s Transfers from/to train station, 6 nights' halfDay 4: St Pere Pescador - l’Escala A shorter day giving you time to visit the included board accommodation. Full walking notes andmedieval village of Sant Martí d'Empuries, & the ruins of the ancient Greek town of maps, transport of luggage during walk.Ampurias, dating from 575BC. Finish in l'Esala, a pretty fishing port. 12.5km, +/-25m What’s not Travel to Cadaques/Portbou, Spain; lunches,Day 5: l’Escala - Torroella de Montgri Climb to the remains of the castle of included drinks, any excursions or entrance fees, travelthe Lords of Montgri before a beautiful descent to the village of Torroella de Montgrí insurancewhich was once a port, but centuries of silting has left it high and dry. 20km, +/-600mDay 6: Torroella de Montgri - Begur Traverse a beautiful and wild section ofthe Catalan coast before exploring the medieval village of Pals. Then climb onto thewooded dunes known as the \"mountains\" of Begur. 21km, +300m, -100mDay 7: Begur -Llafranc A shorter morning's walk for a last look at the blue Medi-terranean Sea from the spectacular lighthouse Sant Sebastia. Descend to the pretty bayof Llafranc. Transfer to Cadaques or Girona train station. 10km, +250m, [email protected] 25

French Fjords: Calanques National ParkIndependent Walking T his walking holiday explores a unique region of southern Provence where gleaming white limestone forms a stark contrast with the deep blue sky and the turquoise Mediterranean. The Calanques National Park on the Mediterranean coast offers a truly amazing land- scape of fjords where deep valleys have been drowned by the clear blue sea. The rugged and tormented cliffs gleam white, rising high above the sea, forming a stunning and dramatic coastline. You’ll stay four or five nights in the charming and beautiful port of Cassis from where you can access your walks on foot, bus and boat. A variety of walks to choose to explore this stunning region. Walks: day-by-dayDay 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Marseille station and transfer to your guest Wonderful walks exploring thehouse in Cassis. dramatic fjords of ProvenceDay 2: La Ciotat - Cassis Enjoy beautiful secluded beachesTaxi transfer or shuttle buses & train to La Ciotat. From here, follow the cliff top all the enclosed by spectacular cliffs withway to Cassis with superb views and enjoyable walking. The cliffs rise to an amazing azur blue waters399m above sea level with superb views. The arrival in Cassis is spectacular.11km, +580m A pleasant Mediterranean climateDay 3: Tour of Mont Puget & Sugiton Calanques perfect for spring or autumn breaksAfter a short bus trip to Gineste your walking trail takes you on a round circuit overlooking The charming small port of CassisLes Calanques to reach the ridgeline of the Cret de Saint Michel. Glorious views over thecalanque or fjord de Morgiou. A choice of trails depending on the difficulty you wish At a Glancebringing you down to superb coves. After, climb to the Col de la Candelle for amazingviews. Short bus trip back to Cassis. 15km, +750m GUIDED / INDEPENDENTDay 4: Calanques de Cassis Price: See Price ListYour trail stays close to the water's edge as you explore the beautiful inlets of Port Miou, Grade: +Port Pin and Port d’En Vau. Then climb the picturesque valley d'En-Vau & return to Cassisvia the plateau du Mussuguieres and the Pas des Marmots. 13km, +450 mDay 5: Mont de Luminy - Ridges & PortsAfter a short bus trip to Luminy you’ll climb onto the Escampons ridge for stunningpanoramas before descending into the Sormiou Calanques. Pass through a wonderfulsecluded port before another wonderful ridge walk with great and unique views of thecoastline. Descend to the small port and cove of Morigou across the coastline. Climb toMont Luminy summit. 14km, +700mChoice of walksYour walking guide will include other choices of walks, including a longer superb circuitfrom Cassis which takes in the Estret ridge which dominates the eastern Calanques andthe enormous Devenson cliffs. Alternatively from Gineste you can climb to the summit ofMont Carpiagne which at 646m in altitude has exceptional views across the National Park.Day 6: Departure - Transfer to Marseille station after breakfast. Profile: Price p/p See Price List and Web Site for details. Price will be different Dates: See details according to the time of year: : March, Oct & Nov being the cheapest, followed by April with May, June & Sept being the Accommodation most expensive. Prices available for 4 or 5 Nights. Dates Every day of week from 1 March - 31 May & 1 October - 30 4 or 5 night's accommodation in a wonderful small guest November. (Also possible 1 - 15 June & 15 - 30 Sept, but house in the heart of Cassis, with swimming pool. there is a higher risk of closure of Paths due to risk of fire) Welcoming host who will take great pleasure in looking after Walking 3 or 4 days independent walking based in a wonderful guest house in you during your stay. Profile Cassis. This holiday is suitable for experienced walkers of an average Example: Villa Astoria fitness (with a minimum of preparation). You should be used to walking on a variety of paths and be comfortable on rocky & steep ground. The paths are mountainous in character and sometimes challenging but the distances involved are generally moderate. Walking days can be varied according to your wishes. Walks average about 5-6 hours and the amount of ascent in the day varies between 200m and 750m. Holiday 4 or 5 nights: 3 or 4 days independent walking - centre Profile based - Starts every day of the week subject to availability. Included 4 or 5 nights' B&B accommodation; full walking notes and maps, transfer from Marseilles train station. Extra for Marseille airport What’s not Travel to Marseilles, France; lunches, and evening meals, entrance fees, included bus, boat and taxi transfers to some walks, travel insurance.26 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

Historic Hill-top Villages of Drome ProvencaleT his unique walking holiday traverses the Drome Independent Walking Provencale from north to south, exploring variedand beautiful landscapes linked by several stunninghistoric perched villages. Starting in Crest in the DromeValley you’ll pass through scented lavender fields,secluded woods, vines of the Cote du Rhone and finallythe olive groves of Nyons in the Baronnies.This is a region of quiet picturesque hills nestledbetween the Alps to the north and the Provence to thesouth, where your undulating trail has superb views ofthe surrounding mountains. Your delightful guesthouses, five of which have swimming pools, mean youcan relax and indulge yourself after your day’s walking.Walks: day-by-dayDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at your first guest house in Crest. Explore this pretty town, A unique linear trail through a beautifulhome of the highest dungeon tower in France. landscape of rolling hillsDay 2: Crest - Saou Relatively quiet part of France with manyYour first day’s trail climbs away from the Drome Valley, exploring rich woodland and stunning perched, historic villagesundulating farmland. You’ll then traverse underneath the craggy tops of Roche Colombebefore entering the pretty village of Saou at the spectacular and narrow entrance to the A multitude of landscapes & vegetationSaou Valley, an enclosed gorge, overlooked by towering limestone cliffs. 20km +650m with lavender, vines, olives & forestDay 3: Saou - Bourdeaux A warm and sunny climateModerate option passes through the pretty villages of Francillon and Poet Celard. After aclimb through picturesque farmland, descend to the beautiful perched village of Bourdeaux Delightful guest houses full of character,surrounded by lavender fields. Challenging option climbs steeply to reach the summit ofGrand Pomerolle for amazing views of the Saou gorge. A ridge walk brings you to Porte de five with swimming poolsBarry from where it’s a beautiful descent to Bourdeaux, as lavender fields start to appear.Mod: 17km, +400m, Mod/chall: 22km, +950m. At a GlanceDay 4: Bourdeaux - Poet Laval GUIDED / INDEPENDENTExplore the perched village of Bourdeaux, before making a detour to its Chateau ruins. The Price: See Price Listtrail undulates through a patchwork of forest and lavender fields, with great panoramic Grade: orviews, before reaching the historic village Dieulefit, famous for its pottery. Your day ends atthe magnificent historic village of Poet Laval, one of the prettiest in France. 19km, +650m Profile:Option of extra day in Poet Laval with rest day or extra walk +18km, +600m Dates: *April, May, June, Sept, OctDays 5: Poet Laval - TaulignanToday’s walk climbs a pretty ridge with great views back towards Poet Laval to reach thesummit of Mont Rochas which at about 900m provides wonderful views in all directions.You’ll then descend through forest before emerging onto the vine and lavender coveredslopes which surround the beautiful village of Taulignan. 18km +590mDay 6: Taulignan - VenterolExplore the medieval walled village of Taulignan. After, you’ll traverse slopes between steepforested hills above and vine covered slopes below. Explore the small perched villages ofPegue and Rousset-les-Vignes before reaching your beautiful guest house located on avineyard on a historic fortified farm. Wine tasting. 20km, +340mDay 7: Venterol - NyonsExplore the historic perched village of Venterol before traversing valley slopes, as vines giveway to the famous olive groves of Nyons. A more challenging option is available climbingonto the Montagne des Vaux to follow its ridge top with wonderful panoramic views. Yourholiday ends at the historic town of Nyons, which has a Mediterranean feel and is bathed inthe smell of lavender. Mod: 11km, +140m, Mod/chall: 17km, +500m Day 8: Departure - Holiday ends after breakfastPrice p/p See Price List or Web Site for details Accommodation Extra night can be added at Poet Laval 7 nights accommodation in delightful, quality guest houses, in historic properties whichDates *1 April - 6 July & 24 August - 31 October. have been beautifully renovated, five with swimming pools. Charm and originality. GreatWalking 6 days independent walking moving between guest houses. This holiday hospitality and fine local cuisine. Example: Profile is suitable for most walkers of an average fitness (with a minimum of Domaine Provensol is a beautiful 16th century preparation). You should be used to walking on a variety of paths. The property on an organic vineyard overlooking landscapes are hilly rather than mountainous with the exception of more vines & olives. challenging options. At upper end of moderate grade —average day is 18km with 500m ascent, more for challenging options.Holiday 7 nights: 6 days independent walking moving between guest houses. Starts every day of the week subject to availability. Option ofProfile extra night at Poet Laval.Included 7 nights' accommodation. All breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 evening meals, walking notes and maps, luggage transport between guest houses.What’s not Travel to Crest & from Nyons, France; lunches on arrival & departure included days plus 1 other, 3 evening meals, entrance fees, travel insurance [email protected] 27

Secret Provence: Tour of the BaronniesIndependent Walking O ur unique independent walking holiday in northern Provence explores a remarkably beautiful area known as Les Baronnies. This is a secret and unspoilt corner of France where the Alps meet the Provence with beautiful historic villages clinging to rocky mountain sides decorated in purple lavender flowers. Sheltered by the mountains, its privileged position and distinct climate gives the region a remarkable light that draws you into its rugged and beautiful landscapes. It is also a region where wild Thyme, Lavender, herbs and pine produce a wonderfully scented landscape. There are a large number of well preserved fortified medieval villages clinging to steep hillsides established by barons in the 11th century. Their towers, walls and alleyways are now altered by historic events that have marked the region. The double influence of the Alps and the Mediterranean has created an exceptionally rich fauna and flora and the region has been designated a Natural Regional Park. Walks: day-by-day Day 1: Arrival – Welcome at your hotel in Sault. Unspoilt beautiful landscapes, quiet trails Day 2: Sault - Montbrun les Bains and varied walking through scented lavender fields, fruit orchards, wild scrub Follow the edge of the lavender plateau to reach the medieval village of Aurel. After and forests exploring its pretty streets walk to Montbrun les Bains, a beautiful historic village perched on the hillside (classed as one of the prettiest villages in France). 14km, +400m Sleepy historic villages, unaltered for Day 3: Montbrun les Bains - Lahonas centuries perched on rocky slopes Today's walk takes you up on to the craggy hills by following some narrow valleys, A favourable climate with 300 days of reaching the Col de la Bohémienne with its rocky slopes and ravines. You'll contour around the edge of the ravines with great views, to reach the small perched village of le Poêt en sunshine per year Percip, before climbing to reach a ridge with great views. 20km, +750m At a Glance Day 4: Rest day or tour from Lahonas GUIDED / INDEPENDENT Those opting for a rest, can relax by the pool with great views of the surrounding hills. For those looking for an extra day’s walking there are two options - a moderate trail through Price: See Price List lavender around the rocky summit of Fort de Mevouillon, or a challenging walk through Grade: or delightful countryside to the historic village of St Auban sur l'Ouvèze. After, climb onto a picturesque ridge offering amazing views. 17km & +380m or 19km, +650m Profile: Dates: April, May, June, Sept, Oct Day 5: Lahonas - Barret de Lioure Your trail takes you onto the slopes of the Montagne du Buc. At the Col des Aries, there is the option of going to its summit for exceptional panoramic views. Otherwise, the route descends to reach the upper end of a beautiful valley, with views towards Montbrun les Bains and Mont Ventoux. Moderate: 14km, +360m, Mod/chall: 20km, +770m. Day 6: Barret de Lioure - Ferrasieres From your guest house, it is possible to climb to the summit of Montagne de Bergies. The moderate trail goes direct to the Col de la Croix Blanche for great views of the Alps. Your walk then descends to reach the lavender plains of Ferrassiers. Stay on a lavender farm. Moderate: 14km. +350m; Mod/chall: 19km, +730m Day 7: Ferrasieres - Sault Your last day is a fairly gentle end to the week. You'll cross undulating countryside which alternates between lavender fields and forest and passes through the tiny hamlet of St Trinit with its historic buildings. Return to the historic village of Sault. 14km, +120m. Day 8: Departure Holiday ends after breakfast See web site for details of our other holidays in the Baronnies: tailor-made centre- based self-guided Baronnies Explorer, Guided centre-based walking, and part 1 of our Alpine Provence traverse (see page 40) Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for details Accommodation Walking 6 days walking moving between guest houses. Graded as moderate Charming guest houses full of character. Exquisite Profile or moderate/challenging depending on your choices. The moderate traditional properties offering an authentic and very grade has average distances of 14km with 350m of ascent. There is comfortable stay in B&B style guest houses. Small 2* hotel one rest day and one longer day at 20km with 760m of ascent. The in Sault. Peaceful locations, 2 with swimming pools where more challenging grade includes the options of ascending two the welcome is warm and generous. summits and doing a walk on the rest day. Due to the nature of the Example: You’ll stay 2 nights at La Honas - a restored landscape some small sections can be relatively steep & it would be farm in a great setting, serving wonderful food. unwise to do this holiday if you suffered from vertigo. Paths are generally good and well defined, although they can be rough in places. Holiday Starts every day of week during April, May, June, September and Profile October, subject to availability. 7 nights: 6 days independent walking moving between guest houses What’s 7 nights' Full Board accommodation. Full walking notes and maps, included transport of luggage between guest houses.What’s not Travel to Sault, France (accessible by public transport or taxi); 11 included lunches on the day of arrival and departure, drinks with some meals, any excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance28 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk11

Panoramas of Provence: Grand Tour of LuberonT his unique walking holiday undertakes a beautiful circuit Independent Walking around the hills, gorges and historic villages of the LuberonRegional Park. As well as visiting some of the best known sitesand villages such as Gordes, Lacoste and St Saturnin lès Apt,your trail takes you off the beaten track into the higher hills andthrough some less frequented, charming hamlets and villages.This two week tour is also available as a 7 night holiday calledLuberon: Classic Provence. On most of the days you’ll have theoption between a moderate or a more challenging day’s walk,meaning it is suitable for those looking for a fairly relaxed walk-ing holiday as well as those seeking a tougher walking trip.Each night you’ll stay in wonderful guest houses where you canrelax and enjoy the Provence sunshine. Walks: day-by-day A unique circular trail exploring the fullDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at your first guest house in Gordes. range of landscapes in the LuberonDay 2: Tour from Gordes: Choice of walks depending on your interests and length Stunning historic hill-top villagesof walk desired. Explore the historic perched village of Gordes - probably the most famous A multitude of landscapes & vegetationvillage in the Luberon - and undertake a circular walk via Abbaye de Sénanque, built in1148. You can choose to extend the walk via the village des Bories (restored museum of the with lavender, vines, olives, orchards &dry stone shelters found in the region) & Semacole gorge. 12-17km - +250/+450m forestDay 3: Gordes - Goult: From Gordes your walk passes through vines and then Choice of difficulty of walks on most daysthyme and rosemary scented hills to reach the perched village of Goult, a wonderful historic Delightful guest houses full of character,village far less popular than Gordes but nonetheless charming, its alleyways curled aroundthe ruins of its castle. 14km +240m most with swimming poolsDay 4: Goult - Bonnieux: Your trail takes you off the beaten track with typical At a GlanceLuberon charm: tiny hamlets, vineyards, an ancient church, bories, and amazing views. You GUIDED / INDEPENDENTwill also visit the beautiful perched village of Lacoste, where you can climb on cobbledstreets and visit the ruins of its castle. You then make your way to Bonnieux, another Price: See Price Listwonderful Provence village. 14km, +390m Grade: orDay 5: Petit Luberon & Cedar Forest or rest day: After exploring Profile:Bonnieux climb onto the Petit Luberon hills for stunning views and a walk through its Cedar Dates: April, May, June, Sept, OctForest. Visit a borie village on the way. You can decide to have a rest day. 14km, +450m AccommodationDay 6: Bonnieux - Boux: Head through olive groves and scrubland with wild herbs Mix of delightful small guest houses into reach the top of the wild and beautiful Aigue Brun Gorge. Your hotel is in a great location historic buildings full of character andat the base of the gorge. 14km +200 m or 20km +530m quality 3 star hotels. Example: DomaineThe 7 night version heads to Roussillon and then finishes with day 12 below. Saint Jean is a wonderful guest house in an old hamlet surrounding a beautifulDay 7: Boux - Saignon: Easy option follows the Aigue Brun Gorge before passing courtyard with heated pool.lavender fields to reach Saignon, whilst the harder option passes Fort de Boux, which is wellworth a visit, before climbing to the grassy ridge of the Luberon hills for great panoramicviews. You’ll then cross the lavender covered plateau south of Apt before a varied walktakes you to the pretty village of Saignon perched on a ridge. 11 -19km up to +750mDay 8: Saignon - St Martin de Castillon: Your trail climbs to a small plateauwhere tiny hamlets nestle among lavender fields & orchards. The easier option traversesthrough vine covered slopes with great views, whilst the harder option climbs to the summitof Mourre Negre, at 1125m, the highest point of the Grand Luberon for vast panoramicviews. A fine ridge walk follows. 14km or 21km, +380m, or +800mDay 9: St Martin de Castillon - Rustrel: Easy option has varied walkingthrough a mixed landscape of forest, orchards and lavender leading to the hill-top hamlet ofCaseneuve, whilst the harder option leads to the historic hill-top village of Viens with itschateau perched on the edge of a rock band. Great views of Gorge d’Oppedette. After, bothoptions explore the wonderful landscapes and colours of the Colorado Provencal where ochredeposits form wonderful towers and fins of rock. Transfer. 16km or 23km, +300m or +450mDay 10: St Saturnin lès Apt: Rest day at your lovely guest house with pool.Day 11: St Saturnin lès Apt - Roussillon: Visit the wonderful hill-top village ofSt Saturnin les Apt, nestled along the base of a long, low cliff, with the ruins of a castleabove. Head west through vineyards and orchards. The harder option climbs to the north tofollow the top of the impressive Madeleine cliffs overlooking the hamlet of Lioux, which are100m high and over 1km in length. Great panoramic views before heading south andclimbing to the pretty ochre coloured village of Rossillon. 19km or 22km, +290m or +600m.Day 12: Roussillon – Gordes: Visit the sentier des ochres before heading westback towards Gordes via the pretty hamlet of Joucas set above the vines. The longer routeheads into the hills to reach the charming hamlet of Mur surrounded by vines and cherryorchards. Your trail descends back to your guest house via the wonderful Vezoule gorge anda beautiful forest. 12km or upto 23km +120m or +440mDay 13: Departure - Transfer to Avignon after breakfastPrice p/p See Price List or Web Site for details. 7 or 12 nights. (Also guided walking available)Walking 6 or 10 days independent walking moving between guest houses. The longer version of this holiday is suitable for walkers seeking both moderate & more challenging walking trips. Walking is on a variety of paths, someProfile steep & rocky in nature. Moderate options average 14km & + 300m, challenging average 20km & + 600mHoliday 7 or 12 nights: 6 or 10 days independent walking between guest houses. Starts every day of the Profile week subject to availability. Included 7 or 12 nights' accommodation. All breakfasts, all except 3 lunches, all except 3 evening meals, walking notes and maps, luggage transport between guest houses, taxi transfer from & to Avignon, station or airportNot Included Travel to Avignon, France; 3 lunches, 3 evening meals, entrance fees, travel insurance [email protected] 29

Pyrenees TrailsIndependent Walking O ur Pyrenees trails walking holidays discover two beautiful and relatively quiet areas of the Pyrenees mountains in southern France. The first explores the Cerdagne, a picturesque plateau, lying at 2000m in the Eastern Pyrenees. It is a delectable landscape scoured and shaped by Ice Age glaciers leaving behind deep ravines, rocky knolls & an array of beautiful mountain lakes, surrounded by alpine meadows and imposing mountains. This self- guided holiday is designed to be accessible and interesting to both occasional hill walkers & experienced trekkers alike in an area reputed for its sunny climate and natural open air warm springs. Our second holiday goes onto the sides of the delightful and luminous Azun Valley where you’ll marvel at the wonderful panoramas and the well preserved mountain villages. Four of the days have both moderate and more challenging options to suit different abilities and as the week progresses you’ll enter the stunning high mountains of the Pyrenees National Park peppered with beautiful lakes, rich green forests, mountain pastures and beautiful lakes. Accommodation  Picturesque & varied Pyrenees landscapes Friendly, family run, two and three star with beautiful mountains & lakes in relatively hotels, some with swimming pools and two quiet areas nights with thermal spa centre in the Cerdagne. Breakfast and evening meals at  Historic sites and well-preserved mountain your hotels. Picnic is not included in the price, but can be ordered from your hosts villages the evening before.  Flexible walking itineraries 11 Walks: day-by-day Cerdagne Explorer: Lakes, Mountains & Hot SpringsDay 1: Arrival – Arrive at Latour de Carol and short transfer to hotel in Angoustrine Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsDay 2: Angoustrine - Saillagouse: Climb to the pretty village of Dorres with Grade +lovely panoramic views. After, pass through the Spanish enclave of Lliva, with typical Profile 6 nights, 6 days independent walking betweentraditional mountain hamlets. Possibility to shorten the day's walk on the yellow train hotels. (2 nights at 2 stops) Walking at upper endfrom Ur to Saillagouse. (6 euros p/p). 4 or 6hrs, +/- 400-450m of moderate grade. Average days: 5 hours & 500m of ascent. Day 2 can be shortened with the yellowDay 3: Saillagouse - Mont Louis: Today, you approach Puigmal, the secondhighest summit in the eastern Pyrenees. Possibility to swim in the natural hot spring atLlo. Finish at Mont Louis citadel, a World Heritage site. 4hrs, +550m, -250mDay 4: Tour from Mont Louis: A short walk along the mythical GR10 (which train. Day 6 can include ascent of Pic Carlit. Despite being in mountains, the walking is relatively gentletraverses the Pyrenees) rising to reach the beautiful mountain pass of Cedeille before & accessible to the average hill walker. Relax intraversing the mountainside and descending the Riberole Valley. Small taxi transfer at natural, warm open air pools & at your hotels.6pm and night at Mont Louis. 5hrs, +550m, -750m Dates 1 June - 25 SeptemberDay 5: Mont Louis - Les Bouillouses: Traverse the citadel designed byVauban and follow a secluded stream to arrive at lake Pradeilla, sheltered below rockysummits. Night in lakeside hotel. 4hrs 45, +500 m ; - 200 mDay 6: Tour from Les Bouillouses: A tour which allows you to enjoy the What’s 6 nights' HB accommodation. Full walking notes & included maps, transport of luggage between hotels, shortvast array of beautiful mountain lakes that decorate this upland plateau encircled byimmense granite peaks. Possibility of ascending the highest summit in the region, the transfer to & from Angoustrine & on day 4.Pic Carlit at 2921m. 2 hrs 40 (or 6 h), +/- 300 m (or +/-950 m)Day 7: Les Bouillouses - Angoustrine: Descent by the Angoust Valley to What’s not Travel to Latour de Carol, lunches, drinks, visits, included travel insurancereach the isolated chapel of Saint Martin d'Envalls. Tour ends on your return toAngoustrine - possible to book an extra night. 4 hrs 30 (or 6 h), + 100m - 700m Walks: day-by-day Pyrenees Balcony Trail: Azun Valley Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at Argelès-Gazost station or Arras. Grade orDay 2: Tour from Arras: Tour from Arras passing by Mont de Gez and thebeautiful Bergons forest. Great panoramic views. 4 hrs 30, 10km +500mDay 3: Arras - Aucun: Climb the Azun Valley by a wonderful balcony trail with 6 nights, 6 days independent walking. 3 lineargreat views over the vast pastures and nearby mountain peak of Cabaliros. The Profile walks & 3 circular walks. Graded as moderate orlandscape is peppered with hamlets, mills and barns among the hay fields. Mod: 3hrs moderate/challenging. Moderate grade: average30, +400m, –230m, 9km; Mod/chall: 5hrs, +700m, -530m, 11km. distances of 12km & 500m of ascent (maxDay 4: Tour from Aucun: Explore the upper reaches of the Bergons Valley with 750m). The more challenging grade is longer & average of 900m. Paths are generally good andthe opportunity to climb the peak du Bergons, which at 2068m has beautiful panoramic well defined, but can be rocky & mountainous inviews. You’ll then pass over several cols under the watchful eye of a vulture or eagle. places. Suitable for average hill walkers, as wellMod: 5hrs 45, +750m, 14km; Mod/chall: 7hrs, +1050m, 15km. as those looking for more of a challengeDay 5: Aucun - Estaing: Change of ambience as you follow the mythical GR10 Dates 10 June - 25 Septemberlong distance trail to approach the high Pyrenees mountains and its National Park. What’s 6 nights' HB accommodation in 2 hotels. FullTransfer back to hotel in Aucun. Mod: 4hrs 30, +500m, -200m, 11km; Mod/chall: 5hrs walking notes and maps, transport of luggage.30, +800m, -500m 12km. included Transfer from station. Several transfersDay 6: Tour from Estaing: Detour into the heart of the Pyrenees National Parkwhere your trail explores a number of high mountain lakes, relics of old glaciations,where you can look out for marmots and Isards (Pyrenees Chamois). Transfer before &after walk. Mod: 5hrs, +500m, 15km; Mod/chall: 7hrs 15, +1100m, 18.5km.Day 7: Estaing - Arras: A pleasant return via the Estaing Valley with great views What’s not Travel to Argelès-Gazost or Arras, lunches, included drinks, any visits, travel insuranceof villages perched on the valley sides. Tour ends on your return to Arras where it’spossible to book an extra night. 4hrs, +250m, -750m, 12km.30 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

Traversing the Pyrenees NationalT his is a wonderful trek through the High Pyrenees, Independent Walking undertaking an almost complete crossing of theWestern Pyrenees National Park. You’ll discover asuperb series of must-see sites with water as your guidefrom the tranquil lakes of Embarrat to the highestwaterfall in Europe at Gavarnie Cirque. The stunninghigh mountains of the Pyrenees National Park are pep-pered with beautiful lakes, rich green forests andmountain pastures which you’ll discover with a lightrucksack, as your bags are transported for you. Parts ofyour traverse follow the legendary long distance trail,the GR10, whilst at other times you’ll follow quiet andremote paths. Walks: day-by-dayDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at Cauterets if arriving by train or at Auberge du Maillet A spectacular traverse of the Pyreneesif arriving by car. National ParkDay 2: Cauterets - Le Clot A series of magnificent, must-see sitesTransfer if you arrived by car. A relatively easy day to start the week. The trail me- such as the Cirque de Gavarnie with theanders in and out of beech and fir woodland before crossing summer meadows and highest waterfall in Europethen onto the edge of the National Park. You will be entering the land of isards,marmots and large birds of prey. 4 hrs, +800m, -200m (optional detour which adds Wonderful trails through a series of1hr 30) cirques with beautiful lakesDay 3: Tour from Le Clot Plenty of wildlife with vultures, eagles,A circular trail around the Carinquère Massif in the Marcadau Valley It crosses summerpastures, climbing and contouring the marvels of this lake land region. You’ll discover marmots and isardsthe eastern side of the mighty Vignemale Massif. 6hrs, +/-850m Only carrying a light rucksackDay 4: Le Clot - Refuge de Baysellance At a GlanceToday you’ll approach the highest summit in the Pyrenees, le Vignemale (3298 m) bythe hanging Gaube valley and its famous lake, loved by the romantic writers such as GUIDED / INDEPENDENTSand, Baudelaire and Hugo. You’ll discover a rich flora as you pass through various Price: See Price Liststages of vegetation to reach the high Hourquette d’Ossoue pass at 2736m, the highestpoint of the day. 5hrs, +1200m, -100m Grade:Day 5: Refuge de Baysellance - Gavarnie Profile:Another ‘classic’ day, passing under one of the biggest glaciers in the Pyrenees, the Dates: 20 June - 10 SeptOssoue Glacier. After a spectacular traverse above the Ossoue Gorge, it’s an easy trail,accompanied by marmots with rich flora in the summer pastures. Then cross several wildvalleys & reach the village of Gavernie below its famous cirque. 5hrs +200m, -1500m.Day 6: Gavarnie - Refuge des EspuguettesYour trail goes around Cirque de Gavarnie, the highest limestone mountain & waterfall inEurope. Despite its popularity, the walk around the cirque provides a relatively wild andvery spectacular day out. Your itinerary follows ledges in the cirque but without everbeing overly exposed, the walk is still ‘aerial’ and breath-taking. The site also has a richfauna and flora (birds of prey, marmots, isards) & from your refuge you are oftentreated to a beautiful sunset. 4hrs 30, +900m, -300m.Day 7: Refuge des Espuguettes - Le MailletAfter the pleasant crossing of the Cardous Plateau at the foot of the impressive northface of Astazou and Swan Couloir, you pass by Hourquette d'Alans to reach the lessfrequented but nonetheless wild and beautiful Estaube Cirque which harbours LakeGloriettes. After a small climb you have a pretty balcony trail which takes you toTroumouse Cirque. Your traverse finishes on reaching Le Maillet. 5hrs 30, +700m, -900m. Day 8: Departure: After breakfast departure by car or transfer to train station.Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for details AccommodationWalking 6 days independent walking moving between gites and mountain 5 nights in gites and 2 Profile huts with one circular trail. It is graded moderate/challenging with nights in mountain huts. All average days which include 5 hours of walking and 800m of ascent nights are in dormitory style & descent (Maximum 1200m). Paths are generally good and well rooms with shared bath- defined, although they can be rocky & mountainous in character in rooms. Dormitories vary in places. You should have a good head for heights and be able to size. Blankets are provided navigate. (so you don't need to bring sleeping bags). Tasty andHoliday Starts every day of week subject to availability. 7 nights: 6 days filling meals are taken in a Profile independent walking between gites and refuges large dining room where a great atmosphere prevails What’s 7 nights' Half Board accommodation. Transfer either at the start or as walkers share theirincluded end of holiday (1 hour). Full walking notes and maps. Transport of stories and experiences. luggage between accommodation (except on two nights).What’s not Travel to Cauterets or Maillet, lunches, drinks with meals, showers 11 included in the mountain huts, any excursions or entrance fees, travel 131 insurance [email protected]

TOUR of QUEYRAS: An Alpine SecretIndependent Walking 0 n this exciting independent walking holiday you’ll explore the spectacular and relatively undiscovered Queyras Region. Its range of accessible summits linked by good trails makes this An unspoilt, rugged Alpine region with unspoilt region a paradise for walkers wishing to have a real high alpine experience. In addition, its southern location on the breath-taking scenery, dramatic walking border with Italy means it enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year. & a great variety of landscapes The circular tour passes through a range of varied landscapes: An alpine circuit where your luggage is with mountain torrents snaking down deep gorges and valleys, whilst above, alpine meadows merge with astonishing rocky transported for you deserts capped by a succession of stunning mountain ridges and peaks. Its fauna and flora is exceptional with chamois, ibex, Accessible mountains, sunny climate & marmots, golden eagle and a vast array of rare wild flowers. good paths make it an ideal alpine The region also has a rich architectural heritage which is destination for novices & experienced encapsulated by the pretty alpine village of St Veran. alike Walks: day-by-day Plenty of historic and cultural interest Day 1: Arrival – Welcome & pick-up from Mont Dauphin-Guillestre station with remarkable & varied architecture Day 2: Molines en Queyras - Ceillac Rich alpine flora and fauna Today you'll climb gently through forests to reach the Col Fromage (2301m). From here you At a Glance have the option of continuing on to the summit of the Crete de Chabrette (2582m) for some stunning views of the glaciated peaks of the Fonte Sancte, or descend directly to the village of GUIDED / INDEPENDENT Ceillac in its deep valley setting. 6hrs, +800m Price: See Price List Day 3: Ceillac - St Veran Grade: + The climb out of Ceillac is fairly steep, but you are rewarded at the Col des Estronques (2651m) with a stunning panorama. This makes a great place to stop for lunch. Ridges snake Profile: off on both sides with the rocky slopes of the Crete de Rasis providing a stark contrast to the flower-filled meadows below. Possibility to summit Tete de Jacquette at 2757m. Descent to St Veran with its alpine dwellings with high hay lofts built from Larch. 5hrs,+1050m Day 4: St Veran - Refuge Agnel Your walk starts by following the torrent of the Aguille Blanche. You then pass through a landscape of tumbling streams, meadows and rocky bluffs. The path climbs steadily to the Col de Chamossiere from where it’s possible to easily summit a 3000m peak. The path descends to the refuge Agnel. Refuge or taxi trip to hotel in St Veran. 6hrs, +1050m Day 5: Refuge Agnel - Abriès After a short ascent you reach the col Vieux (2806m) at the foot of the impressive Pain du Sucre. From here it’s a spectacular descent along the Bouchouse Valley. You'll pass a couple of beautiful alpine lakes before joining the Guill Valley. 6hrs, +220 m ; - 1250 m Day 6: Abriès - Aiguilles A steady climb out of Abriès along a steep valley leads to the Grand Laus (2579m), a stunning mountain lake where the surrounding peaks are reflected in its clear blue waters. Summit option & dramatic and pretty descent to the village of Aiguilles. 6 hrs, +/- 1000 m Day 7: Aiguilles - La Chalp, Arvieux An enjoyable walk with less climbing. You overlook the Guill valley including the 16th century Chateau Queyras located on a rock pillar in the valley bottom. The path then winds past the traditional village of Souliers and Lac de Roue to reach the Arvieux Valley. 6 hrs, + 450 m Day 8: Tour from La Chalp, Arvieux Choice of 3 possible walks to explore the surroundings of the Arvieux Valley with its rugged limestone peaks, unique Italian style architecture and wonderful alpine meadows. 6hrs +900m. Extra days & nights possible in Arvieux Valley. Day 9: Departure - Transfer to train station after breakfast Dates: 15/6 15/9 Price p/p See Price List or Web Site for details. Price dependent on choice Accommodation of refuge option or hotel option on day 4. Also dependent on Your accommodation is a mixture of small family run hotels, chambres d'hôtes, auberges and a mountain refuge. (Option inclusion or exclusion of transfers to and from station. available to stay at a hotel instead of the mountain refuge). The comfort varies according to the style. All of the guest Walking 7 days independent walking moving between guest houses. Average days house rooms have private rooms for 2 and all but one or two Profile are about 6 hours long and include height gains of between 800m and have private bathrooms. The mountain hut has small dormitory 1000m. In addition, most walks will take place between 2000m and 3000m style rooms and is much more basic. However there is a where the effects of altitude can be felt. A good level of fitness is required, convivial atmosphere and the surroundings are magical. Meals and you should be comfortable on mountainous paths. Walking experience are taken in your guest house and are local specialities. Your in the mountains is advisable. You should be able to navigate in case of poor last two nights are in a good 3 star hotel with pool. weather. The paths are mountainous in nature and sometimes exposed, but they do not require any technical abilities. Early in the season, i.e. in June, you could experience snow at some of the higher cols. Holiday 8 nights: 7 days independent walking moving between guest Profile houses. Starts every day of the week subject to availability. What’s 8 nights' half board accommodation. Full walking notes and maps, included transport of luggage between guest houses, transfer to & from Mont Dauphin-Guillestre train station.What’s not Travel to Guillestre, France; lunches, drinks with some evening meals, included any excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance32 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

Tour of the Ubaye - Hidden Alps Independent WalkingD iscover the wonderful Ubaye, a hidden corner of the French Alps. We have two treks through this little known region in wild and picturesque mountain scenery. Both tours will take you through some magnificent landscapes with beautiful alpine summits, serene mountain lakes and remote and traditional alpine hamlets. The first holiday is a 6-day trek in the heart of the Ubaye, with a small detour into the Piedmont in Italy where you’ll discover the historic village of Chiaperra. You’ll also pass close to Pic de Chambeyron at over 3400m whilst staying in welcoming gites with rooms for 2. On our grand tour you’ll visit the Upper Verdon Valley (where you may well see Cayolle Ibex), the Mercantour National Park and the famous Allos Lake, as well as the Nature Reserve of Lauzanier. Accommodation Wild alpine landscapes in a quiet part of the A mixture of gites and mountain refuges. Depending on French Alps with accessible summits, availability, you can choose private rooms for 2 on most beautiful lakes & traditional hamlets nights of both holidays. Tasty and filling meals are taken in a large dining room where a great atmosphere prevails Bag transfers and rooms for 2, possible on as walkers share their stories and experiences. several nights 6 Day Tour of the Ubaye Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at Gite in Ceillac or transfer from train station GradeDay 2: Ceillac (1650m) - Maljasset (1910m) Discover the amazing Walking 6 days self-guided walking betweenwaterfall, Cascade de la Pisse and then two beautiful lakes - Lac Miroir & Lac Ste Anne Profile gites & refuges. Average of 6—7hrs walkingwith its turquoise waters set at the foot of Fonte Sancte (3385 m). Opportunity to climb per day & between 750m and 1150m ofto summit of Tete de Girardin for spectacular views. + 1100m ; - 800 m; 6hr ascent & descent. The walks take place on marked paths, although they are mountain-Day 3: Maljasset (1910m) - Chiaperra (1640m) ous in nature with some steeper and rocky passages. You can choose whether to carryA pretty walk from the Ubaye Valley via the lakes of Martinet at the foot of impressive your own bags or have them transportedrocky spires climbing to Col de Mary (2641m). Discover the beautiful piedmont in Italy (except two days where it’s not possible).and the historic village of Chiaperra. No luggage transfer. + 750 m, - 1000 m, 6h Dates 17 June - 9 SeptDay 4: Chiaperra (1640m) - Larche (1670m) What’s 6 nights HB accommodation in gites andSuperb crossing of the Chambeyron massif via the Col de Sautron (2685m). A wild and Included refuges (rooms for 2 or 4). Transfers before &beautiful climb in the cirque de Rocca Rossa. + 1050 m, - 1000 m, 6h30 after if required. Transfer of bags (if chosen). Detailed walking notes and walking maps.Day 5: Larche (1670m) - Fouillouse (1905m) What’s not Travel to Ceillac or local station, lunches,Walk to Col de Mallemort (2558m) dominated by Fort Viraysse, where a beautiful and included drinks, any visits, travel insurancewild valley leads you Col du Vallonnet at 2524m. + 1050 m, - 750 m, 6h30Day 6: Fouillouse (1905m) - Val d’Escreins (1781m)Climb a long valley leading to Col de Serenne (2650 m) & the lac des neuf couleursDescend to Val d'Escreins, a protected nature reserve. +1050 m, - 1100 m, 6h30Day 7: Val d’Escreins (1781m) - Ceillac (1650m)A wonderful hike to finish. Climb and cross Pic d'Escreins (2730 m). ExceptionalPanorama of the Ecrins mountains and the Alpine summits. +1150m, -1150m, 6h30).Holiday finishes after walk or book additional night in Ceillac. Three Regions Tour:Day 1: Arrival – Welcome at Gite de Méolans. Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsDay 2: Abbaye du Laverq (1600m) - Col d’Allos (2247m) GradeTransfer between your gite and Abbey du Laverq. Start in the Laverq Valley & then Walking 8 days self-guided walking betweenfollow panoramic ridges to reach Refuge du Col d’Allos. 6hrs 45, +1070m, -420m Profile gites & refuges. Average of 6—7hrs walk- ing per day & between 600m and 1200m ofDay 3: Col d’Allos (2247m) - Refuge de la Cayolle (2266m) ascent & descent. The first 6 days are hard- est & are more mountainous in character.2 possible trails on this long day, either via the valley before climbing to the col & The walks take place on marked paths,lakes or a quiet trail at altitude in remote mountain country. 7hrs, +1055m, -1010m although they are mountainous in nature with some steeper and rocky passages. YouDay 4: Refuge de la Cayolle (2266m) - Bousieyas (1983m) can choose whether to carry your own bags or have them transported (except two daysProgress through the Mercantour National Park and admire the mountain scenery from where it’s not possible).Crête de la Blanche. (No bag transfer.) 7hrs 30, +945m, -1335m Dates 17 June - 9 SeptDay 5: Bousieyas (1983m) - Larche (1670m) What’s 8 nights HB accommodation in gites andFor a couple of days you’ll follow the GR5, which traverses the French Alps. Cross two Included refuges (rooms for 2 possible on 4 nights).passes, to return to the Ubaye & the Lauzanier Valley. 6hrs 30, +985m, -1200m. Transfer on day 2 and at the end of last walking day. Transfer of bags (if chosen).Day 6: Larche (1670m) - Fouillouse (1905m) Detailed walking notes and walking maps.Climb over Col de Mallemort and then Col du Vallonnet dominated by the summit of What’s not Travel to Gite de Méolans, Ubaye, lunches,Brec de Chambeyron (3389m). 5hrs, 45, +1050m, -820m included drinks, any visits, travel insuranceDay 7: Fouillouse (1905m) - Les Prats(1693m) 33A balcony path leads to impressive fortifications of Tournoux. 7hrs, +830m, -1030m.Day 8: Les Prats(1693m) - Refuge de la Pare (1832m)An easier day with a choice of trails including a remote trail through a Mouflon naturereserve to reach Refuge de la Pare. (No bag transfer) 5hrs, +950m, -810mDay 9: Refuge de la Pare (1832m) - Méolan (1070m)A long descent to the gite where you arrived. You’ll pass several traditional hamlets,as you discover the local built heritage. 5hrs, +200m, -1250m.Departure – Possible to book extra night at Gite de Méolans [email protected]

Alpine Hut to Hut TreksGuided & Independent O ur Alpine hut-to-hut treks are back-packing multi-day walks where you stay in mountain refuges. First up is a trekking tour in the beautiful Vanoise National Park which Trekking through relatively quiet and un- circles the huge glacial plateau of the Vanoise. The tour allows you to be at close quarters with elegant high mountain spoilt regions of the Alps peaks and stunning alpine glaciers. Designated a National Park, the Vanoise is a natural, unspoilt wilderness where Exciting walking between amazing alpine souring alpine peaks with pristine glaciers rise majestically above wild, remote valleys. Our second tour treks around the peaks rising majestically above remote imposing Mont Viso, an isolated peak rising to 3841m in the valleys with rich wildlife southern Italian Alps. You’ll cross between France and Italy experiencing great mountain huts, varied mountain scenery, 11High mountain peaks in the Vanoise breath-taking panoramas and beautiful lakes. Don’t forget your binoculars, as there are a host of protected species in Dramatic, wild & quiet region of Mont Viso both areas including the famous alpine ibex, chamoix, bearded vulture and golden eagle as well as many rare plants. Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for details Accommodation Grade + On both holidays, you’ll stay in mountain huts or Profile 6 or 7 nights, 5 or 6 days trekking between mountain huts, carrying own gear for week refuges during the trek, sleeping in dormitory style (back-packing). Average 500m to 1000m of ascent and about 6 hours of walking. The difficulty of this rooms. The rooms vary in size from just a few people holiday is increased due to carrying your own gear and the terrain and potential conditions. Mountain up to 40. The huts are smaller on the Viso trek. walking experience necessary. The paths are mountainous in nature and often exposed. Early in Blankets are provided (so you don't need to bring the season you may encounter snow. sleeping bags). Some huts have showers. Tasty and Dates 15 June—15 Sept filling meals are taken in a large dining room where a What’s 6 or 7 nights' FB accommodation (except lunch in included Pralognan): 3*** hotel in Pralognan & refuges on great atmosphere prevails. trek. Full walking notes and maps or guiding Tour of Vanoise What’s not Travel to Pralognan; lunch on first day of trek, Day 1: Arrival – Welcome at hotel in Pralognan included drinks, excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance Day 2: Pralognan - Refuge col de la Vanoise: Climb an ancient salt route, trekking around the stunning rock spire aiguille de la Vanoise. At the Col de la Vanoise (2517m), you’ll come face to face with the Grande Casse, a true giant of the French Alps, with its glacier lapping at the crystal lake at its base. +1100m, 4.5hrs Day 3: Refuge col de la Vanoise - Refuge de l’Arpont: Your trail contours valley slopes in beautiful landscapes. You can follow a trail from the Arpont hut to lac d'Arpont for close up views of the plateau glacier. +300m, -450m, 5.5hrs Day 4: Refuge de l’Arpont - Refuge de la Dent Perachée: Trek in alpine meadows covered in wild flowers and rocky slopes below the impressive peak - La Dent Parachée. Keep your eyes open for ibex and marmots. +770m, -585m, 6hrs Day 5: Refuge de la Dent Perachée - Refuge de l’Orgère: A relatively easy day taking a balcony trail. After reaching Col du Barbier, a small descent leads you to a refuge below the Aiguille Doran. +350m, -860m, 5hrs Day 6: Refuge de l’Orgère - Refuge de Peclet-Polset: At almost 2800m the Col Chavière is the highest mountain pass on the circuit offering great views across the Vanoise peaks. At Peclet Polset you can enjoy a short excursion to the beautiful Lac Blanc. +900m, -300m, 5hrs Also option of a 6 night holiday going via Col de l’Aussois and then staying at Refuge de la Peche. More difficult option. Day 7: Refuge de Peclet-Polset - Pralognan: Your final day's walking descends a lovely valley below the imposing mountain walls of the Pointe de l'Echelle. Option of climbing to summit of Petit Mont Blanc at over 2600m for great views. Day 8: Departure - Holiday ends after breakfast. Tour of Viso Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for details GradeDay 1: Arrival – Welcome in Queyras or transfer from train station Profile 7 nights, 7 days trekking between mountain huts,Day 2: Queyras - Val Pellice: Climb to a pass on the Italian border with first carrying own gear for week (back-packing). Between 350m & 1250m of ascent and about 6-7views of Mont Viso. Descend into Val Pellice and its alpage. Climb a glacial moraine to hours of walking. The difficulty of this holiday isreach Refuge Granéro by a lake. +1150m, -550m, 5hrs 30 increased due to carrying your own gear and some long days. Mountain walking experience necessary.Day 3: Val Pellice - Val Pö: Back in France pick up an ancient salt trail before The paths are mountainous in nature and often exposed and not always well-marked. Early in theclimbing back to the border & if conditions allow traverse a small tunnel 75m long built season you may encounter snow. Navigation skillsin 1480 at 2900m altitude. If not a 2nd pass takes you into Italy. +1250m, -700m, 6hrs required due to regular presence of Nebbia—local fog/cloud.Day 4: Val Pö: Today an easier day traverses the Eastern slopes of Mont Viso, It Dates 11 June—17 Septnonetheless crosses 2 passes, visits 7 lakes and there is an option of a 3000m summit—Viso Mozzo. Dramatic walking under 1200m high walls. +350m (+370m), -800m, 6hrs What’s 7 nights' half board accommodation in huts. Option included of extra night at end of trek. Full walking notes andDay 5: Val Pö: - Val Vallanta: After crossing the pass San Chiafredo (2762m), maps, option of transfers from stationa long descent leads to Val Varaita and its beautiful alpage. Climb to the foot of the westface of Viso and a remarkable refuge at 2500m. +700m, -800m, 6hrs 30 What’s not Travel to Queyras, lunches, drinks, any excursions included or entrance fees, travel insuranceDay 6: Val Vallanta - Val Varraita: Easier day to explore the most beautifulhistoric village of the Piedmont, Chianale. A short climb to a col where you can climbPunta Losetta at 3042m. +550m (with optional ascent), -1050m, 5hrs 30Day 7: Val Varraita - Queyras: Wonderful climb in the Dell Antolina alpage.You’ll discover several lakes during the day. Choice between 2 trails either the westernridge of Rocca Bianca or a longer tour of Tete des Toillies. +1100m, -400m 5—6hrs 30Day 8: Above St Veran - Guil Valley: A short climb to Col Chamoussièrewith the option of Pic Caramantran at over 3000m for wonderful views of the giants ofthe Alps. After climbing to Col Vieux descend a beautiful valley with 2 wonderful lakes tore-join your starting point. +530m (+150m for peak), -1300m 6hrs 3034 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

PANORAMIC VERCORST he Vercors is a magical place where gleaming rock Independent Walking faces meet wild and desolate plateaux. The mainsummits are to be found on a ridge running along itseastern edge, the centre piece being Mont Aiguille, anawesome rock tower cast off from the main cliffs. Yourtraverse will follow this edge from above and below in themost scenic part of the Vercors. These undiscoveredmountains offer some amazing panoramic views of thealpine chain. The Vercors is also a haven for wildlife withchamois, marmots and the famous alpine Ibex roaming theupland slopes. As for the flora there are 80 protectedspecies represented including many rare orchids. You canadapt the number of days to suit your wishes.Walks: day-by-dayDay 1: Arrival – Pick up from Monestier-de-Clermont train station and transfer to Superb panoramic views Magical landscapes where gleaming verticalstunning 3 star hotel by Lake Montéynard Avignonet cliffs meet wild and desolate plateauxDay 2: Treffart - Gresse en Vercors The Mont Aiguille – centre piece of an areaClimb away from the lake to a superb viewpoint over the lake. Pass through the village ofMonestier before climbing to Pas du Serpaton from where you can extend the day’s walk by known as the French Dolomitesfollowing the ridgeline to the summit of Rocher du Cleton with your first fantastic panorama.After, descend to the alpine village of Gresse en Vercors. +1100m, 20km 7hrs A haven for fauna and flora A challenging trek for those looking to getDays 3 & 4: Grand Veymont away from the crowdsChoice of 3 walks. Climb the highest peak in the Vercors, Grand Veymont at 2341m forfantastic 360° views including Mont Aiguille below you or undertake a traverse of the famous Welcoming hotelsbalcony trail under the immense cliffs of the eastern edge of the Vercors plateau. Up to+1150m 16km 6hrs. Second day from Gresse is optional. At a GlanceDay 5: Gresse en Vercors - Richardiere GUIDED / INDEPENDENTAnother superb day which passes ravines and rock towers before climbing a gorge to reach Price: See Price ListPas de Bachassons. A small traverse of the plateau before descending to cross the gapbetween the cliffs and Mont Aiguille – a unique walking experience. Descend to your hotel at Grade:Richardiere. There is an easier walk available on this day. +1050m, 22km 7 hrs Profile:Day 6: Richardiere - Nonniers Dates: 1 June 16 OctAn enjoyable valley walk under giant cliffs before climbing onto the plateau – walk acrossthe bizarre limestone plateau, a chaotic landscape of rocks, covered in pasture withwonderful wild flowers. Amazing views throughout of the Chichilianne valley, Mont Aiguilleand the Alpine chain. Descend and follow the Combeau valley before a small climb to crossthe Col de Cote chevre before descending to the isolated tiny village of Nonniers. 21km,+1000m 6hrs 30Day 7: Cirque d’ArchianeFrom your hotel you can climb back up onto the plateau to view the amazing rockampitheatre of Archiane from above or explore the cirque itself from below by following apath below the rock walls. Up to 17km, +800m. This day is optional.Day 8: Nonniers - GrimoneYour final day matches the excitement of the previous walks as you climb through forest toemerge onto the Jiboui ridge. Follow this to the Col de Seysse before climbing onto anotherbreathtaking ridge leading to the summit of Le Joucou at 2051m which dominates thesurrounding hills between the Vercors plateau to the west and the rocky mountains of theDevoluy to the east. Descend to Grimone a pretty hamlet. +1250m, 18km, 7hrsDay 9: Departure - Transfer to station at Lus-la-Croix-Haute (on same line asMonestier).Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for details Accommodation See our web site for details of our 4-day/5 night walk: Tour of You’ll stay in a couple of charming 3 star hotels, a couple of 2 star hotels Mont Aiguille in great settings and a rustic gite in Grimonde. Warm welcome and greatWalking 5 or 7 day’s self-guided walking, 4 walks between guest houses. Walking local food. Full board. Example: Le Profile per day amounts to an average of 6 - 7hrs walking (not including lunch Chalet, Gresse en Vercors is a stop) and 1,100m of ascent and descent. Maximum altitude gain in one charming hotel with pool in a day is 1,250m. The walks take place on paths, although they are magnificent setting. mountainous and rocky in nature. You should have a good level of fitness and be comfortable with walking on mountainous terrain. You should also be sure-footed on mountain paths and have a good head for heights.Holiday 6 or 8 nights: 5 or 7 days self-guided walking moving between guest houses (except for extra days at Gresse and Nonnières). ItProfile is possible to adapt the number of days to suit your requirements What’s 6 or 8 nights full board accommodation. Meals from dinner on firstIncluded evening to breakfast on last day. Transfers from local train station before and after the holiday. Detailed walking notes and walking maps, transport of baggage.What’s not Travel to local train stations, France; drinks with evening meals, lunches 11 included on day of arrival and departure, entrance fees, travel insurance 35 [email protected]

QUEYRAS - Best Kept Secret in the AlpsGuided & Independent T his walking holiday, which explores the spectacular and relatively undiscovered Queyras Region by a series of day An unspoilt, rugged Alpine region with walks, is available as a guided & independent break. Its range of breath-taking scenery, dramatic walking accessible summits linked by good trails makes this unspoilt region & a great variety of landscapes a paradise for walkers wishing to have a real high alpine experience Great alpine hospitality & food staying in and who love far ranging panoramic views. In addition, its southern wonderful small guest houses location on the border with Italy means it enjoys 300 days of Accessible summits, sunny climate & sunshine a year. good paths make it an ideal alpine destination for novices & experienced Your day walks will pass through varied landscapes: with mountain alike torrents snaking down deep gorges, whilst above, alpine meadows Plenty of historic and cultural interest merge with astonishing rocky deserts capped by a succession of with remarkable & varied architecture stunning mountain peaks. Its wildlife is exceptional with chamois, A rich alpine flora and fauna ibex, marmots, golden eagle and a vast array of rare wild flowers. At a Glance The region also has a rich architectural heritage which is GUIDED / INDEPENDENT encapsulated by the pretty alpine village of St Veran. Price: See Price List Walks: day-by-day Grade: Day 1: Arrival – Welcome at guest house in Queyras or in Lyon & transfer Profile: The following are examples of the many walks available. Dates: 15 June to 15 Sept Day 2: Col Neal & Clapeyto meadows (5hrs, +650m) Your week will start with a gentle climb out of the Arvieux Valley through flower-filled alpine pastures to the Col Néal with its numerous glacial lakes. From here, we have stunning views of the Ecrins mountain range. Your circuit then descends through the pretty hamlet of Clapeyto with its traditional chalets and summer meadows. Day 3: Lakes Mirroir & Ste Anne (6hrs, min +800m) Start by visiting the village of Ceillac and the amazing waterfall de la Pisse. After, climb through forests to reach the beautiful Lac Mirroir, with stunning limestone peaks rising above lush green pastures. Higher up Lake Ste Anne’s turquoise blue waters are surrounded by the highest mountain in the Queyras. Option of climbing to a mountain pass for exceptional views of the Queyras. Descent by a different route. Day 4: Chateau Queyras & Lake Souliers (4hrs, +300 - 700m) Visit Chateau Queyras in the morning - the principal fortified site of the region. Our afternoon’s walk starts from the Casse Deserte, an area of barren rocky slopes and wonderful pinnacles, before climbing to reach the beautiful lake Souliers, surrounded by rocky mountains. Rest in the sun or climb onto a surrounding peak for spectacular panoramic views. An alternative longer circuit available taking in pretty hamlet of Souliers & Lake Roue. Day 5: Tour of Furfande (7hrs, +800m) Climb to the Col de Furfande, where it’s possible to make the easy ascent of Pic du Gazon at 2744m with great views. Descend to Refuge de Furfande for refreshment before a dramatic traverse high above the Guil Valley. Descend via pretty woodland. Day 6: Lac de Grand Laus (7hrs, +1000m) From the village of Abries, a pleasant climb to lac de Grand Laus which makes a perfect spot for lunch. Great views. It’s possible to climb up to the ridge beyond and the Pic Malrif for wonderful views of the Ecrins mountain range. Descend via Aiguilles. Possible shorter alternative walks available. Day 7: Caramantran & St Veran (5hrs 30, +750m) Your last day's objective is nothing less than a 3000m high mountain. The walking is pleasant and easy as you pass tumbling streams, meadows and rocky bluffs to reach the summit where views extend to the Piedmont in Italy, the Mont Blanc in France, and the Matterhorn in Switzerland. The descent will take you past Lac de la Blanche. We'll visit the historic and well preserved village of St Véran, the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe. Day 8 Departure - Transfer to Lyon after breakfast Price p/p See Price List or Web Site for details Date 15 June to 15 September Accommodation Walking 6 or more days walking staying in two/three guest houses/hotels. Average Stay in 2 or 3 very comfortable and Profile walking days are about 6 hours long and include height gains of between charming guest houses or hotels 400m and 1000m. In addition four of the days include the possibility of located close to the walking areas. They offer delightful ascending further to reach some easy alpine summits where you'll be experiences and are run by welcoming and helpful hosts. rewarded by spectacular views. This flexibility allows a group of mixed Meals will be taken in your guest house and are delicious abilities on guided holidays to make the most of the holiday. Most walks local specialities served with wine. Example: Ferme d’Izoard take place above 2000m where the effects of altitude can be felt. Moderate in Arvieux Valley is a great 3 star hotel with pool at 1700m to good level of fitness is required. You should also be comfortable on altitude. mountainous paths and have a good head for heights. Possibility of 3 different centres for the self-guided walking holiday: St Veran, Ceillac & Arvieux. Contact us for different options and ideas. Holiday 7 nights: 6 days guided or independent walking. Centre based Profile holiday staying in at least two guest houses. Included 7 nights' full board accommodation, guided: transport to & from Lyon and during the week, 6 guided walks. Self-guided: walking notes & maps, transfer from/to local station, transfers between centresWhat’s not Travel to Lyon or to Queyras, France; lunches on arrival & departure days, included drinks, visits, travel insurance36 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

Les Ecrins: Panoramic Alpine TrailS tarting at Besse en Oisans, your spectacular traverse Independent Walking will follow one of the best sections of the Tour of theEcrins. The Oisans or Ecrins massif has a number of Superb panoramic views of the dramaticamazing alpine summits which plunge dramatically into theRomanche Valley. You’ll discover stunning panoramic and glacier-clad Ecrins mountainsviews of glacier-clad mountains such as the Meije and theBarre des Ecrins at over 4000m in altitude. Your trail takes A wonderful traverse which goes around theyou past high alpine lakes, through stunning valleys andalong beautiful balcony paths. Benefiting from a relatively northern edge of the Ecrinsclement climate compared to the northern Alps, the Ecrinsoffer the walker a unique walking experience. You’ll also High altitude lakes and alpine meadowshave the chance to take a cable car to the foot of the Meije Chance to take a cable car up to 3,200m atGlacier at 3,200m and for the more intrepid to take a shortwalk on the glacier itself with a high mountain guide. the base of the Meije Glacier Walks: day-by-day Traditional alpine hamletsDay 1: Arrival – Meeting point at La Grave and taxi to Besse en Oisans At a GlanceDay 2: Besse en Oisans - Le Chazelet GUIDED / INDEPENDENTYou’ll traverse the Emparis plateau at 2365m with its numerous alpine lakes. Discover Price: See Price Listthis stunning balcony trail with terrific views of the high alpine summits, notably theMeije. Afterwards you’ll descend to the village of Chazelet, built on a terrace on the Grade:valley side of the Meije Massif. 6hrs, +900m, -720m Profile:Day 3: Le Chazelet - Villar d’Arêne Dates: 15 June 15 SeptYou have the choice of 2 options:Option 1 - An hours panoramic trail to reach La Grave where you take the cable car to3,200m at the foot of the Meije Glacier for amazing views of the northern Alps. On thedescent, stop at the Peyrou d’Amont station for a walk to the Refuge Chancel withwonderful panoramic views. Descend by cable car and follow the Tour of Dauphiné andin 2hrs you’ll discover the pretty alpine village of Villar d’Arêne. 5hrs, +250m, -450m.Option 2 - Ascend a beautiful ridge offering unique views of the Meije and the villagesclinging to the valleys. You can extend the walk to take in the Signal de la Grave at2446m. Your descent to La Grave allows you to discover old terraces used for farming,now abandoned, and the pretty hamlet of Ventelon. After exploring the steep alleywaysof La Grave climb the Romanche gorge to reach Villar d’Arêne. 5hrs 30, +850m, -950mDay 4: Valfroide - Lac du Goléon - Villar d’ArêneAfter a taxi transfer to the hamlet of Valfroide (1850m), you’ll climb to the Goléoncirque via the typical alpine hamlets of Pramailler and Plot. Climb more steeply to aplateau where the panorama of the aiguilles d’Arves is superb. Return to Villar d’Arênevia Valfroide and the alpine meadows of Envers. 6hrs, +900m, -1050mDay 5: Villar d’Arêne - Le MonetierA taxi will transfer you to Pont d’Arsine (4km) where you’ll climb the Arsine Valley at theentrance to the Ecrins National Park to reach a pass at over 2300m with superb views ofthe Agneaux mountains. You can extend the walk to reach the lake and the foot of theglacier (2455m). A long, easy descent brings you to Le Monetier. 6hrs, +820m, -1000m.Day 6: Tour from Le MonetierDiscover one of the most beautiful panoramic trails in the Alps with great views of theEcrins mountains. A great morning’s walk which also takes in historic hamlets andchapels. 3hrs 30, +/-400m. Option of extra night at Le Monetier.Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for details AccommodationWalking 5 days self-guided walking traversing the north of the Ecrins, staying in 4 You’ll be staying in 4 different hotels. Profile different locations. Walking per day amounts to an average of 5 - 6hrs They are comfortable family-run walking (not including lunch stop) and 800m of ascent and descent. hotels with a mix of styles. You'll be Maximum altitude gain in one day is 900m. The walks take place on good staying in private rooms for 2 with paths, although they are mountainous and sometimes rocky in nature. bathroom. You’ll be served whole- You should have a reasonable level of fitness and be comfortable with some local cuisine. All meals are walking on mountainous terrain. You should also be sure-footed on included in your holiday price. mountain paths and have a good head for heights.Holiday 5 nights: 5 days self-guided walking moving between hotels, staying 2 nights in Villar d’Arêne. Option of booking extra night atProfile Le Monetier.What’s 5 night’s half board accommodation in hotels with private rooms; taxi transfers on days 1, 4 and 5; detailed walking notes and walking maps,Included transport of luggage between hotels.What’s not Travel to La Grave at start and from Le Monetier at end of holiday; drinks 11 with evening meals, lunches, cable car charges, travel insurance, 37included anything else not listed above [email protected]

ALPS to MED TRAILIndependent Walking T his great walking holiday in southern France follows an extraordinary trail from the alpine mountains of the Mercantour to the Mediterranean coast at Menton. Your trail passes through a number of delightful perched villages, full of charm with plenty of cultural and historic interest with their superb Baroque architecture. Our walking holiday is an ideal spring or autumn break and can be made easier by taking the odd train or bus journey. Your 6 day trail will take you from one historic terrace to the next between pine forests and olive groves in narrow valleys and picturesque gorges, passing by historic villages clinging to steep mountainsides. Lovers of dramatic landscapes and historic villages will be satisfied in equal measure. Walks: day-by-day Day 1: Arrival – Welcome at your first guest house in the Mercantour. Varied walking through a changing Day 2: Tour from St Dalmas de Tende landscape from the Mercantour Alps to the Mediterranean coast Day tour during which you'll pass through two superb historic villages - Tende and La Brigue, which are as beautiful as the wild mountains of the Mercantour. It is possible to Beautiful perched alpine villages, with a reduce the difficulty and distance by taking the train for some sections. +/- 860 m, 5h30 rich historic and cultural heritage with Day 3: St Dalmas de Tende - Saorge origins in their Italian past Your walking trail will take you through a succession of delightful isolated villages built Picturesque valleys under an azur blue from dry local stone with slate roofs including Fontan, a village with an architectural style, unique in the region. Then walk or shuttle bus to Saorge a fascinating and sky charming village clinging to the steep mountain sides. Dinner and night at guest house in Saorge. Up to + 600 m/- 700 m, 5h30 Dip your feet in the Mediterranean Sea at Day 4: Saorge - Breil sur Roya the end of your walk Discover the alleyways of Saorge, the most beautiful perched village of the region with At a Glance its historic baroque monastary and chapel. Your trail to Breil sur Roya follows the \"salt trail\". This is a short and beautiful section with some steeper sections. At Breil-sur-Roya GUIDED / INDEPENDENT in the valley bottom, enjoy looking around its lovely historic buildings. + 300m/- 600 m, 4h30 Price: See Price List Grade: or Day 5: Breil sur Roya - Sospel Profile: A beautiful path through delightful landscapes which leads you through the well preserved perched village of Peine Haute, past an isolated chapel surrounded by olive Dates: April - June, Sept - Oct groves and a series of gorges, with one foot in France and the other in Italy. Dinner and night in hotel at Sospel. + 400 m/- 500 m, 5h30 Accommodation Day 6: Sospel - Sainte Agnès 7 nights in 2 star hotels and small guest houses in double/twin en-suite rooms. A mix of styles of Explore Sospel with the remains of its fortified chateau and cathedral. After, your hotels. Evening meals in hotels serving tasty local interesting trail takes you to the hill-top village of Sainte-Agnès, the highest coastal cuisine. village in Europe at 750m. You also have the choice of reducing the distance by taking a bus service to Castillon. Up to + 510 m/- 250 m, 5h00 Day 7: Sainte Agnès - Menton Today you'll arrive at the historic old town of Menton, perched on the slopes above its port. You have the choice of two routes either via the delightful historic villages of Gorbio and Roquebrune before reaching the coast and walking around Cap Martin; or via the hilltop village of Casteller on a balcony trail. + 220 m / - 750 m, 5h30 Day 8: Departure - End of holiday after breakfast Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for details Walking 6 days walking moving between guest houses. This holiday takes Profile place in upland or mountainous areas. The paths are well maintained. They pass through a range of types of terrain underfoot. The walking days average about 5hrs 30. Maximum amount of ascent in a day is 860m, although this can be reduced by taking public transport, average is 500m. In general the walking days become easier as the holiday progresses This holiday would be suitable for those walkers used to mountain walking, as well as those more occasional walkers in good health and fitness. Holiday Starts every day of week. 7 nights: 6 days independent Profile walking moving between guest houses. What’s 7 nights Full Board accommodation (except dinner in Menton). Full walking notes and maps, cultural guidebook, transport of Included luggage between guest houses.What’s not Travel to St Dalmas de Tende, France (accessible by train) and 11 from Menton; drinks with meals, final evening meal, train transfers, included any excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance38 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

Alpine Adventure: Lake Geneva to NiceT his mythical trail follows the GR5 from the shores of Independent Walking Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean coast at Nice,following the entire length of the French Alps. We have splitthe walk into several holidays, although it would bepossible to combine them together. Our holidays includeluggage transfers so that you can enjoy the amazing scen-ery with a light day pack.This holiday is a truly unforgettable experience as you headsouth passing by the majestic summits of the Mont Blancrange before passing through the Vanoise and MercantourNational Parks. Your wonderful trail passes through a varie-ty of landscapes, wildlife habitats and historic sites includ-ing the green alpine pastures of the Savoy, rocky deserts inthe Queyras, beautiful perched villages of the Roya, snowypeaks of the Mont Blanc and ibex in the Mercantour.Holiday Lake Geneva to Chamonix A superb trail along the chain of the entire French AlpsPrice P/P 6 nights: See Price List or Web Site for details. Cheapest Large variety of landscapes, wildlife and option possible staying in dormitories throughout or carrying climates own gear. Option of extra night accommodation at Chamonix. Private rooms and luggage transfersWalking 6 days self-guided walking between accommodation. Walking per Profile day amounts to an average of 5 - 6hrs walking and 800m of ascent and descent. Maximum altitude gain: 1100m. The walk follows the GR5 for the most part, but there are also different options proposed Holiday Briançon to Nice in the notes. The walks take place on paths, although they are mountainous and rocky in nature. You should have a reasonable Price P/P 12 nights: See Price List or Web Site for level of fitness and be comfortable with walking on mountainous details. Cheapest option carrying own gear terrain with a good head for heights. for whole trek. Option of night’s accommodation in Nice atGrade & date 18 June - 18 September end of trek. Consult website for separate costs of splittingItinerary Trail starts near Lake Geneva (largest lake in the Alps) and crosses the alpine meadows of the Abondance Valley before meandering along the foot of the Chablais mountains heading towards the ever- Walking 12 days self-guided walking between present profile of Mont Blanc. You’ll spend one night in Switzerland Profile accommodation. Walking per day amounts to at the foot of the beautiful mountain of Dents du Midi. an average of 5 - 8hrs walking and 950m of ascent and descent. Maximum altitude gain:Accommodation 6 nights half board accommodation in gites and refuges in private rooms 1200m. The walk follows the GR5 for the most part. The walks take place on paths, although for 2, bathrooms mainly separate (with the exception of 1 night in a they are mountainous and rocky in nature. You should have a reasonable level of fitness and dormitory.) be comfortable with walking on mountainous terrain with a good head for heights. What’s 6 nights half board accommodation, transfer from Evian station, plus 2included other small transfers. Detailed walking notes and walking maps, transport of luggage (except on day 6). Grade & date 15 June - 30 SeptHoliday Chamonix to BriançonPrice P/P 7 nights: See Price List or Web Site for details. Cheapest Itinerary From Briançon you’ll first traverse the beautiful Queyras regional park with its wonderful option: Carrying own gear for whole trek. Option of night’s flowers and great panoramas, before moving onto the secret Alps of the Ubaye Valley. From accommodation at Nevache at end of trek. there its onto the Mercantour National Park, with great wildlife before discovering the Walking 7 days self-guided walking between accommodation. Walking per wonderful perched villages of the Provence. Profile day amounts to an average of 5 - 7hrs walking and 870m of ascent and descent. Maximum altitude gain: 1100m. The walk follows the Accommo- 12 nights half board accommodation in hotels,Grade & date GR5 for the most part, but there are variations proposed in order to dation gites and refuges in private rooms for 2 (except 1 avoid ski areas. The walks take place on paths, although they are mountainous and rocky in nature. You should have a reasonable night in dormitories in refuge.) level of fitness and be comfortable with walking on mountainous terrain with a good head for heights. What’s 12 nights half board accommodation, 2 transfers included during the holiday to access accommodation. + 18 June - 18 September Detailed walking notes and walking maps, transport of luggage (except for 1 night).Itinerary After passing by the foot of the immense Mont Blanc glaciers you’ll pass through the alpine meadows of Beaufort, famous for its cheese. Between Pralognan & Modane you’ll discover the Vanoise National Park and the Mont Thabor. Afterwards the climate changes as you pass into the southern Alps.Accommodation 7 nights half board accommodation in auberges, hotels, gites and refuges What’s in private rooms for 2. included 117 nights half board accommodation, 2 small transfers, 1 cable car. Detailed walking notes and walking maps, transport of luggage. [email protected] 39

Travels Through Alpine ProvenceIndependent Walking O ur Alpine Provence adventure is a unique trek which crosses the southern Alps from the Rhone Valley to Grasse in the foothills above Cannes. This spectacular trip takes you through some wonderful mountain scenery where the Alps meet Provence. For 2018 we are introducing the first two parts of this wonderful journey. The first is the beautiful Baronnies Regional Park. This is a quiet and unspoilt corner of France where wild and rugged peaks rise above cultivated valleys with beautiful historic villages surrounded by olives, fruit orchards and lavender. Highlights include panoramic views from the peaks of Chamouse and Mare, plus the stunning Meouge Gorge. The second leg traverses the Geological Reserve of the Haute Provence from the citadel of Sisteron to Digne les Bains. As well as exploring a number of remarkable sites you’ll complete the horseshoe circuit of Les Monges at 2115m which provides wonderful views across the Alps. This long distance trail is ideal for those walkers seeking a unique challenge through some of France’s remotest mountain scenery as well as those keen to discover regions with lots of identity and cultural interest. Accommodation  A unique trek across SE France through Alpine A variety of charming and friendly guest Provence with remote mountain scenery houses and small hotels. A mixture of styles and levels of comfort. They are mainly in  Quiet and beautiful Baronnies Regional Park historic properties, often in wonderful locations where you’ll receive a warm  Great panoramic views, a Geological Reserve, welcome. Example: La Honas is a small guest house with great views over lavender fields. rich fauna & flora, & historic villages 11 Walks: day-by-day Baronnies Regional ParkDay 1: Arrival – Travel to the historic town of Nyons, the gateway to the Baronnies Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for details Gradeand home of the famous Nyons olives. Profile 7 nights, 6 days independent walking betweenDay 2: Nyons - Ste Jalle: After exploring the historic town of Nyons follow the guest houses. The walking days average about 900m of ascent and 22km each day. On some daysGR9 over two passes to the pretty hill-top village of Rochebrune. Gentle descent through it’s possible to increase or reduce the difficulty. Duevines to reach the historic village of Ste Jalle. 22.5km, +/-800m to the nature of the landscape some sections can be relatively steep. Paths are generally good withDay 3: Ste Jalle - Buis les Baronnies: Climb the Ennuye valley to the regular waymarking, but there are sections which can be rough and mountainous and some sectionssummit of Linceuil at 1192m for great views. Follow the GR9 via Cols de Milmandre & follow open alpine pasture where the trail is lessMalpertuis & descend to the historic village of Buis les Baronnies. 19km, +940m, -980m well defined. The steep terrain means that it would be unwise to do this holiday if you suffer fromDay 4: Buis les Baronnies - La Honas: Climb to the pretty village of La severe vertigo. Recommended for walkers with some mountain walking experience.Roche sur la Buis perched under its castle remains. Climb with great views to reach Colde Sanguinet, then the hamlet of Poet en Percip & a wonderful viewpoint of the summitof Mevouillon, ancient home of the Baronnies. Beautiful guest house. 22km +910mDay 5: La Honas - Eygalayes: Great day’s walking. Climb around the summitof Mevouillon through lavender fields and hamlets before climbing onto alpine pastureson a wonderful ridge and the summit of Chamousse at 1532m. Great 360° panoramicviews. Descend to the village of Eygalayes. Short transfer to Eourres. 24km, +850mDay 6: Eygalayes - Meouges Valley: Climb to the summit of Montagne de Dates April, May, June, Sept & OctMare through alpine grassland at 1622m. Great views across the Baronnies before going Included 7 nights' accommodation. 4 lunches, 5 eveningover two passes and descend to the Meouge Valley. 19km, +1020m, -1330m meals, walking notes & maps, transport of luggageDay 7: Meouges Valley - Laragne Monteglin: Descend the full length of between accommodation, short transfer.the spectacular Meouge Gorge surrounded by rock walls, accompanied by the sound of What’s not Travel to Nyons, 2 evening meals, 2 lunches,rushing water. Then cross a historic bridge and climb to Serre de la Croix and a view included drinks, visits, travel insurancepoint across the southern Alps before descending to Laragne. 20km, +580m, -690mDay 8: Departure: End of holiday after breakfast or continue with part 2. Walks: day-by-day Haute Provence Geological Reserve Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at your guest house in the historic citadel of Sisteron GradeDay 2: Sisteron - St Geniez: After exploring the historic town of Sisteron a truegateway to the Alps, set between rock walls, climb via Col de Mezien to St Geniez Profile 5 or 6 nights, 4 or 5 days independent walkingamongst open alpine grasslands in a wonderful setting at 1100m. 17.5km +990m between guest houses. The walking days aver-(option of extra 340m to summit of Trainon) age about 800m of ascent & 17km each day. The days are slightly shorter than in the Baronnies. OnDay 3: St Geniez - Authon: A fantastic walk completing the full horseshoe trail some days it’s possible to increase or reduce the difficulty. The remainder of the profile for aboveof Les Monges, a mountain at 2115m with fantastic views to the Alpine summits and holiday also applies for this leg of the traverse.across the Provence. 18km, +1030m, -1200mDay 4: Authon - Les Brigands: An easier day via a series of interestinggeological sites as well as old farms, chapels and terraces now abandoned. 12km,+450m. Optional climb of Tete de Geruen extra 12km and 580m ascent. Dates May & June, Sept & OctDay 5: Les Brigands - Thoards: Climb onto the summit of Corbeau and followa ridgeline with good views before descending to the Duyes Valley. 18km, +600m, - What’s 5 or 6 nights' accommodation with 3 or 4 lunches750m. (Also option of going direct from Authon to Thoards: 21km, +950m) and 3 or 4 evening meals, walking notes & maps, included transport of luggage between accommodationsDay 6: Thoard - Digne les Bains: Climb between fields and ridges back intothe mountains to reach the summit of La Bigue at 1652m for great views to the south.Continue along a stunning ridge before descending to Digne les Bains. 16km, +830m Not Travel to Sisteron & from Dignes les Bains, 2 included evening meals, one lunch, drinks, any visits, travelDay 7: Departure: End of holiday after breakfast. insurance40 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

Historic Dordogne TrailsT his picturesque region is dominated by the magnificent Independent Walking Dordogne valley lined with historic delights. Our easyself-guided walking holiday passes through one picturesquevillage after another. There’s La-Roque-Gageac which hasbeen built into steep sandstone cliffs which rise high abovethe river; the beautiful town of Sarlat, famous for its medievalarchitecture and its lively street market; and the gorgeoushilltop bastide town of Domme, unchanged for centuries. TheDordogne valley also has an impressive array of châteauxsuch as Fénelon, Beynac, Castelnaud, Marqueyssac, as well asimportant pre-historic sites.Our moderate graded holiday in Correze explores a lessfrequented part of Dordogne. Your walk starts near the localcentre of Brive-la-Gaillarde and heads south towards Beaulieusur Dordogne, passing through the historic villages ofTurenne, Collonges-la-Rouge and Curement, all of which areclassed as some of the prettiest villages in France. Accommodation Beautiful historic villages and chateaux set A mixture of charming small bed & breakfasts in a picturesque landscape full of local character and small independent family run hotels offering high quality of service. Great panoramic views Many are in historic properties, set in wonderful medieval village locations, some have swimming Wonderful guest houses & hotels pools. Warm welcome and gastronomic food. Example: Jeanne Maison d’hôte is a small bed 11Classic Dordogne or off the beaten track and breakfast in a historic property in the heart of Collonges-la-Rouge.Walks: Delights of Historic Dordogne Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at your guest house in Souillac - a bustling market Gradetown found on the train line. Explore the fine Romanesque Abbey.Day 2: Rouffillac - Carsac: A short transfer to Rouffillac. Follow the banks of the Profile 6 self-guided walks, moving between guest houses. Staying in 2 of the guest houses for tworiver through glorious countryside and visit Chateau Fenelon. Today’s destination is nights. The holiday is graded easy. Two of theCarsac, a lovely village in the heart of Perigord Noir. 13.5km, +/- 70m days allow you to increase the amount of walking or to rest. Average: 12km with limited ascentsDay 3: Sarlat: A choice today or maybe do both! A circular walk from Carsac and descents. All the walks are on good paths, although some sections can be muddy and rocky.through wonderful countryside, or, walk into Sarlat, which is the jewel in the crown ofDordogne. A magnificent medieval town with superb architecture. 12 - 16km, +/- 100mDay 4: Carsac - Domme: Walk through the enchanting valley towards Domme, abastide village which offers amazing views of the surrounding region. Explore prettyquaint streets and the caves to be found in Domme. 12.5km, +/- 130mDay 5: Domme - La Roque Gageac: Wander through enchanting countryside Anyone in good health can enjoy this holiday.to the beautiful village of La Roque Gageac. Along the way take the opportunity to visit Dates 15 April - 15 OctChateau Castelnaud. Explore the gardens at Chateau Marqueyssac. 12.5km, +/- 100mDay 6: Beynac: A day walk out of La Roque Gageac. Head towards Beynac and What’s 7 nights accommodation, including all breakfasts, included four dinners, 2 transfers during the week, fullvisit the magnificent chateau which looms over the valley. Possibility to take in a boatride down the river, taking in all the chateaux. 6.5 - 12km, +/- 80m walking notes and maps, transport of luggageDay 7: St Cyprien - Les Eyzies: A transfer to St Cyprien & from here its on to What’s not Travel to Souillac, France; lunches, 3 evening included meals, visits, travel insuranceLes Eyzies, one of Europe’s most famous pre–historic sites. 12km, +/- 60mDay 8: Departure - Holiday ends after breakfast. If you have time, visit the National Pre-historic Museum before departing.Walks: Quieter Side of Dordogne: Villages of Correze Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsDay 1: Arrival – Transfer from Brive la Gaillard to your lovely hotel. GradeDay 2: Noailhac - Turenne: Gentle walk to the beautiful village of Turennewith its castle perched on an isolated hill. 10km - 18km +200m - 450m Profile 4 or 6 days self-guided walking. The walking is mixed with several moderate ascents up and downDay 3: Turenne - Collonges-la-Rouge: Head north on the GR480 through valleys and hills. On the first two days it is possible to greatly vary the amount of walking which meansthe pretty hamlet of Ligneyrac before reaching the wonderful village of Collonges-la- that the 4-day holiday can be made into an easyRouge built from a vibrant red sandstone. 10 - 19km +160m - 430m walk. The 6 day walk becomes hillier as the holidayDay 4: Collonges-la-Rouge - Curemont: Pass through vines in prettyundulating countryside. Finish at the ridgetop village of Curemont, one of the prettiestin France. 17km +250m. 5 night and 7 night walking holidays split5 night holiday—Day 5: Curemont - Beaulieu sur Dordogne: A progresses. Most days average 4—6 hrs walking. Paths are generally good, although occasionallyshorter but hillier day to reach the pretty, historic abbey town on the Dordogne River. stony with the odd steep section.13km, +450m7 night holiday—Day 5: Curemont - Le Pescher: Head north through a Dates Everyday (subject to availability) April - Octbeautiful landscape of vines, pasture and forest into the first hills of the Massif Centralas the valleys become more tortuous and the hills become higher. 20km, +450mDay 6: Pescher - Roche de Vic: You’ll have wonderful views over the What’s 5 or 7 nights accommodation, 1 or 2 lunches & 4 or included 5 evening meals, transfer from and to Brive laSourdoire Valley, all the way towards the hills of the Lot. Continue through pasture andforest to the summit of Roche de Vic at 636m. 15km +470m Gaillard station before and after your holiday,Day 7: Roche de Vic - Aubazine: Short transfer then follow remote ridges walking notes and maps, luggage transfersand hills to Aubazine a historic monastic village. Opportunity to explore a 12th century What’s not Travel to and from Brive, France, 3 or 4 lunches, 1canal system, prehistoric sites and viewpoints. 18kms +350m included or 2 evening meals, visits, travel insuranceDay 8: Departure - Transfer to Brive after breakfast. [email protected] 41

SERENE LOT VALLEY TRAILIndependent Walking L et yourself be enchanted by the charm and beauty of the wonderful Célé and Lot Valleys. Less well known than the Dordogne, the Célé and Lot valleys will leave you captivated by their beauty. Our linear self-guided walk begins in Figeac and travels downstream ending in Cahors, home of the Malbec vineyards. You’ll follow quiet trails through unspoilt countryside with rocky cliffs, home to some wonderful chateaux over- hanging majestic valleys. You’ll pass through a number of historic villages such as St-Cirq- Lapopie perched precariously above the river Lot. Walks: day-by-dayDay 1: Arrival – The tour begins in the historic town of Figeac. Straddling the Cele Quiet trails in unspoilt pretty countryside Spectacular chateaux and picturesqueRiver, Figeac is a beautiful town with an unspoilt medieval centre. Take time to explorebefore setting out on your walk through the Quercy countryside. villages perched above the valleys on rocky cliffsDay 2: Beduer - Espagnac Ste Eulalie Follow the majestic Célé and Lot valleysTransfer to the pretty village of Beduer from where the walk will begin. Heading south-west Major pre-historic site at Pech Merle withand passing through glorious, seemingly deserted countryside, the next few days will bespent walking along the Cele Valley. Todays destination is Espagnac Ste Eulalie, via the its cave paintingsvillage of Corn. (10.5km, +/-300m) At a GlanceDay 3: Espagnac Ste Eulalie - Marcilhac GUIDED / INDEPENDENTHaving explored Espagnac, set off for Marcilhac. Walking through fairly rugged terrain, Price: See Price Listbeneath the overhanging Chateau Anglais and via the village of St Sulpice you will arrive atyour accommodation just before Marcilhac. (15km, +/-600m) Grade:Day 4: Marcilhac - Cabrerets Profile:One of the tours longer days, you will follow the Cele Valley to the pretty village of Cabrerets, Dates: 15 April 15 Octsituated at the confluence of the rivers Cele and Lot. Passing through Sauliac with theopportunity to visit the Musee de Cazals. The footpath follows the escarpment bordering thevalley, enjoy exceptional views. (21.2km, +/-500m)Day 5: Cabrerets - St Cirq La PopieLeave Cabrerets for the beautiful village of St Cirq La Popie which appears to defy gravity asit clings to the cliffs that tower over the River Lot. The walk is fairly short but this gives youthe opportunity to visit the world famous cave drawings at Pech Merle shortly after leavingCabrerets, and time to explore St Cirq La Popie later in the day. (12km, +/-350m)Day 6: St Cirq La Popie - VersNow into the Lot Valley. Walking alongside the elegant River Lot todays destination is Vers.Much of the walk today is through deserted countryside. Today also provides the tourslongest incline, a hill in excess of 2kms. (20.5km, +/-220m)Day 7: Vers - CahorsFollow the banks of the River Lot all the way into Cahors via Arcambal. The steep rocky cliffsof the valley now change to a wonderful rolling landscape. Your destination is Cahors, thebustling departmental capital of the Lot, home of the Malbec vineyards. (18km, +/-60m)Day 8 Departure: - After breakfast, explore Cahors before departing. AccommodationPrice p/p See Price List or Web Site for details A mixture of small independent chambre d’hote style guest houses full of quality, auberges and family run 3 Walking 6 days self guided walking, moving between hotels and B&B’s. The star hotels offering a high quality of service. Many are in Profile holiday is graded moderate. The walking days vary in length allowing historic properties, set in wonderful medieval village you time to visit the sights and to recover from the longer days. locations, some have swimming pools. Warm welcome Average days include about 15km walking with daily ascents ranging and gastronomic food. from about 60m to 600m. All the walks are on good paths, although some sections can be muddy and rocky. This holiday would be suitable for regular walkers, as well as occasional walkers with a minimum of preparation. Holiday 7 nights: 6 days self-guided walking, moving between hotels & Profile B&B’s Included 7 nights accommodation, including all breakfasts, four dinners, one transfer at the start of the week, full walking notes and maps, transport of luggageWhat’s not Travel to Figeac, France (accessible by train); all lunches, 3 evening included meals, visits, travel insurance42 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

Tarn’s Medieval BastidesA large number of medieval villages known as Independent Walking Bastides are scattered throughout the Tarn.From high on rocky hilltops, timeless places suchas Puycelsi, Penne, Castlenau, Bruniquel andCordes have kept watch over the surroundingcountryside for centuries. Our self-guided walkingholiday explores these wonderful settlements,many classed as some of the prettiest villages inFrance.The Tarn landscape is a mix of rolling fields andvineyards with expansive views, sunny plateaux,ancient oak forests and deep rocky gorges. Yourcircular trail not only links some of the bestvillages in France but also explores the full rangeof Tarn’s beautiful landscapes, whilst you stay indelightful chambre d’hote style guest houses.Walks: day-by-dayDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at Gaillac station or at your guest house nr Castlenau. Wonderful historic medieval bastidesDay 2: Castlenau - Donnazac including Puycelci, Castlenau and BruniquelClimb to the first of your bastide villages - Castelnau-de-Montmiral. This beautiful village Exploring Cordes-sur-Ciel, considered to behas a central square surrounded by wonderful timber-framed historic houses. Your trailthen continues west through quiet rolling countryside with a patchwork of Gaillac vines one of the best preserved villages in Francedecorating the pretty vistas. After visiting the village of Cahuzac you’ll turn north toDonnazac. 21km, +310m Leisurely walking through varied andDay 3: Donnazac - Cordes-sur-Ciel picturesque landscapesStroll through vineyards, passing historic chateaux and farmsteads to reach the Gaillac vineyards and historic oak forestsremarkable bastide of Cordes-sur-Ciel, widely considered to be the finest fortified village Lovely guest houses & great cuisinein France. Climb into the old town to explore the narrow winding streets and the wellpreserved beautiful gothic and renaissance buildings. 14km, +240m At a GlanceDay 4: Vaour - Bruniquel GUIDED / INDEPENDENT Price: See Price ListTransfer to a small hamlet beyond Vaour. A day of contrasts as you traverse the hills ofthe Causse Magrou before descending to reach the Aveyron Gorge. On the way, climb to Grade:reach the pretty ridge-top village of Penne with its ruined castle. Follow the gorge toreach your next bastide – Bruniquel. Like many of the villages you’ll explore, it is classed Profile:as one of the prettiest villages in France. 17km, +350m Dates: April, May, June, Sept, OctDay 5: Bruniquel - PuycelciYour trail takes you into the forest of Gresigne which is the largest forest in the Tarn andthe greatest oak forest in the South of France. It was also the hunting forests of KingFrançois I. You’ll finish by climbing to another wonderful hilltop village. Puycelci is thearchetypal bastide with its church and houses encircled by protective walls which sit onthe edge of vertical cliffs. 14 – 18km, +380mDay 6: Puycelci - CastlenauYou’ll descend from Puycelci to reach the Vére Valley which you’ll never leave for toolong. Your trail passes through a quiet rural scene of farms, manors and small hamlets.You’ll undulate across a number of small tributary valleys in and out of woods to returnto your guest house near Castlenau. 16km, +330mDay 7: Tour from CastlenauChoice of walks from your guest house, either to the north in the Gresigne forest orsouth into Sivens forest. Plenty of interest throughout in these deciduous forests. Youcan of course choose to relax by the pool at your guest house.Day 8: Departure - Transfer to Gaillac station after breakfast.Price P/P See Price List or Website for details AccommodationWalking 6 self-guided walks, moving between guest houses, except for the A selection of small chambres d’hote style guest houses in Profile last day. The holiday is graded moderate. Good paths, tracks and historic properties, set in wonderful rural surroundings or country lanes on undulating terrain with the odd steeper section. within the walls of medieval villages. Several have swimming Average day: 17km, +330m. Some days include options to vary the pools. Warm welcome and great regional cuisine. Example: walking length and difficulty. Les Vents Bleus - former vineyard; beautiful property & rooms with pool. Warm welcome from Florence & Olivier.Holiday 7 nights: 6 days self-guided walking moving between guest Profile houses. Included 7 nights accommodation, including all breakfasts, 5 evening meals, 6 11 43 lunches, transfers to & from Gaillac train station, one transfer during walk, full walking notes and maps, transport of luggage.What’s not Travel to Gaillac station, France (option to book taxi from Toulouse); included one lunch, 2 evening meals, visits, travel insurance [email protected]

Historic Villages & Valleys of the TarnGuided & Independent H undreds of medieval villages known as Bastides are scattered throughout the Tarn. From high on rocky hilltops, villages Spectacular and varied walking in such as Puycelsi, Penne and Cordes have kept watch over the warm sunshine surrounding countryside for centuries. Our centre-based walking Stunning medieval hilltop towns, plus a holiday in the Tarn will allow you to explore several of these host of historic and cultural delights historic settlements as well as discover the rivers which cut Steep hidden gorges and sweeping through the countryside giving it a distinctive character of deep plateaux with great wildlife rocky gorges, steep wooded valleys and high sunny plateaux. Wonderful guest houses with This holiday is available as both a guided and self-guided trip. welcoming hosts The walking is mixed allowing walkers of moderate ability to At a Glance enjoy the ever changing views and landscapes and see the beauti- GUIDED / INDEPENDENT ful array of wildlife and flowers; the area is particularly well Price: See Price List known for its beautiful orchids thanks to the limestone and Grade: chalky nature of the land. Profile: Walks: day-by-day Dates: April — Oct Day 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Toulouse or Rodez airports for guided holiday Day 2: St Antonin Noble Val Visit St Antonin Noble Val nestled at the opening of the Aveyron Gorge, this beautiful medieval town was the backdrop to the film ‘Charlotte Gray.` We take time to visit the Sunday market before walking up the escarpment and following a path across the Causse or limestone plateau. 12kms +300m Day 3: Cordes sur Ciel Walk around Cordes sur Ciel, widely considered the finest fortified town in France. Climb into the old town to explore the narrow winding streets and see the beautiful gothic and renaissance buildings, which are incredibly well preserved. 15km +360m Day 4: Puycelci & Forest of Gresigne Our walk today starts from Puycelsi, a hilltop town which has maintained a strategic highpoint from prehistoric times, there are both bronze age and Roman remains in the area. The walk drops into the forest of Gresigne which is the largest forest in the Tarn and the greatest oak forest in southern France. Our walk passes through a conservation orchard, a Roman road and the hunting forests of King François I. 16km +350m Day 5: Albi Rest day and a chance to visit the beautiful city of Albi on the banks of the river Tarn. The city is home to Saint Cecile Cathedral, the largest brick built building in the world. There is also the chance to visit the Toulouse Lautrec museum which houses over 1000 of his works or just stroll by the river and relax in one of the numerous cafés and bars. Day 6: Vineyards, sunflowers & chateaux A lovely walk from the pretty village of Cahuzac sur Vere taking in the Gaillac vines, wonderful sunflower fields and historic chateaux such as Mauriac. 17kms +370m Day 7: Najac & Aveyron Take the train north to Najac. Climb to its historic centre which is spread out along the top of a ridge, topped by its castle. Afterwards, follow a section of St James’ Way over hills and then along the Aveyron valley to reach Laguepie. 15kms +320m Other walks Your walking guide (self-guided) will contain a selection of walks in addition to the above which will also take in GR trails, and the villages of Castlenau and Penne. Day 8: Departure for airports or station, if time allows stop off in Cordes market. Price p/p See Price List or Web Site for details. Accommodation Date April - October Walking 6 days guided or self-guided day walks. The walking is mixed You’ll stay in 2 beautiful guest Profile allowing walkers of moderate ability to enjoy the ever changing houses conveniently located for views and landscapes. Some moderate ascents up and down gorges your walks. They are 3 star and hills totalling 350m in a day. Most walks average 5 hrs walking. equivalent, in historic properties The walks can be varied to the fitness of the group on the guided offering an authentic and very holiday. self-guided holiday requires own vehicle to access walks. comfortable stay in B&B style Options to extend walks on self guided holiday. Paths are generally guest houses. The welcome is good, although occasionally rough and steep. warm and generous and the local cuisine and wine is first rate.Holiday Profile 7 nights: 6 days walking based in two guest houses on both holidays What’s 7 nights full board accommodation (except for 2 evening meals). included Pick-up from Toulouse or Rodez airports on guided holiday, all transport for the week on guided holiday, 6 day’s guided walking or walking notes and maps What’s not Travel to pick up points, lunches on arrival & departure days, 2 included evening meals, drinks, any entrance fees, travel insurance44 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

BORDEAUX Classic Wine TrailO ur Bordeaux self-guided wine trail traverses some of Independent Walking the most famous vineyards in the world. Discover a rolling countryside steeped in history, from its 2000- year-old vines planted by the Romans to its wine chateaux and historic villages. Your walking trail starts by exploring the famous St Emilion vineyards home to some of the most sought-after Bordeaux wines. You have the opportunity to have a guided visit of the historic town of St Emilion as well as wine tasting in the Jacobins Convent. Over the following days you'll pass through several more exceptional wine areas such as Sauternes and Entre-Deux-Mers. Easy walking takes you through vines and woodland to the mighty Gironde Estuary where chateaux and fishermen's huts vie for attention. Wine tasting visits are possible along the trail and at the end of each day you'll be warmly welcomed at your quality guest houses and hotels.Walks: day-by-dayDay 1: Arrival – Pick up from Bordeaux or direct to your accommodation in Saint Discover the vineyards of St Emilion, aEmilion, renowned for its wines and historic sites. UNESCO world Heritage Site, as well as many other famous Bordeaux vineyardsDay 2: St Emilion Vineyards circuit Explore the historic village of St EmilionYour first day's walking trail explores the Saint Emilion area. All around the town, thevineyards stretch out on a pretty undulating landscape. Its compact nature is very Guided visits in 7-night holiday pricereminiscent of Burgundy. You will have 2 options for today's circuit, whichever youchoose, there will be opportunities to stop for some wine tasting. 8 or 14km, +70m Easy walking in pretty rolling countrysideDay 3: St Emilion (optional) Beautiful guest houses and hotelsPrivate visit and wine tasting of one of the oldest wineries of the region, followed by a Chance to visit historic city of Bordeauxguided visit of the town of Saint Emilion which forms an amphitheatre with troglodytebuildings built into the limestone rock. Above ground, Medieval buildings line the pretty At a Glancealleyways. End of day, taxi transfer to Caudrot, in “Entre-Deux-Mers” vineyard GUIDED / INDEPENDENTDay 4: Entre-Deux-Mers: Price: See Price ListThe Entre-Deux-Mers region takes its name from its location, nestled between the Grade: OctGaronne and the Dordogne rivers. First planted by the Romans 2000 years ago, Profile:Benedictine monks later established Entre deux Mers’ reputation offering the sweet Dates: Aprilwhite wines to pilgrims on route to Santiago de Compostela. Today you’ll traversegently rolling hills planted with vineyards. Transfer to your accommodation. 15km, Accommodation+100m You’ll stay in a number of charming, spacious andDay 5: Caudrot - St Macaire very comfortable guest houses and hotels full of local character. All rooms have private bathrooms. TheAfter a short transfer, walk along the estuary of the Gironde, passing chateaux and accommodation varies in character between smallfishermens huts. You’ll also visit the small port which marks the start of the “Canal du B&B style guest houses, 3 star country hotels andMidi”, linking the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean. Your trail will lead to the wine producer chateau hotels in historic manors onmedieval city of St Macaire. Dinner and night in hotel in the heart of the town. 10km, vineyards. Example: Chateau de Camperos+25mDay 6: St Macaire & Ste Croix du MontTwo options. From above Saint-Macaire, you will be treated to wonderful scenic views.Your circuit takes you to the 'Domaine de Malagar', residence of the writer FrançoisMauria & tomb of the painter Toulouse Lautrec. You can visit Château Laurette or Châ-teau Loubens (wine producers) before reaching the village of Sainte Croix du Montwhere there are spectacular views of the Garonne Valley. It is also known for its winesand caves, the walls of which are covered by a fossilised oyster bed, formed millions ofyears ago. Transfer by taxi to your guest house in Sauternes. 8km or 16km, +100mDay 7: Sauternes - BarsacToday's trail follows the left bank of the Garonne, where the superior Sauternes winesare produced. You will pass the vineyards of some of the most famous wine producersof the region. As well as chateaux, there are churches, mills and wash houses set in abeautifully varied landscape of vines and forest. Finish the day with an aperitif tastingin the Château Gravas, a wine producer dating from the 12th century. 15km, +60m Day 8: Departure - Breakfast and transfer to Barsac train stationPrice P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsWalking 5 self-guided walks with some circular walks and some between Profile guest houses (& one day visiting St Emilion). There are different walking trail options on several of the days meaning that the walking ranges from easy to easy+. The easier days average about 10km with plenty of time for visits and wine tasting. The maximum distance that you will cover in a day is 15km. The amount of ascent and descent is small, adding up to no more than 100m over the course of the day. The walk takes place on good paths and tracks with the odd section on small lanes.Holiday 7 or 6 nights: 5 days self-guided walking moving between Profile guest houses and one optional day visiting St Emilion Included 7 nights accommodation, including all breakfasts, five dinners, all 11 45 lunches, transfers during the week, full walking notes and maps, transport of luggage, guided visit of St EmilionWhat’s not Travel to Bordeaux and back from Barsac, France; lunches, 2 included evening meals, visits, travel insurance [email protected]

JURA WINE TRAILIndependent Walking L ying to the north of the French Alps, the Jura vine- yards cover a narrow band stretching along the steep slopes leading up to the Jura hills. These slopes are home to a series of dramatic valleys and gorges which harbour medieval towns & villages, stunning waterfalls & dramatic cliffs. Our linear trail follows the vines south, allowing you to discover not only the unique Jura wines, which include the famous Vin Jaune, one of the most prized wines in France, but also historic gems such as Baumes-les- Messieurs and Chateau Chalon. Starting in the historic town of Arbois, your week ends in the amazing reculée or gorge at Baume-les-Messieurs where you have the option of an extra day to explore this natural wonder. Walks: day-by-dayDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at guest house in Arbois. Varied walking that explores the dramaticOptional extra day & night in Arbois gorges & valleys of the Jura wine-making regionExplore the pretty historic town of Arbois famous for its red wines with a number of finehistoric buildings. Then head north to visit the historic village of Montigny les Arsures, home Wine tasting visits in a region famous forof the rare Trousseau grape variety. 11km, +250m its unique winesDay 2: Arbois - Poligny Some of the prettiest villages in France inHead south to the wine-centred village of Pupillin, home of Ploussard grapes. Great viewsover the vines as you traverse the slopes near the edge of the Jura plateau. You’ll pass be- stunning valleys or perched on rocky spurstween vines and forest before arriving above Poligny at the entrance to one of the numerousclosed gorges which eat into the plateau. 15km, +210m Medieval towns, renaissance chateaux &Day 3: Tour from Poligny historic abbeysExplore the pretty town of Poligny and try the local wine in the cave cooperative located in an Stunning waterfalls & abundant wildlifeold church. Optional tour from the town climbing onto the cliffs which surround the town for aseries of wonderful view points. A brief walk on the plateau brings us to the traditional village At a Glanceof Chamole before descending back down to the valley and the old abbey at Vaux sur PolignyTour of the gorge through a wonderful forest with a lost world feel. 15km, +340m GUIDED / INDEPENDENTDay 4: Poligny - Passenans Price: See Price ListFrom Poligny climb back up onto the plateau for amazing panoramic views over Poligny and Grade:then follow the GR59 as it follows the edge of the escarpment. Then descend to pass throughMiery and the pretty village of St Lothain with its 11th century church overlooking the vines Profile:and village. Gradual rise through vines to village of Passenans. 14 - 20km, +400 - 550m. Dates: 15 April 31 OctDay 5: Passenans - Chateau Chalon AccommodationToday’s walk explores a sumptuous landscape of secluded valleys, harbouring quainthistoric villages such as Vau and Frontenay. Vines cling to the steep slopes below the forestcovered plateau above. Chateaux, historic farms and churches decorate the landscapewhilst the villages have retained their historic properties. Your trail also passes throughMenetru les Vignes before reaching the exceptional village of Chateau Chalon built on a clifftop and home to the finest examples of Vin Jaune and Vin de Paille. 9 - 12km, +300 - 370mDay 6: Chateau Chalon - Baume-les-MessieursDescend through vines to reach the beautiful village of Nevy sur Seille. Cross the river andclimb slopes on far side to reach a wonderful ridge which you follow overlooking the vines ofVernois. Descend to reach the magnificent village of Baume les Messieurs with its ancientabbey nestled at the base of towering cliffs. Stay in the abbey building. 9 – 18km, +250mOptional extra day: Reculée de BaumeThis walk explores the reculée (closed gorge) of Baume from above and below, with itsdramatic cliffs, interesting caves and picturesque waterfalls where water and limestone are inpermanent interaction. Located at the valley bottom is the beautiful historic village of Baume-les-Messieurs with its abbey dating from the 10th century. 16km, +/-300m Day 7 Departure - Transfer to Lons le Saunier after breakfast.Price p/p See Price List or Web Site for details. Charming guest houses offering authentic and very comfortable accommodation in B&B’s or small hotels Extra nights available at Baume & Arbois on a B&B basis. where the welcome is warm and generous. Mainly 3 star or higher. They include town houses, old farms, village Walking 5, 6 or 7 days self-guided walking. The walks are moderate in grade. cottages & abbey rooms. Example: Les Jardins sur Profile The average length of walk is about 16km with 375m of altitude gain Glantines in Poligny is a wonderful historic property run (maximum in one day 19km & 470m ascent), although most of the by Nathalie and Ludwig, a wine producer. Large rooms days can be made easier. The paths are generally good, but due to the beautifully decorated. Great food served on the patio or nature of the terrain include some steep and rocky sections where care by the chimney in the 16th century hunting room. is needed. The length of some of the walks can be varied. Holiday 6, 7 or 8 nights: 5, 6 or 7 days independent walking, moving Profile between guest houses Included 6, 7 or 8 night’s accommodation, all breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 evening meals, walking notes and maps, wine tasting information, taxi transfer at end of holiday to Lons le Saunier (extra for transfer to Arbois).What’s not Travel to Arbois & return from Lons le Saunier, France, lunches on included arrival & departure days plus lunches and evening meals not included above, visits, travel insurance46 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

ALSACE - Vineyards & Mountains Independent WalkingO ur independent walking holiday in the Alsace explores two distinct areas: the famous Alsacevineyards and the Vosges hills and valleys that borderthem. The Alsace vines are rightly famous for not onlyproducing a number of unique wines, but also for theirrich architectural and historical heritage. You'll get thechance to explore a number of medieval castles atopstriking outposts and pretty unspoilt villages decoratedwith beautiful floral displays and their cobbled alley-ways lined with typical Alsace houses. All this set in aperfect decor of timeless valleys covered in vines,orchards and woods. Rising to the west are the Vosgesmountains, their slopes providing memorable viewsacross their rounded summits, known as Ballons. Walks: day-by-dayDay 1: Arrival – Arrival at Eguisheim, one of the most beautiful villages on the A week that takes in the full diversity ofwine route; nestling in a wonderful green setting close to three chateaux. the southern AlsaceDay 2: Eguisheim - Turkheim 18km Spectacular chateaux and ruins in a regionThe first ascent leads to three chateaux in Eguisheim and later on to Hohlans- that has a rich historic legacybourg Chateau, offering a panoramic view over Colmar and the Alsace Plainwhich is dotted with numerous pretty villages. You then walk to the extremely Wonderful villages full of local charm &beautiful town of Turkheim which boasts a collection of fine historic buildings. typical of the regionDay 3: Turkheim - Kaysersberg 15km Famous vineyards home of classic \"GrandsToday's walk takes you from Turkheim to Kaysersberg, a pretty town with acharming historic centre, known for its floral displays. Your itinerary traverses Crus\"the vineyards famed for producing the best of the Alsace vintage wines. Explore the picturesque Vosges hills &Optional extra day valleys with unforgettable panoramasOptional extra night at Kaysersberg giving you more time to visit this historictown or to walk to Riquewihr, one of the prettiest historic villages in the region At a Glance(3hrs there and back). GUIDED / INDEPENDENTDay 4: Kaysersberg - Munster 24km Price: See Price ListOn Day 4 you leave the vineyards behind to discover your first summits of thepicturesque Vosges. From Kaysersberg (250m) you reach the village of Grade:Labaroche and the summit of Petit Honack (927m). After the Croix de Whor Pass(840m), the path leads to Munster in the heart of the Vosges Massif. Optional Profile:taxi to reduce distance & ascent. Dates: April OctDay 5: Munster - Wintzfeldon 15kmClimb towards Wassenburg (746m) and the summit of Mühlenkopf (805m)before descending back down to the vines and the village of Wintzfeldon.Day 6: Wintzfeldon - Eguisheim 18kmFor your last day you'll take an extremely beautiful terraced path dominating theRhine Valley, leading gently towards Gueberschwihr (an extremely beautifulvillage). On route to Eguisheim you’ll pass Celtic religious sites and a historicabbey.Day 7 Departure - Transfer to Lyon after breakfastPrice p/p See Price List or Web Site for details Extra night available at KaysersbergWalking 5 or 6 days self-guided walking, moving between hotels. The walking is Accommodation Profile on good tracks and paths mainly in forests and vines with effective way -marking. In general the holiday is at the upper end of moderate in 4 nights in 3 star hotels, 2 nights grade. However it does have its more challenging moments due to a in 2 star hotels, all on half board number of ascents and a day with 25km of walking with considerable basis. The hotels are relatively ascent (optional taxi for this day). Walk lengths: 15 - 25km, Average small guest houses with daily ascent: 700m. This holiday would be suitable for those with some character where you'll be walking experience reserved a warm welcome.Holiday 6 nights: 5 days self-guided walking, moving between hotels Profile Starts everyday except sundays What’s 6 nights' half board accommodation, full walking notes and maps,included transport of luggage between guest housesWhat’s not Travel to Eguisheim, France; lunches, visits, drinks with evening meals, included travel insurance [email protected] 47

Guided Walking Jura Discovery: Wine Trails & Medieval Villages L ying to the north of the French Alps, the Jura form an impressive arc of limestone hills. Our guided walking holiday takes place in the western Jura where a series of dramatic valleys and gorges harbour medieval towns & villages, stunning waterfalls & lakes and a patchwork of vines. Our easy to moderate walks explore these “reculée” from above and below, allowing you to discover historic gems such as Baumes-les-Messieurs, as well as gaining some stunning views. During your week you’ll get to find out about the Jura’s unique wines, such as the famous Vin Jaune, one of the most prized wines in France. Another highlight is visiting the Hérisson valley which contains 7 amazing waterfalls in a 3km stretch. Walks: day-by-day Varied walking that explores the Day 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick-up from Lyon & transfer to Jura. dramatic gorges & valleys of the wine making region & the plateau above Day 2: Baume-les-Messieurs Wine tasting visits in a region famous for This walk explores the reculée (closed gorge) of Baume from above and below, with its dramatic cliffs, interesting caves and picturesque waterfalls where water and limestone its unique wines are in permanent interaction. Located at the valley bottom is the beautiful historic village of Baume-les-Messieurs with its abbey dating from the 10th century. 17km, +/-300m Some of the prettiest villages in France Day 3: Chateau Chalon in hidden valleys or on rocky spurs This walks allows us to visit one of the most famous wine growing areas, as well as two Medieval towns, renaissance chateaux & typical Jura villages, Menetru-le-Vignoble and the charming Chateau-Chalon which perches perilously on top of a limestone escarpment. With its pretty alleyways & typical historic abbeys houses, this village is one of the prettiest in France. Wine tasting in Chateau Chalon. 12km, +350m Stunning waterfalls & abundant wildlife Day 4: Herisson waterfalls & lakes At a Glance We’ll visit the amazing Herisson waterfalls. Fed by a number of lakes, the river drops GUIDED / INDEPENDENT 250m in a series of 31 falls, each cascade being different in character with the highest reaching 65m. After, we can take a short walk along the ridges to get views of this Lake- Price: See Price List land region before relaxing in one of the numerous cafés and bars in the nearby villages. 8km, +300m Grade: Day 5: Arbois Profile: Partial rest day as we visit the fascinating historic town of Arbois, home to one of the Dates: 1 May - 31 Oct vintage wines from the area. Visit the reculée which is guarded by the town and its pretty waterfall. Wine tasting. Day 6: Poligny Our walk today explores the countryside around the historic town of Poligny. Our walk traverses vines before climbing onto the cliffs which surround the town for wonderful views. A brief walk on the plateau before descending back down to the valley where the walk can be extended. 12-15km, +350m Day 7: Vau Today’s walk explores a sumptuous landscape of secluded valleys, harbouring quaint historic villages such as Vau and Frontenay. Vines cling to the steep slopes below the forest covered plateau above. Chateaux, historic farms and churches decorate the landscape whilst the villages have retained their historic properties. 13km, +200m Day 8: Departure - Transfer to Lyon after breakfast.Price p/p See Price List or Web Site for details Date 1 May - 31 October Accommodation Walking 6 guided day walks. The walks are graded moderate. The average Charming 3 star equivalent guest houses or family run Profile length of walk will be 5 hours walking per day or 14km, with 300m of hotels. They are exquisite traditional properties offering altitude gain. The paths are generally good, but due to the nature of an authentic and very comfortable stay with warm the terrain include some rocky sections where care is needed. The welcome. Small groups stay in B&B style guest houses. length of some of the walks can be varied depending on the weather Delicious local cuisine with wine. Example: Relais des and the group's abilities. There will be plenty of chances to rest during Abbesses in Chateau Chalon has great rooms & provides the walks. wonderful cuisine. Holiday 7 nights: 6 days guided walking, staying in two or three guest Profile houses Included Transfers from Lyon to Jura, transport during the week, 7 nights accommodation, all breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 four-course evening meals, wine tasting visits, 6 guided walksWhat’s not Travel to Lyon, France, lunches on arrival & departure days, one included evening meal, other visits, travel insurance48 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk

AMAZING AUVERGNE - Volcanoes, Lakes & Historic VillagesT his walking holiday, available as both a guided & Guided & Independent independent break, explores the Northern Auvergnewhich is home to some of the finest landscapes in France. Theymake for interesting and varied walking with lush greenvalleys sheltering beneath upland ridges and peaks, affordingbreath-taking views in all directions. The Auvergne is alsohome to a number of wonderful medieval churches andbasilicas. There are also many charming historic villages suchas Orcival and Besse, set within sumptuous natural sceneryprotected by a regional natural park. Your walking holidaywill explore many of the features that make up this beautifullandscape including volcanic and glacial lakes, volcanicdomes, rocky cliffs, secluded valleys and dramatic waterfalls.In the north, the Chaine des Puys are a range of 80 geologicallyrecent volcanic domes and cones which stretch to the horizon. Walks: day-by-day Varied and interesting walking throughDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at Lyon or at your guest house. spectacular volcanic landscapesDay 2: Stroll among the volcanoes A region of perfectly preserved volcanicThis circular walk ascends the Puy Pariou in the Puy de Dome area; a remarkable domes easily accessible on footlandscape, unique in Europe. With some volcanoes as young as 7000 years old, thisregion of perfectly preserved volcanic cones lets you walk back in time to an era when Dramatic waterfalls, beautiful lakes and wildlava & hot ash filled the skies. Then ascend Puy de Dome, the highest and mostimpressive of the young volcanoes at 1465m, by train. Site of 1st century Roman mountain sceneryTemple. 12km, +330m Historic villages built from volcanic stoneDay 3: Orcival & glaciated valleys with great ecclesiastical monumentsVisit the pretty historic village of Orcival nestled in a secluded valley and its 12th centurybasilica. This walk also passes chateaux, chapels & historic villages. After climbing away Welcoming guest houses in historic buildingsfrom the historic village of Rochefort Montagne, the trail takes you along a delightfulridge to the edge of a beautiful glaciated valley with great views, before descending to At a GlanceOrcival via a pilgrims path with the Stations of the Cross. 18km, +480m GUIDED / INDEPENDENTDay 4: Descent from Puy de Sancy Price: See Price ListYou’ll take the cable car to the top of the Puy de Sancy, a spectacular summit withamazing views, which is the highest in the whole of the Massif Central, reaching 1885m Grade:(6184ft). After taking in the views you’ll follow the edge of the glacial u-shaped valleyrevealing several summits, dramatic waterfalls and wonderful views. 13km, +500m Profile:Day 5: La Banne d’Ordanche Dates: 20 May - 30 SeptNear Mont Dore, this moderate walk starts by the Col de Guéry where there are greatviews of two volcanic rock towers which stand like sentinels either side of a beautifulglaciated valley. After walking past Lake Guéry you'll ascend by a gentle path to thesummit, offering great views of Puy de Sancy. 14km, +460mDay 6: Lac Chambon, Murol & St NectaireChoice of walks with a chance to visit the medieval chateau at Murol, the village of StNectaire, known for its famous cheese and home of a remarkable 12th century churchand the beautiful lake Chambon.Day 7: Besse & Lake PavinThis walk starts in the historic village of Besse with its town walls and pretty cottagesbuilt from volcanic stone. Follow a pretty glaciated valley to lac Pavin, a remarkablecircular volcanic lake, the youngest volcanic formation in France. A lovely walk around itsrim is followed by a traverse across beautiful countryside. 15km, +290m Day 8: Departure - Transfer to Lyon or holiday ends after breakfast.Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for details AccommodationDates 20 May - 30 Sept You will be staying in at least two, 2 or 3 star equivalent guest houses. TheyWalking 6 guided or independent day walks. The holiday is graded moderate. are traditional Auvergne properties Profile There is the option of making some walks longer or shorter. Longer days offering authentic and comfortable out on the hills can be alternated with easier days exploring the lakes and accommodation in small guest houses villages of the region. The walking notes on self-guided holiday in- or delightful hotels where the welcome clude more walks than are indicated above. Ascents are generally no is warm and generous and the food more than a couple of hundred metres at a time. Average length is about delicious. Example: Auberge de Fondain 15km. All the walks are on good paths, although the upland terrain is at - wonderful house in a remote setting times rocky and requires a degree of surefootedness & a head for heights.Holiday 7 nights: 6 days guided or self-guided walks. Multi-centre Profile based holiday staying in small rural guest houses or hotels What’s 7 nights full board accommodation, (except one evening meal onincluded both holidays), 6 guided walks or walking notes and maps, transfer from Lyon & travel for week on guided holiday onlyWhat’s not Travel to guest house and during the week on self-guided —you’ll need 11 included to have access to a vehicle to drive to the walks each day; lunches 49 on arrival & departure days, visits, travel insurance [email protected]

CANTAL MOUNTAINS: The Rugged Heart of FranceGuided & Independent I n the southern Auvergne, the Cantal massif is the extinct remains of one of the largest volcanoes in Europe. Erosion by ice and water has since created a series Sumptuous landscape of wild and rugged of ridges, peaks and valleys of stunning beauty that you'll simply never tire of. Beautiful U-shaped valleys radiate ridges, elegant peaks & glaciated valleys outwards defined by rugged and airy ridges that emanate from rocky summits. The rich green mountains have a wild Exciting and dramatic walks which take untamed feel. you off the well trodden paths onto rocky The Cantal has a rich historical legacy through its rural ridges and airy summits settlements and farms. The local architecture is simple yet easy on the eye; the sturdy cottages blending seamlessly into A rich upland flora and fauna the mountainous backdrop. The area is also a haven for An important rural heritage with wildlife, including birds of prey, deer, marmots, mouflon, chamois and a host of wild flowers. picturesque well preserved villages Walks: day-by-day A unique holiday, created to experience Day 1: Arrival – Welcome & transfer from Murat train station or agreed pick up on the finest Cantal walks and landscapes guided holiday. At a Glance Day 2: Puy de Niermont GUIDED / INDEPENDENT A fairly easy ascent to ease you into the week. Once you’ve climbed out of the glaciated Price: See Price List valley you’ll follow a picturesque ridge to the summit for fabulous 360° views, providing a good overview of the Cantal Mountains. Afterwards, explore the unique landscape of the Grade: Limon plateau with moors and pastures, punctuated by small hills and valleys. 6hrs, +630m Profile: Day 3: Puy Griou Dates: 15 May - 15 Oct The Puy Griou is a beautiful isolated volcanic peak. Those who have a good head for heights can go to its top for great views. Explore the beautiful Jordanne Valley and also summit Puy Usclade for unique panoramas. 5hrs 30, +810m Day 4: Puy Mary A great walk that takes in the summit of the Puy Mary, the emblematic mountain of the Cantal range. You'll climb to the Col de Cabre from your B&B before following an amazing and dramatic ridge (pictured above) with a small section of scrambling. You’ll then ascend the Puy Mary. The summit and descent ridge provides some of the finest views in the Cantal. You’ll then descend an isolated glaciated valley back to your B&B. 6hrs 30, +820m Day 5: Rest day, visit Murat or optional small walks A chance to relax at your guest house or visit the local historic market town of Murat. Day 6: Puy de Peyre Arse A great day for those who enjoy aesthetic mountain routes away from the main paths. You’ll ascend the superb, rocky north east ridge of the Puy de Peyre Arse. This is a beautiful ridge ascending 700m, leading almost directly from the B&B to its lofty summit. After a moderate descent you’ll scale the various summits of the Puy Bataillouse to complete this fabulous horseshoe. 6hrs, +1050m Day 7: Cirque du Falgoux & Puy Tourte A beautiful and wild ridge which follows one side of the cirque du Falgoux all the way to Puy de Tourte opposite Puy de Mary. Great panoramic views throughout. 7hrs, +850m Other walks: On self-guided holiday your walking guidebook will provide instructions for other walks such as a traverse of Puy Chavaroche, starting from the pretty historic village of Mandailles in the beautiful Jordanne Valley. Day 8: Departure - Transfer to Murat after breakfast Price p/p See Price List or Web Site for details Accommodation Dates 15 May - 15 October On our Cantal walking holiday you'll be based at La Boudio on the edge of the Santoire Valley. It is a small guest Walking 6 days self guided or guided walking. This holiday will suit those people who house on a historic farm, restored to Profile enjoy following mountainous ridges and standing on lofty summits. The daily create an ideal retreat at the foot of walks range from 12 - 20km with an average of 800m of ascent. (Maximum the Cantal Mountains. The guest house daily ascent 1050m). The terrain is mountainous with paths which are gen- provides authentic & comfortable en- erally good although they can be rough, stony & less well-defined in places. suite accommodation in an exceptional Also minor sections where you will need to use your hands for stability or location. Meals are taken in your guest progression. Alternative paths to these sections will be detailed in the notes. house and are tasty local dishes. Warm Some walking experience in mountainous terrain is advisable. You should welcome. have a good head for heights and be surefooted. Walking notes contain additional choice of walks to those described above. Holiday 7 nights: 6 days independent or guided walking. One centre Profile based holiday. Included 7 nights' full board accommodation, transfer from Murat or agreed pick up point on guided holiday, transport to start of two walks for self-guided and full transport for guided, full walking notes and mapsNot included Travel to Murat or Lyon, France; lunches on arrival & departure days, visits, travel insurance50 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk