HIGH POINT HOLIDAYSGuided & Independent Walking Holidays Where the experience is everything 2017
High Point Holidays Where the Experience is EverythingBaronnies Guided 2016Cover photo: QueyrasW elcome to the 2017 edition of our Walk- If you’ve yet to come on one of our walking holidays, I’d ing Holidays Brochure. just like to tell you a bit about our philosophy. We aim to provide a genuine opportunity for you to feel part of There are some important changes to tell you the local way of life through our choice of accommoda-about for 2017. tion, many of which provide full or half board making our holidays excellent value for money. Quality of ser-But first, what’s New for 2017. vice and standards are never compromised in providing the High Point experience and we are committed toWe have several new self guided walking holidays in bringing you a personal and flexible service to help youFrance including an addition to our Beaujolais holi- get the most out of your holiday. Our aim is to makedays, Lyon’s Beautiful Secluded Hills; a walking your holiday the High Point of your year.trail through a landscape of gentle rolling hills from thesouthern Beaujolais to the edge of the Cote du Rhone For those new to High Point Holidays, we hope you’llvines. We also have a new wine trail in the Rhone Val- enjoy browsing our walking holidays which range fromley, a region of beautiful landscapes as well as classic gentle strolls through beautiful vineyards to challengingwines - Cote du Rhone Wine Trail. We have a flexi- mountain treks. There are walks to suit all tastes andble (you choose number of days and locations) self- abilities and most of our holidays can be tailored toguided holiday in the Baronnies and a wonderful trek match your requirements. So please don't hesitate tothrough the High Pyrenees (Traversing the Pyre- contact us to help us create that perfect holiday.nees National Park). Also we have a new circulartrail in the Alps, Grand Tour of the Ubaye, as well as All our cycling holidays can be viewed online and in aguided Snow Shoeing in the Queyras. separate brochure on request. Also excluded from the brochure are a handful of self-guided holidays andFor this year we have taken the decision to cease of- some destinations, such as Morocco and Spain wherefering our scheduled guided walking holidays; that is we can run guided walks for private groups. If you areto say, small group holidays with set dates. part of a walking group, then we can cater for larger numbers, as we have successfully arranged self guidedHowever, we will still be offering guided walking holi- and guided bespoke holidays in recent years.days to ‘private’ groups of 4 or more people on a dateof their choice. Occasionally, where several singles or Thanks Again to everyone of you that walked or cy-couples have expressed an interest in a guided holi- cled with us in 2016.day, we may be able to organise a trip for a date thatsuits and advertise the week for others to join. This We look forward to hearing from you soon.will be subject to minimum numbers and availability.Please also note that our holiday prices are now William Armstrong - Partneron a separate ‘price list.’ For the first time, becauseof the volatility of the pound against the Euro, we re-tain the option to update our prices during the courseof the year. However, once you’ve booked and theprice in pounds is agreed, unless indicated to you, thenthis price will be the price you pay on final payment. On the price list, as well as on our web site you will see there is also be a price in Euros. Our non-UK cus- tomers can choose to pay in Euros 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 Off the Beaten Track We take a look at a walking holiday in the little known area of Provence, the Baronnies7 Wine Trails Chardonnay wine is known all over the world but its home is in southern Burgundy where you can discover our unique wine trail8 More Beaux Villages Discover the rich variety of beautiful villages that you can visit on our French walking holidays10 Choosing your Walking Holiday Our guide to choosing the holiday that’s right for you, including guided versus independent, other options and walking grades13 Holiday Diary 2017 Suggestions for when to walk and where, plus a selective list of festivals and events to tie in with your walking holidays15 Walking Holidays in France Our walking holidays in France by region, with a map and a full directory list to help you find your perfect holiday58 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 moreinformation about all of our holidays on our web site: [email protected]. www.highpointholidays.co.uk High Point Holidays 5 Enfield Drive Keep up to date with us on: Evercreech Shepton Mallet Facebook: www.facebook.com/HighPointHolidays Somerset BA4 6LL Twitter: https://twitter.com/HighPointWalks Pinterest: http://uk.pinterest.com/highpointhols/[email protected] 3
The High Point Holidays’ ExperienceO ur walking holidays have been designed to let you enjoy the best a region has to offer, avoiding, where possible, main tourist routes. We choose destinations where distinct local identity thrives and in France, with its astonishing regional variety, you'll discover these differences in culture, history, architecture, wildlife, landscapes and food. We aim to make you feel part of the local way of life with our choice of small guest houses. We look for traditional guest houses in beautiful surroundings, where a personal, friendly service is guaranteed and where great authentic local food and drink is on offer. Small guest houses, big welcome Wonderful Regional CuisineOur choice of guest houses is synonymous with High Point's Our holidays are all about home cooked localphilosophy. We use small independent guest houses, often set specialities lovingly prepared with fresh regionalin magnificent surroundings, with their own unique character. produce, sometimes grown on the farm whereChosen for the friendliness of the hosts as well as their charm you’re staying. Most evening meals are 4-courseand quality. Whether it's showing you around their historic set menus taken in your guest house where you’llproperty, or a visit to their cellar to try the wine from their get to try original and delicious dishes. Meals invineyard, they will take great pleasure in making your stay the B&B’s are great experiences, where you shareextra special and may provide you with some useful tips for your table with your hosts and other travellers thatyour following day's activities. may be staying in the guest house. You will enjoy a convivial evening with great food, washed down\"The huge plus factor for me was the opportunity to stay with by the local wine.a family. It was a unique chance to stay in a private home,share a meal with the hosts and chat about all manner of Breakfasts are also the occasion to discover thethings. We felt part of the country, and not just that we were local specialities. Depending on the particularskimming the surface. We were delighted and amazed we got guesthouse and the culinary inspiration of youron so well with people. Local produce, regional dishes, home host, you'll enjoy home-made jams and pastries,cooking all contributed. In general the holiday fulfilled all our fresh farmhouse bread, local cheeses and dairyexpectations and provided much more!\" J Kay, UK products, and regional cold meats. If picnic lunches are included in your holiday, they are\"Overwhelmed by the level of hospitality received. We have usually supplied by your hosts and will takewalked with other companies in France but this was by far the different forms depending on the holiday. Home-best. A thoroughly enjoyable experience.\" S Adkins, UK made quiches, salads, pasta dishes or sandwiches using fresh local produce. High Point Holidays' Accommodation of the Year This year we are delighted to announce that the winner of our Accommodation of the Year award is Le Moulinou located within the parish of Moudeyres on the upland plateau of the Haute Loire. Over the last 12 months we have used our customer feed- back along with our own experience to judge all our accom- modation 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.4 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk
Focus on the AuvergneLucia & William: Le MoulinouLe Moulinou is a unique 5 bedroomed guest house located within the parish ofMoudeyres on the upland plateau of the Haute Loire in France run by Lucia Toebes.At an altitude of 1235m, le Moulinou is situated on a plateau rising towards the volcanicsummits of Mont d'Alambre and Mont Mezenc. This guest house is used on ourindependent walking holiday: Tranquil Auvergne Trail. See page 51.As soon as you go through the door from the old stables into the reception room youare transported into a beautifully restored world of wood and stone. The floor of thisentrance hall, which provides access to some rooms, is covered in massive volcanicflagstones and the walls are exposed volcanic stone. There is also a lounge on theground floor with an open log fire.The first floor of Le Moulinou has been equally perfectly restored and is located withinthe roof space with exposed wooden beams. Each room has its own character wherewood and stone are often exposed.Lucia cooks tasty local dishes from fresh local produce as well as the odd more exoticcourse. Evening meals start with an aperitif before starter, main dish, cheese platterand dessert. Wine is included with the meal.To the rear of the house is a large garden which catches the evening sun and makes fora great place to relax after your day's walk.Customer Comments Le Moulinou: see Tranquil Auvergne Trail. La Boudio: see Cantal Mountains: RuggedLe Moulinou Heart of France.“Moulinou was extraordinary: Lucia theperfect hostess, generous, felt like being in Christine and Jean-François: La Boudiosomeone’s home. Great Jacuzzi! Pretty &comfortable rooms. Great food. Great La Boudio is at an altitude of 1100m in the Santoire Valley, in the heart of thecharacter.” J. Baker Cantal at the foot of the Puy Mary, and is ideal accommodation for exploring this stunning area. Christine and Jean-Francois will share with you their\"Lucia was brilliant. I liked the sociability of knowledge and love for this wild and unspoilt corner of France.many nations around a table sharing a Christine serves up delicious evening meals that are a combination of homemeal. Lucia's language skills quite extraor- cooked classics as well as traditional Auvergne dishes such as truffade.dinary.\" J. Goddard Bedrooms are comfortable ensuites decorated with a mixture of timber and exposed stone with views of the garden and river. Guests can relax in theirLa Boudio lounge with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.“Thank you for that warm welcome, thehospitality! We felt like in a family home.You create a perfect chemistry betweenthe guests, the house and you, well done !! 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 modest than customers coming back year afterbudget. Many of the holidays are full board and We seek to ensure customer satisfac- year because they enjoy the authenticall prices are based on 2 people sharing a tion with our holiday arrangements. and personalised High Point experi-room, unless otherwise stated; a single If you have any specific comments or ence.supplement being payable for single travellers concerns relating to a holiday, thenor those not wishing to share a room. please don't hesitate to contact us. That's why we reward returning cus- tomers for their loyalty. A ReturningWith the exception of local transfers, travel to In order to ensure the continued im- Customer qualifies for a 2.5% discountthe holiday destination is not included in the provement of our holidays, we kindly on their holiday and subsequent holi-holiday package, allowing you to make your ask that you complete an evaluation days; 5 trips qualifies for a one off 5%own arrangements and therefore benefit from form at the end of your holiday. discount and 2.5% on subsequent holi-any low cost flights or special deals offered by days and 10 trips also qualifies for aferry companies. one off 5% discount and 2.5% on sub- sequent holidays. See website forWe aim to be clear and transparent as to what Terms and Conditions.is included in the price of the holiday, seeindividual holidays for details. [email protected]
Off The Beaten TrackMost of our holidays take place in quiet, unspoiltWild Francedestinations where a distinct local identity thrives.Walking in these off the beaten track places meanquiet trails and beautiful landscapes that have littlechanged over the years.We have singled out some highlights from our Secret Provence:walking holiday in a little known corner of Provence:Secret Provence, Tour of the Baronnies TOUR OF THE BARONNIES “We had a great me seeing parts of Provence we would never have known.” A. Gilliver.“Accommoda on was higher standard than I expectedand a real treat...a real bespoke service and a desire tobe off the beaten track—my kind of holiday and a real gem.” S. Macfarlane Weather with You The Baronnies has over 300 days of sun- shine a year making it an ideal destination for a walking holiday. Sheltered by the mountains, its position and distinct climate give the region a remarkable light.Senses Working Overtime Avenues & Alleyways The Baronnies is a region where wild All Kinds of Everything The historic legacy of the region is rich;Thyme, Lavender, herbs and pine produce a Hannibal, the Carthaginian leader,wonderfully scented landscape. Each corner The double influence of the Alps and theof this fascinating area has its own charac- Mediterranean has created an exceptionally crossed the Baronnies with his elephants rich fauna and flora including orchids such around 200BC. There are a large number teristics. Rocky bluffs and cliffs define as the Sabot de Venus, vultures, chamois, summit tops from which steep slopes of well-preserved fortified medieval marked by ravines descend into narrow wolves and wild boar. villages clinging to steep hillsides. Their gorges or wide fertile valleys covered in towers, walls and alleyways altered by a Lavender, fruit trees and olive groves. Oak succession of historic events that have forests, scrub and moorland add to the marked the region. One of the prettiest tapestry of vegetation covering the hills. and most spectacular is Montbrun-les- SELF GUIDED Bains.Grade: or More Off the Beaten TrackProfile: 6 days walking between guest houses. Walking Holidays:Graded as moderate or moderate/challenging de-pending on your choices. The moderate grade has Tranquil Auvergne Trail Page 51average distances of 14km with 350m of ascent.There is one rest day and one longer day at 20km Quieter Side of Dordogne:with 760m of ascent. Challenging grade includes the Villages of Correze Page 45options of ascending two summits and doing a walkon the rest day. Some small sections can be quite Beautiful Brionnais: Secret Hillssteep & it would be unwise to do this holiday if you of Burgundy Page 23suffered from vertigo. Paths are generally good andwell defined. Pyrenees Balcony Trail: Azun Valley Page 34What’s Included: 7 nights' Full Board accommo-dation. Full walking notes and maps, transport ofluggage between guest houses6 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk
OUR WINE TRAILS CHARDONNAY WINE TRAILFrance produces many of the best wines in the world. What’s on the Menu ∗ Wine Tas5ngCombine this with gourmet cuisine, some beautiful ∗ Gourmet Foodlandscapes and unique cultural treasures and you have the ∗ Beau5ful Chateauxrecipe for a memorable walking holiday. Here’s one we ∗ Ancient Sitescooked up earlier, our traverse through the heart of the ∗ Medieval Villageschardonnay wine growing region in beautiful southern ∗ Deligh&ul Guest HousesBurgundy: our Chardonnay Wine Trail “The most enjoyable walking holiday we have had in France -easy to follow guidance notes, splendid & varied accommoda on - a wonderful overall experience. Would not hesitate to recom- mend to fellow walkers.\" C & M. Duck\"This holiday has far exceeded our expecta ons and hope we will return to experience another region of France. Good to be out of the main tourist areas.\" E Hodgson For Starters 6 Nights, 5 days walkingThe trail begins, where else, but the pre:y village of Chardonnay that lends its name to the famous grapes. Traversing through chardonnay vines the trail reaches Ozenay with its chateau andbeau5ful 12th century church. You'll then climb to the medievalfortress of Brancion before following ridgelines and valleys above the Chardonnay vines. Main A:rac5ons The trail passes the beau5ful chateau at Cruzille before following a vine covered valley all the way to the pre:y village of Lugny. Your route keeps to the slopes above the valley bo:oms providing lovely views. You'll then have the chance to visit the caves at Azé an important site for primi5ve man, 400,000 years ago. From Igé the trail takes you through a mixed landscape of vines and pasture, and over hills to the imposing chateau at Berzé le Chatel with its 13 towers. The trail con5nues passing through a number of pre:y villages such as Berzé-la-Ville and Milly Lamar5ne. You can also visit the beau5ful 12th century chateau at Pierreclos with wine tas5ng. More Wine Trails SELF GUIDED Your Just Desserts Grade: We also have a number of other The final days walking traverses elegant vine covered slopes of thedeligh&ul Wine Trail walking holidays: Profile: 5 walks moving between most famous vines of this part of Burgundy - Pouilly-Fuissé. Your walking trail takes you through picturesque countryside and past theBeaujolais Wine Trails: Grand Cru and guest houses. Different walking Roche de Solutré, home of one of the most important pre-historicChateaux & Medieval Villages Page 17 op5ons on 3 of the days . Easier sites in Europe and which op5ons: average of about 15km with you have the chance to Jura Wine Trail Page 54 less than 300m ascent per day, mod- ascend for amazing pano- erate op5ons: average 18km and ramic views from itsNEW Cote du Rhone Wine Trail Page include some extra ascents. Good summit. You then have a 26 paths, tracks & small lanes. choice of routes to take you to your wonderful Side Orders What’s Included: Airport & sta5on guest house at Fuissé located on a vineyard Addi5onal night available at Fuisse transfers from Lyon, 6 nights' accom- where you can try their for addi5onal walk. Our Beaujolais moda5on. All breakfasts, 4 picnic quality Pouilly-Fuissé and Wine Trail can also be booked to lunches and 4 evening meals. Walk- Saint Véran wines. follow on at the end of this holiday ing notes and maps, transport of luggage between guest houses. [email protected] 7
More Beaux VillagesA total of about 155 villages across mainland France havebeen given the pres5gious 'most beau5ful villages ofFrance' award. Let’s introduce you to a few more of ourfavourites. Montbrun-les-Bains Semur-en-BrionnaisAs you climb the hill to enter Montbrun, Saint-Veran Situated on a ridge in southern Burgun-built on 6 levels on a steep hillside, you'll dy, Semur-en-Brionnais is the historicwalk through the clock tower emerging into In the heart of the Queyras Regional Park capital of the Brionnais region. Thisthe upper village with its 16th century cob- at a height of 2042m, Saint-Véran is the former stronghold of Saint Hugues,bled alleyways and stone houses. The ex- founder of Cluny Abbey, has heritagetensive remains of its chateau sit on top of highest inhabited village in Europe. The vil- aplenty with a 9th century fortified cas-the hill overlooking a valley bathed in lav- lage retains its traditional buildings built tle and square keep, and a superb Rom-ender. The narrow streets lead from one with wood and stone and tiled with slate. anesque Church of Saint Hilaire with itsfountain to the next, down to the bottom of tower displaying eight arches and col-the village where the pump rooms have Most of the dwellings are separate from one umns. Its old houses with their almostgiven a new lease of life to an ancient another allowing the sun to penetrate be- pinkish hue and its Romanesque build-spring. You'll have plenty of time to explore tween the houses and along the roads. The ings surrounded by vine covered slopesthis fascinating village before making the sunshine is an important theme in Saint make this a beautiful location. See pageshort walk to your beautiful guest house on 23 for Beautiful Brionnais: Secret Hillsour self guided walk in the Baronnies. See Véran with around 20 historic buildings hav- of Burgundy.article Off the Beaten Track on page 6. ing sun dials painted on their walls. Many date back to the renaissance, with one of the most impressive being on the wall of the church. The village is an important stop-over for many alpine walks and treks. See page 36 for Tour of Queyras: An Alpine Secret8 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk
View from Montbrun-les-Bains Baumes-les-Messieurs Château Chalon in the Church of St Hilaire, Semur-en-Brionnais Jura see page 54 Najac Château-Chalon Najac is on a steep promontory withChâteau-Chalon is the birthplace of the an impressive fortress situated 200famous Vin Jaune (\"yellow wine\") made metres above the Aveyron riverfrom late harvest grapes. Perched on a offering breathtaking views. Thecliff in the first fold of the Jura Moun- fortress is a fine example of militarytains, the village has wonderful views architecture from the middle-ages.across the vineyards. The village grew up At the west end of the village is thearound the castle, that it gets its name 13th century Church of Saint Johnfrom, and the Benedictine abbey, but all the Evangelist, one of the first gothicthat remains of these are the keep and churches in the province which con-the Romanesque church of Saint Pierre. tains a processionary cross from thatSee pages 54 & 56 for Jura Wine Trail century. See page 48 for Historicand Jura Discovery. Villages & Valleys of the Tarn. Castelnaud-la-Chapelle 10km from Sarlat, Castelnaud-la- Chapelle overhangs the confluence between Dordogne and Céou rivers in an exceptional landscape opposite the beautiful villages of Beynac-et-Cazenac and La Roque-Gageac. Chateau Castelnaud, with its museum of medie- val warfare, is the most visited castle in southern France. The village itself with its typical Périgord architecture is also worth discovering. See page 45 for Delights of Historic Dordogne.Walking through the vines near Chateau Chalon [email protected] 9
Choosing Your Walking HolidayO ur destinations are chosen for their beautiful scenery and the holidaysare designed to let you discover the realidentity of that region; allowing you timeto appreciate its unique cuisine, architec-ture, history, culture, wildlife and scenery.We like to highlight each day's walkingwith, for example, a breathtaking vista oran architectural treasure. Each holidaydescription includes a bullet pointedsummary of some of its highlights. Optionsfor interest include: Coastal - Mountains - Waterfalls & Lakes - Wine Tasting and Vines - Historic Villages - WildlifeIf you have a specific interest and not sure which “We certainly all had a brilliant time thanks to thewalking holiday to choose please don't hesitate to magnificent efforts you made for us. The experi-give us a call to discuss your options, or drop us ences you set up over and above the pleasure ofan e-mail with an outline of what you're looking for. the walks were beyond all expectations and I should like to reiterate my sincere thanks to youOn our website you can find information on the climate of theregion you have chosen to explore, as well as some indications of for everything.”ideal times of the year to visit, whether that's to see thelavender in bloom, the wine harvest or the autumn colours. We B. Wombwell, Wokingham Health Walkshave a Holiday Diary (pages 13-14) with some seasonal guidesto help you decide. Walking Groups: Guided or Independent Walking? Our guided walking holidays are ideal for groups of friends who enjoy walking as well Guided Walking Holidays as the more formal walking clubs that wish to explore further afield. Guided walking holi- If you've not been on a walking holiday before and therefore days are generally available for groups of inexperienced in navigation or using maps or walking notes, between 4 and 24 people. The type of then maybe a guided holiday is for you. However the decision accommodation used and the price of the may not be that simple. Here's some help. holiday will depend on the number in the group. We like to use smaller, more informal Your Guide's local knowledge and experience: guest houses, where possible for our holidays, but this won’t be feasible with Your guide will make sure you make the most of your holiday larger groups. through professional, informative and supportive leadership. As well as ensuring safe progression, the leader will bring to life Individuals or Small Groups: the region, through his passion and knowledge on such sub- jects as history, geology, food and wine. We only use experi- If you wish to go on one of our guided walk- enced guides that are resident in the country. The guide will ing holidays but are travelling on your own or pace the day so that there will be plenty of time to take pho- as a couple, then we may still be able to help tos, relax and soak up the atmosphere. you with your holiday plans. We can seek to form a group with other people who have Bilingual Guides: contacted us with the same interests, or you may be able to join an existing group who If you can, for example speak a little French, you maybe more are open to new additions. Once we have a confident to try out your grasp of the language with your hosts few people interested in a particular holiday in the knowledge that your guide can help you out. Some of with a specific week in mind we will then ad- the French B&B owners speak English, but having a bilingual vertise the holiday to fill the remaining places guide can certainly help you out with communication and available. We will generally not confirm the therefore your enjoyment of your holiday. holiday until the minimum number of 4 people has been reached. Flexibility: Flexibility around local situations or circumstances by changing the itinerary where appropriate. For example if the weather was very wet and everyone agreed that they did not want to do the day's walk, the guide can provide transport to a location to look around an abbey or castle. Your guide can also help in terms of understanding the best routes for the group’s inter- ests and abilities.10 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk
Self-Guided Walking Holidays Walking GradesIndependence and Flexibility: When choosing your walking holiday you need to consider whether the amount and difficulty of theOn an independent walking holiday, you're walking is a good match to your abilities andjust that...independent. We will try to accom- experience. We grade all our walks from Easy tomodate whatever your group number, bearing Challenging based on the daily hours walked, thein mind availability of accommodation. If you amount of ascent and descent, and the type ofwant to get up late, want to take a detour, it's terrain. We then give a recommendation as to theall up to you... as long as you can get your- walker's experience and fitness for each grade.selves to the next B&B. Some walking holidayshave several days at the same accommoda- EASYtion, so then it's really is up to you if one dayyou decide you need a break from walking and Less than 5 hours walking per day at a gentle pacewant to explore the local village or town. We with less than 400m (1300 feet) ascent/descent.also endeavour to offer flexibility into the Generally good paths on undulating terrain with gentleindependent walking holidays with our walking gradients. Anybody in reasonable health should enjoynotes providing you with choices, where this grade of walking. No previous walking experienceavailable. For most of our self guided walking required.holidays, you can start your holiday on theday of your choosing, subject to availability of MODERATEcourse. Walks of between 4-6 hours, with the odd longer day Maps & Personalised Walking Notes and less than 700m (2400 feet) ascent/descent. Generally on good paths although there could be steep- We provide you with detailed local 1/25000 walking maps. er sections with rough conditions underfoot. You should You will also be provided with our detailed walking notes have experience of day walking, and be in reasonable which as well as being regularly updated are personalised for health. Average daily distances are about 15-20km. each customer. The trail description itself is very detailed, to leave you in no doubt about where you need to go next. The MODERATE/ walking notes provide information you won't find in a guide- CHALLENGING book with local sights to see, some of which require a detour and it's up to you whether you make the effort to go. They Walks of between 5-7 hours, with up to 1000m (3300 contain all the essential information you'll need to ensure a feet) ascent/descent in the day. Mountainous or rough relaxed and hassle-free holiday. They include: paths, with some long steep sections. There could be limited back-packing, carrying overnight gear for 1Walking Notes Local Interests Practical Information night. You should have recent experience of day walk- ing in hilly terrain, be surefooted and have a reasona-Detailed Trail History Guest Houses ble level of fitness. On some holidays a good head forDescription heights and previous mountain walking experience may Culture Emergency Contacts be necessary.Distances Architecture DoctorsTimings Historic Monuments Chemists CHALLENGINGWalking Grade Economy MarketsAltitude Gains Food & Drink Post Office Walks of between 5-8 hours, with altitude gains of overWay Markings Wildlife Cash Points 1000m per day involving prolonged ascents/descents.Alternative Routes Mountainous paths with sections of rough mountainous terrain and easy scrambling (using hands for stability Luggage Transfers and assistance). These holidays may be made more difficult by factors such as altitude, limited backpackingWhether you choose a Guided or Self Guided Walking or the occasional very long day. You should be a regu-Holiday, with the exception of any backpacking treks in the lar walker with mountain walking experience, with aAlps, we provide a luggage transfer service. This means good level of fitness and a good head for heights.that you only need to carry the most essential items withyou in your day rucksack, safe in the knowledge that yourluggage will be ready at your next overnight stop. [email protected] 11
Choosing Your Walking Holiday Other Holiday Options Holiday ProfileTailor-Made Independent Walking In addition to the information presented in thisFound an independent holiday you like the look of, but section and on our directory page, eachwant to make it longer or shorter? No problem, let us specific holiday page has some summary infor-know and we can adjust the beginning or end of your mation and symbols to help you identify asholiday and arrange another activity if you wish (such as rapidly as possible whether the holiday is righta wine tasting course) or just allow you more time to for you. This information is explained here.explore the local town or village. There will be somesuggestions on alternatives to tailor your holiday on our At a Glance See Page 11website. For larger groups we can, in some instances, for info oncreate a holiday in a new area just for you. So don’t GUIDED / INDEPENDENT walkinghesitate to get in touch to find out how we can help you. Price: See Price List grades Grade:Tailor-Made Guided Walking Profile:We have experience of providing guided walking holidays Dates: March Octoberin France as well as further afield and usually cater forgroups of 4 to 24 walkers. Although there are many guid-ed walking holidays detailed in this brochure, if there areparticular options or changes you are looking for, pleasecontact us to discuss. In addition we also have a numberof guided holiday destinations which are not covered byour brochure. These include the Atlas Mountains and Sa-hara Desert in Morocco and the Picos de Europa in Spain,as well as a large number of destinations in France.Self Catering Walking HolidayIf you have a limited budget or are a group or family thatwould rather be in one location for the full length of yourholiday, then you could consider self catering. On our websiteyou will find a number of self catering options in differentlocations. We supply you with information about the area aswell as suggested walks and then you can do as much or aslittle walking as you wish.Made to Measure HolidayYou have an idea for a holiday, but would like help organisingit? We can help bring your ideas to life. Thanks to our networkof specialist partners we can create a range of activity orrelaxation holidays in France. Here are some suggestions:Horse riding in the Burgundy Thermal spa relaxation in AlpsHills or Massif Central Type of HolidayHot air ballooning Wine tasting courses in Guided Walking Holiday Burgundy or BeaujolaisMountain Biking in Visiting the city of LyonBeaujolais Independent Walking Holiday Centre Based or multi-day circuit Walking between guest houses on most days Centre based, staying in one, two or three guest houses with circular day walks A mixture of centre based circular day walks and moving between guest houses 1112 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk
Holiday Diary 2017January March MayThought the Alps in winter was all The Calanques National Park on the The height of spring is a great timeabout skiing? Well, think again. If Provence coast is an ideal early to visit the stunning waterfalls andyou are a small group of between 4 spring break. Enjoy stunning dramatic gorges of the Jura or theand 8 looking for some winter sun scenery and views where impressive panoramic landscape of the beautifuland wonderful landscapes, why not cliffs surround wonderful drowned Beaujolais region and taste theirtry snow shoeing in the Alps. We valleys. Tip: If you are looking for contrasting wines. See pages 17-21have guided holidays for novices as quiet trails and empty beaches,well as those looking for something March is a great month to choose,more challenging. See page 44. with only the first week coinciding with French school holidays. See page 28.February April European Museum Night in France, where closing time of theOur self-guided walking holidays get Spring truly gets under way in all museums is postponed to aboutunder way. Walk the Pyrenees but the higher altitudes. If you’re 1am, allowing the public to visit byCoastal Trail between France and looking for warm weather, quiet night, for free and see their collec-Spain. The Mediterranean sea keeps trails and stunning medieval villages tions in a different, unusual andthe Catalan coast mild, even in then why not take a look at either of more sensory way.winter and pleasantly warm in the our moderate walking holidays inSpring and Autumn. See page 27. the Luberon in Provence or the In the UK Tarn in south west France. See pages 33, 47 & 48. 26 May – 10 June Salisbury International Arts Festival is one of the most res- pected arts festivals in the UK. Combine with our Wessex holiday - Page 58 June In the UK, 21 - 25 June Glastonbury Festival of Contem- porary Performing Arts takes place in Pilton, Somerset. In addition to contemporary music, the festival hosts dance, comedy, theatre, cir- cus, cabaret, and other arts. Glas- tonbury is the largest greenfield fes- tival in the world, and is now attend- ed by around 175,000 people. West Mendips Explorer, page [email protected] 13
Holiday Diary 2017June July SeptemberAs summer arrives so the mountain- Tour de France 2017 will be the In the UKous regions of France shed their win- 104th edition of this most famous 31 Aug–3 Sept End of the Roadtery coat, whilst at lower altitudes, cycle race. The race begins in Music Festival is a small festivalit’s time to take advantage of the Dusseldorf in Germany and finishes, with a relaxed and friend-sunshine before it gets too hot. For as it has done for the past 40 years, ly atmosphere. The beautiful pleas-example, it would be an ideal time to on the Champs-Elysees in Paris. The ure gardens at Larmer Tree on thevisit the Baronnies where in this tour will visit the Jura, the Auvergne, Wiltshire-Dorset border, form an ide-beautiful part of Provence the laven- the Pyrenees and the Alps. al place to create a woodland won-der is coming into flower. See article derland, strewn with art installationson page 6. Avignon Festival is one of the and decorated spaces. biggest international festivals for 7–10 Sept are National HeritageJune is a great time to visit the contemporary live performance Days in England. Discover architec-Massif Central in central France. featuring theatre, dance, art and tural treasures & a wide range ofThe mountain pastures are coated in music. events & activities that bring locallush green grass and a stunning history to life.array of wild flowers including Augustorchids and gentians. We have a va- Octoberriety of destinations from the moun- Mid June until mid September is thetains and volcanoes of the Sancy season for walking in the high moun- A great time to visit the wine grow-and Cantal ranges in the Auverge tains of the Alps and Pyrenees. ing regions of France. Autumn col-to the immense plateaux of the Haut Each region has its own specific ours turn the vineyards into a patch-Loire and the wild and rugged ridges character. See pages 34—43 work of oranges and reds.of the Ardeche. See pages 49 to 53. For 2017 we have a new walkingJuly holiday in the little known Ubaye region of the French Alps. Our tourThe perfect time of year to visit the of the Ubaye can be varied from 6 toFrench Alps. In our walking holiday 9 days walking depending on thein the Queyras, you can reach sum- time you have available. Stunningmits of around 3000m for wonderful landscapes in this off the beatenpanoramic views. See pages 36 & 40 track part of the Southern Alps. See page 37 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, if every year in the Beaujolais region 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). festival features wine-tasting, live music and dancing.14 July is the French NationalDay (Bastille Day) which commemo- Decemberrates the beginning of the FrenchRevolution with the Storming of the Fete des Lumieres. Lyon's Interna-Bastille as well as the Fete de la Fe- tional Light Festival sees the cityderation which celebrated the unity awash with lights for 4 days in De-of the French people. Celebrations cember.are held throughout France.14 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk
Walking Holidays in France 57 55 EVENTS CALENDAR 54,56 25 43 7,22,23 38 17-21 24 45 49,53 51 41 45 50 52 39Detailed contents lis5ng 46 36,40,44overleaf 31 37 47-48 26 6,29,32 43 30,33 42 28 34 35 34 27Beaujolais & Burgundy Provence & Mediterranean South West FranceChardonnay Wine Trail 7 Classic Provence: Luberon Trails 30 Historic Dordogne Trails: Delights ofBeaujolais Wine Trails: Grand Crus and Historic Hill-top Villages of Drome Historic Dordogne 45 ProvencaleChateaux & Medieval Villages 17 31 Villages of Correze 45Beaujolais Medieval Village Tour 18 Secret Provence: Les Baronnies 32 Serene Lot Valley Trail 46Beautiful Beaujolais Trail 19 Panoramas of Provence: Tour of Luberon 33 Tarn’s Medieval Bastides 47High Beaujolais Hills 20 Pyrenees Historic Villages & Valleys of Tarn 48Lyon’s Beautiful Secluded Hills 21 Pyrenees Trails: Cerdagne Explorer 34 Massif Central Pyrenees Trails: Azun Valley 34Secret Burgundy Trails: The Monk’s Trail 22 Traversing the Pyrenees National Park 35 Amazing Auvergne 49 Cantal Mountains 50Chadonnay Vines & Historic Villages 22 Tranquil Auvergne Trail 51 Tour of Ardeche: Rustic Trails 52Beautiful Brionnais: Secret Hills of 23 Alps Summit of Auvergne: Sancy Tour 53Burgundy Tour of Queyras: An Alpine SecretBeaujolais Discovery 24 Grand Tour of Ubaye: Hidden Alps 36 Trekking Tour of Vanoise 37Best of Medieval Burgundy 25 Panoramic Vercors 38 Eastern France Queyras: Best Kept Secret in the Alps 39Provence & Mediterranean 26 Les Ecrins: Panoramic Alpine Trail 40 Jura Wine Trail 54 27 Alps to Med Trail 41 55Côte du Rhône Wine Trail 28 Alpine Adventure: Lake Geneva to Nice 42 Alsace: Vineyards & MountainsPyrenees Coastal Trail 6 Snow Shoeing in the Queyras 43 56French Fjords: Calanques National Park 29 44 Jura Discovery: Wine Trails &Secret Provence: Tour of Baronnies Medieval VillagesSecret Provence: Baronnies Explorer Brittany & Normandy 57 Brittany’s Emerald Coast [email protected] 15
Walking Holidays in France & the UK Destination Guided Self Level N° nights Dates Page / BEAUJOLAIS & BURGUNDY 6 MAMJJASO 7 Burgundy: Chardonnay Wine Trail / 5 MAMJJASO 17 Beaujolais Wine Trail: Grand Crus / 6 MAMJJASO 17 Beaujolais Wine Trail: Chateaux & Medieval Villages 5 or 7 MAMJJASO 18 Beaujolais Medieval Village Tour 7 MAMJJASO 19 Beautiful Beaujolais Trail 7 MAMJJASO 20 High Beaujolais Hills 5 or 7 MAMJJASO 21 Lyon’s Beautiful Secluded Hills 5 or 7 MAMJJASO 22 Medieval Burgundy: The Monk’s Trail 6 MAMJJASO 22 Secret Burgundy: Chardonnay Vines & Historic Villages 7 MAMJJASO 23 Beautiful Brionnais: Secret Hills of Burgundy 7 AMJJASO 24 Beaujolais Discovery 25 Best of Medieval Burgundy 7 AMJJASO 26 PROVENCE & MEDITERRANEAN 6 or 9 AMJ SO 27 28 Côtes du Rhône Wine Trail / 6 FMAMJ SO 6 Pyrenees Coastal Trail: Collioure to Cadaques 29 French Fjords: Calanques National Park / 4 or 5 MAM ON 30 Secret Provence: Tour of the Baronnies 31 Secret Provence: Baronnies Explorer / 7 AMJ SO 32 Classic Provence: Luberon Trails 33 Historic Hill-top Villages of Drome Provencale / 4 - 14 AMJ SO Secret Provence: Les Baronnies 34 Panoramas of Provence: Grand Tour of Luberon 6 AMJ SO 34 35 / 7 or 8 AMJJASO 36 7 AMJ SO 37 38 / 7 or 12 AMJ SO 39 40 PYRENEES 6 JJAS 41 Cerdagne Explorer: Lakes, Mountains & Hot Springs / 6 JJAS 42 Pyrenees Balcony Trail: Azun Valley 43 Traversing the Pyrenees National Park 7 JJAS 44 FRENCH ALPS 8 JJAS 45 Tour of Queyras: An Alpine Secret 6, 8 or 9 JJASO 45 Grand Tour of the Ubaye: Hidden Alps 46 Trekking Tour of the Vanoise 6 or 7 JJAS 47 Panoramic Vercors 48 Queyras: Best Kept Secret in the Alps 6 or 8 JJASO Les Ecrins: Panoramic Alpine Trail 49 Alps to Med Trail 7 JJAS 50 Alpine Adventure: Lake Geneva to Nice 51 Snow Shoeing in the Queyras 5 or 6 JJAS 52 53 SOUTH WEST FRANCE / 7 AMJ SO Delights of Historic Dordogne 54 Quieter side of Dordogne: Villages of Correze / 6-14 JJASO 55 Serene Lot Valley Trail 56 Tarn’s Medieval Bastides / 6 JM D Historic Villages & Valleys of the Tarn 57 7 AMJJASO MASSIF CENTRAL 58 Amazing Auvergne: Volcanoes, Lakes & Historic Villages 5 or 7 AMJJASO 59 Cantal Mountains: The Rugged Heart of France 7 AMJJASO 60 Tranquil Auvergne Trail 7 AMJJASO 61 Tour of Ardeche: Rustic Trails 7 AMJJASO 62 Summit of Auvergne - Tour of Sancy 7 MJJAS 7 MJJAS 7 MJJASO 8 AMJ SO 5 or 6 MJJAS NORTH EAST FRANCE 6, 7 or 8 AMJJASO Jura Wine Trail 6 AMJJASO Alsace: Vineyards & Mountains 7 MJJASO Jura Discovery: Wine Trails & Medieval Villages 6 AMJJASO BRITTANY & NORMANDY Brittany’s Emerald Coast GREAT BRITAIN 5, 6 or 7 AMJJASO 5,7 or 8 AMJJASO Wonders of Wessex Walk Dorset Jurassic Coastal Path & Ridgeway 5 or 6 MAMJJASO Cornwall’s Dramatic Northern Coast West Mendip Explorer: Somerset Heights to Somerset Levels 6,7 or 8 AMJJASO Wonderfully Wild: Pembroke’s Northern Coast 6 MJJAS16
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 landscapes ♦ Daily wine tasting opportunitiesCharming small bed & breakfasts full of local ♦ Vines, pretty villages, chateauxcharacter offering an authentic & very comfortablestay. They are mainly located on vineyards. Great 11♦ Great local hospitality & wonderful cuisinelocal hospitality, warm welcome, wonderfulregional cuisine & wine tasting. Example: Le Fêtreoffers our guests exquisite food, fine Chiroubleswine, and a home from home experience. Northern Trail: Grands CrusWalks: day-by-day 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 WALKINGVisit the pretty historic villages of Chasselas, Leynes et Jullié whilst walking moving between guest houses. Average:through pretty valleys and past the impressive 17th century Chateau de la 15km, +300m per day. Good paths and coun-Roche. Wine tasting at B&B: Juliénas, Brouilly, Beaujolais Village. 18km, +550m try lanes. Some paths rough and stony in places with odd steeper sections,Day 3: Vauxrenard - FleuriePass through the famous vineyards of Chenas and Moulin à Vent where you can Dates Everyday (subject to availability) March - Octstop off to try their finest Beaujolais wines, before reaching your guest house atFleurie. Evening meal in restaurant in village. 15km, +200m What’s Airport and station transfers - Lyon, 5 nights' included accommodation. All breakfasts, 3 picnic lunchesDay 4: Fleurie - Chiroubles and 4 evening meals. Full walking notes andClimb to the Chapelle de la Madone - great viewing point with amazing views, maps, transport of luggage during walk.which on clear days reach all the way to Mont Blanc. Follow a picturesque ridgeto Chiroubles Wine tasting at B&B with great panoramic views. 14km, +370m What’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrivalDay 5: Chiroubles - Beaujeu and departure plus one lunch and one evening meal,Pass through pretty hamlets, historic chateaux and villages to Beaujeu thehistoric capital of the Beaujolais region. Options to vary the length of walks. Wine included any excursions or entrance fees, travel insurancetasting - 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 sections,Montmelas 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] 17
BEAUJOLAIS - Medieval Village TourGuided & Independent T he southern Beaujolais region is known as the “Golden stones country” (pierres dorées), due to the ♦ Beautiful historic villages built from a warm colour of the limestone used in its historic build- warm golden limestone with medieval ings. Here, our unique walking holiday will pass chateaux and historic monuments through a number of remarkable villages with some of ♦ Beautiful rolling countryside reminiscent the prettiest villages in France perched on hilly of Tuscany providing exceptional views across the vines to the Alps promontories. Wherever you look, you'll find fortified ♦ Varied walking through vines in a quiet remains, chateaux or churches adorning the vine area, famous for its wine and its gastro- covered slopes. The scale and gentleness of the slopes nomic delights. Great local hospitality has created a sumptuous landscape of interlocking hills At a Glance receding to the horizon, that literally leaves you with GUIDED / INDEPENDENT the impression of flying over the hills. This picturesque Price: See Price List wine growing area, which is often referred to as the Grade: French Tuscany, is one of our most popular holidays. Profile: Walks: day-by-day Dates: March October Day 1: Arrival Welcome in Lyon and transfer to Beaujolais Day 2: Moiré - Cogny From the pretty hamlet of Moiré your trail climbs onto a picturesque ridge with great views that let you discover the region through which you’ll be walking for the week. Descend to the quaint medieval village of Theizé. After lunch cross secluded valleys to reach your B&B. 13km, +400m Day 3: Cogny - Lacenas Today has an easier and harder option. The longer route ascends to Montmelas and its amazing chateau and then to the Chapel St Bonnet which provides amazing views of the eastern Beaujolais. Wine tasting visit at B&B 8.5km or 14km, +180m or +450m Day 4: Lacenas - Pommiers Today's trail passes through vines and the beautiful limestone village of Jarnioux with its amazing towered chateau (possibility to visit chateau). Your walking trail then climbs to the lovely ridge-top village of Pommiers, offering great views of the Beaujolais and the Alps. 15.5km, 360m Day 5: Pommiers - Chatillon d’Azergues Your day's walk climbs gently through vines, pasture and forest to the historic ridge top villages of Marcy and Charnay. From here the path descends to the fortified hill-top village of Châtillon d'Azergues with its historic chateau and chapel. 14km or 17km +200m Days 6: Chatillon d’Azergues - St Verand You’ll start with a visit of Chatillon, including its 12th century chapel, before climbing out along a ridge to reach the historic village of Bagnols with its impressive chateau, historic dwellings and great views. The walking trail then follows a former railway line descending to the village of Bois d'Oingt before traversing the forest of Flachere to reach your next guest house on an organic farm. 20km, +340m Day 7: St Verand - Moiré Today's walk takes you along a ridge offering great panoramic views of the hilltop villages on the opposite side of the valley, before descending to the small and quaint historic centre at Ternand, once an important fortified outpost for the Lords of Lyon. Then ascend to Oingt, classed as one of the prettiest villages in France. Explore its narrow alleyways and admire the amazing views of the southern Beaujolais. 17km, +460m Day 8: Departure - Transfer to Lyon after breakfast Accommodation Price p/p See Price List or Web Site for details 5 or 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. Two with Walking 6 walks moving between guest houses, averaging about 16km with pools. Great hospitality and local Profile limited ascents and descents, good paths, although some rough and cuisine. Example: Clos Pomeirs stony sections. Average daily ascent is 325m. This holiday can be is a 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 independent or guided walking moving between guest hous- Profile es. 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 plus one evening meal, any excursions or entrance fees, travel included insurance18 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk
Beautiful Beaujolais Trail (traverse)T his self-guided traverse of the Beaujolais region Independent Walking explores the full range of beautiful landscapesfound throughout this relatively quiet French area.Starting in the north, the walk crosses the luxuriantHigh Beaujolais hills where fields of rich pasturegive way to forest on the highest hills with breath-taking views. You'll then descend to cross some ofthe famous Beaujolais vineyards, before crossing aseries of deep valleys and panoramic ridges.Further south you'll pass into an area known as the“Golden stones country”, so called due to the warmcolour 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.Walks: day-by-dayDay 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Lyon. ♦ Varied walking, experiencing the full rangeDay 2: Ouroux - Chiroubles of Beaujolais landscapesSuperb start to the week, with a gentle climb through the lush green pastures of the ♦ Wine tasting at different vineyards acrossCarelle Valley. Rise onto a series of hills and ridges each one slightly higher than the last,taking you to the Croix Rochefort for vast panoramic views. Your guest house is at a wine the Beaujolaisgrowers property with great views. Wine tasting of the Chiroubles cru. 13–21km, +450m ♦ High Beaujolais hills with their deepDay 3: Chiroubles - Beaujeu valleys, wonderful ridges and beautifulDescend gently through vines and pretty villages to reach the ancient capital of the viewsBeaujolais, Beaujeu. This is where the lords of Beaujeu reigned over a large part of theBeaujolais region from the 10th century for over 400 years. Wine tasting. 15km, +280m ♦ In the south, wonderful historic villages &Day 4: Beaujeu - Vaux en Beaujolais chateaux built from a golden limestoneA day of upland ridges & great panoramic views. Relax and admire the birds of prey glid- At a Glanceing in thermals before descending to your beautiful guest house in village centre withstunning views and heated pool. 22km, +650m GUIDED / INDEPENDENTDay 5: Vaux en Beaujolais - Cogny Price: See Price ListA great day packed full of interest. Your trail starts by following a picturesque ridge with Grade:great views up onto the higher hills. You’ll then have the option between two trails, onefollowing the ridgeline with great views of the Alps, the other takes you past the fairy-tale Profile:Chateau de Montmelas. Delightful descent through the picturesque village of Cogny toyour beautiful guest house. 21km, +600m. Dates: March OctoberDay 6: Cogny - MoiréVisit some of the prettiest villages in the region, starting with Jarnioux, with its well-preserved 13th century chateau before following a former railway line to the historicvillage of Theizé. Afterwards, climb a picturesque ridge to reach the medieval hill-topvillage of Oingt (classed as one of the prettiest villages in France). 17km, +400mDay 7: Moiré - Chatillon d’AzerguesYour final day traverses gentle vine covered slopes to pass through the local centre ofBois d'Oingt and the picturesque village of Bagnols. Descend to the beautiful village ofChatillon d'Azergues with its hill-top chateau and 12th century chapel. 16km, +300mDay8: Departure - Transfer to Lyon after breakfastPrice P/P See Price List or Web Site for details AccommodationWalking 6 walks moving between guest houses. The days range from about 7 nights in delightful small Profile 14km to 22km in length and have daily ascents ranging from 250m B&B style guest houses, full to 720m & is at the upper end of the moderate grade. There are of local character where options on a couple of days. The paths are generally good, although you'll receive a genuinely they vary greatly in character. Some sections of the trail are rough warm welcome. Very com- and stony fortable rooms. Great local cuisine and wine. FullHoliday Starts every day of week subject to availability. 7 nights: 6 days board. At some overnight Profile independent walking moving between guest houses stops there are no alterna- tive B&B’s available, soWhat’s Airport and station transfers from Lyon, 7 nights' full board please book early to avoid accommodation. All breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches and 7 evening disappointment. Example:included meals. Walking notes & maps, transport of luggage Le Monde de Dom is a beautiful guest house withWhat’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrival and departure, heated pool & great views. 11 included any excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance 19 [email protected]
HIGH BEAUJOLAIS HILLSIndependent Walking T his independent walking holiday in the Beaujolais hills is a unique and inspiring circuit, ideal for those who are looking for a more challenging walk in the Beaujolais region. By day you’ll walk through a varied and beautiful upland landscape, whilst at night you’ll sample the best of the famous Beaujolais hospitality. Located to the north and east of Lyon, the Beaujolais forms a series of rolling hills summiting around 1000m above sea level. 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. Walks: day-by-day ♦ Quiet and undiscovered trails in theDay 1: Arrival: Welcome, transfer to Beaujolais Beaujolais hills which sit above the famous vineyardsDay 2: Ouroux - Propieres ♦ Secret valleys little changed forClimb steadily through the pretty Carelle valley with its lush pasture and chateau. After,climb to Mont St Rigaud, which at 1009m is the highest point of the Beaujolais. Descend the centuries harbouring pretty villages &secluded Sornin Valley. 22km, +550m historic chateaux, leading to sturdy summits and ridges with great viewsDay 3: Propieres - Poules les Echarmeaux ♦ Great Beaujolais hospitality in guestToday there are a number of options including ascending the Roche d’Ajoux for greatpanoramic views. Undulating between small ridges and quiet valleys, the scene is one of houses full of charm and characterremote farmland and old farmsteads little changed for centuries. 12 or 19km, +300 or 400m At a GlanceDay 4: Poules les Echarmeaux - Beaujeu GUIDED / INDEPENDENTCross the Azergues Valley, before reaching Vernay, a tiny hamlet in a beautiful setting withits remarkable 12th century Romanesque church. Descend to Beaujeu, the former capital of Price: See Price Listthe Beaujolais & visit it's 11th century church. Wine tasting at guest house. 19km, +440m Grade: orDay 5: Beaujeu - Quincié Profile: OctoberAfter taking in views of intimate valleys, where vines and forests meet, follow a picturesque Dates: Aprilridge offering breath-taking views across the Beaujolais and beyond. On a clear day, MontBlanc stands out proud on the horizon. 22km, +770m, shorter options are available.Day 6: Quincié - ChiroublesExplore the vineyards that spread out in all directions across the lower slopes of theBeaujolais. On route admire a number of chateaux and villages, such as Regnie-Durette,with its impressive double spired church. Your walking trail gradually rises back towards thehills and your welcoming B&B with great views. 15km, +550mDay 7: Chiroubles - OurouxA great day's walking. After a steep ascent away from the vines you'll visit the quaint villageof Avenas with its lovely 12th century church and its ramshackle stone properties. Follow ahigh level traverse taking in great views across the upland Beaujolais. From the summit atthe Croix de Rochefort you literally look straight down upon Beaujeu. 15 - 19km, +540mDay 8: Departure Transfer to Lyon after breakfast Price p/p See Price List or Web Site for details Accommodation Walking 6 walks moving between guest houses, averaging about 20km for 6 charming B&B’s full of local Profile the more challenging option and 17.5km for the moderate option. character offering an authentic Some sizeable ascents and descents, although no more than 400m and comfortable stay. The at a time. Average daily ascent is 550m. Paths are generally good welcome is warm and generous. and well way-marked, although some sections are stony and steep. Example: Ferme du Planet is a beautifully renovated working Holiday Starts every day of week subject to availability. 7 nights: 6 days farm with charming rooms and a Profile independent walking moving between guest houses. stunning rural setting. What’s Airport and station transfers from Lyon, 7 nights' Full Board included accommodation. All breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches and 7 evening meals. Full walking notes and maps, transport of luggage between guest houses. What’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrival and departure, included any excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance20 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 roll- Independent Walking ing hills rising to the west of Lyon, France’s second city. Less well-known than the neighbouring Beaujolais hills, this hidden country presents a pic- turesque rural scene where vines are replaced by a patchwork of lush grazing land, cherry orchards and forested tops. You have the choice between a 6- day traverse or a 4-day circular trail to discover these inviting, off the beaten track hills. The walk- ing is reasonably gentle as you progress south from the Beaujolais to the edge of the Côtes du Rhone vines. At times you’ll follow the long distance GR 7 trail and at others you’ll discover wonderful local paths following pretty valleys or panoramic ridges.Walks: day-by-dayDay 1: Arrival: Welcome, transfer to Mont LyonnaisDay 2: Sain Bel - Forgeux ♦ Quiet and undiscovered trails a shortA delightful walk between two wonderful guest houses. Climb through pasture and orchards distance from the Gastronomic capital ofonto the Lyonnais hills. A chance to summit Mont Popey overlooking the Turdine Valley be- Francefore a great ridge walk that descends to St Forgeux and your accommodation. 20km, +600m ♦ Beautiful and secluded hills dotted withDay 3: Forgeux - Villecheneve sturdy farms and picturesque villages builtA remote and more wooded walk as you approach the highest summits between the Beaujo- from granitelais and the Loire Valley. Rustic sturdy farms are scattered across the green landscape asyou spend most of the day above 700m in rural tranquillity with great views. Your accommo- ♦ Far reaching panoramic viewsdation is on a lovely old farm built from granite. 16km, +470m ♦ A variety of guest houses with greatDay 4: Villecheneve- Brullioles character and hospitalityContinue 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 inthe village of Brullioles. 17km, +240mThe 4 day circular trail returns to Sain Bel the next day via Bessenay, the centre ofthe cherry production in the region.Day 5: Brullioles - Yzeron AAt taaGGlalnanceceContinue south passing through the Brevenne Valley. After, climb through cherry orchards to PGrUicIeD:ED / IN£D4E8PE5NDENTbring you back into the pasture-covered hills with magnificent views. You’ll then reachYzeron perched on the edge of the hills which plunge towards Lyon. 17km, +560m GPraicdee:: See Price ListDay 6: Yzeron - St Martin en Haut PGrroafidle:Today you have two options to choose from, one going via the pretty and remote village of Dates: March OctoberMontromant with great views and the other, a more direct and easier trail. On both options Profile:you’ll discover the remains of the Roman aqueduct which took water from the Mont Lyonnaishills to the Roman capital of Gaul, Lagdunum, now called Lyon. Both go through beautiful Dates: April Octoberrolling hills. 13 – 22km, +300m or +640mDay 7: St Martin en Haut - RiverieThe hills become more gentle as you climb to almost 1000m on the edge of the LyonnaisHills where pasture and fields give way to steeper wooded slopes. Below these the fruitorchards spread out towards the Rhone Valley. Your day finishes in the pretty hill-top villageof Riverie and your beautiful guest house. 16km, +350mOptional extra night at Riverie & circular walk from village with views of the Pilat mountains 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 18km and 450m of ascent. equivalent in quality offering a comfortable stay. You have the Maximum 22km and 600m. 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 or 4 days independent walking moving between guest hous- Dorée is a stunningProfile es. guest house in a wonderful houseWhat’s Airport and station transfers from Lyon, 5 or 7 nights' accommoda- built in 1903 with tion. Full Board. Walking notes and maps, transport of luggage great panoramicincluded 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 pro- 11 included any excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance duce from their farm. [email protected] 21
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 ad- mire 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 com- fortable 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 secluded valleys with vines & pasture and enjoy mouth-watering home cooked cui- sine. Example: Source des Fées is a wonder- 11♦Visit Cluny & its historic monuments ful guest house on a vineyard in Fuissé. Medieval Burgundy: The Monk’s Trail Walks: Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for details GradeDay 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Lyon. Profile 7 nights, 6 days INDEPENDENT WALKINGDay 2: Tournus - Cortambert: Pass through pretty rolling countryside with a moving between guest houses. Also availa- ble as a 5 night holiday. Average: 18km,number of picturesque villages lost in the hills such as Blanot. 20km, +480m +350m per day. Good paths and country lanes. Some paths rough and stony in places with oddDay 3: Cortambert - Cluny: Visit the secluded village of Donzy le Pertuis, then steeper sections,finish 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' included accommodation. All breakfasts, 4 picnic luncheswith its beautiful 16th century chateau and gardens. 18km, +300m and 4 evening meals. Full walking notes and maps, transport of luggage during walk.Day 5: Cormatin - Bresse sur Grosne: A choice of routes passing through What’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrivalsome wonderful medieval villages such as Malay with its remarkable Romanesquechurch, 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 Tournusand its impressive abbey. 18km, +350m Day 8: Departure Transfer to Lyon Secret Burgundy: Chardonnay Vines & Historic Villages Walks Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for details GradeDay 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Lyon. Profile 6 nights, 5 days INDEPENDENT WALKINGDay 2: Fuissé - Pierreclos: A great days walking through elegant vine covered moving between guest houses. Average: 18km, +520m per day with one easy day.slopes. Climb to the top of the Roche de Solutré, site of pre-historic activities (dating Good paths (stony in places) and country lanes.back 35,000 years and favourite walking spot of former president Mitterand) & with a Some steeper sections.rich flora and fauna. Amazing views all the way. 15-23km, +400 - 580mDay 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 breakfast22 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, before following a ridge to the rustic villages of Amanzé ♦ Immaculate historic villages with fantasticand Oyé. 15—24km, +330m early medieval architectureDay 3: St Christophe-en-Brionnais - Anzy-le-Duc ♦ Wonderful views from open ridgesPass through St Christophe with its 500 year old cattle market. Cross a number of ♦ Historic town of Charlieu and the hill topdelightful valleys and ridges & pass through the pretty village Briant adorning a hill topposition. Great views as you pass over hills before descending to the beautiful village of village of Semur en BrionnaisAnzy-le-Duc with its priory & church. 21km, +330m At a GlanceDay 4: Anzy-le-Duc - Iguerande GUIDED / INDEPENDENTVisit the ridge top village of Semur-en-Brionnais, classed as one of the prettiest villages in Price: See Price ListFrance, 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, Grade:overlooking the Loire Valley with great views. 14km, +320m Profile:Day 5: Iguerande - St Nizier sous Charlieu Dates: March OctoberPass through the local vines a mixture of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon gris; indays gone by 4000 hectares here were once covered in vines, witness to the sunnynature of the climate in the Brionnais. Great views throughout the day. 19.5 km +300mDay 6: Charlieu - ChateauneufVisit the historic town of Charlieu, & its pretty streets with a mix of stone and woodenframe 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 +610mDay8: Departure - Transfer to Lyon after breakfast AccommodationPrice P/P See Price List or Web Site for details 7 nights in a mixture of charming good quality small guest houses in historic Walking 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 in 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 difficulties. in a 15th century chateau.Holiday Starts every day of week subject to availability. 7 nights: 6 days Profile independent walking moving between guest housesWhat’s Airport and station transfers from Lyon, 7 nights' Full Board accom- modation. All breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches & 7 evening meals. Walk-included ing notes and maps, transport of luggage between guest houses.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 [email protected] 23
BEAUJOLAIS DISCOVERYGuided Walking T he Beaujolais region is a series of picturesque roll- ing 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 ♦ Wonderful panoramic views panoramic views across the rolling hills. 19.5km, +520m At a Glance Day 4: Grand Crus GUIDED / INDEPENDENT A shorter walk amid the vines that make up the most famous Beaujolais wines. Small hills Price: See Price List 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 Grade: Day 5: Jarnioux Profile: Our trail takes us past a number of chateaux including the amazing 13th century castle at Dates: April to October 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 Discover a number of historic villages, the Azergues Valley and vast panoramic views all on one walk. You’ll explore the charming hill-top villages of Chatillon d’Azergues and Charnay, walk along the pretty Azergues River and follow a picturesque ridge-line. 16km, +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. All breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches and 6 evening meals. 6 guided included walks What’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrival and departure, plus one other evening meal, any excursions or entrance fees, included travel insurance24 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk
Best of Medieval Burgundy Guided WalkingO ur guided walking holiday in southern Burgundy explores a rich landscape full of historic treasures. Medieval chateaux such as those at Berzé and Brancion, historic churches and pretty medieval villag- es are set in beautiful rolling countryside carpeted with Chardonnay vines, pasture and forests. A number of rocky outcrops punctuate the vineyards such as the celebrated “roche de Solutré” important for its pre-historic human activity. These landmarks provide exceptional viewing points to admire the surrounding countryside. The Burgundy region is well-known for its fine wine and gastronomic food, a reputation that is richly deserved. You will have plenty of opportunity to sample both during your 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. After- providing great views as far as the Alpswards we'll ascend to the top of the Roche Coche for fantastic views, before reaching theimpressive 13th century chateau Berzé le Chatel with its 3 defensive walls and 13 towers. ♦ Wine tasting of the local chardonnay and visit-Return by the chateau des Moines. After, visit the historic town of Cluny, which grew uparound the Benedictine Abbey founded in 910AD. Enjoy looking around medieval proper- ing historic monumentsties 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 important land-marks in the area - the Roche de Solutré, site of pre-historic activities (dating back At a Glance35,000 years) providing amazing views of the surrounding countryside. After, beautifulwalk through vines and forest. 17km, +400m GUIDED / INDEPENDENT Price: See Price ListDay 4: Chapaize Grade:Our walk starts from Cormatin with its beautiful 17th century chateau. The circuit passesthrough undulating countryside of vines and fields to reach the remarkable villages of Profile:Chapaize, Ougy and Bissy. Chapaize has a wonderful 11th century church. 17km, +200m Dates: April to OctoberDay 5: Hills around AzéA wonderful walk which explores the vines around the historic villages of Igé and Azébefore 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 housesWhat’s Airport and station transfers from Lyon, 7 nights' accommodation. All breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 four-course evening meals. Wine tasting,included 6 days guided walkingWhat’s not Travel to Lyon, France; lunches on the day of arrival and departure, 11 plus one evening meal, wine with some meals, any excursions orincluded entrance fees, travel insurance [email protected] 25
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, ♦ Dramatic walks around the rocky spires of to the slopes of the impressive rock spires of Dentelles de Mont- Dentelles de Montmirail mirail in the south, passing by the foothills of Mont Ventoux. You ♦ Sleepy historic villages perched in dramatic have the choice between a 5-day or 8-day walk taking in some of settings the most beautiful landscapes in the region as well as the best ♦ A favourable climate - 300 days of sunshine known of the Côtes du Rhône wines such as Beaumes de Venise per year and Vinsobres. You’ll also explore plenty of beautiful historic ♦ Visiting the wonderful historic villages of villages and hamlets along the way, many of which are sheltering Grignan, Vaison-la-Romaine and Beaumes under rocky towers or perched atop ridges, crowned by impres- de Venise sive castles. The wonderful hill-top village of Grignan is your ♦ Great local cuisine and wines in beautiful starting point for the longer version of the holiday, whilst Vaison guest houses & hotels la Romain is where the short break holiday begins where you can At a Glance explore its famous Roman remains. Both holidays then circumnav- GUIDED / INDEPENDENT Price: See Price List igate the wonderful hills and rocky ridges of Dentelles de Grade: Montmirail. Profile: Walks: day-by-day Dates: April, May, June, Sept, Oct Day 1: Arrival – Transfer to Grignan and explore (8-day walking holiday) Accommodation Day 2: Rousset-les-Vignes - Venterol Transfer to Rousset-les Vignes and explore this pretty historic village. Traverse slopes between steep forested hills and vine covered slopes where the sandstone has been erod- ed into strange hills and deep ravines. Reach your beautiful guest house located on a vineyard on a historic fortified farm. Wine tasting. 14km +340m Day 3: Venterol - Visan Walk through vineyards of the famous Vinsobres Cru with great views towards the Mont Ventoux. Night at a lovely guest house near Visan. Cote du Rhone Village. 19km +300m Day 4: Visan - Vaison-la-Romaine 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. 19km, +250m 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. 20km, +460m 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. 15km, +330m 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 15km, +130m or +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. 15km, +290m 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. 15km, +330m 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 300-400m of ascent. Some small sections can be steep. Vaison la Romaine. Maximum altitude is 500m 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 or26 entrance fees, travel insurance Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk
Pyrenees Coastal Trail: Collioure to CadaquesC reated in 1995 by our expert local partners, this beauti- Independent Walking ful coastal path has for backdrop the mighty Pyrenees mountains on one side and the blue Mediterranean Sea on the other. Small historic fishing ports made from white- washed houses nestle at the base of green hills covered in vines, orange groves and forest. Secluded rocky bays sit beneath picturesque headlands which offer great views . On four of the days it is possible to choose between two different grades of walking routes, making it ideal for those seeking a challenge, as well as those looking for a relatively modest trek. (See more information below). This holiday is also an ideal spring or autumn break for people looking to escape the summer crowds. The Mediterranean sea keeps the Catalan coast mild, even in winter and pleas- antly warm in the Spring and Autumn. Walks: day-by-day ♦ A superb linear trail, alternating betweenDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at your hotel in Collioure which sits at the base of the the coast and climbing to vantage points with panoramic views across the MedPyrenees in a small calm bay where the Mediterranean gently laps at its shores. Enjoylooking around this pretty town with its coloured facades, its 13th century royal chateau ♦ Traverse through the Catalan Pyreneesand impressive church. between France and SpainDay 2: Collioure - Banyuls ♦ Fresh sea food dishes from the MedFollow a panoramic trail through the Madeloc with the possibility of climbing theMadeloc tower, a look out over the Med. The vegetation alternates between vines and ♦ A rich artistic and historic legacy withscrub. Pretty descent to Banyuls, home of the famous wine. Grade mod: 4 hours, +/-500m. Grade mod/chall: 5 hours, +/-700m artists such as Matisse and DaliDay 3: Banyuls - Cerbere ♦ A mild temperate climate out of seasonGreat panoramic views over the Mediterranean, towards the ruins of Querroig, a At a Glancemedieval look out tower. The sea along this part of the walk is protected as a marinenature reserve. Arrive at Cerbère, the last stop before crossing over into Spain. Grade GUIDED / INDEPENDENTmod: 4 hours 30, +/-450m. Grade mod/chall: 5 hours, +/-700m Price: See Price ListDay 4: Cerbere - Llanca Grade: orToday you'll follow, in part, the Garbet beach, with the sea lapping at your feet and arich and colourful vegetation. Enjoy the calm of this stage as you pass from small inlet Profile:to small inlet until you reach your overnight stay at the port of Llanca. 4hrs30, +/-450m Dates: 10/2 - 23/6 & 1/9 - 2/11Day 5: Llanca - Port de la SelvaA glorious ascent on the monastry trail to reach the unique church of Saint Elena andthe imposing monastery Sant Pere de Roda, over a thousand years old. A pretty descentamong abandoned vineyards with views over the bay at Port de la Selva. Grade mod: 4hours, +/-550m. Grade mod/chall: 5 hours, +/-700mDay 6: Port de la Selva - CadaquesTraverse the Cap de Creus - a protected regional Park forming a peninsula jutting intothe Mediterranean. The terrain is rugged & spectacular as you make your way to thesmall historic fishing village of Cadaques, with its winding streets & traditional white-washed houses. Grade mod: 5 hours, +/-350m. Grade mod/chall: 7 hours, +/-500mDay 7: Tour from CadaquesIn the morning, you'll discover the Oliguera peninsula and its amazing rock formations,including the famous rock \"Cucurucuc\". Return by taxi to Collioure with a possible stopby the Museum Dali de Fiueres. 2hrs15, +/-100mExtra night possible at CadaquesPrice P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsWalking 5 1/2 days walking moving between guest houses. The walks aver- Accommodation Profile age about 15km. Some sections of the trail are rough and stony in places with the odd steep section. On this holiday you have the A variety of independent and friendly 3 star hotels choice of two possible routes on 4 of the days, giving rise to two on half board basis. Lunches are not included in the different grades. You can, of course, choose to do a mixture of cost of the holiday but can be ordered from your easier and more challenging days. Moderate: Average of 5 hours hotel, the evening before your departure. walking with daily ascents of between 350m and 550m. Moder- ate/challenging: Average of 6 hours walking with daily ascents of between 400m and 700m.Holiday Starts every day of week between 10 Feb & 23 June, & between 1 Sept & 2 Nov, subject to availability. 6 nights: 5 1/2 days inde-Profile pendent walking moving between hotels What’s 6 nights HB accommodation. Full walking notes and maps, 11 included transport of luggage between guest houses, taxi transfer on day 7 27What’s not Travel to Collioure, France (accessible by train); all lunches, drinks included with meals, any excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance [email protected]
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-day ♦ Wonderful walks exploring the dramaticDay 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Marseille station and transfer to your guest fjords of Provencehouse in Cassis. ♦ Enjoy beautiful secluded beaches en-Day 2: La Ciotat - Cassis closed by spectacular cliffs with azur blue watersTaxi transfer or shuttle buses & train to La Ciotat. From here, follow the cliff top all theway to Cassis with superb views and enjoyable walking. The cliffs rise to an amazing ♦ A pleasant Mediterranean climate399m above sea level with superb views. The arrival in Cassis is spectacular.11km, +580m perfect for spring or autumn breaksDay 3: Tour of Mont Puget & Sugiton Calanques ♦ The charming small port of CassisAfter a short bus trip to Gineste your walking trail takes you on a round circuit overlooking At a GlanceLes 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 bring- GUIDED / INDEPENDENTing you down to superb coves. After, climb to the Col de la Candelle for amazing views.Short bus trip back to Cassis. 15km, +750m Price: See Price ListDay 4: Calanques de Cassis Grade: +Your trail stays close to the water's edge as you explore the beautiful inlets of Port Miou,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 stunning pano-ramas before descending into the Sormiou Calanques. Pass through a wonderful secludedport before another wonderful ridge walk with great and unique views of the coastline.Descend to the small port and cove of Morigou across the coastline. Climb to Mont Luminysummit. 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: Dates: See details Price p/p See Price List and Web Site for details. Price will be different 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 accommoda- tion in a wonderful small November. (Also possible 1 - 15 June & 15 - 30 Sept, but guest house in the heart of there is a higher risk of closure of Paths due to risk of fire) Cassis, with swimming pool. Welcoming host who Walking 3 or 4 days independent walking based in a wonderful guest house in will take great pleasure in Profile Cassis. This holiday is suitable for experienced walkers of an average looking after you during fitness (with a minimum of preparation). You should be used to walking your stay. e.g. Villa Astoria 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.28 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk
Secret Provence: Baronnies ExplorerO ur Baronnies Explorer self-guided walking holiday discovers Independent Walking a remarkably beautiful and quiet area in northern Provence.This is a secret and unspoilt corner of France where the Alps meetthe Provence with beautiful historic villages and hamlets clingingto rocky mountain sides decorated in lavender, thyme, vines,olives, orchards and woodland.This multi-centred holiday is designed to allow you to explore theBaronnies Regional Park at your own pace. You decide the num-ber of nights and places you want to stay and we create a holidaytailored to your interests. Our walking guide includes a series ofwonderful day walks of various lengths and difficulties spreadacross the park allowing you to discover one of the prettiest andleast well known parts of France. The mixture of manicured fieldsin the valleys and wild and rugged ridges above creates beautifullandscapes bathed in the pure Provence sunshine. Walks: day-by-day ♦ Unspoilt beautiful landscapes, quiet trailsHere is a selection of possible walks at each location and varied walking through scented lavender fields, orchards, vines and wildBased near Nyons scrub and forestsVines, olives & Villages of Nyons: Explore vine covered slopes where the sand- ♦ Sleepy historic villages, unaltered forstone has been eroded into strange hills and deep ravines. Great panoramic views of thesurrounding hills as you explore pretty villages such as Rousset-les Vignes. 18km, +300m centuries perched on rocky slopesCougoir: Drive to a farm perched on the mountainside and climb to the summit of ♦ A favourable climate with 300 days ofCougoir which at over 1200m has dramatic 360° views. 6km, +350m sunshine per yearBased at Sainte Jalle ♦ Flexible centre based holiday tailored toTour of the 6 Cols: From the pretty ridgetop hamlet of Rochebrune you’ll discover a your interests and time availablemultitude of landscapes as you tour around remote and wild valleys 15km, +500m At a GlancePoet Sigillat & Arpavon: This walk takes in two typical Baronnies hamlets, clinging GUIDED / INDEPENDENTto remote hilsides. Great views throughout as you traverse around the slopes of GrandeJavoniere. 12km, +350m Price: See Price List Grade:Ouveze Valley & Montagne de la Serriere: From Col Peyruergue, climb oraround rocky ridges above the picturesque Ennuye Valley, then return via orchard covered Profile:slopes with great views across the Ouveze Valley. 14km, +420mBased at RemuzatSaint May & Rocher de St Auban: This walk climbs gradually from the prettyvillage of Saint May to Plateau St Laurent and onto the edge of the grasslands of Rocher deSt Alban for great panoramic views. Walk can be reduced in difficulty. 12km, +580mRocher de BramardClimb Rocher de Bramard, a rocky peak, prominent in the Eygue Valley. 13km, +630mBased at La HonasAulan Castle & rugged ravines: Transfer to Aulan, a pretty 12th century castle.Follow a picturesque valley to a desert of rocky ravines & then the perched village of le Poêten Percip. Climb to a ridge with great panoramic views. Descend to B&B. 15km +530mBarons of Mévoullion: From our B&B you traverse lavender fields before circling theremarkable table top mountain which was once the site of the fortress of the local barons inmedieval times. Great views of Mont Ventoux. 17km, +/-280mMontagne de Chamousse: A wonderful walk from Col du Perty up to the summitof Chamousse which at over 1500m provides exceptional views over the Baronnies andeast towards the Alps. Discover alpine pastures and vertiginous cliffs. 12km, +/-380mPrice P/P See Price List or Web Site for details Dates: May, June, Sept, OctWalking Day walks from one or several central guest houses. Graded as Accommodation Profile moderate or moderate/challenging depending on your choices. Generally more moderate walks available than challenging ones. Charming guest houses full of charac- Due to the nature of the landscape some small sections can be ter. Beautiful traditional properties relatively steep & rocky, & it would be unwise to do this holiday if offering an authentic and very comfort- you suffered from bad vertigo. Paths are generally good and well able stay in B&B style guest houses. defined, although they can be rough in places. Peaceful locations, some with swimming pools where the welcome is warm andHoliday Starts every day of week during May, June, September and Octo- generous. Example: La Honas - a Profile ber, subject to availability. Day walks from one or several central restored farm in a great setting, serving guest houses. A car is necessary for this holiday. There is flexibility wonderful food. with respect to the number of nights and number of centres you wish to include. Up to 4 centres possible with walks to occupy a two week break. For example, stay near Nyons to discover a landscape of vines and olives before heading to Saint Jalle for remote land- scapes and perched hamlets; or combine a stay at Remuzat for gorges and peaks with a stay at La Honas for lavender covered valleys and picturesque hills.What’s Several night’s accommodation with a number of meals and lunch- es. Example holiday packages & prices on web site. Full walkingincluded notes & maps.What’s not Travel to Baronnies, France; transport during holiday to most 11 included walks, lunches and meals on certain days, drinks, travel insurance 2191 [email protected]
Guided Walking Classic Provence: Luberon Trails 0 ur guided walking holiday in the Luberon takes in some of the best loved hill-top villages in Provence. Moderate walking lets you discover a pretty landscape of vines, lavender, orchards and forests where small hills provide generous vantage points. You’ll explore the beautiful, historic villages of Gordes, Lacoste, Bonnieux, Saint Saturnin and Roussillon, among many others, each with their own special character. Despite the popularity of the region, your holiday explores quiet trails inbetween the villages where each step is infused with the smell of Provence herbs. At the end of each day relax by the pool and soak up the Provence sun- shine at your delightful accommodation. Walks: day-by-day ♦ Visit many stunning hill-top, historicDay 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Lyon or Avignon & transfer to Luberon. villagesDay 2: Tour from Gordes ♦ A multitude of landscapes & vegetationExplore the historic perched village of Gordes - probably the most famous village in the with lavender, vines, olives, orchards &Luberon - and undertake a circular walk via Abbaye de Sénanque, built in 1148, and one forestof the most photographed sites in Provence. Chance to visit the famous village des Bories(restored museum of the dry stone shelters found in the region.)14km - +250m/-250m. ♦ A warm and sunny climate, ideal for anDay 3: Bonnieux & Petit Luberon ridge autumn breakBonnieux is another wonderful Provence village. The view from Bonnieux is wonderful out ♦ Easy walking with plenty of time foracross the valley floor with its patchwork of orchards and vineyards, towards Lacoste,which you’ll also get to visit. You can climb on cobbled streets all the way to the top and taking in the sitesvisit the ruins of the castle of the Marquis de Sade. Then drive up onto the Petit Luberonand its Cedar Forest. The views from the ridge are superb. Up to 14km At a GlanceDay 4: Joucas, Mur and Gorge de Vezoule GUIDED / INDEPENDENTYour trail takes you off the beaten path through less frequented villages and a mixture of Price: See Price Listforest and vines, truffle plantations and pasture. Your trail also passes through theVezoule gorge with amazing meanders. 15km, + 390m Grade:Day 5: Boux and Aigue Brun gorge Profile:Your walk takes in a lovely historic chapel, the medieval fort de Boux, the pretty hamlet of Dates: April to June &Sivergues, a pretty and historic salt trail, as well as the secluded Aigue Brun Gorge har- Sept to Octbouring a vegetation unlike elsewhere in the area. Admire the huge limestone cliffs as youenjoy a drink at the auberge after your walk. Also visit the beautiful village of Saignon.12km, +250 mDay 6: Tour from Viens and Colorado ProvencalAfter exploring the perched village of Viens your trail follows a ridge with superb views outall the way to the north and west towards the Albion Plateau and Mont Ventoux. After-wards explore the wonderful landscapes and colours of the Colorado Provencal whereochre deposits form wonderful towers and fins of rock. 16km, +350mDay 7: St SaturninVisit the wonderful hill-top village of St Saturnin les Apt, nestled along the base of a long,low cliff, with the ruins of a castle above. Explore its pretty streets before we head westand leave the vineyards and olive groves behind to climb onto the impressive Madeleinecliffs overlooking the hamlet of Lioux, which are 100m high and over 1km in length. Greatpanoramic views. After, visit the pretty ochre coloured village of RoussillonDay 8: Departure - After breakfast, transfer to Avignon or Lyon Accommodation Price p/p See Price List or Web Site for details 7 nights full board in a delightful 3 star hotel and a wonderful guest house with great views. They both have Walking 6 guided day walks. Walking on this holiday is mixed with moder- swimming pools and are in great Profile ate ascents and descents. Average distances are about 15km with surroundings. about 300m of ascent. Most walks are well within the grade, although due to the nature of the landscape some small sections Example: Auberge Carcarille is a delight- can be relatively steep and stony. Your walking days allow lots of ful three star hotel in a historic stone time for exploring the villages. building set below the historic village of Gordes in a peaceful rural setting. Attractive gardens and swimming pool. Holiday 7 nights: 6 days guided walking staying in two high quality Profile guest houses What’s 7 nights full board accommodation in 3 star equivalent accom- modation (except one evening meal). Transfer from Lyon or included Avignon and to the walks, 6 guided walks What’s not Lunches on arrival & departure days, one evening meal, any included excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance, travel to France30 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-day ♦ A unique linear trail through a beautifulDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at your first guest house in Crest. Explore this pretty town, landscape of rolling hillshome of the highest dungeon tower in France. ♦ Relatively quiet part of France with manyDay 2: Crest - Saou stunning perched, historic villagesYour first day climbs away from the Drome Valley, exploring rich woodland and undulating ♦ A multitude of landscapes & vegetationfarmland. You’ll then traverse underneath the craggy tops of Roche Colombe before enter-ing the pretty village of Saou at the spectacular and narrow entrance to the Saou Valley, an with lavender, vines, olives & forestenclosed gorge, overlooked by towering limestone cliffs. 20km +650m ♦ A warm and sunny climateDay 3: Saou - Bourdeaux ♦ Delightful guest houses full of character,Moderate option passes through the pretty villages of Francillon and Poet Celard. After aclimb through picturesque farmland, descend to the beautiful perched village of Bourdeaux five with swimming poolssurrounded 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 At a GlanceBarry from where it’s a beautiful descent to Bourdeaux, as lavender fields start to appear.Mod: 17km, +400m, Mod/chall: 22km, +950m. GUIDED / INDEPENDENTDay 4: Bourdeaux - Poet Laval Price: See Price List Grade:Explore the perched village of Bourdeaux, before making a detour to its Chateau ruins. The ortrail undulates through a patchwork of forest and lavender fields, with great panoramicviews, before reaching the historic village Dieulefit, famous for its pottery. Your day ends at Profile:the magnificent historic village of Poet Laval, one of the prettiest in France. 19km, +650m Dates: *April, May, June, Sept, OctOption of extra day in Poet Laval with rest day or extra walk +18km, +600mDays 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 +590 mDay 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 which have Dates *1 April - 6 July & 24 August - 31 October. been beautifully renovated, five with swim- ming 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] 31
Secret Provence: Les BaronniesGuided Walking 0 ur unique guided walking holiday in northern Provence explores a remarkably beautiful area known as Les Baronnies. This is a ♦ Unspoilt landscapes, quiet trails and var- secret and unspoilt corner of France where the Alps meet the ied walking through scented lavender Provence with beautiful historic villages clinging to rocky mountain fields, olive groves, wild scrub and forests sides decorated in purple lavender flowers. ♦ Sleepy historic perched villages Sheltered by the mountains, its privileged position and distinct ♦ A favourable climate - 300 days of climate give the region a remarkable light that draws you into its sunshine per year rugged and beautiful landscapes. It’s also a region where wild ♦ Visiting the historic towns of Buis les Thyme, Lavender, herbs and pine produce a wonderfully scented Baronnies with its Provençal market and Nyons with its narrow historic streets landscape. There are a large number of well preserved fortified ♦ Great local cuisine, beautiful guest medieval villages clinging to steep hillsides established by barons in houses the 11th century. Their towers, walls and alleyways altered by a At a Glance succession of historic events that have marked the region. GUIDED / INDEPENDENT The double influence of the Alps and the Mediterranean has created Price: See Price List an exceptionally rich fauna and flora and the region has been desig- Grade: nated a Natural Regional Park. Profile: Walks: day-by-day Dates: April, May, June, Sept, Oct Day 1: Arrival – Welcome, pick up from Lyon and drive to Provence Day 2: Montbrun les Bains Our day's walk starts and finishes at Montbrun les Bains, a beautiful historic village perched on the hillside (classed as one of the prettiest villages in France). Our walk will explore this fascinating village before doing a short circuit contouring around the surrounding hills through forest and lavender fields. 10km +/-240m Day 3: Aulan Castle & rugged ravines Walk from Aulan, a pretty 12th century castle at the head of a pretty gorge. Our walk follows a picturesque valley through mixed woodland to reach a desert of rocky ravines. We then contour to the small perched village of le Poêt en Percip before gradually climbing to reach a ridge with great panoramic views. Descent to B&B. 15km +/-530m Day 4: Barons of Mévoullion From our B&B we’ll traverse lavender fields before circling the remarkable table top mountain which was once the site of the fortress of the local barons in medieval times. Great views to the east before traversing under the Montagne de Buc with great views of Mont Ventoux. 17km, +/-280m Day 5: Buis les Baronnies & Nyons Our rest day will take in visits to the historic centres of Buis les Baronnies for its provence market, and Nyons, where you'll be able to visit its historic streets and its roman bridge. Possibility of visiting olive mill. Our day will finish with a wine tasting visit of the local Cote de Baronnies in the Eygues Valley. Day 6: Lavender country Our walk today starts from Sault on the plateau d'Albion, traversing woodland before arriving at the beautiful perched village of Aurel. After visiting the villages narrow streets, our route takes us to the edge of the plateau for great views of the rugged mountains to the north. The walk traverses lavender fields and woods as it winds its way past the tiny hamlet of St Trinit before returning to Sault. Drive to a Lavender farm to find out all about its production. 15km, +/-250m Day 7: High Baronnies A wonderful walk from Col du Perty up to the summit of Chamousse which at over 1500m provides exceptional views over the Baronnies and east towards the Alps. Discover alpine pastures and vertiginous cliffs. 12km, +/-380m Day 8: Departure - Transfer to Lyon after breakfast Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for details Accommodation Dates April to June, Sept to Oct Two charming 3 star equivalent guest houses. They are exquisite traditional properties offering an authentic and Walking 6 guided day walks. Walking on this holiday is mixed with moderate very comfortable stay. Peaceful locations, with swimming Profile ascents and descents. Average distances are about 15km with pools where the welcome is warm and the food excellent. about 300m of ascent. Most walks are well within the grade, Example: Maison de Marguerite is a wonderful stone although due to the nature of the landscape some small sections property near Montbrun les Bains. can be relatively steep and stony. The steep terrain means it’s Great hospitality. unwise to do this holiday if you suffer from vertigo. Holiday 7 nights: 6 days guided walks staying in two high quality Profile guest houses What’s 7 nights full board accommodation including wine with evening meal (except one evening meal). Transfer from Lyon and to the Included walks, 6 guided walks What’s not Lunches on arrival & departure days, one evening meal, any 11 included excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance32 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk
Panoramas of Provence: Grand Tour of LuberonT his unique walking holiday undertakes a beautiful Independent Walking circuit around the hills, gorges and historic villages of ♦ A unique circular trail exploring the fullthe Luberon Regional Park. As well as visiting some of the range of landscapes in the Luberonbest known sites and villages such as Gordes, Lacoste and St ♦ Stunning historic hill-top villagesSaturnin lès Apt, your trail takes you off the beaten track into ♦ A multitude of landscapes & vegetationthe higher hills and through some less frequented, charming with lavender, vines, olives, orchards &hamlets and villages. This two week tour is also available as foresta 7 night holiday. On most of the days you’ll have the option ♦ Choice of difficulty of walks on most daysbetween a moderate or a more challenging day’s walk, ♦ Delightful guest houses full of character,meaning it is suitable for those looking for a fairly relaxed most with swimming poolswalking holiday as well as those seeking a tougher walking At a Glancetrip. Each night you’ll stay in wonderful guest houses where GUIDED / INDEPENDENTyou can relax and enjoy the Provence sunshine. Price: See Price List Walks: day-by-day Grade: or Day 1: Arrival – Welcome at your first guest house in Gordes. Profile: Dates: April, May, June, Sept, Oct Day 2: Tour from Gordes: Choice of walks depending on your interests and length Accommodation of walk desired. Explore the historic perched village of Gordes - probably the most famous village in the Luberon - and undertake a circular walk via Abbaye de Sénanque, built in Mix of delightful small guest houses in 1148. You can choose to extend the walk via the village des Bories (restored museum of the historic buildings full of character and dry stone shelters found in the region) & Semacole gorge. 12-17km - +250/+450m quality 3 star hotels. Example: Domaine Saint Jean is a wonderful guest house in Day 3: Gordes - Goult: From Gordes your walk passes through vines and then an old hamlet surrounding a beautiful courtyard with heated pool. thyme and rosemary scented hills to reach the perched village of Goult, a wonderful historic village far less popular than Gordes but nonetheless charming, its alleyways curled around the ruins of its castle. 14km +240m Day 4: Goult - Bonnieux: Your trail takes you off the beaten track with typical Luberon charm: tiny hamlets, vineyards, an ancient church, bories, and amazing views. You will also visit the beautiful perched village of Lacoste, where you can climb on cobbled streets and visit the ruins of its castle. You then make your way to Bonnieux, another wonderful Provence village. 14km, +390m Day 5: Petit Luberon & Cedar Forest or rest day: After exploring Bonnieux climb onto the Petit Luberon hills for stunning views and a walk through its Cedar Forest. Visit a borie village on the way. You can decide to have a rest day. 14km, +450m Day 6: Bonnieux - Boux: Head through olive groves and scrubland with wild herbs to reach the top of the wild and beautiful Aigue Brun Gorge. Your hotel is in a great location at the base of the gorge. 14km +200 m or 20km +530m The 7 night version heads to Roussillon and then finishes with day 12 below. Day 7: Boux - Saignon: Easy option follows the Aigue Brun Gorge before passing lavender fields to reach Saignon, whilst the harder option passes Fort de Boux, which is well worth a visit, before climbing to the grassy ridge of the Luberon hills for great panoramic views. You’ll then cross the lavender covered plateau south of Apt before a varied walk takes you to the pretty village of Saignon perched on a ridge. 11 -19km up to +750m Day 8: Saignon - St Martin de Castillon: Your trail climbs to a small plateau where tiny hamlets nestle among lavender fields & orchards. The easier option traverses through vine covered slopes with great views, whilst the harder option climbs to the summit of Mourre Negre, at 1125m, the highest point of the Grand Luberon for vast panoramic views. A fine ridge walk follows. 14km or 21km, +380m, or +800m Day 9: St Martin de Castillon - Rustrel: Easy option has varied walking through a mixed landscape of forest, orchards and lavender leading to the hill-top hamlet of Caseneuve, whilst the harder option leads to the historic hill-top village of Viens with its chateau perched on the edge of a rock band. Great views of Gorge d’Oppedette. After, both options explore the wonderful landscapes and colours of the Colorado Provencal where ochre deposits form wonderful towers and fins of rock. Transfer. 16km or 23km, +300m or +450m Day 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 of St Saturnin les Apt, nestled along the base of a long, low cliff, with the ruins of a castle above. Head west through vineyards and orchards. The harder option climbs to the north to follow the top of the impressive Madeleine cliffs overlooking the hamlet of Lioux, which are 100m high and over 1km in length. Great panoramic views before heading south and climb- ing 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 west back towards Gordes via the pretty hamlet of Joucas set above the vines. The longer route heads into the hills to reach the charming hamlet of Mur surrounded by vines and cherry orchards. Your trail descends back to your guest house via the wonderful Vezoule gorge and a beautiful forest. 12km or upto 23km +120m or +440m Day 13: Departure - Transfer to Avignon after breakfastPrice p/p See Price List or Web Site for details. 7 or 12 nights.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] 33
Independent Walking Pyrenees Trails 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, sur- rounded 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 lumi- nous Azun Valley where you’ll marvel at the wonderful panora- mas 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 nights with thermal spa centre in the quiet areas Cerdagne. Breakfast and evening meals at your hotels. Picnic is not included in the ♦ Historic sites and well-preserved mountain price, but can be ordered from your hosts the evening before. villages ♦ Flexible walking itineraries 11 Cerdagne Explorer: Lakes, Mountains & Hot Springs Walks: Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for detailsDay 1: Arrival – Arrive at Latour de Carol and short transfer to hotel in AngoustrineDay 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 second train. Day 6 can include ascent of Pic Carlit. Despite being in mountains, the walking is relatively gentlehighest summit in the eastern Pyrenees. Possibility to swim in the natural hot spring at & accessible to the average hill walker. Relax inLlo. Finish at Mont Louis citadel, a World Heritage site. 4hrs, +550m, -250m natural, warm open air pools & at your hotels.Day 4: Tour from Mont Louis: A short walk along the mythical GR10 (which Dates 1 June - 25 Septembertraverses the Pyrenees) rising to reach the beautiful mountain pass of Cedeille beforetraversing the mountainside and descending the Riberole Valley. Small taxi transfer at6pm and night at Mont Louis. 5hrs, +550m, -750mDay 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) What’s not Travel to Latour de Carol, lunches, drinks, visits,Day 7: Les Bouillouses - Angoustrine: Descent by the Angoust Valley to 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 Pyrenees Balcony Trail: Azun Valley Walks 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 the Profile 6 nights, 6 days independent walking between hotels with 3 day walks. Graded as moderate orbeautiful Bergons forest. Great panoramic views of the glaciated valley des Gaves. 4 hrs moderate/challenging. Moderate grade: average30, 10km +500m distances of 12km & 500m of ascent (maximum 750m). The more challenging grade is longer &Day 3: Arras - Aucun: Climb the Azun Valley by a wonderful balcony trail with average of 900m. Paths are generally good and well defined, but can be rocky & mountainous ingreat views over the vast pastures and nearby mountain peak of Cabaliros. The land- places. Suitable for average hill walkers, as wellscape is peppered with hamlets, mills and barns among the hay fields. Mod: 3hrs 30, as those looking for more of a challenge+400m, –230m, 9km; Mod/chall: 5hrs, +700m, -530m, 11km. Dates 10 June - 25 SeptemberDay 4: Tour from Aucun: Explore the upper reaches of the Bergons Valley withthe opportunity to climb the peak du Bergons, which at 2068m has beautiful panoramicviews. You’ll then pass over several cols under the watchful eye of a vulture or eagle.Mod: 5hrs 45, +750m, 14km; Mod/chall: 7hrs, +1050m, 15km.Day 5: Aucun - Estaing: Change of ambience as you follow the mythical GR10long distance trail to approach the high Pyrenees mountains and its National Park. Mod:4hrs 30, +500m, -200m, 11km; Mod/chall: 5hrs 30, +800m, -500m 12km.Day 6: Tour from Estaing: Detour into the heart of the Pyrenees National Park What’s 6 nights' Half Board accommodation. Full walk- ing notes and maps, transport of luggage be-where your trail explores a number of high mountain lakes, relics of old glaciations, included tween hotels. Transfer from station.where you can look out for marmots and Isards (Pyrenees Chamois). Mod: 5hrs,+500m, 15km; Mod/chall: 7hrs 15, +1100m, 18.5km. What’s not Travel to Argelès-Gazost or Arras, lunches, included drinks, any visits, travel insuranceDay 7: Estaing - Arras: A pleasant return via the Estaing Valley with great viewsof 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.34 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk
Traversing the Pyrenees National ParkT 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 and moun-tain pastures which you’ll discover with a light ruck-sack, as your bags are transported for you. Parts of yourtraverse follow the legendary long distance trail, theGR10, 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 mean- such as the Cirque de Gavarnie with theders in and out of beech and fir woodland before crossing summer meadows and then highest waterfall in Europeonto the edge of the National Park. You will be entering the land of isards, marmotsand large birds of prey. 4 hrs, +800m, -200m (optional detour which adds 1hr 30) ♦ Wonderful trails through a series ofDay 3: Tour from Le Clot cirques with beautiful lakesA circular trail around the Carinquère Massif in the Marcadau Valley It crosses summer ♦ Plenty of wildlife with vultures, eagles,pastures, climbing and contouring the marvels of this lake land region. You’ll discoverthe eastern side of the mighty Vignemale Massif. 6hrs, +/-850m marmots and isardsDay 4: Le Clot - Refuge de Baysellance ♦ Only carrying a light rucksackToday you’ll approach the highest summit in the Pyrenees, le Vignemale (3298 m) by At a Glancethe hanging Gaube valley and its famous lake, loved by the romantic writers such asSand, Baudelaire and Hugo. You’ll discover a rich flora as you pass through various GUIDED / INDEPENDENTstages of vegetation to reach the high Hourquette d’Ossoue pass at 2736m, the highest Price: See Price Listpoint 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, theOssoue Glacier. After a spectacular traverse above the Ossoue Gorge, it’s an easy trail, Dates: 20 June - 10 Septaccompanied 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 often treat-ed 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 to Trou-mouse 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 prevailsWhat’s 7 nights' Half Board accommodation. Transfer either at the start or as walkers share their end of holiday (1 hour). Full walking notes and maps. Transport of stories and experiences.included luggage between accommodation (except on two nights).What’s not Travel to Cauterets or Maillet, lunches, drinks with meals, showers in the mountain huts, any excursions or entrance fees, travelincluded insurance 11 3115 [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 unspoilt region a paradise for walkers wishing to have a real high alpine experience. In addition, its southern location on the border with Italy means it enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year. The circular tour passes through a range of varied landscapes: with mountain torrents snaking down deep gorges and valleys, whilst above, alpine meadows merge with astonishing rocky deserts capped by a succession of stunning mountain ridges and peaks. Its fauna and flora is exceptional with chamois, ibex, marmots, golden eagle and a vast array of rare wild flowers. The region also has a rich architectural heritage which is encapsulated by the pretty alpine village of St Veran. Walks: day-by-day ♦ An unspoilt, rugged Alpine region withDay 1: Arrival – Welcome & pick-up from Mont Dauphin-Guillestre station breath-taking scenery, dramatic walking & a great variety of landscapesDay 2: Molines en Queyras - Ceillac ♦ An alpine circuit where your luggage isToday you'll climb gently through forests to reach the Col Fromage (2301m). From here youhave the option of continuing on to the summit of the Crete de Chabrette (2582m) for some transported for youstunning views of the glaciated peaks of the Fonte Sancte, or descend directly to the village ofCeillac in its deep valley setting. 6hrs, +800m ♦ Accessible mountains, sunny climate &Day 3: Ceillac - St Veran good paths make it an ideal alpine desti- nation for novices & experienced alikeThe 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 ♦ Plenty of historic and cultural interestoff on both sides with the rocky slopes of the Crete de Rasis providing a stark contrast to theflower-filled meadows below. Possibility to summit Tete de Jacquette at 2757m. Descent to St with remarkable & varied architectureVeran with its alpine dwellings with high hay lofts built from Larch. 5hrs,+1050m ♦ Rich alpine flora and faunaDay 4: St Veran - Refuge Agnel At a GlanceYour walk starts by following the torrent of the Aguille Blanche. You then pass through alandscape of tumbling streams, meadows and rocky bluffs. The path climbs steadily to the Col GUIDED / INDEPENDENTde Chamossiere from where it’s possible to easily summit a 3000m peak. The path descendsto the refuge Agnel. Refuge or taxi trip to hotel in St Veran. 6hrs, +1050m Price: See Price List Grade:Day 5: Refuge Agnel - Abriès +After a short ascent you reach the col Vieux (2806m) at the foot of the impressive Pain du Profile:Sucre. From here it’s a spectacular descent along the Bouchouse Valley. You'll pass a coupleof beautiful alpine lakes before joining the Guill Valley. 6hrs, +220 m ; - 1250 mDay 6: Abriès - AiguillesA steady climb out of Abriès along a steep valley leads to the Grand Laus (2579m), astunning 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 mDay 7: Aiguilles - La Chalp, ArvieuxAn enjoyable walk with less climbing. You overlook the Guill valley including the 16th centuryChateau Queyras located on a rock pillar in the valley bottom. The path then winds past thetraditional village of Souliers and Lac de Roue to reach the Arvieux Valley. 6 hrs, + 450 mDay 8: Tour from La Chalp, ArvieuxChoice of 3 possible walks to explore the surroundings of the Arvieux Valley with its ruggedlimestone 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 15/9Price 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, inclusion or exclusion of transfers to and from station. chambres d'hôtes, auberges and a mountain refuge. (Option available to stay at a hotel instead of the mountain refuge). Walking 7 days independent walking moving between guest houses. Average days The comfort varies according to the style. All of the guest Profile are about 6 hours long and include height gains of between 800m and house rooms have private rooms for 2 and all but one or two 1000m. In addition, most walks will take place between 2000m and 3000m have private bathrooms. The mountain hut has small dormitory where the effects of altitude can be felt. A good level of fitness is required, style rooms and is much more basic. However there is a con- and you should be comfortable on mountainous paths. Walking experience vivial atmosphere and the surroundings are magical. Meals are in the mountains is advisable. You should be able to navigate in case of poor taken in your guest house and are local specialities. Your last weather. The paths are mountainous in nature and sometimes exposed, but two nights are in a good 3 star hotel with pool. 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, transport of luggage between guest houses, transfer to & from Mont included Dauphin-Guillestre train station.What’s not Travel to Guillestre, France; lunches, drinks with some evening meals, included any excursions or entrance fees, travel insurance36 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk
Grand Tour of the Ubaye - Hidden AlpsD iscover the wonderful Grand Tour of the Ubaye, a circular Independent Walking trail through a hidden corner of the French Alps. This ♦ Wild alpine landscapes in a quiet part of thealpine trek following the GR56 trail takes you through wild French Alps with accessible summitsand picturesque mountain scenery. During your walk you’ll ♦ A great trek taking in parts of the Verdon,visit the Upper Verdon Valley (where you may well see Mercantour National Park and severalCayolle Ibex), the Mercantour National Park and the famous nature reservesAllos Lake, as well as the Nature Reserve of Lauzanier. This ♦ Beautiful mountains, serene alpine lakes,itinerary will take you through some magnificent landscapes remote traditional hamlets & impressive fortificationswith beautiful alpine summits, serene mountain lakes and ♦ A trek which can be varied in length accord-remote and traditional alpine hamlets. Despite the high alti- ing to your wishes with the option of havingtude, parts of the walk have a distinctly southern feel. The full your bags transported for youtour includes 9 walking days but there is the possibility to do At a Glancesmaller tours covering 6 or 8 walking days. You can decide GUIDED / INDEPENDENTwhether you wish to carry your own gear or have your bags Price: See Price Listtransported for you. Grade: Walks: day-by-day Profile: Day 1: Arrival – Welcome at Gite de Méolans. Dates: 17 June 9 Sept Day 2: Abbaye du Laverq (1600m) - Col d’Allos (2247m) Transfer between your gite and Abbey du Laverq. After a pleasant start in the Laverq Valley you’ll reach the heights to walk between the Ubaye and Verdon Valleys. Follow panoramic ridges to reach Refuge du Col d’Allos. 6hrs 45, +1070m, -420m Day 3: Col d’Allos (2247m) - Refuge de la Cayolle (2266m) 2 possible trails on this long day, either via the valley before climbing to the col & lakes or a quiet trail at altitude in remote mountain country. 7hrs, +1055m, -1010m Day 4: Refuge de la Cayolle (2266m) - Bousieyas (1983m) Progress through the Mercantour National Park and discover the remains of the fortifi- cations on the Maginot line. Admire the mountain scenery from Crête de la Blanche before reaching your gite. (No bag transfer on this stage.) 7hrs 30, +945m, -1335m Day 5: Bousieyas (1983m) - Larche (1670m) For a couple of days you’ll follow the GR5, which traverses the French Alps. Cross two passes, the Col des Fourches & Pas de la Cavale to return to the Ubaye & the Nature Reserve in the Lauzanier Valley, ‘home of the marmots’. 6hrs 30, +985m, -1200m. Day 6: Larche (1670m) - Fouillouse (1905m) You are back close to the Italian border as you climb over Col de Mallemort before descending a beautiful and wild valley. Next climb over Col du Vallonnet dominated by the summit of Brec de Chambeyron (3389m). 5hrs, 45, +1050m, -820m Day 7: Fouillouse (1905m) - Les Prats(1693m) Leave the alpine landscapes behind as you enter pine & larch forests. At St Paul, try the local beer, “sauvage,” brewed just above the village. A balcony path leads you to the impressive fortifications of Tournoux. 7hrs, +830m, -1030m. End of 6 day walk Day 8: Les Prats(1693m) - Refuge de la Pare (1832m) An easier day with a choice of trails either via the valley or a less well used trail through a Mouflon nature reserve. Pass the Col de la Pare to reach Refuge de la Pare. (No bag transfer on this stage.) 5hrs, +950m, -810m Day 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. End of 8 day walk Day 10: Méolan (1070m) - Laverq (1070m) The last stage of the grand tour as you climb to the Col de Séolane which offers magnificent views of Laverq. Descend to reach the abbey and a transfer to Gite de Méolands. 5hrs 30, +1200m, -680m. Departure – Possible to book extra night at Gite de MéolansPrice P/P See Price List or Web Site for details AccommodationWalking 6, 8 or 9 days self-guided walking between gites & refuges. A mixture of gites and mountain refuges. Depending on Profile Average of 6—7hrs walking per day (not including lunch stop) and be- availability, you can choose private rooms for 2 people on 4 tween 600m and 1200m of ascent & descent. The first 6 days are harder nights of the 6 and 8 day treks, and for 5 nights on the full than the last 3 and are more mountainous in character. The walks take tour. The other nights will be in dormitories. Dormitory place on well maintained and marked paths, although they are mountain- rooms vary in size from just a few people up to 40. ous in nature with some steeper and rocky passages. You can choose a Blankets are provided (so you don't need to bring sleeping couple of less well trodden trails. You should have a reasonable level of bags). Tasty and filling meals are taken in a large dining fitness and be comfortable with walking several days in a row on moun- room where a great atmosphere prevails as walkers share tain paths. You should also be sure-footed on mountain paths. You can their stories and experiences. choose whether to carry your own bags or have them transported for you (except two days where it’s not possible).Holiday 6, 8 or 9 nights: 6, 8 or 9 days self-guided walking between gites Profile & refuges. What’s 6, 8 or 9 nights half board accommodation in gites and refuges (in aIncluded mixture of rooms for 2 and dormitories.) Transfer on day 2 and at the end of the last walking day for the 6 and 9 day treks. Transfer of bags (if chosen). Detailed walking notes and walking maps.What’s not Travel to Gite de Méolans, Ubaye, lunches (which can be ordered from 11 included the accommodation), drinks, any visits, travel insurance 37 [email protected]
Trekking Tour of the VANOISEGuided & Independent T his independent or guided holiday in the beautiful Vanoise National Park is a back-packing trek which circles the huge glacial plateau of the Vanoise. The tour allows you to be at close quarters with elegant high mountain peaks and stunning alpine glaciers. Less frequented than the Mont Blanc range, this stunning alpine region in the Savoie (Savoy) offers a quieter but no less spectacular alternative. Designated a National Park, the Vanoise is a natural, unspoilt wilderness where souring alpine peaks with pristine glaciers rise majestically above wild, remote valleys. You’ll start & finish at Pralognan, a traditional alpine village, unspoilt by modern development. Don’t forget your binoculars, as there are a host of protected species including the famous alpine ibex, chamoix, bearded vulture and the golden eagle as well as many rare plants. Walks: day-by-day ♦ Trekking through relatively quiet andDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at hotel in Pralognan unspoilt region of the French AlpsDay 2: Pralognan - Refuge col de la Vanoise ♦ Exciting walking between amazingThis is a great first day's walk which starts by passing the impressive waterfall \"Cascade de alpine peaks rising majestically abovela Fraiche\". Your route then climbs an ancient route used to carry salt, trekking around the wild, remote valleysbase of the stunning rock spire aiguille de la Vanoise sculpted and polished by ice. At theCol de la Vanoise (2517m), you’ll come face to face with the Grande Casse, a true giant of ♦ The Vanoise has a rich fauna and florathe French Alps, with its glacier lapping at the crystal lake at its base. +1100m, 4.5hrs including the largest population ofDay 3: Refuge col de la Vanoise - Refuge de l’Arpont Alpine Ibex in FranceAfter passing a couple of lakes, the trail descends before contouring the valley slopes. The ♦ A real alpine trekking experience takinglandscapes are dramatic and beautiful. You can follow a trail from the Arpont hut to the lacd'Arpont for close up views of the glacier coming from the plateau. +300m, -450m, 5.5hrs in high passes and 5 nights in high mountain huts (refuges)Day 4: Refuge de l’Arpont - Refuge de la Dent Perachée At a GlanceYour day's trek follows alpine meadows covered in wild flowers and rocky slopes below theimpressive peak - La Dent Parachée. Keep your eyes open for ibex and marmots. You'll GUIDED / INDEPENDENTcross numerous streams as the path ascends and descends in turn before the trail headsnorth above the reservoirs Plan d'Amont and Plan d'Aval. +770m, -585m, 6hrs Price: See Price ListDay 5: Refuge de la Dent Perachée - Refuge de l’Orgère Grade:Your day's trek is a relatively easy day and takes a balcony route traversing the mountain Profile:sides. After reaching the Col du Barbier, a small descent takes you through high slopingpasture and then forest before reaching your rustic stone mountain refuge, located below Dates: 15 June—15 Septthe Aiguille Doran. +350m, -860m, 5hrsAlso option of a 6 night holiday going via Col de l’Aussois and then staying atRefuge de la Peche before a wonderful final day with great views and amazingwaterfalls via the Col de Grand Marchet. This is a more difficult option.Day 6: Refuge de l’Orgère - Refuge de Peclet-PolsetAt almost 2800m the Col Chavière is the highest mountain pass on the circuit and early inthe season has snow on its slopes. This pass offers great views across the Vanoise peaksas well as the other great alpine ranges. Your route descends to the refuge through screesand small pools. At the Peclet Polset you can enjoy a short excursion to the beautiful LacBlanc located in a wonderful setting below the Col du Souffre. The mountain hut is in alovely spot surrounded by beautiful alpine peaks rising on all sides. +900m, -300m, 5hrsDay 7: Refuge de Peclet-Polset - PralognanYour final day's walking descends a lovely valley below the imposing mountain walls of thePointe de l'Echelle, Point de l'Observatoire and later the Roc de la Valette. You'll passthrough alpine meadows as you descend gradually towards civilisation. Day 8: Departure - Holiday ends after breakfastPrice p/p See Price List or Web Site for details Accommodation Walking 5 or 6 days trekking moving between mountain refuges, carrying your own In Pralognan you'll be staying in a comfort- Profile gear for the week (back-packing). A day's walking on this trekking holi- able 3 star hotel or equivalent. Whilst on day average between 500m to 1000m of ascent and about 6 hours of walk- trek you'll be staying overnight in high ing. The difficulty of this holiday is increased due to carrying your own gear, mountain refuges or huts. They provide which is why it is graded challenging. We will supply you with a kit list to basic accommoda5on, sleeping in ensure that you carry the bare minimum. The holiday is ideal for those with dormitory style rooms. The rooms vary in some mountain walking experience. You should be reasonably fit before you size from just a few people up start the trek. The paths are generally good although they are mountainous to 50. Blankets are provided (so in nature and often exposed. Early in the season you may encounter snow you don't need to bring sleep- fields at higher cols. ing bags). Tasty and filling meals are taken in a large dining room Holiday 6 or 7 nights: 5 or 6 days independent or guided trekking between where a great atmosphere Profile mountain huts. Starts every day of week subject to availability. prevails as walkers and moun- taineers share their stories andIncluded 6 or 7 nights' full board accommodation (except lunch in Pralognan) in 3*** experiences. hotel in Pralognan & refuges on trek. Full walking notes and maps or guiding.What’s not Travel to Pralognan, France; drinks, lunches on arrival & departure included days, plus on first days trekking, travel insurance38 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 main sum-mits are to be found on a ridge running along its easternedge, the centre piece being Mont Aiguille, an awesomerock tower cast off from the main cliffs. Your traverse willfollow this edge from above and below in the most scenicpart of the Vercors. These undiscovered mountains offersome amazing panoramic views of the alpine chain. TheVercors is also a haven for wildlife with chamois, marmotsand the famous alpine Ibex roaming the upland slopes. Asfor the flora there are 80 protected species representedincluding many rare orchids. You can adapt the number ofdays 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 gap be-tween the cliffs and Mont Aiguille – a unique walking experience. Descend to your hotel atRichardiere. There is an easier walk available on this day. +1050m, 22km 7 hrsDay 6: Richardiere - NonniersAn enjoyable valley walk under giant cliffs before climbing onto the plateau – walk acrossthe bizarre limestone plateau, a chaotic landscape of rocks, covered in pasture with wonder-ful wild flowers. Amazing views throughout of the Chichilianne valley, Mont Aiguille and theAlpine chain. Descend and follow the Combeau valley before a small climb to cross the Colde Cote chevre before descending to the isolated tiny village of Nonniers. 21km, +1000m6hrs 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 - Grimone Grade: 16 Oct Profile:Your final day matches the excitement of the previous walks as you climb through forest to Dates: 1 Juneemerge 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 the sur-rounding 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 moun- magnificent setting. tainous 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 first even-Included ing 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 39 [email protected]
QUEYRAS - Best Kept Secret in the AlpsGuided & Independent T his walking holiday, which explores the spectacular and rela- tively undiscovered Queyras Region by a series of day walks, is available as a guided & independent break. Its range of accessible summits linked by good trails makes this unspoilt region a paradise for walkers wishing to have a real high alpine experience and who love far ranging panoramic views. In addition, its southern location on the border with Italy means it enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year. Your day walks will pass through varied landscapes: with mountain torrents snaking down deep gorges, whilst above, alpine meadows merge with astonishing rocky deserts capped by a succession of stunning mountain peaks. Its wildlife is exceptional with chamois, ibex, marmots, golden eagle and a vast array of rare wild flowers. The region also has a rich architectural heritage which is encapsulated by the pretty alpine village of St Veran. Walks: day-by-day ♦ An unspoilt, rugged Alpine region withDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at guest house in Queyras or in Lyon & transfer breath-taking scenery, dramatic walking & a great variety of landscapesDay 2: Col Neal & Clapeyto meadows (5hrs, +650m) ♦ Great alpine hospitality & food staying inYour week will start with a gentle climb out of the Arvieux Valley through flower-filled alpinepastures to the Col Néal with its numerous glacial lakes. From here, we have stunning wonderful small guest housesviews of the Ecrins mountain range. Your circuit then descends through the pretty hamlet ofClapeyto with its traditional chalets and summer meadows. ♦ Accessible summits, sunny climate &Day 3: Lakes Mirroir & Ste Anne (6hrs, min +800m) good paths make it an ideal alpine desti- nation for novices & experienced alikeStart by visiting the village of Ceillac and the amazing waterfall de la Pisse. After, climbthrough forests to reach the beautiful Lac Mirroir, with stunning limestone peaks rising ♦ Plenty of historic and cultural interestabove lush green pastures. Higher up Lake Ste Anne’s turquoise blue waters are surround-ed by the highest mountain in the Queyras. Option of climbing to a mountain pass for with remarkable & varied architectureexceptional views of the Queyras. Descent by a different route. ♦ A rich alpine flora and faunaDay 4: Chateau Queyras & Lake Souliers (4hrs, +300 - 700m) At a GlanceVisit Chateau Queyras in the morning - the principal fortified site of the region. Our after-noon’s walk starts from the Casse Deserte, an area of barren rocky slopes and wonderful GUIDED / INDEPENDENTpinnacles, before climbing to reach the beautiful lake Souliers, surrounded by rocky moun-tains. Rest in the sun or climb onto a surrounding peak for spectacular panoramic views. An Price: See Price Listalternative longer circuit available taking in pretty hamlet of Souliers & Lake Roue. Grade:Day 5: Tour of Furfande (7hrs, +800m) Profile:Climb to the Col de Furfande, where it’s possible to make the easy ascent of Pic du Gazonat 2744m with great views. Descend to Refuge de Furfande for refreshment before a Dates: 15 June to 15 Septdramatic 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 perfectspot for lunch. Great views. It’s possible to climb up to the ridge beyond and the Pic Malriffor wonderful views of the Ecrins mountain range. Descend via Aiguilles. Possible shorteralternative 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 pleas-ant and easy as you pass tumbling streams, meadows and rocky bluffs to reach the summitwhere views extend to the Piedmont in Italy, the Mont Blanc in France, and the Matterhornin Switzerland. The descent will take you past Lac de la Blanche. We'll visit the historic andwell preserved village of St Véran, the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe. Day 8 Departure - Transfer to Lyon after breakfastPrice p/p See Price List or Web Site for details Date 15 June to 15 September Accommodation Walking 6 days walking staying in two guest houses. Average walking days are Stay in 2 very comfortable and Profile about 6 hours long and include height gains of between 400m and 1000m. charming guest houses or small In addition four of the days include the possibility of ascending further to hotels located close to the walking areas. They offer delight- reach some easy alpine summits where you'll be rewarded by spectacular ful experiences and are run by welcoming and helpful hosts. views. This flexibility allows a group of mixed abilities to make the most of Meals will be taken in your guest house and are delicious the holiday. However, as most walks will take place above 2000m where local specialities served with wine. Example: Ferme d’Izoard the effects of altitude can be felt, and the climbs are sometimes steep, a in Arvieux Valley is a great 3 star hotel with pool at 1700m moderate to good level of fitness is required. You should also be comforta- altitude. ble on mountainous paths and have a good head for heights. Holiday 7 nights: 6 days guided or independent walking. Centre based holiday staying in two guest houses. Self-guided requires own Profile transport to reach walksIncluded 7 nights' full board accommodation, transport to & from Lyon and during the week on guided holiday, 6 guided walks or walking notes & mapsWhat’s not Travel to Lyon or to Queyras, France; lunches on arrival & departure days, included visits, travel insurance40 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 the ♦ Superb panoramic views of the dramaticEcrins. The Oisans or Ecrins massif has a number of and glacier-clad Ecrins mountainsamazing alpine summits which plunge dramatically into the ♦ A wonderful traverse which goes around theRomanche Valley. You’ll discover stunning panoramic northern edge of the Ecrinsviews of glacier-clad mountains such as the Meije and the ♦ High altitude lakes and alpine meadowsBarre des Ecrins at over 4000m in altitude. Your trail takes ♦ Chance to take a cable car up to 3,200m atyou past high alpine lakes, through stunning valleys and the base of the Meije Glacieralong beautiful balcony paths. Benefiting from a relatively ♦ Traditional alpine hamletsclement climate compared to the northern Alps, the Ecrins At a Glanceoffer the walker a unique walking experience. You’ll also GUIDED / INDEPENDENThave the chance to take a cable car to the foot of the Meije Price: See Price ListGlacier at 3,200m and for the more intrepid to take a short Grade: Profile:walk on the glacier itself with a high mountain guide. Dates: 15 June 15 Sept Walks: day-by-dayDay 1: Arrival – Meeting point at La Grave and taxi to Besse en OisansDay 2: Besse en Oisans - Le ChazeletYou’ll traverse the Emparis plateau at 2365m with its numerous alpine lakes. Discoverthis 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 thevalley side of the Meije Massif. 6hrs, +900m, -720mDay 3: Le Chazelet - Villar d’ArêneYou 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 with won-derful panoramic views. Descend by cable car and follow the Tour of Dauphiné and in2hrs 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. Maxi- hotels with a mix of styles. You'll be mum 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, stay- ing 2 nights in Villar d’Arêne. Option of booking extra night at LeProfile 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, any- 41included thing else not listed above [email protected]
ALPS to MED TRAIL Independent 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 ♦ Varied walking through a changing land- Day 1: Arrival – Welcome at your first guest house in the Mercantour. scape from the Mercantour Alps to the Mediterranean coast Day 2: Tour from St Dalmas de Tende ♦ Beautiful perched alpine villages, with a 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 rich historic and cultural heritage with reduce the difficulty and distance by taking the train for some sections. +/- 860 m, 5h30 origins in their Italian past Day 3: St Dalmas de Tende - Saorge ♦ Picturesque valleys under an azur blue Your walking trail will take you through a succession of delightful isolated villages built sky 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 charm- ♦ Dip your feet in the Mediterranean Sea at ing village clinging to the steep mountain sides. Dinner and night at guest house in Saorge. Up to + 600 m/- 700 m, 5h30 the end of your walk Day 4: Saorge - Breil sur Roya At a Glance Discover the alleyways of Saorge, the most beautiful perched village of the region with GUIDED / INDEPENDENT its historic baroque monestary 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 Price: See Price List in the valley bottom, enjoy looking around its lovely historic buildings. + 300m/- 600 m, Grade: 4h30 or Day 5: Breil sur Roya - Sospel Profile: Dates: April - June, Sept - Oct 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 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 Day 6: Sospel - Sainte Agnès Explore Sospel with the remains of its fortified chateau and cathedral. After, your interesting trail takes you to the hill-top village of Sainte-Agnès, the highest coastal 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 Accommodation Walking 6 days walking moving between guest houses. This holiday takes 7 nights in 2 star hotels and small guest houses in Profile place in upland or mountainous areas. The paths are well main- double/twin en-suite rooms. A mix of styles of tained. They pass through a range of types of terrain underfoot. hotels. Evening meals in hotels serving tasty local The walking days average about 5hrs 30. Maximum amount of cuisine. 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 walking Profile 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 insurance42 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 havesplit the 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 youhead south passing by the majestic summits of the MontBlanc range before passing through the Vanoise and Mer-cantour National Parks. Your wonderful trail passesthrough a variety of landscapes, wildlife habitats and his-toric sites including the green alpine pastures of the Savoy,rocky deserts in the Queyras, beautiful perched villages ofthe Roya, snowy peaks of the Mont Blanc and ibex in theMercantour.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 op- ♦ Large variety of landscapes, wildlife and tion possible staying in dormitories throughout or carrying climates own gear. Option of extra night accommodation at Chamonix.Walking 6 days self-guided walking between accommodation. Walking per ♦ Private rooms and luggage transfers 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 11 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 this leg into 2 holidays of 6 & 5 walking days. the alpine meadows of the Abondance Valley before meandering along the foot of the Chablais mountains heading towards the ever- Walking 11 days self-guided walking between accommo- present profile of Mont Blanc. You’ll spend one night in Switzerland Profile dation. Walking per day amounts to an average at the foot of the beautiful mountain of Dents du Midi. of 5 - 8hrs walking and 950m of ascent and descent. Maximum altitude gain: 1200m. TheAccommodation 6 nights half board accommodation in gites and refuges in private rooms walk follows the GR5 for the most part. The walks take place on paths, although they are for 2, bathrooms mainly separate (with the exception of 1 night in a mountainous and rocky in nature. You should have a reasonable level of fitness and be com- dormitory.) fortable 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 op- Itinerary From Briançon you’ll first traverse the beautiful tion: Carrying own gear for whole trek. Option of night’s ac- Queyras regional park with its wonderful flowers and great panoramas, before moving commodation at Nevache at end of trek. onto the secret Alps of the Ubaye Valley. From there its onto the Mercantour National Park, Walking 7 days self-guided walking between accommodation. Walking per with great wildlife before discovering the Profile day amounts to an average of 5 - 7hrs walking and 870m of ascent wonderful perched villages of the Provence. and descent. Maximum altitude gain: 1100m. The walk follows theGrade & date GR5 for the most part, but there are variations proposed in order to Accommo- 11 nights half board accommodation in hotels, avoid ski areas. The walks take place on paths, although they are dation gites and refuges in private rooms for 2 (except 1 mountainous and rocky in nature. You should have a reasonable level of fitness and be comfortable with walking on mountainous night in dormitories in refuge.) terrain with a good head for heights. What’s 11 nights half board accommodation, 3 transfers + 18 June - 18 September included during the holiday to access accommodation. 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] 43
Snow Shoeing in the QueyrasGuided Walking D iscover the French Alps under its winter blanket of snow. Based in a wonderful 3-star hotel in Arvieux, our snow shoeing holiday will allow you to discover the most beautiful landscapes of the Queyras, as well as discovering a region full of unique traditions and architecture. Each day your guide will take you to a different valley in the Queyras Regional Park to discover the best this spectac- ular and relatively undiscovered Queyras Region has to offer. The Queyras is a landscape that offers far ranging panoramic views which are bathed in sunshine for 300 days a year. This holiday is available as a moderate or challenging holiday. The moderate holiday is ideal for those groups looking to discover snow shoeing for the first time as well as experienced walkers looking for an easy week. The more challenging holiday is ideal for those groups experienced in snow shoeing who are looking for a holiday where the walks access wonderful mountain summits. Walks: day-by-day ♦ An unspoilt, rugged Alpine region withDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at Montdauphin—Guillestre train station and transfer to hotel breath-taking scenery, dramatic walking & a great variety of landscapesDay 2: Moderate holiday—Balcony path around St Véran ♦ Great alpine hospitality & food staying inA gentle start to get used to your snow shoes. A wonderful balcony path between 2 prettyhamlets to discover not only Saint Véran, classed as one of the prettiest villages in France, a wonderful 3 star hotel with spa andbut also views of the Queyras summits. 4hrs, +/-300m heated pool.Day 2: Challenging holiday—Pointe des Vallonnets (2450m) ♦ Accessible summits and sunny climateThis panoramic ridge at almost 2500m is little known outside of the Queyras but offers make it an ideal alpine destination forgreat views of the Queyras valleys and its hamlets. 5hrs 30, +/-800m novices & experienced alikeDay 3: Moderate holiday—La Monta to la Medille ♦ Plenty of historic and cultural interestAn easy start before we enter a nature reserve to look for chamois and ibex with superb with remarkable & varied architectureviews of the mighty Mont Viso. 4hrs, +/-400m ♦ A rich alpine faunaDay 3: Challenging holiday—Pic du Chalvet (2475m) At a GlanceA pretty and direct itinerary through forest and clearings in a wild valley bringing you to asummit at almost 2500m with great views of Mont Viso. 6hrs, +/-950m GUIDED / INDEPENDENTDay 4: Moderate holiday—Le Raux—la Croix de Curlet (2301m) Price: See Price ListFrom le Raux we’ll follow the torrent Aigue Blanche through larch forest to reach the sum- Grade:mit of la Croix de Curlet. A walk along a ridge provides great panoramic views over SaintVéran and surrounding summits. Guided visit of Saint Véran. 4hrs 30, +/-480m Profile:Day 4: Challenging holiday—Pic de la Gardiole (2786m) Dates: See detailsToday we’ll climb to almost 2800m, where the view from the summit takes in the wholeQueyras range. Superb descent. 6hrs +1050m, -900mDay 5: Moderate holiday—Arvieux and Chalets de ClapeytoNot far from your hotel you’ll climb under immense cliffs through small plateaux and valleysto reach the traditional alpine chalets of Clapeyto, a picture postcard scene. 5hrs, +/-500mDay 5: Challenging holiday—Pic du Fond de Peynin (2910m)This walk is first and foremost a classic among mountain skiers but less well know for snowshoes. Its central location provides exceptional views over the park. 6hrs +/-900mDay 6: Moderate holiday—la Rua—Bucher summitClimb to reach the Bucher summit at 2254m with 360° views across the Queyras moun-tains. A great final day. 4hrs 30 +/-500m.Day 6: Challenging holiday—Pic Traversier (2882m)A superb high mountain feel on this walk which leads to a summit with unique views of theAlpine chain. 6hrs, +/-950m Day 7: Departure - Transfer to train station after breakfastPrice p/p See Price List or Web Site for details Dates Starts every Sunday from 19/12/16 for 6 nights to 04/02/17 Accommodation & then every Sunday between 05/03/17 & 01/04/17 Walking 5 days snow shoeing staying in one 3 star hotel. Moderate & chal- Stay at Ferme d’Izoard a very comfortable and charming 3 Profile lenging options. Moderate: Average walking days are about 4 hours 30 star hotel at 1700m in the Arvieux Valley. Run by welcoming and include ascents of 450m. Challenging: Average walking days are about and helpful hosts Vanessa and Jean Michel, your hotel serves 6 hours and 950m of ascent. Moderate walks are ideal for novices and great food. After your walk you can relax in one of their two challenging walks for people with some snow shoeing experience. Many of lounges or in the heated swimming pool or spa room. the walks on both holidays take place above 2000m where the effects of altitude can be felt, and so a moderate to good level of fitness is recom- mended. We provide you with snow shoes, walking poles and ava- lanche transceivers. Holiday 6 nights: 5 days guided snow shoeing. Centre based holiday Profile staying in 3 star hotel.Included 6 nights' full board accommodation, transfer from local train station before & after holiday, transport during the week, 5 guided walks, provision of snow shoes, poles & security equipment.What’s not Travel to local train station, drinks with meals, visits, travel insurance included44 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 less fre-quented 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 full in a picturesque landscape of local character and small independent family run hotels offering high quality of service. Many ♦ Great panoramic views are in historic properties, set in wonderful medie- val village locations, some have swimming pools. ♦ Wonderful guest houses & hotels Warm welcome and gastronomic food. Example: Jeanne Maison d’hôte is a small bed and 11♦Classic Dordogne or off the beaten track breakfast in a historic property in the heart of Collonges-la-Rouge. Delights of Historic Dordogne Walks Price P/P See Price List or Web Site for details GradeDay 1: Arrival – Welcome at your guest house in Souillac - a bustling market Profile 6 self-guided walks, moving between guesttown found on the train line. Explore the fine Romanesque Abbey. houses. Staying in 2 of the guest houses for two nights. The holiday is graded easy. Two of theDay 2: Rouffillac - Carsac: A short transfer to Rouffillac. Follow the banks of the days allow you to increase the amount of walking or to rest. Average: 12km with limited ascentsriver through glorious countryside and visit Chateau Fenelon. Today’s destination is and descents. All the walks are on good paths,Carsac, a lovely village in the heart of Perigord Noir. 13.5km, +/- 70m although some sections can be muddy and rocky. Anyone in good health can enjoy this holiday.Day 3: Sarlat: A choice today or maybe do both! A circular walk from Carsac Dates 15 April - 15 Octthrough wonderful countryside, or, walk into Sarlat, which is the jewel in the crown ofDordogne. A magnificent medieval town with superb architecture. 12 - 16km, +/- 100m What’s 7 nights accommodation, including all breakfasts, included four dinners, 2 transfers during the week, fullDay 4: Carsac - Domme: Walk through the enchanting valley towards Domme, a walking notes and maps, transport of luggagebastide village which offers amazing views of the surrounding region. Explore prettyquaint streets and the caves to be found in Domme. 12.5km, +/- 130m What’s not Travel to Souillac, France; lunches, 3 evening included meals, visits, travel insuranceDay 5: Domme - La Roque Gageac: Wander through enchanting countrysideto the beautiful village of La Roque Gageac. Along the way take the opportunity to visitChateau Castelnaud. Explore the gardens at Chateau Marqueyssac. 12.5km, +/- 100mDay 6: Beynac: A day walk out of La Roque Gageac. Head towards Beynac andvisit 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, +/- 80mDay 7: St Cyprien - Les Eyzies: A transfer to St Cyprien & from here its on toLes 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 to 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 to Collonges-la-Rouge: Head north on the GR480 valleys and hills. On the first two days it is possible to greatly vary the amount of walking which meansthrough the pretty hamlet of Ligneyrac before reaching the wonderful village of that the 4-day holiday can be made into an easyCollonges-la-Rouge built from a vibrant red sandstone. 10 - 19km +160m - 430m walk. The 6 day walk becomes hillier as the holidayDay 4: Collonges-la-Rouge to 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 to 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 to Le Pescher: Head north through Dates Everyday (subject to availability) April - Octa beautiful landscape of vines, pasture and forest into the first hills of the Massif Cen-tral as the valleys become more tortuous and the hills become higher. 20km, +450mDay 6: Pescher to Roche de Vic: You’ll have wonderful views over the Sour- What’s 5 or 7 nights accommodation, 1 or 2 lunches & 4 or included 5 evening meals, transfer from and to Brive ladoire 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, walk-Day 7: Roche de Vic to Aubazine: Short transfer then follow remote ridges ing 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] 45
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 the oppor-tunity to visit the Musee de Cazals. The footpath follows the escarpment bordering the valley,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 tours long-est 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 insurance46 Book now on +44 (0)7483 241 945 or visit www.highpointholidays.co.uk
Tarn’s Medieval Bastides Independent WalkingA large number of medieval villages known as 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 bastides includ-Day 2: Castlenau - Donnazac ing 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 remarka- ♦ Gaillac vineyards and historic oak forestsble bastide of Cordes-sur-Ciel, widely considered to be the finest fortified village in ♦ Lovely guest houses & great cuisineFrance. Climb into the old town to explore the narrow winding streets and the well pre-served 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 to Profile:reach your next bastide – Bruniquel. Like many of the villages you’ll explore, it is classedas 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 swim- Average day: 17km, +330m. Some days include options to vary the ming pools. Warm welcome and great regional cuisine. e.g. walking length and difficulty. Les Vents Bleus is a 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 47 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 and from Gaillac station for self-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 conserva- tion 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. The choice is greater if you have your own car. 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. Self Guided has price Accommodation option for bringing your own vehicle. Date April - October You’ll stay in 2 beautiful guest houses conveniently located for Walking 6 days guided or self-guided day walks. The walking is mixed allowing your walks. They are 3 star Profile walkers of moderate ability to enjoy the ever changing views and land- equivalent, in historic properties scapes. Some moderate ascents up and down gorges and hills totalling offering an authentic and very 350m in a day. Most walks average 5 hrs walking. The walks can be comfortable stay in B&B style varied to the fitness of the group on the guided holiday. Choice of walks guest houses. The welcome is on self-guided dependent on whether you have own transport. Price warm and generous and the local includes transfers to walks. Options to extend walks on self guided cuisine and wine is first rate. (One holiday. Paths are generally good, although occasionally rough and guest house on self-guided steep. version.)Holiday Profile 7 nights: 6 days walking based in two guest houses on guid- ed holiday and one guest house on self-guided holiday What’s 7 nights full board accommodation (except for 2 evening meals). included Pick-up from Toulouse or Rodez airports on guided holiday & Gaillac station on self-guided, all transport for the week, 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, any entrance fees, 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 & inde- Guided & Independent pendent break, explores the Northern Auvergne which ishome to some of the finest landscapes in France. They makefor interesting and varied walking with lush green valleyssheltering beneath upland ridges and peaks, affording breath-taking views in all directions. The Auvergne is also home to anumber of wonderful medieval churches and basilicas. Thereare also many charming historic villages such as Orcival andBesse, set within sumptuous natural scenery protected by aregional natural park. Your walking holiday will explore manyof the features that make up this beautiful landscape includingvolcanic and glacial lakes, volcanic domes, rocky cliffs, seclud-ed valleys and dramatic waterfalls. In the north, the Chainedes Puys are a range of 80 geologically recent volcanic domesand 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 land- domes easily accessible on footscape, unique in Europe. With some volcanoes as young as 7000 years old, this region ofperfectly preserved volcanic cones lets you walk back in time to an era when lava & hot ♦ Dramatic waterfalls, beautiful lakes and wildash filled the skies. Then ascend Puy de Dome, the highest and most impressive of theyoung volcanoes at 1465m, by train. Site of 1st century Roman Temple. 12km, +330m mountain sceneryDay 3: Orcival & glaciated valleys ♦ Historic villages built from volcanic stoneVisit the pretty historic village of Orcival nestled in a secluded valley and its 12th century with great ecclesiastical monumentsbasilica. This walk also passes chateaux, chapels & historic villages. After climbing awayfrom the historic village of Rochefort Montagne, the trail takes you along a delightful ♦ Welcoming guest houses in historic buildingsridge to the edge of a beautiful glaciated valley with great views, before descending toOrcival via a pilgrims path with the Stations of the Cross. 18km, +480m At a GlanceDay 4: Descent from Puy de Sancy GUIDED / INDEPENDENTYou’ll take the cable car to the top of the Puy de Sancy, a spectacular summit with Price: See Price Listamazing views, which is the highest in the whole of the Massif Central, reaching 1885m(6184ft). After taking in the views you’ll follow the edge of the glacial u-shaped valley Grade:revealing 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 11 Profile based holiday staying in small rural guest houses or hotels 49 What’s 7 nights full board accommodation, (except one evening meal on included 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 included to have access to a vehicle to drive to the walks each day; lunches 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 of ridges, peaks and valleys of stunning beauty that you'll simply never tire of. Beautiful U-shaped valleys radiate out- wards defined by rugged and airy ridges that emanate from rocky summits. The rich green mountains have a wild un- tamed feel. The Cantal has a rich historical legacy through its rural settlements and farms. The local architecture is simple yet easy on the eye; the sturdy cottages blending seamlessly into the mountainous backdrop. The area is also a haven for wildlife, including birds of prey, deer, marmots, mouflon, chamois and a host of wild flowers. Walks: day-by-day ♦ Sumptuous landscape of wild and ruggedDay 1: Arrival – Welcome & transfer from Murat train station or agreed pick up on ridges, elegant peaks & glaciated valleysguided holiday. ♦ Exciting and dramatic walks which takeDay 2: Puy de Niermont you off the well trodden paths onto rocky ridges and airy summitsA fairly easy ascent to ease you into the week. Once you’ve climbed out of the glaciatedvalley you’ll follow a picturesque ridge to the summit for fabulous 360° views, providing a ♦ A rich upland flora and faunagood overview of the Cantal Mountains. Afterwards, explore the unique landscape of the ♦ An important rural heritage withLimon plateau with moors and pastures, punctuated by small hills and valleys. 6hrs, +630m picturesque well preserved villagesDay 3: Puy Griou ♦ A unique holiday, created to experienceThe Puy Griou is a beautiful isolated volcanic peak. Those who have a good head for heightscan go to its top for great views. Explore the beautiful Jordanne Valley and also summit Puy the finest Cantal walks and landscapesUsclade for unique panoramas. 5hrs 30, +810m At a GlanceDay 4: Puy Mary GUIDED / INDEPENDENTA great walk that takes in the summit of the Puy Mary, the emblematic mountain of theCantal range. You'll climb to the Col de Cabre from your B&B before following an amazing Price: See Price Listand dramatic ridge (pictured above) with a small section of scrambling. You’ll then ascendthe Puy Mary. The summit and descent ridge provides some of the finest views in the Grade:Cantal. You’ll then descend an isolated glaciated valley back to your B&B. 6hrs 30, +820m Profile:Day 5: Rest day, visit Murat or optional small walksA chance to relax at your guest house or visit the local historic market town of Murat. Dates: 15 May - 15 OctDay 6: Puy de Peyre ArseA great day for those who enjoy aesthetic mountain routes away from the main paths. You’llascend the superb, rocky north east ridge of the Puy de Peyre Arse. This is a beautiful ridgeascending 700m, leading almost directly from the B&B to its lofty summit. After amoderate descent you’ll scale the various summits of the Puy Bataillouse to complete thisfabulous horseshoe. 6hrs, +1050mDay 7: Cirque du Falgoux & Puy TourteA beautiful and wild ridge which follows one side of the cirque du Falgoux all the way to Puyde Tourte opposite Puy de Mary. Great panoramic views throughout. 7hrs, +850mOther walks: On self-guided holiday your walking guidebook will provide instructionsfor other walks such as a traverse of Puy Chavaroche, starting from the pretty historicvillage of Mandailles in the beautiful Jordanne Valley. Day 8: Departure - Transfer to Murat after breakfastPrice 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 the walks range from 12 - 20km with an average of 800m of ascent. (Maximum Cantal Mountains. The guest house pro- daily ascent 1050m). The terrain is mountainous with paths which are gen- vides authentic & comfortable en-suite erally good although they can be rough, stony & less well-defined in places. 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. More information see page 5. 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
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