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Bavaria is one of the most beautiful regions of Germany, especially around Berchtesgaden on the German-Austrian border not far from Salzburg (where the Sound of Music was filmed). Cow bells, alpenhorns, lederhosen, true Bavarian beer... and women having a fabulous introduction to walking in the Alps! You'll be surrounded by high mountain scenery, forests and gorges to walk through, and alpine pastures where farms sell milk and homemade bread and butter. There is also beautiful fiord-like Konigsee Lake, which we can cross by electric ferry to reach a lovely walk to Obersee and the 'ice chapel'. In addition, there are old baroque churches like the Maria Gern, or our path might return via an open-air swimming pool where we can stop for a dip. Since we're in Bavaria, we will of course never be far from a Gaststaette in the afternoon - for wonderful cake and coffee! There will be a choice of gentle and low intermediate walks each day, so this is an excellent opportunity to find out how much you can do if you're not sure. We will be climbing some hills, but at a slow and steady pace well within WalkingWomen grades. The paths are good, and since we're in the Alps, the air should be cooler for walking. On one day we will have a day off from walking to enjoy the local spa complex of swimming pools, steam rooms, and brine baths, or to visit Salzburg for a Mozart or Sound of Music tour (Salzburg is 40 minutes by bus). We'll be staying at the very comfortable and friendly Hotel Wittelsbach in the centre of Berchtesgaden where all the rooms have ensuite facilities, and women rave about the breakfasts! In the evening we will explore the good range of restaurants in town (not included - from £15). Single supplement: £10 a night. Guided by Yvonne & Heidi.

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Flight to Salzburg is not included. Transfer to Berchtesgaden IS included!
You can fly from Gatwick or Manchester to Salzburg with Thomsons. You can buy this flight through Charterflights.co.uk, or we are happy to book it for you (for a WW flight booking fee of £10).

The Gatwick & Manchester flights arrive at different times, and there will be 2 separate transfers to Berchtesgaden. These transfers are included in the cost of the holiday, and will take just under an hour.

Also includes: breakfast & packed lunches, transfer from Salzburg meeting BA flight, & all transport to walks - including ferry trip, + guided walks.

Not included: flight to Salzburg; evening meals out in local restaurants.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

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Last year we moved our Wye Valley holiday to the Royal George Hotel near Tintern Abbey which has proved a great success. Here there are plenty of quality ensuite double rooms available as singles. This lovely area is steeped in history and rich in wildlife, archaeology, and industrial remains. The River Wye forms the boundary between England and Wales, and King Offa built his famous dyke near the English bank. In places ancient woodland clings to the steep sides of dramatic limestone gorge, while elsewhere the river is boarded by tranquil meadows. Our first walk will take us across the river, and up to Brockweir Bridge before returning along the opposite bank. There is a local vineyard to visit, and we can stop for tea and home-made cakes at the old station. On other days we'll take the bus and walk to the spectacular Eagle's Nest viewpoint or explore historic tracks towards Angidy. After walking we can explore Tintern village with its old pubs, tourist shops and craft galleries. Tintern is easy to reach by road or rail - close to the M4 & M5, or a 6-mile taxi or bus ride from Chepstow station. (Ensuite single supplement £15 a night).

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Travel - nearest train station: Chepstow, then bus or taxi to Tintern.

Includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals, any transport to walks, + guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

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Grasmere is one of the most central yet easily reached villages in the Lake District - with stunning scenery that has inspired poets and artists alike. There's also lots to do after walking - from visiting Dove Cottage, to tea shops and water-colour studios. We'll be staying at Glenthorne Guest House not far from the village centre, with wonderful views in three directions, comfortable bedrooms, and excellent food! Grasmere is a wonderful area for gentle breaks with a host of low level choices. We might start with a lovely lakeshore path beside Grasmere and Rydal Water, returning via Rydal Cave and Loughrigg Terrace for its stunning view over the lake. The wooded bridle path to Rydal village is also delightful, and we might stop at White Moss Common for the view - or at Rydal Hall for tea beside its tumbling beck. We can walk to beautiful Loughrigg Tarn (a small lake), or climb the path beside Sour Milk Gill waterfall to Easedale Tarn in the hills. On other days there are woodland paths where we might hear woodpeckers, the wild valley of Far Easedale to explore, or the stunning views from Dow Bank and even Silver Howe - whatever we feel up for!

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Travel - nearest train station: Windermere, then frequent bus from the station forecourt to Grasmere + 4 minutes walk to Glenthorne.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals + guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

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Away from the crowds, this August break has exclusive use of High Trenhouse near tranquil Malham Tarn in the Yorkshire Dales - a beautifully converted farm and outbuildings on the edge of the moors above Malham Cove and Gordale. The Pennine Way from Malham Cove passes close by on its way to Fountains Fell and Pen-y-ghent, and across the moors are interesting paths to the pretty village of Arncliffe and the lively town of Settle with its tearooms and small shops. High Trenhouse offers a large number of single rooms - a boon for WW groups - and most have ensuite facilities. There are comfortable spaces for relaxing or making our own fun including a small honesty bar. The food is delicious, and there's even a sauna and Jacuzzi - so bring your swimsuit! A choice of Gentle and Intermediate walks each day will allow you to move between the grades to take it easy or stretch according to mood. We will also arrange an inexpensive shared lift from nearby Settle station at approx 4pm.

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Travel - nearest train stations: Settle (or Skipton). There will be an inexpensive shared lift from Settle station at 4pm.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals, any transport to walks, + guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

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This Gentle holiday with Caroline encompasses one of the loveliest stretches of the Thames between Henley and Windsor, combining walking and sightseeing, and including a trip on a traditional river steamer. We will stay at the lovely Thames Riviera Hotel by the river at Maidenhead where we have reserved mainly single ensuite rooms. Each day we will enjoy different walks beside the river, often taking the train to a new starting point. We'll pass Boulter's Lock, and the homes of the rich and famous at Bray and walk through pretty riverside towns and villages such as Marlow and Cookham where Wind in the Willows was written. We'll pass under Brunel's railway bridge with its longest brick arch in the world. Arriving at Elton meadows, we'll have a wonderful view of Windsor castle, and there'll be time to visit the town and castle in the afternoon. On our final day, we'll walk to Cliveden House (National Trust), the former home of the Astor family, to enjoy the river view from its beautiful gardens - a perfect way to finish this delightful gentle holiday!

Travel - nearest train station: Maidenhead station, then 5 minute taxi to the hotel.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, 3 evening meals, all transport to walks, Thames river boat trip + guided walks.

Not included: 1 restaurant evening meal - from £15 - probably on the last night. Cliveden gardens entrance fee (bring National Trust card if you have one).

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

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This summer Clare & Yvonne offer you a choice of Gentle and Intermediate walks from comfortable Losehill Hall near Castleton where the landscapes of the White and the Dark Peak meet. You can choose the grade you prefer: Gentle walks include the Hope Valley and fascinating Cavedale nearby; a visit to the Blue John Cavern, a gentle walk in Edale, or we might want to stretch ourselves for fabulous views from Mam Tor by taking a gently ascending route onto this stunning broad ridge. Intermediate walks will include more ridges and moors - the Great Ridge of Rushup Edge, Mam Tor and Losehill; the striking Kinder Edges from Edale; Win Hill ridge with its fab views over Ladybower reservoir; or the circuit of Abney Moor from Brough or Bradwell. Losehill Hall is a lovely old Victorian mansion set in its own extensive grounds 10 mins walk from Castleton village, and we've reserved all ensuite singles without a supplement. Losehill Hall is the National Peak Park Study Centre, run on eco-centre lines (everything is recycled, ensuite showers instead of baths, communal tea/coffee facilities…). The Hall has a good bar, a comfortable lounge, and the food served in the dining room is excellent.

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Travel - nearest train station: Hope Station, then 2 mile taxi ride to Losehill Hall.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals, any transport to walks, + a choice of guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

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This 3 night break at our new venue, Earnley Concourse centre on the south coast near Chichester, offers you a choice of Gentle and Low Intermediate walks enjoying the Chichester Harbour Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty as well as fine views from the South Downs. For Gentle walks we can head across the fields to Pagham Harbour and 13th century St Wilfrid's Chapel on one day, and on another day we'll enjoy views of Chichester Harbour when we walk to the pretty villages of Itchenor and Bosham - taking a brief ferry ride across the channel. This Bosham walk can also be extended to make a Low Intermediate walk to the cathedral city of Chichester with its Roman walls and fine medieval Market Cross. Another Low Intermediate walk will head up onto the South Downs through the fantastic yew trees of Kingley Vale for superb views across Chichester harbour to the sea. On the last day both groups can enjoy walks of different lengths from East Lavant, taking a path which brings you gently up onto Downs overlooking Goodwood Racecourse, then finishes through fabulous bluebell woods. Earnley Concourse centre is a wonderful new 'find' for WW groups, with plenty of comfortable ensuite single rooms available, a large dining room and comfortable lounge, beautiful grounds, and even an indoor heated swimming pool for relaxing after walking!

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Travel - nearest train station: Chichester station is 10-15 mins by taxi, or the center has plenty of parking.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals, all transport to walks; + a choice of guided walks each day.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

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These peaceful meditation break is guided by Alison, and is based at Glenthorne Guest House in Grasmere. Over the 3 days we will walk and talk, but also find opportunities for silence - stopping somewhere special to sit, be with nature, and find our inner stillness. A willingness to sit in silence and be still is all that is necessary. The caring and sharing of the group will assist in this process of turning down the volume of our busy lives, and participants should leave with a stronger sense of connection with spirit, themselves, and each other. Alison, as a yoga instructor, will also offer a yoga session each day (optional). Please bring a sit-mat and warm fleece for sitting outdoors, and loose clothing for yoga sessions. We have reserved a yoga/meditation space at Glenthorne in case the weather turns unfavourable.

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Travel - nearest train station: Windermere, then frequent bus from the station forecourt to Grasmere. 4 mins walk to Glenthorne.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals + guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

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This new short break is based at the Castle & Ball hotel in the attractive town of Marlborough, offering Gentle length walks from Avebury and onto the Marlborough Downs. We'll see Avebury's striking 5000 year old stone circle which has been designated a World Heritage Site, and walk down West Kennet Avenue - an avenue of standing stones leading to the Sanctuary. We will also see fascinating Silbury Hill on our way to West Kennet Long Barrow - an ancient burial chamber that we can enter. On the last day we can head up onto the lovely beautiful Marlborough Downs or walk over Fyfield Down with its numerous Sarsen stones and stunning views. The Castle & Ball offers beautifully decorated ensuite twins and plenty of ensuite singles (Ensuite single suppl. £15 a night). In the evening we can choose from the hotel's delicious menu, or go out to eat (evening meals are not included: from £15). The hotel has parking, or Bedwyn station is 7 miles by taxi or good bus service. (Avebury entrace fee: £4.70. NT members free).

Travel - nearest train station: Bedwyn, then 7 mile taxi or bus ride to Malborough.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, transport to walks + guided walks.

Not included: Evening meals from £15; Avebury entrance fee of £4.70 (National Trust members free).

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

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The Dalmatian island of Brac lies off the coast from Split, threaded by lovely old mule tracks through olive groves and pinewoods. Ancient chapels and monasteries dot the island while along the rocky coast there are pebbly coves that invite a swim and small picturesque fishing resorts. Sutivan is one of these - built of famous Brac stone, and at night you can see the lights of Split across the water. Sutivan has no hotels so we do as Croatians do and stay in small apartments, all within walking distance of Pension Dora whose vine covered courtyard and restaurant/bar we will use as our focal point. Here we will share breakfasts, and meals on 4 evenings. On 3 evenings we'll eat out at seafront restaurants in smaller groups (not included - from £8). The apartments are simple and typically Croatian, some with ensuite rooms, others with 2 single rooms sharing a bathroom and small kitchen. Some have a terrace for relaxing after walking, others have sea views. At Pension Dora there are ensuite twins and singles. Besides a choice of Gentle & Low Intermediate walks, we will also take a day off to enjoy the sea, hire a bike or sea kayak, visit Diocletian's Palace, or simply relax with a book! Guided by Lorraine & Madeline.

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Flight to Split is not included - travel beyond Split IS included!: You can fly to Split with Easyjet from Gatwick & Bristol, and with Thomas Cook from Manchester - all landing in the morning.

Depending on the 2010 schedule, you may also be able to fly from Birmingham & Southampton. Please check with us before you buy your flight - or we are happy to buy it for you if you prefer (WW flight booking fee £10). Book early for the best prices - Easyjet flights are available now!

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, 4 evening meals, airport transfers, ferry to Brac, transport to walks, + a choice of guided walks each day.

Not included: Flight to Split; 3 evening meals; & any activity you do on the day off.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

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Mull is one of the largest of the Hebridean islands off the west coast of Scotland. It has a long and strikingly beautiful coastline of high cliffs and bays, with caves and rock arches, and views out to the many smaller islands that surround it. Most notable of these is the 'Holy Isle' of Iona where we will walk on one day. Another rewarding visit might be to cathedral-like Fingle's Cave on the island of Staffa, whose geometrical basalt pillars have even inspired a Mendelssohn overture! On other days we will take beautiful walks along Mull's coastline, stopping at sandy bays, or walking to other famous caves and rock features. The walks will Gentle in grade. We will be staying at women-run Ardachy House Hotel on the south coast, overlooking the deserted sands of Ardalanish Bay and the islands of Jura, Colonsay, and Islay. Iona is only 7 miles away; seals, otters and the elusive Corncrake are regular visitors to the area, and there is a standing stone and Iron Age fort close by. The hotel offers ensuite twin rooms, and plenty of ensuite or standard singles. Some of the bedrooms and the residents' lounge have a lovely view towards the sea. Mull is reached by train from Glasgow to Oban, then a magical ferry to Craignure on Mull, & local bus from the ferry to Bunassen where Maggie & Cathy will collect you. Guided by Fran. (Staffa Island boat trip £15 not included in the price as it depends on the weather).

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Travel to Mull: Mull is reached by a magical ferry trip from Oban on Scottish mainland. Oban is served in turn by a regular rail service from Glasgow, the overnight sleeper from London, and is also easily accessible by road (2.5 hours from Glasgow). Alternatively you can fly to Glasgow then take the train to Oban.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals, all transport to walks, ferry to Iona + guided walks.

Not included: Staffa Island boat trip not included as it depends on weather conditions: £15. Bus from the ferry at Craignure to Bunassen £6 (collected from bus stop by Maggie or Cathy).

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

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Last year we moved our Wye Valley holiday to the Royal George Hotel near Tintern Abbey which has proved a great success. Here there are plenty of quality ensuite double rooms available as singles. This lovely area is steeped in history and rich in wildlife, archaeology, and industrial remains. The River Wye forms the boundary between England and Wales, and King Offa built his famous dyke near the English bank. In places ancient woodland clings to the steep sides of dramatic limestone gorge, while elsewhere the river is boarded by tranquil meadows. Our first walk will take us across the river, and up to Brockweir Bridge before returning along the opposite bank. There is a local vineyard to visit, and we can stop for tea and home-made cakes at the old station. On other days we'll take the bus and walk to the spectacular Eagle's Nest viewpoint or explore historic tracks towards Angidy. After walking we can explore Tintern village with its old pubs, tourist shops and craft galleries. Tintern is easy to reach by road or rail - close to the M4 & M5, or a 6-mile taxi or bus ride from Chepstow station. (Ensuite single supplement £15 a night).

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Travel - nearest train station: Chepstow, then bus or taxi to Tintern.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals, any transport to walks, + guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

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White dolomite mountains, crystal clear lakes, hayracks and traditional villages, river gorges and tumbling waterfalls… Slovenia is surely one of the most beautiful and friendly places to visit in Europe! For this holiday we will be based in Bled on the edges of the Julian Alps - a small resort town beside a jewel of a lake. Bled is surrounded by meadows and beech woods. We can walk on good paths around the lake and into the surrounding countryside - to pretty villages with their wooden barns and ornate church spires, and to dramatic Vintgar Gorge. This year there will be a choice of Gentle and Low Intermediate walks each day - and you can swap grades if need be to stretch or take it easy. After walking, we can sit in cafés by the lake, visit the castle, and row to the island (or get a boatman to take us there!) On one day we will visit lovely Lake Bohinj to walk along its shore. Here we can also take the Vogel cable car to reach views of the Julian Alps, then catch the ferry back along the lake (Cable car optional - £8). For this holiday we have reserved all the rooms at Penzion Vila Kolinska in a quiet residential part of Bled - ensuite twin rooms and a good number of ensuite singles (Single supplement £10 a night). In the evening we'll walk back into the centre to explore Bled's good places (evening meals not included - from £15). Guided by Madeline & Helen.

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Flight to Ljubljana not included. Transfer to meeting Easyjet flight is included!:
For this holiday you can fly to Ljubljana with Easyjet from London Stansted. (No Adria flights from Manchester on these dates). Or you can take an indirect flight from Manchester with Air France.

You can book the Easyjet flight yourself - or we can book it for you (WW flight booking fee £10). The transfer meets the Easyjet flight and is included in the price.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, airport transfer meeting Easyjet flight, all transport to walks, ferry on Lake Bohinj, gorge entrance fees + a choice of guided walks.

Not included: Flight to Ljubljana; evening meals - from £12; cable car (optional) - £8.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335

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The Cotswolds have proved very sought after, so here is a new gentle Cotswolds weekend at Frampton Mansell close to Cirencester based at The Crown Inn. The Crown offers plenty of comfortable and recently renovated ensuite singles and twins away from the bar in a separate annex. Our walks will take us down into the Golden Valley in both directions - beside the River Frome to the lovely Cotswolds villages of Daneway and Sapperton, returning through Siccaridge Wood Nature Reserve, and westward beside the old Thames & Severn Canal and the River Frome - a delightful sample of Cotswolds beauty enhanced by pools, lakes, and streams. On Friday there can be an extra walk if you can arrive by 1pm - possibly exploring Cirencester Park and the lovely town of Cirencester with its Corinium Museum. Kemble station or mainline Stroud station are only 7 miles away by taxi. There is also plenty of parking if you come by car. Guided by Caroline. (Ensuite single supplement. £15.00 a night).

Travel - nearest train station: Kemble or Stroud (mainline) - both are approximately 7 miles away by taxi.

Also includes: breakfasts, packed lunches, + guided walks.

You can book online - or phone us on: 08456 445335