In the past few months, we've been on a journey across the country, uncovering the newest and most exciting destinations to add to our catalog. We're particularly thrilled about some of these new trips and would love to introduce them to you, so you can start dreaming (and booking) for 2024.
From fresh Caminos in the land of mysterious Etruscans to the shimmering Sardinian Coast, from the fragrant lavender fields of Provence to the volcanic spirit and tropical forests of the Azores, and from new routes on the Camino de Santiago to the enchanting beauty of Northern Latium, here's a mix of incredible journeys to feast your eyes (and your feet) upon.
Cilento
If you are dreaming the Mediterranean but large crowds are your own personal nightmare, drive less than 3 hours from Amalfi and you will find a well-kept secret not even a lot of Italians know of: the Cilento is best known to produce the best buffalo mozzarella the South has to offer, but has much more to offer than just this gooey, decadent specialty.
The long sandy beaches of Cilento boast blue-flagged, crystal-clear water, the hotels authentic, warm hospitality, the fishing villages of Sapri and Scario a typical Southern charm; the ancient Greek city of Paestum – once called Poseidonia to honor the Sea God Poseidon – enchants its visitors with three extraordinarily well-preserved Greek temples and the impressive collections of artifacts treasured in the local museum.
What’s more to like? A lot, if you like hiking. The Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park offers a plethora of scenic hiking trails for all levels – suspended between the verdant forests and turquoise triumph of Tyrrhenian Sea, the paths of Cilento are perfect to be explored with a self-guided walking trip: we have created one that connects the most enchanting itineraries in the region, from the sea of Sapri to the Medieval hilltop town of Pisciotta.
The stunning Sardinian coast is renowned for the glamorous lifestyle of the Costa Smeralda, where celebrities and tourists spend their summers in clubs and upscale beachside resorts. Yet, the lesser-known South-Western part of the island, also known as Costa Verde or the Green Coast, is a hidden gem for hikers looking to discover the authentic and active side of the region. This tour includes some of the finest hikes in the Sulcis peninsula, taking you to the islands of San Pietro (a Ligurian enclave in Sardinia, where you can hear Ligurian dialect and savor Genoa's typical food) and Sant'Antioco, home to pink flamingoes.
The area is also renowned for its industrial archaeology, as it used to be one of Italy's busiest mining sites. This makes it an intriguing place to explore, offering a captivating blend of sea and land. Dive into the crystal-clear waters or venture underground to visit the historic mines, still open to the public to preserve the cultural heritage of this part of the island.
Our Trip on Sardinia's Green Coast
This walking tour in beautiful Provence is a delightful mix of everything you might imagine when picturing this enchanting part of France. You'll encounter majestic abbeys nestled amidst lavender fields, charming castles, picturesque windmills, and country houses transformed into comfortable hotels. But this journey also unveils another facet of this idyllic region—a wilder side, characterized by dramatic gorges, jagged cliffs, rocky outcroppings, and underground streams emerging into stunning azure pools right in the heart of the village. It's a one-week walk immersed in the pure beauty of France.
If you're intrigued by one of the most enigmatic civilizations in history, the captivating Etruscans, known for their flourishing agricultural and commercial society, artistic achievements, as well as their distinctive funeral customs and divination practices, then this itinerary is for you. The territory you'll traverse was once their homeland and is one of the most exquisite parts of the region.
You'll journey through hilltop villages perched on rocky outcroppings, meander amidst olive groves, vineyards, and fig trees, follow ancient Roman roads and Etruscan sunken pathways, and immerse yourself in the lunar landscape of the Val d'Orcia hills, painted with mesmerizing hues. You'll also explore the charming city of Pienza, visit Montepulciano and its renowned wineries, and discover the underground city of Chiusi, which legend says was home to an Etruscan king and his 5,000 golden chicks.
Situated in the lesser-known and captivating northern part of Latium, this itinerary, just a few hours from Rome, is gaining popularity due to its rich history, the enchanting landscapes straight out of a fairy tale, unspoiled nature, and exquisite gastronomy. The unique attributes of this ancient road, constructed in the 4th century BC, with its passage across Roman bridges, carved cliffs, and natural wonders, mark it as one of the early achievements of Roman expansionism.
Ancient necropolises, organic agritourism experiences, charming cities perched atop rocky outcroppings amidst wild valleys, and a landscape brimming with allure and mystery await you on this unforgettable journey, and so much more.
This adventure is all about immersing yourself in the largest island of the mystical Azores - São Miguel. Many would describe São Miguel as a paradise, and it's undeniably one of Europe's best-preserved gems for diverse and exhilarating hiking experiences.
You'll journey through fragrant forests filled with aromatic trees and vast pastures where contented cows graze. You'll explore Mediterranean scrublands, scale majestic mountains, and visit tea and pineapple plantations that dot the landscape. All of this is enveloped by the distinctive volcanic allure that defines the Azores.
In São Miguel, you'll encounter thermal pools nestled within the craters of dormant volcanoes, trek through lush tropical forests, and lose yourself in the enchanting tranquility of fairy-tale woods. You'll discover crystal-clear springs, and marvel at the beauty of calderas, showcasing a nature that is simultaneously primal and breathtaking.
Camino Sanabres: Ourense to Santiago
If you're yearning to embark on a journey along the most renowned Camino in the world, but prefer to savor the tranquility away from the bustling crowds, then the Camino Sanabres is the ultimate choice for you. This hidden gem seamlessly connects the southern landscapes of Spain to the untamed beauty of Galicia, remaining comfortably off the well-trodden tourist path. In fact, a mere 4% of all pilgrims opt for this particular section of the Camino, making it a unique and enchanting pilgrimage.
Picture an enchanting adventure that commences in the picturesque spa town of Ourense, celebrated for its rejuvenating natural springs. From there, your path unfolds through a breathtaking panorama adorned with Romanesque abbeys, luxuriant forests, serene monasteries, and sprawling vineyards. (By the way, the wines of Ribeira Sacra rank among the finest in the country.) Your route will take you through idyllic rural hamlets and introduce you to the austere beauty of Cistercian monasteries. This journey is not just a walk; it's an exploration of history, nature, and the soul.
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Nominee Best Specialist Tour Operator 2023
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