Our answers to your Frequently Asked Questions

What does Sloways offer?
Sloways specializes in walking holidays along the great trails, caminos, and best itineraries across Italy and Europe. Our mission is to help as many people as possible discover the joys of slow travel. We believe that a walking holiday is the best way to truly connect with the essence of a place, giving yourself and your companions the gift of time. With each step, your awareness grows as you admire stunning landscapes, create lasting memories, and break free from the routine of everyday life. Once you’ve experienced a walking holiday, it's hard to settle for any other kind!

What’s a self-guided trip?
Self-guided trips allow you to explore independently, without a guide or group, yet still supported by a tour operator. You can pick your departure date, route, and travel companions, and we handle the rest—from booking hotels to providing detailed documentation, transferring your luggage, and offering support whenever needed. This travel style offers more flexibility than group tours, ensuring peace of mind with the backing of a travel professional. To learn more, read this article!

Will I get lost?
Our personalized app makes getting lost nearly impossible. Available to all our travelers, this app allows you to download your personalized itinerary via a QR code and use it offline. Just like any navigation system (think Google Maps), you’ll always know you're on the right track.

How can I choose the perfect trip?
With countless beautiful walking routes available, choosing can be daunting. Our website helps you filter trips by specific criteria, such as the scenery (coastal or mountainous), UNESCO heritage sites, and more. Each trip page includes a “Is This for Me?” section that provides further insights to consider, like your fitness level. We offer a classification system for trip difficulty based on distance and elevation gain. For personalized assistance, simply call or email us—we’re here to help you find your ideal holiday!

Can I request changes to the itinerary?
Yes, if you have specific requests for changes to the proposed itinerary (such as an additional night, more included meals, or adding a guided tour), we are happy to accommodate you. Some trips are more adaptable than others, but just ask us about the particular journey you're interested in, and we can immediately tell you how much we can tailor it to your needs. If you desire a journey crafted specifically for you, we can design a custom-made trip that fits like a tailor-made suit, created just for your desires and requirements!

Why should I book with a tour operator and not plan on my own? 

We've created a blog post to answer this question in as much detail as possible, especially regarding walking tours. In summary, booking with a tour operator means freeing yourself from all travel logistics concerns. You'll have an expert who recommends the perfect itinerary, answers any questions you may have, and supports you throughout your journey should any issues arise. Your only job is to walk and enjoy every step.

What kind of accommodations do you use?
Our travelers stay in 3-star hotels, bed and breakfasts, and agriturismi, all offering private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. We select accommodations for their character and comfort to ensure you have a restful night after a day’s walk. Please check the specific trip page as some, like our mountain treks, may involve nights in shared rooms or facilities.

What’s a Camino?
Great question! We’ve written a detailed article explaining what sets a Camino apart from a regular walking itinerary. You’ll find it here!

Do I need to be really fit?
We offer trips for all fitness levels, but it’s crucial to be honest with yourself about your physical condition. Our trips range from light to challenging, but the difficulty may be influenced by factors like weather and terrain,as detailed here. If you’re unsure, starting with an easier or shorter trip can be a good test. And remember, we’re just a call away to help you choose the right adventure.

How can I book?
All the details about our booking process can be found here, giving you an overview of what to expect once you’ve chosen your trip. You can also create a provisional quote on our website to get a clearer idea of costs for your preferred dates. A new blog about the booking process is coming soon, but in the meantime, feel free to contact us with any questions.

How does the included luggage transfer work?
It’s simple: leave your luggage in a designated area of your accommodation before you set out each day, and we’ll have it transported to your next stop. This allows you to hike with just a daypack, making your journey lighter and more enjoyable. While luggage transfer is included in most trips, please verify as some mountain treks do not offer this service.

Will anyone speak English, should I need help?
In popular tourist areas and along major caminos like the Via Francigena, you’ll easily find English speakers accustomed to international travelers. In less-traveled areas, knowing a few key phrases or using an online translator can be helpful. Of course, we’re just a phone call away if you need assistance.

I’m passionate about sustainability. Are you?
Absolutely! We’ve had our sustainability efforts certified by Travelife, a company specializing in tourism sector sustainability. Our website features a dedicated section where you can learn about the concrete actions we’ve implemented and our future goals to enhance our sustainability practices.