Artistic Umbria
A journey through history, art and countryside in Umbria, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Italy.
Call us on 01707 537290
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Call us on 01707 537290
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Explore the serene beauty of Greece with a journey that takes you from the enchanting Sithonia peninsula in Halkidiki, a nature lover's paradise surrounded by pine forests, olive groves, and golden beaches, to the welcoming haven of Macedonia in Greece's northern region. Discover tranquil coastal towns, uncrowded beaches, and the quintessential Greek hospitality.
Halkidiki
Coast & Islands
Landscape
May
Sep
Average group size: 12-14
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
The first week of this holiday involves Grade 4 moderate walking with walks over hilly terrain, along both broad tracks and narrow paths and offering wonderful views. Our walks average between 5 miles-8 miles and may well end with a beach stop for a dip, or calling in a taverna for a well earned drink. Actual walking time will generally not exceed 5 hours with ascents/descents between 200m-500m. The maximum altitude reached on this holiday is approx. 360m
From Olympiada, the walking programme at Grade 4/SS includes walks at a moderate pace over hilly terrain and includes an element of sightseeing days as well. Our full-day walks are 8 to 10 miles, with ascents and descents up to 350m. (I haven't get WB with me so can't check figure) Sightseeing days include exploring archaeological sites on foot, usually with opportunities of walks up to 5 miles. The maximum altitude reached on this holiday is approx. 850m
Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.
Overview
This holiday is a combination of our one week holiday Olympiada, and our one week holiday Unspoilt Greece
Greece’s verdant peninsula of Sithonia, in Halkidiki, appeals to nature lovers and visitors seeking a quieter holiday. Pine and oak forests, olive groves, fruit trees and vineyards give way to golden beaches, azure seas, picturesque harbours and fishing hamlets. In between you’ll find traditional villages, characteristic stone architecture, and tranquil churches. Add to this the delightful local cuisine and wines, the genuine Greek hospitality, and you have all the elements of a really great holiday.
During your first week you are based at the lovely Athena Pallas Village, which offers superior accommodation and facilities, amidst the backdrop of pine and oak forests, olive groves and vineyards, you'll discover crystal-clear azure seas, quaint harbours, and charming fishing villages. Our meticulously crafted walks guide you along scenic woodland trails, rustic country paths, and idyllic coastal routes. On the Kassandra peninsula, renowned for its rich flora and fauna, you'll relish breath taking panoramas of the coastline and, on clear days, the distant silhouette of Mount Athos. Once-deserted hillside villages now teem with life, and during spring, the hills burst into a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers, fragrant wild strawberries, and aromatic herbs. Keep an eye out for the occasional sighting of wild tortoises and the enchanting melody of nightingales. We pause in charming mountain hamlets to savour their distinctive stone architecture, visit serene churches, leisurely stroll along tranquil beaches, and savour delectable lunches at the waterfront tavernas we encounter along our path.
For our second week, reece’s most northern region of Macedonia, which borders the Balkans, is an absolute delight. Explore Greece's hidden gem, Macedonia, where nature serenades you with the melodious rhythm of Varvara waterfall, cascading through ancient rock formations. Macedonia, Greece's northern sanctuary, offers a quintessential Greek experience with tranquil coastal towns, secluded beaches, and the warmth of Greek hospitality. Immerse yourself in picturesque countryside walks, wandering through pristine woodlands of pine, fir, and chestnut trees, along forest tracks and breath taking coastal trails. Begin your adventure in the peaceful seaside town of Olympiada, where you'll follow a captivating section of the 19-mile Aristotle Trail and explore the lush Marmari peninsula. Bordering the World Heritage Site of Mount Athos, Ouranoupoli beckons with the option of a cruise to witness the awe-inspiring hanging monasteries and enjoy a local hiking experience. As a bonus, explore the ancient city of Amphipolis, which dates back to the 5th century BC and boasts a recently unearthed tomb, believed to be connected to Alexander the Great's family. Culinary delights await in this Greek paradise, where you'll savour some of the most exquisite dishes. Breakfasts feature homemade delicacies, while dinners are served at charming seafront tavernas in the town. The hotel's owner and chef, Loulou, even offers a captivating Greek cookery demonstration.
Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.
NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen
15170
Explore the captivating charm of Greece's island-hopping, where quaint harbors come to life with daily ferry arrivals, welcoming both new visitors and essential supplies. Amidst the tranquil countryside, the sound of goat bells mingles with the sight of farmers tending to their bountiful fields, making the Ionian islands a hidden treasure along Greece's verdant western coast, offering a rich cultural heritage and miles of enchanting walking trails for a memorable getaway in any season.
Nestled in Greece's northern region, Macedonia offers an idyllic haven of tranquillity, featuring serene coastal towns, unspoiled beaches, and the authentic warmth of Greek hospitality. Explore Greece's welcoming side in Macedonia.
The picturesque walking paths in Kythira wind their way through lush meadows, alongside historic water mills, and scenic coastal routes, drawing in a fresh wave of travellers who seek captivating natural beauty and historic charm.
Discover Greece's enchanting Sithonia peninsula in Halkidiki—a nature lover's haven and an oasis of tranquillity. Amidst the backdrop of pine and oak forests, lush olive groves, thriving vineyards, azure seas, and charming fishing villages.
Itinerary & Travel
Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.
Accommodation
Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.
The family owned, superior category Athena Pallas Village is located directly on the coast at Elias Beach on the Sithonia peninsula. The extensive grounds have a village feel, where there are restaurants, a shop, four swimming pools, health club & spa (charges apply), tennis courts, bar, and even a folklore museum. The owner of the hotel used to build churches before he constructed the hotel and there are two small churches on the hotel grounds.
There is access to the quiet beach (down steps) which connects to a sister hotel, which has a beach bar. There is free Wi-Fi connection in the hotel and we are allocated the news renovated superior rooms which are en suite, have a hairdryer, TV, safe, climate control, mini-bar, telephone, and a balcony with chairs and table.
The family run Hotel Liotopi offers a warm and intimate welcome to guests, and is in keeping with its boutique size of 16 rooms in total. Close to the beach in Olympiada it is a stone’s throw from shops, cafes and restaurants. The hotel prides itself on its homemade breakfast, which is taken outside in the charming garden in good weather.
Rooms are uniquely decorated and are ensuite with a/c, fridge, TV and a hairdryer. All rooms have a balcony with either sea or mountain view. Free Wi-Fi is offered to guests. Breakfasts and taverna dinners are included in the holiday charge.
Trip Information
The first week of this holiday involves Grade 4 moderate walking with walks over hilly terrain, along both broad tracks and narrow paths and offering wonderful views. Our walks average between 5 miles-8 miles and may well end with a beach stop for a dip, or calling in a taverna for a well earned drink. Actual walking time will generally not exceed 5 hours with ascents/descents between 200m-500m. The maximum altitude reached on this holiday is approx. 360m
From Olympiada, the walking programme at Grade 4/SS includes walks at a moderate pace over hilly terrain and includes an element of sightseeing days as well. Our full-day walks are 8 to 10 miles, with ascents and descents up to 350m. (I haven't get WB with me so can't check figure) Sightseeing days include exploring archaeological sites on foot, usually with opportunities of walks up to 5 miles. The maximum altitude reached on this holiday is approx. 850m
This holiday is a two-week combination of our Unspoilt Greece holiday, based on the Sithonia peninsula and our Olympiada holiday, based in the northern region of the Mount Athos peninsula. The two centres are very different, as are the hotels, dining arrangements and walking programme. For both weeks we will use coastal trails, forest paths, mule tracks and quiet roads. We proceed at a leisurely pace sometimes making use of the tavernas in the local villages for refreshments stops or lunch. Some of the walks are at the top of the grade, with ascents and descents of 300-400m, though rarely steep.
While at our first centre, our programme is made up of grade 4 walks. One walk is directly from our hotel, other walks we use local transport. There will be a little sightseeing as part of our walks, and there will be a free day for you to explore on our own, perhaps take a local excursion or relax at the hotel. One of the excursions you will see available is a cruise to Mount Athos, or Holy Mountain, which can be seen from the eastern side of Sithonia. The peninsula has approx. 20 inhabited monasteries and 1,700 monks, and while it cannot be visited without a permit, you can take a cruise to take along the coastline, which offers close up views. This cruise is also offered during your second week as part of a day's visit, so you may prefer to wait until the 2nd week to do this.
Our second centre, Olympiada, is a small, quiet seaside town with a couple of hotels, beachfront tavernas and a handful of cafes and shops. The hotel is in contrast to Athena Pallas Village and has just 16 rooms. Our programme here is graded 4/SS, which means there will be more sightseeing during our walks and we have two days which are primarily sightseeing days. This week focuses on Greek culture, history and lifestyle.
Local Transport Costs
In the holiday cost, we've included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.
Optional Excursions
At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.
Holiday Budgeting
As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.
The currency in Greece is the euro.
There are ATM machines at Thessaloniki Airport, banks with ATM facilities in the villages of Nikiti and Neos Marmaras, near to our hotel and credit cards are accepted at the hotel. The Athena Pallas also has an ATM in the hotel lobby.
Tipping
In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.
Tour Leaders
Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations. Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.
Leader's Evening Briefing
Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.
Booking Your Own Travel Arrangements
If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.
Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.
If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.
Although airport transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport, depending on your flight arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.
Please be aware that your flight must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.
Hotel Transfers
When you book a Flight-Inclusive holiday, transfers between the airport and hotel and back are included. On some holidays, where we offer various flight options, the transfer vehicle may wait for all flights to land before transferring to the hotel.
Luggage Allowance & Travel Documents
If you're booking a flight or rail inclusive holiday, rest assured that details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.
Personal Details Check
To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.
Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.
You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.
European Passport Advice
If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must meet the Schengen area rules.
Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:
For some Schengen countries your passport may need to be less than 10 years old during your whole visit, and the 3 months at the end of your visit may need to be within 10 years of your passport’s issue date.
Check both the issue date and the expiry date in your passport. If you renewed your passport early, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. This could affect the requirement for your passport to be less than 10 years old.
Non British Passport holders should consult the host country’s embassy for applicable passport and visa entry requirements.
During the holiday, breakfasts and dinners are included. At our first centre, dinners are taken at a mix of local tavernas and the hotel. Lunches that are not included in the holiday cost and can be bought from the hotel, a local mini market or may be at a local taverna. When at Olympiada, our 2nd centre, we will eat dinner at a seafront taverna, a short distance from our hotel.
Footwear
Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.
General Kit List
Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.
If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:
This list is not exhaustive and every walker is different and may have their own preference.
Travel Documents Checklist
Documents and Information to take with you:
Electricity in Greece
Electricity in Greece is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/
Water To Go
Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.
Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.
As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.
Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday departing after November 1, 2023, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!
Maps, Guidebooks & More
Books
Rough Guide to Greece – Rough Guide Publications
Lonely Planet Greece – Lonely Planet Publications
Websites
Greek National Tourist Office www.gnto.gr
Visit Greece www.visitgreece.com
Hakidiki www.halkidiki.com
Sithonia www.sithoniagreece.com
Mount Athos Area www.mountathosarea.org
The Map Shop
If you cannot find the maps or books locally we recommend:
The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England
Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com
If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.
Weather
Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:
Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
Health Advice for Greece
No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Greece.
You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK.
You may also wish to consider immunisations against Tetanus and Tick-borne Encephalitis.
There is a low to no risk of malaria in Greece. Malaria risk is from May to October and is very limited; confined to the villages of the Evrotas delta area in Lakonia district. Please seek advice from your doctor or travel clinic.
Further Travel Advice
For further advice please visit:
You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.
It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.
The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.
Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.
In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.
If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.
Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.
If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.
EHIC & GHIC Cards
Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.
It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.
For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.
When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!
Responsible Travel
We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust
Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.
The primary focus of our Trust's financial support is directed towards Britain's premier walking charity, The Ramblers. They play a crucial role in advocating the benefits and significance of walking to the British public. Additionally, our Trust invites applications for small grants from local organizations in the UK that require support for walking-oriented activities. This encompasses initiatives such as establishing footpaths and bridleways, funding for the reconstruction of bridges and refurbishing huts, and bursary funding for organisations that support individuals to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors..
For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.
Heart and Sole
We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.
Mobile Phones
Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.
Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.
In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or make an effort to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.
Reviews
Useful Information
Capital
Currency
Language
Time Difference
Flight duration
Visas and Passports
January
Avg. Rain: 91mm
February
Avg. Rain: 78mm
March
Avg. Rain: 65mm
April
Avg. Rain: 43mm
May
Avg. Rain: 29mm
June
Avg. Rain: 15mm
July
Avg. Rain: 10mm
August
Avg. Rain: 11mm
September
Avg. Rain: 28mm
October
Avg. Rain: 71mm
November
Avg. Rain: 94mm
December
Avg. Rain: 106mm
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