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Walking Under Mount Etna

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is richly diverse, steeped in history with many sights and experiences not to be missed.

  • Sicily

  • 7 nights
  • Breakfast, 1 street lunch & dinners taken in a mix of local restaurants and the hotel.
  • Mountains

    Landscape

  • May

    Sep

    Oct

Challenging

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Walking grade

Grade 6

This is a Grade 6 walking holiday with challenging walks through beautiful scenery set against the stunning back drop of Mount Etna. Expect to walk on mountain paths, farm tracks, through ancient villages and lovely rural scenery. Walks will be full days with ascents and descents of 450-1000m. We will be walking between 8-12 miles a day. The hotels superb location allows us to explore remote paths, and sometimes we can walk to the start of the trail from our hotel! We will use local hired transport where required to enjoy our varied walking programme. The maximum altitude reached on this holiday is 2055m.

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Classic Collection

Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • View Mount Etna with a glass of wine at a traditional Vineyard.
  • Enjoy a traditional street food lunch with delicious delicacies.
  • Capture Mount Etna up close during your unique excursion.
  • Explore the Alcantara Gorge, a rocky landscape formed by cool crystallised lava from Mount Etna.
  • Enjoy the spring flowers or autumn fruits that line your walks.
  • Walk alongside fields and mountains, through villages and along peaceful paths.

On the same latitude as part of the North African coast and tempered by sea breezes, Sicily is the largest of the Mediterranean Islands and is steeped in history having been home to Greek, Roman, Arab and Norman civilisations. As Goethe said, “To have seen Italy without having seen Sicily is to not have seen Italy at all, for Sicily is the clue to everything.”

You will be based in Castiglione di Sicilia, a small Sicilian town nestled in a valley between Etna and the Alcantara Park. It’s a picturesque town with small houses and historical buildings perched upon a hill on the north side of Etna. Follow its winding streets and you'll discover Italian architecture and a central square made from lava stone. Its castles and churches make for an impressive backdrop against Etna. As a centre it offers some of the finest walking to be had. The ever-present outline of Mount Etna frames many of your walks. 

The holiday includes a varied walking programme, the walks take in fields and mountains, ancient tracks and villages, hilltop castles and peaceful paths. An impressive trail takes us down from Mount Venere, where you can capture panoramic views of the Dalmatian Coast and across the Alps, to the characterful town of Taormina. Its temptations of some cold refreshments, ice cream and sea views will put a spring in your step. Explore the magical Alcantara gorge, formed by cool crystallised lava from Mount Etna. 

Take a special excursion to Mount Etna. As the volcano is still active, you can never predict an exact programme but the higher you reach, the more spectacular the views across the island and to the Italian mainland across the straights of Messina.

  • Return flights from London to Catania.
  • Airport transfers.
  • En suite three-star accommodation on bed and breakfast basis.
  • Half board with dinners taken in the hotel restaurant and in local restaurants .
  • One street food lunch.
  • All local transport required for the itinerary by private coach/public bus.
  • A walk on the upper slopes of Mount Etna.
  • Services of a Classic Tour Leader.
  • Entrance fees (unless otherwise specified)
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions
  • Travel Insurance

Holiday Information

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

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

17700

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

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.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Sicily

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

As you prepare to touch down at Catania Airport, be sure to gaze out the window in anticipation of the breath-taking vistas of Mount Etna. After landing, your journey continues with a private coach ride, guiding you along the awe-inspiring coastline to the north, and then leading you inland toward the charming destination of Castiglione di Sicilia.

Transfer Time = 1h 30m

Day 2

Castiglione and Francavilla

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

The itinerary is expected to follow the daily schedule outlined below but please bear in mind that the order of the days may be amended, or walks substituted, due to weather conditions, attraction opening times, public transport timetables or changes beyond our control.

  • Time

    4 hours

  • Distance

    8 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    450m

Walk up to Francavilla, situated inland from the east coast above the resort town of Taormina with the ever present outline of Mount Etna. This walk is an excellent introduction to the rich history of the area: from the settlement of ancient Sicilian tribes and the Ancient Greeks, through Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Norman, German, French and Spanish conquests, through the Second World War and to the Allied landings of 1943. The route offers castles, orchards of citrus and exotic fruits such as prickly pears, pomegranate, medlars and Sharon fruit (in season). Explore the winding back-valleys of ancient hill-towns and enjoy panoramic views of Etna.

Day 3

Monte Venere, Castelmola and Taormina

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    4 hours

  • Distance

    8 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    495/845m

Begin by taking transport to the starting point, where you'll be greeted by awe-inspiring views of Mount Etna. From here, ascend to the expansive summit of Monte Venere, which offers breathtaking panoramic views across the Dalmatian Coast and, on clear days, all the way to the majestic Alps.

Afterward, make your way down to the fortified village of Castelmola, a charming and picturesque village nestled high atop a hill, commanding stunning views of the azure sea. Continue your descent to the captivating town of Taormina, a place bursting with vibrant colors and beautifully situated on the slopes of a mountain, setting the stage for a memorable experience.

Day 4

Alcantara Gorge, Monte Zia and Motta Camstra

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Alcantara Gorge

The beautiful Alcantara Gorge and the surrounding Alcantara Valley is home to the most extensive list of living species in the Mediterranean.

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    9 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    735m

Start the day with a glorious ridge walk, tracing well-maintained tracks and paths that offer awe-inspiring views of Mount Etna. As you continue, descend along the winding tracks, leading you to the valley where you'll encounter a truly unique sight: the mesmerizing Alcantara Gorge. This distinctive landscape, characterized by towering 50m high rocky walls, was sculpted by the solidified lava from Mount Etna.

Wrap up your day by following a serene lane that winds its way to the base of the castle hill in Francavilla, ultimately guiding you to the charming destination of Castiglione di Sicilia.

Day 5

Free day

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

This is a free day for your own independent exploration. There are so many walking options to be considered, or maybe immerse yourself in culture by visiting a town. 

Explore the impressive Selinunte temples, one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe, or discover the UNESCO World Heritage Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. Perhaps take a trip to Syracuse or Palermo.

Sicily is well known for its gastronomy, so why not explore the area more and try some culinary delights and traditional delicacies such as Pastieri (minced lamb and pastry, seasoned with pepper, cheese and eggs), Sacce (thin flour pasta leaves stuffed with spinach and ricotta) or try Caciocavallo (cows milk cheese). Don't forget to find the many bakeries with delicious cakes or gelato parlour! 

Day 6

Castiglione to Mitogio

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5.5 hours

  • Distance

    12 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    800/1000m

Explore a series of remote villages, forsaken after a failed experiment in the 1950s. Anticipate magnificent vistas of Mount Etna, extended stretches along both grassy and rocky ridges, and a meandering descent that eventually leads you to the postcard-perfect village of Castiglione di Sicilia.


 

Day 7

Mount Etna

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

Mount Etna

Mount Etna is one of the world's most active volcanoes and is the highest active volcano in Europe, standing at over 3,300 metres above sea level. 

Today marks the day for an unforgettable stroll along the slopes of the ever-active Mount Etna. Given its volcanic nature, the plan must always factor in its dynamic character. Begin by delving into the dormant side crater known as Monte Nero, where you can expand your understanding of volcanology while relishing panoramic vistas. Keep in mind that your trek will take you to higher altitudes, and those visiting in the spring might encounter snow, so it's essential to come well-prepared, especially since the upper slopes can be quite chilly year-round.

Following your thrilling exploration of Etna, the afternoon unfolds as a leisurely interlude, where you can recline and savor panoramic views of the majestic Mount Etna while indulging in the delightful flavors of local wines at a nearby vineyard. It promises to be a memorable day, enriched by the spectacular mountain panoramas.

Day 8

Final day

Meals

Breakfast

Say goodbye to Sicily and transfer to Catania Airport for your return flight back to the UK.

Sometimes your flight schedule allows for free time and a short stroll to explore the area once more or some time in Catania.

Departure dates for your selected tour

17th May 2024 - 24th May 2024 (7 Nights)

6th Sep 2024 - 13th Sep 2024 (7 Nights)

11th Oct 2024 - 18th Oct 2024 (7 Nights)

Travel Details

  • Return flights from London to Catania
  • Airport transfers by road c.1hr.30mins
  • We can offer regional flight options but due to the location and travelling time to our resort we operate just one transfer coach between the airport and our hotel to coincide with our main group. This may mean that there is a wait at the overseas airport in one or both directions
  • Upgrades are available on most flights. For scheduled flights this may be Premium Economy, Business or First Class. Most low-cost carriers also have extra legroom seats.
  • If direct regional flights are not available, we can often offer add-on flights to a London airport at a competitive rate. Please ask us for details and a competitive quote.

Accommodation

Accommodation information

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.

Hotel Federico II

Castiglione di Sicilia is a small Sicilian town nestled in a valley between Etna and the Alcantara Park. Its a picturesque town with small houses and historical buildings perched upon a hill on the north side of Etna. Follow its winding streets and you'll discover Italian architecture and a central square made from lava stone. Its castles and churches make for an impressive backdrop against Etna. The town is filled with restaurants, cafes, shops, and supermarkets. There are also banks, ATMs, a post office, tourist office and bus/train stations in the town.

We stay in the small family owned Hotel Federico II located in the heart of the town. This recently renovated little and intimate hotel is set in a 14th century building. It's simple and chosen for its perfect location for our walking itinerary. It allows us to explore remote walking paths and the hotels back drop is the magnificent Mount Etna.

We stay in double and twin bedded rooms. Single rooms are usually double for sole use. Hotel rooms are either in the main building, the Hotel Federico II, or the small building next door called Le Vie del Borgo next door. Both hotels are run by the same family. All rooms are comfortable and minimalistic. Facilities include

  • Ensuite with shower
  • Hairdryer
  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Minibar
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Safe
  • WIFI

There are no tea/coffee making facilities in rooms.

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

This is a Grade 6 walking holiday with challenging walks through beautiful scenery set against the stunning back drop of Mount Etna. Expect to walk on mountain paths, farm tracks, through ancient villages and lovely rural scenery. Walks will be full days with ascents and descents of 450-1000m. We will be walking between 8-12 miles a day. The hotels superb location allows us to explore remote paths, and sometimes we can walk to the start of the trail from our hotel! We will use local hired transport where required to enjoy our varied walking programme. The maximum altitude reached on this holiday is 2055m.

Walks & Excursions

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.

Spending Money

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.

Currency in Italy

The currency in Italy is the Euro.

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 & Local Guides

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.

Your Travel Details

Fly from London to Catania and return. On some dates we offer regional flight options but due to the location and travelling time to your resort, we operate just one transfer coach between the airport and your hotel to coincide with the main group. This may mean that there is a wait at the overseas airport in one or both directions. 

A private transfer takes you to your hotel, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by road. Details of your baggage allowance will be confirmed in your travel documents, sent to you approximately 10 days before departure.  

If you intend joining and leaving the party in Castiglione di Sicilia, we assume, unless you have advised us otherwise, that you will meet and leave the party at the Hotel Federico II . If this is not your intention, please let us know in writing at least 5 weeks before departure. 

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.

Passports and Visas

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:

  • less than 10 years old on the day you enter (check the ‘date of issue’)
  • valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

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.

Meals

Breakfasts and dinners are included in the holiday. Breakfast is a continental buffet style with a selection such as cereal, cold meats, tomatoes, cheeses, fruits, rolls and jams. 

Some dinners are taken in the hotels restaurant, the Sine Tempore. You will be served a three course traditional Sicilian dinner made from locally sourced produce and fresh ingredients, with usually a choice of fish or meat dishes. Vegetarian diets can also be catered for. During the summer, the outdoor garden and courtyard area is opened for dinner too. The restaurant is also open to local residents and other tourists.

Two dinners are taken in local restaurants, giving you the opportunity to sample the Italian cuisine and local wines. You'll enjoy an authentic experience and sometimes lively atmosphere in a traditional Italian restaurant along with local diners and the Italian hospitality.  

In Italy, traditional meals may include primo, il secondo, and dolce, depending on the individual restaurant. Primo can be served as an appetiser and usually consists of rich pasta, soup or risotto. The main course is called il secondo and usually includes meat, fish or vegetarian. The dolce refers to the dessert and ends a traditional Italian meal. 

One lunch is included during our time in Motta Camastra where an impressive street lunch will be provided. Remaining lunches are not included and are usually taken as picnics or in a local cafe during the day. 

Please note: For later flight arrivals, dinner on arrival at the hotel will be a light meal consisting of items such as salad or cold meats. 

Footwear & Kit List

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:

  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Lightweight quick-drying trousers
  • Walking T-shirt/shirts
  • Walking socks
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
  • Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
  • Swimwear (if appropriate)
  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
  • Day sack liner
  • Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity (more than 1 bottle may be required)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)
  • Sit mat

This list is not exhaustive and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

Some paths are sometimes affected by the growth of large bushes and brambles in the Spring and Summer months so it may be advisable to bring walking trousers as shorts may not be advisable at this time. 

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Passport (make sure it's yours and valid)
  • Your travel tickets or e-ticket itinerary
  • Any visa or electronic travel authorisation (if required)
  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Your holiday Booking Confirmation document
  • Your travel insurance details
  • Alternative form of identification (such as a driving licence)
  • Photocopy of the personal details pages of your passport
  • A valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if relevant
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Electricity in Italy

Electricity in Italy 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 RWW15 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 & Other Information

Maps, Guidebooks & More

Many local libraries stock a selection of travel guides and books which may offer you more information. Apart from any books available in local libraries, the internet is now an excellent resource for information about holidays in Sicily. You may find the below websites, books and programmes useful. 

Maps of the areas we visit (1:200 000 scale) are available locally and at specialist map shops in the UK. 

Visit Sicily 

In literature and film Sicily is closely associated with The Godfather books and films. Various locations in the area of Francavilla were used in the filming of the original Godfather film.

Lonely Planet Sicily Travel Guide. 

The Rough Guide to Sicily.

Sicily: The Wonder of the Mediterranean on BBC2 player. Follow Michael Scott on his historical journey through Sicily.

Gino D'Acampo visits Sicily on Gino's Italian Escapes, available on ITV player.  

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:

Staying Healthy On Holiday

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 Italy

No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Italy.

You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK. 

You may wish to consider immunisations against Tetanus and Tick-borne Encephalitis.

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.

Travel Insurance

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

Personal Safety

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!

Cultural Awareness

Italian Laws & Customs

In some Italian towns and cities you may be fined for dropping litter and in some towns or cities it’s an offence to sit on monument steps or to eat and drink in the immediate vicinity of main churches, historic monuments and public buildings. It’s also an offence to enter or bathe in public fountains.

In May 2019, the Municipality of Capri introduced a law forbidding the use of any disposable plastic objects such as bags, cutlery, plates, cups, food packaging, trays, straws on the island of Capri. Violations can incur a fine of up to 500 euros.

Illegal traders operate on the streets of all major Italian cities, particularly tourist cities like Florence, Venice and Rome. Don’t buy from illegal street traders. You could be stopped by the local police and fined.

It is illegal to remove sand, shells or pebbles from coastal areas in Italy. Doing so may result in heavy fines. It’s also forbidden to collect various species of flowers, plants and herbs from mountain and wooded areas. For more information, check with the regional authorities of the area you’re visiting.

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.

Staying In Touch

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.

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Useful Information

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Italy

  • Capital

    Rome

  • Currency

    Euro

  • Language

    Italian

  • Time Difference

    UTC +02:00

  • Flight duration

    2.5hrs from UK

Visas and Passports

No Visa Required

Average weather

  • January

    6°C

    Avg. Rain: 67mm

  • February

    7°C

    Avg. Rain: 62mm

  • March

    9°C

    Avg. Rain: 63mm

  • April

    12°C

    Avg. Rain: 61mm

  • May

    16°C

    Avg. Rain: 56mm

  • June

    20°C

    Avg. Rain: 47mm

  • July

    22°C

    Avg. Rain: 35mm

  • August

    22°C

    Avg. Rain: 48mm

  • September

    20°C

    Avg. Rain: 64mm

  • October

    15°C

    Avg. Rain: 89mm

  • November

    10°C

    Avg. Rain: 96mm

  • December

    7°C

    Avg. Rain: 82mm

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