Thompson

Louise Halfpenny 

Jean Follet Thompson 

Dear Friends and Fellow Walkers 

Iam delighted to bring you our 

programme of Walks for 2016. 

We believe that slow travel is the best way to 

see the world, be it in the heady air amid 

towering mountains, striding out along pristine 

sandy beaches, or strolling through dappled 

woods and along sleepy country lanes. 

More than three decades have passed since we 

started The Wayfarers and now, more than ever 

before, I am firmly of the opinion that the benefits 

of seeing a country close-up, on foot and 

supporting local artisans and independent businesses in the process, is 

the way to have a vacation that is a truly enriching experience. 

And of course, it’s enormous fun too! That’s due in no small part to our 

“secret ingredient”, our team of Walk Leaders and Managers. Their expert 

local knowledge ensures we meet local characters and enjoy a host of 

memorable experiences along the trail. 

And after the day’s hike ends? We stay in characterful but comfortable 

inns and hotels that reflect the traditions of the area. We eat delicious 

meals made with care and sample local specialties. Across the dinner 

table and along the trail we forge new friendships and renew old ones. 

Our aim is to give you the best hiking vacation ever and once we meet up 

at our rendezvous point, we take care of everything, so all there is to do is 

enjoy the trail. 

I am very excited about our new Walks for 2016. We take you to the Outer 

Hebrides, the remote islands off the west of Scotland. Extraordinarily beautiful, 

life there has changed little in generations. 

In the southwest of England we visit picturesque North Cornwall, long 

famed for Tintagel, King Arthur’s birthplace, and, more recently, the filming 

locations for Doc Martin and Poldark. 

And, yes, I am biased, because it is where Betsy and I live, but our Walk “far 

from the madding crowd” in Dorset is a rare treat. We discover villages 

little changed in centuries and a stunning coastline showing off millions of 

years of history. 

We have a wonderful and exhilarating new take on England’s Lake District, 

and a fantastic sojourn in the lush land of Burgundy, tracing the story of 

some of the finest French wines. 

Our Private Walks allow you and a group of friends or family to enjoy an 

exclusive brochure Walk, or we can provide an itinerary tailor-made for 

you. Just contact us to find out more. 

Do take a look at our first Wayfarers Travel Collection. We have put 

together a selection of special-interest vacations we know you’ll love and 

which we can personally recommend. 

I hope you enjoy browsing this brochure and planning your 2016 vacation. 

All of us at The Wayfarers look forward to having you walk with us soon. 

Michael West, Founder

table of contents 

2 Wayfaring - the ultimate in slow travel 

4 Service, fellowship and comfort 

6 Caring for people and the environment 

8 Private Walks 

9 Back to Back Walks 

Photo Contest 2015 

10 United Kingdom & Ireland 

14 England Thomas Hardy's Dorset NEW 

Far from the Madding Crow 

15 England The Lake District NEW 

Glittering lakes, majestic mountains 

16 England Cornwall 

Smugglers’ coves and spectacular gardens 

17 England North Cornwall NEW 

King Arthur's Tintagel and Poldark 

18 England Northumbria 

Land of castles, saints and Vikings 

19 England Coast to Coast: 

Across The Lake District and Yorkshire Dales to the sea 

20 England The Cotswolds 

Quintessential England 

21 England Jane Austen Country 

Insiders’ guide to Jane’s family life 

22 England Pentillie Castle: 

Live like a Lord in a private castle 

23 England ‘Downton Abbey’: 

Victorian splendor and megalithic monuments 

24 England Yorkshire 

The Fells and Dales of James Herriot country 

25 Wales Pembrokeshire Coast 

The Wild Coast of Wales 

26 Scotland Outer Hebrides NEW 

Skye, Lewis and Harris 

27 Scotland The Highlands 

Serene lochs, majestic mountains and Royal Edinburgh 

28 N. Ireland Northern Ireland 

Historic cities, spectacular glens, wild coasts 

29 Ireland The Ring of Kerry 

Dingle Peninsula and Celtic history 

30 Europe ~ Spain & France 

33 Spain Camino de Santiago 

Life-affirming journey on the ancient Pilgrimage Route 

34 France/Spain Pays Basque 

Wild landscapes, sparkling coast and sophisticated resorts 

35 France Brittany & Normandy 

D-Day Landings and Mont St Michel 

36 France Burgundy by Barge 

Gourmet cuisine by luxury barge 

37 France Burgundy NEW 

Walks and Wines from Beaune to Cluny 

38 France Alsace 

Villages, Vosges & Vineyards 

39 France Provence 

Fragrances, fine dining and artistic inspiration 

40 Europe ~ Italy 

43 Italy Puglia 

Beauty, history and local cuisine 

44 Italy The Veneto NEW 

Palladio and Prosecco 

45 Italy The Dolomites 

Italy's awesome wild mountains 

46 Italy Lucca to Siena 

A Pilgrim Way 

47 Italy Classic Tuscany 

Birthplace of the Renaissance 

48 Italy Tuscany & Umbria 

Bucolic landscapes, vineyards and Renaissance splendor 

49 Italy The Italian Lakes 

Como, Maggiore, Lugano & Orta 

50 Italy The Amalfi Coast & The Isle of Capri 

Vintage glamour and Roman remains 

51 Italy Cinque Terre 

The glamorous Italian Riviera 

52 Italy Western Sicily 

Ancient temples, nature reserves and fortified wine 

53 Italy Eastern Sicily 

Mount Etna, Classical sites and coastal paths 

54 Europe 

57 Austria Winter Tyrolean Alps NEW 

Hiking or cross-country skiing 

58 Germany, Bavaria & Tyrolean Alps NEW 

Austria 

Alpine perfection and fairytale palaces 

60 Norway Bergen & the Western Fjords 

Spectacular fjords and unforgettable scenery 

61 Slovenia Slovenia 

Mountains, lakes and unspoiled rural life 

62 Croatia The Dalmatian Coast 

Islands, sleepy villages and shining seas 

64 Czech Republic Vienna to Prague 

Crossroads of Europe 

65 Czech Republic, Prague to Dresden 

Germany Landscape of artists and poets 

66 The Americas, Africa & The Pacific 

69 United States Colorado 

Summertime adventure in Wilderness Mountains 

70 United States Utah 

The Grand Canyon, Bryce & Zion 

71 United States New Mexico 

Ancient Land of Enchantment 

72 Argentina Patagonia 

The Remote Paradise 

74 New Zealand New Zealand 

Spectacular South Island 

76 The Wayfarers’ Travel Collection 

78 Frequently asked questions 

79 Preparing for your Walk 

81 Walk Schedule 

1

Wayfaring ~ 

the ultimate 

Roy Robinson 

the ultimate 

slow travel, means 

absorbing each 

‘Wayfaring’, 

destination up close, 

on foot and with friends. 

Nothing beats the simple rhythm of gentle 

walking and good fellowship in beautiful 

places. You see and appreciate so much. All 

your senses come alive; you can smell the 

fragrance of clean air, hear birdsong, see 

spectacular views and taste the local delicacies. 

You can stop to look, talk and listen. 

There’s time to appreciate and enjoy, seeing 

deeper and discovering more. 

With The Wayfarers you can literally 

walk away from the noisy highway of 

motorized travel and escape along a 

greener, fresher, more natural path. 

When will you join The Wayfarers’ circle of 

friends on our great adventure wandering 

the world? 

~ 

‘The routes were gorgeous and the 

heritage talks fascinating. I especially 

like the way Alan developed the talks to 

chronologically fit with the landscape of 

the areas we explored over the course 

of the week.’ 

~ 

‘I enjoy walking and being alone with 

my thoughts while still being in a group 

and able to chat with new friends if I 

want. I enjoy meeting new people.’ 

~ 

The best guides in the business 

On a Wayfarers’ walking vacation you 

travel with a small group of like-minded 

people under the guidance of our 

renowned Walk Leaders. After 30 years in 

the travel business we believe that no 

other tour operator big or small has 

guides like ours. 

Wayfarers’ Walk Leaders all have personal 

connections with the area you’ll be 

visiting. They know the real country and 

the ways of the people who live there. 

They are founts of knowledge, full of 

details about the history, culture and 

wildlife. 

2 

For more details: www.thewayfarers.com

in slow travel 

They know the best place to get traditional 

Sicilian ice cream in Siracusa and where to 

see golden plover on the Yorkshire moors 

beloved of James Herriot. They’ll tell the 

stories of the real people who lived in 

historic homes like Highclere Castle, made 

famous by TV’s ‘Downton Abbey’. They can 

identify Alpine herbs, tell you which rare 

liqueurs they flavor, and raise a glass with 

you in the evening as you rest and discuss 

the day’s walking. 

While our Walk Leaders dedicate themselves 

to walking alongside you, our everresourceful 

Walk Managers take care of all 

the logistics. They transport your luggage, 

meet you along the Walk with delicious 

picnics and appetizing snacks and go on 

ahead to ensure a welcoming reception at 

your hotel. 

We take care to limit the sizes of our groups 

to a maximum of 16 people with most 

groups averaging 10-12 people. With a ratio 

of at least two staff to every group you are 

assured of the highest levels of service and 

attention at all times. 

Call us at 1-800-249-4620 (US & Canada) 

Caring, fun and charismatic, our Walk 

Leaders and Walk Managers are drawn 

from a huge variety of backgrounds. Over 

the years they have included retired 

colonels, farmers, ambassadors and 

academics. 

Whatever their backgrounds, all 

our Walk staff share one thing in common: 

they will look after you superbly, entertain 

you and become your friend. 

~ 

‘The Walk Leaders are excellent and 

always engaged with you. They’re very 

knowledgeable about the area; its history 

and culture. They do far more than get 

you from A to B.’ 

~ 

‘We love The Wayfarers’ screening of 

Leaders and Managers. Their lives are so 

integral to the walks.’ 

~ 

‘The Wayfarers hire the best people. It’s 

an extraordinary organization and I feel 

blessed to have found it.’ 

~ 

‘Food was delicious and bountiful!’ 

~ 

Stephen Banks 

3

Dave Robertson 

Stephen Banks 

Service, fellowship 

Few travel companies can say that 

guests have a direct line of communication 

to the ‘chief executive’. Our 

Founder, Michael West, responds 

personally to emails and sends individual 

replies to everyone who fills in a feedback 

form after a Walk. 

Michael’s accessibility is typical of our 

personal, people-focused approach. We want 

you to have a wonderful time when you join 

our circle of friends. 

We strive to exceed your expectations and 

make our trips even better every year. We 

stay in hand-picked hotels and accommo - 

dations that combine comfort with character, 

adding to your overall experience of a 

destination. 

Meals are equally select and distinctive; 

featuring delicacies prepared the traditional 

way by chefs who love their culinary 

heritage. There is ample opportunity to 

sample and share amazing local specialties. 

At the same time, we understand that 

guests may have dietary requirements and 

we ensure that everyone enjoys a menu 

tailored to their individual preferences. 

We offer superb value for money; everything 

is included, from meals and drinks to 

accommodation and guides. Our guests are 

discerning people who understand the 

quality of our Walks. In fact they often say 

they get far more than they paid for, after 

all, how can you put a price on friendship 

and lifelong great memories? 

~ 

‘This has been my third walk with 

Wayfarers. I’ve been very impressed with 

the consistency of the exceptional quality 

of the accommodations and meals.’ 

~ 

‘What makes Wayfarers Walks so special 

is the visits with local people and the 

invitations to their homes.’ 

~ 

4

Stephen Banks 

and comfort 

Unique itineraries 

Our wonderful itineraries are unique to 

The Wayfarers. We develop all of our own 

trips personally and update them afresh 

every year. Even in well-visited areas, we 

offer inspired routes and local contacts 

that you won’t find with any other tour 

company. 

We offer an enticing mix, from bucket list 

showstoppers in popular destinations to 

trips in adventurous areas off the beaten 

track. Whether it’s the untracked wild 

expanse of Patagonia, deep forests on the 

borders of the Czech Republic, or trails 

high in the mountains of New Mexico, it’s 

our pleasure to find the path less traveled 

and guide you expertly along it. 

Wherever you walk with us, we want you 

to savor each step, because the journey is 

the adventure. 

~ 

‘It’s seeing all the secret stuff’ 

~ 

‘My 10th Walk could be my favorite!! 

The attention to every detail, flexibility 

and perfect weather made this a 

stunning success.’ 

What’s included in a 

Wayfarers’ Walk 

• Small group sizes - 10-12 people on 

average with a maximum of 16 

• Full-time services of a Walk Leader 

and Walk Manager 

• A backup vehicle for resting 

walkers and moving luggage 

• Comprehensive Travel Information 

Package and Reading List 

• Diverse itineraries with an 

emphasis on history, geography, 

culture, peoples, flora and fauna 

• Demonstrations, wine tastings, 

admissions to museums and 

historic sites 

• All ground transfers (ferries, 

cable cars, trains, etc) as specified 

• Maps and unique souvenirs to 

commemorate your trip 

• First-class accommodation with 

cultural and historical interest 

• All meals (unless noted). 

Special dietary requirements? 

No problem! 

• Wine with dinner 

• On-trail snacks and refreshments 

• All gratuities at hotels 

and restaurants 

Stephen Banks Allan Rock 

For more details: www.thewayfarers.com 

or call us at 1-800-249-4620 (US & Canada) 

5

Stephen Banks 

Caring for people and 

Dick Dixon 

Loyalty Rewards for 

Wayfarers’ Friends 

Walking with The Wayfarers 

brings direct benefit to the 

people who welcome us 

so warmly to their region. 

As the ultimate ‘slow travelers’ we believe 

that meeting and spending time with 

those who care for their heritage is good 

for everyone. Our support nurtures local 

economies and we gain greater insight 

into local culture. 

As a small, independent company, we 

naturally understand the ‘small is beautiful’ 

approach. We avoid hotel chains in favor of 

locally-owned inns, eat in restaurants 

serving food grown by local farmers and 

use local transportation and amenities. At 

the end of a trip we come away with 

genuine understanding and appreciation 

of the people and places we visit. 

The Wayfarers has long supported the 

principles of ecotourism as itemized by 

The International Ecotourism Society. These 

include building environmental and 

cultural awareness and respect and raising 

sensitivity to host countries’ political, 

environmental and social climate. 

We’re members of the Adventure Travel 

Trade Association (ATTA) an alliance of tour 

operators which recognizes that adventure 

tourism is inextricably dependent on 

natural and cultural resources and 

protection and promotion of these is a 

vital part of responsible tourism. 

We directly support a wide range of local, 

national and international charities and 

conservation initiatives. Nearly 20 of our 

Walks feature World Heritage sites and in 

>> After One Walk - 

You join the thousands of alumni 

who we call Wayfarers' Friends. 

Benefits: Special Wayfarers' Friends’ 

Price, eligible for Friends promotions. 

>> After Six Walks - 

Wayfarers' Friends are 

automatically enrolled 

in the Founders' Circle. 

Benefits: Welcome Gift 

Pack, advance notice of new Walks, 

early-bird booking privileges and 

late-booking deals. 

>> After 12 Walks - 

Wayfarers' Friends are eligible for a 

FREE 13th Walk. 

6 


the environment 

the UK we visit more than 18 National 

Trust properties. 

None of this is new. We have cared about 

the people and places we visit ever since 

our inception more than 30 years ago and 

we have remained true to our values. 

~ 

‘It’s much less touristic. You get out in 

the countryside and see the real life of 

the country’ 

~ 

‘Enriching conversations with leaders and 

participants. Very interesting part of the 

world. I learned a great deal while having 

fun in beautiful hotels with delicious food 

and wine.’ 

~ 

FOUNDERS’ WALKS 2016 

UNESCO World Heritage site Český Krumlov, 

Czech Republic 

The Wayfarers is proud to be a member of 

the Trusted Adventures travel alliance. 

We are a group of distinguished industry 

pioneers dedicated to the highest standards 

of small group travel and to giving back to 

the places where we travel. 

The Royal Oak Foundation 

Make the most of your time 

in the British Isles and 

help the National Trust’s 

Conservation Efforts 

Membership starts at US$ 65 

100% tax deductible 

Free entry to 350+ properties in England, Wales, 

Northern Ireland and 100 properties in Scotland 

www.royal-oak.org 

Scotland: Outer Hebrides 

May 29 - June 4 

France: Burgundy 

June 5-11 

Roy Robinson 

Christopher Hague and Michael West, 

Co-Founders of The Wayfarers, look 

forward to hosting you on one of the 

Founders’ Walks in 2016. 

Are Founders’ Walks reserved solely 

for members of the Founders’ Circle? 

Absolutely not! Everyone is welcome 

to sign up for a Founders’ Walk, but 

they do fill up fast so be quick! 

‘Part of the fun 

is to go on a 

Founders’ Walk 

and be the first 

to see a 

new destination.’ 


7

Courtney Dunn 

Private Walks 

Create your very own dream vacation 

Our Private Walks are a 

splendid way to celebrate a 

special anniversary or 

event by creating your 

own guestlist and itinerary. You choose 

the time, the place and the company 

and we will give you the perfect 

Wayfarers’ experience of a lifetime. 

Private Walks are great for bringing 

together family groups of all ages. 

When families are far-flung and see 

less of each other than they would like, 

the chance to spend quality time 

together is especially precious. 

We have arranged many birthday and 

anniversary trips, hosted college 

alumni and walking clubs and 

arranged specialist tours at the highest 

level for people particularly interested 

in art, cuisine, gardening or wine. 

Private Walks are completely customized and 

you can walk as much or little as you want, 

add or delete places on the itinerary and 

choose from our full range of hotel options. 

You can choose to group book an existing 

Wayfarers’ brochure itinerary and reserve it 

entirely for your party. Or you can ask us to 

devise you a bespoke, off-brochure Walk; the 

choice is yours and we will be delighted to 

help. We are always honored to turn celebrations 

into lifelong happy memories. 

Wayfarers’ Private Walks include: 

• Full-time services of a Walk Leader and 

Walk Manager. 

• A backup vehicle for resting walkers and 

moving luggage. 

• Upgrades to suit your requirements – 

private walks can be ‘off the peg’ or 

completely bespoke, it’s your choice. 

Contact us to find out more. 

Amy Martin 

8 


Sizzling Sicily 

Back to Back 

>> 

Have you ever thought about taking 

our Walks back-to-back? 

Just one transatlantic return trip 

gives you the option to really make 

the most of your precious vacation 

time. 

Minimize the jet lag, save on the airfares – 

and don’t forget that we’ll treat you to a 

night in a hotel in between your Walks, as 

well as our Wayfarers Friends’ loyalty 

discount on both Walks for first-timers. 

Here are some back-to-back options to 

whet the appetite: 

• Sizzling Sicily – discover ancient 

temples, nature reserves, coastal paths 

and a volcano on our Walks in the 

west and the east of the island. 

• Hike the ‘Crossroads of Europe’ and 

the fascinating Czech republic by 

hiking from Vienna to Prague and then 

on to Dresden. 

• Two Cornwall Walks offer smugglers’ 

coves and lush gardens, King Arthur’s 

Tintagel and Poldark country. 

• Enjoy the craic in the Emerald Isle – 

proud cities, glens and wild coasts in 

the republic and Northern Ireland. 

“For me, back-to-back trips are great values 

(one airfare, two great places, free night 

between trips) as well as a wonderful way 

to immerse myself in the region. Several of 

us took both the Western and Eastern Sicily 

trips and felt we truly covered the best of 

Sicily by doing the two walks together. The 

last night of a walk is usually a bit sad for 

me, knowing I have to leave a magical 

place. Back-to-backs give me another week 

to enjoy the country, the food and the 

special Wayfarers on the trips.” 

Marilyn W. 

Kathleen Metsala 


Cornwall 

The Emerald Isle 

Photo Contest 2015 

Thank you to everyone 

who submitted 

photos for our 2015 

photo contest! 

Winners receive an item of 

quality logo clothing from our 

online ‘Get Ready to Walk 

Shop’. We are always looking 

for more good photos. 

Please send us your best shots from 

your most recent Walks by email 

(5 MB maximum) to 

photos@thewayfarers.com or mail a 

CD/DVD to our Newport office. 

(174 Bellevue Avenue 

Newport, RI 02840) 

or email photos@theway farers.com 

for access to a shared file in Dropbox. 

2015 

Photo 

Contest 

Winners: 

Dale Brown 

Dick Dixon 



Kathy Ross 


9

Harriet Plumley 

16 

10 

Ellen Barone 

1 Thomas Hardy's Dorset 

2 The Lake District 

3 Cornwall 

4 North Cornwall 

5 Northumbria 

6 Coast to Coast 

7 The Cotswolds 

8 Jane Austen Country

13 

Inverness 

Scotland 

14 

Glasgow 

Edinburgh 

5 


15 

Northern 

Ireland 

Belfast 

2 

6 

11 

Dublin Manchester 

Ireland 

Wales England 

12 

Cardiff 

1 

7 

10 

8 

London 

Al Ludwick 

4 9 

3 

0 miles 100 

9 Pentillie Castle 

10 ‘Downton Abbey’ 

11 Yorkshire 

12 Pembrokeshire Coast 

13 Outer Hebrides 

14 The Highlands 

15 Northern Ireland 

16 The Ring of Kerry 

Stephanie Martin 

Ellen Barone 

11

Testimonials 

Julie Vanek 

“I’ve wanted to go to Southwest 

England for a long time because 

I had seen pictures, heard about it, and knew 

it was beautiful. It’s a cliché, but “there’s 

nothing like being there”. I have traveled a 

great deal in the US, Europe, and Great 

Britain, and Cornwall is truly one of the most 

beautiful places I’ve ever been. And, April is a 

perfect time to be there – it’s before the 

major tourist season. Everything is just beginning 

to bloom, all the different shades of 

green are amazing, and wildflowers are 

everywhere. Because the leaves on trees are 

not fully opened, it’s possible to walk in the 

woods and see and hear the ocean. What 

could be better? This was my fourth 

Wayfarers hike and my seventh hiking trip 

and I think that the paths and trails that the 

Wayfarers has laid out for the week of hiking 

were the most consistently beautiful and 

varied of any hiking trip I have been on. 

The walk offers so much variety – the sea, the 

cliffs, the woodlands, meadows, farmland, 

small villages, boat rides, solitude, companionship. 

And, then, there’s the history, the 

literature, the music, the art. The hiking is 

some of the best I’ve done with Wayfarers – 

off roads, good trails, beautiful, calming, 

freeing.” 

Annette J., Cornwall 

“...just the sheer beauty of the landscape and 

the feeling of being away from the world. On 

each Walk I have taken, I never fully expect 

how beautiful and well-planned the walks 

are.” 

Caroline H., Coast to Coast 

“I loved how Kate and Colin kept us away 

from the hordes of tourists. I felt I was in a 

little bubble exploring the Cotswolds on my 

own with a few good friends. They made an 

effort so that we didn't see anything that 

was less than lovely. Fabulous!” 

Jody M., The Cotswolds 

“The countryside was more lovely than I 

expected and the information and discussion 

of Jane Austen more interesting.” 

Ann A., Jane Austen Country 

“The cultural visits and lectures were 

terrific! It was a gem of an experience.” 

Lenore R., Northumbria 

“I loved the bird sanctuary and the archery 

lesson and the castle tour was excellent. 

The beach walks were a treat, too. Then 

there were the characters we met…” 

Wendy K., Northumbria 

“My hyper energy had turned into a 

peaceful calm completing the dream trip of 

Coast to Coast. Taking the Scotland trip 

provided me with rest, reflection and time 

to slow down to walk amongst the beauty. 

Guide: Bill, was very knowledgeable of 

the history and botanical interests of 

this outstanding country. Being the 

gentleman he is, the daily walks guided 

by Bill seemed to flow along, filling my 

thoughts with all of the history and 

beauty I could absorb. Looking forward 

to being in Bill's care in the future to 

12 


Roy Robinson 

experience the learning and enrichment of 

his guiding. 

Manager: Morag, we clicked from the 

minute we met, maybe a distant cousin on 

my Scottish side of the family. Her smile 

greeted us and instantly I knew the 

Scotland trip was a fine choice. Morag's 

energy and pride in making her Mother 

Land visitors enjoy their time was expert in 

every way. She is a fine example of 

Scottish women with her thorough knowledge 

of the ancient history, pointing out 

details at every turn. Hearing her sing , I 

will never forget....... Her snacks and meal 

attention were on par with the once again 

expert Wayfarer's behind the scenes attention 

to detail. Looking forward to walking 

with Morag in the future, filling my mind 

with history and Scottish beauty I so 

adore. 

Accommodations: Superb again, each hotel 

was excellent. My favorite was Killie - 

crankie House, staying three nights allowed 

time to rest, enjoy the staff, location and 

best of all Henrietta!!! 

Food service: Five star again...... The venue 

of Scottish food tasting kept in line with 

the history and delightful to experience. 

The formula of Wayfarers in almost indescribable, 

as I tell my friends here at home. 

You have to experience Wayfarers to understand. 

Flawless to the guest, very hard 

work for the above team to pull flawless off. 

Home, after a life changing trip has 

breathed new life into me and I know 

that my decision was correct after years 

of research. Wayfarers is the way to 

walk in the future.” 

Paige B., Scotland 

“I want you guys to know what a fabulous 

time I had on the Yorkshire trip. I 

completed the evaluation but must tell 

you that it was one of the best vacations 

ever! Especially walking through 

such gorgeous country with few people, 

hearing Alan explain the history, being 

with Sue, who has got to be one of the 

most organized gals I know, the food, 

the country...gosh I guess everything 

was wonderful. My first trip with 

Wayfarers will not be my last. Thanks 

for all your help. It made a huge difference. 

People in England were so nice...I 

had no problem getting around. Loved 

it, loved it! Hope to take one of my 

daughters on my next trip. Take care 

and have a good summer.” 

Cookie L., Yorkshire 

“Enjoyed the locals - the dry-stone 

waller, the sheepdog trainer, Lord 

Bolton’s son, the racehorse trainer and 

“Mary Queen of Scots” (aka our 

Manager).” 

Anne M., Yorkshire 

“Thank you for always making my 

vacations such highlights.” 

Barbara M., Scotland 


13

England 

• Visit Thomas Hardy's town house 

• Private tour of the lovely home of 

the Earl and Countess of Sandwich, 

a location in the 2015 Far From the 

Madding Crowd movie 

Stephen Banks 

Thomas Hardy’s 

Dorset 

• Visit the world's only managed 

colony of nesting mute swans 

• Hike a spectacular stretch of The 

Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site 

• Visit a privately owned former 

watermill with a special garden 

Far from the 

madding crowd 

NEW 

Rendezvous at Crewkerne 

Station and transfer to Bridge House 

Hotel, Beaminster. Welcome Drink and Dinner in hotel 

Overnight: Beaminster, The BridgeHouse Hotel 

We walk through the green Dorset countryside 

and take coffee in the gardens of an old mill. We continue 

to historic Mapperton House, the home of the Earls of 

Sandwich, a location for the recent Far From the Madding 

Crowd movie. After lunch and a private tour of the house, 

we walk back to our hotel. Before dinner, we enjoy a 

reading of the poetry of Hardy and of Dorset poet William 

Barnes. 


We take a tour of the UK’s only thatched 

brewery and walk on to West Bay, where the TV series 

Broadchurch is filmed. We take a boat ride (weather 

permitting) to Lyme Regis, for amazing views of the 

Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site from the sea. We walk 

on the famous harbor wall, the Cobb, immortalized in the 

movie The French Lieutenant’s Woman, for a harbor-side 

lunch. Later, we visit the farmhouse home of The 

Wayfarers’ Michael and Betsy West. 


St Catherine's Chapel - Abbotsbury 

we walk from Beaminster to Evershot, following 

footpaths and lanes little changed since Hardy’s 

time. We lunch at a country pub and continue to 

our stunning hotel set in a lovely stone village. 

We dine at the historic Acorn Inn. 

Overnight: Evershot, Summer Lodge 

We trace the life and times of Thomas 

Hardy himself, see the area where he was born 

and lived, and how he used real locations in his 

beloved Dorset to provide the backdrop for his 

novels. We visit the thatched cottage where 

Hardy was born and walk to Stinsford, where, in 

the delightful little medieval churchyard, his 

heart lies buried. We then proceed to Dorchester 

to visit the museum to see the Hardy collection. 

Abbotsbury 

Nancy Siepman 

After lunch we walk to Hardy’s house, Max Gate, which 

he designed. Farewell Dinner in the hotel. 

Overnight: Evershot, Summer Lodge 

The Wayfarers will transfer you to Dorchester 

South Rail Station for your onward connections. 

An exhilarating hike along the Chesil 

Beach to visit the Swannery, the world’s only 

managed colony of nesting mute swans. We 

lunch in the Abbotsbury Subtropical 

Gardens and, in the afternoon, we 

walk along the ridge with 

wonderful views of the coast. 

Overnight: Beaminster, 

The BridgeHouse Hotel 

In the footsteps of 

Hardy’s Tess of the D’Urbervilles 

Lizzie Crabb 

Arrival: Crewkerne Rail Station 

Departure: Dorchester South Rail Station 

Terrain: Pastoral countryside, coastal 

walking, village lanes and some hills. 

7-12 miles walking per day. 

14 For more details: www.thewayfarers.com 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Horseback Riding Golf Antique Shopping Biking 

US$ 4,495 per person 

(US$ 4,270 Wayfarers’ Friends) 

(US$ 565 Single Supplement) 

Trip Length: 6 nights 

2016 Dates: 

May 15-21, 

September 25 - October 1

The Lake District 

Glittering lakes and 

majestic mountains 

England 

• Hike two of England’s highest 

mountains 

• Discover the secrets of a 

Druids Stone Circle 

• Walk in one of England’s finest 

National Parks 

• Visit the home of John Ruskin, 

philosopher husband of Effie Gray 

• Cruise along Lake Windermere 

Sunrise at Derwent Water 

NEW 

Victorian writer. We explore the gardens 

and trails before returning to our hotel. 

Overnight: Bowness, 

Lindeth Howe Hotel 

We rendezvous at Windermere Rail Station 

for a short transfer to Lindeth Howe a country 

house hotel once owned by Beatrix Potter. We 

meet on the lawns for our Welcome drink overlooking 

Lake Windermere, followed by dinner in 

the award winning restaurant. 

Overnight: Bowness, Lindeth Howe Hotel 

Walking from the door of our hotel we 

follow country lanes and paths, across footbridges 

and fords, we reach the inn on Strawberry Bank 

Haverthwaite railway 

for lunch. Our path continues through meadows 

and woodlands to catch the restored steam train 

to Lakeside, where a ferry returns us to to our 

hotel. 

Overnight: Bowness, Lindeth Howe Hotel 

We walk up to the ‘Old Man of Coniston’, 

with spectacular views of Lake Coniston and 

beyond to the Irish Sea. After lunch in the village 

below, we board a steam yacht to visit Brantwood 

House, the final home of John Ruskin the eminent 

A scenic drive to the glacial valley of Langdale for 

a challenging hike over Stake Pass to two enchanting 

valleys. of Langstrath and Borrowdale. We lunch in the 

village and continue via Derwent Water, the ‘Queen of the 

Lakes’. Our walk ends in lively Keswick, huddled between 

the two peaks of Skiddaw and Blencathra. 

Overnight: Keswick, Lyzzick Hall 

We walk along the lake-shore of Derwent Water to 

explore the mysteries of the 38 stones of The Druids Circle. 

Country lanes lead us to the old mining village of Threlkeld 

for lunch in a 17th century Inn. Our afternoon walk takes us 

to the foothills of Blencathra, the famous ‘mountain for sale’ 

and return to our hotel. 


Our morning hike takes us to the summit of 

Blencathra. Towering over the town of Keswick and the 

Northern lakes, this monumental mountain has fine views 

to the Isle of Man, the Pennine Hills and Scotland beyond. 

(An easier option of a short forest trail along the shore of 

Derwent Water). We enjoy a well earned lunch at a traditional 

Lakeland inn followed by a visit to the traditional 

market town of Keswick to explore its museums, art 

galleries and artisan shops before returning to our hotel and 

farewell dinner. 


The Wayfarers transfer you to Penrith Rail Station. 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Arrival: Windermere Rail Station 

Departure: Penrith Rail Station 

Terrain: Mountain trails and tracks, some 

steep ascents and descents. Meadows, woodlands, 

lakeside paths, wild uplands and open 

moor lands. 8-15 miles walking per day. 

Note: Although this is a challenging week’s 

walking, there are less arduous options 

every day for those who prefer gentler alternatives. 

Fishing Swimming Water Sports Mountain Biking 





2016 Dates: 

July 3-9, 

October 2-8 

15

England 

Cornwall 

• Classic Cornish creeks, coasts and 

cliffs 

• Visit world famous Trebah Gardens 

• Visit The Lost Gardens of Heligan 

• See settings for Daphne 

DuMaurier’s ‘Rebecca’ and 

‘Frenchman’s Creek’ 

• Traditional Cornish Cream Tea 

• Exotic plants and sunny beaches 

contrast with craggy coves and 

stormy seas in the Celtic county of 

Smugglers’ coves and 

Cornwall, home to some of Britain's 

most atmospheric landscapes. 

spectacular gardens 

After our rendezvous in Liskeard, we meet in 

our lovely hotel overlooking the bay at Porthallow, for 

The Wayfarers' Welcome Dinner and Introductory Talk. 

Overnight: Porthallow, Talland Bay Hotel 

Our morning walk takes us along the coastal 

footpath with sensational views over the romantic 

Lantic Bay to Polruan. We then take the ferry to lunch 

in a local pub in Fowey (pronounced Foy) and we have 

time to wander around this picturesque town before 

crossing the river to Bodinnick. After passing by 

Ferryside, Daphne du Maurier's first Cornish home, we 

take the beautiful Hall Walk which meanders through 

woodland and along the banks of the river with some 

of the best views in this area. 

Overnight: Porthallow, Talland Bay Hotel 

We walk through the Georgian harbor of 

Charlestown before joining the coast path and heading 

off the beaten track to Trenarren. After finding the 

secluded beach of Hallane we make our way to 

Pentewan, once an important harbor to the local China 

clay industry. In the afternoon we head inland to 

discover the Lost Gardens of Heligan. 

Overnight: St Mawes, Hotel Tresanton 

We start our day with a visit to St Mawes Castle, 

built by King Henry VIII in the 1540s, before following 

the River Fal to the hidden church of St Just in 

Roseland. We then cross the peninsula to lunch 

in the harbor village of Portscatho. We 

continue along the South West Coast path and 

to the Percuil River to return by ferry to our 

seaside hotel. 

Overnight: St Mawes, Hotel Tresanton 

From St Mawes we board the 

ferry for Falmouth, where we join a 

coastal trail for our walk to Maenporth 

and our lunch overlooking the bay. A hike 

along the sparkling Helford River takes us 

to the world-famous Trebah Gardens. We 

end our day with dinner in a local pub. 

Overnight: Mawnan Smith, Budock Vean Hotel 

We cross the river by ferry to the 

tiny village of Helford then walk the 

coastal path to the mouth of the estuary 

at Dennis Head. We see the church of 

St Anthony-in-Meneage, standing at 

the water's edge, and follow the 

creek to the exquisite village of 

Manaccan for lunch in a thatched 

pub. We go on to Daphne du 

Maurier's 'Frenchman's Creek' and 

home by ferry to Mawnan Smith 

for our Farewell Dinner. 

Overnight: Mawnan Smith, 

Budock Vean Hotel 

The Wayfarers 

provide a transfer to 

Truro Rail Station. 

Descending into Trebah Gardens 

St Mawes Castle 

16 

Arrival: Liskeard Rail Station 

Departure: Truro Rail Station 

Terrain: Contoured coastal paths, 

riverbank and estuary trails, with undulations 

of 150-250 ft and occasional 

short steeper climbs and descents. 

7-10 miles walking per day 

More details: www.thewayfarers.com 

Swimming 

Optional 

Fishing 





2016 Dates: 

June 5-11, 

October 2-8 

Opportunities 

Massage/Spa 

Golf 

Antique Shopping 

>> 2 are better 

Enjoy the 

Full Cornwall 

Experience: 

Book the 

whole 

journey!

England 

Dick Dixon 

North Cornwall 

than 1! >> 

Transfer from Bodmin 

Parkway rail station to Boscastle. 

Welcome reception and dinner 

in the hotel. 

Overnight: Boscastle, The Wellington Hotel 

We explore Boscastle’s historic 

harbour, then hike on the dramatic Cornish 

coast. We experience the myth and magic of the 

clifftop ruins of Tintagel Castle, said to be the birthplace 

of King Arthur, perched on a rocky headland 

with stunning views. After a pub lunch, we walk 

Special Price 

US$ 8,150 

(per person 

based on double 

occupancy) 

for both Walks 

Tintagel Castle 

Port Isaac 

Arrival: Bodmin Parkway rail station 

Departure: Truro rail station 

Terrain: Terrain: Contoured coastal 

paths, riverbank and estuary trails, with 

undulations of 150-250 ft and occasional 

short steep climbs and descents. 



King Arthur's Tintagel 

and Poldark 

through countryside to the Arthurian Centre, to 

learn more about King Arthur and his Knights of 

the Round Table. We transfer to the 

fishing village of Rock and our next 

hotel. 

Overnight: Rock, St. Enodoc Hotel 

We hike the Coastal Path to 

pretty Port Isaac, the setting for the TV 

series Doc Martin. We lunch in an inn, 

before continuing our walk through 

rolling countryside to the beautifully 

restored Long Cross Gardens. Dinner in 

a local pub. 


We take the ferry across to 

Padstow and meander through the 

Optional 

Horseback Riding 

Opportunities 

Golf 





2016 Dates: 

June 12-18, 

October 9-15 

Biking 

Dick Dixon 

Dick Dixon 

NEW 

• The South West Coastal Path 

• King Arthur’s birthplace at Tintagel 

Castle, and the Arthurian Center at 

Slaughterbridge 

• Port Isaac, the fictional Port Wenn in 

the TV series Doc Martin. 

• Discover Cornish mining history and 

the glorious coast that inspired the 

Poldark series of novels and where 

the recent TV drama was filmed. 

• Taste the wine at one of England’s 

foremost vineyards, visit beautiful 

restored Victorian gardens and admire 

a perfect Elizabethan manor house. 

streets of this charming fishing village 

before lunch in a local pub. We take up 

the coastal path again, ending with a visit to Prideaux 

Place, an exquisite Elizabethan manor house. We 

enjoy a Cornish Cream Tea before catching the ferry 

back to our hotel. 


We explore the picturesque vales and rolling 

hills of the Camel Valley. We have lunch at a country pub in 

Chapel Amble with its village green, complete with an 

ancient piggery, and then spend the afternoon walking 

through peaceful open countryside. We end the day at the 

Camel Valley Vineyard for a tour and wine tasting. 

Overnight: Mithian, Rose in Vale Hotel 

We walk from our hotel and visit the only surviving, 

before reaching the ancient and unspoilt village of St Agnes. 

This is real Poldark country, where mining buildings and 

chimneys cling to the rocky coast; part of the UK’s largest 

World Heritage Site. We discover the ruined harbor of 

Trevaunance Cove, and then walk the rugged coastline to 

find the Wheal Coates tin mine. Lunch at a local pub in 

Towan Cross is followed by a climb to the top of St Agnes 

Beacon for the breathtaking views of the coastline before we 

return to our hotel for our farewell dinner. 

Overnight: Mithian, Rose in Vale Hotel 

After breakfast, The Wayfarers will take you to Truro 

rail station for your onward rail connections. 

17

England 

• Cross the border into Scotland 

• Take the Pilgrim Route to Holy 

Island 

• View the puffins and seals of 

Farne Island archipelago 

• Visit Alnwick Castle – ‘Hogwarts’ 

in Harry Potter 

• Enjoy fine dining in a treehouse 

Northumbria 

We rendezvous at Berwick Rail 

Station for a short transfer to Marshall 

Meadows, an impressive Georgian 

country house and England’s most 

northerly hotel. 

Overnight: Berwick-upon-Tweed, Marshall Meadows Hotel 

We walk from our hotel along the Berwickshire 

Coastal Path to cross the border into Scotland. Our route 

hugs the spectacular coastline with secluded coves and 

hidden harbours lined with stacks of lobster pots. We 

lunch at the famous Eyemouth Golf Club with its 

panoramic views. After lunch we pass the surfers’ paradise 

at Coldingham Bay and end our day’s walk at the 

picturesque fishing village of St Abbs. 

Overnight: Berwick-upon-Tweed, Marshall Meadows Hotel 

We begin our walk on the Elizabethan ramparts 

of the border town of Berwick. After a short transfer, we 

take the Pilgrim Way (subject to tides) to the Holy Island 

of Lindisfarne to explore the island, visit the remains of 

the Abbey and sip the famous mead. We experience the 

unique serenity and haunting beauty, which persuaded 

both St Aidan and St Cuthbert to seek solace there. 

Overnight: Bamburgh, Waren House Hotel 

Land of castles, saints and Vikings 

Alnwick Castle 

National Trust Warden for a talk and short walk on 

the island. Puffins * or ‘Tommy Noddies’ as they are 

known locally are abundant as well as grey seals. 

Overnight: Chathill, Doxford Hall Hotel 

This morning we join St Os wald’s Way, 

passing the desolate, romantic ruins of Dunstan burgh 

Castle. We lunch on fresh seafood at a fishermen’s 

inn before heading inland to the magnificent Alnwick 

Castle, one of Europe’s largest inhabited castles and 

stronghold of the powerful Percy family since 1309. 

We view the spectacular new gardens, including the 

infamous Poison Garden of deadly plants. Once home 

to Shakespeare’s hero Harry Hotspur, the castle 

featured as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films. 

Overnight: Alnwick, The White Swan Hotel 

A short transfer takes us to the market town 

of Rothbury, the capital of Coquetdale, where we 

hike the rugged Cheviot Hills to the Sacred 

Mountain of Simonside. (The easier option is to 

spend longer in Rothbury and Cragside House for 

those who wish.) We head down for lunch and 

walk on the estate of Cragside House, the first 

house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity. We 

return to Alnwick for our farewell dinner. 

Overnight: Alnwick, The White Swan Hotel 

The Wayfarers will transfer you to Alnmouth 

Rail Station for departure and onward connections. 

* Puffins are on the island in the summer only. 

We return to the mainland for our morning 

walk along one of Britain’s best beaches followed by 

lunch in the charming village of Bamburgh Castle. In the 

afternoon, we take a boat trip to the Farne Islands, an 

archipelago of international significance for breeding and 

migrating birds. We land at Inner Farne to meet the 

Puffin 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Arrival: Berwick Rail Station 

Departure: Alnmouth Rail Station 

Terrain: Gentle coastal paths, beaches, 

woodlands, well-defined moorland 

paths, modest hills. 




Fishing Massage/Spa Golf Swimming 





2016 Dates: 

June 26 - July 2, 

September 11-17

England 

Al Ludwick 

Coast to Coast 

• Irish Sea to North Sea Walk across the 

neck of England 

• Covers 85 miles and 3 national parks 

in 6 days 

• Lake District National Park 

• Yorkshire Dales National Park 

• North York Moors National Park 


Rendezvous at our hotel near Grange-over- 

Sands for an Introductory Talk and Welcome Dinner. 

Overnight: Grange-over-Sands, Netherwood Hotel 

We walk the wild and unspoiled landscape 

of The Lake District National Park. From Beacon 

Tarn we have a view of the 'Old Man', a rocky 

outcrop towering 3,000 feet over Lake Coniston. 

After lunch we walk along the shores of the lake 

with views of Brantwood where John Ruskin lived 

from 1872 until 1900. We end our day at our lovely 

hotel in Grasmere. 

Overnight: Grasmere, Rothay Garden Hotel 

Our morning walk takes us past Dove 

Cottage and Rydal Mount, both former homes of the 

poet William Wordsworth. Overlooking Windermere, 

England's largest lake, we enjoy softer, more 

Across The Lake District 

and Yorkshire Dales 

to the sea 

pastoral scenery. After lunch our walk continues 

across fields, pastures, and hillside farms. We pause 

for a last look at the distant mountains of Cumbria, 

say farewell to Windermere, and walk on to Crook. 

Bowness-on-Windermere, Lindeth Howe Hotel 

From Aysgarth, our walk in The Yorkshire 

Dales National Park encompasses the contrasts of 

waterfalls and rock-sided valleys with agrarian landscapes 

and the massive Penn Hill. We have great 

views of Bolton Castle where Mary, Queen of Scots, 

was held on her way to London and her execution. 

This afternoon, we walk in beautiful Wensleydale, 

famous for its cheese, past Middleham Castle (once 

home to King Richard III), finally crossing the river 

on stepping-stones as we approach our day's rest in 

East Witton. 

Overnight: East Witton, The Blue Lion Hotel 

Now in the 

heart of James Herriot 

country, we walk up to 

Witton Fell, a wild 

heather-covered moor 

where grouse and 

plover thrive. At lunch, we may choose 

to sample the eponymous brew in the 

famous Black Sheep Brewery in Masham. 

Then the tranquil bank of the River Ure, 

where we might spot a kingfisher, leads us 

to our magnificent hotel at Swinton Park. 

Overnight: Masham, Swinton Park Hotel 

We cross the Vale of York to North Yorkshire 

Moors National Park with chances to identify the many 

birds and wildflowers on the slopes of Arden Great Moor. 

We visit the great Abbey of Rievaulx and follow the monks 

trail into the picturesque market town of Helmsley, where 

the castle was a Royalist stronghold during the Civil War, 

for dinner and overnight. 

Overnight: Helmsley, The Black Swan Hotel 

We take the steam-hauled North Yorkshire Moors 

Railway to Goathland, before our hike to the picturesque 

village of Aislaby. We continue into Eskdale where we 

follow the Esk Valley to complete our journey to the North 

Sea with a celebratory drink on the beach at Sandsend, near 

Whitby, and our Farewell Dinner in Dunsley. 

Overnight: Whitby, Raithwaite Hall 

After breakfast, The Wayfarers will transfer you from 

your hotel by private bus to Darlington Railway Station 

(journey time approx 1hr 15mins), 

arriving by 10am. 

Arrival: Grange-over-Sands Rail Station 

Departure: Darlington Rail Station 

Terrain: Well laid out pathways through 

three national parks, some brisk hills 

with walks along hillsides, bluffs and valleys. 


(Walk rating is due to long mileage - 

not arduous trails.) 


Optional 

Massage/Spa 

Opportunities 

Swimming 





2016 Dates: 

June 11-18, September 17-24, 

October 8-15, 

Begg Hofer 

19

England 

• Visit Hidcote Manor Gardens, one 

of the world’s finest 

• Stroll over gently rolling hills and 

through honey-stone villages 

• Visit magnificent Blenheim Palace 

• Working sheepdog demonstration 

by local farmer 

• Tour Hook Norton Brewery and 

sample fine ale 

The Cotswolds 

After our rendezvous in 

Moreton-in-Marsh, we meet in 

Chipping Campden, a charming and 

unspoilt Cotswold town, for our 

Welcome Dinner and Introductory Talk. 

Overnight: Chipping Campden, 

Cotswold House Hotel 

We meander through the quintessentially 

Cotswold honey-toned stone villages of Broad Campden, 

Blockley to arrive at Lord Dulverton's Batsford House, 

once home to the infamous Mitford sisters. From the 

Arboretum we visit the Birds of Prey Centre where we 

watch owls, falcons and eagles put through their paces. 

After lunch we continue walking through this charming 

countryside towards our hotel. 

Overnight: Chipping Campden, Cotswold House Hotel 

Today's walk takes us through the gently rolling 

hills to reach the famous Hidcote Manor Gardens, created 

by the American Lawrence Johnson almost 100 years ago. 

Here at the gardens, generally recognized as one of the 

world's greatest, we can stroll through the 19 'outdoor 

rooms' which make up this vast garden. We will be 

greeted by a local TV and radio garden expert who will 

answer any of your gardening questions. We continue 

with an afternooon walk to our next hotel for dinner 

and overnight in Stow-on-the-Wold. 

Overnight: Stow-on-the-Wold, The Grapevine Hotel 

Broadway Tower 

sheep dog. After a pub lunch we continue our walk 

across the gentle hills (wolds), punctuated with drystone 

walls enclosing the pastures, back to our hotel 

for dinner. 

Overnight: Stow-on-the-Wold, The Grapevine Hotel 

We walk to Chastleton House. This rare gem 

of a Jacobean country house was owned by the same 

family until 1991 and has been unchanged for 400 

years. It has two Victorian croquet lawns and is 

regarded as the birthplace of competitive croquet. 

After a pub lunch we visit the mysterious, ancient 

Rollright Stones, the focus of many supernatural tales, 

before walking on to the Victorian family brewery of 

Hook Norton to sample award winning ale. 

Overnight: Woodstock, Macdonald Bear Hotel 

Quintessential England 

We set out through the historic village of 

Woodstock, visiting Chaucer’s House where Thomas 

Chaucer, son of the poet Geoffrey lived, then to 

Bladon, resting place of Sir Winston Churchill. We 

walk through the magnificent grounds of Blenheim 

Palace and have a tour of the Palace itself, home of 

the Churchill family and one of the most imposing 

buildings in England, before returning to our hotel 

for our Farewell Dinner. 

Overnight: Woodstock, 

Macdonald Bear Hotel 

The Wayfarers 

provide transport to 

Oxford Rail Station for 

onward connections. 

We walk through pretty Upper and Lower 

Slaughter. Their names are from the old word for the 

stream that links the two picture-postcard villages, rather 

than referring to any great massacre! A local farmer tells 

us about Cotswold farming and introduces us to his 

The old kitchen of Chastleton House 


Optional 

Opportunities 

20 

Arrival: Moreton-in-Marsh Rail Station 

Departure: Oxford Rail and Bus Stations 

Terrain: Stroll through countryside, gardens, 

pretty villages and historic footpaths with 

rights-of-way over meadows and fields. 



Antique Shopping Golf Horseback riding 





2016 Dates: 

May 22-28, 

September 25 - October 1

Jane Austen 

Country 

Insiders’ guide to 

Jane’s family life 

England 

• Guided tour of Jane’s cottage, now 

the Jane Austen House Museum 

• Private dinner at Chawton House, 

a mansion owned by her brother 

Edward 

• Visit the homes of Austen family 

friends 

• Secrets of ladies’ corsets and clothing 

revealed by Regency expert 

• Visit to Selborne, home of 18th-century 

naturalist Gilbert White 

St. Nicholas Church, Chawton 

sister Cassandra and we visit her cottage, 

now the Jane Austen House Museum. 

Overnight: Petersfield, 

Langrish House Hotel 

After arriving at Basingstoke, we rendez vous 

at Oakley Hall, an elegant 18th-century manor 

house hotel in the village of Oakley. Former owners 

of the house, the Bramstons, were good friends of 

the Austen family, who lived nearby. It is suggested 

that Jane Austen’s novel ‘Mansfield Park’ is based 

on Oakley Hall and that Lady Bertram was based on 

Mrs Bramston. 

Overnight: Oakley, Oakley Hall Hotel 

Our first walk takes us to Steventon where 

Jane spent her first 25 years. We see the homes of 

some of the Austen family’s closest friends 

including Deane House and Ashe House. After a 

pub lunch, we visit the church where Jane’s eldest 

brother, James, was vicar and then we visit inside 

The Vyne, a mansion 

Hulton Archive , Getty Images 

built in the 16th Century and visited by Henry VIII 

on at least three occasions. Before dinner, we have 

a fascinating talk from a Regency clothing expert 

who will reveal secrets of corsetry and ladies’ 

costumes in Jane Austen's era. 

Overnight: Oakley, Oakley Hall Hotel 

We set off for the pretty village of 

Chawton where Jane moved in 1809. Our circular 

walk takes us along paths familiar to Jane and her 

Today our walk focuses on the pretty village of 

Selborne the former home of the 18th-century naturalist 

Gilbert White, who was a fellow clergyman and contemporary 

of Jane’s father. Our morning and afternoon walks take 

us through one of Hampshire's famous ‘Hangers’, beautiful 

beech-clad chalk hills. After lunch we visit White’s house 

and extensive garden before resuming our walk. In the 

evening we enjoy a private dinner at historic Chawton 

House, inherited by Jane’s brother Edward. 

Overnight: Petersfield, Langrish House Hotel 

We start our day strolling through Chawton 

Woods, a favourite haunt of Jane and her sister Cassandra, 

towards Fourmarks Station where we board the restored 

steam train on the Watercress line. We have lunch in the 

village of Tichborne in a local coaching inn, and then our 

walk follows a beautiful river path towards Winchester. 

Overnight: Petersfield, Langrish House Hotel 

We walk in historic Winchester, capital of King Alfred’s 

Wessex. When we arrive at the Hospital of St Cross, 

England’s oldest and most perfect Almshouse, we will 

receive the Wayfarers’ Dole, a unique and ancient tradition 

established almost 1,000 years ago. One of the Brothers will 

show us round the medieval and Tudor buildings. In the 

afternoon we visit the Cathedral where Jane is buried. 

Overnight: Winchester, Lainston House Hotel 

Chawton House 

Optional 

Opportunities 

After breakfast The Wayfarers transfers you to 

Winchester Rail Station. 


Golf 

Arrival: Basingstoke Rail Station 

Departure: Winchester Rail Station 

Terrain: Country byways, well-trodden 

footpaths, village lanes, low hills. 

6-10 miles of walking per day. 






2016 Dates: 

May 8-14 

21

England 

• Experience the elegance of living 

in a castle for six nights 

• Exclusive stay for The Wayfarers 

only 

• Explore the landscape and 

history of Dartmoor National 

Park 

• Spectacular walking on the banks 

of the River Tamar 

• Visit Sir Francis Drake’s home and 

Plymouth harbor, where the 

Pilgrim Fathers set sail 

Pentillie Castle 

Live like a Lord 

in a private castle 

We rendezvous in Plymouth 

for a walking tour of this proud 

maritime city. We will see the Mayflower Steps where 

the Pilgrim Fathers embarked for the US, and The Hoe, 

where Sir Francis Drake was playing bowls when the 

Spanish Armada was sighted. We transfer to Pentillie 

Castle, our home for the next six nights where, in the 

early evening, we meet for drinks on the terrace overlooking 

the Tamar River, before an Introductory Talk 

and Welcome Dinner. 

Today’s highlight is a visit to Cotehele, a 

wonderful Tudor house with many stories and legends, 

festooned with tapestries and adorned with textiles, 

arms and armor, pewter, brass and old oak furniture. It’s 

a magical experience as little has changed over the 

years. Outside, we wander through the formally planted 

terraces and the Valley Garden, which includes a 

medieval stewpond and dovecote. We can climb the 

18th-century Prospect Tower folly, with fantastic views. 

Cotehele Quay is the home of the restored Tamar sailing 

barge 'Shamrock'. We return to Pentillie before going 

out to a local restaurant for dinner. 

Today, we depart by private ferry (tide and 

weather permitting) for a day on Rame Head. We visit 

Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, an 865-acre coastal 

estate designed by Sir Richard Edgcumbe of Cotehele in 

1547-53. Ancient and rare trees include a 400-year-old 

lime, a splendid Lucombe oak, and many others set 

amid classical garden buildings with spectacular views 

across Plymouth Sound. After lunch at the Edgcumbe 

Arms, we walk along the coastal footpath to the ancient 

villages of Kingsand and Cawsand. We return to 

Pentillie for Dinner. 

A day on Dartmoor, where landscape and 

history have inspired stories from ‘Sherlock Holmes’ 

and ‘The Hound of the Basker villes’ to ‘War Horse’. 

Joined by Dr Tom Greeves, a cultural environmentalist, 

we walk to Ditsworthy Warren and see locations 

Steven Spielberg used in the movie, including 

the Narracott farmhouse and the field where Joey 

learned to plow. We explore prehistoric stone rows 

and barrows, medieval farm ruins and old tin workings, 

and learn about the folklore, farming and 

unique way of life of Dartmoor. After lunch in a traditional 

Dartmoor pub we visit the historic town of 

Tavistock, birthplace of Sir Francis Drake. 

(Optional Extra: Horseback riding on Dartmoor.) 

We start the day with an exploration of Kit 

Hill with sensational views over the Tamar Valley, 

once a hive of mining activity. Later it became wellknown 

for market gardening with apples, cherries, 

strawberries and fresh flowers sent by rail to Covent 

Garden in London. We walk along the Cornish side of 

the Tamar, crossing it by a bridge built in 1437, for 

lunch on the Devon side. In the afternoon we visit the 

country estate of the Duke of Bedford, with gardens 

and landscape designed by Sir Humphrey Repton. In 

the evening we dine out at a popular local hostelry. 

We take the scenic train from Gunnislake, over 

the great viaduct above Calstock, down the 

peninsula to Bere Ferrers. We will walk along the Tavy 

estuary, where we may see avocet and curlew on the 

mudflats, to the 16th-century Who’d Have Thought It 

Inn (voted one of the 50 best pubs in Britain). After 

lunch, we visit Buckland Abbey, home of Sir Francis 

Drake, the intrepid sailor who circumnavigated the 

globe in the 16th century. Once a Cistercian 

Monastery, the Abbey now tells the story of two 

seafaring adventurers – Sir Richard Grenville and 

Drake himself. We return to Pentillie Castle for our 

Farewell Dinner. 

The Wayfarers transfer you to Plymouth for 

your onward or homebound travels. 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Arrival: Plymouth 

Departure: Plymouth 

Terrain: Pastoral countryside, coastal 

footpaths, estuaries, woodlands, wild 

uplands and open moorland. 

Some hills. 3 - 9 miles walking per day, 

with options for more or less. 


Dale Brown 

Fishing 

From US$ 4,195 per person 

(From US$ 3,985 Wayfarers’ Friends) 

(From US$ 695 Single Supplement) 


2016 Dates: 

October 16-22 

Golf Horseback Riding Market 

Swimming

Victorian splendor and 

megalithic monuments 

Julie Vanek 

England 

• Castle Combe and Lacock, two of 

England’s loveliest villages 

• The stone circles at Avebury, a 

UNESCO World Heritage Site 

• The House and Gardens at Bowood 

House 

• A tour of Highclere Castle 

(TV’s ‘Downton Abbey’) 

• Bampton village, a key location 

in ‘Downton Abbey’ 

‘Downton Abbey’ 

Highclere Castle 

We meet for our Welcome Talk and Dinner 

at our lovely hotel in Oxfordshire. 

Overnight: Clanfield, The Plough Hotel 

After a morning stroll along the river, we 

board a boat to take us to lunch at The Trout at 

Tadpole Bridge, a wonderfully peaceful setting. In 

the afternoon, we wander around the village of 

Bampton, where both the village library (the 

hospital in the drama) and the church frequently 

feature as backdrops, and Matthew's mother’s house 

is the attractive Churgate House. This evening, an 

author joins us evoking the era of ‘Downton Abbey’ 

and talking about country house life from the 

servants' perspective. 

Overnight: Clanfield, The Plough Hotel 

This morning's walk takes us to Avebury, 

with its Neolithic henge containing three stone 

circles. Unique amongst megalithic monuments, 

Avebury contains the largest stone circle in Europe 

and is one of the foremost prehistoric sites in 

Britain. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the 

afternoon, we continue our walk past one of the 

famous Wiltshire White Horses carved into the hillside 

before reaching our hotel in Marlborough. We 

have dinner in a private house near Marlborough 

College, alma mater of the Duchess of Cambridge 

(Kate Middleton), and near the site of Jane Seymour's 

Wolf Hall on the edge of Savernake Forest. 

Overnight: Ramsbury, The Bell Hotel 

Today we visit ‘Downton Abbey’! In 

reality, this is Highclere Castle, the home of the Earl 

and Countess of Carnarvon. Our morning walk takes 

us along local footpaths and within the private 

estate before we stop for a country pub 

lunch. Our afternoon 

highlight is a visit 

inside the castle itself, seeing 

the actual rooms where the series is filmed. 

Overnight: Castle Combe, Manor House Hotel 

This morning we walk to the impressive Bowood 

House, the family home of the Marquis and Marchioness of 

Lansdowne, for a look inside the house and a special guided 

tour around the private walled gardens, all set in 100 acres of 

stunning parkland laid out by Capability Brown. After lunch 

there, we continue to Lacock where we walk around the 

beautiful village, mostly owned by the National Trust, and 

featured in the BBC’s ‘Cranford’, ‘Pride and Prejudice’ and the 

Harry Potter movies. 


We explore picturesque Castle Combe, often called the 

Prettiest Village in England; this idyllic spot has starred in 

many movies from ‘Doctor Doolittle’ in 1966 to ‘War Horse’ in 

2010. We then walk in the charming Cotswold countryside 

surrounding Castle Combe before returning to our hotel for 

our Farewell Dinner. 


The Wayfarers provides a courtesy transfer to 

Chippenham rail station. 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Golf 

Tennis 

Biking 

Fishing 

Falconry 

Arrival: Oxford Rail Station 

Departure: Chippenham Rail Station 

Terrain: Country byways, well-trodden 

footpaths, village lanes, low hills. 







2016 Dates: 

July 17-23 

Roy Robinson 

23

England 

• Open landscape of green and 

rolling dales 

• Traditional pub lunch in James 

Herriot’s ‘Darrowby’ 

• Private tour of Castle Bolton 

where Mary, Queen of Scots was 

imprisoned 

• Private tour of Parcevall Hall 

Gardens with the Head Gardener 

• See racehorses training on the 

moor 

We rendezvous at Harrogate 

Railway Station and transfer to 

Burnsall in the heart of the Yorkshire 

Dales. Meet The Wayfarers for a 


Overnight: Devonshire Fell Hotel 

We walk from our hotel, passing the haunted 

ruins of Barden Tower, to the remains of Bolton Abbey 

and lunch on the estate. This afternoon we walk 

beneath the summit of the fabled Simon's Seat. Our day 

ends with a private tour by the head gardener of 

Parcevall Hall Gardens followed by a short walk back to 

our hotel. 

Overnight: Devonshire Fell Hotel 

Our walk crosses Upper Wharfedale, visiting 

charming unspoilt villages, to enjoy both sides of this 

pastoral valley. We lunch at an ancient drovers’ pub. 

Our afternoon walk takes us to Hubberholme, the final 

resting place of the English novelist and playwright J B 

Priestley. We continue along Fairy Glen to the tiny 

hamlet of Cray and our transfer back to our hotel in 

West Witton, Wensleydale. 

Overnight: Wensleydale Heifer Hotel 

Yorkshire 

JMW Turner and lunch at vet James Herriot's favorite pub 

in Askrigg. Our afternoon walk continues along the banks 

of the River Ure to our hotel. 

Overnight: Simonstone Hall 

From our hotel we follow the Pennine Way to see 

water cascading down England's longest single drop 

waterfall at Hardraw Force. We lunch at a teashop overlooking 

a traditional village green complete with ancient 

wooden stocks! In the afternoon, a Roman road leads us 

to Semerwater, the only lake in the Yorkshire Dales, and 

ends in the bustling market town of Hawes where we 

taste the famous, local Wensleydale cheese. 

Overnight: Simonstone Hall 

Morning transfer to Darlington Rail Station for 

departure and onward connections. 

The Fells and Dales 

of James Herriot country 


Checking out some of England's best racehorses 


24 

Over the moor to Middleham to catch a 

glimpse of England's best racehorses in training. Our 

lunch is in the historic village of Middleham, once 

home to King Richard III, followed by a short heritage 

railway journey along Wensleydale (subject to operating 

timetable). The walk leads us to the magnificent Castle 

Bolton, where Mary Queen of Scots was held prisoner, 

for a private tour. We return to our hotel for dinner. 

Overnight: Wensleydale Heifer Hotel 

We walk from the hotel to discover the ruins 

left by the Knights Templar who held vast tracts of land 

in Wensleydale. We walk by the famous Aysgarth 

Waterfalls painted by the English landscape painter 


Arrival: Harrogate Rail Station 

Departure: Darlington Rail Station 

Terrain: Pastoral countryside, woodland, 

riverbanks, valley walking, village lanes 

and well-defined moorland paths. 

Some hills. 9-12 miles walking per day. 


Optional 

Fishing Golf Horseback riding 





2016 Dates: 

May 15-21, 

October 9-15 

Opportunities

Wales 

Pamela Petro 

Pembrokeshire 

Coast 

The Wild Coast of Wales 


• Visit ancient sacred sites, Pagan and 

Christian 

• Enjoy an evening of poetry with the 

National Poet of Wales 

• Breathtaking coastal scenery 

• Insight into Welsh history, culture and 

language 

• See historic St Davids, Britain’s 

smallest cathedral city 


We rendezvous at Haverfordwest Rail 

Station and drive to our hotel near St Davids for our 

Introductory Talk and Welcome Dinner. 

Overnight: St Davids, Warpool Court 

From our hotel we walk beside the sea 

along a medieval pilgrimage trail and visit the 

Chapel and Holy Well of St Non, the mother of 

St David. We continue to lunch in 

St Davids, the smallest city in Britain (pop: 1,800), 

followed by a visit to the cathedral and Bishop’s 

Palace. We walk out to dinner in a local restaurant. 

Overnight: St Davids, Warpool Court 

St Davids Cathedral 

We continue along the coastal path 

enjoying one of its most beautiful stretches, passing 

a blue lagoon and attractive fishing villages. We 

finish at Melin Tregwynt, a whitewashed woollen 

mill in a remote wooded valley, where there has 

been a mill since the 1600s when local farmers 

would bring their fleeces to be spun into yarn and 

woven into fine Welsh wool blankets. We continue 

to our hotel in Wolfscastle. 

Overnight: Wolfscastle Country Hotel 

Today we walk in the Preseli Hills; wild 

mysterious, rolling moors roamed by sheep and 

Welsh ponies, and home to ancient 

myths and the bluestones from 

which Stonehenge was built. How 

they were transported to 

Wiltshire, 180 miles away before 

the invention of the wheel 

remains one of the great 

mysteries of British history. After 

lunch we drive to Nevern Church 

with its famous 10th-century 

cross and 600-year-old bleeding 

yew. We also visit Pentre Ifan, one 

of the finest Stone Age megalithic 

sites in Britain, dating from 3500 

BC. We return to our hotel for one 

of the highlights of the week - a 

Optional 

Opportunities 

talk and reading from Gillian 

Clarke, National Poet of Wales, 

who then joins us for dinner. 

Overnight: Wolfscastle 

Country Hotel 

Today we walk out of our 

hotel through the deep wooded Treffgarne 

Gorge which cuts through some of the oldest 

rocks in the country, created around 1,000 million 

years ago. We enjoy splendid views across the valley 

to the Treffgarne Rocks with their grotesque shapes. 

After lunch we drive to Tenby, a fashionable watering 

place in the 19th Century with a 13th-century castle and 

historic town walls. We end our afternoon with a transfer to 

our luxury country hotel in Narbeth. 

Overnight: Narbeth, The Grove 

We return to the coast and walk from Freshwater East 

(a film location for the Harry Potter movies) to Bosherston 

via the impressive Stackpole Head. After our pub lunch, we 

head back to our hotel, skirting the lily ponds created 200 

years ago by the Campbells of Cawdor, for our Farewell 

Dinner in the hotel's highly acclaimed restaurant. 

Overnight: Narbeth, The Grove 

After breakfast, The Wayfarers will transfer you to 

Whitland Rail Station for your onward travel. 

Pentre Ifan 


Golf 

Tennis 

Arrival: Haverfordwest 

Departure: Whitland Rail Station 

Terrain: Coastal paths, riverbank 

and estuary trails, undulations of 

150-250 feet. 







2016 Dates: 

September 4-10 

25

Scotland 

• Callanish standing stones on 

Lewis, rivalling Stonehenge in 

importance 

• Visit the Harris Eagle Observatory 

• Learn about the history of the 

Macdonald clan on Skye 

• Enjoy an evening of traditional 

Scottish food and music 

• Stay in a 17th century former 

hunting lodge, still owned by the 

high chief of the Macdonald clan 

Outer Hebrides 

Skye, Lewis and Harris 

Rendezvous at Stornoway 

Airport or ferry. Welcome meeting and 

dinner at the hotel. 

Overnight: Borve, Borve House Hotel 

NEW 

We head out towards the dramatic extremity 

of Lewis and walk to the lighthouse, with lunch at the 

Ness Historical Society. We walk on past the attractive 

little port of Ness to the remains of an iron- age fort and 

take tea and local cake in a cafe overlooking the little 

harbor. This evening – supper and singing! 

Overnight: Borve, Borve House Hotel 

We explore the standing stones of Callanish - 

one of the most important prehistoric sites in the UK 

and through the wonderful hills, glens and lochs of 

Harris. Over lunch, we learn all about golden eagles and 

visit the Eagle Observatory to watch these magnificent 

birds soaring over the ridges on either side of the glen. 

Overnight: Tarbert, Harris Hotel 

Scalpay Coast, Harris 

Direacleit, from where we can see our ferry arrive. 

We lunch on board the ferry and on arrival drive to 

Portree with its multi-colored houses and bustling 

port. We walk a coastal circuit with extensive views 

of the harbor finishing with a Cream Tea. An hour's 

drive through the Cuillin Hills brings us to our hotel 

in the fertile “Garden of Skye”. 

Overnight: Skye, Kinloch Lodge 

We walk from our hotel with stunning views 

of the Sound of Sleat. We see another abandoned 

village, this one cleared by an ancestor of the 

Macdonalds. After lunch on the promontory of 

Portree harbor 

Oransay, we explore the gardens surrounding the 

ruins of Armadale Castle. The Castle was once home 

to the Macdonalds, chiefs and Flora Macdonald, who 

helped Bonnie Prince Charlie escape to Skye, was 

married here in 1790. There is a fascinating museum, 

documenting 1500 years of history, culture and 

bloody battles. We return to our hotel for our 


Overnight: Skye, Kinloch Lodge 

Time to bid farewell to the Western Isles. 

The Wayfarers will transfer you to Mallaig with 

connections to Fort William and Glasgow. 

Today we enjoy a walk of extremes: from the 

wild barren rock of the east to the fertile machair and 

white sands of the west, following the Coffin Trail with 

views over the white beaches fringed with fields of 

wild flowers. We will lunch in the Harris community 

centre where locals hold ceilidhs. 

Overnight: Tarbert, Harris Hotel 

Over the sea to Skye, 

but not before we hike to 

discover a small loch 

and the abandoned 

village of 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Arrival: Stornoway 

Departure: Mallaig 

Terrain: Gentle hill walking, woodland 

tracks, well laid trails. Options for more 

or less vigorous walking. Likely strong winds 

at times and damp under foot. Waterproof 

boots and wet weather gear essential. 




Fishing 





2016 Dates: 

May 29 - June 4F, 

June 26 - July 2 

Golf 

F = Founders’ Walk

Scotland 

The Highlands 

Rendezvous in Inverness and a guided 

walking tour of Culloden Battlefield. We learn about 

the struggle between the Highland Clans and British 

Government rule, which pitted father against son 

and ended in what was tantamount to civil war. We 

visit the Clava Cairns, an Iron Age burial site with 

standing stones, en route to our first hotel in 

Cairngorm for our Welcome Talk and Dinner. 

Overnight: Cairngorm, Muckrach Country House Hotel 

This morning we transfer to the Cairngorm 

Mountains, travelling through one of the few 

remaining areas of Caledonian pine forest and now 

part of a National Park much loved by locals and 

visitors alike for its wildlife and outdoor pursuits. If 

Arrival: Inverness 

Departure: Edinburgh 

Terrain: Gentle hill walking, 

woodland tracks, well laid trails. 

Options for more or less vigorous 

walking. 8-12 miles walking per day. 


Blair Castle 

weather permits, we take a funicular from the 

Cairngorm base station to the Ptarmigan top station. 

(Those who would like, may make the hike on foot.) 

We walk to the summit with a mountain guide to 

learn about the local ecology. Our afternoon walk 

offers the chance to enjoy the woodlands, lochs and 

trails of Glenmore. 

Overnight: Cairngorm, Muckrach Country House Hotel 

We transfer to Glen Tilt and walk to Blair 

Castle, the ancestral home of the Dukes and Earls of 

Atholl. We have lunch and then a tour of the 740- 

year-old castle and grounds, in the midst of one of 

the most spectacular settings of Highland 

Perthshire. We arrive to a warm welcome at 

Optional 

Serene Lochs, 

majestic mountains 

and Royal Edinburgh 

Opportunities 

Horseback Canoeing/Kayaking Fishing Golf Antique Shopping 

Riding 





2016 Dates: 

September 25 - October 1 

Killiecrankie House Hotel, our base for 

the next three nights. 

Overnight: Killiecrankie, 

Killiecrankie House Hotel 

We walk from our hotel along 

the hillside past the golf course to the 

tiny village of Moulin, nestling in the 

hills above the town of Pitlochry. From 

there we walk past the ruins of 14thcentury 

Black Castle to admire the Black Spout waterfall 

then descend through the woods through Pitlochry for 

lunch. We walk up the River Tummel, crossing the huge 

hydroelectric dam. Passing Loch Faskally the walk continues 

up the River Garry and ends at a spot below the hotel near 

the site of the Battle of Killiecrankie. We return to 

Killiecrankie House for dinner and overnight. 

Overnight: Killiecrankie, Killiecrankie House Hotel 

Today our walking takes us to the Dunkeld area 

through a landscape planted by the Dukes of Atholl with a 

romantic viewing gallery over the River Braan. We see the 

remains of an ancient forest including the Birnam Oak, so 

memorable for Shakespeare that he wrote it into ‘Macbeth’. 

We visit Dunkeld Cathedral and end with a walk in the hills 

above the village where ospreys can sometimes be seen. You 

can choose to take time out to explore this delightful village. 

Overnight: Killiecrankie, Killiecrankie House Hotel 

Roy Robinson 

We leave Killicrankie for our final destination - 

Edinburgh. With Morag Dunbar, our Walk Manager and 

Scottish Blue Badge Guide, we explore Calton Hill for beautiful 

views of the city, descending by secluded pathways 

into the historic Old Town of Edinburgh, enjoying some of 

the hidden surprises of the Royal Mile with lunch near 

Holyrood Park. The afternoon concludes with an 

invigorating walk up Arthur’s Seat to enjoy the most 

dramatic 360 degree views or, alternatively, the chance 

to do some independent sightseeing. In the 

evening we gather at the hotel to walk to a 

private Whisky Club to enjoy a Single Malt 

whisky tasting and Farewell Dinner. 

Overnight: Edinburgh, The George Hotel 

Our Edinburgh Hotel is 

centrally located near the 

train station and 

conveniently 

placed for 

airport coach transfers. 

• Walk in Cairngorm National Park, 

jewel of the highlands 

• Walking tour of Culloden Battle field 

• Visit 750-year-old Blair Castle 

• Whisky tasting 

• Walking tour of the historic Old Town 

of Edinburgh 

27

Northern Ireland 

• Tour of Belfast and insight into 

The Troubles 

• Spectacular coastal walking to 

The Giant’s Causeway 

• Ferry trip to wild Rathlin Island 

• Walk the historic Walls of 

Londonderry 

• Visit the Famine Folk Museum 

Historic cities, 

spectacular glens, 

wild coasts 

Rendezvous in Belfast for a 

poignant black taxi tour of the town. 

For many years visitors avoided 

Northern Ireland until the Good 

Friday Agreement in 1998. We see the 

memorial plots and the peace walls of 

Shanklin and the Falls and hear some 

first hand accounts from people who lived through The 

Troubles. After our tour of Belfast, we take a private 

transfer to our hotel. 

Overnight: Ballygally, Ballygally Castle Hotel 

We walk with splendid views of Scotland 

across the sea, down into Glenarm, one of the nine 

Glens of Antrim. We continue to the private Glenarm 

Castle with its beautiful park, home to the Earls of 

Antrim. We take lunch in the castle's gardens and enjoy 

a walk through the Earl's private garden and estate. 

Overnight: Ballygally, Ballygally Castle Hotel 

We drive to the Queen of Glens described as 

‘Switzerland in Miniature’ to explore the most dramatic 

Belfast 


of the nine Glens of Antrim, Glenariff. We pass waterfalls, 

gorges and woodland and continue to the 

famous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge hanging precariously 

over an 80-foot chasm (crossing it is optional!) 

Then we head to the tiny, harbor village of Ballintoy 

and walk along the water's edge of the glorious sandy 

beach at White Park Bay. 

Overnight: Bushmills, Bushmills Hotel 

We pick up our trail to Bally castle Bay 

where we take a ferry to fascinating Rathlin Island, 

eight miles off the coast towards Scotland. It is where 

Robert the Bruce retreated from Edward I 

(Longshanks) in 1306 and where, in 1898, Marconi 

made the world's first radio communication. 

Overnight: Bushmills, Bushmills Hotel 

We walk along a memorable stretch of 

coastline past the Giant's Causeway - the extraordinary 

geological phenomenon of 40,000 basalt 

columns. After lunch we walk the beautiful coastal 

surroundings of Downhill Demesne with spectacular 

views. We catch the ferry to the Inishowen Peninsula 

where our hotel is located in the coastal village of 

Ballyliffin. 

Overnight: Ballyliffin, Ballyliffin Town House 

cottages and real life exhibits. The tour provides a 

wealth of information about Irish emigration to the 

Americas, Australia and elsewhere. After lunch, we 

drive to London derry, the only remaining walled city 

in Ireland and the finest example of its type in all of 

Europe, before returning to our hotel for our Farewell 

Dinner. 

Overnight: Ballyliffin, Ballyliffin Town House 

Transfer to Belfast Inter national Airport for 


We walk to Doagh Island and visit the Famine 

Folk Museum with its genuine 19th-century thatched 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Golf 



28 

Arrival: Belfast 

Departure: Belfast 

Terrain: Spectacular 

coastal paths, unspoiled 

moorland, some hills. 







2016 Dates: 

June 12-18, 


Enjoy the Full 

Emerald Isle 

Experience: 

Book the 

whole 

journey!

The Ring of Kerry 

Dingle Peninsula 

and Celtic history 

Ireland 

• Pub evening of traditional Irish music 

and dance 

• See a Druids’ stone circle and mystic 

Ogham Stone 

• Ride by horse and cart to the 

Torc Falls 

• Sample local cheese at a remote farmhouse 

• Watch a sheep dog at work 

Al Ludwick 

Meet The Wayfarers in Killarney for a 


Overnight: Killarney, Randles Court 

Walk along forest and lakeside trails 

leading to the ruins of a Franciscan abbey, scene of 

secret midnight weddings in Elizabethan times, 

followed by lunch in the grounds of Muckross 

House and Park. After crossing the famous lakes of 

Killarney by boat, we take a horse and cart ride to 

the spectacular Torc Falls and walk a 16th-century 

track to the lively little town of Kenmare. Optional 

afternoon guided tour of Muckross House. 

Overnight: Kenmare, Park Hotel 

Cromwell's Bridge 

We follow the remote Beara Way for views 

of the Kenmare Estuary and the peaks of 

McGillycuddys Reeks. A country lane passes a 

Druids' stone circle leading to a lakeside inn where 

we enjoy a traditional Irish lunch. We continue 

along country lanes to a remote farmhouse to 

sample the delicious local cheeses, followed by an 

evening of traditional music and dancing. 

Overnight: Kenmare, Park Hotel 

We begin at the 2,000-year-old Staigue Fort 

where we learn about Celtic folklore and follow the 

Kerry Way to enjoy Atlantic Ocean vistas. We 

continue across pastures and lanes, pausing to 

examine the ancient 

Celtic writings on an 

Ogham Stone, then 

crossing the white sands 

of Derrynane Bay to visit the 

home of Irish patriot Daniel O'Connell. 

Overnight: Waterville, Butler Arms Hotel 

We follow an old track beside a stream to Dingle 

Bay with sweeping sea views to distant Mount Eagle. We 

rejoin the Kerry Way to Caragh Lake which, if the tide 

allows, we cross by fishing boat to land at the magnificent 

lakeside gardens of our hotel. 

Overnight: Caragh Lake, Carrig Country House 

We walk the gorse and heather-covered hills above 

Caragh Lake over to Blackstone Bridge where salmon fishermen 

gather. After lunch we meet a local farmer to discover 

how he cuts the turf for winter fuel and see his faithful 

sheepdog at work. We return to Caragh Lake for our 


Overnight: Caragh Lake, Carrig Country House 

The Wayfarers see you safely to Killarney Rail Station. 

Optional 

Opportunities 

than 1! >> 

Golf 

Fishing 


Water Sports 

Horseback riding 

Special Price 

US$ 8,150 

(per person 


occupancy) 


Arrival: Killarney 

Departure: Killarney Rail Station 

Terrain: Soft turf, narrow lanes 

and tracks, modest hills. 







2016 Dates: 

June 5-11, 


29

Ellen Barone 

Stephanie Martin Larry & Barb Hauser 

1 

Santiago 

de Compostela 

30

Ellen Barone 

3 

Caen 

Paris 

Rennes 

Strasbourg 

4 6 

France 

5 

Dijon 

Dale Brown 

Burgos 

2 

Avignon 

7 

Spain 

Madrid 

0 miles 200 

1 Camino de Santiago 

2 Pays Basque 

3 Brittany & Normandy 

4 Burgundy by Barge 

5 Burgundy 

6 Alsace 

7 Provence 

31

Testimonials 

Terry Krasinska 

you for providing such 

“Thank 

wonderful experiences. Each 

trip has been great. I hope the thirteenth 

is not too far away! 

Gaetan was just great. It was obvious he 

was enjoying the Walk as much as we 

were enjoying it. 

Antonia is a veteran and her experience 

was evident. She, too, was wonderful.” 

Holly P., Pays Basque 

“Both Eric and Antonia were charming, well 

informed and helpful. As a Walk Leader, 

Eric was highly energetic and encouragingdespite 

the long hills and descents. I 

believe we covered a lot of challenging 

territory, all full of beautiful, scenic 

surprises. Of course, I was always relieved 

to see the van and Antonia with refreshments 

as planned!” 

Elizabeth S., Pays Basque 


“A Wayfarers tour encompasses much 

more than just a “walk”. It combines 

history, culture, food, great walks and 

special people. 

When I am taking a Wayfarers tour, I do 

not know what day of the week it is. All of 

my needs are met/exceeded in a kind and 

efficient manner. A true vacation…” 

Lisa K., Pays Basque 

“I love Gaetan’s knowledge of WW1 and 

WW2 sites. Eric very vivacious and of 

course, totally organized.” 

Margot W., Alsace 

“Gaetan is a wonderful walk leader, 

conscientious, without being over 

solicitous. He chose beautiful trails for us, 

and gave us fine explanations about what 

we were seeing. Eric is exuberant and 

great fun. He chose charming restaurants, 

entertainments, superb food and wine. 

Hubert will make a great walk leader. He 

is caring and kind, and informative.” 

Sheila C., Alsace 

“The variety of scenery was quite a 

surprise. I thought it would be more 

pastoral from the photo in the brochure. 

It’s hard to give a preview of such diverse 

areas we visited. I enjoyed it so much.” 

Kathleen G., Pays Basque 

“I expect a great deal from the Wayfarers, 

and each trip still exceeds my expectations. 

Eric made a special effort to make sure 

I saw the Altarpiece in Colmar.” 


“I loved being your guest on my 13th walk.” 


“I am most convinced that Wayfarers is the 

best walking group there is.” 

Patricia R., Camino de Santiago 

“Gaetan and Antonia are the best-organized, 

always calm, good humored, and 

extend themselves so each person’s needs 

are met. Warm, intelligent, fun and funny.” 

Annette J., Brittany and Normandy 

32 


Life-affirming journey 

on the ancient 

Pilgrimage Route 

Spain 

• Experience of one of the world’s 

greatest journeys 

• Walk in the footsteps of ancient 

pilgrims on a 1,000-year-old route 

• Enjoy traditional Spanish culture 

away from the tourist beaches 

• Visit unspoiled medieval villages 

and serene chapels set amid 

peaceful hills 

• Celebrate Pilgrims’ Mass in the 

cathedral of Santiago de Compostela 

Vicki Bales 

Camino de Santiago 

Rendezvous in Burgos, the capital of Castile. 

We have time to wander the ancient streets before 

we meet for our Introductory Talk and Welcome 

Dinner. 

Overnight: Burgos, Hotel NH Palacio de la Merced 

We embark on our journey following the 

emblem of St James, the scallop shell. After a day 

both on foot and bus, we reach Leon, founded by 

the Roman Seventh Legion in 68 AD, to join the 

Walking into Castrojeriz 

locals in the traditional ‘paseo’ 

(evening stroll) before a Spanish 

style late dinner in our hotel. 

Overnight: Leon, 

Paradores Hostal de San Marcos (Parador Leon) 

We cross the longest pilgrim bridge in 

Spain and walk over undulating countryside to the 

ancient town of Astorga, where the Roman walls lie 

incongruously beside the medieval Cathedral and 

Gaudi’s eccentric Bishop’s Palace. We 

continue to the mountain village of 

Rabanal del Camino. 

Overnight: Rabanal del Camino, 

La Posada de Gaspar 

Elizabeth Austin 

Bierzo. Here we see the Puerta del 

Perdon, the ‘Door of Pardon’, at the 12thcentury 

church of Santiago. 

Overnight: Villafranca del Bierzo, 

Parador de Villafranca del Bierzo 

We wind our way beside mountain 

streams to the perfectly preserved hilltop village of 

O’Cebreiro with its oval stone huts. We pause by the 

pilgrims’ fountain in Triacastela, and after a short drive, we 

continue on foot along stonewalled lanes and our hotel in 

Portomarin. 

Overnight: Portomarin, Pousada de Portomarin 

We first glimpse the towers of Santiago. The excitement 

of reaching our goal increases as we walk into the old 

city and stand in wonder in the huge Praza de Obradoiro 

admiring the magnificent cathedral, the grand finale of our 

journey. 

Overnight: Santiago de Compostela, Parador de Santiago 

We journey to the Cruz de 

Hierro, which towers above a mountain of 

stones, each stone left by a passing 

pilgrim. After lunch, we walk over wildflower-scented 

slopes down to the village 

of Molinaseca, once a control point on the 

Roman Gold Road. 

Overnight: Molinaseca, Hotel Rural de Floriana 

We have time to explore this lovely old Baroque city 

before attending the noonday Pilgrim Mass in the cathedral. 

We say ‘hasta la vista’ at the airport of Santiago. 

Dramatic, lonely tracks lead 

to Ponferrada, with its 12th-century 

Templar Castle. After lunch, we 

continue to medieval Villafranca del 

Vicki Bales 

Arrival: Burgos 

Departure: Santiago de 

Compostela 

Terrain: Each day’s walk is 

between 5-6 hours, covering 

9-15 miles of easy to moderate walking per day. 

Our transport is at hand to help along the journey. 






2016 Dates: 

May 21-28 

Vicki Bales 

33

France • Spain 

• Untamed beauty of semi-wild 

landscape 

• Ancient, unique culture between 

France and Spain 

• Walking with the spectacular 

backdrop of the Pyrenees 

• Stay in an historic fortress with 

dramatic Atlantic Ocean views 

• Guided tasting at a museum of 

chocolate 

Rendezvous in dazzling 

Biarritz and make the short transfer to 

the lovely hilltop village of Aïnhoa, on 

the Spanish Border, for our Welcome 

Dinner. 

Overnight: Aïnhoa, Hotel Ithurria 

Walk to Sare, another traditional village. The 

trail traverses the typically hilly Basque countryside 

passing through forests, rivers and sheep meadows. 

After lunch in a colorful local restaurant, we climb the 

hillside of the iconic peak, La Rhune. We descend by 

foot for the transfer back to our hotel for wine tasting 

and dinner. 


Walking from our hotel, our route follows the 

climb and descent of a circular mountain path along 

the Spanish border. The scenery throughout the day is 

typically Basque with green grass, broom, sheep, ponies, 

vultures and wood pigeons. From the peak we admire 

the pano ramic view of Pays Basque, extending from the 

mountains to the sea. We end our day with dinner at 

the Michelin Star restaurant in the hotel. 


Pays Basque 

(historic building now restored as a Spanish hotel) in 

Hondarribia. 

Overnight: Hondarribia, Parador El Emperador 

After a stroll through the fortified city, we 

follow a pilgrimage trail. We walk down to the wild 

Spanish coastline which leads us to a fishing port for 

lunch. A coastal boat ride takes us back to Saint Jean 

de Luz where we have free time to enjoy the hotel 

facilities, including the exclusive Zen Spa, or shop in 

town before walking out to dinner. 

Overnight: St Jean de Luz, La Reserve 

We start our day by walking along the Atlantic 

seaboard before our visit to the chocolate museum 

where our 'maître chocolatier' will teach us all about 

this skilful art and allow us to indulge in a few divine 

Fort de Socoa 

Wild landscapes, 

sparkling coast and 

sophisticated resorts 

samples! We then walk to the famous resort of 

Biarritz created by Napoleon III for his wife, the 

Empress Eugenie. In the evening, we rendezvous in 

our hotel for our Farewell Dinner. 

Overnight: St Jean de Luz, La Reserve 

The Wayfarers see you safely on your way. Of 

course you may prefer to linger in Biarritz! 


After a short minibus transfer, we have time 

to explore the townscape of Saint Jean de Luz, visiting 

the church and the house where Louis XIV waited for 

his wedding to Maria-Teresa, Infanta of Spain, on June 9 

1660. We walk out from the town to our lunch in Socoa 

and then continue our walk along the coast of Abbadie. 

At Hendaye Port we take a boat ride across the River 

Bidassoa to Spain and a short walk to our Parador 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Arrival: Biarritz 

Departure: St Jean de Luz TGV Rail Station 

Terrain: Alpine and coastal trails 

with moderate climbs and steep 

descents, inviting village tracks. 



Water Sports Fishing Golf Horseback Riding 





2016 Dates: 

June 19-25, 

October 2-8

France 

D-Day Landings and 

Mont St Michel 

• Day-long tour of D-Day Landings site 

• Visit to the US cemetery 

• Overnight stay in Mont St Michel and 

tour of the famous abbey 

• Sample calvados, apple cider and 

icecream 

• See the Bayeux Tapestry 

Dick Dixon 

Brittany & Normandy 

Mont St Michel 

Rendezvous in Rennes, the capital of 

Brittany and drive to Dinan, a lovely medieval town 

surrounded by fortified walls. After a welcome 

aperitif and talk in the hotel, we stroll out to one of 

the best restaurants in town for dinner. 

Overnight: Dinan, Hotel Le d’Avaugour 

Guided walking tour of Brittany’s 

most beautiful old town. We walk beside the 

river to the village of Lehon, protected by its 

feudal castle dominating the former abbey. 

After lunch in a local inn, we continue along 

the river ascending through meadows to end 

the day with a great view of the city and its 

river-port from a magnificent viaduct. We 

dine this evening in a typical ‘crêperie’. 

Overnight: Dinan, Hotel Le d’Avaugour 

La Pointe du Hoc Normandy site 

Cruise along the Rance river followed by a 

walk to our lunch venue. We start our afternoon 

with a short transfer to see a unique tidal powerstation 

and then continue on foot to the famous 

resort of Dinard and then take the ferry to St-Malo. 

We stroll along the ancient city ramparts to our 

beautiful new hotel, before having dinner in 

the restaurant overlooking the sea. 

Overnight: St-Malo, 

Hotel Nouveau Monde 

We walk along the coastline, 

passing the amazing sculptured rocks of 

Rotheneuf, comprising 300 local characters 

carved into the granite by a 19thcentury 

priest, the Abbé Fouré. We 

continue along the picturesque Côte 

Liberty Road milestone 

d’Emeraude (Emerald Coast) to lunch 

followed by a drive into Normandy. In 

the evening, we walk across the causeway to Mont St Michel 

to dine on the famous ‘omelette de la Mère Poulard’; a 

unique experience! 

Overnight: Mont St Michel, Relais St Michel 

We arrive at Bayeux and visit the famous 11thcentury 

Tapestry made to celebrate the conquest of England 

by William, Duke of Normandy. After lunch, we walk 

through the ‘bocage’, a Norman word for the unique, picture 

postcard landscape of woodland, pasture and meadows 

interspersed with charming hamlets. We stop to taste the 

renowned local calvados and apple cider. We settle in our 

stunning hotel in Port-en-Bessin, before a presentation about 

the D-Day Landings. 

Overnight: Port-en-Bessin, Château La Chenevière 

A fascinating and thought-provoking tour of the 

Normandy Beaches. We visit Ste Mère Eglise, scene of the 

largest airborne night assault in history and centre of US 

82nd Airborne operations; the German cemetery at La 

Cambe; the Pointe du Hoc where the battery has been left as 

it was on D-Day. We walk along Omaha Beach for a guided 

tour of the US Cemetery, with time to reflect. We return to 

our hotel for our Farewell Dinner. 

Overnight: Port-en-Bessin, Château La Chenevière 

Transfer to Caen to say au revoir at the station. 

Detail of the 230 ft long Bayeux Tapestry 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Arrival: Rennes 

Departure: Caen 

Terrain: Easy to moderate. 

Coastline paths, country trails. 



Water Sports Fishing Golf Horseback Riding 





2016 Dates: 

June 12-18, 


35

France 

• Private wine tasting at Domaine 

Servan in Chablis 

• Gentle strolls in the rich countryside 

of Burgundy 

• Luxurious on-board accommodation 

• Gourmet meals showcasing 

regional French cuisine 

• Visit a traditional French market 

Burgundy by Barge 

La Belle Epoque 

Built in 1930 to carry freight on the 

canals, the barge was converted into 

a hotel and now has seven luxury 

cabins complete with marble-tiled 

bathrooms, and public rooms 

including a saloon/dining room and 

sun deck with Jacuzzi hot tub. 

and the 13th-century Hotel Dieu 

and then return by minibus to 

the barge moored at Lézinnes. 

Rendezvous in Paris and transfer to the barge. 

Welcome Aboard with champagne and canapés before 

our Welcome Dinner on board. 

Overnight for the week: The Barge La Belle Epoque 

After a delicious breakfast which includes 

fresh croissants from a local boulangerie, we cruise 

through the Burgundian countryside to Tanlay with the 

option to take a leisurely walk along the towpath. After 

lunch on board we visit the 16th-century Château de 

Tanlay for a guided tour of this beautiful castle. 

Canal-side walk passing ancient villages 

before departing for a private wine tasting and gourmet 

lunch in Chablis. After lunch there is time to wander 

around the town before we take a late afternoon walk 

towards Tonnerre. We visit the amazing Fosse Dionne 

A morning visit to 

Noyers sur Serein, listed as one 

of the most beautiful villages in 

France, gives us a chance to 

enjoy the local produce, colors 

and delights of the wonderful 

market. In the afternoon we 

either enjoy a lazy cruise or a circuitous walk 

through the Burgundian countryside. 

Starting at the tiny village of Cry, this 

morning’s walk takes us through woodland, over 

rolling fields and by a ruined castle. In the afternoon 

we drive to the exquisite UNESCO World Heritage site 

of Abbaye de Fontenay founded by St Bernard in 1118. 

With its peaceful gardens and ponds and fascinating 

cloisters, dormitories and scriptorium, Fontenay gives 

an exceptional glimpse of Cistercian life and industry. 

A late afternoon walk brings us to the ancient town 

of Ravières. 

Gourmet cuisine by luxury barge 

We have the best views of the week with 

stunning vistas across the valley of the Brenne and 

the Canal du Bourgogne. In the afternoon we first 

visit the fascinating walled hilltop village of 

Flavigny sur Ozerain, where the film ‘Chocolat’ was 

made. This is followed by a visit to Alesia, the site 

of the final battle between the Gauls and Romans 

that took place in 52 BC. We return to the barge for 

the Captain’s Farewell Dinner . 

Private transfer to Paris. 

NB: This itinerary is subject to change. 

Château de Tanlay 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Arrival: Paris 

Departure: Paris 

Terrain: The soft landscape, 

low hills and level towpaths 

skirting canals make for 

easy walking. 

3-5 miles per day. 


Biking 

From US$ 5,290 per person 

(From US$ 5,025 Wayfarers’ Friends) 

(From US$ 1,850 Single Supplement) 


2015 Dates: 

October 9-15, 

October 16-22 

Balloon Rides

Burgundy 

Walks and wines 

from Beaune 

to Cluny 

France 

• Discover some of the most beautiful 

villages in France, including the 

location of the movie Chocolat 

• Take tea at a private mansion 

• Wine-tasting in the cellars of world 

famous châteaux 

• Explore the ruins of the influential 

Benedictine abbey at Cluny 

• Visit Château of Commarin where the 

current owner, a descendant of the 

Duke of Burgundy, will greet us 

• Learn about the art of truffle hunting 

NEW 

Hospices de Beaune 

We rendezvous at the TGV station in Dijon, 

the capital of Burgundy's dukes, and make the short 

transfer to our first hotel, a castle in a small village in 

Auxois. The evening starts with an introduction to 

our week, followed by dinner. 

Overnight: Pouilly-en-Auxois, Château Sainte Sabine 

After a short transfer to Flavigny-sur- 

Ozerain, the location for the movie Chocolat, we hike 

to the moated castle of Bussy-Rabutin. Lunch is in a 

traditional auberge. A lakeside walk brings us to the 

fortified town of Semur-en-Auxois and Tea on the 

terrace of a private mansion. 

Overnight: Pouilly-en-Auxois, Château Sainte Sabine 

Château de Clos-Vougeot 

We walk beside the Burgundy canal and 

in the hills, to Chateauneuf-en-Auxois, with its 

famous medieval castle. After lunch, we continue 

along the fringe of the plateau with magnificent 

views of the valley to the renowned Chateau de 

Commarin. We will be welcomed by the owner 

himself, descendant of an aristocratic 

family with 500 years of history. We 

transfer to Beaune and our hotel in the 

historic center. 

Overnight: Beaune, Hotel Le Cep 

We visit the traditional market and the famous 

Hospices de Beaune, founded as a charitable almshouse 

nearly 600 years ago. We lunch at Château d'Entre-deux- 

Monts, dating from the time of Louis XIII. We find out about 

truffle-hunting and enjoy the spoils with our meal! On to the 

Côte de Nuits vineyards and the Château de Clos-Vougeot, 

the headquarters of the brotherhood of the "Chevaliers du 

Tastevin", where we see the château, the Cistercian cellars 

and wine presses. 

Overnight: Beaune, Hotel Le Cep 

We walk above the vineyards of Volnay to Saint- 

Romain, an ancient stone village. After lunch in a local 

auberge, we hike to the wine-growing village of Chassagne- 

Montrachet and a wine-tasting session in the Château de 

Chassagne cellars. We drive to Tournus, one of the oldest 

monastic centers of Burgundy. We dine in a traditional 

restaurant next to the 11th century abbey. 

Overnight: Tournus, Hotel de Greuze 

We transfer to the “perched” village of Brancion for 

coffee and croissants at the foot of the medieval castle. Our 

walk takes us on the old monks’ path to Cluny, the medieval 

capital of the Roman Catholic Church, for lunch. Our afternoon 

ends with a visit of the ruins of the mighty Cluny 

abbey before a transfer back to our hotel. Our farewell 

dinner is at the Michelin-starred Restaurant de Greuze. 

Overnight: Tournus, Hotel de Greuze 

Arrival: Dijon 

Departure: Dijon 

or Montchanin TGV 

Terrain: Undulating paths and 

tracks through forests, fields and 

vineyards. Some rocky paths. 

Occasional, moderate ups and downs. 

Average 10 miles walking per day. 






2016 Dates: 

June 5-11F, 


F = Founders’ Walk 

We say our goodbyes and depart from the TGV station 

at Dijon or 

Montchanin. 

37

France 

• Unique mix of French and German 

culture 

• Fine Alsatian cuisine and regional 

specialities 

• Fascinating military history from both 

World Wars 

• Wines of the region 

• Picturesque villages with half timbered 

houses and cobbled streets 

Alsace 

Rendezvous in Strasbourg for 

the short journey to our hotel in the 

heart of Obernai, one of the loveliest 

villages in Alsace. Time to stroll 

around the village before an 

Introductory Talk and Welcome 

Dinner – our first taste of the 

renowned Alsatian cuisine. 

Overnight: Obernai, Hotel A la Cour d’Alsace 

Following a charming valley we leave Obernai 

to go to Boersch, a typical Alsatian fortress community. 

On the way we visit a handicraft marquetry studio. 

Heading through vineyards and pastures we arrive in 

Rosheim for lunch. In the afternoon, we visit the 12thcentury 

church before walking back through forests 

and vineyards. 

Overnight: Obernai, Hotel A la Cour d’Alsace 

We visit the mountain-top sanctuary of Mont 

Ste-Odile, a spiritual shrine much loved by the Alsatian 

people. Crossing the majestic Vosgienne forest we 

descend to Barr, another Alsatian 'kitsch' village for our 

lunch. Our afternoon trail varies between woody hills 

and vineyards, and takes us to Bernardville for a wine 

tasting. We transfer to our hotel in Ribeauvillé and have 

dinner in a traditional 'winstub' in town. 

Overnight: Ribeauvillé, Le Clos Saint Vincent 

Villages, Vosges 

& Vineyards 

vineyards of Riesling, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and 

Gewürztraminer grapes. In Riquewihr, a village 

acclaimed for its beauty, we have lunch before 

walking on to another fortified village, Kientzheim, 

still nestled within its powerful ramparts. On the way 

we pass the WWII memorial remembering the 

soldiers from many different nations who gave their 

lives in the bloody battle of La Poche de Colmar. 

Overnight: Colmar, Hotel les Têtes 

We take to the Vosges Mountains on shaded 

forest paths and walk beside the region’s two most 

prominent lakes. We visit the museum and memorial 

at Le Linge, scene one of the bloodiest battles of 

World War I. A very moving memorial site, the battlefield 

contains numerous black-and-white crosses 

marking the final resting place of French and German 

troops. Lunch is in a typical local auberge with an 

opportunity to taste Munster cheese, before returning 

to our hotel and our Farewell Dinner. 

Overnight: Colmar, Hotel les Têtes 

The Wayfarers provide a courtesy bus transfer 

to the rail station in Colmar where we say au revoir. 

Visit to the great Château du Haut Koenigs - 

bourg, one of Europe’s most important medieval 

fortresses, restored in the 19th Century by Kaiser 

Wilhelm II. We enjoy the far-reaching views to 

Germany’s Black Forest and then walk down through 

the forest to our lunch in a chalet in a mountain resort. 

In the afternoon, we discover the ruins of three castles 

owned by the Ribeaupierre family. 

Overnight: Ribeauvillé, Le Clos Saint Vincent 

Optional 

Opportunities 

We walk down from the hotel into 

Ribeauvillé, one of the most beautiful villages in France, 

along the celebrated Alsace Route de Vins, through 

Arrival: Strasbourg 

Departure: Colmar 

Terrain: Undulating paths and 

tracks through forests, vineyards 

and picturesque villages. 

Occasional moderate ups and downs. 



Massage/Spa 

Market 





2016 Dates: 

May 29 - June 4, 


Golf 

Horseback Riding

France 

Provence 

We rendezvous in Avignon before transferring 

to Lourmarin for our Welcome Reception and 

pre-dinner aperitif followed by a typical Provençal 

dinner. 

Overnight: Lourmarin, Le Moulin de Lourmarin 

We walk in a landcape full of flowers, 

herbs and fragrances in springtime and a dazzling 

display of rich colors in autumn. We walk to the 

village of Vaugines for lunch, and continue through 

vineyards in the afternoon to end the day at the 

14th-century castle of Lourmarin. Try an aperitif of 

Pastis, a well-known aniseed beverage and 'symbol 

of the South' before dining in our hotel. 

Overnight: Lourmarin, Le Moulin de Lourmarin 

Fragrances, 

fine dining and 

artistic inspiration 

Following a sparkling river, we explore 

deep, dramatic gorges bounded by cliffs and inhabited 

only by birds of prey. An old pack-horse trail 

brings us to lunch at a traditional auberge. We hike 

to the hilltop village of Bonnieux where we stay for 

dinner and overnight. 

Overnight: Bonnieux, La Bastide de Capelongue 

We explore Bonnieux, then follow a 

winding path through woods and vineyards to the 

• Brilliantly colored wild landscapes 

that inspired great painters 

• Superb gourmet fine dining 

• Beautiful old villages and ancient 

castles 

• Private wine tasting 

• Visit The Marquis de Sade's 

village of Lacoste 

Marquis de Sade’s picturesque village of 

Lacoste for lunch. The heady 

scents of rosemary, cedar and 

wild thyme accompany us 

past craggy stone walls 

and almond trees to 

old Ménerbes, a former 

Calvinist stronghold in the 

Middle Ages. We finish our day by visiting a 

local wine grower to taste the Luberon wine. 

Overnight: Bonnieux, La Bastide de Capelongue 

We walk to the beautiful multihued 

village of Roussillon for a guided visit to an 

ochre museum and time to browse the market and 

village shops before lunch. We continue across the 

valley to the stunningly situated, tiered village of 

Gordes, perched on the rocky face of the Vaucluse 

Plateau. 

Overnight: Gordes, Hotel Les Bories 

We visit the source of the River Sorgue at Fontaine de 

Vaucluse and follow an ancient silk route to Cabrières 

d’Avignon for lunch. We return along rocky hillsides to 

Gordes where, in this village of centuries-old dwellings and 

vaulted passageways, we enjoy our Farewell Dinner. 

Overnight: Gordes, Hotel Les Bories 

The Wayfarers take you back to Avignon TGV station 

and see you safely on your way. 

Ellen Barone 

Optional 

Local artist 

Opportunities 

Arrival: Avignon TGV Rail Station 

Departure: Avignon TGV Rail Station 

Terrain: Firm ground, contoured 

rocky paths. 



Cooking Class 

Market Balloon Rides Swimming Painting Class 





2016 Dates: 

May 22-28, 

October 16-22 

39

Stephen Banks 

Stephen Banks 

40 

Stephen Banks 

1 Puglia 

2 The Veneto 

3 The Dolomites 

4 Lucca to Siena 

5 Classic Tuscany 

6 Tuscany & Umbria

Bolzano 

3 

7 

Como 

2 

Venice 

Stephen Banks 

Novara 

Vicenza 

9 

La Spezia 

Lucca 

4 

7 The Italian Lakes 

8 The Amalfi Coast & 

The Isle of Capri 

9 Cinque Terre 

10 Western Sicily 

11 Eastern Sicily 

Siena 

5 

Chiusi 

6 

Orvieto 

Rome 

Italy 

10 

Naples 

8 

Palermo 

Catania 

11 

0 miles 100 

Stephen Banks Stephen Banks Stephen Banks 

Brindisi 

1 

41

Testimonials 

Stephen Banks Stephen Banks 

“We always balance the 

cost versus the experience 

and I must say Wayfarer’s offers 

tremendous value for the price.” 

Karen D., Cinque Terre 

“Marina is a superb guide, both in her 

knowledge of the area, its flora and fauna 

and its historical significance - and in her 

excellent judgment about how to pace 

the walk and make certain that each of 

us was doing well and not struggling to 

keep up. 

This was a phenomenal experience, both 

physically and spiritually.” 

Ellen W., Italian lakes 

“The Thursday cave-walk was like going 

back 2,000 years into the Bible.” 

Michael S., Puglia 

“...is a marvelous addition to the 

Wayfarers’ portfolio. Every day brought 

us to new terrain- from the Adriatic Sea, 

with its amazing spectrum of blue, to 

Lecce and its unbelievable Baroque architecture, 

followed by Alberobello's thrifty 

trulli and then on to the rugged ravines 

and rock churches of Matera. 

... there were MILLIONS of wildflowers -- 

HUNDREDS of varieties -- I can't even 

count how many orchid varieties. A 

number of us on the Walk were absolute 

wildflower enthusiasts and we had never 

seen anything like it. 

We LOVED going to Mimmo's farm and 

having his family show us how 

mozzarella, burrata, and stracciatella di 

bufala was made and then enjoying a 

wonderful meal of cheese, orecchiette pasta 

with marinara sauce and home pickled 

vegetables, followed by almond cookies and 

almond milk...we all needed a nap afterwards!” 

Eileen M., Puglia 

“The walks along the coastline and the 

scenery were nothing I could imagine. 

Pictures won’t do it any justice. 

The views I experienced more than exceeded 

anything I thought I would see. AMAZING!” 

Jennifer B., Puglia 

“When we get home we are going to read 

our brochure and pick our next Wayfarers 

Walk. 

Rod and Janice B., Sicily 

“Walk totally fulfilled our expectations, 

hotels exceeded them, as did the scenery.” 

Mary D., Cinque Terre 

“I loved the beautiful scenery! I was in awe 

of the majesty of the mountains. I also loved 

the refugios where we stopped for lunch. I 

loved the Fanes Hotel and Spa! What a treat 

to stay in such a lovely spot!” 

Margaret C., Dolomites 

“My favorite aspects of the Walk were the 

flora/fauna and history, which is not to say 

that I didn’t enjoy the food and wine 

immensely.” 

Judy B., Eastern Sicily 

42 


Puglia 

Italy 

• Visit two UNESCO World Heritage 

Sites 

• Explore Alberobello, famous for its 

trulli houses 

• Hike in the Regional Park of the 

Rupestrian Rock Churches 

• See the Stone Age cave dwellings of 

Sassi di Matera 

• Lunch with a family of shepherds in 

their traditional home 

Dale Brown 

Dale Brown 

Rendezvous at Brindisi airport for a transfer 

to our hotel in Lecce, a town named the Florence of 

the south for its magnificent baroque 

architecture.In the evening we meet for our 


Overnight: Lecce, Hotel Patria Palace 

We transfer to Otranto for a walking tour 

of this fascinating coastal settlement dating back to 

the Classical era, including the Ancient Roman Torre 

del Serpe watchtower. After lunch we visit La 

Cutura Botanic Garden containing an abundant 

Trulli 

Beauty, history and local cuisine 

collection of succulent plants that thrive in the clement 

climate. 

Overnight: Lecce, Hotel Patria Palace 

We transfer from Lecce towards Ceglie 

Messapica from where we walk along the recently 

restored water conduit of the Sele River. This huge 

project was started in 1906 to bring fresh water to arid 

Puglia. After lunch in a local Trattoria we continue 

walking along the aqueduct and transfer to our hotel in 

Alberobello. 

Overnight: Alberobello, Hotel Il Palmento 

From the hotel we continue the walk 

along the aqueduct. Our lunch is served in a 

local farm dating back to the Middle Ages. Here 

we see a mozzarella cheese making demonstration. 

After lunch with a local guide, we explore 

Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site 

famous for its 1,500 ancient trulli houses. The 

Trulli are built of dry stones (no mortar) with 

pyramidal, domed or conical roofs. 

Overnight: Alberobello, Hotel Il Palmento 

We walk in 

The Archeological 

and Naturalistic 

Park of the 

Rupestrian Rock 

Churches of Matera. These 

unique ancient cave churches 

are scattered over area of about 

8,000 hectares encompassing a 

wealth of Neolithic settlements, fortified 

farms, and cisterns. After lunch a local guide takes us 

on a visit of the town of Matera, famous for its subterranean 

houses and also a second World Heritage Site. 

Many of the dwellings are little more than caves and 

some have been inhabited for 9,000 years. The town has 

been used many times as a movie location, including in 

Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ. 

Overnight: Matera, Hotel Santangelosassi 

Our Walk starts from the hotel and takes us along 

the spectacular Gravina Canyon. After a gourmet lunch 

in the beautiful town of Montescaglioso we have a 

guided tour of The Abbey and return to our hotel for 

our exquisite Farewell Dinner. 

Overnight: Matera, Hotel Santangelosassi 

The Wayfarers transfer you to Bari airport and 

see you on your way. 

Dale Brown 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Arrival: Brindisi Airport 

Departure: Bari Airport 

Terrain: Firm ground, dirt 

tracks and contoured rocky 

paths. Some loose stones. 



Swimming 

Tennis 

Massage/Spa 





2016 Dates: 

April 17-23, 


43

Italy 

• See Palladio's masterpieces 

• Cooking lesson in Albergo al Sole 

• Visit First World War battlefields 

• Explore the foothills of the 

Dolomites 

• Sample speciality cheese, grappa 

and prosecco 

Rendezvous in glorious 

Vicenza and visit Palladio’s stunning 

Teatro Olimpico. We continue to La 

Rotonda and drive to Asiago for our 

Welcome Drink and Dinner. 

Overnight: Asiago, Hotel Europa 

Transfer to Monte Cengio, scene of 

the Battle of Asiago, and walk through woods 

and open countryside to Fort Corbin, an 

impressive World War One fortification built 

on top of a cliff. We continue on to the fascinating 

mountain village of Tresche Conca in 

the foot hills of the Dolomites and then return 

to Asiago for dinner in a local pizzeria. 


We start in Croce Sant’Antonio and 

take a gentle uphill track through woods of 

spruce and larch with panoramic views. We 

continue walking to the top of the hill where 

we can see numerous trenches and bomb 

shelters from World War One. We lunch on 

local products at a farm and taste the famous 

The Veneto 

NEW 

Asiago cheese. Fascinating herb dinner at the hotel with a 

local herb grower/expert. 


An easy walk from the village of San Luca down 

to a trail overlooking the valley, and on to the charming 

medieval town of Marostica. After lunch in a traditional 

osteria, we transfer to Bassano Del Grappa and walk the 

ancient streets to see the cathedral, upper castle and 

famous wooden bridge, designed by Palladio. We visit the 

Nardini Distillery to learn about – and taste – the 

renowned grappa. We drive to Asolo, one of the loveliest 

little towns in Italy. 

Overnight: Asolo, Albergo Al Sole 

Today we walk from the hotel though the 

scenic hills and woodlands of Asolo, followed by a guided 

tour and visit of Palladio's famous Villa Barbaro. Here in 

the Villas winery we enjoy a delicious lunch and a wine 

Palladio’s Ponte degli Alpini, Bassano del grappa 

Palladio and 

Prosecco 

tasting. In the afternoon we return to the hotel in Asolo 

for a cooking lesson; we eat for dinner what we prepare! 

Overnight: Asolo, Albergo al Sole 

En route to the start of our Walk, we visit a neoclassical 

temple, the Tempio Canoviano designed by the 

famous painter and sculptor Antonio Canovan in the 

twilight of his life, and final repository of his genius and 

ashes. We walk through prosecco vineyards with 

marvelous views and where most of the cultivation is still 

done by hand in the traditional way. Prosecco wine 

tasting and light lunch is prepared by a local family on a 

terrace overlooking the vineyards. We visit an ancient 

working water mill en route to our hotel, on a hilltop 

with views to the Adriatic for our Farewell Dinner. 

Overnight: San Pietro di Feletto, Hotel Villa del Poggio 

After breakfast and a 30-minute transfer, we say 

"arrivederci" in Venice. 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Mountain Biking Swimming Water Sports 

Roy Robinson 

Dale Brown 

Arrival: Vicenza 

Departure: Venice 

Terrain: Mountain and forest trails, 

paved walks in Vicenza and Venice. 







2016 Dates: 

September 4-10

Italy 

The Dolomites 

• Unique, UNESCO listed area 

• Alpine wildflowers, crystal streams, 

pure air 

• Incredible panoramas of mountain 

peaks 

• Insight into the Ladino people's 

traditional food and culture 

• Spectacular and rewarding hiking 

Italy's awesome wild mountains 

We rendezvous in Bolzano, the capital of the 

Alto Adige, for our drive into the mountains to the 

elegant, fashionable village of Moena. Introductory 

Talk and Welcome Dinner. 

Overnight: Moena, Hotel Faloria 

We stroll through the streets of the old 

town and then ascend through woods of spruce 

and pine with occasional views of Moena below to 

lunch in a mountain tavern at Hennenstall. We hike 

on through alpine landscape to Lake Carezza, much 

loved by Winston Churchill, who painted here, and 

Agatha Christie, who based her novel ‘The Big Four’ 

here. We continue to San Cassiano, our base for the 

next three nights, for dinner. 

Overnight: San Cassiano, Hotel Fanes 

We drive to Colfosco with its splendid 

views of the cliffs of the Sella across the valley. We 

take a steep, sometimes rocky, uphill trail, to 

Forcella (mountain pass) 

de Campei. Mountain 

trails take us to a lakeside 

walk and the plateau of 

Gardenaccia with a panorama of 

peaks, after a lunch at Jimmy’s Hütte 

(boasting the best grappa in the Dolomites). Dinner tonight 

highlights the traditional food of the Ladino people. 


An undulating hike, accompanied by the sound of 

cow-bells clanging across the valley, with great views brings 

us to the Church of la Croce. We continue to the Ranch Hutte 

da Andrè for a hearty mountain lunch in this family-run 

restaurant. In the afternoon, choose to walk down on 

meadow trails and village streets or take the van directly to 

the hotel. 


A long, bracing day in the mountains. From the 

mountain chalet at Capanna Alpina, we ascend along a 

rocky trail to reach the high plateau. On a wide path, we 

continue through alpine pasture, where cows graze amid the 

flowers, to lunch in a mountain rifugio. We descend beside 

the dramatic waterfalls and gorges of the Fanes valley. 

Overnight: Cortina d'Ampezzo, Hotel Ancora 

Arrival: Bolzano 

Departure: Venice 

Terrain: Mountain trails and tracks, 

some steep ascents and descents. 


Note: Although this is a challenging week’s 

walking, there are less arduous options every 

day for those who prefer gentler alternatives. 

Massage/Spa 

Optional 

Mountain Biking Paragliding 

Opportunities 





2016 Dates: 

August 28 - September 3 

Tennis Horseback Riding 


We drive to Passo Falzarego where we admire views 

of the Cinque Torri (five towers) just above Cortina. We take 

lunch at the stunning restaurant with 360 degree views at 

Rifugio Scoiattolo. After lunch we take a circular walk 

around the Cinque Torri and visit the open-air World War I 

Museum, before our Farewell Dinner - in Cortina. 

Overnight: Cortina d'Ampezzo, Hotel Ancora 

Transfer to Venice, where we say 'arrivederci'. 

45

Italy 

• Follow the ancient Pilgrims’ Way 

in Tuscany 

• Guided walking tours of historic 

Lucca and Siena 

• Visit wine cellars producing 

Vernaccia white wine 

• Spend two nights in beautiful 

San Gimignano 

• Gain a unique perspective on the 

real Tuscany 

Rendezvous in Lucca, one of the 

most beautiful and ancient Tuscan 

towns. We take a guided tour of the 

town before meeting for our Intro - 

ductory Talk and Welcome Dinner. 

Overnight: Lucca, Palazzo Alexander 

The morning begins with a cycle ride around 

the magnificently preserved 16th-century ramparts of 

Lucca. After a short transfer and an early lunch, we start 

our journey on the Way. The route takes us past the 

ancient Osteria di Greppi, through woodland and over 

heathland, finishing at Ponte a Cappiano. From here we 

transfer to San Miniato, where Michelangelo met with 

Pope Clement VII who commissioned the great artist to 

paint the Sistine Chapel. 

Overnight: San Miniato, Miravalle Palace Hotel 

After a short transfer to the start of our walk 

we will take trails through fields and along white roads 

to Coiano where we visit the wine cellars and old olive 

mill of the Castello di Coiano, before continuing 

through olive groves and vineyards to lunch at a farm. 

After lunch we will continue through the rolling countryside 

to the Pieve di Santa Maria a Chianni then a 

short transfer to Gambassi Terme. 

Overnight: Gambassi Terme, Hotel Villa Bianca 

Our journey today takes us up and downhill 

along dirt roads through farmland to the Sanctuary of 

Pancole. We lunch at the Fattoria di Pancole and visit 

Lucca to Siena 

Stephen Banks 

Monteriggioni 

the wine cellars that produce some of the famous 

Vernaccia white wine. Our afternoon Walk takes 

us to the Monastero di Bose, a monastic community 

made up of both men and women of different 

Christian beliefs. Short transfer to San Gimi gnano, 

with a guided tour of the town. 

Overnight: San Gimignano, Hotel Belsoggiorno 

After a short transfer we walk through 

hilly countryside and across streams passing 

farms to Campiglia, then on to Colle Val d'Elsa, a 

walled medieval town situated on the Via 

Francigena and famous for its crystal glass, which 

has been produced since 1331. After lunch in a 

local restaurant there is time to visit the town 

before driving back to San Gimignano. 

Overnight: San Gimignano, Hotel Belsoggiorno 

Transfer to the start of our walk. The walk this 

morning takes us through Abbadia a Isola where we visit 

the Cistercian abbey dating back to 1001 before continuing 

on to Monte riggioni set within its medieval walls 

with towers that Dante likened to giant sentries. There 

will be time to visit the village before lunch in a local 

restaurant and transfer to our hotel near 

Siena where we celebrate the end of 

our journey with a Farewell Dinner. 

Overnight: Siena, 

Villa Scacciapensieri 

After breakfast, we 

take a guided walking 

tour of stunning Siena 

before saying farewell 

at Siena rail station. 

Detail of the marble floor in the Siena Duomo 

A Pilgrim Way 

Maria Woody 

Judi Hermann 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Arrival: Lucca Rail Station 

Departure: Siena Rail Station 

Terrain: Beautiful countryside 

along white roads, 

woodlands, vineyards 

and some hills. 


46 More details: www.thewayfarers.com 

Swimming 

Massage/Spa 





2016 Dates: 

May 22-28, 


Golf 

Tennis 


Enjoy the 

Full Tuscan 

Experience: 

Book the 

whole 

journey!

Italy 

Classic Tuscany 

Birthplace of the Renaissance 

• Rich landscape, brilliant light and 

exquisite villages 

• Learn how to prepare Tuscan farmhouse 

specialities 

• Visit the caves where St Francis lived 

• Organic wine tasting in renowned 

Brunello region 

• Cycle on the historic Sentiero della 

Bonifica 

Stephen Banks 

We rendezvous at Chiusi train station and 

transfer to Pienza, a remarkable example of 

Renaissance town planning, for our Introductory 

Talk and Welcome Drink. 

Overnight: Pienza, La Bandita 

This morning we will stroll the 

narrow vicoli of Pienza and visit the 

Romitorio, an Etruscan tomb carved out of 

the tufo rock and later used as a hermitage 

by monks from a nearby abbey. The afternoon 

walk will take us to Monticchiello, a 

La Cucina Toscana 

Stephen Banks 

Montepulciano 

charming medieval village which preserves its old 

paving, characteristic stone houses and hidden 

gardens. 


This morning visit the Pieve of Corsignano, 

stunning in its simplicity. We will then cross the 

wheat fields made famous by the film 'Gladiator' to 

il Rigo where we will roll up our sleeves and don 

aprons for a cookery lesson. After lunch we will 

continue on to Bagno Vignoni to relax in the hot 

water springs of this unique spa hamlet. 


On Monte Cetona we walk through oak 

and maple woods to visit the caves of Saint Francis 

then continue on to lunch in a tiny 

hamlet set in a spectacular position. 

After lunch we visit La Foce gardens, 

originally designed by the English architect 

Cecil Pinsent. 

Overnight: Montepulciano, 

Villa Cicolina 

We walk to Cantina Salcheto, a fascinating 

organic and biodynamic wine estate, for a tasting and 

lunch. In the afternoon, we return to Montepulciano to 

explore the cellars of the wine cathedral dug out below 

the town. 

Overnight: Montepulciano, Villa Cicolina 

This morning there will be a short transfer before 

starting a relaxing bike ride on the historic Sentiero della 

Bonifica, taking us along the agricultural plains of the Val di 

Chiana valley. After lunch we will explore Lucignano, a 

small village set in a spectacular position overlooking the 

Val di Chiana, and visit its museum which is home to the 

Tree of Life, a gold work masterpiece. 

Overnight: Montepulciano, Villa Cicolina 

This morning we will drive to Arezzo, for a short 

guided visit and the chance to visit the antique market, one 

of the most important in Italy.. 

Stephen Banks 

Maria Woody 

Optional 

Opportunities 

than 1! >> 

Swimming Massage/Spa Antique Shopping 

Special Price 

US$ 8,150 

(per person 


occupancy) 


Arrival: Chiusi Rail Station 

Departure: Arezzo Rail Station 

Terrain: Unpaved roads, 

woodland trails with 

some hills 


15 miles easy cycling on Friday. 






2016 Dates: 



47

Italy 

• Guided tours of Siena and Orvieto 

• Visit medieval studio workshops 

• Walk through the vineyards of 

Chianti Classico 

• Olive oil tasting at ancient 

monastery 

• Visit the Basilica of St Francis in 

Assisi, A UNESCO World Heritage 

Site 

Tuscany & Umbria 

Stephen Banks 

We meet in Orvieto and take a 

short walk around this stunning 

Etruscan city, before driving to our 

hotel near Montefalco. In the evening, 

we meet for our Introductory Talk and 

Welcome Dinner. 

Overnight: Montefalco, Villa Zuccari 

This morning's walk takes us across gentle 

hills and through the vineyards where the Sagrantino 

wine is made. In Montefalco we visit an old olive mill 

and, after lunch in the ancient walled town of Bevagna, 

we visit medieval 'botteghe' (craftsmen's studio-workshops). 

We end our day with a wine-tasting before 

dinner in the hotel. 

Overnight: Montefalco, Villa Zuccari 

From the top of Monte Subasio, we walk to 

glorious Assisi with incredible views of the valley 

below. After lunch, we have a guided tour of the elegant 

squares, architectural splendors and the Basilica of St 

Francis. We leave enchanting Umbria and travel to the 

rich lanscape of Tuscany. 

Overnight: Cortona, Villa Marsili 

Bucolic landscapes, vineyards 

and Renaissance splendor 

Montefalco 

We leave Cortona and head for the renowned 

Chianti Classico region, where we spend the day walking 

through vineyards where the famous wine is produced. 

We pass charming old farmhouses and ancient castles to 

reach our historic hotel, part of an ancient feudal hamlet. 

Overnight: Gaiole in Chianti, Castello di Spaltenna 

We walk to the renowned Badia a Coltibuono, 

founded by the monks of Vallombrosa 1,000 years ago. We 

savor the rich history of this monastery with a private 

tour of the villa, featuring its 16th-century 

frescoes, cloister and ancient cellars, and the beautiful 

gardens. An expert guides us in a tasting of olive oils and 

honey before we return to Giaole in plenty of time for a 

relaxing swim and our Farewell Dinner. 

Overnight: Gaiole in Chianti, Castello di Spaltenna 

Stephen Banks 

We transfer to Siena for a brief walking 

visit, before we say 'arrivederci' at the rail station. 

Tasting Chianti Classico 

Today is spent in and around elegant Cortona. 

We pass by 'Bramasole', the house made famous by 

Frances Mayes in 'Under the Tuscan Sun', and spend 

time exploring this en chanting hilltop town. After 

lunch, we walk to the hermitage of Celle di San 

Francesco with stunning views of the valley and the 

town in the distance. In the evening, we dine in a local 

restaurant. 

Overnight: Cortona, Villa Marsili 

Ippolito Scalza’s Pieta, Orvieto 

Stephen Banks 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Arrival: Orvieto Rail Station 

Departure: Siena Rail Station 

Terrain: Steady walking on hills, 

vineyard trails and forest tracks. 



Stephen Banks 

Swimming 





2016 Dates: 

June 5-11 

Antique Shopping

The Italian Lakes 

Island of San Giulio, Lake Orta 

Como, 

Maggiore, 

Lugano 

& Orta 

Italy 

• Explore Alpine peaks and lakeside 

paths 

• Cruise across Lake Orta by private 

boat 

• visit four wonderful gardens 

• Cross into Switzerland 

• Mingle in the fashionable streets of 

Stresa and Bellagio 

mountains. Dinner is at 

our lakeside hotel, 

a Wayfarers' 

favorite. 

Overnight: Lugano, 

Hotel Swiss Diamond 

Rendezvous in Novara for our transfer to Orta 

San Giulio and our Introductory Talk and Welcome 

Dinner. 

Overnight: Orta, Hotel San Rocco 

We cross Lake Orta by private boat and 

then walk on stone paths through ancient villages 

where time has stood still. In the afternoon, our 

private boat takes us to visit the island of San Giulio 

and then back to Orta where we wander through the 

charming little streets of the village to visit the 

famed gardens of Villa Motta. 

Overnight: Orta, Hotel San Rocco 

Isola Bella, Lago Maggiore 

We walk from Monte Mottarone up to 

Monte Falo and down to a picturesque village. In 

the afternoon, we can choose to walk around 

Stresa and enjoy some shopping, cruise the lake to 

visit the Borromean Island of Isola Bella and have a 

guided tour of the Palace.. 

Overnight: Stresa, Hotel La Palma 

We leave Stresa by ferry and van to cross 

the border into Switzerland arriving at lovely 

Lugano. A funicular takes us to the top of Monte 

San Salvatore where we have lunch in a restaurant 

with an incredible view over the lake and the 

Today we explore Monte 

Generoso, the King Mountain of 

the region, which we reach by 

private boat across the Lake. We 

hike in a beautiful area of green 

alpine meadows in a landscape reminiscent 

of 'Heidi'. We lunch in a mountain hut, with special local 

food, and in the afternoon, on a trail with panoramic 

views we descent to Lake Como. 

Overnight: Menaggio, Grand Hotel Victoria or 

Royal Victoria Hotel 

We hike along the 

shoreline of Lake Como. 

Stopping at the 18th-century 

Villa Carlotta, we admire the 

villa's splendid garden and 

romantic sculptures. We sail 

across the lake to dock straight on 

the jetty of a 14th-century inn 

for our lunch. In the afternoon 

we have the choice of walking to 

the gardens of Villa Melzi or shopping in the old town of 

Bellagio, 'The Pearl of Lake Como'. 

Overnight: Menaggio, Grand Hotel Victoria or 

Royal Victoria Hotel 

Laura Depta Peal 

After breakfast, we say farewell at Como Rail Station. 

Arrival: Varenna Rail Station 

Departure: Como Rail Station 

Terrain: Waterside paths and 

alpine trails at up to 7,000 feet, 

some steep descents. 

10 miles maximum walking per day. 


Market 

Optional 

Massage/Spa 





2016 Dates: 

June 19-25, 


Opportunities 

Swimming 

Fishing 

Laura Depta Peal 

View of Lake Como 

49

Italy 

• Walk the dramatic Path of the 

Gods between sky and sea 

• Visit ancient Pompeii 

• Spend a day on the romantic Isle 

of Capri 

• Feast on rustic Italian family 

cuisine 

• Stay in stunning Ravello, a 

UNESCO World Heritage Site 

The Amalfi Coast & 

The Isle of Capri 

Vintage glamour and Roman remains 

Arrive in Naples for a transfer to your first hotel 

in Sorrento where we meet for a Welcome Dinner and 

Introductory Talk. 

Overnight: Sorrento, Hotel Bellevue Syrene 

We ferry to romantic Capri to explore this 

enchanting isle's lush countryside, quaint towns and 

awe-inspiring caverns. We visit the villa of the Roman 

emperor Tiberio and follow paths along the rocky coastline. 

After lunch on a terrace with a splendid sea view, 

we continue walking to the trendy town of Capri and 

the famous “Piazzetta”. We then return to the harbor for 

a beautiful boat ride back to our hotel in Sorrento. 

Overnight: Sorrento, Hotel Bellevue Syrene 

We transfer to the top of the mountains 

above magical Positano. Here we walk 

with unsurpassed views of the Amalfi Coast. We 

enjoy a delightful lunch in a family-run 'trattoria'. 

In the afternoon we descend to Positano 

to swim in the blue sea or relax on a sun bed. 

Overnight: Positano, Hotel Miramare 

From the charming village of Nocelle, 

we walk in the mountains along the incredible 

Path of Gods, savouring the breathtaking experience 

of walking between the sky and the sea. 

On the way we have lunch at the local rustica 

da Salvatore. We continue to the village of 

Bomerano and we then transfer to our 

lovely hotel in Amalfi. 

Overnight: Amalfi, Convento di Amalfi 

We visit Ravello and walk to Villa Cimbrone, famous 

for its terrace of infinity and its gardens, so admired by 

Wagner, Longfellow, D.H.Lawrence and Greta Garbo among 

others. Then we walk through terraced gardens to Pontone 

for a chance to try a regional specialty, spaghetti with 

lemon sauce, for lunch. This afternoon we descend to 

Amalfi to visit the fabulous cathedral and the ancient 

paper mill, still processing cotton rags into beautiful handmade 

paper. After free time, we return to Amalfi for our 

Farewell dinner on the hotel's terrace with panoramic 

views of the sea. 

Overnight: Amalfi, Convento di Amalfi 

We visit ancient Pompeii and then return to Naples 

Rail Station. 

We walk from Sorrento up to Sant'Agata for 

the best panoramic views of the two Gulfs - on one side 

the Gulf of Naples and the other the Gulf of Salerno. We 

descend to the adorable village of Marina del Cantone a 

favorite celebrity haunt known for its good food and 

pretty pebble beach. After lunch we take a private boat 

along the stunning coastline to Positano and our hotel. 

Overnight: Positano, Hotel Miramare 

Pack animals 

Stepping stones in the streets of Pompeii 

Optional Opportunities 

Arrival: Naples Rail Station 

Departure: Naples Rail Station 

Terrain: Coastal paths and alpine 

trails at up to 1500ft., some steep 

descents, stone steps. 



Water Sports 

Swimming 





2016 Dates: 

May 8-14, 


Massage/Spa

The glamorous 

Italian Riviera 

Italy 

• Mountain trails and coastal paths 

• Sample wine praised by the Romans 

• Taste traditional Genovese spaghetti 

• Explore elegant Portofino 

• Visit 1,200-year-old Abbey of 

San Fruttuoso 

Cinque Terre 

Lisa Keglovitz 

Michael Scott 

Portofino 

Rendezvous in La Spezia and transfer to 

our lovely harbor-side hotel in Portovenere for a 

Welcome Dinner and introductory Talk. 

Overnight: Portovenere, Grand Hotel 

Wooded tracks lead us from a tiny 

hilltop village to a walk along the Cinque Terre 

Peninsula beside the shining Gulf of La Spezia. 

We hike to Riomaggiore where we have lunch. 

We visit Monterosso and continue by train to 

our seaside hotel in Sestri Levante. 

Overnight: Sestri Levante, Hotel Miramare 

We explore the hilltop village of 

Volastra, where locals tend steeply terraced vineyards 

overlooking the sea. After lunch in lovely 

Corniglia, we continue to Sestri Levante by train. 

Overnight: Sestri Levante, Hotel Miramare 

After a short drive, we walk an ancient 

mountain trail through forests and pastures. We 

marvel at the outstanding views of the sea in one 

direction and forests and mountains in the other. We 

lunch on an elegant terrace overlooking the sparkling 

Ligurian Sea and descend to Rapallo by cable car, and 

on to our seaside hotel for dinner. 

Overnight: Camogli, Hotel Cenobio dei Dogi 

We walk to Punta Chiappa, where we board 

a boat to take us past the towering cliffs of the 

Portofino National Park to the 1,200 year-old 

monastery of San Fruttuoso, accessible only by sea or 

on foot. After lunch, we either hike uphill and along 

the cliffs to Santa Margherita, or we return to Camogli 

by boat. There we can enjoy shopping in the old town 

and relax at the pool or private beach of our hotel. 


Our trail leads through oak and chestnut forests along 

an ancient route to the charming village of Portofino. In a 

small piazza very close to the harbor, we enjoy our lunch in 

a quaint little restaurant which serves tasty spaghetti with 

pesto, prepared in the traditional Genovese way. After lunch, 

we explore the old harbor, wander around the tiny streets 

with their yachting boutiques and art galleries, and walk to 

the lighthouse at Punta Portofino, before boarding a ferry for 

the voyage back across the bay to our Farewell Dinner. 


The Wayfarers transfer you to Santa Margherita Ligure 

Rail Station. 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Arrival: La Spezia Rail Station 

Departure: Santa Margherita Ligure 

Rail Station 

Terrain: Coastal trails, mule tracks, 

well defined paths and many stone 

steps. Paths can be rocky. 



Market Massage/Spa Swimming 





2016 Dates: 

June 12-18, 


51

Italy 

• Experience the remote peace and 

beauty of Lo Zingaro nature 

reserve 

• Marsala wine tasting at Florio 

winery 

• Visit the temples at Segesta, 

Selinunte and Agrigento 

• Picnic on the Isle of Mozia 

• Lunch at a country farmhouse 

Western Sicily 

Roy Robinson 

Rendezvous in Palermo for the 

short journey to our hotel overlooking 

the sea before we gather for an 

Introductory Talk and Welcome 

Dinner. 

Overnight: Scopello, La Tavernetta 

Ancient temples, 

nature reserves 

and fortified wine 

We spend the morning walking the 

coastal path of the Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve, 

where wild flowers and birds abound. In the afternoon 

we walk to the seaside resort of San Vito lo 

Capo that opens out into a bay of clear blue water 

and famous for its Cous Cous festival. 

Overnight: Scopello, La Tavernetta 

We transfer to the Nature 

Reserve Park of Monte Cofano to 

hike around the promontory, on footpaths 

once trodden by pirates, and 

immerse ourselves in the wild and 

rugged beauty of this unspoilt coastline. 

After lunch, we drive to 

Erice for a walking tour of 

this thoroughly medieval 

walled mountain town, one 

of the most stunning towns 

in the Mediterranean. 

Overnight: Marsala, 

Hotel Carmine 

Phoenician settlement are much in evidence. In the tiny 

museum, we see the magnificent 5th century marble 

sculpture of Il Giovinetto. After a tasty lunch, we return 

to the mainland to visit the renowned Florio winery. 

Overnight: Marsala, Hotel Carmine 

Segesta and Selinunte are the two great 5thcentury 

cities whose rivalry led to all-out war. Today 

we visit the first, Segesta, where we will see the great 

Doric Temple and the theater dating from the 3rd 

Century BC – two of the most stunningly sited 

Classical monuments in the world. We enjoy an 

organic lunch at an agriturismo farmhouse. 

Overnight: Menfi, Planeta Estate 

Today we have a choice. In the morning, you 

can opt to drive (about 90 minutes) to Agrigento for 

a guided walking tour of the magnificent Valley of 

the Temples, dedicated to Juno, Concord, Hercules, 

Jupiter, and the Dioscures. The alternative is a lovely 

walk in the countryside, through olive groves and 

vineyards. In the afternoon, we all visit the enormous 

ruins of the temples at Selinunte. We return 

to our hotel for our Farewell Dinner. 

Overnight: Menfi, Planeta Estate 

We return to Palermo and say “arrivederci” to 

those leaving us. Those continuing on to our 

Eastern Sicily Walk head for ancient Cefalu. 

This morning we 

walk along the lagoons and 

salt pans still guarded by the 

old windmills and then board 

the ferry to the Isle of Mozia, 

where the ruins of the ancient 

Optional 

Opportunities 

>> Bella Sicilia Walk 

52 

Arrival: Palermo 

Departure: Palermo 

Terrain: Greatly varied - 

modest, easy and 

vigorous walks, 

sometimes rocky trails. 


For more details: 

www.thewayfarers.com 

Swimming Market Antique Shopping Water Sports 





2016 Dates: 

April 24-30, 

October 2-8 

Experience the 

best of Sicily in 

two weeks. Book 

both Sicily trips back to 

back and we will include 

full ground transportation 

between Walks and a 

night in magical Cefalù.

Italy 

Eastern Sicily 

Mount Etna, 

Classical sites 

and coastal paths 

• Hike on Mount Etna's smouldering 

flanks 

• Walking tour of Siracusa where 

St Paul preached 

• Experience lovely Taormina and visit 

the Greek amphitheater 

• Explore wilderness area of coastal 

marshlands 

• View the baroque magnificence 

of Noto 

Joan Fry 

Taormina Amphitheater with Mount Etna 

Rendezvous in Catania airport and head 

to our stunning hotel in Modica. Time to relax 

before an Introductory Talk and Welcome Dinner. 

Overnight: Modica, Casa Talia Hotel 

This morning we walk out from the 

Baroque town of Ragusa. A country walk takes us 

down a gorge outside the historic town. After 

lunch in a typical trattoria, a local guide leads us 

up and down the narrow lanes and stairways of 

the ancient Ibla, with views over churches, 

domes, bell towers, and gorges. 

Overnight: Modica, Casa Talia Hotel 

Today we walk in the wilderness area 

of the protected Vendicari Nature Reserve, a 

complex of coastal marshlands, home to large populations 

of migratory birds. After a farmhouse lunch, 

home-cooked from local produce, we continue to the 

splendid baroque town of Noto, with its lovely golden 

limestone buildings. We drive to Siracusa and our 

hotel situated in the historic center on the island of 

Ortygia. 

Overnight: Siracusa Ortygia, Antico Hotel Roma 

We spend today in and around Siracusa, 

colonized in 734 BC by the Corinthians and converted 

to Christianity by St Paul himself, who preached in the 

quarries. To walk here is a journey through history 

among Greek temples, Baroque buildings and courtyards, 

and Arab workshops and squares. We explore 

the Neapolis Archaeological Park with the Greek and 

Roman theater 

and the huge 

underground 

burial chambers of the Catacombs of St John. 

Overnight: Siracusa Ortygia, Antico Hotel Roma 

We drive to the Reserve of Pantalica situated 

inland in the valley of Anapo, an extraordinary 

succession of gorges and canyons crossed by 

two rivers: the Anapo and Cavagrande. Here 

we see Pantalica, a Bronze Age settlement 

and the largest Necropolis in the Medi - 

terranean, where thousands of tombs give 

a beehive appearance to the cliff-face. After 

lunch in a local farmhouse, we head north to 

Taormina, to our hotel overlooking the Ionian Sea. 

Overnight: Taormina, Hotel Monte Tauro 

We walk on Mount Etna, Europe's most famous 

active volcano. The land abounds in oranges, mandarins, 

lemons, olives, prickly pears, bananas, eucalyptus and the 

vines that produce the excellent Etna wine. Pausing for a 

picnic lunch, we continue on to explore the national 

park, walking through pine woods and old lava flows. 

Our Farewell Dinner is in the hotel restaurant. 

Overnight: Taormina, Hotel Monte Tauro 

We have a guided tour of the ancient Greek theater 

before leaving for Catania Airport. 

Package >> 

Special Price 

US$ 8,250 

(Not eligible 

for Friends' 

Loyalty pricing) 

(US$ 995 

Single 

Supplement) 

Arrival: Catania Airport 

Departure: Catania Airport 

Terrain: Greatly varied - 

modest, easy and 

vigorous walks, 

sometimes rocky trails. 


Call us at 1-800-249-4620 

(US & Canada) 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Swimming Market Antique Shopping Water Sports 





2016 Dates: 

May 1-7, 

October 9-15 

53

Bergen 

3 

Norway 

Oslo 

Berlin 

Dresden 

7 

Germany 

Prague 

6 

Czech 

Republic 

Munich 

2 

1 

0 miles 200 

Salzburg 

Austria 

4 

Ljubljana 

Vienna 

Zagreb 

Slovenia 

Croatia 

54 

1 Winter Tyrolean Alps 

2 Bavaria & Tyrolean Alps 

3 Bergen & the Western Fjords 

4 Slovenia 

5 The Dalmatian Coast 

6 Vienna to Prague 

7 Prague to Dresden 

5 

Dubrovnik

Dick Dixon 

Nancy Siepman 

55

Testimonials 

Dick Dixon 

Villa Dubrovnik is 

“Hotel 

sensational, as is the 

entire city. Just gorgeous. I feel like I’m in 

a James Bond movie.” 

Casey F., The Dalmatian Coast 

“My favorite aspects were, as usual, the 

natural beauty. Also, Cesky Krumlov and 

Prague were extraordinary. The city tours 

were excellent. And I loved the local musicians 

who played at dinner one evening.” 

Pat B., Vienna to Prague 

“Lenka is a gem. She anticipated 

everyone's needs often before they even 

realized....!” 

Suellen B., Vienna to Prague 

“Nothing could have prepared me for the 

glacier. Had I known I would never have 

gone. As soon as we came down, I was so 

grateful that I went because it was an 

experience of a lifetime. 

I loved every aspect from the fjords, the 

farms, the forests, waterfalls, the intense 

green of land, blue of waters. 

What a great company. Thanks for giving 

me the opportunity to walk the earth 

while having every need attended to. I am 

so grateful.” 

Joan C., Norway 

“Uros and Mitja could NOT have been any 

better! They were so enthusiastic and 

helpful and interested - and love their 

country. We do now too. 

We were truly overwhelmed by the 

beauty, the accommodations, the food 

and wine, the hikes. 

I think this was my most interesting, 

beautiful walk - though probably the least 

walking (it WAS a 2) - and the most eating 

and drinking. AND WE LOVED EVERY 

MINUTE !” 

Alice M., Slovenia 

“Jana is very knowledgeable and 

thorough, she has a complete command 

of the history, folklore and regional 

customs. Lenka has been fabulous 

and professional.” 

Judy J., Vienna to Prague 

“As always, the Leader and Manager 

make the difference between a good trip 

and a wonderful trip.” 

Laurette B., Slovenia 

“Wonderful - nice, nice people, took great 

care of us - felt safe & like they could 

handle any emergency. Great reps for 

Wayfarers & their countries. Ante really 

knew the history and we learned a lot 

about the country and its history as we 

walked. The boat trips and the dinners 

were all memorable and added to the 

adventures of the entire week’s walk.” 

Joe C. & Barbara M., The Dalmatian Coast 

“The hotels! Rooms with views of the 

fjords were stupendous!” 

Bonnie D., Norway 

56 



Winter 

Tyrolean Alps 

Hiking or 

cross-country skiing 

Austria 

• Choice of cross-country skiing or 

hiking the trails in the winter 

wonderland of the Austrian Tirol 

• Visit the storybook city of Salzburg, 

have dinner and attend a concert at 

the world-famous Mozarteum 

• Take a toboggan ride as night falls 

over the snowfields 

• Relax with a luxury spa treatment at 

our hotel 

• Discover Tyrolean tradition, culture 

and crafts 

NEW 

Meet in Salzburg and travel by coach to the 

Hotel Unterlechner in St. Jakob in Haus. Welcome 

talk and drink before dinner at the hotel. 

Overnight Sunday through Friday: 

St. Jakob in Haus, Hotel Unterlechner 

Skiers will receive their equipment before 

a training session with our instructor. The 

remainder of the morning is spent skiing before 

meeting the rest of the group in St Jakob for lunch. 

Walkers walk through the valley to St Ulrich, the 

next village and on to St Adolari, the oldest church 

in the Tirol. Return by bus to meet the skiers for 

lunch. In the afternoon the whole group catches 

the train to the pretty baroque town of St Johann 

in Tirol for a visit. Dinner in our hotel. 

A morning lesson for the skiers, followed 

by skiing to Hochfilzen. The whole group meets 

there for lunch and the skiers return to the hotel 

via a different route. The walkers will hike up 

Buchensteinwand and visit the cross at the top 

with its fantastic panorama. After coffee in the 

alpine Gasthaus they take the chairlift down and 

travel by bus to Hochfilzen, walking back to the 

hotel along the Pillersee valley. In the evening a 

magical toboggan trip will work up an appetite 

for a gourmet dinner at our hotel. 


The skiers set off 

before meeting the walkers for 

lunch in the village. After a 

hike in the mountains, the 

walkers will return to the 

village for lunch. In the afternoon 

we have free time and 

the chance to have a spa treatment. 

Late afternoon we travel 

to Salzburg for an early dinner 

followed by a concert at the 

Mozarteum (or similar venue). 

Return to our hotel. 

The skiers will enjoy a different run before meeting 

the walkers for lunch in an alpine Gasthof. In the afternoon 

walkers and skiers take a winter walk followed by an evening 

of typical Tyrolean culture. 

Skiers head out from the hotel while walkers circle the 

Europa Weg around the Pillersee Valley. The group meets for 

lunch, then continues to Rosenegg and has tea at Elisabeth's 

cake shop. Walk back to hotel for our Farewell Dinner. 

Leave the hotel at 9:30am for Salzburg, arriving at the 

Airport by 11:00 am, followed by a second drop-off at the Rail 

Station in the city center. 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Downhill Skiing Snowshoeing Massage/Spa Swimming 


Arrival: Salzburg 

Departure: Salzburg 

Terrain: Mountain paths, meadow tracks 

and rolling hills at altitudes up to 

6,000 feet. 

4-8 miles walking or 

skiing per day. 






2016 Dates: 

March 6-12 


57

Germany 

Austria 

• Panoramic views of Bavaria and 

Austria from Germany's highest 

mountain 

• Visit King Ludwig II's palaces 

• Sample Bavaria's legendary beer 

• See Oberammergau, home of the 

Passion Play 

• Dine in the oldest restaurant in 

Europe 

Explore this historic 

region where Bavaria 

meets Austria - mountains 

in all directions, sparkling 

sapphire lakes, fairytale castles 

and storybook villages - and 

food, delicious food! 

Bavaria & 

Tyrolean Alps 

NEW 

Alpine perfection and fairytale palaces 

Our itinerary reflects the wide 

variety of landscape and culture 

of these intriguingly similar, but different, 

neighbours, where the old traditions are still 

very much a part of daily life. 

We hear the story of King Ludwig ll, sometimes 

known as The Dream King and sometimes as 

The Mad King. We visit the opulent jewel of 

Linderhof, his favorite palace. 

In Austria’s Tyrolean Alps we stay in a familyrun 

hotel in charming St. Jakob in Haus and 

dine in Salzburg in St. Peters Keller, Europe’s 

oldest restaurant. 

Schloss Linderhof 

We meet at the Railway Station in Garmisch- 

Partenkirchen and take the mountain railway, the 

Zugspitzbahn, to the charming alpine village of 

Grainau. We walk to the lovely Hotel Waxenstein 

where, after time to enjoy the stunning mountain 

views from the balcony of our rooms or a swim in 

the indoor pool, we meet for an Introductory Talk 

and a Welcome Dinner. 

Overnight: Grainau, Romantik Hotel Waxenstein 

We set off after breakfast and walk above 

the village of Grainau to Lake Eibsee facing the 

Zugspitze. Continuing around the lake, we then 

tackle the lower slopes of the highest mountain in 

Germany. Later in the afternoon we reach a little 

mountain railway which will take us up to the peak 

at nearly 3,000 meters. After absorbing the breathtaking 

views across Bavaria and into Austria, we 

return over the glacier by cable car to the middlestation 

and walk back to the hotel after a long but 

satisfying day on the hills. 

Overnight: Grainau, Romantik Hotel Waxenstein 

We bid farewell to the Zugspitze as we 

embark on our exciting walk through the mountains 

to the valley of Ettal, where we will visit the Schloss 

Linderhof, one of the palaces built by the Dream 

King, Ludwig ll. We continue to our hotel in the 

village of Ettal, belonging to one of the largest of 

58

Germany 

Austria 

View from Zugspitze 

many monasteries in Bavaria (where they still make 

their own beer), for dinner and overnight. 

Overnight: Ettal, Klosterhotel Ludwig Der Bayer 

We visit the beautiful monastery church 

next to our hotel and then we set off from Ettal to 

the village of Oberammergau, famous for the 

Passion Play performed every 10 years. After lunch 

and time to wander in the village, we drive across 

the border into Austria and fashionable Kitzbühel 

for dinner and overnight. 

Overnight: Kitzbühel, Hotel Kaiserhof 

After a short tour of the lovely town, its 

elegant shops and the Frauenkirche with its 

massive square tower, we walk the peaceful heights 

of the Kitzbuhel Alps along the old Roman Way, for 

a late lunch in Hirschberg (where the specialty is 

Mummy's Cakes!). We take the train from St Johann 

to Fieberbrunn and walk to our lovely family-run 

hotel in St Jakob in Haus. 

Overnight: St. Jakob in Haus, Hotel Unterlechner 

We ascend to the top of the mountain by 

chairlift to visit the extraordinary Jakobskreuz Cross 

and admire the spectacular view. We walk on to 

Fieberbrunn for lunch at Elisabeth's Konditorei 

(leave room for the irresistible cakes!) and back 

over the hill to our hotel. 

Overnight: St. Jakob in Haus, Hotel Unterlechner 

Dick Dixon 

We walk to the village of Waidring for lunch and 

continue beside the babbling Salzach River to magical 

Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart and home to the Sound of 

Music. Our Farewell Dinner is in the St Peter Keller, reputedly 

the oldest restaurant in Europe. 

Overnight: Salzburg, Hotel Altstadt 

You may wish to have breakfast at leisure before 

exploring more of Salzburg on your own. Departure this 

morning is based on individuals own arrangements. 

Arrival: Garmisch-Partenkirchen 

Departure: Salzburg 

Terrain: Easy to moderate with 

occasional challenges, walking on 

firm ground. Forest trails, palace 

gardens, colorful village streets. 







2016 Dates: 


59

Norway 

• Hike across the blue ice of the 

Folgefonna glacier 

• Taste local apple cider and 

‘brown cheese’ on the farms 

• The Hardanger Folk Museum 

• Hike the ‘Fruit Trail’ 

• Visit Tyssedal and discover the 

power of the mountains 

We meet in Bergen and take the ferry to 

Balestrand, on the longest of Norway's waterways, the 

Sognefjord. 

Overnight: Balestrand, Hotel Kviknes 

We take a taxi transfer up the mountain and 

start our day's walk surrounded by unbelievable 

scenery. We descend gently, pausing at a Ciderhus to 

sample the local specialty, and, after a heritage walk 

through the village, return to our hotel in the early 

evening. 


We leave the hotel by minibus for today’s 

walk along the Gaularfjell. After lunch at a mountain 

farm, we enjoy spectacular views of the tumbling river. 

Before dinner at our hotel we enjoy a talk from Mr 

Kviknes, our hotelier, to hear the story of his family 

home, one of Kaiser Wilhelm’s favorite places. 


We cross the fjord to see traditional dwellings 

and hear about the early way of life before visiting a 

piece of Norwegian heritage – the 12th century Staves 

Geiranger Fjord 

Bergen & 

the Western Fjords 

Jostedal 

Church at Hoppestad. We visit a farm to sample 

the famed Brunost, or brown cheese. After lunch 

we reach Lofthus, where we set off along the 

‘Fruit Trail’, through the many orchards of 

Norway's largest fruit growing area. Before dinner 

we hear a talk on Norway’s part in World War II. 

Overnight: Loftus, Hotel Ullensvang 

We transfer to Kinsarvik, where our 

path leads us up along the Husedalen to reach 

the magnificent waterfalls for a picnic lunch. We 

ferry across the water to Utne, to visit the openair 

Hardanger Folk museum and an enchanting 

recital from the famous Hardanger fiddles, before 

returning by water to our hotel. 

Overnight: Loftus, Hotel Ullensvang 

Colorful Bryggen 

Spectacular fjords and 

unforgettable scenery 

Today we visit Tyssedal, walking up from the 

village with wonderful views of Odda and of the 

Folgefonna glacier. We walk up to the Lilletopp, or ‘little 

top’, and visit the Norwegian Museum of Hydropower. 

After lunch we hike back down to Lofthus. 

Overnight: Lofthus, Ullensvang Hotel 

We take the boat from Lofthus to the pretty village 

of Herand, and on to Jondal to reach the glacier plateau. 

At Folgefonna we begin our three-hour blue ice trail - the 

challenge of the week, and where the views are unbelievable. 

We return to the hotel for our Farewell Dinner. 

Overnight: Lofthus, Ullensvang Hotel 

We transfer to Voss, where we say goodbye at the 

rail station for trains to Oslo or Bergen. 

Dick Dixon Dick Dixon 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Terje Rakke/Nordic life - Visitnorway.com 

Arrival: Bergen 

Departure: Voss 

Terrain: Mountain trails and tracks with 

some moderate ascents and descents. 

Walking pleasantly balanced with 

boat and train journeys. 



Fishing Golf Horseback riding 





2016 Dates: 

July 2-9, 

September 3-10

Slovenia 

Mountains, lakes and 

unspoiled rural life 

• Incredible caves and river canyons 

• Pure mountain air of the Julian Alps 

• Discover beautiful Lake Bled and 

Lake Bohinj 

• Strong local culture, unchanged for 

centuries 

• Spectacular natural landscape 

Slovenia 

Rendezvous in Ljubljana. We enjoy an 

aperitif before an Intro ductory Talk and 

Welcome Dinner. 

Overnight: Ljubljana, Hotel Grand Union 

An easy start brings us to Rakov 

Skocjan. We admire the natural bridge and the 

little canyon, carved by water over thousands 

of years. We walk along the river banks and 

have lunch in a restaurant in the woods. In the 

afternoon, we follow the river Reka underground 

into the Skocjan Cave, a spectacular 

World Heritage Site. 

Overnight: Spodnja Idrija, Hotel Kendov dvorec 

A beautiful meander with views to the Julian 

Alps. We pass hamlets and farms in an open landscape. 

After lunch in a farmhouse in a small village we 

continue to attractive Idrija with its 

16th-century castle and famous lace school. 

Overnight: Spodnja Idrija, Hotel Kendov dvorec 

After seeing Europe's largest wooden water 

wheel that was used for pumping water from Idrija's 

mercury mine, we walk along the river Idrijca to the 

mysterious Black lake. A short drive brings us to Cerkno 

where we visit the secret partisan hospital Franja. After 

lunch we drive along the verdant valley to Most na Soči 

to catch the train on the ancient Transalpina Line, built 

at the time of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Our train 

journey passes through beautiful scenery and a tunnel 

which is almost 4 miles long, and ends at the Bohinjska 

Bistrica valley where we find our hotel. 

Overnight: Bohinjsko Jezero, Bohinj Park Eco Hotel 

We walk from the picturesque 

hamlet of Kupljenik, enjoying grand 

views of Lake Bled and the surrounding countryside, 

through woods and fields to the River Sava. On to 

enchanting Lake Bled and our hotel situated on its shore. We 

walk around the lake to visit Bled Castle and take Afternoon 

Tea on the terrace. 

Overnight: Bled, Grand Hotel Toplice 

We walk to the stunning Vintgar Gorge, a 500-ft high 

defile accessible via a continuous chain of gantries and 

bridges to a waterfall, and on to a village lunch. We walk on 

through open country to Bled, in time to take an afternoon 

cruise to Bled Island. 

Overnight: Bled, Grand Hotel Toplice 

We return to Ljubljana for our onward connections. 

Lake Bled 

Ljubljana market 

A ferry takes us to the western end of Lake 

Bohinj, where the 190-ft Savica Waterfall majestically 

tumbles into the water below. We walk beside the lake 

and on through delight ful historic villages; we visit the 

museum of Alpine Cheese Making and a 17th-century 

farmhouse. Hayracks, called toplars and unique to 

Slovenia, are scattered across the landscape. 

Overnight: Bohinjsko Jezero, Bohinj Park Eco Hotel 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Arrival: Ljubljana 

Departure: Ljubljana 

Terrain: Well-trodden paths, 

comfortable underfoot, with 

a wide variety of flat and 

hilly terrain. 



Horseback Riding Fishing Paragliding Golf Balloon Ride 





2016 Dates: 


61

Croatia 

• Experience the Mediterranean as 

it used to be 

• Explore the islands of Lopud, 

Hvar and Brac 

• Stay in the old city of Dubrovnik, 

a location in 'A Game of Thrones' 

• Visit Emperor Diocletian's Palace, 

an amazing UNESCO World 

Heritage Site 

• Fabulous fresh seafood, cooked 

in simple, local style 

The Dalmatian Coast 

Croatia's beautiful walled city, 

Dubrovnik, is the starting 

point for this journey 

through one of Europe's most 

diverse and beautiful countries. As 

we travel northwards, our path 

takes us through cypress woods, 

along coastal headlands and rural tracks, into 

dramatic gorges and along rambling streets. 

The sparkling sea views and sleepy harbor 

villages, with their milk-white limestone 

buildings, are the perfect environment for the 

steady pace of life and relaxed café culture. It 

becomes apparent that Croatia is still the 

authentic and uncommercialized Medi - 

terranean associated with a bygone era. We 

also gain an insight into the break up of Yugo - 

slavia and spend time in places which were 

directly affected by the early 1990's war as 

well as driving through the neighboring coast 

of Bosnia & Herzegovina. 

Highlights of this Walk include a private boattrip 

from the foot of Vidova Gora Mountain, 

which takes us to a secluded terrace restaurant 

overlooking the sea where we dine on 

fresh fish caught that morning, and a fasci- 

Islands, sleepy villages 

and shining seas 

nating walking tour of Diocletian's 

Palace which houses the most wellpreserved 

Roman buildings in Split and 

which forms the heart of today's city. 

The Croatian cuisine focuses on locally 

caught fish, traditionally produced olive 

oil and organic vegetables, washed down 

with homemade brandies and wines. 

And, as the average height of men from 

Dalmatia is 6 feet, the food portions tend 

to match the height! 

You will return home having explored 

the homeland of the neck tie, The 

'Cravat', the region where the Dalmatian 

dog got its identity, the island of the 

man who made the first working parachute 

and the country which treasures 

Europe's second oldest synagogue in 

Dubrovnik and the third oldest in Split. 

Dubrovnik 

Arrive at Dubrovnik Airport and rendezvous at our hotel for 

our Introductory Talk and Welcome Dinner. 

Overnight: Dubrovnik, Hotel Villa Dubrovnik 

Our walk gives us headland views of the sea and the terracotta-roofed 

town of Cavtat. In the afternoon we walk the city 

walls surrounding Dubrovnik and explore the squares and tiny 

streets before returning to our hotel. Dinner in a local restaurant. 

Overnight: Dubrovnik, Hotel Villa Dubrovnik 

A morning boat trip takes us to explore the island of 

Lopud. Our launch returns us to the mainland at Ston where we 

62

Croatia 

walk the impressive medieval fortification walls 

overlooking ancient salt-pans. We continue to our 

hotel in Mali Ston, a sleepy village of old stone 

houses. Time to enjoy our hotel, facing the little 

harbor, before dinner. 

Overnight: Mali Ston, Hotel Ostrea 

Traveling by bus from our hotel, the scenic 

Adriatic road takes us to a port where we board a 

boat to Hvar. We spend the day exploring this 

authentic Croatian island with only a few inland 

villages. We lunch in an olive grove at a family run 

tavern where all the food is home made and the 

ingredients organically grown. Afterwards we walk 

to Hvar Town and our hotel. 

Overnight: Hvar, Hotel Adriana 

A private speedboat takes us to Brac to 

start our slow ascent alongside terraced stone walls 

Exploring Roman Emperor Diocletian’s palace 

to Skrip, the oldest village on the island. 

After hearing about it's unique history 

we'll head to a family home for an unforgettable 'farm to 

table' lunch. Our walk then takes us by vineyards and olive 

groves enjoying the extensive views across the terraced 

ridges of the Mosor Massif and distant mainland as we 

follow the paths down to Supetar. 

Overnight: Supetar, Villa Vela Luka 

We drive to the Vidova Gora mountaintop to 

start our descent on foot down a gorge to the remote Blaca 

Monastery where a local guide explains its fascinating 

history. We continue to an isolated bay where we are met 

by a private boat which takes us to a secluded, sheltered 

terrace restaurant overlooking the sea. 

Overnight: Supetar, Villa Vela Luka 

The morning ferry takes us to Split, a vibrant city 

with a former palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian. 

From subterranean halls to the splendid cathedral we 

discover the Old Town. Later we join the passeggiata on the 

Riva, where the locals congregate to meander and gossip, 

before our Farewell Dinner. 

Overnight: Split, Hotel Marmont 

Enjoy excellent shopping and sightseeing independently 

in Split before making your way to the airport. 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Arrival: Dubrovnik 

Departure: Split 

Terrain: Drovers' tracks, wooded 

paths, some rocky trails and descents. 



Swimming 

Water Sports 





2016 Dates: 

May 14-21, October 1-8 

October 15-22 

63


• Nature reserves with medieval 

ruins and wonderful wild flowers 

• Sample Czech beer and try a 

Moravian wine tasting 

• Walk through ancient Moravia 

and Bohemia 

• Explore Prague 

• Visit Český Krumlov, a UNESCO 

World Heritage Site and one of 

Europe's loveliest cities 

Vienna to Prague 

Meet The Wayfarers for a tour 

of the Old City in Vienna and then a 

transfer to Lednice for our Intro - 


Overnight: Lednice, My Hotel 

The Charles Bridge, Prague 


In the morning we visit Mikulov, situated in the 

heart of Moravia's wine region, and we walk through its 

small town centre. We continue to nearby Palava Hills, 

a splendid nature reserve with medieval ruins, rare 

flowers and distant views. In the afternoon we return 

to Lednice and visit its château. We end our day in a 

typical wine cellar with local food and folk music. 

Overnight: Lednice, My Hotel 

We drive westwards to another wine region 

around Znojmo. Here we walk along the river Thaya 

(Dyje), which forms the natural border with Austria, and 

its unique, untouched valley has become the National 

Park Thayatal (Podyjí). We end our day in Znojmo with a 

picturesque and quiet historic center, not yet discovered 

by tourists. 

Overnight: Znojmo, Hotel Lahofer 

lunch in a local fish restaurant, we journey on to 

Český Krumlov, one of Europe’s most beautiful and 

best-preserved towns. 

Overnight: Český Krumlov, Hotel Ruze 

Guided tour of the castle, one of the largest 

in Central Europe, originally constructed in the 13th 

Century. After this, we walk beside the Vltava Moldau 

River to Zlat Koruna, a rustic village with a 13th 

century Cistercian monastery. 

Overnight: Český Krumlov, Hotel Ruze 

Transfer by bus from Český Krumlov to spend 

the day exploring the center of Prague. After lunch, 

we walk across the bridge to the Old Town to see the 

famous astronomical clock on the medieval Town 

Hall and continue to the far end of the Coronation 

Route where we find the Gothic Powder Tower. We end 

our day in a fine restaurant for our Farewell Dinner. 

Overnight: Prague, Hotel Leonardo 

There is no scheduled transfer at the end of this 

walk as many Wayfarers opt to stay longer in Prague 

to explore this splendid city further. 

Our day starts with a drive to Slavonice, a 

small historic town where time stopped centuries ago. 

After a lunch we drive on to Telč, a Renaissance jewel, 

listed by UNESCO. We finish our day at Jindřichův 

Hradec (Henry's Castle) where we stay in a hotel in the 

central square. 

Overnight: Jindřichův Hradec, Hotel Concertino 

We walk through forests and past numerous 

lakes to the little town of Trebon with its colourful 

historic buildings, cobblestone streets and moat. After 

64 

Arrival: Vienna City 

Air Terminal, Austria 

Departure: Prague 

Terrain: Forest walks and open 

country, firm paths with some 

brisk hill-walking. 



Market 





2016 Dates: 



Massage/Spa Antique Shopping 


Crossroads of 

Europe Tour: 

Book the 

whole journey ~ 

from Vienna 

...to Prague 

...to Dresden


Prague to Dresden 

We meet in Prague and drive to our hotel 

in Jitrava for our Welcome Dinner and Intro - 

ductory Talk. 

Overnight: Jitrava, Hotel Jitrava 

This morning's walk takes us along the 

Poacher’s Trail across open countryside with 

views to Poland. We drive to the former mining 

village of Krystofovo údolí (Christopher's Valley) 

where we visit a unique painted wooden church 

and timber-framed houses. After lunch we drive to 

the top of Jeschke mountain. 

Overnight: Jitrava, Hotel Jitrava 

The Bastei pedestrian bridge, Saxon Switzerland 

Landscape of artists and poets 

Walk from the hotel along forest trails to 

Lemberk Castle for a tour of this historic building. We 

lunch in a traditional inn and then head to the top of 

Hvozd where we enjoy amazing views before 

walking down to the hotel. 

Overnight: Lückendorf, Altes Kurhaus 

Walk to Oybin from the hotel, sightseeing 

tour of the castle and church, and walk on to 

Jonsdorf (lunch) and then to Walters dorf – sightseeing 

tour of the Umgebinde hauser. Shuttle back to the 

hotel by van. 

Overnight: Lückendorf, Altes Kurhaus 

Procession of the (Saxon) Princes in Meissen porcelain in Dresden 

• Cruise on the mighty River Elbe 

• Explore dramatic mountain 

landscapes 

• Admire the magnificent restoration of 

Baroque Dresden 

• Guided boat tour up Prebischtor 

Gorge 

• Picture-postcard villages of unspoiled 

timber-framed houses 

We drive west to 

'Czech Switzerland' and 

hike to Pravcicka Gate, 

the longest natural sandstone 

arch in Europe . 

In the afternoon we 

go down to the valley of Kamenice 

River, where we take a boat along the 

gorge, before crossing the border 

back to Germany. 

Overnight: Bad Schandau, 

Park Hotel 

We take the famous Bad 

Schandau elevator to get a lovely 

view of the Elbe before walking 

to Schillers monument at the beginning of 

the beautiful Kirnitzschtal. After lunch , our 

walk continues up to Lichtenhain and its waterfall 

where we catch the circa 1898 narrow gauge 

tram back to Bad Schandau. 

Overnight: Bad Schandau, Park Hotel 

En route to Dresden we visit the famous hilltop 

fortress at Konigstein. We tour the center of Dresden before 

a lunch cruise on the River Elbe followed by an afternoon 

at leisure. In the evening we gather for our Farewell 

Dinner. 

Overnight: Dresden, Gewandhaus Dresden 

Departure at leisure. 

than 1! >> 

Special Price 

US$ 8,150 

(per person 


occupancy) 


Arrival: Prague 

Departure: Dresden 

Terrain: Forest paths, 

open country and 

meadows. Some hill 

walking. Rock steps with 

railings. 



Swimming 

Massage/Spa 

Canoeing 





2016 Dates: 

June 5-12, 


65

Ellen Barone 

2 

1 

3 

USA 

Argentina 

4 

66 

0 miles 1000

Roy Robinson 

Andrea Schaffell 

Ellen Barone 

New Zealand 

5 

1 Colorado 

2 Utah 

3 New Mexico 

0 miles 200 

4 Patagonia 

5 New Zealand 

67

Testimonials 

Ellen Barone 

Sally Baker 

I love about hiking 

“What 

with the Wayfarers is 

the opportunity to spend time with other 

people who love this kind of travel as 

much as I do. It’s the chance to talk oneon-one 

with each other as we walk/hike, 

huff and puff up a hill, sit down for a meal, 

etc. But it’s also a chance to walk alone, 

within the group, and just be with my own 

thoughts. 

I’m already trying to decide where my 

next Wayfarers Walk will be. 

Thank you again for all that you do….a 

Wayfarers walk is simply one of the best 

ways to spend a week of my life. I love it.” 

Bobbie R., New Mexico 

“Tom & Mo were wonderful!! Very knowledgable 

about the area, geography, 

geology along with the plants and animals 

indigenous to the area. They were just as 

enthused seeing and experiencing the 

day's activities as was our group. It is 

always nice being greeted by cheerful 

people each day who are excited to share 

their love of walking and the majestic 

beauty of the areas we visited during the 

week. I give them both accolades for how 

the trip was arranged and handled!” 

Patti D., New Mexico 

“John Knox is an intelligent, caring and 

kind individual with a great sense of 

humor and a depth of knowledge about 

New Zealand culture, geography, flora and 

fauna. He is one of the best guides we 

have ever had on any guided trip. He has 

organized this trip with great care to 

show the diversity of New Zealand's 

landscape and I appreciated his leadership 

of the group. I loved this trip. I had 

heard of the "legend" of John Knox and it 

is all true.” 

Barbara H., New Zealand 

"Eolo Lodge was spectacular, but El Pilar 

was special in a different way - more 

down-home, with wonderful staff and 

how did they get such a terrific chef out 

in the middle of nowhere?" 

Stephanie M., Patagonia 

“The camaraderie was my favorite and I 

thoroughly enjoyed all of the walks in 

Bryce. (My favorite park). However all 

walks were breathtaking.” 

Jill A., Utah 

"I feel lucky to have had such an 

enthusiastic and accommodating guide 

through Patagonia. Her sudden outbursts 

of song, nightly history lessons and 

all-round good humor were appreciated 

by all." 

Stephanie M., Patagonia 

“The accommodations, the hikes, the food, 

etc. were all wonderful. The views of the 

mountains on our hikes, and the feeling 

of being in old Colorado, it was all such 

an adventure and we loved it. So glad we 

found Wayfarers.” 

J & M J, Colorado 

68 


United States 

Colorado 

Summertime adventure 

in wilderness mountains 

• Walk amid amazing wildflower 

meadows 

• Visit the cave dwellings of Ancient 

Pueblo Indians 

• High, rugged mountain peaks with 

spectacular views 

• Tour historic gold and silver 

mining towns 

• Soak in some of the world’s best 

hot springs 

Rendezvous in Durango a historic mining 

town at the base of the towering San Juan 

Mountains, a collection of jagged peaks overlooking 

the vast Colorado Plateau canyon country. 


Overnight: Durango, 

The Leland House & Rochester Hotel 

We hike among the cliff dwellings of the 

ancestors of the Pueblo Indians in Mesa Verde 

National Park overlooking the Navajo Nation. Most 

Pueblo Indians Cliff dwellings 

of the cliff dwellings are around 

800 years old and range in size 

from one-room houses to 

villages of more than 200 rooms. 

Overnight: Durango, 

The Leland House & Rochester Hotel 

Walk to Andrews Lake 

through an amazing mountain wilderness 

with views of majestic 14,000-feet peaks. In 

the afternoon we drive to Silverton in the 

historic mining district of the San Juan 

Mountains. This area is strewn with old 

mines from the late 1800s perched on the 

side of colorful mountains. We walk in 

the downtown area of Silverton amid 

authentic 19th century buildings. 

Overnight: Silverton, 

The Wyman Hotel & Inn 

Hike to the high alpine 

beauty of Porphyry Basin on the top 

of Red Mountain Pass where redorange 

peaks guard the divide between 

the Telluride Basin and the majestic 

Grenadier Range. We enjoy incredible views and 

a colorful tapestry of wildflowers. 

Overnight: Silverton, The Wyman Hotel & Inn 

We walk the Highland Mary trail with wildflowers 

galore and many high lakes on the Continental Divide. We 

admire breathtaking views of glistening lakes set amid a 

broad expanse of rolling tundra. There’s the option of a mine 

tour before we drive to Pagosa Springs and the chance to 

soak in our hotel’s 23 hot spring pools. 

Overnight: Pagosa Springs, The Springs Resort & Spa 

We walk through aspen groves and towering pines to 

sublime waterfalls with views of dramatic volcanic cliffs on 

the edge of the Weminuche Wilderness. We return to our 

wonderful hotel with another chance to soak in the hot 

spring pools before our Farewell Dinner. 

Overnight: Pagosa Springs, The Springs Resort & Spa 

The Wayfarers transfer you to Durango for flights 

home or to extend your stay in southern Colorado 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Arrival: Durango 

Departure: Durango 

Terrain: A strenuous but 

rewarding Walk! Walking at 

altitude - between 9,000 and 

13,000 feet - on well marked mountain 

trails with some steep ascents and descents. 


Massage/Spa 





2016 Dates: 

July 10-16 


Fishing 

Tip: Plan to arrive early to get used to the altitude before the start of your Walk. 

69

United States 

• Dawn walk to sunrise point in 

Bryce Canyon 

• Hike the Narrows Walk to 

Weeping Rock in Zion Canyon 

• Take the Widforss Trail in Grand 

Canyon 

• Unforgettable sunset views 

• Visit three of USA's greatest 

national parks 

Utah 

D ay 1 Rendezvous in St George, The Grand Canyon, 

enjoy lunch together and drive to the 

North Rim of the Grand Canyon. We Bryce & Zion 

admire unforgettable sunset views of 

The Canyon followed by our Intro - 


Overnight: Grand Canyon Lodge, North Rim 

D ay 2 We enjoy a scenic hike on the Widforss Trail 

along the rim of the Grand Canyon. In the afternoon 

we drive to the only view of the Colorado River from 

the North Rim and enjoy an easy walk with incomparable 

scenery. 

Overnight: Grand Canyon Lodge, North Rim 

D ay 3 An after breakfast walk along the rim of the 

Transept Canyon and then we're off to Bryce Canyon. 

Lunch in the old western movie town of Kanab. A brief 

visit to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, the largest in 

North America. We motor through some spectacular Red 

Rock Country to Bryce Canyon National Park and walk 

the rim trail in the late afternoon light before enjoying 

dinner at the lodge. 

Overnight: Bryce Canyon Lodge 

D ay 4 You may join early-rising Wayfarers for a 

short dawn walk to Sunrise Point, where we'll watch 

the sun ignite the altar candles in the great rock cathedral. 

Fantastic! Our morning walk will take us deeper 

into Bryce Canyon where hoodoos abound. After lunch 

Bryce Canyon 

we drive to the highest points in Bryce with breathtaking 

views, then walk along the rim. 

Overnight: Bryce Canyon Lodge 

D ay 5 We head for Zion along a scenic drive stopping 

for a short walk along the Overlook Trail, then 

down to the Lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, we 

hike the famed Narrows Walk, visit Weeping Rock, 

and end the day at the Human History Museum and 

Zion Visitor Center. Giddy-up and join the locals for 

an evening at the Bit and Spur Saloon. 

Overnight: Springdale, Flanigan's Inn 

D ay 6 Hike up to the Watchman Trail with 

outstanding views of the colorful expanse of Zion 

Canyon. After lunch, relax by the pool, stroll the 

shops of Springdale or cross the handsome suspension 

bridge for an afternoon walk to Emerald Pools to 

view its three waterfalls. Our Farewell Dinner is 

elegantly served at Flanigan's Inn. 

Overnight: Springdale, Flanigan's Inn 

D ay 7 After breakfast, we return to St George for 


Ellen Barone 

Optional 

Opportunities 

70 

California Condor 

Arrival: St George 

Departure: St George 

Terrain: Hiking at altitudes 

between 4,000 and 8,000 feet 

on well maintained forest and 

canyon trails with no sustained 

elevation gain of more than 400 feet. 

Some additional physical conditioning to 

prepare for higher elevation walking is advisable. 



Horseback riding 





2016 Dates: 




New Mexico 

United States 

• Walk amid scenery immortalized in 

Georgia O'Keeffe's paintings 

• Learn about the flora, fauna and 

geology of the high desert 

• Visit 800-year-old cliff dwellings 

• See Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World 

Heritage Site, with a native guide 

• Cross the Rio Grande 650 feet above 

the river 

Ellen Barone 

Rankin Harvey 

Rendezvous in Santa Fe and visit the Georgia 

O’Keeffe Museum and enjoy a walking tour of historic 

downtown Santa Fe, a capital city since 1610. The 

Introductory Talk and Welcome Dinner is at La Casa Sena. 

Overnight: Santa Fe, Inn on the Alameda 

We drive northwest across the Rio Grande valley 

to the Jemez Mountains, an unusual volcanic range that 

harbors the ruins, cliff dwellings and petroglyphs of the 

Ancestral Puebloan Indians. We walk a forested route 

through Frijoles Canyon. 

Overnight: Santa Fe, Inn on the Alameda 

We hike in the Rocky 

Mountains, also called the 

Sangre de Cristo, just east 

of Santa Fe. Enjoy the 

fresh mountain air and learn 

about the geology, flora and fauna of this 

region. We stop at the famous Sanctuario de 

Chimayo, a major pilgrimage site, and visit 

the Centinela weaving studio, which has 

been worked by the award-winning Trujillo 

family for seven generations. 

Overnight: Abiquiu, Abiquiu Inn 

Ancient Land 

of Enchantment 

We visit the Chama River overlook 

and then spend the day at nearby 

Ghost Ranch. We take our time to make 

the ascent to Chimney Rock, with unforgettable 

views of the colorful desert and 

Cerro Pedernal, the flat-topped mountain 

which featured prominently in O’Keeffe’s paintings. 

After a picnic lunch, either walk into Box Canyon or visit 

the paleontology museum. 

Overnight: Abiquiu, Abiquiu Inn 

A morning walk and then we’ll drive further north 

on our journey. We lunch in the historic Ojo Caliente Springs 

Resort. We check into our B&B before heading out on the 

town for dinner in Taos. 

Overnight: Taos, Inn on La Loma Plaza 

We’ll visit Taos Pueblo, the oldest 

continuously inhabited dwelling in the USA. A native Pueblo 

Guide will give us a tour of this historic village, sharing a bit 

about the Pueblo customs that are still a big part of this 

living culture. Our afternoon hike is among 

shimmering aspen forests and beside 

clear, cold streams. 

Overnight: Taos, 

Inn on La Loma Plaza 

Arrival: Santa Fe 

Departure: Taos 

Terrain: Mostly good trails, 

sometimes rocky in places, 

with elevation gains of 300-800 ft. 

Altitude to 9,000 ft. 



Optional 

Massage/Spa 


(US$3,130 Wayfarers’ Friends) 



2016 Dates: 


Opportunities 


Ellen Barone 

A farewell breakfast at our 

lovely B&B and then travelers 

can opt to shuttle back to 

Santa Fe or Albuquerque, or 

to stay on to soak up the southwest 

for a little bit longer. 

Ellen Barone 

71

Argentina 

• Magnificent, unspoiled open 

landscapes 

• Cruise to the foot of the aweinspiring 

Perito Moreno Glacier 

• Stay in two very different remote 

estancias (ranches) 

• Visit Los Glacieres National Park, 

a UNESCO World Heritage Site 

• Hike the Mount Fitz Roy Trail 

Stephanie Martin 

Patagonia 

D ay 1 Meet at El Calafate Airport 

and transfer our hotel for our 


Overnight: El Calafate, Hotel Kau Yatun 

D ay 2 We head out of town on the famous Route 40 

bound for El Chalten. En route we stop at La Leona, the 

inn made famous as the one time hiding place of Butch 

Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, and may sample their 

famous lemon pie. We spend the afternoon walking in 

the stunning landscape dominated by the peak to 

Mount Fitzroy and the wild beauty of the borderlands 

between Argentina and Chile. 

Overnight: El Chalten, Hotel Don Los Cerros 

D ay 3 On the Fitz Roy Trail today we follow the 

river and climb with ever-wider views of Mount Fitz 

Roy and its glacier - a thrilling day’s hike to the accompaniment 

of rushing waters . We finish our route in El 

The Remote Paradise 


Chalten where we have time for a well-earned beer 

or an ice cream. 

Overnight: El Chalten, Hotel Don Los Cerros 

D ay 4 We leave El Chalten bound for Lake 

Viedma and a very special stay at a family-owned 

estancia. On arrival at Helsingfors we are welcomed 

with a traditional asado (barbeque) for lunch 

followed by a gentle afternoon of walking absorbing 

the peace and beauty of our surroundings. 

Overnight: Lake Viedma, Estancia Helsingfors 

D ay 5 We set out on full day’s hike to the Blue 

Lagoon from our hotel and enter the River Alfredo 

River Valley (the same river that provides energy to 

the lodge), gradually ascending by the sides of the 

Huemul Hill. After a steady 

uphill climb we reach the view 

of the lagoon, a deep bright blue, 

contrasting with the darkness of 

the mountain and the whiteness 

of the glacier. 

Overnight: Lake Viedma, 

Estancia Helsingfors 

D ay 6 We head back towards 

El Calafate and settle in our stunning 

hotel in La Anita Valley. This is a 

unique location, almost overwhelming 

in its magnificence with 360 degree 

views of the surrounding land. We visit 

the Glacier Museum and stop in its unique 

Ice Bar for aperitifs. 

Overnight: Eolo Lodge 

D ay 7 Today is one of the highlights of 

our stay in Patagonia as we take in the 

outstanding Perito Moreno 

Glacier! First, we walk the 

length of the pasarelas (catwalks) 

to marvel at vistas of this 

amazing force of nature. Then 

we board a boat at Puerto Banderas to 

get up close to the fantastic glacier. We 

sail to almost touching distance of this 

gigantic wall of ice, some 30m high 

and more than three miles long. 


D ay 8 Today we explore and exult 

in the majesty, of the lodge’s surroundings, 

hiking in the Anita Valley, along the 

river and to the heights of Mount Frias 

with unforgettable views and the 

chance to see local wildlife from 

flamingos in the valley to guanacos 

and hares in the hills. 


D ay 9 We say farewell and 

have individual transfers to El 

Calafate airport. 


Optional 

Opportunities 

72 

Arrival: El Calafate 

Departure: El Calafate 

Terrain: Well marked 

trails and paths, some 

hills with steep 

inclines/declines. 

Paths can be rocky. 

Up to 12 miles walking 

per day 

2016 



(US$ 1,295 Single Supplement) 


2016 Dates: 

January 31 - February 8 


Swimming 

Massage/Spa 

2017 





2017 Dates: 

January 31 - February 8 

Mountain Biking 


Argentina 


Four Exciting Trip Extensions to complete your Patagonian Adventure! 

Buenos Aires City Stay 

Discover the vibrant ‘Paris of South America’ with a city-stay: three nights 

including airport transfers, private guided city tour, tango show and 

boutique hotel accommodations in the fashionable Palermo District. 

Price from US$ 1,175 per person Double Occupancy in a Classic Room 

(US$ 1,975 per person Single Occupancy) 

Hiking in Torres del Paine, Chilean Patagonia 

Three, four and five nights - all inclusive program at the luxurious 

Patagonia Camp with hikes every day in the Torres del Paine Park, transfers 

to and from either El Calafate, Argentina or Puntas Arenas, Chile. 

Price from US$ 1,825 per person Double Occupancy 

(US$ 2,245 per person Single Occupancy) 

Iguazu Falls 

A Relaxing Estancia Stay near Buenos Aires 

Spend two or three nights at Estancia Cina Cina - located 70 km / 43 miles 

from Buenos Aires and five blocks from the center of the sleepy colonial 

town of San Antonio de Areco, the home of gaucho writer Ricardo 

Güiraldes. Includes transfers to and from Buenos Aires and a guided tour 

of San Antonio de Areco. 

Price from US$ 845 per person Double Occupancy 

Walk along Iguazu’s impressive collection of waterfalls and feel the mist 

from the stunning Garganta del Diablo surrounded by a tropical jungle 

which is home to a huge diversity of flora and fauna. Stay in the only 

hotel situated within the National Park or choose a luxury lodge in 

Iryapú Rainforest. Includes transfers to and from Puerto Iguazu Airport, 

National Park Fees, two nights' hotel accommodation, full day guided 

tour of the Falls and forest trails. 

Price from US$ 880 per person Double Occupancy in a Falls View Room 

(US$ 1400 Single Occupancy) 


73

New Zealand 

• Stunning coastlines, incredible 

mountains and lush rainforest 

• See movie locations for ‘Lord of 

the Rings’ and ‘Narnia’ 

• Warm welcome and the freshest 

seafood 

• Arthur's Pass National Park and 

the Southern Alps 

• Walking to the face of two 

glaciers: Franz Josef and Fox 

New Zealand 

& 

We meet in 

Picton to begin the Walk. After a 

group orientation and lunch, we take 

a coastal walk along to Bob's Bay, 

continuing along the Snout Walkway 

ridge. In the evening, we meet for our Welcome Dinner 

at the hotel. 

Next day, we take a water taxi to Mistletoe Bay and 

follow the Queen Charlotte Walkway, high on the 

dividing ridge between Kenepuru and Queen Charlotte 

Sounds with panoramic views of both Sounds. We 

hike through native forests where the birdsong of tuis, 

bell birds and fantails can be heard. 

Overnight: Picton, Beachcomber Inn 

We travel south from the Marlborough 

Sounds, between the borders of the Southern Alps and 

the eastern coastline. We stop for lunch at Kekerengu 

Roy Robinson 

Spectacular South Island 

and then explore Kaikoura, walking the Kaikoura 

Peninsula Track to our hotel. In the evening, we 

sample fresh local fish at The Pier Hotel restaurant. 

Overnight: Kaikoura, The White Morph 

& 

We depart from Kaikoura to Waipara 

towards the magnificent Southern Alps and the 

Wilderness Lodge in Arthur's Pass National Park. 

Here, there are a variety of alpine tracks to explore 

as we learn from natural history experts about the 

flora and fauna of this area, as well as visiting a 

working Merino, high-country farm. We climb up to 

Castle Hill rocks and see the beautiful landscapes 

captured on film in 'Lord of the Rings' and 'Narnia'. 

Overnight: Arthur's Pass, Wilderness Lodge 

& 

Queen Charlotte Walkway 

We travel by road, traversing the 

Southern Alps, to the West Coast and our destination 

at Lake Brunner Lodge. In Paparoa National Park we 

experience the luxuriant rainforest, where coastal 

trails take us to strange limestone formations called 

the Pancake Rocks and dramatic geyser-like blowholes. 

Our final afternoon walk takes us along the banks of 

the Porari River's impressive gorge. 

Overnight: Kumara, Lake Brunner Lodge 

Fox Glacier 

& 

Our walks include a trek 

from the rain forest to 

the face of the Franz 

Josef Glacier and a hike to the edge of Fox Glacier. Our 

accommodation in Franz Josef Glacier village is set in 

a rain forest where, after dinner, we explore a secret 

glow-worm grotto. 

On Wednesday evening, dinner is at leisure (not 

included). 

Overnight: Franz Josef Glacier, Punga Grove 

& 

We travel to Haast, pausing to 

walk the Ship Creek boardwalk through forest swamp 

and stunning West Coast beach scenery. We picnic by 

the picturesque River Haast and visit the Cascade 

74 

Roy Robinson

New Zealand 

Falls and Blue Pools. Our walks take us along Lake 

Wanaka to Glendhu Bay to experience a magical 

sunset and an afternoon walk from the lake inlet 

into the township of Wanaka. We also climb to the 

summit of Mount Iron to experience the incredible 

views of the Minaret Peaks, Mount Aspiring and the 

Otago plains. 

On Friday evening, dinner is at leisure (not 

included). 

Overnight: Wanaka, Edgewater Hotel 

& 

The final part of our journey takes 

us to Nugget Point Hotel. We explore the river walk 

at Arrowtown and, after lunch, we travel to 

Queenstown for a walk through Sunshine Valley, along 

the shores of Lake Wakatipu. 

Our final full day of walking begins with a drive to 

Glenorchy along Lake Wakatipu with stunning views of 

the Remarkable Mountains and Mount Aspiring Ranges. 

We explore the Glenorchy Lagoon boardwalk with its 

beautifully tranquil waters and birdlife. We walk a 

section of the famous Routeburn Track, through native 

beech forest, vast waterfalls and mountain peaks. We 

picnic by a babbling stream and listen to the native 

birdsong high in the beech tree-tops. We dine at the 

hotel and reminisce about the journey we have taken 

through the spectacular South Island. 

Overnight: Queenstown, Nugget Point 

Roy Robinson 

We say farewell at breakfast. 

Optional 

Opportunities 

Roy Robinson 

Hinekakai Falls 

Arrival: Picton Quayside 

Departure: Queenstown Airport 

Terrain: Good footing, some 

hills; transfers each day 

allow us to cover most of 

the island. 


Call us at 1-800-249-4620 

(US & Canada) 

2016 

Water Sports 

Painting Lesson 





2016 Dates 

March 1-14 

2017 

Fishing 

Helicopter Ride 

Golf 





2017 Dates: 

March 7-20 

Massage/Spa 

Trip price excludes 

dinner on two evenings 

when you are free to 

dine independently in 

a local restaurant: 

Wednesday in Franz 

Joseph Village and 

Friday in Wanaka. 

Roy Robinson 

75

Wayfarers 

Travel Collection 

a portfolio of very special travel experiences 

We are delighted to announce our new Wayfarers Travel 

Collection – a portfolio of very special travel experiences. 

These are vacations with a difference, operated by colleagues 

in the travel business that we know from personal experience 

and trust and who share our values of offering the highest 

levels of service and care for the places they visit. 

All the experiences are unique with an emphasis on ‘slow 

travel’ and yet very different from a walking vacation. We are 

offering them in a way that is exclusive for our Wayfarers. 

From the wonders of the Amazonian rainforest to the sun-drenched 

ancient villages of Southern France and Andalucia in Spain, we have 

hand-picked these itineraries to provide vacations in wonderful 

parts of the world – each with that extra something special. 

Fancy a trip based around an activity – riding, painting or bird 

watching? Or maybe enjoying a leisurely cruise through the French 

countryside on a luxury barge is more you. And that trip of a lifetime 

up the Amazon? Unmissable! 

Take a look at our Travel Collection and make your choice! 

Amazon Nature Tours 

on board the Tucano 

Six night Expedition Cruise 

Take a voyage to the heart of the Amazon 

on the elegant and comfortable Motor 

Yacht Tucano. 

On this very special “expedition cruise”, small 

groups explore far into the forest, exploring some 

of the most untouched rainforest in all of the 

Amazon on a journey up the Rio Negro. With 

expert, bilingual naturalist guides, get out into the 

forest on daily hikes or in small launches that 

wind their way into the uninhabited interior. 

Swim off deserted beaches, and in the depths of 

the wild rainforest spot plants, birds and mammals 

in their natural habitat. At night, take the 

launches and explore the river’s edge with spotlights 

to see caiman, close relatives of crocodiles. 

And there’s time to relax too. In the afternoon sit 

on the observation deck and enjoy hors-d'oeuvres, 

while watching magnificent sunsets. Later on, 

marvel at the millions of stars in the pitch-dark 

southern skies. 

The M/Y Tucano is built in the tradition of the old 

steamboats of the 19th century, but is an up-todate 

and modern craft with state-of-the-art navigation 

and communications. Enjoy the classical 

elegance of a bygone era, combined with the capability 

and the spirit of modern exploration. 

While on board, there is plenty of space to spread 

out and contemplate the wonders of nature. With 

70 windows, Tucano is bright and airy, with airconditioned 

cabins and salon. 

This cruise will appeal to travelers looking for 

both fun and a very genuine experience of the 

authentic Amazon. 

Wayfarers Travel Collection Package: 

Includes pre-night accommodation in 

Manaus and a city tour. 

Departures: 

Weekly departures year round. 

Price: US$ 4,350 per person based on 

double occupancy 

76 


Barging in France 

Cruise the Canal du Midi or the historic 

region of Gascony. 

Relax on board a luxury barge with a small 

group of fellow travelers and progress through 

France in style with European Waterways on 

the Rosa or Anjodi. 

The Canal du Midi skirts the shores of the 

Mediterranean before meandering inland 

through sun-drenched ancient villages, Roman 

fortifications and lush vineyards. Visit the famous 

walled city of Carcassonne and taste the wines at 

chateaux along the route. 

Or let the Canal des Deux Mers take you to the 

medieval bastide towns of old Gascony in the 

southwest. On the way, pass picturesque villages 

and quaint farms and learn about and taste some 

of the region’s wonderful local products like 

Armagnac and foie-gras. 


Includes one night pre or post tour 

accommodation in a gateway city. 

Departures: 

Weekly, March - October 

Price: from US$ 4,450 per person based 

on double occupancy 

Riding, bird watching or painting 

Holidays in the hills of Spain’s Andalucia 

with Arbuthnott Holidays. 

Saddle up and let noble, sure-footed horses take 

us along old caminos and smugglers’ paths, 

used over centuries, through cork valleys, limestone 

sierras and forgotten valleys, with griffin 

vultures and eagles soaring above. 

For this vacation, we stay at El Cortijo Barranco, 

a large, stately farmhouse built in 1754. 

Keen birdwatchers can spend a week in a part 

of Andalucia which is on a hugely important 

migratory route for birds moving between Africa 

and Europe. During the week visit many different 

habitats, with the excitement of discovering and 

watching birds we may never have seen before, 

under the guidance of Robin Nelson. 

Pack your brushes and make the most of this 

beautiful region with mountainous, pastoral and 

wooded scenery interspersed with white villages 

chiseled in to the hillside and exquisite little 

farmhouses readymade for artists. We visit 

different sites from which to paint country, town 

and village scenes. 

For both these vacations, we stay at Almuña, the 

home of Hugh and Jane Arbuthnott, on a 500-acre 

farm with a wondrous vista stretching deep in to 

North Africa. Enjoy home-cooked food, using fresh 

and totally organic ingredients from the Almuña 

kitchen garden together with some delicious 

Spanish wines selected by Hugh. 


Includes pre or post night’s 

accommodation in Malaga. 

Departures: 

Riding: April 14-21, 2016 

April 2017 

Painting: April 27 – May 4, 2016 

October 1-8, 2016 

April/May/October 2017 

Bird watching: April 18-25, 2016 

April 2017 

Price: on application 


77

Sam Solomon 

Chris Peterson 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Dick Dixon 

1. How Fit Do I Need to Be? 

The Wayfarers walks are rated numerically, 

one to five, from Easy to Energetic. 

Each rating is based on a combination of 

type of terrain, distance, time and elevation 

gain. The Wayfarers can help you 

assess your own fitness when it comes 

time to choose. 

2. How Many People Will Be 

on the Trip? 

The Wayfarers takes a maximum of 16 

walkers per trip, but average between 

10 and 12. 

3. Where Do We Stay? 

As a small, independent company, The 

Wayfarers avoids hotel chains in favor of 

locally-owned inns. You can expect 

gracious English manor houses, Tuscan 

villas, French châteaux, medieval inns, 

and rustic lodges in the American West, 

all chosen for their character, location, 

and the warmth of their welcome. 

4. What if it Rains? 

The walk typically goes on, though you do 

have the option of taking the van. Bring 

Gore-Tex jackets and pants, as well as Gore- 

Tex hiking boots, to keep you dry during 

the wettest afternoons. 

5. I’m Traveling Solo, Will I fit In? 

If you’re traveling on your own, you’ll fit 

right in with a Wayfarers’ group! Here’s a 

chance to meet other like-minded people 

and share the camaraderie of the trail. You 

can be sure to feel welcome and at ease 

whatever your circumstances. 

Our trips are popular with solo travelers 

who want to explore off the beaten track 

in safety and comfort. You can make new 

friends and enjoy relaxed companionship 

along the way. 

As a solo traveler you’ll enjoy exactly the 

same high standards of accommodation as 

paired travelers. We offer reasonably 

priced single supplements and you’ll stay 

in the same category of room. 

‘I would not hesitate to recommend 

The Wayfarers to solo travelers. It’s a 

very safe, comfortable environment 

and such a variety of people.’ 

~ 

‘Everybody mixes fine on Wayfarers 

Walks, it doesn’t matter if you come 

as a single or a couple.’ 

~ 

‘You’re part of the group and 

accepted without ever feeling like 

a fifth wheel.’ 

78 


Preparing for your Walk 

Planning is half the fun 

Share your 

Wayfarers’ experiences 

There are lots of ways to stay in touch and 

connect with other Wayfarers online. Our 

Facebook Page is stacked with photos, 

updates, competitions and lively 

comments, so make sure you Like us at 

www.facebook.com/thewayfarers 

Our email newsletter keeps you up-to-date 

with our news, competitions and offers – 

visit the website to subscribe. 

The Wayfarers' 'Get Ready to Walk Shop' 

Now Available Online 

• Logo Gear including polo shirts, sun shirts, 

day packs, Tilley hats & more 

• ‘High quality’ walking essentials 

to kit you out from 

head to toe 

Log on to: 

www.thewayfarers.com/gear 

And our active Twitter account 

@wayfarers is a great source of travel 

snaps, news and links. 

To ensure that you are in the best 

possible shape for your vacation, The 

Wayfarers has partnered with Fit for 

Trips to offer fitness programs crafted 

specifically for your walking itinerary. 

Upon receiving your Walk booking, we 

send you a voucher for a 10% discount 

on your chosen Fit for Trips program. 

See www.thewayfarers.com/fit-for-trips 

for more information 


79

Preparing for your Walk 

Roy Robinson 

Need Assistance with your Travel Plans? 

Wendy Houle runs The Wayfarers' Travel Desk 

providing expert service. 

• Save time and effort 

• Blend arrival and departure travel 

arrangements perfectly with your Walk 

• Add pre and post Walk trips that supplement 

your Walk experience 

• Take advantage of the best each area has to 

offer with expert advice 

• Reasonable fees 

Contact The Wayfarers’ Travel Desk at 1-800-611-4763 (US & Canada) 

Reserve Your Walking Vacation Now - 

3 Easy Ways! 

1. Call us now at 1-800-249-4620 

2. Request a booking online at 

www.thewayfarers.com 

3. Ask your Travel Agent to call us 

WALK RATINGS 

Each rating is based on a combination of 

type of varying terrain, walking distance / 

time & elevation gain. 

Easy 

Morning/Afternoon: 3-4mi, 2-2 ½hrs 

Daily: 6-8mi, 4-5hrs 

Mainly flat, several hills, easy incline, good footing 

Easy/Moderate 

Morning/Afternoon: 4-5mi, 2 ½-3hrs 


Days provide a combination of Easy and Moderate 

Terrains 

2 are Better than 1! 

Book any Two of our Walks 

Back to Back, and we'll treat 

you to a night's 

accommodation 

in-between. 

If you are a 

first-timer, we'll give you 

the Wayfarers' Friends 

5% Loyalty Discount on 

both Walks. 

Deposit 

We request a deposit of US$ 500 per person for most Walks, 

with final payment requested 90 days ahead of the trip. 

However, for the Barging in Burgundy, Pentillie Castle and 

Patagonia trips the deposit is US $1000 and final payment is 

120 days ahead of the trip. 

Cancellations 

If you find it necessary to cancel your reservation, all payments 

will be refunded to you, less a Cancellation Fee as follows: 

• More than 120 days before Walk date $ 150 per person 

• 120-91 days before Walk date $ 500 per person 

• 90-60 days before Walk date 50% of walk price per person 

• 59-0 days before Walk date 

FULL price of Walk 

Barging in Burgundy, Patagonia, Pentillie Castle:: 

• More than 120 days before Walk date $ 500 per person 

• 120-91 days before Walk date $ 1000 per person 

• 90-0 days before Walk date 

FULL price of Walk 

Exceptions to this cancellation policy cannot be made for any 

reason, including personal emergencies, business emergencies, 

illness, or weather. 

Moderate 

Morning/Afternoon: 4-5mi, 2 ½-3hrs 


Moderate hills each day, variety of surfaces, no long 

difficult descents 

Moderate/Energetic 



Days provide a combination of Moderate and 

Energetic Terrains 

Energetic 



Higher frequency of hills or steps each day, longer 

ascents and descents, good level of fitness required to 

enjoy the Walk 

80 

Copyright © 2016 The Wayfarers, 174 Bellevue Ave., Newport RI 02840 USA. All rights reserved. All images are the prior copyright of their creators. Nothing may be reproduced in any form without obtaining 

the permission of the creators. Special thanks to Ellen Barone and all who shared their photos with us! Rolf van Dijk, Graphic Design & Cartography | Betsy West, Editor

Page 

Walk Title 

Price US$ 

Wayfarers’ Friends 

Price US$ 

Single 

Sup 

# 

Nights 

Walk 

Rating 

Departure Dates 

United Kingdom & Ireland Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 

14 England Thomas Hardy's Dorset: Far from the Madding Crowd NEW $ 4,495 $ 4,270 $ 565 6 3 15 25 

15 England The Lake District: Glittering lakes, majestic mountains NEW $ 4,395 $ 4,175 $ 595 6 5 3 2 

16 England Cornwall: Smugglers’ coves and spectacular gardens $ 4,395 $ 4,175 $ 565 6 4 5 2 

17 England North Cornwall: King Arthur's Tintagel and Poldark NEW $ 4,395 $ 4,175 $ 565 6 4 12 9 

18 England Northumbria: Land of castles, saints and Vikings $ 4,395 $ 4,175 $ 565 6 2 26 11 

19 England Coast to Coast: Lake District and Yorkshire Dales $ 4,395 $ 4,175 $ 595 7 5 11 17 8 

20 England The Cotswolds: Quintessential England $ 4,295 $ 4,080 $ 565 6 2 22 25 

21 England Jane Austen Country: Insider’s guide to Jane’s family life $ 4,295 $ 4,080 $ 565 6 1 8 

22 England Pentillie Castle: Live like a lord in a private castle from $ 4,195 from $ 3,985 from $ 695 6 2 16 

23 England ‘Downton Abbey’: Victorian splendor, megalithic monuments $ 4,195 $ 3,985 $ 565 6 2 17 

24 England Yorkshire: The Fells and Dales of James Herriot country $ 4,195 $ 3,985 $ 565 6 2 15 9 

25 Wales Pembrokeshire Coast: The Wild Coast of Wales $ 4,295 $ 4,080 $ 565 6 3 4 

26 Scotland Outer Hebrides: Skye, Lewis and Harris NEW $ 4,395 $ 4,175 $ 565 6 2 29F 26 

27 Scotland The Highlands: Lochs, Mountains and Royal Edinburgh $ 4,395 $ 4,175 $ 565 6 3 25 

28 N. Ireland Northern Ireland: Historic cities, Glens, Wild Coasts $ 4,395 $ 4,175 $ 565 6 2 12 18 

29 Ireland The Ring of Kerry: Dingle Peninsula and Celtic history $ 4,395 $ 4,175 $ 565 6 3 5 25 

Europe ~ France & Spain Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 

33 Spain Camino de Santiago: Ancient Pilgrimage Route $ 4,495 $ 4,270 $ 595 7 4 21 

34 France/Spain Pays Basque: Wild landscapes and a Sparkling Coast $ 4,495 $ 4,270 $ 635 6 4 19 2 

35 France Brittany & Normandy: D-Day Landings & Mont St Michel $ 4,495 $ 4,270 $ 655 6 2 12 25 

36 France Burgundy by Barge: Gourmet cuisine by luxury barge from $ 5,290 from $ 5,025 from $ 1,850 6 1 9, 16 

37 France Burgundy: Walks and Wines from Beaune to Cluny NEW $ 4,495 $ 4,270 $ 595 6 3 5F 18 

38 France Alsace: Villages, Vosges & Vineyards $ 4,495 $ 4,270 $ 655 6 3 29 11 

39 France Provence: Fragrances, fine dining and artistic inspiration $ 4,795 $ 4,555 $ 695 6 3 22 16 

Europe ~ Italy Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 

43 Italy Puglia: Beauty, history and local cuisine $ 4,395 $ 4,175 $ 595 6 3 17 25 

44 Italy The Veneto: Palladio and Prosecco $ 4,495 $ 4,270 $ 635 6 3 4 

45 Italy The Dolomites: Italy's awesome wild mountains $ 4,495 $ 4,270 $ 635 6 5 28 

46 Italy Lucca to Siena: A Pilgrim Way $ 4,295 $ 4,080 $ 595 6 3 22 18 

47 Italy Classic Tuscany: Birthplace of the Renaissance $ 4,495 $ 4,270 $ 595 6 3 29 25 

48 Italy Tuscany & Umbria: Bucolic landscapes, Vineyards $ 4,495 $ 4,270 $ 595 6 3 5 

49 Italy The Italian Lakes: Como, Maggiore, Lugano & Orta $ 4,595 $ 4,365 $ 655 6 4 19 11 

50 Italy The Amalfi Coast & The Isle of Capri $ 4,895 $ 4,650 $ 595 6 5 8 18 

51 Italy Cinque Terre: The glamorous Italian Riviera $ 4,595 $ 4,365 $ 655 6 4 12 18 

52 Italy Western Sicily: Ancient temples, nature reserves $ 4,495 $ 4,270 $ 595 6 3 24 2 

53 Italy Eastern Sicily: Mount Etna, Classical sites, coastal paths $ 4,495 $ 4,270 $ 595 6 3 1 9 

Europe Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 

57 Austria Winter Tyrolean Alps: Hiking or cross-country skiing NEW $ 4,195 $ 3,985 $ 395 6 4 6 

58 Germany/Austria Bavaria & Tyrolean Alps: Alpine perfection NEW $ 4,495 $ 4,270 $ 565 7 3 18 

60 Norway Bergen & the Western Fjords: Spectacular scenery $ 4,895 $ 4,650 $ 750 7 3 2 3 

61 Slovenia Slovenia: Mountains, lakes and unspoiled rural life $ 4,395 $ 4,175 $ 565 7 2 10 

62 Croatia The Dalmatian Coast: Islands, sleepy villages, shining seas $ 4,595 $ 4,365 $ 655 7 3 14 1, 15 

64 Czech Republic Vienna to Prague: Crossroads of Europe $ 4,395 $ 4,175 $ 565 7 2 28 17 

65 Czech R., Germany Prague to Dresden: Landscape of artists and poets $ 4,395 $ 4,175 $ 565 7 3 5 25 

The Americas, Africa & The Pacific Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 

69 United States Colorado: Summertime in Wilderness Mountains $ 3,695 $ 3,510 $ 755 6 5 10 

70 United States Utah: The Grand Canyon, Bryce & Zion $ 3,295 $ 3,130 $ 595 6 3 29 25 

71 United States New Mexico: Ancient land of Enchantment $ 3,295 $ 3,130 $ 595 6 3 4 

72 Argentina Patagonia: The Remote Paradise 2016 $ 5,995 $ 5,695 $ 1,295 8 4 31 

72 Argentina Patagonia: The Remote Paradise 2017 $ 6,095 $ 5,790 $ 1,295 8 4 31 

74 New Zealand New Zealand: Spectacular South Island 2016 $ 5,850 $ 5,555 $ 1,250 13 2 1 

74 New Zealand New Zealand: Spectacular South Island 2017 $ 5,995 $ 5,695 $ 1,250 13 2 7 

For more details: www.thewayfarers.com or call us at: 1-800-249-4620 (US & Canada) 

F =Founders’ Walk

174 Bellevue Avenue 

Newport, RI o2840 

PRSRT STD 

U.S. POSTAGE 

PAID 

PPCO 

For Reservations and Information: 

United States/Canada 

174 Bellevue Avenue 

Newport, RI 02840 

+1 (800) 249-4620 

+1 (401) 849-5087 

Fax: (401) 849-5878 

Travel Desk: +1 (800) 611-4763 

walk-info@thewayfarers.com 

United Kingdom/Europe 

7 The Square 

Toddington 

Gloucestershire GL54 5DJ 

+44 (0)1 242 620871 

walk-info@thewayfarers.co.uk 

Australia/New Zealand 

52 Carranya Road 

Riverview 

NSW 2066 

+61 (0)2 8091 4045 

aust-pacific@thewayfarers.com 

Argentina 

Austria 

Chile 

Croatia 


England 

France 

Germany 

Ireland 

Italy 

New Zealand 


Norway 

Scotland 

Slovenia 

Spain 

United States 

Wales 

Amy Martin 

Front Cover Phot0: Northumbria Walkers approach Alnwick Castle 

Stephen Banks

Thompson

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