Holiday Reviews
We invite every traveller who books a holiday via us to send in a review. Because we don't run the holidays they're completely independent and unedited... remember to read between the lines though, as two people on the same trip can have different views!
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Walking holidays in Spain, independent reviews
 Reviewed 30 Mar 2009 by Bernadette Halpin |  |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
It is impossible to choose between the challenging and often awe-inspiring days, and the superb gourmet dining of the evenings.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Make sure your boots are up to the relentless impact of broken limestone tracks.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
All of our food was grown and bought locally whenever possible.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Everything about this holiday was excellent, and exceeded expectations. The walking was varied, the guide/s were knowledgeable and supportive, the food was simply wonderful, and my walking companions were friends by the end of the week.
| Reviewed 10 May 2009 by Ans Gorter | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
I couldn't possibly choose between all those good moments as the whole week was so fantastic. But most memorable to me were the flowers. I am a rather fanatic botanist and I got more than my share of new and exciting plants. There were too many for me to identify all of these in one week, so I'll just have to come back.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Just enjoy yourself. (Literally everything has been taken care off, you will feel really pampered and your only responsibility will be to decide what you will choose out off the fridge to bring with you for lunch.)
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes. We ate local products, the personnel was mostly local, the hot water was provided by solar panels. And most of our transport was on foot!
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
These people are all absolutely great professionals. Moreover, they made me feel very welcome. They did everything one could think off to make this an unforgettable stay. The walks were chosen in accordance to the wishes and capacities of the group members.
| Reviewed 10 Feb 2009 by Patricia Turnbull | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
My wife and I have spent a wonderful and exciting week with Brain, Pat and their son Tom. Tom guided us on spectacular, grade 3 walks, in the mountains and valleys of this varied limestone scenery. Strenuous ascents followed by breathtaking ridge walks with panoramic views and then lovely mule tracks which descended slowly to interesting villages. Returning after a rewarding day to the excellent cooking of Pat using local ingredients and recipes complimented by Brain's choice of wine and music.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Ask your hosts to advise you on walking routes to suit your tastes and stamina. They have great knowledge and love of the area. The cottages are well equipped with lovely roof terraces.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
The walks showed commitment to the local environment and the host's knowledge of the area was considerable. Most if not all food and wine was locally sourced. Local people are employed to help within the business. The restoration of their properties has been done by local craftmen and is in keeping with local design.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
An exceptional holiday with fantastic walking and wonderful local food.
| Reviewed 5 Jan 2009 by Jill Sheppard | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The New Year’s Eve dinner and party was terrific with all the hotel guests, Spanish and non-Spanish joining in an evening of traditional and non-traditional fun. The roast suckling pig was superb, traditional grapes as midnight strikes and plenty of dancing afterwards. But undoubtedly the most memorable was the wonderful walking on varied terrain with great mountain scenery.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Go there - it is great! Get fit beforehand if you can - although there are walks of different grades so you can find a level that suits you.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
80% of water heating is by solar and most food etc is sourced locally. The hotel provides employment and economic activity in an area where many villages are being depopulated.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
First class.
| Reviewed 27 Nov 2007 by Miranda Kronfli | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The stunning scenery. Delicious food every day, including the packed lunches.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Check with the hotel to see if other members of the group have booked individually (e.g. with responsible travel) or if the holiday places have been bought up by another tour operator, as some tour operators sell holidays aimed at a different demographic (e.g. older people).
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes - the hotel clearly played a very important and beneficial role in the local economy and the food seemed mainly to be sourced locally. The walks were all great, with no long car journeys.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Fantastic! The hotel staff were some of the friendliest I've come across, the tour guides were professional, capable and treated us all like friends while out on walks. The hotel was beautiful, homely, warm, clean and my room was lovely - with wooden panelled French doors which opened out onto a balcony with a beautiful view of the hills and village.
| Reviewed 24 Nov 2007 by Barry Tooze | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Simple answer is every day - the walks are fantastic, the hotel was superb, food was so tasty, the bar was welcoming, warm and all the residents loved it! I could not fault it in anyway.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Enjoy it - it will be extremely hard not too! Also suggest you book for a different season as well (i.e. book two holidays - not only will the walks be different, but the flora and fauna will be too!)
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Travelling through the region you can see how the villages are becoming less and less populated - seeing what Bryan & Pat and all at the hotel have achieved is remarkable - a viable business in a region that is losing all it's youth to the big towns and cities. And the Solar Panels that warm the baths are most welcome after a long day in the mountains!
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Superb, cannot be faulted in anyway. Will I go back? Definitely! Will I be telling my friends? I am doing so already. Definitely worth a visit or 4!
| Reviewed 21 May 2007 by Carmel Barry | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Apart from the fantastic landscape and wildlife the whole holiday was so well organised and yet so relaxed it is something I will never forget. The food also, was superb.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
To be as fit as possible and get in some mountain walks before the holiday.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes the area is very environmentally friendly and it would be a shame to have a negative impact on that, however the employment given by the Hotel and the emphasis on the environment throughout the holiday can only have a positive effect.
4. Any other comments?
From beginning to end, from the time Brian picked us up at the airport to the time that he left us back to the airport it was all such a pleasure and all of this has made us determined to do the same type of holiday again.
| Reviewed 2 Nov 2009 by Robin Ridley | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The Whole thing! Had a really great time, excellent countryside and well lead walks, great accommodation and fabulous food and hospitality
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
None really trust Brain & Pat!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes indeed
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent
| Reviewed 22 Oct 2009 by Sarah Scobie | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The best times were definitely reaching the mountain peaks and the wonderful 360 degree views. The food in the hotel also must come high up the list of best bits!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The most important thing must be well-fitting-well-broken-in footwear!
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Wonderful holiday from start to finish. Meals were lovely - good choice for breakfast, packed lunch and delicious three course evening meal. Very clean and comfortable hotel - especially liked the fact they have three comfortable lounge areas... the addition of a log fire on one cool evening added to the cosy atmosphere. The knowledgeable guide set walks/routes based on group abilities and choice and allowed us to go at our own pace etc. Would definitely travel with this operator in future and have recommended it to friends already.
| Reviewed 16 Mar 2009 by Nicholas Ringwald | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The fantastic views and ideal walking weather. Pat's cooking and knowledge of local cuisine and flavours was superb - my only complaint would be that on two or three of the nights I could have eaten a slightly larger portion on main course. Brian's selection of local wines was excellent and ideal with the classic cooking.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
don't expect too much from Quatrotendata village - it is very small and only has one pub/cafe. there are no shopping facilities near by so bring all your gear you need for the week with you or hire a car !
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was an ideal walking holiday for the time of year and to be able to book at such short notice was ideal for me. Again the views were spectacular and weather superb. Pat's cooking and knowledge of local cuisine and flavours was also superb.
Read the operator's response here:
Glad you enjoyed your experience. It’s a pity you didn't mention that you wanted more to eat at main courses as we could have done something about it at the time. The area in which we are based is an area which is suffering badly from depopulation and the failure of the local agriculture. Rural tourism is a very important part of the future of these small villages. It is correct that there are no shops in the village other than a pharmacy but the village is very well served on 6 days by travelling shops providing everything from bread, vegetables, meat and fish through to foot wear and furniture. The latter two admittedly only once a month.| Reviewed 9 Mar 2009 by Cath O'Leary | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Walking through hail, thunder and lightning! The smell of wild rosemary, lavender and gorse. Craggy mountains with the sea in the distance.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Bring elasticated bandages and deep heat!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Memorable walks to places that I would never have found myself. The best ever veggie food. Good company - plenty of laughs and good conversation.
| Reviewed 4 Jan 2009 by Liza Pullman | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The awesome walks, fellow guests, hosts, the inn...the entire holiday was memorable!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Highly recommend as an active holiday - if you are looking for being in the mountains, walking/hiking daily, and enjoying the end of the day with a wonderful meal - you can not go wrong.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, the area in general is suffering and many beautiful orchards of olives, cherries, almonds, etc. are unable to thrive due to economic challenges. The inn provides an important means of employment for the community and the food incorporates all local produce.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent. I would definitely return!
| Reviewed 3 Jun 2008 by Jenny Preece | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
It was all memorable - fantastic walks, lovely people, great food and a beautiful hotel. (It was also pretty exciting to be on top of mountains in, variously, a hail & lightening storm, a Moorish castle on top of a pinnacle, up close with vultures, and balancing a narrow ridge with views to all of other mountains we'd climbed that week.)
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
This is quite a treasure of a place 'get away from it all' - do what I did and leave your mobile phone charger at home! I'd also thoroughly recommend getting there by train. I had afternoons in Paris, Valencia and Barcelona as part of my holiday. Others in the group had afternoons stuck in airports.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes. The hotel and its projects seemed to be an important part of the local economy and to make a significant contribution to appreciation and understanding of the local environment.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent.
| Reviewed 1 Jun 2008 by Elizabeth Seakins | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Realising I could get to the top of the mountains!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don't forget your waterproofs!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Fantastic.
| Reviewed 30 Mar 2008 by Liam Stewart | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Fantastic walks with a very well-run company. Very nice hotel with nice food and friendly management.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
There is no shop in the town. Make sure you bring whatever you need with you. Budget for day lunches (€8 per head).
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent.
| Reviewed 24 Mar 2008 by Iain Wishart | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Difficult to say really... I enjoyed every aspect of the holiday... the hotel and hospitality, the food and drink, the walks, the weather... but if I had to choose it would be the scenery and wildlife... vultures and golden eagles made my holiday.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Make sure your flights arrive and depart before 12 noon.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes... the hotel is a focal point of the village.
| Reviewed 17 Mar 2008 by Georgina Self | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Fantastic scenery. The hotel was superb. Was made very welcome.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take everything you might need with you as there is no shop in the village.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Local staff in hotel, local produce used so yes.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Brilliant. Hoping to go again next year!
| Reviewed 2 Jan 2008 by Elizabeth Rees | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Memorable good - spectacular scenery, good companionship, excellent round-the-table meals at the accommodation and all round hospitality.
Memorable bad - getting drenched on the first day.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Make sure you have suitable kit for rough walking, including waterproofs!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes - the operator employs a number of locals and sources produce locally. Waste is recycled as far as possible. The hotel also welcomes locals to its bar and restaurant, in a village with few facilities.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was excellent. The hotel was great, the group I was with very nice indeed, and the countryside simply superb.
| Reviewed 31 Dec 2007 by Michael Bushby | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
High quality walking experience. Great being out each day, good variety.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
It can be chilly and wet, so be properly equipped.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes. The business is helping to keep a small rural village alive.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A friendly, well-run hotel. Coped well with the loss of a guide. An interesting, unspoilt area, well worth a visit.
| Reviewed 3 Dec 2007 by Emma Campbell | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Walking along one of the highest ridges in the area, with unbelievable 360 degree views, in glorious sunshine, wearing shorts and a t-shirt - in November!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Definitely go for it - and keep your fingers crossed you end up with as nice a group of fellow walkers as I did. Probably a holiday for keen walkers only though, rather than people who want a mixture of activities, as there is not a lot else to do in the village.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes. I'm told the business has enabled some families to stay in an area where there is very little local employment, rather than having to move away. Hotel has solar panels.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent! The walking was fantastic, food and accommodation superb, and the staff and owners unfailingly friendly and helpful. I have already recommended it to two other people.
| Reviewed 21 Nov 2007 by Lisa McGhee | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Absorbing the beauty of the surrounding landscape and returning from a long days' walk to the peace and tranquillity of the village both stood out for me.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The walks on this holiday were graded level 3-4 and all walkers were of a similar fitness level and ability. This helped the week to go especially well. It is worth bearing this in mind, particularly for more seriously marketed events.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Absolutely.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Superb - lots of fresh air, good company and great hospitality.
| Reviewed 20 Nov 2007 by Clare Jackson | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The fantastic sunshine and beautiful scenery. The walks were spectacular.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
There is no shop at all in the village or anywhere nearby, so bring everything you need with you!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes - it has brought work to local people in the village.
| Reviewed 13 Nov 2007 by Sue Thurston | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The grade 3 walks and seeing a golden eagle.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don't hesitate. Check your walking boots beforehand to make sure they're up to the job.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent.
| Reviewed 31 Oct 2007 by Lisa Birthistle | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The magnificent and varied views which each day presented. Each day was unique and there was so much to see and appreciate. Also the hotel was wonderful with a very relaxed and friendly atmosphere and excellent food.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don't hesitate - just book it immediately! Bring rain gear and lots of socks! Definitely bring a camera - there is a lot worth recording and I regretted not bringing mine. Ideally do some exercise to get in shape before going but if you're reasonably supple you'll get away with it (I did). Also I would recommend this for anyone travelling alone. The walks are guided and you have a ready made group to interact with, while still being able to choose quiet time on your own if you wish.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes on both counts.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent. Well organised, welcoming and very enjoyable.
| Reviewed 21 Oct 2007 by Christine Knights | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Wonderful scenery, lovely walks, very good food. We were very well looked after and the hotel was lovely.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Very enjoyable and lived up to our expectations.
| Reviewed 30 Sep 2007 by Steve Procter | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The views from the tops of the mountains.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Ensure you are fit beforehand. Then you can take advantage of the excellent Grade 3 walking
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes - the hotel tended to use local suppliers for food etc and the owner was clearly involved in the local communities and a great advocate for the area
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Very good - great views, great people, great walking and great food... everything I wanted.
| Reviewed 7 Oct 2006 by Susanna McKnight | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
With the help of the guides, walking at higher altitude and for longer than I have done for many years.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Think about your boots; are they suitable for heat? I went in September, temperatures were high.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, one of the guides was local, hotel staff were local and local specialist produce such as honey and olive oil, was available to buy. The local culture and history were also explained.
4. Any other comments?
The holiday was excellent, the hotel very comfortable, the food very good and the owners very warm, thoughtful and informed. The guided walks were well thought out and catered very well for a variety of experience and fitness. I would certainly go again.
| Reviewed 8 Apr 2006 by Pirkko-Leena Koponen | |
We were a group of 24 seniors and two younger people. I was the tour leader. We enjoyed our week very much. The accommodation is really a good place to stay. The rooms are beautiful and tidy, most have terraces and all have coffee making facilities in the rooms. It was so comfortable. The dining room is very nice with a lovely view. The meals were very good too. And Brian and Pat Fagg are so friendly and nice. They served us very well, and so did the other too. But the local staff didn't speak English and only 2 -3 of us could speak Spanish, so we could not talk with them.
It´s difficult to say, what was the most memorable part of our week, all days were so good. Our walks were fantastic. Some of the group are good walkers, and they enjoyed every moment. Some others were not as strong, and so Brian had extra work to arrange some special walking programs for them. He didn't complain about that. It was very interesting to see so many kinds of nature, for all the walks were in different kind places. History of Moors was very interesting too. Our tours abroad are educational, and the group got much information already before this tour. So all the days were very interesting and memorable. It was also memorable to visit Concentaina town market and museum and later go round our own village Quatretondeta with Brian. He is a very good guide.
We didn't know that there is so many loose stones on the path, and one must be careful and good shoes are essential. But this may be not anything new for most of the people who plan to go there.
According to what we read about the idea of this hotel, it is a big thing for this countryside and the village, that this hotel is there. They give work for people, they take good care of the surroundings and minimize the impacts to the environment.
At least **** and +. Many in the group might say 5 stars, but many of them have travelled so very much and had many other lovely tours too. It was a lovely week, thank you!
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
It´s difficult to say, what was the most memorable part of our week, all days were so good. Our walks were fantastic. Some of the group are good walkers, and they enjoyed every moment. Some others were not as strong, and so Brian had extra work to arrange some special walking programs for them. He didn't complain about that. It was very interesting to see so many kinds of nature, for all the walks were in different kind places. History of Moors was very interesting too. Our tours abroad are educational, and the group got much information already before this tour. So all the days were very interesting and memorable. It was also memorable to visit Concentaina town market and museum and later go round our own village Quatretondeta with Brian. He is a very good guide.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
We didn't know that there is so many loose stones on the path, and one must be careful and good shoes are essential. But this may be not anything new for most of the people who plan to go there.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
According to what we read about the idea of this hotel, it is a big thing for this countryside and the village, that this hotel is there. They give work for people, they take good care of the surroundings and minimize the impacts to the environment.
4. Any other comments?
At least **** and +. Many in the group might say 5 stars, but many of them have travelled so very much and had many other lovely tours too. It was a lovely week, thank you!
| Reviewed 25 Feb 2006 by Mandy Barner | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
I would have to say that the most memorable part of my holiday was climbing to the top of an old Moorish castle and looking out over the countryside with the almond trees just beginning to flower. All of our walks took us to a different region of the Alicante province so it is hard to say which is my favourite! Another favourite part was returning every night to a fabulous hotel (recently doubled in size and quite tastefully done) and having a wonderful meal with Spanish wines every night.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
If you are booking independently and coming from a country outside of Britain, the flights don't match up very well with the transport provided but you can always go in to Valencia and explore the city. We didn't have the chance to get there during the week so it was nice to have the chance to see it before. Also, remember that lunches are not included but they do provide a packed lunch for an extra fee. They're quite filling but if you like to snack on the walks, bring your own.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Our hotel employed a number of locals from the surrounding towns, giving them employment in an area that doesn't have a lot to offer in the way of jobs. As for environmental impact, I was at first concerned by all of the plastic sacks we used for lunches and such but they have a program in place where those can be sent away for recycling. And as hikers, we didn't leave any traces of our passing other than footsteps so impact was minimal.
4. Any other comments?
This holiday is a wonderful getaway for those seeking relaxation and exercise at the same time. I found the walks to be perfect for getting us out and moving but not for killing our muscles (or ourselves!) with tons of mountains. Quatrotondeta is a wonderful and quiet little mountain village and perfect for observing Spanish life. The hotel, twice as big as before, is beautiful (especially loved the terrace looking out over the village and hills at sunset) and the food provided is delicious. I give my holiday four stars ****. Thanks for a great time!
| Reviewed 11 Jan 2006 by Frances Wright | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Very well informed and interesting guide, excellent food.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
In December / January it's hot in the sun but the wind can be cold so don't leave all your warm clothes at home.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes - as much as is possible ignoring the impact of getting there in the first place!
4. Any other comments?
I'd recommend it to anyone.
| Reviewed 10 Dec 2005 by Dianne Page | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The most memorable part of my holiday was the walk on the third day when we walked up to see the griffin vultures. The spectacle of the birds soaring and riding the thermals against the backdrop of the mountains and the city below was mesmerising.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Other tips - The food is very good with local specialities on the menu and the rooms are comfortable so recommended if you like your creature comforts after a day out in the hills. The village is very small so if you forget to pack items you need, it would be wise to get them at the airport or in your arrival city.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
I think the hotel itself has helped to reinvigorate the village, buying local produce including wine and using local construction companies. They are also hoping to open a shop I believe. The hotel owners are planning to incorporate renewable energy into the hotel extension. As walkers we are conscious of erosion issues, not picking flowers and fruit and although we used transport to and from our walks, the fact that it was a group mini bus minimised the impact on the environment.
4. Any other comments?
I have recommended it to friends already. Not sure about the grand children bit though.
| Reviewed 1 Oct 2005 by Dave Hopkins | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The whole week was memorable. The setting is fantastic, the walks were long but very good, the food every night was excellent, and the hotel and staff was very nice and welcoming.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Apart from saying a big yes to anyone thinking of going, just be aware that unlike some holidays it is walking every day so you need to be reasonably fit.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
As far as possible I think so since it is a very small village and I assume all produce is local.
4. Any other comments?
Almost reborn...definitely in the top 3 holidays ever and we will be returning.
| Reviewed 18 Jun 2005 by Julia Arden | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Discovering this part of Spain, its wonderful scenery, complete absence of other tourists, stunning wildlife (golden eagles, falcons, nightingales etc.), huge range of aromatic herbs and flowers covering the landscape, challenging walks in good company, and retiring in the evening to delicious meals and excellent local wines. Brian and Pat have the perfect package for walkers of all levels.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don't bring too many clothes! A couple of walking outfits, comfortable boots and one or two other casual things for evenings. Binoculars are useful.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, most of the staff are from the local villages, food and wine are sourced locally, and rubbish is recycled. Because there are several hundred walks in the area, not one path gets eroded. In any case the tracks and paths are well maintained for walkers.
| Reviewed 26 Mar 2005 by Sherrie Thorley | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The fresh air, scenery and exercise.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
You need to have some walking experience for grade 3, some of the walks are vertigoes.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, local people are employed, local produce is used. The business benefits the local village.
| Reviewed 9 Mar 2009 by Karen Booth | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Stunning scenery, some great walking and lots of weather! The food was fabulous.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Pack for ALL weathers and make sure you take everything with you that you need as there are no shops. Sturdy walking boots essential!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
The tour operator is based in, and is part of a small mountain community. Currently economic conditions mean that their opportunities to employ local people are limited as it seemed to be a predominently family run business. We certainly felt that environmental impact was minimal.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A great fresh-air spring break and warm hospitality. I do hope this couple get their hotel back as I think the current set up of small groups sharing local houses, whilst a comfortable enough alternative, still is not the same as having a lovely room with a view/balcony in a hotel and does limit the opportunities to choose whether you want the company of others or not.
Read the operator's response here:
Thanks for the review. The benefit brought to local people is that we are entirely based in the community and are very much part of it. Our tax contribution to the village community is substantial and by far the largest source of income the village has. Due to the current economic circumstances we are not able to employ more people but we are still the only business in the village offering employment to local people. The bulk of our spending for provisions and maintenance is also within the local community. Taking a holiday here is very much helping to keep a village alive. I am not sure that a group guided walking holiday would have been any different in the hotel or the cottages, as it is a group holiday and the group take their meals together. Also the hotel was a small hotel based on a homely set up, so you would have still been very much in each others company. You certainly experienced some weather when you were here. It has been uninterrupted sunshine since you left. Thanks for your wishes on the hotel, but that is entirely in the hands of the irrational banking industry at this moment.| Reviewed 5 Jan 2009 by Amanda Berry | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Each day's walking provided a different aspect of the area with some tremendous far reaching views at summits enhanced quite dramatically by low level cloud at times. Cuisine at the hotel was excellent with good variety to suit all tastes. A very warm welcome by Brian and Pat at the hotel which is comfortable/clean and homely.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent venue to get away from it all.
| Reviewed 7 May 2005 by Kik Pang | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Stunning scenery & locations, challenge & variations of the walks, warm hospitality.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Find out what the lunch options are, and whether there is a local shop.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes.