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 short breaks in France, independent reviews
 Reviewed 2 Jul 2008 by Rachael Barber |  |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Arriving in Mollières after a long day's walk. An extraordinary hamlet, still half-ruined from WW2, hidden in a deserted valley, whose population probably nearly doubled when nine of us arrived to stay the night! Tartiflette eaten by candlelight (cooked by the concert pianist and his wife who run the refuge) and the sound of the river in its rocky bed as we fell asleep.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Overnight guided walks are well worth it. Simply keep in mind that most mountain refuges are not aiming for luxury - they provide shelter for the night in remote locations (and usually food). Without the refuge and its host, you would have had to carry your tent, cooking gear and food in with you. Don't expect en-suite bathrooms and à la carte dinner menus, and you'll be fine. Oh, and the hills are big - very big. Get fit before you come!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Benefited local people: yes. The operator is a small local company, and seems to have good connections to other local businesses. Minimised impacts on the environment: fairly well. Walking holidays are pretty low-impact. The Lake District is rather closer to home, but we travelled all the way to Nice by train, which is certainly more eco-friendly than flying, comparably priced if you book well in advance, and more comfortable.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Good exercise, amazing views, friendly and helpful hosts. Would stay longer next time!
| Reviewed 4 Nov 2006 by Joanna Mckendrick | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The most memorable aspect of our time in the Mercantor Park was the stunning guided walk we did with Mel. Perfect weather and spectacular mountain scenery coupled with no worries about route finding and safety made our walk to the top of a 2,800m peak a perfect birthday celebration for us.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
A tip for other travellers would be to make sure they clarify what services the tour operator is offering and what they require from Mel and Liz in advance. I think that benefits both parties.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
I think our holiday did benefit local people. We were holidaying out of season so our custom to local shops and restaurants was welcome. It also showed us what a fantastic walking area the Maritime Alps is and would recommend it to friends.
4. Any other comments?
Our holiday was excellent. The accommodation was perfect and our hosts Mel and Liz were very accommodating and welcoming. I think we will be booking a longer and more adventurous trip next year facilitated by Mel and Liz.
| Reviewed 8 Oct 2006 by Graham Jeffs | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Watching chamois in the Gordolasque.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Get some good binoculars, makes wildlife spotting much easier - the chamois are well camouflaged.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
All food sourced locally and the walks did not impact on the enviroment.
4. Any other comments?
Very good, Liz and Mel were excellent hosts. I am very likely to return.
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