Environment

Activity:
As a walking holiday, this trip has very limited detrimental impact upon the environment, residents and communities in the regions we visit. Adverse effects like pollution and threatening wildlife are not an issue and although erosion on popular paths can be problematic, guides can advise pre-planned routes to avoid this. Trekking also allows for flexibility and allows for easy access to the local population, shops and restaurants, which facilitates cultural exploration. We use local transport and taxis throughout the trip, having a positive effect on infrastructure and small transfer companies. By operating consciously with a ‘leave no trace’ policy, we are able to raise local awareness for a kind of tourism which refuses to sacrifice the environment and real connections with local people.

UK Office:
It all starts at home so we have first worked at reducing our carbon footprint in our UK Offices. Through energy conservation measures and recycling policies, we are proud to be actively reducing the waste produced and our impact on the environment. We support various projects all over the world to try and give something back to the places we visit.

Community

Accommodation and Meals:
We spend the week in a hotel which has been run by a local family for over 30 years. So we can ensure that our visit benefits local people by generating income and employment for them. The hotel uses a range of environmental regulations to minimise impact on their surroundings e.g. solar panels provide clean energy and separation and recycling of rubbish is thorough. Produce used at the hotel is locally sourced wherever possible as there is so much on offer and this is a way to support local suppliers. Different tavernas and restaurants are also frequented throughout the trip, where clients can sample authentic Greek specialties like Evian gnocchi, rabbit stew, bean soup, olives, fresh grilled fish or meat, seasonal vegetables and regional cheeses.

Local Craft and Culture:
The Evian region has a rich history and culture as well as dramatic landscapes and beautiful coastlines. The week starts in the ancient city of Athens, before heading towards the beautiful Karystos and villages of Gourna, where there are whitewashed houses, castles, and architectural ruins. We also visit the Montofoli Winery Estate, which has been producing wine there for 2000 years, where we can try the exquisite Vin De Liqueur. On the free day, clients can explore the thriving market town of Karystos or take a day trip into Athens. Popular locally crafted items include ceramics, engravings on Evian slate and woven tablecloths. Money spent at these various locations on souvenirs, entry fees and donations goes towards preserving local crafts, culture and heritage sites.

Group Size:
This small group tour has a maximum of 16 participants, meaning that we have a low impact on the environments and communities we visit and are able to ensure that we do not disrupt or lead to the displacement of local people. The small number also allows us to stay in unique, family-run hotels that cannot benefit from coach tours and other mass tourism due to their limited sizes.