Latest news with #RambleWorldwide
The Sun
05-05-2025
- The Sun
I've visited 100 countries but always go back to these Spanish islands – they love Brits & have the best food & beaches
DESPITE having travelled to more than 100 countries as my time as a travel writer, the place I always return to is much closer to home. Having first visited the Canary Islands in Spain back in 1998, I've been back at least once a year on holiday. 7 7 Here are some of the reasons why it still remains one of my top places to have to go. The locals STILL love the Brits Heard about the anti-tourism protests in the Canaries and wondered if we're still welcome? This year I've been back to four of the eight isles and could not have been more welcomed, with the locals stressing how much they value British visitors. I even stumbled across a counter protest movement with ' Lanzarote Loves Tourism'. The world's most varied archipelago The Canaries are all things to all people. On Tenerife alone you can party at the world's second biggest carnival, bash around the world's best waterpark (Siam Park) and climb a mountain almost three times higher than Britain's Ben Nevis. La Graciosa could be on a different planet. There are no tarmac roads, nevermind an airport. It's a brilliant escape from the modern world, hiking and cycling around rough tracks, up volcanoes and out to windswept beaches. Much more than just British breakfasts You can still tuck into British comfort food across the resorts, but there is far more to savour today. Lanzarote and Gran Canaria boast Michelin star restaurants and foodies flock to Tenerife to dine at eight Michelin star restaurants. Spanish island reveals plans for huge new £4.8billion train routes – connecting beach holiday hotspots 7 Tenerife boasts more Michelin stars than Wales and the Royal Hideaway Corales Resort has more stars than any hotel in Spain with four! And Tenerife just keeps winning stars. This year Il Bocconcino snared one. I dined there just after, with chef Nikki Pavanelli telling me how he reinvents Italian classics using ultra fresh Canarian produce. It's not all posh nosh - my favourite spot is simple, traditional Restaurante Los Abrigos, with as many locals as tourists in the quaint spot by the Atlantic. Ask to view the catch of the day – they'll weigh it and give you a price so you won't get ripped off. 7 Not so Lanzagrotty Michael Palin once unfairly dubbed Lanzarote with this horrible nickname. I've met him since and he insists it was just a joke. In fact Lanzarote is the classiest Canary Isle. It's largely down to one man - madcap artist Cesar Manrique. He persuaded his politician pals to ban huge resorts and tower hotels. He worked on a series of bewitching projects too – he transformed a rubbish tip into the Jameos del Agua, which looks like the lair of James Bond baddy. A great place to stay is family-run Finca de Arrieta, which captures the spirit of Manrique. World-class hiking As a Scot I know when hiking is brilliant. Tenerife has massive variety, as does Gran Canaria, but my top tip is La Palma. I hiked around what the Canarios call 'La Isla Bonita' with Ramble Worldwide earlier this year. It was a joy soaring with our friendly group of largely British retirees up volcanoes, through thick forests and down to the cobalt Atlantic. We witnessed the Tajogaite volcano, created in the massive 2021 eruption you probably saw on TV. It's fascinating to get so close to such recent volcanic activity in an archipelago that is basically just the tips of eight giant volcanoes. 7 Culture beyond the bars The karaoke bars tempt alongside pubs showing British sports in the resorts. Beyond is an archipelago alive with culture. The original inhabitants – before the Spanish piled in – left their traces with carvings and stories that linger through generations. On Tenerife you've got the UNESCO World Heritage listed city of La Laguna with its gorgeous hanging wooden balconies and the world-class Auditorio de Tenerife. Gran Canaria has the old town of La Vegueta and La Gomera was the last place Columbus stopped en route to the Americas. I love jogging around the Torre del Condo, imagining Columbus here in 1492. Bountiful Beaches This is what most people are drawn by, but some of the best are found on the more overlooked islands. Tenerife is not my favourite island for beaches – I prefer the third largest isle, Fuerteventura. The Parque Natural de Corralejo sports mile upon mile of Sahara-esque dunes and gorgeous beaches. It's just south of Corralejo, a resort popular with Brits and is easily my favourite Canarian resort. Corralejo offers the best of all worlds. It sports all the touristy trimmings, plus great walking, epic seafood, a real Spanish vibe and brilliant beaches. Real variety too with kitesurfing, day trips to Lanzarote and a big Italian community. In short it's as wonderfully varied as the Canaries.
Business Mayor
24-04-2025
- Business Mayor
Walking in Greece: helping to restore the ancient trails of Andros island
A rmed with gloves and pruners, my friend and I are near Pythara waterfall above Chora – the capital of the Greek island of Andros – and we are cutting back thorny and overhanging vegetation. We're helping out the local volunteer association, Andros Routes, which has been restoring a network of ancient mule tracks, from the coast to the interior and its low mountains. The tracks form part of a new walking holiday that allows us to explore the pretty island on foot – and give something back, too. Andros, Athens and northern Cyclades The eight-day trip with Ramble Worldwide takes you from the south-east to the north-west, from Ormos Korthiou to Gavrio, via Chora on the east coast, with accommodation in low-key hotels and luggage transfer between them. Daily routes are only suggested: guests can choose full-on trekking days or easy circular walks, customising the holiday to suit energy levels and using buses or taxis to skip sections if desired. Along the way you can choose to help with the maintenance of the paths (secateurs and gloves are delivered to your hotel). Andros Routes started life in 2010 under the aegis of the sustainable tourism expert Olga Karayiannis, who returned to the island, after living in Athens, on a mission to conserve local heritage, cultural and natural. So far, 100 miles (160km) of trails have been restored and broken into numbered sections – with plans to extend them to 150 miles – and each part has its own 'angel' who checks up on the route and steps in when a problem is reported. The writer cutting back unruly foliage on the way to Chora. Photograph: Rhonda Carrier As we descend slowly from Pythara towards the glittering Mediterranean at Chora, cats amble across our path or look on as we stop to cut back spiky bushes, pick up rubbish, move stones or check on the state of signposts. Lizards dart and butterflies kiss our bare legs as we sidle past houses where courgettes and tomatoes sprout in wild abundance. We stop to sniff wild jasmine, mints of different kinds, rosemary, oregano and lavender, and walk on carpets of figs that have tumbled from the trees. We are deep in lush vegetation, passing through shaded valleys, walking past old ruined chapels where goats now take shelter We pass cacti and olive groves on our way down to the sea and make out caves in cliffs where locals once hid from Turkish invaders, and where monks have also sought sanctuary. We discover shaded pools where, according to folklore, fairies reside, and walk alongside chapels and ruined watermills. We end our walk with a swim in the cool green sea at Gialia beach, just outside Chora, and then sip fresh juice from the Votsalo beach bar's watermelon garden. To get more of an insight into the Andros Routes project, guests can time a trip to coincide with a communal maintenance walk (held every second weekend in spring, autumn and winter, and flagged up on the organisation's news page). We meet two of the 'angels', fortysomethings Valentini and Vicky, who join us for part of the walk and share stories about Andros and vegetation, and why the routes are so important, to them and this island. Most of the 'angels' are women, appropriate on this island known for its culture of strong women who held the fort while the men were at sea. The waterfalls of Pythara. Photograph: Stamatios Manousis/Alamy Islanders love these pathways, they tell us, the oldest parts of which date back to 1200, and they can already see how the scheme is helping to reinvigorate the island, once rich through its shipbuilding industry. Olga's vision is ultimately one of a 'chain of sustainability' where visitors support locals by eating in their homes and staying in restored old stone houses. This will add options to the trial bunkhouse for eight, Hikers Lodge 'Konaki' in Katakalei village, near Apikia. It's also helping to extend the tourist season, with more people coming in March–May and September–November for the more pleasant walking temperatures. An interactive map has been created to help walkers visit small-scale producers and artisans on the island In the evening, my friend and I stroll the section of the path from Mesaria to Menites, following ancient irrigation channels that bring water down from the mountains. In the village of Menites, Andros Routes works with the cultural association and we happen upon a children's looming workshop in the community centre; Andros used to be known for silk production because of its mulberry trees, and cultural association leader (and Route Angel) Despina is among those trying to keep the tradition alive. Olga is also one of the founders of the Andros Research Center, which has created an interactive map to help walkers visit small-scale producers and artisans on the island, with bookable visits to cheese-makers, jam-makers and beekeepers (and others) to see their work in action and stock up on goodies. Or you may just see them at work as you amble along. We stop to watch a local beekeeper tending to his hives. skip past newsletter promotion Get travel inspiration, featured trips and local tips for your next break, as well as the latest deals from Guardian Holidays Privacy Notice: Newsletters may contain info about charities, online ads, and content funded by outside parties. For more information see our Privacy Policy. We use Google reCaptcha to protect our website and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. after newsletter promotion As days pass, the walks vary: some days we ramble all day, on others we take shortcuts by bus or taxi and do just a couple of hours, paying more attention to the things that need maintaining, and helping out with our secateurs where we can. In some places we are deep in the kind of lush vegetation that keeps the volunteers busy, passing through shaded valleys, walking past old ruined chapels where goats now take shelter. Other areas are more rocky and arid, and copious sunscreen is a must. Gavrio on the west coast of Andros. Photograph: Apostolis Giontzis/Alamy One of our favourite days is spent exploring inland around the villages of Remata and Katakilos, which includes lots of steep, challenging-but-rewarding uphills. The section contrasts sharply with the final part of that route between the resort of Batsi and the ferry port of Gavrio, which is flatter, with heart-stirring coastal views. We take a photo of a sign that's starting to collapse but hasn't been noticed because it's in quite a remote spot, to send back to Andros Routes so it can be fixed. When we reach our final hotel, the charmingly low-key Irene Studios, on San Pedro beach just outside Gavrio, we hang up our walking boots and decide to chill instead of walk that day. There, with uninhabited islands as a dreamy backdrop, we swim in the Aegean and relax at great-value beach bars serving Greek salads, paellas, sangrias and the like – the perfect antidote to hike-weary limbs.
The Guardian
23-04-2025
- The Guardian
Walking in Greece: helping to restore the ancient trails of Andros island
Armed with gloves and pruners, my friend and I are near Pythara waterfall above Chora – the capital of the Greek island of Andros – and we are cutting back thorny and overhanging vegetation. We're helping out the local volunteer association, Andros Routes, which has been restoring a network of ancient mule tracks, from the coast to the interior and its low mountains. The tracks form part of a new walking holiday that allows us to explore the pretty island on foot – and give something back, too. The eight-day trip with Ramble Worldwide takes you from the south-east to the north-west, from Ormos Korthiou to Gavrio, via Chora on the east coast, with accommodation in low-key hotels and luggage transfer between them. Daily routes are only suggested: guests can choose full-on trekking days or easy circular walks, customising the holiday to suit energy levels and using buses or taxis to skip sections if desired. Along the way you can choose to help with the maintenance of the paths (secateurs and gloves are delivered to your hotel). Andros Routes started life in 2010 under the aegis of the sustainable tourism expert Olga Karayiannis, who returned to the island, after living in Athens, on a mission to conserve local heritage, cultural and natural. So far, 100 miles (160km) of trails have been restored and broken into numbered sections – with plans to extend them to 150 miles – and each part has its own 'angel' who checks up on the route and steps in when a problem is reported. As we descend slowly from Pythara towards the glittering Mediterranean at Chora, cats amble across our path or look on as we stop to cut back spiky bushes, pick up rubbish, move stones or check on the state of signposts. Lizards dart and butterflies kiss our bare legs as we sidle past houses where courgettes and tomatoes sprout in wild abundance. We stop to sniff wild jasmine, mints of different kinds, rosemary, oregano and lavender, and walk on carpets of figs that have tumbled from the trees. We pass cacti and olive groves on our way down to the sea and make out caves in cliffs where locals once hid from Turkish invaders, and where monks have also sought sanctuary. We discover shaded pools where, according to folklore, fairies reside, and walk alongside chapels and ruined watermills. We end our walk with a swim in the cool green sea at Gialia beach, just outside Chora, and then sip fresh juice from the Votsalo beach bar's watermelon garden. To get more of an insight into the Andros Routes project, guests can time a trip to coincide with a communal maintenance walk (held every second weekend in spring, autumn and winter, and flagged up on the organisation's news page). We meet two of the 'angels', fortysomethings Valentini and Vicky, who join us for part of the walk and share stories about Andros and vegetation, and why the routes are so important, to them and this island. Most of the 'angels' are women, appropriate on this island known for its culture of strong women who held the fort while the men were at sea. Islanders love these pathways, they tell us, the oldest parts of which date back to 1200, and they can already see how the scheme is helping to reinvigorate the island, once rich through its shipbuilding industry. Olga's vision is ultimately one of a 'chain of sustainability' where visitors support locals by eating in their homes and staying in restored old stone houses. This will add options to the trial bunkhouse for eight, Hikers Lodge 'Konaki' in Katakalei village, near Apikia. It's also helping to extend the tourist season, with more people coming in March–May and September–November for the more pleasant walking temperatures. In the evening, my friend and I stroll the section of the path from Mesaria to Menites, following ancient irrigation channels that bring water down from the mountains. In the village of Menites, Andros Routes works with the cultural association and we happen upon a children's looming workshop in the community centre; Andros used to be known for silk production because of its mulberry trees, and cultural association leader (and Route Angel) Despina is among those trying to keep the tradition alive. Olga is also one of the founders of the Andros Research Center, which has created an interactive map to help walkers visit small-scale producers and artisans on the island, with bookable visits to cheese-makers, jam-makers and beekeepers (and others) to see their work in action and stock up on goodies. Or you may just see them at work as you amble along. We stop to watch a local beekeeper tending to his hives. Sign up to The Traveller Get travel inspiration, featured trips and local tips for your next break, as well as the latest deals from Guardian Holidays after newsletter promotion As days pass, the walks vary: some days we ramble all day, on others we take shortcuts by bus or taxi and do just a couple of hours, paying more attention to the things that need maintaining, and helping out with our secateurs where we can. In some places we are deep in the kind of lush vegetation that keeps the volunteers busy, passing through shaded valleys, walking past old ruined chapels where goats now take shelter. Other areas are more rocky and arid, and copious sunscreen is a must. One of our favourite days is spent exploring inland around the villages of Remata and Katakilos, which includes lots of steep, challenging-but-rewarding uphills. The section contrasts sharply with the final part of that route between the resort of Batsi and the ferry port of Gavrio, which is flatter, with heart-stirring coastal views. We take a photo of a sign that's starting to collapse but hasn't been noticed because it's in quite a remote spot, to send back to Andros Routes so it can be fixed. When we reach our final hotel, the charmingly low-key Irene Studios, on San Pedro beach just outside Gavrio, we hang up our walking boots and decide to chill instead of walk that day. There, with uninhabited islands as a dreamy backdrop, we swim in the Aegean and relax at great-value beach bars serving Greek salads, paellas, sangrias and the like – the perfect antidote to hike-weary limbs. The trip was provided by Ramble Worldwide, its eight-night Walking on Andros holiday costs from £729pp B&B, including transfers, ferry from Rafina to Andros, luggage transfers, maps and route descriptions, and 24-hour telephone assistance. Departures between May and October 2025
The Independent
30-01-2025
- The Independent
The best holidays to book for March 2025, from Puglia's coastline to Moroccan adventures
When spring finally arrives in March, make the most of the longer days of sunshine with a welcome change of scenery. Easter isn't for another month yet, so prices should remain stable. Keen hikers will want to head to southern Italy for pleasantly mild days along the Adriatic's coastal paths, while skiers in France can head to quieter slopes now that the February half-term crowds have gone. Soak up the sunshine in Tenerife, where you can hike Spain 's highest mountain or just relax on an Atlantic beach. Mix the mountains and deserts of Morocco with a spell in Marrakech. Stay closer to home and roam the hills of the Peak District, or revel in the sea breezes of the Pembrokeshire coast in Wales. Whatever type of holiday you're planning for March, you'll find some ideas here. Italy Southern Italy's Puglia region can be blisteringly hot in the summer, but hikers who want to explore this part of the Adriatic coast will find March's mid-teens temperatures much more pleasant. Ramble Worldwide has a four-night self-guided walk along Puglia's coastal trail from Otranto to Gagliano del Capo, through orange orchards and olive groves amid the scent of spring blossom, and with sea views stretching to the Albanian mountain on the other side of the Adriatic. Then you're transferred to the baroque town of Lecce for a final day of cultural exploration. Prices start at £599pp and include breakfast, one dinner, transfers and luggage transport, but not flights. France Many skiers love March's longer days and slightly milder temperatures. Samoëns in Haute Savoie's Grand Massif ski domain – the fourth largest in France – is full of village charm, great restaurants and food shops. Plus, it's on the doorstep of 265km of pistes. Peak Retreats has a week's self-catering at La Résidence Club Samoëns Village on 29 March from £1,210, including a free FlexiPlus upgrade on Le Shuttle. The residence's wellness centre has an indoor and outdoor pool, and there's a packed schedule of events for children. Book before 5 February for a 15 per cent discount. Peak District Springtime walks in the Peak District and a village pub within 500 yards make a pretty good combination. Bosing Barn in the tiny village of Kniveton north of Ashbourne is an appealing base for a family or two couples (plus dog). High beamed ceilings, a wood-burning stove, exposed stone walls and oak floors make everything cosy, and it's all done with great style. If there's a hint of springtime warmth in the air, use the barbecue on the large patio outside. Available through Peak Cottages, it costs £669, down from £737, for a week's self-catering from 10 March. Morocco Spring is a good time to visit Morocco, before the heat becomes oppressive. On this four-day Desert with the Nomads tour with Fleewinter, you start in the High Atlas before carrying on to the Draa Valley with the chance to camp in the desert and drive across Lake Iriqi, perhaps going on a camel ride and quad bike tour of the dunes. Prices start at £550pp and include breakfast and transfers. Flights are extra, and you can top and tail the holiday with a stay in Marrakech. Tenerife It's carnival season in Tenerife, which can make finding accommodation tricky. The main carnival in Santa Cruz continues until 9 March, with more festivities going on in Los Gigantes and Puerto de la Cruz. Come after the carnival for a more laid-back experience, especially in one of the Villas Coral La Quinta, a short drive from Puerto de la Cruz. They all have three bedrooms and private pools, and a week's self-catering with Cachet Travel departing 21 March costs from £1,948pp based on two sharing, or £998pp based on six. The price includes flights and car hire. Wales If you fancy doing a bit of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, then stay at one of the former lighthouse keepers' cottages at the tip of St Ann's Head. Number 1 cottage has three bedrooms, a wood burner, an Aga and a large patio with a pizza oven, barbecue and panoramic sea views. Booked through Wales Cottage Holidays, it costs from £703 for seven nights' self-catering, and up to two dogs are welcome at an extra charge.
