| Go take a hike! |
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| Written by Gillian Thomas, 2008 | |
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Page 2 of 2 Following canalsIn France, Burgundy also offers the option of perfectly flat walking beside scenic canals, combined, of course, with plenty of opportunities for wine-tasting.Guided and self-guided holidays are offered by Escapade Gourmande in Burgundy's Chablis area, including tastings at famous 'domaines'. As the name suggests, food and wine are an important feature of these holidays. Around Macon, served by TGV trains from Paris (95 minutes), the no.7 bus route is popular with walkers as it serves famous places like Cluny and Cormatin, which are linked by an old railway line, now the 73-mile Voie Vert - the Green Way. One of the handiest and most spectacular of France's Grandes Randonnées long-distance paths is GR 343, the coastal route around western Brittany. It takes you along rugged headlands and grassy dunes with glorious sea views all the way. There's no doubt that once you've got the walking bug, sitting-on-the-beach and put-your-feet-up holidays are never quite as appealing again. For a little luxury with your walking, why not look at the Warner Leisure Hotels 'adults exclusively' brochure? Coming up soon are guided walks at Cricket St Thomas in Somerset (8 September and 20 October), Holme Lacy House in Herefordshire (22 September), and Littlecote House in Berkshire (3 November), with 2009 dates still to be finalised. There are different walks for different levels of fitness. The supplement for the walks is £45 per person, in addition to the cost of the break. Holidays include comfortable en suite double accommodation in stunning country house properties, huge English breakfasts, numerous recreational activities, leisure facilities, delicious three course dinners and live nightly entertainment. Freephone 0800 1388 399, www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk Walking holidaysUK www.greenwaysholidays.com www.hfholidays.co.uk www.knobblystick.com www.ramblersholidays.co.uk www.westcountrywalks.com Europe www.escapadegourmande.com www.headwater.com www.inntravel.co.uk www.rheinsteig.de www.thomsonlakes.co.uk Worldwide www.exodus.co.uk (90 countries) www.explore.co.uk (130 countries) Fancy strolling or rambling on a 'short break' rather than a full-blown holiday? There are plenty of these on offer at the WI's Denman College, some themed, some combined with other activities such as swimming or dance; some extending over four days and some just a weekend. And remember, the college welcomes all comers, not just members. For details and a course programme tel: 01865 391991 or follow the links on the WI website: www.theWI.org.uk |
