Hello 2021. We never thought we would be greeting you like this!
We all need something to look forward to, and no-one could have envisaged the situation we all find ourselves in. Therefore, we are busy preparing for trekking in 2021 – and at the same time planning in case some of our Clients remain unable to travel, because if 2020 taught us anything it was to adapt - to adjust expectations as necessary and continue to embrace the reality of life.
New Treks for 2021
We are excited about the new routes we have to offer including two fully guided treks:
Fully Guided Dolomites Trek – Alta Via 1
Located in north eastern Italy the Dolomite mountain range is of truly exceptional geological beauty. The region offers something a little different from the Alps, this is a truly dramatic landscape, from the towering limestone peaks, sculptured spires, lunar like plateaux to deciduous and ever green forests and lush alpine meadows. Recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2009 this is a must do for any outdoor enthusiast and seasoned hiker.
On the 11th September we are looking forward to enjoying 11 nights and 8 days trekking the marvellous Alta Via 1 which makes for a great all-round experience if you have never hiked in Italy before. We have deliberately booked this trek for the end of the season in case some of Clients booked onto earlier treks find that Covid-19 restrictions affect them…
Fully Guided Hike of the Annapurna
The Annapurna range rises from the heart of the Himalayas, forming the central core of the great 2,550 km Himalayan arc that is the planet’s highest mountain range. This is a relatively accessible this area encapsulates the Himalayas, the culture, the people, the lush tropical foothills to the barren high valleys & pristine towering peaks.
On the 18th October we will be embarking upon a 15 day holiday. Including a 9 day cultural as well as physical journey through the Annapurna National Park, from Nayapul in the south to Muktinath in the north. Taking in the best of the Annapurna circuit with the additions of some lesser-known trails recommended by local guides from Pokhara. A diversity of terrain & culture, from lush green foothills with pretty terraces & picturesque Gurkha villages to barren, Tibet- like landscape, though deep forested gorges, Buddhist villages & temples. Passing close by two of the planets tallest peaks, Dhauulagiri (8167m), Annapurna 1 (8091m) & seven summits over 7000m & Annapurna 2,3,4, Annapurna South & Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre & Tuckuche Peak.
This hike is going ahead in October, so we can offer any guests affected by Coronavirus earlier in the year something to look forward to. However, there are only 3 places left on this trek, so please be aware this alternative is very limited.
New Bespoke Treks for 2021
In order to be as flexible as possible we have introduced a whole new program of European treks for 2021. Having felt the huge downs of having to cancel peoples treks last year made us appreciate even more those holidays that people enjoyed. And we want to be in the best position to offer you the ability to trek in the midst of these unprecedented times of uncertainty.
These completely bespoke holidays allow you to tell us exactly what you are looking for, from trek levels, to food requirements, dates, duration and of course location. We can help you to realise your dream of hiking a well-known route or walking a path less travelled. Self-guided or guided with our local UIMLA International Mountain Leaders.
Each trek is built around you, with the added security of using only one base to hike from and to each day. This means you have no worries about COVID-19 regulations in new hotels each night as you come “home” to one of our tried and trusted hotels who ensure that Coronavirus regulations are adhered to at all times.
You can choose to be based in Zermatt in Switzerland, Chamonix in France or Courmayeur in Italy. Each of these locations is simple to get to by land or air and allows you access to the most stunning treks in the Alps.
Adaptability
If for some reason your trek can’t go ahead exactly as you thought, rest assured we have your back! In order to continue to dream and to trek we now plan for the best and have a back-up plan for the worst!
We have planned a great trekking season for 2021, however this pandemic has forced us into acquiring a new patience that I most certainly never had before! So, let’s plan ahead and then let’s practice waiting - if something puts a barrier to our immediate plans, it’s actually no big deal to wait - the world isn’t going to implode, we will get there in the end.
Somebody famous said “Patience is the ability to idle your motor when you feel like stripping your gears.” And they were right! Patience is not a virtue. It is an achievement - and we will be rewarded in the end.
