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Apuans & Apennines

Away from the Tuscan tourist trail lies a beautiful secluded valley shielded from the outside world by a horse-shoe of mountains.

  • Tuscany

  • 14 nights
  • Half Board
  • Landscape

    Mountains

  • Jun

    Jul

    Aug

    Sep

Challenging

What does this mean?

Tour codes: 17220

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Walking grade

Grade 6

Full day walks with appreciable amounts of ascent and descent and longer distances covered.  Whilst you will be mainly on paths, these may be rough, steep, and loose at times. We take the whole day to enjoy some fabulous walks.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 8 miles; Ascent/Descent 850m; Terrain: sometimes rough, lose or steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs / Full Day walks.

Please ensure to read the 'Proposed Itinerary' for a more accurate description of daily activities on each holiday, and if unsure please contact one of our friendly experts for advice. 

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Ascend the Pania di Corfino for its spectacular panoramic view of the Apuan Range.
  • Walk in the lovely recently created Parco Nazionale Tosco Emiliano.
  • Have the option of walking the fascinating Orrido di Botri gorge.
  • Ascend the Pania della Croce, known as the Queen of the Apuans, and a wonderful walk at both grades.
  • Visit the unique, picturesque Cinque Terre, deservedly a World Heritage Site.

Away from the Tuscan tourist trail lies the Garfagnana Valley, a beautiful secluded valley, shielded from the outside world by a horseshoe of mountains. To the west is the range of the Apuan Alps, to the east and north the Apennines. We walk in both, ascending to mountain peaks and following ridges. There are magnificent views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and its islands below from the Apuan peaks; there are magnificent views of the Tuscan mountains from just about everywhere. Lower down in the valley, we visit the valley's medieval hamlets and castles, and walk on pilgrims' routes.

The walking here is outstanding. Monte Sumbra (1770m) is a good peak to start with, with great views while not too demanding. The Pania di Corfino (1607m) is a lovely mountain walk with a panoramic view of the Apuans across the valley. The Pania della Croce (1858m) is the most famous peak in the Apuan range. We have many peaks to choose from but the idea is not just to get to the top for its own sake but to take our time and enjoy the countryside on the way up and down. Early summer is good for flowers.

The curiously named ‘00' footpath along the watershed between Tuscany and Emilia Romagna offers panoramic views of the Apennines, the Apuans and the valley, as do so many of our walks here at either grade.

A highlight of our programme is the world-famous coastline of the Cinque Terre, declared a World Heritage Site in 1997, with the choice of visiting it either on foot or by means of a sail along the coast. Another is the natural gorge of the Orrido di Botri, already known by Dante, who based the gates to Hell in his Inferno on it, and a nesting site for golden eagles: another unique walk, but non-gorge-lovers are offered an alternative walk above the hotel, taking in the picturesque hamlet of Sillico.

The walled medieval city of Lucca is easily accessible on the free day by single-track railway. A visit to the Grotta del Vento, one of the finest limestone cave systems in Europe, is also possible.

Please ensure to read the Holiday Information Sheet as in 2023 our holiday becomes a one grade one leader.

  • Return flights from London to Pisa
  • Airport transfers
  • Half board en suite accommodation
  • Water & wine included with dinner
  • All local transport costs.
  • Entrance fees (unless otherwise specified)
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions
  • Travel Insurance

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival Day

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

We fly into Pisa airport and transfer to Hotel La Lanterna in Castelnuovo di Garfagnana.

Transfer Time = 1h 30m

Day 2

Castelnuovo and the Serchio Valley

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    9.1 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    460m

This is a circular walk out from, and back to, the hotel.  We will be exploring Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, its fortress and ancient hamlets along the Serchio River.

Day 3

La Vetricia to San Pellegrino Pass ridge walk

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5.5 hours

  • Distance

    7.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    710/500m

Starting at a mountain refuge, we climb to and then follow the high level long-distance 00 footpath along the mountainous former state border between Tuscany and its neighbour, Emilia Romagna, with 360° views.

Day 4

Free day

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

Suggestions include: A day in Lucca: walking or cycling around the city walls, visiting Puccini’s home, now a museum, and wandering through narrow streets and squares. A visit to Barga, famous for its architecture, its jazz festival and its Scottish connections. Taking a local train up the single-track railway to anywhere striking your interest. A leisurely day by the outdoor swimming pool.

Day 5

Monte Sumbra

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5.5 hours

  • Distance

    7 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    1080/1330m

We ascend through beech woods to emerge in the heart of the Apuans with spectacular views including Lake Vagli (famous for its drowned village) to the north and the Panias Group to the south. There is a dramatic descent, through meadows, and rock formations, with views of the picturesque Isola Santa below, arriving at the village Capanne di Careggine.

Day 6

Monte Forato

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    6.9 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    850m

Starting and finishing at the remote village of Fornovolasco the route ascends through wooded slopes to emerge onto the ridge on which is situated Monte Forato. This is a twin summit feature with a natural rock arch connecting the two peaks.  On clear days you can see the shores of the Tyrrhenian through the near circular aperture formed by the arch.  The hole has a height of about 26 m, while the arch itself is some 8 m thick.

Day 7

Pania della Croce

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    4.9 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    790m

Known as the ‘Queen of the Apuans’ and is one of the highest, and most famous and beautiful Apuan peaks. Starting from Monte Piglionicco, the walk includes a stop at a mountain refuge, Rifugio Rossi, a rocky ascent, then a spectacular ridge, looking down at the Tyrrhenian Sea and islands below. After lunch on the top, we return by the same or similar route.

Day 8

Pania di Corfino

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    7.1 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    490/920m

Transfer to second centre, taking in Pania di Corfino (1607m) on the way. After packing up and leaving Hotel La Lanterna, we have a full day’s walk in the Tosco-Emiliano National Park, the southern extremity of which lies between the two centres. The walk ascends to the top of Pania di Corfino, with glorious views of the whole Apuan range across the valley. Returning to the coach, we continue our journey to Hotel Belverdere.

Day 9

Lake Gramolazzo

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5.5 hours

  • Distance

    10.9 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    480m

The first walk takes a route through the woods from the hotel to and from Lake Gramolazzo, with some free time at the lake. Swimming is possible.

Day 10

Pradarena Pass to Le Porraie circular

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5.5 hours

  • Distance

    8.4 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    460m

A high-level circular walk starting from the mountain pass of Passo di Pradarena, traversing the slopes of the ridge before ascending to it.

Day 11

Monte Prado / Monte Vecchio

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5.5 hours

  • Distance

    8.2 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    600/830m

From the Visitor’s Centre in the Tosco-Emiliano National Park, we ascend to the grassy ridge between Tuscany and Emilia Romagna with its 360° views. The walk ascends to the peak of Monte Vecchio, at 1983m.

Day 12

Free day

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

A local walk or a leisurely day by the outdoor swimming pool.

Day 13

Le Cinque Terre

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    3.5 hours

  • Distance

    6.9 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    500/530m

In view of the now world-famous beauty of the Cinque Terre both for walking and sightseeing, after travelling by our own coach to La Spezia in the ‘Bay of Poets’, there are two possible options for the day: (weather dependent). Either a leisurely sail along the coast, stopping off to visit 2 or 3 of the Five Villages: or a 4-hour walk starting from the village of Riomaggiore a short train journey from La Spezia.  There are great views of the Cinque Terre as we walk along the ridge which runs parallel to the coast before turning North to Biassa and then descending in an Easterly direction to La Spezia, the walking option still has some time for sightseeing in both Riomaggiore and La Spezia

In the event of bad weather, the leader may need to adapt the programme for the sailing option as the boat cannot dock at two of the villages with rocky harbours: in this case, the plus would be having time to call at the attractive Porto Venere.

Day 14

Monte Tondo

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    6 hours

  • Distance

    10.6 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    400/1130m

We start walking from Passo di Pradarena, at over 5,000 feet, and follow the watershed between Tuscany and Emilia Romagna. The walk includes an ascent of Monte Tondo (1782m), followed by a steady descent through the woods via the ruins of the Ospitale di Tea and the Sanctuary of Monte Argegna on the ancient pilgrim’s route of the Volto Santo, back to the hotel.

Day 15

Final day

Meals

Breakfast

Departure from the hotel for the drive to Pisa Airport for return to the UK.

Departure dates for your selected tour

18th Jun 2024 - 2nd Jul 2024 (14 Nights)

9th Jul 2024 - 23rd Jul 2024 (14 Nights)

27th Aug 2024 - 10th Sep 2024 (14 Nights)

3rd Sep 2024 - 17th Sep 2024 (14 Nights)

Travel Details

  • Return flights from London to Pisa
  • Airport transfers by road c. 1 hour 30 minutes
  • We can offer regional flight options but due to the location and travelling time to our resort we operate just one transfer coach between the airport and our hotel to coincide with our main group. This may mean that there is a wait at the overseas airport in one or both directions.
  • Upgrades are available on most flights. For scheduled flights this may be Premium Economy, Business or First Class. Most low-cost carriers also have extra legroom seats.
  • If direct regional flights are not available, we can often offer add-on flights to a London airport at a competitive rate. Please ask us for details and a competitive quote.

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

Hotel La Lanterna

Our first hotel is the Hotel La Lanterna located on a balcony above the main town in the Garfagnana Valley, Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, and about a kilometre from the village of Pieve Fosciana.

Initially the La Lanterna started life 40 years ago primarily as a restaurant followed by the hotel run by the dedicated Turri family. It is not surprising then that the food has remained at the heart of the hotel. Particularly look out for local produce such as their cheeses, chestnuts, honey and porcini mushrooms.

The hotel has a large outdoor swimming pool and wi-fi in public areas. All rooms are equipped with fridge, hairdryers and TV.

There are two supermarkets a short walk from the hotel, as well as baker’s, greengrocer’s and other shops in Pieve Fosciana, perfect for putting together a picnic to enjoy on your walks. However, the hotel also provides picnic lunches on request. There is a small local market in Pieve Fosciana on Saturdays and a larger market in Castelnuovo on Thursdays. Pieve Fosciana and Castelnuovo both have all the amenities you would need for a comfortable stay such as post offices and banks with ATM machines.

Hotel Belvedere

The Hotel Belvedere at Passo dei Carpinelli sits at an altitude of 850m. The hotel offers beautifully situated outdoor swimming pool. Rooms are equipped with wi-fi, satellite TV and hairdryer.

Please note all bathrooms are showers only.

The nearest town with supermarkets, banks and post office is Piazza al Serchio about 10 kms from the hotel.

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

Full day walks with appreciable amounts of ascent and descent and longer distances covered.  Whilst you will be mainly on paths, these may be rough, steep, and loose at times. We take the whole day to enjoy some fabulous walks.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 8 miles; Ascent/Descent 850m; Terrain: sometimes rough, lose or steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs / Full Day walks.

Please ensure to read the 'Proposed Itinerary' for a more accurate description of daily activities on each holiday, and if unsure please contact one of our friendly experts for advice. 

Walks & Excursions

Local Transport Costs

In the holiday cost, we've included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity program for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.

Optional Excursions

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.

Currency in Italy

The currency in Italy is the Euro.

Tipping

In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.

Tour Leaders & Local Guides

Tour Leaders

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organized they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Leader's Evening Briefing

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the program for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organized group program, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

Your Travel Details

We fly from London to Pisa and return with British Airways. 

Travel between Pisa Airport and the hotel is by road and takes approximately one and a half hours.

The transfer between Casone-Carpinelli and Castelnuovo di Garfagnana take around 40 minutes, however we will be making the most the day by taking in another walk.

Booking Your Own Travel Arrangements

If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.

Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.

If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.

Although airport transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport, depending on your flight arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.

Please be aware that your flight must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.

Hotel Transfers

When you book a Flight-Inclusive holiday, transfers between the airport and hotel and back are included. On some holidays, where we offer various flight options, the transfer vehicle may wait for all flights to land before transferring to the hotel.  

Luggage Allowance & Travel Documents

If you're booking a flight or rail inclusive holiday, rest assured that details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.

Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Passports and Visas

European Passport Advice

If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must meet the Schengen area rules.

Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:

  • less than 10 years old on the day you enter (check the ‘date of issue’)
  • valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

For some Schengen countries your passport may need to be less than 10 years old during your whole visit, and the 3 months at the end of your visit may need to be within 10 years of your passport’s issue date.

Check both the issue date and the expiry date in your passport. If you renewed your passport early, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. This could affect the requirement for your passport to be less than 10 years old.

Non British Passport holders should consult the host country’s embassy for applicable passport and visa entry requirements.

Meals

Breakfasts and dinners are included in the holiday charge and will be taken at the hotels. Lunches are not included. Please note both hotels are happy to provide ceoliac diets for clients requiring them.

Initially the La Lanterna started life 40 years ago primarily as a restaurant followed by the hotel run by the dedicated Turri family. It is not surprising then that the food has remained at the heart of the hotel. Particularly look out for local produce such as their cheeses, chestnuts, honey and porcini mushrooms.

The hotel Belvedere has an excellent reputation for food; again, expect good wholesome mountain dishes, polenta, pasta and local produce. The hotel provides picnic lunches on request. Otherwise, there is a small grocer’s 5 mins walk from the hotel.

Also wine is included at your evening meals. We do ask you to be modest though as the typical Italian would only drink 1/3 of a bottle with dinner.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Lightweight quick-drying trousers
  • Walking T-shirt/shirts
  • Walking socks
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
  • Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
  • Swimwear (if appropriate)
  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
  • Day sack liner
  • Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity (more than 1 bottle may be required)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)
  • Sit mat

This list is not exhaustive and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

Holiday Specific Kit

In the Orrido di Botri Gorge the water could be ankle to knee deep. We advise you bring extra footwear that you don’t mind getting wet for this walk. Lace up trainers would be perfect and this means your walking boots will stay nice and dry ready for the next days’ exploration.  

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Passport (make sure it's yours and valid)
  • Your travel tickets or e-ticket itinerary
  • Any visa or electronic travel authorisation (if required)
  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Your holiday Booking Confirmation document
  • Your travel insurance details
  • Alternative form of identification (such as a driving licence)
  • Photocopy of the personal details pages of your passport
  • A valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if relevant
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Electricity in Italy

Electricity in Italy is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/

Water To Go

Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.

Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.

As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.                        

Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday departing after November 1, 2023, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

Maps, Guidebooks & More

The following maps have proved useful:

Carta Dei Sentieri e Rifugi / Appennino Toscoemiliano 1:25000  Sheet 18
Carta Dei Sentieri e Rifugi / Appennino Toscoemiliano 1:25000 Sheet 20
Carta Dei Sentieri: CAI Alto Appennino Modenese: Parco del Frignano 1: 25000
Alpi Alpuane della Garfagnana 1:20000 (Edizioni Multigraphic Firenze)
Parco Nazionale Appennino Tosco-emiliano 1:25000 Foglio Est
Carta Dei Sentieri e Rifugi / Appennino Toscoemiliano 1:25000 Sheet 15

Many local libraries stock a good selection of travel guides/books which may offer you more information on the Tuscany region.

You may find the following websites useful:

Italian State Tourism: www.enit.it 
Tuscany Tourist Office: www.turismo.intoscana.it/en/
Garfagnana Tourist Information: www.turismo.provincia.lucca.it/en

The Map Shop

If you cannot find the maps or books locally we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

Weather

Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for Italy

No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Italy.

You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK. 

You may wish to consider immunisations against Tetanus and Tick-borne Encephalitis.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.

EHIC & GHIC Cards

Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.

It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.

For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic

Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

Italian Laws & Customs

In some Italian towns and cities you may be fined for dropping litter and in some towns or cities it’s an offence to sit on monument steps or to eat and drink in the immediate vicinity of main churches, historic monuments and public buildings. It’s also an offence to enter or bathe in public fountains.

In May 2019, the Municipality of Capri introduced a law forbidding the use of any disposable plastic objects such as bags, cutlery, plates, cups, food packaging, trays, straws on the island of Capri. Violations can incur a fine of up to 500 euros.

Illegal traders operate on the streets of all major Italian cities, particularly tourist cities like Florence, Venice and Rome. Don’t buy from illegal street traders. You could be stopped by the local police and fined.

It is illegal to remove sand, shells or pebbles from coastal areas in Italy. Doing so may result in heavy fines. It’s also forbidden to collect various species of flowers, plants and herbs from mountain and wooded areas. For more information, check with the regional authorities of the area you’re visiting.

Responsible Travel

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritize the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The primary focus of our Trust's financial support is directed towards Britain's premier walking charity, The Ramblers. They play a crucial role in advocating the benefits and significance of walking to the British public. Additionally, our Trust invites applications for small grants from local organizations in the UK that require support for walking-oriented activities. This encompasses initiatives such as establishing footpaths and bridleways, funding for the reconstruction of bridges and refurbishing huts, and bursary funding for organisations that support individuals to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors..

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Heart and Sole

We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.

Staying In Touch

Mobile Phones

Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.

Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.

In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or make an effort to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.

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Useful Information

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Italy

  • Capital

    Rome

  • Currency

    Euro

  • Language

    Italian

  • Time Difference

    UTC +02:00

  • Flight duration

    2.5hrs from UK

Visas and Passports

No Visa Required

Average weather

  • January

    6°C

    Avg. Rain: 67mm

  • February

    7°C

    Avg. Rain: 62mm

  • March

    9°C

    Avg. Rain: 63mm

  • April

    12°C

    Avg. Rain: 61mm

  • May

    16°C

    Avg. Rain: 56mm

  • June

    20°C

    Avg. Rain: 47mm

  • July

    22°C

    Avg. Rain: 35mm

  • August

    22°C

    Avg. Rain: 48mm

  • September

    20°C

    Avg. Rain: 64mm

  • October

    15°C

    Avg. Rain: 89mm

  • November

    10°C

    Avg. Rain: 96mm

  • December

    7°C

    Avg. Rain: 82mm

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