Tuesday, September 29, 2015

New Exodus hiking holidays for 2016

Here are some of the new hiking holidays Exodus Travels will be offering for 2016.

Walking in the Prosecco Hills
Just an hour’s drive north of Venice, in the foothills of the Dolomites, is one of the world’s best yet largely undiscovered wine regions. Here ancient terraced vineyards clinging to the sides of every possible slope are dedicated exclusively to grapes for Italy’s most prized sparkling wine: Prosecco. Based in an elegant converted villa, located in the heart of the so called 'Prosecco Road' - Italy’s oldest wine route - we spend a week walking through picturesque rolling hills and sampling the area’s delicious cuisine and authentic bubbles. We also visit charming mediaeval villages such as Cison, Follina, Asolo as well as the beautiful capital province of Treviso.

Tour du Mont Blanc (Self-Guided)
For those confident of their walking ability we offer the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc as a self-guided itinerary. The majestic beauty of the surrounding scenery is best appreciated on foot as you walk point-to-point each day, staying in friendly hotels and auberges at night. Your main baggage is transported for you by van, and using comprehensive route notes you follow the well-marked trails across the French, Swiss and Italian Alps. The walking is challenging, but the views and the sense of achievement are well worth it!

South Africa: Trails of the Garden Route
Deep winding gorges, towering coastal vistas and ancient forests: this is a must for anyone who craves varied scenery. From conquering iconic Table Mountain to hiking to the point where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet, every day is different – and that’s before game drives and wine tasting.

Three Peaks of Ladakh
If conquering one Himalayan summit isn't enough of a challenge for you, try three peaks and five high passes! After acclimatisation time in Leh (3500m) we begin trekking from Mankarmo. The trail ascends a spectacular gorge to reach a high altitude plain at Nimaling, inhabited by Ladakhi shepherds and their huge flocks of sheep, goats and yaks. Vatseri Peak (5640m) is a good warm up before summiting our highest peak, Dzo Jongo East (6040m), which offers breath-taking views over the Karakorum and Indian Himalaya. The climb is tough, but optional and technically easy. We trek out via the third peak, Konga Ri (5680m). 

Iran: Mt Damavand Ascent
A welcome return to the Exodus map, Iran is home to Mount Damavand, a towering 5,610m peak overlooking the Caspian Sea. Rugged, rocky scenery accompanies you to the summit, a spiritual place echoing with ancient Iranian mythology and storytelling.

Sacred Mountain Lodge Trek
For the first time you can trek in Peru with Exodus but without camping. Our new trek to Ausangate, one of the most famous and beautiful peaks in the Cordillera Vilcanota range, stays in tambos, Peruvian eco-lodges committed to sustainability in this remote, mountainous environment. Not only are the tambos environmentally friendly, they’re also a great way to mingle with the Andeans who call these mountains home.




New Exodus Discovery trips for 2016

Exodus Travels will offer the following new and exciting discovery trips for 2016.

Sicily Food Adventure   
From cannoli to arancini, Sicilian food is world famous, but on this tour prepare to be overwhelmed at how varied and diverse Sicily’s cuisine really is! The various civilisations that have occupied the island over millennia have not only left an unparalleled cultural heritage, but a culinary history that sets Sicily aside from mainland Italy. Sample Palermo’s fragrant street food in its vibrant markets, practice hands-on cooking with local chefs in Trapani, sip the finest wines in Marsala and Etna and indulge in mouth-watering gelatos whilst relaxing in sun-kissed Baroque piazzas. Let food lead the way in this captivating journey through culinary and cultural highlights!

Discover the Heel of Italy   
Puglia, known for its whitewashed hill towns, traditional farmland, fine cuisine and sweeping Mediterranean coastline, is Italy’s southern heel and, until recently, its best kept secret. With a focus on art, architecture, traditions and local cuisine, this trip explores the region’s highlights. From Baroque Lecce, known as the ‘Florence of the South’, we travel to the elegant white city of Ostuni and on to the mediaeval coastal town of Otranto, where winding narrow streets conceal perfect Baroque churches. Matera is also visited, a UNESCO listed town carved into bare limestone rock, where centuries-old caves are still inhabited.

Egyptian Discoverer   
Key sites visited in Cairo and Luxor, with a cruise on a 4-star boat in between. Finish the trip snorkelling on the Red Sea.

Journey to Persia
Iran is a country of dramatic contrasts. Its scenery ranges from snow-clad mountains to vast, inhospitable deserts punctuated by attractive oasis towns, and its cities and ancient sites reveal a deep and rich history. Some of the most exquisite examples of Middle Eastern design and architecture are to be found in Iran, including the magnificent ruins of Persepolis, the dazzling Islamic centres at Isfahan and Shiraz, and beautifully-crafted gardens set in desert wastes. The rich bazaars and the ancient tradition of hospitality never fail to impress in a country which sees few tourists.

Harbin Ice & Snow Festival
The Harbin Ice Festival in northeast China's Heilongjiang province is truly one of the most awe inspiring spectacles on the planet. Entire cities of snow and ice twist and carve their shapes on the landscape, whilst artists from all over the world dream big and sculpt even bigger. As well as the festival there is time to trace the remnants of China's imperial past in Beijing's Forbidden City, the Great Wall of China and in Xi'an where we explore the Terracotta Army.

Vietnam Food Adventure
A culinary journey through Vietnam reveals a deceptive simplicity to a cuisine renowned for its fresh, natural ingredients, aromatic appeal and delicate balance of flavours. From savouring the freshest seafood in Halong Bay, sitting with the locals while sampling the best of street snacks in Hoi An, cycling through the herb gardens of Tra Que village, joining a family for a night spent on the Mekong Delta, to trying your hand at mastering a variety of regional dishes, this trip ensures that you make the most of this food lovers paradise. Each day is packed with culinary-based experiences that are best rewarded with a bia-hoi (local fresh beer) and a perch on the street-side bars to absorb the fascinating culture of this gastronomical land.
As well as enjoying the culinary landscape this trip ensures that the cultural highlights of Vietnam are visited; the conservative north, the rich heritage of the imperial cities, and the vibrant life of Saigon and the Mekong Delta. We come face to face with an outgoing culture, where so much goes on in the streets: eating, washing, socialising, buying and selling or impromptu games. This intoxicating parade of Vietnamese daily life may well leave us with our strongest memories, as much as the superb landscapes, the amazing cuisine and the reminders of the distant and the more recent past.

Philippines Adventure
The Philippines is a land of over 7000 islands defined by its emerald rice terraces, smouldering volcanoes, unique Spanish-Filipino colonial architecture and white sand beaches. We start our adventure in the teeming capital of Manila before making our way to the mountains and lush countryside of North Luzon, home to hundreds of ethnic groups. After admiring the volcanic crater lake of Mt. Pinatubo and the tiered agricultural land of Banaue, we journey to the island of Palawan where we explore the underground network of rivers and caves in the Puerto Princessa N.P. We spend the end of our adventure in El Nido, amongst the enchanting lagoons with tranquil turquoise water and secluded beaches.

The Ganges: Arch Kumbh Mela
See India from a different angle, from the Himalayan foothills to the steaming banks of the Ganges and the largest delta system on the planet. Travel the world’s biggest railway system, drive on hectic city streets and see the temples strewn along the river as you meander by. All tastes are catered for here, from walking the foothills of Rishikesh, visiting Vishnu's stone footprint, searching for wildlife in Sundarbans Tiger Reserve or simply enjoying the vibrancy of this spectacular country.

Festivals & Villages of Ladakh
Snowy Himalayan peaks stand with clarity amidst crisp mountain air, whilst rivers crack and creak as they freeze to a standstill. This is Ladakh in winter time - a truly unique and magical experience. The hardy people of Tibetan stock practice ancient traditions to survive, whilst the wildlife descends into valleys in search of food. Monasteries dot almost every hilltop and become the centre of the social and religious calendar at this time. The festivals witnessed on this trip bring hundreds of people together to see the monks perform ritual masked-dances, dressed in brightly patterned brocade robes.

Northeastern Explorer
Share the pioneering spirit of the early settlers as you follow Native American trade routes and discover the New World for yourself. Learn about America's history in Philadelphia and Washington DC, visit an Amish community, and then head to the stunning Finger Lakes region with an included wine tasting evening. Soak up the French heritage of Quebec and the proud history of Boston, enjoy the rugged White Mountains National Forest and ‘Maid of the Mist’ cruise at Niagara Falls. Featuring cosmopolitan cities, small country towns and picturesque landscapes, colonial New England and French Canada offer the perfect blend of culture and experiences.

Cuba Mixed Activity
Pack your bags for an adventure of a lifetime and discover the natural beauty of a Caribbean island steeped in romance and intrigue. This new active adventure features a combination of Cuba's 'must see' sights amid a fun-packed itinerary of outdoor activities. We'll soak up the history and musical heritage of Havana and Trinidad, cycle in Vinales Valley, swim at the Bay of Pigs, hike in Topes de Collantes, and receive a warm welcome from the Cubans by staying in Casas Particulares and eating in privately-run Paladares. Variety is the name of the game - a perfect way to see the real Cuba!

West Indies Explored   
See a different side to the Caribbean; the forests, waterfalls and lakes of Dominica, the jungles and volcanoes of St. Lucia, plus an optional visit to Montserrat. Plus whale watching, optional walks of varying difficulty and snorkelling.

Discover Nicaragua ,Costa Rica & Panama
Nicaragua’s enchanting landscape is vast and relatively untouched by tourism; from the colonial city of Granada to the rising twin peaks of Ometepe Island, it’s a country waiting to welcome the world. Costa Rica's tropical climate supports a range of ecosystems including dense jungle, cloud forest, coastline and a handful of active volcanoes. The result is a paradise bursting with wildlife and tropical verdant scenery. From the Bocas del Toro Islands, a stunning archipelago with a lively Caribbean culture, to the Panama Canal, one of the world’s most impressive feats of engineering, and the vibrant capital Panama City, our last stop is Panama, under-visited but a jewel of the region.

Peru & Bolivia Explorer
The combination of culture, history and scenery of grandeur found in Peru and Bolivia makes for an incredible journey from Lima to La Paz, the worlds highest administrative capital city. The Inca Empire lays claim to the magnificent lost city of Machu Picchu and the wonderful fortresses of the Sacred Valley. Across the altiplano we take a boat trip on Lake Titicaca to our village homestay on one of its islands. Ending on a high, literally, we visit La Paz and embark upon a three day adventure to see Uyuni's salt pans, vivid lakes, geysers and cacti islands.




New Exodus Cycling trips for 2016

Exodus Travels launches some great new cycling trips.  Here is the line-up of new cycling trips by Exodus Travels in 2016.  Also new for 2016 is that all bike rentals will now be included in the tour price.

Cycle the Canal du Midi   
Cycle the Canal du Midi and discover the stunning vineyards, chateaux and waterways around one of the most picturesque parts of France. Our route passes through quintessential French villages such as Laure-Minervois and Homps where you will feel the 'douceur de vivre' as you soak up the sun and sample local wine from Les Corbieres region. From bridge to bridge, from lock to lock, this trip offers a wonderfully relaxed cycling experience as you wind your way along the Canal du Midi towards the enticing Mediterranean Sea.

Dolomites Centre-Based Cycling   
Savour the dramatic mountain scenery of the Dolomites, while avoiding the need to ride up any long climbs. We explore the beautiful valleys of the Alta Pusteria on two wheels, visiting Brunico, Lake Toblach, Cortina d’Ampezzo and crossing into the Austrian Tyrol to explore mediaeval Lienz. The area is criss-crossed by a network of quiet lanes and purpose-built cycle paths, perfect for enjoying at a steady pace. Adding to the relaxation is the fantastic four-star Hotel Adler in the charming town of Villabassa. The centre-based itinerary offers the opportunity to unpack, settle in and unwind in the hotel spa and award-winning restaurant

Tuscany: Florence to Lucca Ride   
Some of the best road cycling in Tuscany can be found in the north of the region; starting our tour in the rolling hills around Lucca, during the week we get off the beaten track and head towards the mountainous terrain of the Garfagnana region before stretching our legs with a walk on Liguria’s beautiful Cinque Terre coastline. On this trip we discover the iconic city of Pisa, ride through quiet mediaeval villages and the glorious landscape that connects them and savour a huge range of delicious food and wine: what better way to explore the ‘Bel Paese’ (Beautiful Country)?

Cycling in Bosnia & Montenegro   
The rich natural and cultural diversity of the Balkans provides the kind of variety you rarely find on European rides. This fascinating route provides the opportunity to visit three very different countries from the former Yugoslavia as we head from Bosnia over the Dinaric Alps into Montenegro and finally to Dubrovnik on the Adriatic Coast. The largely uncrowded roads allow for glorious views, a few challenges and the opportunity to visit a few cultural highlights along the way including the historic city of Mostar. The trip concludes in the magnificent city of Dubrovnik. A trip here will live long in the memory.

Cycle Macedonia & Northern Albania
The border lands of Northern Albania and Western Macedonia are truly one of the last hidden gems of Europe. Sweeping gorges are carved by crystal blue waters that flow into tranquil lakes, whilst rocky peaks and plateaux rise high above the lush green landscape. Ancient villages, rarely visited by tourists nestle themselves into the valleys, some of which retain a way of life that has been unchanged for centuries. Our carefully chosen route heads through some of the best scenery these fascinating countries have to offer, complimented with some really exciting cycling that equally challenges and rewards.

Cycle Romania   
Ride through an undiscovered corner of Europe plus visit 'Dracula's castle'!

Cycle Madagascar
Hugely diverse scenery plus the opportunity to mix with many ethnic groups - a true melting pot of culture!

Cycling the Lake District of Chile & Argentia   
Discover a beautiful and fertile land at the northern gateway to Patagonia - a magical landscape filled with active volcanoes, turquoise rivers, gigantic lakes and ancient native forests. See Andean condors swooping down from the foothills of the cordillera as we cycle on some of the most scenic paved routes that South America has to offer. We'll gain a cultural insight into both Chile and Argentina, including the European influences and indigenous customs that have shaped the region. Cross the Andes twice in spectacular fashion on two wheels as part of an incredible 'once in a lifetime' journey!

Classic Climbs of the Alps
A centre-based drop bars trip with the opportunity to tick off the most famous climbs of the Tour de France.

Classic Climbs of the Dolomites   
The Alta Badia region of the Italian Dolomites is quite simply a mecca for road cycling. Our week is based in the pretty town of Badia, with the famous climbs of the Giro d’Italia and the amateur Maratona dles Dolomites event right on the doorstep. The rides are certainly challenging, but the roads are great and the scenery is truly spectacular, with jagged limestone peaks revealing themselves around the numerous hairpin bends. A real highlight is the ‘Sella Ronda Bike Day’, a unique opportunity to ride this beautiful circuit on closed roads alongside thousands of other riders.

Cycling the Cols of Morocco   
Morocco’s Atlas Mountains are an undiscovered labyrinth of picturesque switchback roads. Using our knowledge of this magical country we have crafted the perfect drop bar cycling trip which winds its way from the bustle of Marrakech, through lush green valleys, over isolated high mountain passes and down long flowing descents all the way to the ocean. If you are after an alternative cycling challenge, then forget about the Alps and Pyrenees and join us in the Atlas Mountains!

Cycle Kilimanjaro
At 5895m Kilimanjaro is famous for being the highest point in Africa, but there is so much more to this mountain than just reaching the summit. This ride completes a full circumnavigation of the world’s largest free-standing mountain on a route that traverses one of the most interesting landscapes in the world. Cycle across wildlife migration corridors and through lush forests inhabited by stunning animals including leopard, buffalo and the illusive elephant. Experience native Maasai villages and isolated Chagga communities and ride across impressive open plains and through coffee plantations, all with the snow-capped peak of Kili within your sight.

Cycling in Portugal: Mountains to the Sea (self-guided)
In the far north of Portugal, on the border with Spain, lies the Minho region: a wild, rugged area of historical and cultural significance. Starting from the Geres National Park, you cycle downhill through small villages and extensive vineyards, following the River Minho towards the Atlantic Ocean. The scenery is a stunning combination of high mountains, rolling river scenes, historic towns and dramatic coastal landscape. You will stay in authentic accommodation offering friendly Portuguese hospitality and delicious regional cuisine. There is plenty of opportunity to relax and enjoy the golden stretches of beach you cycle past, maybe accompanied by a glass of the local Vinho Verde (white wine) for which the region is well known. The ride finishes in Porto, named best European City Destination in both 2013 and 2014.

Mallorca Coast to Coast Ride (self guided)
Mallorca has long been an island synonymous with sun, sea and sand, but many forget the treasures hidden away in the lesser known parts of the island. This relaxed itinerary features relatively easy cycling taking in the highlights of both the quiet coastal areas and the foothills of the beautiful inland Tramuntana mountain range. The hotels we use are small and family run, and the homemade cooking and local Mallorquin wines are a delightful welcome after a day’s cycling!

Bolzano, Verona & Venice Ride (self-guided)
Few landscapes in Europe match the unique beauty of the jagged limestone Dolomites. The self-guided cycling route starts with incredible views of Trentino's dramatic mountains, cycling on relatively easy roads and tracks along the Adige River. On reaching the northern shore of Lake Garda, enjoy the breath taking views of one of the most famous Italian Lakes. A four hour ferry cruise on the lake gives you the opportunity to take in these wonderful vistas before continuing the ride through the beautiful cities of Verona, Padova and finally exploring the canals and waterways of Venice.

Cycling in Tuscany: Pisa to Florence (self-guided)
Cycle from the iconic leaning tower of Pisa to the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, passing through beautiful Tuscan landscape that inspired artists and composors such as Leonardo da Vinci and Puccini. The gentle cycling is mainly along riverside paths and quiet roads, and there are the opportunities to lengthen the rides, or take the train at some stages to spend extra time at your destinations. Enjoy a free day in the romantic city of Florence and take some time to visit the sights in one of the world's most stunning cities!

Self-Guided Cycling in Slovenia (self-guided)
Set amongst extraordinary alpine surroundings, the romantic town of Bled and its iconic island make one of the most picture-perfect settings in Europe, if not the whole world. You will spend a week in a lovely hotel close to the shore of the beautiful glacial lake, allowing you to unpack and properly appreciate the natural beauty of the area. The itinerary offers six days of different optional cycling routes that you can discover at your leisure; spend a day cycling to Ljubljana and enjoy the cosmopolitan cafĂ© scene in the pretty capital city.Take some time to appreciate the magnificent surroundings and indulge in the local delicacies, such as coffee and Kremsnita (cream cake); the symbol of Bled’s cuisine.