Escorted Tour Questions

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Why should I choose an active gourmet adventure?

We will reduce your chances of having a disappointing travel experience 
and get you off the beaten track. You will enjoy a memorable, unique
holiday that is also excellent value. We remove the hassles and pack
your trip full of unforgettable experiences designed to match your
interests. All our escorted tours involve activity: cycling, cooking classes,
walking, golf, canoeing even fishing. We also focus on savouring
everything a region has to offer, especially its food and wine. We meander off-road, along riverside paths, through forests and vineyards, pausing to smell the flowers, browse antiques in the village market, absorb music in the ancient church, whatever takes your fancy.

 

What happens to my luggage?

Your luggage is transferred in our 'mothership' van. This means you can pack whatever you want without the burden of hefty panniers or backpacks. And with the van never far away, you can offload your bargains from the local markets and stores.

 

Where do we stay overnight?

We handpick quality accommodation that reflects the character and history of each region. It could be a chateau, paradore, manor house or rural farmhouse even a barn or cave-hotel. We usually stay two-to-three nights, exploring the local area from our base. Without exception, our hosts are interesting, hospitable and provide a friendly welcome.

What do we do about meals?

The regions we visit are renowned for their fine produce, cuisine and wines. Most evenings we dine in carefully selected restaurants, chosen for their truly memorable food experiences. At lunch, enjoy wonderful picnic foods, often selected from the local markets, or eat al fresco at country cafés. The majority of meals are included in the tour price, but occasionally you will be free to follow your nose and choose your own.

 

How fit do I have to be?

You do not need to be a finely tuned athlete, but a reasonable level of fitness will help. Remember, we cater for walkers and cyclists and garden enthusiasts and total sloths.

 

If I choose the cycling option, do I have to ride far?

No, usually no more than 45km a day, unless you want to.

We have the travel van on hand for when you need a break or

even a full day off. We offer a choice of routes or you might

prefer the walking option from time to time. We take frequent

breaks to admire the view, visit interesting places and people,

and for food.

 

My partner wants to cycle but I don’t. Is that a problem?

Jump in the mothership or try our interesting walking options.

 

I am a keen cyclist and want to do more, can I?

Longer and more demanding routes are available as required.

 

I am travelling alone. Will I feel left out?

Certainly not! Our tour groups are made up of individuals, couples and friends.

We cater for people with a variety of interests and energy levels, providing

an exhilarating experience for everyone.

 

How much gear do I have to carry?

Very little. Camera/phone some cash, a light rainproof jacket and

your active gourmet water bottle.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Our tours are timed for the most settled weather periods but we cannot
guarantee sunshine every day. If it rains we usually keep going. If it pours,
we shelter in a little bar or café or indulge in some under-cover
sightseeing or shopping.

 

What is included in the price of the tour?

All accommodation, all breakfasts, most evening meals and lunches, guides, admission to some special events, cooking and wine tasting sessions, support vehicle, luggage transfer and active gourmet water bottle. You pay your own entry charges (you choose) some lunches and evening meals, gratuities (tips), items of a personal nature such as phone, fax, email and laundry.

 

Can I vary the length of the trip?

You can join our tour (usually 12 nights) for a shorter time or we can personalise an itinerary for your extended stay.

I am not really a 'group' sort of person...does that matter?

In that case, let us design an active gourmet self-led adventure just for
you, family or friends. Transport can be by car, on foot, by bike, by train,
on a canal boat or any combination you prefer.

 

Do you have information on tours other than those in the active
gourmet portfolio?

We have a database of active holidays from companies in all parts of the
world, and will be delighted to help you select a suitable package.

 

What other activities are available?

We can organise your winter skiing holiday, golfing excursions and cooking or language schools. Your travel can be arranged to coincide with, for example, a tennis grand slam event, or the opera season in Verona. Options are available in all countries for garden enthusiasts and art lovers. Just give us a call to discuss your needs.