Internationale groepsreis Walking the Amalfi Coast

Willeke

In één woord fantastisch. Alles was geregeld, alles klopte en nog veel meer dan dat. Leuke extra's die niet in het programma stonden en de wandelingen waren mooi en 'absolutely doable' zoals onze reisleidster zei. Het was echt van a tot z relaxen geblazen.

Dieke

Deze wandelreis Italië is geschikt voor mensen die over een goede conditie beschikken en houden van fantastische vergezichten over de Amalfikust en alle mooie plaatsen aldaar. Je moet wel over goede, sterke knieën beschikken in verband met het vele afdalen over de trappen. Het hotel Due Torri is een perfecte basis voor de wandelingen en allerlei uitstapjes in de omgeving zoals de Vesuvius en Pompeii. Het zwembadje en de hoteltuin zijn ook een fijne plek om te verblijven. Onderschat de zomerhitte niet tijdens deze wandelreis. Het is heel gemakkelijk om ook andere activiteiten te ondernemen i.p.v. de wandelingen. Ik heb een leuke week gehad vol met indrukken van het Italiaanse leven in de zomer aan de Amalfikust. Het was zeer prettig om een week met Engelstaligen op te trekken mits je deze taal ook goed beheerst. Deze reis lijkt mij het prettigst om te lopen tijdens de lente of herfst. Alle lof ook voor de reisleidster Christine met haar grote kennis en kwaliteiten.

Walking the Amalfi Coast in October

A leisurely and enjoyable break with a well balanced mix of walking, sightseeing and enjoying the views.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Inspiration is a little strong for this trip. There were many enjoyable moments, Herculaneum, Pompeii, Vesuvius and the wonderful views along the coast. The moment that will stay in the mind is the view from the café in Villa Cimbrone.

What did you think of your group leader?

Eric was very enthusiastic about this trip and was always eager to stop and point out views or matters of interest. He was helpful in organising activities and meals on our free day and seemed to enjoy the trip as much as we did.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Think carefully about what you take. For us, walking poles and boots (even 2 season) were a little OTT and we could have managed very well with approach shoes. Whilst walking kit and rucksack was fine whilst on the trail when we reached some of our destinations we did feel a little scruffy and out of place.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you are after a mix of leisurely walking, some beautiful views, the history of Pompeii and Vesuvius as well as good hospitality then this trip is well worthwhile.

Stepping up (and down) in Italy

If you like steps this is the one for you! A very enjoyable and relaxing trip to a place of stunning scenery and hugely welcoming people. The walks were varied and certainly showed off this part of Italy to full advantage with Tre Calli and the 'walk of the gods' giving particularly spectacular views. The village of Bomerano is on the plateau high above the sea, several walks end up at sea level and the only way down is via steps - thousands of them! Our group was a very mixed bunch, 6 nationalities and widely varying walking ability but they meshed together really well and their company added to the overall experience. The hotel was fine but don't be fooled by the photo of the pool! The cookery demonstrations by the hotel chefs were great fun. Meeting some of the local people - the owner of the 'Crazy Burger Bar' in Bomerano (it doesn't serve burgers but he will produce what ever you want) and his infectious and enthusiastic hospitality was something very different.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Undoubtedly walking the rim of Vesuvius on day of day of beautiful weather and long, long views was the highlight for me but there were many others that came close. It would be impossible not to be bowled over by the scenery of the Amalfi coast or the sheer size of Pompei.

What did you think of your group leader?

Martin was a really good leader; knowledgeable, enthusiastic, patient and with a fine sense of humour. He dealt with all the questions and queries and managed the group walks very effectively (not easy with such a wide range of abilities and experience to consider). He clearly enjoyed his work and made a significant contribution to our enjoyment of the week.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Read the trip notes carefully and think whether the level of walking is right for you - the distances are not great but there is a fair bit of up and even more down - a lot on steps. Some people struggled whilst others were raring to do more. A pair of walking poles is certainly a very good idea.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The weather at the end of May (with the exception of one day) was lovely and pretty much ideal for walking but my guess is that July and August in particular would be a fair bit more challenging.

WALKING THE AMALFI COAST

This is a superb holiday with just the right mix of walking and sight-seeing. The group leader was outstanding and the hotel staff superb.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Walking around the rim of Vesuvius. Visiting Herculaneum.

What did you think of your group leader?

Christine is the best group leader that I have ever had and an absolute asset to Exodus. She is a consummate professional. From the minute she met us at the airport until the minute we left she smiled. Christine has built up an enormous network of contacts within the local community which meant that the holiday ran without a hitch. At various moments she produced little treats for us, all paid for out of her own pocket. Christine's knowledge of the local area is second to none. This holiday would not have been the same without Christine's guidance and humour.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Prepare for steps! The neighbours can be quite lively.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A lovely holiday all round: lovely food, great hotel, fabulous scenery.

WALKING THE AMALFI COAST

Memorable for:the people, the scenery, the walks, the fun and laughter which contributed to creating an unforgettable experience.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Our visit to Herculaneum which provided an insight into the lives of the inhabitants and their environment.  The walk to the top of Vesuvius and around the crater rim where steam could be seen rising from the crater. The reaching of "the final flight of steps " on several occasions and the arrival at our destination where Christine would guide us toward a welcome café.

What did you think of your group leader?

Her warm greeting of our party at the airport set the tone for our week's stay. Her professionalism was manifest in her extensive knowledge of the Amalfi coast, the walks and of the local community; its characters and history. It was also evident that she is welcomed and respected by those who live and work in Bomerano. She was also adept at motivating the group when necessary through her catchphrases and snackettes. Thank you Christine for all your hard work.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared: footwear that is comfortable and supportive, walking poles ( just in case you find yourself gently toppling over!), if you do not like flights of steps try a different holiday.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The leisurely / moderate grading for this holiday was a little misleading as "leisurely" implies a gentle stroll or ramble which would not be a true reflection of the majority of these walks.

WALKING THE AMALFI COAST

I really enjoyed this holiday the scenery was amazing and the people were great. The hotel staff were very friendly

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The tour leader Christine made this a great fun holiday.  It would not have been the same without her enthusiasm and knowledge.

What did you think of your group leader?

Please see above

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The hotel was in a lovely village and everyone was very welcoming and friendly

WALKING THE AMALFI COAST

Good leader trying to cope with many levels of fitness - difficult as a couple of people really struggled up any incline, needing long rest periods, which became a little boring at times. Hotel was friendly & comfortable with good facilities & good food. Some lovely scenery & views. Bomerano is unfortunately lacking in charm & interest.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Views from Ravello (not on itinerary)

What did you think of your group leader?

Hard working & conscientious. Very personable & a good mixer

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for wet weather at any time. Take a poncho to protect you & your daypack

Is there anything else you would like to add?

WALKING THE AMALFI COAST

I was nervous, as this was my first Exodus holiday and I was on my own, but I felt totally relaxed from the moment I arrived. This was due to the excellent skills of our guide Christine. Moreover the trip was extremely well organised and the hotel was excellent. There were a good range of walks, which were all amazing.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I really enjoyed walking around the rim of Mt Vesuvius. Swimming in the sea at the end of a hot walk.

What did you think of your group leader?

Absolutely fantastic. Professional, informative, caring and she set the right pace.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

I would say the walks were more moderate but carried out at a leisurely pace so make sure you are reasonably fit and can walk down steps.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I really enjoyed this trip. I thoroughly recommend it. The food was amazing at the hotel and the fact that it has a pool was a real attraction for me. Everybody was friendly and welcoming. The walks thrilling because the scenery was so beautiful.

WALKING THE AMALFI COAST

Hotel clean and comfortable, plenty of hearty filling food. Excellent tour leader - Christine - searched out imaginative little treats for us. Bomerano a bit too far off the beaten track though amp; not much atmosphere in either hotel or village, so evenings rather dull.  Would go again for the walks, but probably not in November!  

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Visiting Herculaneum

What did you think of your group leader?

Very good. Brilliantly organised and well-informed, while appearing very low-key and relaxed. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

November may not be the best month to go.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

WALKING THE AMALFI COAST

Memorable for:the people, the scenery, the walks, the fun and laughter which contributed to creating an unforgettable experience.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Our visit to Herculaneum which provided an insight into the lives of the inhabitants and their environment.  The walk to the top of Vesuvius and around the crater rim where steam could be seen rising from the crater. The reaching of the final flight of steps on several occasions and the arrival at our destination where Christine would guide us toward a welcome café.

What did you think of your group leader?

Her warm greeting of our party at the airport set the tone for our week's stay. Her professionalism was manifest in her extensive knowledge of the Amalfi coast, the walks and of the local community; its characters and history. It was also evident that she is welcomed and respected by those who live and work in Bomerano. She was also adept at motivating the group when necessary through her catchphrases and snackettes. Thank you Christine for all your hard work.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared: footwear that is comfortable and supportive, walking poles ( just in case you find yourself gently toppling over!), if you do not like flights of steps try a different holiday.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The leisurely / moderate grading for this holiday was a little misleading as leisurely implies a gentle stroll or ramble which would not be a true reflection of the majority of these walks.

WALKING THE AMALFI COAST

This holiday was just perfect in every way. Our guide Christine was extremely knowledgeable, helpful and very friendly.  We were also very lucky to have a fantastic group of people sharing the experiences with us. The hotel staff were great and proivided us with a culinary feast every night!!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were so many amazing experiences but I would say that for me the valley of the fairies was my favourite walk, the secret garden was just magical. However I will always remember walking around the crater of Vesuvius and hearing our shouts of ciao echo around us, it was fantastic. Back in the hotel I loved the pizza demonstration, which was made even better by eating the pizzas afterwards, I have never tasted pizza like it!

What did you think of your group leader?

Christine was our group leader and she was great, I don't beleive that the holiday would have been so enjoyable if it wasn't for Christine. On all of the walks the knowledge that Christine shared with us just made all the difference to our understanding of the area and local customs. It was also nice to see that she had such a strong relationship with not only the hotel staff but everyone that we encountered in the village. Christine was very good at setting a walking pace that everyone could manage and this made the walks very do-able and kept the group together.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The advice I would give is that if you enjoy walking, taking in breathtaking scenery, emersing yourself into the Italian culture and eating amazing food then this is definitely the trip for you!!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This was our second Exodus holiday and both were totally amazing, I can't wait to plan my next trip. The guides on the Exodus trips are to me what makes Exodus stand out and are the reason I will continue to choose Exodus.

THE AMALFI COAST

Wonderful week away in the Amalfi, the walking was varied and interesting with fantastic views. The group leader Christine was passionate about the area and really bought the trip to life. The hotel were great and they couldn't do enough for us, really making the effort to make the trip special and make us feel at home.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

For me i loved the day in Pompeii which was so interesting, the guide was the best investment of the holiday and really bought it to life showing us all the key things and explaining things that you wouldn't even think to ask. Also the walk of the gods on the last day was wonderful with amazing views.

What did you think of your group leader?

Christine was friendly, professional and passionate about her job and the area which really made the holiday. She made the whole holiday very easy and relaxing and was a lot of fun.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The food at the hotel is fantastic so don't worry about going hungry. On the day off we went to Herculaneum on the hotel arranged trip which was wonderful, we had the same guide as for Pompeii who was excellent and this was a thoroughly interesting trip, would definately recommend.

Amalfi Coast Walking

The 2 Torri Hotel in Bomerano is an excellent choice as a base for this walking holiday. It is located in a friendly village surrounded by beautiful mountains, high above the coast. The walks are spectacular. There is also time for sight seeing at Pompeii, and on the free day. We were fortunate to also include a visit to Herculaneum on the return journey to the airport.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The 'Walk of the Gods' is the most inspirational coast walk that I have done anywhere in the world. Cycling in the Agerola area on a bike borrowed from the hotel was memorable. Drinks on the terrace of a 5 star hotel at Ravello watching an afternoon thunderstorm was a fitting end to the final walk. Herculaneum brings home the human devastation of the Vesuvius eruption.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader Suzie was excellent. She worked very hard to make this a special holiday for everyone, and in the evenings socialised with the whole group. Her knowledge of the area is vast, and we frequently benefited from her contacts with local people. She led the walks with consideration for each person's ability and safety.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

This is a walking holiday not to be missed. The balance of walking, sightseeing and leisure is just right. Be prepared for lots of steps both up and down and drink plenty of water on the walks as it can get very hot. A 'Camelbag' type of waterbottle proved very useful.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Superb trip.

WALKING THE AMALFI COAST

Good leader trying to cope with many levels of fitness - difficult as a couple of people really struggled up any incline, needing long rest periods, which became a little boring at times. Hotel was friendly amp; comfortable with good facilities amp; good food. Some lovely scenery amp; views. Bomerano is unfortunately lacking in charm amp; interest.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Views from Ravello (not on itinerary)

What did you think of your group leader?

Hard working amp; conscientious. Very personable amp; a good mixer

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for wet weather at any time. Take a poncho to protect you amp; your daypack

Is there anything else you would like to add?

WALKING THE AMALFI COAST

My husband and I did this trip August 2013. Jaw dropping scenery, amazing hospitality at our Bomerano Hotel and awesome fellow walkers.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

So many inspirational moments...Herculaneum and then standing on the rim of Mt Vesuvius are probably the stand outs.

What did you think of your group leader?

What absolutely made the trip was having Christine as our tour leader. Such an amazing knowledge of the area, very professional at all times but with that cheeky smile and laugh on show constantly. Such a vivid imagination and lots of funny little stories to keep us amused. Little treats from her Mary Poppins bag were totally unexpected but a lovely personal touch from her. Without doubt Christine is the best tour leader we have ever had.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for steps, steps and more steps....but it is sooooo worth it.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

WALKING THE AMALFI COAST

An excellent trip overall with a mixture of sightseeing and walking. A lovely hotel where everyone was friendly and very helpful.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Included in the programme is the trip to Pompeii and on our free day a group of us took up the offer of a trip to Herculaneum. This much smaller coastal town was covered by a mudslide when Vesuvius erupted in 79AD and was  preserved by the mud. We were able to compare the 2 sites. We had the same excellent guide Ettori at both sites and Herculaneum was much less crowded than Pompeii.

What did you think of your group leader?

Christine our group leader  was excellent. So enthusiastic and cheery. We were given free time after the walks, in her words to run and skip and play and have fun.Paddling in the sea to cool the feet after the walks was wonderful!  She has a good rapport with the hotel owners and nothing was too much trouble.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

We are based on the plain above Amalfi and Positano so although there is a lot of descent on the walks it's not all downhill and when it is it tends to be on limestone steps which can be quite tough going. The walks however are not long in distance and our pace was set by the slowest member. We had lots of time to take pictures  and there were frequent cake/refreshment stops.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Ms.

This was my first time traveling for pleasure completely alone, and I didn't really know what to expect. I think I thought it would mostly be a nice break in between jobs, perhaps some time alone for self-reflection and contemplation in a stunningly beautiful place. It was all that but actually so much more for me. As a self-described "city slicker," I was pretty much a novice at this hiking thing, and the week was full of experiences that kept pushing me, and challenging me to grow. Each day felt special and offered something different. Pictures cannot do justice to what you need to see in person. In these beautiful coastal towns, when the sun melts into the horizon, and the dusky mountains hug the sky, you don't know where one ends and one begins. I went in November, which is the off season, and was anxious about how the rain/weather might impact the tour. But even on the day(s) that it rained, that only added to the atmosphere and sense of adventure. It was special seeing the Amalfi Coast at a time when there were no tourists.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were so many highlights, but for me, the most dramatic, climactic one was climbing Mount Vesuvius, a volcano that is still considered active. Climbing inside the rim of the crater, you can see Pompeii from a dizzying height and even feel the steam that wisps from the cracks in the rock. It was like drinking from a heady elixir that produced fear, exhilaration and a sense of accomplishment, all at once. My heart was still in my throat as I descended back down the volcano, but I could not have felt more alive. A once in a lifetime moment.

What did you think of your group leader?

Paul McDermott was our leader and he is phenomenal. Although he is inherently modest, you could tell that his 35 or so years of experience in the army had trained him to be the type of leader who naturally elicits trust and confidence from his team. As I was a "city slicker" who had never been on a hiking tour like this, I was anxious about how I would do, but I felt safe in Paul's hands - he was so clearly a master of the terrain. It was also evident that Paul must have diligently been doing work behind the scenes to make our tour run smoothly and seamlessly, but he did it with such quiet aplomb and grace that he never made it seem like work; and he added thoughtful touches to help make the tour special, like carrying bottles of wine in his backpack while hiking for several hours, without telling us, just so that we could lazily savor a drink in the sunny piazza during our lunch break on the last day of the tour. It was nice hearing about the Amalfi Coast's history and culture from Paul's perspective, as he is a worldly traveler who has a natural affinity for soaking up the local culture. Most importantly though, Paul was always engaged with the group, and was deeply, sometimes it even seemed telepathically, attuned to the needs of the group as a whole as well as the unique personalities of each individual. By the end of tour, I thought of him not only as our guide but our friend.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be aware that if you go during off-peak season, like in November, as I did, there will be certain things that will be closed and activities that might not be available. For example, I believe during the summer months, you are able to take a boat ride, which is supposed to be lovely. Also, when we ended up in some of the resort towns, some of the sights / shops were closed. Personally, however, this was not an issue for me at - I appreciated that we were able to see the Amalfi Coast in a way that not everybody gets to see, and it felt more intimate and authentic. You should also come prepared for the weather at the time you go. I packed varying layers of fleeces and rain-proof gear, which came in handy. At certain points of the hike, I wore short-sleeved T-shirts and sweated through my gear. When we went to Pompeii, it was freezing in the morning, and that was the one day that I had left my extra fleece in the hotel. Best to pack everything in your backpack just in case.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Book this trip!! It is worth every minute and every penny.

THE AMALFI COAST

The weather was wonderful (especially considering it was the first week of November),and the scenery spectacular. The walks were well described in the trip notes and were at the level we were expecting (leisurely/moderate). Our guide, Christine, was knowledgable and made sure the week ran very smoothly. The hotel was a very good standard and food was plentiful. All in all a wonderful week and would definately recommend this trip.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I really enjoyed the trips to Pomeii and Herculanium and found these places very moving. I would definately recommend having a guide on these sites so that you can look and listen rather than having to jump aroung a guide book and map (which they had run out of). The weather was excellent for walking, needing a fleece only when starting out. Seeing the rugged coastline was spectacular.

What did you think of your group leader?

Christine was very efficient, knowledgable and helpful, just as we have come to expect of Exodus guides, thank you for making it such a wonderful time.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The thousand(s) of steps down to Amalfi and Positano do take it out on your knees, so poles are very useful.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Having stayed at farm houses previously there was always a pot of tea/coffee when we arrived back from the walks and I missed this at the hotel, but that is the only  extremely minor "disappointment" I have with the whole trip. We stayed an extra night in Naples, and can't say I was that impressed, wouldn't recommend it and certainly will be in no rush what so ever to go back there again.

THE AMALFI COAST

This was an enjoyable week, great weather especially for the beginning of November, great food - although sometimes a little too much, good hotel, fab company, good guide and a good mix of walking and site seeing.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Visiting Herculaneum and Pompeii realising how little civilisation has changed in the last 2000 years.

What did you think of your group leader?

Christine was a great group leader and was very considerate to all members of the group. She gave a thorough briefing every evening letting us know exactly what was to come the following day.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The grading of the walking is appropriate and generally speaking there is alot more down than up, just beware there are an awful lot of steps on the day 3 walk into Amalfi and this does take it out of your knees somewhat. Plus be prepared for the bun fight to get on the local bus back from Amalfi, this for me was the low point of the trip.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I enjoyed the week overall although I was alittle disappointed in this part of Italy, I think this was due to the fact alot of people had said how beautiful the Amalfi coast is and that my expectations were very high. On the other hand the Valle del Ferriero National Park walk and the 'Walk of the Gods' were both lovely walks and Positano although very quiet on the day we were there was beautiful. On our free day we opted to do the trip that included a visit to Herculaneum and Ravello which I thoroughly enjoyed, managing to fit in visiting both Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufalo in Ravello - we did skip lunch though to fit in both Villas without feeling like we were running between the two.