Internationale groepsreis Walking in Sardinia

WALKING IN SARDINIA

This was an excellent holiday with some interesting terrain and a few historic site as well as a couple of relaxed days without any long walks and time to ourselves.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The last walk for me was quite an achievement as it was 15 km long and had some really rough bouldery streambed type terrain. The final destination at Cala Longa with a lovely long relaxed swin and return by boat to Cala Gonone ended an excellent week.

What did you think of your group leader?

Ruedy was an truely excellent leader. Never trying to hurry those of us who were older and slower than most and allowing the 'gazelles' amongs us to proceed with out being held up. Also when one of our number had a cut knee he had all the skills to treat it and to accompany her for the rest of the distance which, as there was no road access to the path, says alot for his skills. His instructions were very clear and precise. Excellent!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

My advice to other potential travellers is to be sure to have good boots and not just treking shoes. The heat was a bit of a problem on day one  28°C and we walked 16km and up 600m on a tarmac road.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would have classified the whole trip as Moderate and not as Easdy/moderate. Longest walk about 16km and we did not do the last bit of the Tiscali climb so can't tell about the difficulty of that.

Walking in Sardinia

Dorgali is a lovely small Italian town, very friendly, as is the family-run Hotel S'Adde. Great walking country, with mountains, excellent views, and ancient sites of the Nuraghi people.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Funnily enough, for me it was the view when we climbed to the top of the mountain above Dorgali, with clear views to the sea, and a long way inland too. Tiscali was a special site in its own way, but the first climb was the most rewarding.

What did you think of your group leader?

Eric Woolley is a seasoned veteran of the outdoors, and the group was very safe in his hands. The first day's walking, he pushed us a bit, in order to get the measure of us, all the better to time the rest of the week's walks, which were timed almost perfectly. One slight criticism; Eric's Italian seemed somewhat scanty, but this didn't affect the trip at all, since one of our group was of Italian extraction, and was thus able to translate when having more complex conversations, and the rest of the time, the group had enough Italian to get by. Most of the hotel staff spoke English.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared to sample some excellent wines; the hotel "house red" was quite acceptable, and the local Cantonau Classico and Reserve were delicious. Not quite so sure about the local myrtle-based aperitif, "Mirto", though! Being a vegetarian on southern european trips can be difficult at times, and I found myself being offered fish at least twice - luckily, I'm flexible, but others might not be so.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Overall, a decent week's rock-hopping, clambering, and walking, all in a pleasant climate, staying in a friendly and very pretty town.

Sardinia - another part of Italy

Varied walking with plenty of opportunities for personal choice in an incredibly beautiful part of Sardinia. The alluring combination of mountains, white beaches and turquoise seas was incredible. The walks provided challenges in length and technical skills with some great fun scrambling along the routes.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The cave at Spinigoli was stunning and in its own way inspiring bot The Gorropu Canyon for shear, overwhelming impact was stupendous

What did you think of your group leader?

Eric Woolley was the best! He knew how to guide and be involved as a member of the group. I can best describe it as like being away with friends - Eric created this effect.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go for it - there is nothing not to enjoy!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

So happy were we that we would consider going back to the area for more walks end exploration. The Sardinian people are so welcoming and friendly!

Walking in Sardinia - May 2016

This trip has the right mix of walking and free time. Two days walking, a sightseeing day and a free day and then two more days walking. As we arrived early on the Saturday and departed in the afternoon the following Saturday it felt like a longer holiday than a week. I loved the countryside, olive trees, farmland, mountains, incredibly beautiful beaches and crystal clear water, fascinating caves, lovely people, very kind and hospitable people. The family who ran the hotel were very welcoming and obliging and made our stay very special. The food was excellent and we were very well catered for.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I really enjoyed the walk to the Gorruppu Gorge and the walk up to Tiscali. Lovely shady paths through trees and great views. Also enjoyed the clambering over rocks. I really enjoyed the visit to the Grotta del Bue Marino. We went by boat on our free day and the cave is amazing! On the same day enjoyed a fish lunch and Vermentino (white) wine in the restaurant at Cala Gonone, overlooking the beautiful bay.

What did you think of your group leader?

Alexis was cool! A fun personality and very polite and helpful. Kept everyone well motivated and was always attentive to individual's needs and kept the group together. He helped organise other activities for the free day and was always around if needed.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Sardinia is a lovely island. May was ideal for walking, not too hot and lovely weather. Bear in mind that the walking is on quite stony paths so have robust footwear with you and socks that wick.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I'd go back to Sardinia, it's very relaxed and it's just what I needed.

WALKING IN SARDINIA

A really lovely holiday - a fabulous, friendly family hotel, great food, fantastic scenery and some very good walking. I would recommend this holiday to anyone who likes good coastal walks.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The trip to Tiscali was wonderful. It was quite a challenging ascent to the top but it was worth it. And the views on the way down were spectacular.

What did you think of your group leader?

Eric was great. He really looked after us and was very knowledgeable about the area. He was also good fun to spend time with. He has lots of anecdotes and stories to tell of an evening to keep you entertained!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take some good walking boots and drink lots of water - otherwise, just enjoy it - it's a wonderful holiday.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This is my fourth Exodus holiday. All four were superb and I only have positive things to say about them. I think Exodus is a great company and I'm looking forward to my next trip - thank you!

WALKING IN SARDINIA

The Sardinia trip certainly makes walking more interesting, due to quite a bit of clambering over large stones and boulders.  I thought that this made it much more fun than the usual tramping whilst admiring a view - and there was also some archaeology, to do with the pre-Roman Nuragic people. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Sorry to those that didn't, but I particularly enjoyed the optional riding, which was over different terrain from the walking.  I did this on the last morning, when I was given a decent-sized horse, Barony, who was smoothe and responsive.  You don't need to book several hours, as indicated on the trip notes, and the E20 (I added a E5 tip, which was promptly offered back to me) I spent on one hour was well worth it - I should have done two.  I'd advise going early, to save the horses from the heat.

What did you think of your group leader?

Professional and enthusiastic, with the patience that's occasionally required.  and a smile I'll remember.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

You might like to pack ear-plugs, as there was noise on the Saturday night outside the hotel, and the walls let through some sound from adjacent rooms.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The hotel is conveniently close to the centre of this small town.  Its breakfasts could be improved - perhaps by providing cerials and an occasional change of the daily bread rolls.   I found the locals to be particularly friendly and helpful.  An excellent holiday, which could have been longer.

WALKING IN SARDINIA

I found the terrain more difficult than I was expecting, although managed. Thought should be graded moderate. Group great company, leader Rudi fantastic.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Finishing the walks in one piece. Views from the top of tuila. Great beaches, esp cala luna at the end of a tough walk.

What did you think of your group leader?

Rudi was exceptional, planned everything down to the last detail. He made the experience very enjoyable

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Make sure you are aware of the terrain and potential difficulty of the walks.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Overall the holiday was enjoyable, but was dissapointed with the hotel as very limited facilities. Very noisy at night. Staff were great food excelent. Nowhere to sit and read in sun.

WALKING IN SARDINIA

For anyone with coeliac disease, this trip is perfection. You get wonderful food, and lots of it. I managed to put on weight in spite of the energy expenditure, which was considerable!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

It was the scrambling bits - both the boulders at the end of the Gorropu Gorge, and having Rudy encouragibng me to climb right up to Tiscali. I never thought I would be able to do such things. I can't thank him enough for saying go ahead

What did you think of your group leader?

see above. Rudy is a gem, and a gent, what else can I say

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Anyone my age (63) have a go. I walk a dog 3 hours every day for exercise, I have a degenerative nerve condition which makes me weaker than I would like to be but the walks were great and certainly stretched every joint, plus overcoming the fear of heights - go for it. I wish I was still there

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you want a fascinating view into prehistoric Sardinia, plus some amazing walks, plus some adventure, plus some swimming, plus the best food you will ever eat, go for this holiday

WALKING IN SARDINIA

Amazing landscapes, mountains and beaches. The hotel was comfortable and the food was great.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The walk and scamble to Tiscali was truely memorable for its challenging but stunning route.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader Rudy was the most organised and calm person I have met! He led the group from the back so ensuring whatever the abilities of the group members all had an enjoyable trip. He was an excellent guide who made the trip very memorable.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Bring walking boots and be prepared to be fed a lot by the hotel!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Highly recommend this trip

Walking in Sardinia

A very full week with excellent walking....possibly too much food!!!!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching Tiscali

What did you think of your group leader?

Knowledgeable and personable

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

WALKING IN SARDINIA

A chance to do some lovely walking and meet some like minded people. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Loved the last 3 walks in particular, each offering a chance to experience different aspects of the area.

What did you think of your group leader?

The leader did a fantastic job making sure that all group members had a good time/had their needs considered.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Dorgali is only a small town so be prepared to make plans to either explore further afield or take books etc. entertain yourself on the rest day.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

WALKING IN SARDINIA

Fantastic walks, all of them interesting, excellent guide and lovely food

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The final walk along the coast to Cala Luna followed by an afternoon on the beach and boat trip back was the highlight for me

What did you think of your group leader?

Rudy was an excellent group leader, very organized and helpful and great at keeping an eye on all members of the party

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Bring boots and shoes, the walking is quite varied and you don't need boots everyday

Is there anything else you would like to add?

It's a great holiday - book it

WALKING IN SARDINIA

An excellent trip with variety, it ticked all my boxes with great mountain scenery and walking, archeology, lovely beaches and at that time of year (Spring) a mass of coloured flowers everywhere.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I think my favouite was the Gorropu Gorge, but also loved the Tiscali walk, visiting the Blue Marino Grotto on my free day and the mass of Spring flowers and in particular the spectacular orchids.

What did you think of your group leader?

Eric was a good leader, but he did not have a great Knowledge of Italian which I think would have been useful on occassions. He was shadowed by Christine, who will do some of the future trips and she speaks Italian fluently.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

I did not have a problem with any of the walking and bit of scrambling on the Tiscali and Cala Luna walks, but some in the group were not so happy and there was a discussion at the end of the holiday whether it was slightly undergraded and whether some parts of the itinerary should be modified. To my mind it would miss out some of the best bits, so I think the holiday should stay the same and perhaps modify the grade slightly if felt necessary.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I have been on the Evia and Amalfi holidays which are the same grade, but slightly easier, as I like a sea and mountainous holiday in the Spring when it is green and floral, and Sardinia was my favourite.  As a Coeliac I would recommend this holiday to anyone requiring a gluten free diet as the Hotel S'Adde went out of their way to provide for the diet.

WALKING IN SARDINIA

Sardinia has great beaches and mountains.Wonderful people and food.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Swimming in the sea after a gruelling walk.A beautiful blue green sea,transparent water and gentle warm sea breezes.

What did you think of your group leader?

Eric was very kind and tried hard to meet the individual needs of all the group.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The rock is hard ,sharp limestone .Even the experienced hikers found the walks demanding.Would suggest Exodus reconsider reclassification to Moderate.Make sure walking boots are tried and tested with some heavy duty plasters. The walks are mainly linear and flora and range of wild life limited.The hotel was excellent -providing wonderful food and a relaxed family atmosphere. If you are interested in the history of the island then read up before you go as the local guides can be difficult to understand and some have a limited knowledge of the archaeology . The locals are friendly and helpful.They will go out of their way to make sure you enjoy all aspects of Sardinian life.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The success of this trip depends on the dynamics of the group.If they are supportive ,inclusive and have a great sense of humour then you will have a great time.

WALKING IN SARDINIA

Great walking, stunning views, amazing blue sea ... and way too much food!!!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The scrambles up and along quite rocky paths to get to some stunning views on the walk to Tiscali.  The Gorrupu Gorge was amazing too.  Really enjoyed the hike along the coast on the last day - more great walking and fully justified the HUGE gelato I treated myself to at the end

What did you think of your group leader?

We were a wide range of walking abilities in the group - Eric had a difficult job balancing the hares vs the tortoises, but managed to keep us together ... at least for the scenery and food stops though not always when walking on a clear path!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

We were really lucky with the weather, it was never less than 25C.  I was fine with walking trainers (Reeboks).  It was too warm for boots but they'd give better ankle support if needed.  Likewise take poles if you find them helpful, but I personally find it easier to negotiate rocky scrambles on all fours (where poles would get in the way) Walking sandals (Tevas and co) would be OK for the first day walk (all on roads), but no more than that. Main thing is to be prepared for some extended stiff scrambles (up rocky / bouldery paths) - the first part of the Tiscali walk and then the climb up to Tiscali are the worst - but generally the walking is pretty much on the flat.  I thought the first 2 days were more "A" grade because they were on paths / roads without much scrambling (unless you went up Gorrupu Gorge).  The last 2 walks were more "B" grade because of the more difficult terrain, but much more interesting because they were point to point rather than out and back along the same track. I was worried I'd struggle with an A/B grade walk because I'd done almost no walking the previous 2 months due to the dire weather back home and was fine.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Take clothes with loose waist bands.  There's no shortage of food on this trip, and the staff at the hotel were great with the dietary requirements of the group (veggie, gluten free...)!  I don't think any of us lost weight.

WALKING IN SARDINIA

Group had a wide range of walking ability so may make sense to have 2 tour options graded accordingly. That way clients get an idea how hard the tour potientally could be. Also might be an idea to quote approximate mileage/kilometres the walks are likely to take for the average walker as well as the estimated time which is presently given.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Gorrupo Gorge lived up to the hype.

What did you think of your group leader?

Eric Woolley was very good and helpful. If he didn't know an answer he made sure he found out and advised us asap. Not a grumble but we thought his timing was sometimes awry for the walks. An hour became an "Eric hour" - usually about 65 or 70 mins. Not a problem as the group found this amusing.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Walking poles could be more of a hindrance on the rocky slopes up to Tiscali. Many group members without poles found the going easier using both hands for leverage than those with poles.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Would have been nice if the hotel had a swimming pool.

WALKING IN SARDINIA

A lovely Island. Great scenery,food and wine. The walks to the Gorge and to Tiscali were very interesting and well worth the effort. I enjoyed to day sightseeing, we ended up on a beautiful almost deserted beach. The hotel was very comfortable, with excellent food, the only downside was the lack of any outside gardens to relax in after the days activities, though there was a terrace.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The high sides of the Gorropu Gorge were awesome. Grotta degli Ispinigoli was well worth the visit with its huge column and the Bue Marino Grotto too. The climb to Tiscali was tough in places but well worth the effort.

What did you think of your group leader?

Eric was excellent. Very helpful, patient and sociable.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you like the med with scenery, peace and quiet, good food and wine , then this could be the place for you. I would love to go back and see more of Sardinia as this trip concentrates on a very small area of the island.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

walking in Sardinia

this was our 10th holiday with Exodus and as usual everything well organised at the resort. Good hotel with good food. Well varied walks.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Meeting a great and varied group of people. Its the people that can sometimes reset your life.

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent leader however I consider that local leaders often add more to the holiday with their local knowledge of the area, culture and history.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We wre not happy with the late change of flight times considering we had to pay early to secure the flights.