This was an excellent week of walking. The paths are steep in some places but well defined and Jose guided us with care and attention on the challenging ascents and descents of the Sierra Aitana. The walks were well-paced by Jose but the days are long so you do need to be fit. We trekked through a number of landscapes illustrating the historic and current use of the area and Jose with his local knowledge enhanced our understanding of how this area has evolved over the centuries as well as the current challenges. The views from the walks were amazing – one way you could see the coast from Alicante to Benidorm and beyond and the other the folding valleys and mountains of the interior. The skies were blue and the days sunny and warm and we experienced very little wind even on the summits. We were based at the Hostel Rincon de Pepe where we had a wonderful week being looked after by Raquel. The food was amazing and hearty (three courses plus wine). The terrace was also great place to have breakfast every morning as the sun rose out of the Med, as well as a beer or two after the walk as the sun disappeared behind the mountains.
Walking Holidays in Croatia
Croatia Walking Holidays
Top 4 Islands to Visit on Croatia Walking Holidays
Hvar: Arguably the most well known of the Croatian islands, Hvar is a place of pure beauty. And although this sun-soaked island tends to attract the rich and famous, it also has hidden depths that often go undiscovered in favour of its pristine beaches and swanky nightlife. Walking in Croatia lets you delve a little deeper and explore lesser-known places such as Milna and the hillside village of Malo Grablje. But if you prefer to stay more central, there are plenty of sights to discover in the port town, from the 13th century walls and Renaissance cathedral to its aromatic lavender fields.
Korcula: There’s no doubt Korcula has been placed firmly on the map by its world-famous wineries and vineyards, and each year discerning wine lovers are drawn here. The island is also made up of sleepy hamlets, woodlands and fishing villages that punctuate the coast, and it’s often referred to as ‘Little Dubrovnik’ owing to its medieval walls and vibrant culture. Our walking holidays in Croatia take you on fascinating journeys of discovery through pretty pastures, olive groves and ancient villages, where you can learn more about the history of the island. Visit the oldest village on the island, Pupnat; walk in the footsteps of the Napoleon general, Marmont; and see the unusual rock formations at Kocje Nature Park.
Brac: Laying claim to being the largest island in central Dalmatia, Brac is a stunning destination that attracts more seasoned walkers and a less glamorous crowd than you’d find in Hvar. Brac is home to the tallest mountain on the Adriatic islands and its landscape comprises rugged coastal cliffs, pebbly beaches, vineyards and pine forests. If you’re planning on going walking in Croatia, Brac certainly offers some fabulous walking trails, and you also have the opportunity to learn about its history too. The island has been inhabited since the Neolithic age and in the 10th century it became a part of the Croatian kingdom of King Tomislav. The Brac Museum has a great collection of ethnographical remains and stones and is a great place for uncovering more of the island’s past.
Mljet: Shrouded in dense forests and lush landscapes, Mljet is one of the most enchanting islands you’ll visit on our Croatia walking holidays. Arrive at the island in style on a catamaran and head to the national park to discover the two impressive salt lakes of Veliko and Malo Jezero. The emerald waters are dazzling and are known for enticing swimmers in for a dip. in the centre of Veliko Jezero stands the islet Melita where a 12th-century Benedictine monastery can be accessed by boat. Throughout the park you’ll find well-marked trails that wind among the island, or you can climb up into the hills that overlook the coast for some spectacular views.
Jane Hallett Sierra de Aitana Trek
Michael Dunford Sierra de Aitana TrekThis is a great week’s walking in a little-known (and underrated) part of Spain. The Aitana range is a compact set of mountains so you get to tick off almost all of it, and there are great views from the top of all the peaks, out to the coast and across to the surrounding peaks. Most of the walks are reasonably demanding, but also rewarding.
Being based in one location, with very short transfers (or none) for each walk makes for a very relaxing week aside from the walking. It’s also a fairly short transfer to/from Alicante Airport.
The vast majority of meals are included which makes it much better value than some other (apparently similarly priced) holidays.
Jose the guide is exceptional: hard-working, helpful, supportive and deeply knowledgeable about the area.
Sally James Sierra de Aitana TrekThank you to our leader, Chandra, guides Prasan, Sagar and Mingma and helpful group of porters for an amazing trek. Our group was also amazing, great company and full of interesting travel stories!
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