Artistic Umbria
A journey through history, art and countryside in Umbria, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Italy.
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Marvel at the picturesque landscapes along the Costa Verde in the north west corner of Portugal. Meander along ancient tracks, experience classic Minho villages and sip the area’s delicious ‘vinho verde’ (green wine).
Portugal
Coast & Islands
Landscape
May
Jun
Sep
Oct
Average group size: 12-14 per grade
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
This Grade 4 and Grade 6 holiday. Grade 4 includes full and half day walks at a moderate pace over hilly terrain and is likely to include an element of sightseeing as well. Half day walking will probably include about 3 hours of walking, with full days having around 5 hours. Expect ascents and descents of up to about 600m. See the Walks & Excursions section for more information.
Grade 6 moderate walks which includes full days with appreciable amounts of ascent and descent with walks in some remote areas. Paths are mostly good, but there may be some steep and rough ground. Walks will last up to 6 hours and could involve as much as 750m of ascent and descent. See the Walks & Excursions section for more information.
Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.
Overview
If you are looking at this one week holiday why not make your stay two weeks by joining us on Portugal's Northern Highlights.
Nestled along the enchanting Costa Verde in Northern Portugal, discover a tranquil and verdant haven celebrated for its majestic mountains, lush countryside, pristine beaches, and the delightful allure of "Vinho Verde." Walk along some of Portugal’s finest coastline, meandering through ancient tracks that connect numerous classic Minho villages and lush pastoral valleys.
Trails guide you through the awe-inspiring mountains of Serra d’Ágra, where untamed wild horses roam freely. Explore inland on segments of the Camino de Santiago and along coastal Ecovia pathways, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of a quieter, greener Portugal—a world apart from the lively beaches and towns of the Algarve.
Experience the charm of Vila Praia de Ancora, a coastal town in the North West corner of Portugal, as your base for exploration. Following invigorating walks, unwind on the inviting beaches, perhaps taking a refreshing dip in the sea, and savour the tranquillity as the sun sets, setting the stage for indulging in local cuisine. The centrally located hotel in the heart of Vila Praia de Ancora provides easy access to charming restaurants, offering traditional dishes that form an integral part of the holiday experience. Staying in this coastal gem offers not just exploration but a seamless integration into the local culture, providing a truly enriching and memorable getaway.
Wish you had more time in Portugal to visit the mesmerising city of Porto? Well now you can by extending your holiday with a 2-night stay in Porto. We recommend extending your holiday so you can explore beautiful Porto, the second largest city in Portugal. Be sure to venture down the quieter streets, you may find Porto's quirky half rabbit giant sculpture made of waste, or the tiny hidden bars serving delicious wine and cocktails.
Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.
NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen
26680, 26689
The coast, villages and countryside of the Eastern Algarve and the treasures of the most westerly corner of Europe.
There's the Algarve, and then there's the real Algarve! If you wish to see the latter, come and join us on this two-centre holiday which features the best parts of the Via Algarviana long distance path. Walk to the end of Europe!
Spend two weeks hopping between four colourful islands in the Azores Archipelago.
Combine our 'Portugal Emerald Coast' and 'Wilderness Parks of Northern Portugal' holidays for a wonderful two week holiday discovering Portugal's highlights.
Itinerary & Travel
Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.
Accommodation
Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.
Praia de Ancora is famous for its young wine, lush landscape, traditional villages and quiet golden beaches. There are various clothing and sports shops, supermarkets, and bakeries. The streets are filled with locally run cafes, restaurants and bars. There is also a tourist office on the beachfront and banks with ATM's in the centre. During the winter season, the town can be a little quieter as there may be less tourists and you may find some shops have shorter opening hours.
Located just a couple of minutes’ walk away from the charming Priaia das Criancas beach and five minutes from the town centre, the modern, yet cosy Hotel Meira provides a relaxing base for your holiday. Maybe take a relaxing swim in its outdoor pool and enjoy a drink from the bar on the beautiful sun terrace after a days exploration. You can enjoy the new spa facilities including a sauna, Turkish bath and spa treatments (additional charge).
Stay in standard double and twin bedded ensuite rooms. Twin bedded rooms usually contain typical ‘Austrian type beds’ which consist of one bed frame fitted with two single mattresses and bed-packs with individual duvets. Single rooms are usually twin or double bedded rooms for sole use. All rooms have recently been refurbished and include:
Porto oozes charm. The old town appears to “tumble down” towards the river with splashes of colour on the buildings dotting the hillside. Historical architecture and contemporary architecture sit well together, traditional tiles adorn buildings, including the main train station and restaurants offer fragrant, mouthwatering cuisine. The wines including Vino Verde and of course, port, are in a class of their own. The city has all the facilities you would expect. There are several grocery shops, bakeries, banks, post office and ATMs. Porto has plenty of bars and restaurants to visit in the evening, and is a city perfect for exploring on foot
The modern Hotel Legendary Porto is located in the heart of Porto just a stone’s throw away from the UNESCO World Heritage site and the main shopping centre. Within walking distance, you will find the picturesque Douro River and the port wine cellars. This contemporary hotel has recently been renovated. There is a lounge and bar area and a small fitness centre which is open 24 hours a day.
You'll stay in modern and minimalistic spacious ensuite rooms, decorated with pastel colours and simple furnishings. Facilities include:
Trip Information
Local Transport Costs
In the holiday cost, we've included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.
Optional Excursions
At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.
Holiday Budgeting
As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.
Currency in Portugal
The currency in Portugal is the euro. We recommend you take some euro cash with you until you reach an ATM as credit cards may not be accepted in some towns and rural areas so please ensure you always have cash with you.
Tipping
In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.
Tour Leaders
Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations. Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.
Leader's Evening Briefing
Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.
Fly from London to Porto and return. The transfer from Porto Airport to Praia de Ancora will be by private coach and will take approximately 1¼ hours.
If you intend joining and leaving the party in Praia de Ancora, we assume, unless you have advised us otherwise, that you will meet and leave the party at hotel. If this is not your intention, please let us know in writing at least 5 weeks before departure.
If you decide to extend your holiday in Porto by 2 nights, you will be transferred by private coach back to Porto airport with the group, ready for their departure flight. You will be required to arrange your own transportation from Porto airport to your hotel, arrange your own itinerary and evening dinners, and your own transportation from the hotel to Porto airport ready for your self check in for your return flight home.
Booking Your Own Travel Arrangements
If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.
Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.
If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.
Although airport transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport, depending on your flight arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.
Please be aware that your flight must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.
Hotel Transfers
When you book a Flight-Inclusive holiday, transfers between the airport and hotel and back are included. On some holidays, where we offer various flight options, the transfer vehicle may wait for all flights to land before transferring to the hotel.
Luggage Allowance & Travel Documents
If you're booking a flight or rail inclusive holiday, rest assured that details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.
Personal Details Check
To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.
Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.
You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.
European Passport Advice
If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must meet the Schengen area rules.
Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:
For some Schengen countries your passport may need to be less than 10 years old during your whole visit, and the 3 months at the end of your visit may need to be within 10 years of your passport’s issue date.
Check both the issue date and the expiry date in your passport. If you renewed your passport early, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. This could affect the requirement for your passport to be less than 10 years old.
Non British Passport holders should consult the host country’s embassy for applicable passport and visa entry requirements.
Breakfasts and dinners are included in the holiday price. You will enjoy a buffet breakfast at the hotel with a variety of cold and hot dishes to choose from.
Dinners will mostly be taken in local restaurants but sometimes dinner will be taken in the hotel’s restaurant. Wine and soft drinks are included at all evening dinners. The local restaurants we choose are usually smaller and family run, serving traditional Portuguese food and used by locals. Eating in local restaurants allow us to enjoy an authentic experience and sometimes lively atmosphere in a traditional Portuguese restaurant along with local diners and the Portuguese hospitality. Portuguese dishes are usually created using locally sourced fresh ingredients, and usually consist of soup, meat or fish, vegetables and potatoes. Portugal is famous for its seafood and fresh fish and usually it is caught, cooked and eaten the same day!
Vegetarian options are available if we are advised in advance so please contact our Sales & Reservations department. However please be aware that Portuguese food mostly consists of meat and fish. We do make suggestions on what ingredients to consider to produce a well-balanced and tasty meat and fish free meal, however vegetarian and vegan options can sometimes lack protein and carbohydrates. You can, however, guarantee that ingredients will be fresh and locally sourced.
The hotel is selected for its close location to the main town centre and local restaurants so on some evenings you will be able to walk to local restaurants, on others transport may be provided. During the quieter winter months, many local restaurants close for the season. Therefore, we may eat in the hotel more and we may eat in the same restaurant more than once as availability of open restaurants could be limited.
Lunches are not included and can be taken as picnics or in local cafes.
During the festive holiday dates, enjoy a festive buffet dinner at the hotel on Christmas Eve. Christmas Eve is usually celebrated more than Christmas Day, when families eat and gather around the Christmas tree. On Christmas Day we enjoy a delicious three course festive meal at the hotel.
If you decide to extend your stay in Porto by 2 nights at the end of the holiday, then dinners are not included during your extended stay in Porto. The hotel has a restaurant serving Portuguese and Mediterranean dishes. Porto has a number of wonderful restaurants serving international cuisine and both traditional and modern Portuguese dishes so we recommend exploring local restaurants for dinner.
Footwear
Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.
General Kit List
Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.
If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:
This list is not exhaustive and every walker is different and may have their own preference.
Travel Documents Checklist
Documents and Information to take with you:
Electricity in Portugal
Electricity is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/
Water To Go
Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.
Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.
As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.
Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday departing after November 1, 2023, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!
Maps, Guidebooks & More
Many local libraries stock a selection of travel guides and books which may offer you more information. Apart from any books available in local libraries, the internet is now an excellent resource for information about holiday destinations. You may find the below websites, books and programmes useful.
Maps of the areas we visit (1:200 000 scale) are available locally and at specialist map shops in the UK.
‘The Rough Guide to Portugal’ - Mark Ellingham, John Fisher, Graham Kenyon, Mathew Hancock and Jules Brown.
‘Portugal - A Travellers Guide’ - Susan Loundes (Thornton Cox)
‘Blue Guide: Portugal’ - Ian Robertson
The Map Shop
If you cannot find the maps or books locally we recommend:
The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England
Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com
If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.
Weather
Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:
Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
Health Advice for Portugal
No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Portugal.
You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK.
You may wish to consider immunisations against Tetanus.
Dengue fever exists in Portugal; please take normal precautions against mosquito bites.
Further Travel Advice
For further advice please visit:
You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.
It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.
The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.
Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.
In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.
If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.
Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.
If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.
EHIC & GHIC Cards
Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.
It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.
For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.
When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!
Responsible Travel
We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust
Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.
The primary focus of our Trust's financial support is directed towards Britain's premier walking charity, The Ramblers. They play a crucial role in advocating the benefits and significance of walking to the British public. Additionally, our Trust invites applications for small grants from local organizations in the UK that require support for walking-oriented activities. This encompasses initiatives such as establishing footpaths and bridleways, funding for the reconstruction of bridges and refurbishing huts, and bursary funding for organisations that support individuals to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors..
For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.
Heart and Sole
We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.
Mobile Phones
Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.
Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.
In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or make an effort to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.
Reviews
Useful Information
Capital
Currency
Language
Time Difference
Flight duration
Visas and Passports
January
Avg. Rain: 109mm
February
Avg. Rain: 93mm
March
Avg. Rain: 75mm
April
Avg. Rain: 66mm
May
Avg. Rain: 52mm
June
Avg. Rain: 26mm
July
Avg. Rain: 12mm
August
Avg. Rain: 16mm
September
Avg. Rain: 44mm
October
Avg. Rain: 91mm
November
Avg. Rain: 111mm
December
Avg. Rain: 120mm
View Dates & Book
Can't find what you're looking for?
Call for help or regional flights on 01707 817260