“The mountains are calling, and I must go” Back to News

So said the great man of the mountains, John Muir, and it’s a sentiment that resonates with many a walker. The soaring peaks and clear air, meadows bursting with wild flowers, and the gentle music of cow bells are salve to the soul. There’s really nothing quite like reaching a magnificent view and stopping to drink in the majesty of the mountains.

Does that sound appealing? Then do take a look at our Alpine routes for your next walking holiday. From France to Slovenia we have itineraries that will suit hikers looking for everything from modest mountain walking to something a bit more challenging. None of them require serious mountaineering experience, but all will reward with heart-stopping views and a huge sense of achievement.

Visit the Dolomites in northern Italy for towering rocky peaks and tree-clad valleys. You’ll journey from the Germanic influences of the South Tyrol to Italian Cortina, stopping at a jolly mountain refuge on the way. It’s a short summer season, so do plan ahead!

Still in Italy, a gentler route on the fringes of the Alps will take you from Lake Maggiore with its lovely island villas and gardens, to the top of Mottarone – quiet in the months when the winter sports facilities are deserted. Descend to little Lake Orta, with cultural and spiritual sites to visit and plenty of restorative Piedmontese food and wine to sample.

At the southwestern tip of the Alpine range, the Alpes Maritimes descend through France to the coast at Menton. Here the medieval villages perchés are the highlights, with mazes of tiny, winding streets and cosy cafes. On reaching hilltop Ste Agnes, the view of the Mediterranean suddenly opens gloriously before you.

At the opposite eastern end of their massif, the Alps tip into Slovenia, where our Slovenian Highlands route will take you into the lower reaches of Triglav, the national peak. It’s a land of steep valleys, tumbling waterfalls, and crystal clear lakes, complemented by hearty cooking and some great Slovenian wines and beers. Finish your holiday in style with a visit to picturesque Lake Bled.