Traveling Guidelines and Information

Spain, Italy, Ireland and Mexico

Our groups: The maximum number in the group is 15 and the minimum is usually 10. The trip is informal with the intent of enjoying natural beauty, the local culture and some historic sites.

Health & Fitness: All are hiking trips and require that travelers be in good physical condition, capable of walking at least 8 miles per day for 5 to 6 days over uneven terrain, and enjoy being out of doors. The hikes are along trails, paths and through open countryside. To prepare for the trip you should lengthen your regular walks. Take some 8 mile hikes involving hill walking. Hiking boots, daypack, hiking poles and rain gear are required. We will supply a suggested clothing list. While most hikes could generally be described as moderate in difficulty, at times long and steep ascents are required.

Questions to consider before signing up for a hiking trip:
• Am I physically fit to go hiking every day?
• Do I have the balance to hike safely on rocky, uneven surfaces?
• Can I hike at least 6 miles over hilly terrain & keep up with the group?
• Do I have a good pair of broken-in hiking boots?
• Am I prepared to hike in a variety of weather conditions?
• Am I willing to be excused from certain hikes should trip leaders find I am unable to safely participate?

Price: The trip price includes your hotel accommodations, meals indicated, all transport required for hikes, entry fees, and services of our guides. Not included are airfare, beverages, and tips.

Accommodations: We stay in small local hotels and guest houses that have been chosen because of their quality. Most rooms have twin or double beds. Some single rooms are available but they book quickly and require a supplemental payment. All rooms have bathrooms en suite. Hotels and guest houses may vary in room sizes offered. Rooms are allocated on a first come, first served basis.

  Travel Group

Travel: We cannot make air travel arrangements for you, but we will provide full instructions on where to meet. When making your air reservations, please pay close attention to the trip meeting/departure place and beginning and ending date/time of your trip.

To avoid problems of flight delay and fatigue on all Europe trips please arrive in the country at least a day before the trip start date. A valid passport is required for all trips outside the US. It is recommended that all travelers have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond completion of travel.

"Look closely.
The beautiful may be small."
–Emmanuel Kant

Shells in Hand