I really enjoyed the trip! I would give 4.5 stars if I could. Everything was very well put together and coordinated. The only good thing was knowing ahead of time that some of the site-specific people preferred to speak Spanish (I should have practiced more before going). And I got the transportation information earlier (pickup time, etc.). Everything else was great!
My friend has previously done same tour and like myself felt it was too many countries in timeframe .Perhaps breaking the trip into two segments with option for longer tour with mote time to appreciate.Instead much of the group got viruses from being run down and practically living on coach. Also my preference would be to have guides who reside in those areas as they are truly invested in their homeland. Much of the group noticed the obvious sell for guide receiving top score and top daily tip if 6euro a day. I don't appreciate the sell and English based guides are doing it as a lifestyle,also said blank lovenotes in tip envelope would only encourage people to feel obliged to give more.Perhaps there needs to be a fairer system in place as many travellers cannot afford the said almost 100 euro each to guide and driver. The driver however was incredibly competent and professional,perhaps his feedback would be helpful.On the trip however, I suggest a two week trip that ends in Budapest with option for three nights in Budapest and add on week for remainder of tour ending in relaxed location before ending in Athens
Lovely walking holiday on a rural Greek island I really enjoyed the week on Evia in October, made all the more special by excellent leadership from Cecile Deltreil. The walking is good, scenically varied and very rural (we only saw one other walker the whole week!). Paths were sometimes good, sometimes non-existent on hilltops and sometimes through scratchy scrub - take your long trousers or gaiters. The trip is rated leisurely-moderate and whilst I felt the 4 day walks were 'moderate' in difficulty, partly because of the rough paths, the whole trip is fairly leisurely because you are based in one hotel and have some relaxation time at the end of each day (gin and tonics on the beach!). The Galaxy hotel in Karystos was fine with friendly family staff, good breakfast, but awful showers.