One of the best trips I’ve done…
This trip offered a mix of everything- beautiful scenery, lovely undulating walks through and around glorious countryside, vineyards, llevadas and small villages, wine tastings at some excellent local vineyards, excellent accommodation and good food.
Lina, our guide for the trip, was one of the very best. Thoroughly knowledgable and prepared for each day ( and ensuring we were too!) and always thinking about what little things or adjustments might make our days better, as well as being an absolutely lovely person. A guide can really make or break a trip - and Lina is definitely is the first category!
This trip was so good that despite the unusual June weather (so much rain for late June was not typical!) our group still had a really fantastic time.
I read previous reviews prior to going on the trip, and they are all accurate. I would add that I was borderline fit enough for this holiday so found it challenging at times (it was a late decision to go), but I would not have missed a moment of it. I completed all the walks, which are all different from each other. The group I was with was very supportive. Andre the guide made one unit of us from the first night, and was watchful, prepared, knowledgeable and enthusiastic. As he said 80% is in your head, 20% in your walking ability. Apart from Andre, the other essential was walking poles, especially on the long downhill Day 4. I had not been on a holiday with the tour operator before, nor had I been on one without a companion. Any reservations I had were blown away very quickly. It was so enjoyable,I just love Madeira. I am looking for my next holiday already.
Fantastic trip in a beautiful part of Portugal Fantastic trip in Porto and the Douro valley. Varied walks....every day a different type of walk and scenery, and numerous wine and port tastings.....whats not to love! Theres a good mix of walking, and sight seeing....nothing too strenuous. For those of a certain age....a visit to The Mateus Palace, where the infamous Mateus Ros used to be produced, was fun....the palace is featured on the label of the wine.... Accommodation is in 4/5* hotels.....some better than others....but plenty of free time to relax or explore the area. Highly recommend.