Walking holiday Tuscany - from olive groves to mountain peaks
Step beyond the vineyards and cypress-lined avenues of Chianti and into a wilder side of Tuscany - a landscape of chestnut and beech forests, high limestone ridges, and rugged sandstone peaks. This is the land of the Apuane Alps and the Apennines, where quiet trails lead through ancient woodlands, along airy ridgelines, and to viewpoints that open onto rolling Tuscan hills.
Our journey takes us around the historic hilltop town of Barga, known for its culture and hospitality. By day, we hike among jagged peaks and silent valleys, discovering a Tuscany that feels untamed and timeless. By evening, we enjoy delicious local food, much of it from the garden beside you, always accompanied by an excellent local wine. Welcome to a slower simpler rhythm of life.
Highlights
- Hike the highest mountain in Tuscany
- Stay in a truly lovely traditional Tuscan farmhouse
- Fabulous cuisine prepared by a professional chef
- Complimentary wine with dinner
- Easy trip extension for days in Florence or Pisa
- Gourmet Pizza night with Wine Tasting included
- Italian ice cream 'gelato' after every walk!
- Private pool
- Massage and Reflexology available
For many of our guests, this week of hiking in Tuscany has felt like a true haven of tranquility - a rare chance to combine wild, ancient landscapes with the pleasures of Italian hospitality.
Spring Flowers, Autumn Colours
Spring in Tuscany is a riot of wild flowers, vibrant greens and heady scents. Fresh flavours dominate the menu and the magical fireflies provide the evening entertainment. Autumn offers gorgeous copper and orange colours, sweet chestnuts and figs plucked from the trees, and of course the chance to sample wild porcini mushrooms. Sightings of boar, deer, muflone or even porcupine are common in both seasons.
Our walking holiday Tuscany, is based at Col di Lavacchio, a small organic hill farm with chestnut woodland, olive groves and a small vineyard. The traditional farmhouse provides comfortable and elegant accommodation, with the food and pool adding a touch of luxury. Tuscany hikes through this ancient landscape offer something for everyone.
Holiday Reviews
Grade: Intermediate
READ GRADE DESCRIPTIONAt a Glance
| Holiday Type | Walking |
| Duration | 8 Days |
| Group Size | 4-11 |
| Minimum Age | 18 |
| Maximum Altitude | 2054m (6738ft) |
| Countries Visited | Italy |
| Meet In | Pisa Airport, Italy |
Dates and Prices
2027 Departures
| Code | Start Date | Return Date | Duration | Price | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WTI1 |
15 May 2027
Saturday |
22 May 2027
Saturday |
8 days |
£1,500
Deposit: £250 |
2 More To Guarantee | Contact Us |
| WTI4 |
11 Sep 2027
Saturday |
18 Sep 2027
Saturday |
8 days |
£1,500
Deposit: £250 |
Spaces Available | Book Now |
2028 Departures
What's Included
- Breakfast, picnic lunch (5 days), and dinner with wine (5 nights). Based on two people sharing
- Single rooms available, though limited in number
- All meals are prepared by our professional chef who uses local seasonal produce. All dietary requirements can be met
- Gourmet pizza evening, roll your own and cook in the wood fired oven
- The guiding services of a qualified hiking guide
- On your free day breakfast is provided, but not lunch or dinner to allow you to explore
- Complimentary transfer to/from the railway station on your free day, if required
- Depending on the season, use of the hot tub or the swimming pool
- Airport transfers, and all transport in Italy on walking days
What's Not Included
- Dinner in Barga (day 6)
- Massages or reflexology
- Travel Insurance - required
- Return train tickets to Lucca or Florence (day 5)
- Lunch and dinner on your free day (day 5) are not provided to allow you to make the most of the day if you choose to visit Lucca or Florence
Itinerary
Today you arrive at Col di Lavacchio organic farm, near the tiny hilltop hamlet of Promiana. We invite you to join us in the main house for a complimentary aperitif, at approximately 1800 hrs, where you will meet your guide and discuss the week ahead. A candlelit dinner is served in the cosy dining room amidst the antiques and oil paintings, or on warm evenings we will eat on the terrace with views of the Serchio Valley and the mountains beyond.
This first walk is an excellent introduction to the area, a gorgeous summit with a 'cross' at 1314m (4311ft). Each spring when the narcissi are in flower there is a pilgrimage to the summit involving several hundred local people, there to celebrate the spring flowers, and to enjoy the wonderful scent of the daffodils. We begin with a drive through the steep sided valley of Fabbriche di Vallico to the remote village of Palagnana, where we take an ancient trail through the beech forest. We reach the Foce delle Porchette, a pass, which offers incredible views all the way to the Mediterranean, and the marble quarries where Michelangelo sourced his stone for 'David' in the year 1501. Then it’s up an impressive limestone gorge, before clambering out onto the grassy mountainside, and the final pull to the summit of Monte Croce. We descend by a circular route through the ancient beech forest and the quaint hamlet of Pioppo and enjoy a drink at the village bar in Palagnana.
Ascent: 580m (1902ft) Descent: 570m (1869ft) Distance 9km (5.6 miles) 6hrs
Today’s walk begins in the picturesque village of Fornovolasco, where a meandering river and shuttered houses set a charming scene. We start out along cobbled streets before joining an ancient pilgrims’ path that winds through lush forest on its way toward the coast. As we gradually climb, we’ll pass intriguing caves and the atmospheric ruins of medieval hostels, eventually reaching the mountain pass at Foce di Petrosciana. From this vantage point, sweeping views open up from the rocky spire of Monte Procinto to the distant Mediterranean peaks. A short, non-technical scramble leads us to a stunning ridgeline walk, culminating beneath the striking limestone arch just below Monte Forato’s summit. There will be plenty of time to soak in the scenery and snap some photos before we reach the top, where we’ll stop for a well-earned picnic lunch surrounded by breathtaking views. After our break, we descend via limestone steps to Foce di Valli, then wind our way back down through peaceful meadows and dense forest.
Ascent: 850m (2788ft) Descent: 850m (2788ft) Distance 10km (6 miles) 6hrs
Today’s walk takes us through the enchanting and mysterious Serchio Valley, one of Tuscany’s hidden gems. Our journey begins in the foothills of the Apennines, starting from the quaint village of Renaio. From there, we make our way to Vetricia, a striking region known for its rugged and dramatic Karst landscape. Winding through lush forests, we gradually ascend to the high pastures of the Apennines, following the contours of the hills until we reach the La Porticciola Pass at 1,700 meters. Our path then descends toward the evocatively named Hannibal’s Camp, before we begin the final climb to the summit of Monte Giovo, which rises to 1,991 meters. At the top, we’re rewarded with breathtaking views, including a stunning glimpse of Lago Santo glistening to our left, the perfect backdrop for a well-earned picnic. After soaking in the scenery and capturing plenty of photos, we descend along dramatic hillside trails back to Vetricia. Our adventure ends with a visit to Il Mostrico, a beloved rustic café tucked away in the remote mountain hamlet of Rovaio. Back at our base, we’ll unwind with a pre-dinner drink and cap off the day with a traditional pizza night, enjoyed al fresco on the terrace as the sun sets over the valley.
Ascent: 930m (3051ft) Descent: 930m (3051ft) Distance 11km (6.8 miles) 6 - 7 hrs.
Today you have a free day to either enjoy the beautiful grounds of Lavacchio, relaxing by the pool and resting tired limbs, or perhaps taking a short stroll from the house through the local chestnut woodlands. Many of our guests opt to visit the medieval walled city of Lucca which is absolutely stunning and a great place to relax or engage in some serious retail therapy! It is the birthplace of Giacomo Puccini (1858-1924) who composed some of the most beloved operas of all time, including La bohème, Tosca, and Madame Butterfly. The museum documenting the life of this famous 'local' is definitely worth a visit. A complimentary taxi to the railway station will be offered in the morning with a return service late afternoon. Massage is also available as we have an excellent local masseuse who can come to the house, though pre-booking at the start of the week is essential. In the evening, you can prepare a meal in the farmhouse with delicacies purchased on your visit to Lucca, or stroll along to the local restaurant, Il Sassone di Fobbia. This is the only hiking trip we organise that has a 'day off' but quite simply it is worth every relaxing moment!
A gorgeous summit today, with a chance to sip from the Fountain of Love, and perhaps the chance to pick a few porcini mushrooms on the woods? A short drive to the ancient village of Corfino on the Apennine side of the Serchio valley shows the Garfagnana valley opening up with views to ancient homes perched on the hillsides. Starting from the shepherds’ hamlet of Pruno, we wind upwards along a trail in the beech forests and then join an old cobbled mule track along the south side of the Pania di Corfino. We pause for a sip from the Fonte del Amore - Fountain of Love - and then stop at the tiny mountain community of Campaiana for lunch. Winding up to the summit of the Pania di Corfino at 1603m (5257ft) takes us to an excellent view of the jagged ridges and peaks of the Apuane Alps to the west. The Pania di Corfino is interesting in that it is a limestone mountain set in a range that is otherwise sandstone. We complete our circular walk by heading down the well worn trail to Rifugio Isera and back to Pruno. We normally stop on our way home at the medieval town of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana for gelato. This evening we'll head out to the Barga for dinner in a local trattoria. Barga is one of the most important hill-top towns in the Garfagnana Valley and a great place for an evening out.
Ascent: 775m (2542ft) Descent: 750m (2460ft) Distance 12.5km (7.7 miles) 6 hrs
This is a “big mountain" day. Together with its direct neighbour, Pania Secca, the Pania della Croce stands out as one of the most visible mountains in Tuscany. It forms a barrier, separating the northern main summits of the Apuane group from the lower hillcountry in the south. Throughout the week you will have been aware of the 'Pania' rearing skywards high above the farmhouse at Lavacchio. The peak is made even more dramatic by the fact that the mountain is separated from the rest of the range by two valleys meaning that on both sides the elevation difference is more than 1000m. We being with a short drive to Piglionico at 1008m (3307ft) where there is a memorial to WWII partisans who fought a fierce battle on nearby Monte Rovaio. We then traverse round the north side of the Pania delle Croce, to the Refugio del Freo before beginning our main climb of the day on a steady zig zag path. Gaining the ridge we are offered a vista of a rugged, wild landscape, with impressive faces and cliffs as well as glimpses of numerous marble quarries. The Gulf of La Spezia can be seen in the distance and on a clear day Corsica is visible. An easy path takes us along the ridge to the summit 'cross' at 1858m (6096ft) and a well earned picnic lunch. The descent of the rocky Canale d’Inferno often gives sightings of mouflon, the wild sheep believed to be the ancestors of all domestic sheep breeds. It's then back to Lavacchio for a well-earned drink on the terrace and a chance to watch your final Tuscan sunset.
Ascent: 940m (3083ft) Descent: 890m (2919ft) Distance 11.5km (7 miles) 7 hrs
Tracks and Trails services end after the transfer to join your onward travel.
It is our aim to complete the proposed itinerary outlined above, however, it may be necessary for our guides/instructors to adjust the daily itinerary based on the weather conditions, group safety and enjoyment.
Accommodation
Col di Lavacchio is a beautiful, rustic old Tuscan farmhouse in a stunning rural setting. It is not a hotel, and its simplicity, character and communal atmosphere are very much part of the experience. We have exclusive use of the farmhouse and swimming pool, making it our home for the week. Bedrooms are simple and comfortable, bathrooms and toilets are shared, and there is no air conditioning – the traditional thick walls help keep the farmhouse cool. Being an ancient farmhouse surrounded by countryside means living close to nature, and you may occasionally encounter ants, flies or other insects. While these are managed where possible, they are a natural part of rural life. Rooms are based on two people sharing, with solo travellers sharing with someone of the same gender. A limited number of single rooms may be available for a supplement. Surrounded by olive and fruit trees, herbs and vegetable gardens, Col di Lavacchio offers a wonderfully peaceful and authentic Tuscan experience - perfect for those who enjoy character, informality and sharing farmhouse life with the group.If you have any questions about the accommodation please Contact us for details.
La Fattoria
La Fattoria is a traditional Garfagnana farmhouse in the remote hamlet of Lavacchio.
Chestnut beams, exposed stone and terracotta tiles, combined with antique furniture, art and excellent beds add a touch of luxury to this rural retreat. At La Fattoria there are five bedrooms with three bathrooms, and outside a wisteria clad dining terrace. The sitting room has a wood burning stove. The house is well stocked with books, cards and games. There is a kitchen where you can make teas/coffees and access a fridge, honesty bar and snacks. The terrace is equipped with an enormous barbecue and ancient bread oven. There is a covered table tennis table, marked badminton court, and yoga decking for those who wish to stretch at the end of the day. To accommodate larger groups or to be able to offer single rooms there is also an apartment with two double bedrooms, one large bathroom, lounge area and kitchen. You will also have access to the outside swimming pool with bathrobes available for guests to use.
Trip Information
Italy is easily reached by road, rail, coach or plane.
Train
Train information and advanced tickets for Italy can be bought/sourced here at Trenitalia. If travelling from further afield we recommend using Rail Europe, Trainline and if travelling from the United Kingdom, the Eurostar. It is very easy to reach the local town of Barga-Gallicano by train, and from here we will pick you up from the station and take you to the farmhouse.
Click here for more information on travelling by public transport.
Flights
If travelling by plane, a private group transfer from Pisa airport to your accommodation is provided on the first day. This takes approximately one hour and normally departs the airport at 1430 hrs. If arriving outside of this time it is very easy to reach Barga-Gallicano by train, and we will pick you from the station and take you to the farmhouse. The train journey is not expensive and a ticket can be bought which includes the transfer from the airport to the main Pisa station. The journey takes takes about 2 hrs. The train line which you need to take to Barga-Gallicano is usually going to Aulla or Piazza al Serchio. The ticket price is about 7€ (2022 prices).
Early Arrival
There are inexpensive 'left luggage' facilities in the airport and the train ticket office and information centres are next door. There is a station in the terminal and the journey to Pisa Central Station is just 5 minutes.
Departure
At the end of the holiday there will be a single, timed transfer back to Pisa Airport which departs after breakfast, arriving at the airport for approximately 0930 hrs.
Please do not hesitate to get in touch to chat through the details.
It is your responsibility to ensure any insurance taken out is appropriate for your trip and the activity you will be undertaking. Tracks & Trails cannot advise on insurance policies or be held responsible if, in the event of a claim, your insurance is inadequate.
Activity, Injury and Mountain Rescue It is a condition of booking you are insured for mountain rescue, medical expenses, injury, illness, death, cost of repatriation and personal accident risks. The exception to the mountain rescue insurance requirement is if the trip is taking place in the United Kingdom or Norway where mountain rescue is free of charge. Ensure your insurance covers you to the maximum altitude given on your trip itinerary. The maximum altitude can be checked in the 'At A Glance' box on the trip page.
Trip Cancellation/Curtailment Insurance Insurance should be booked as soon as we confirm your trip is going ahead. Deposit and balance payments are non-refundable unless it is Tracks and Trails who cancel the trip due to a failure to reach the minimum numbers required. In this case we offer a full refund or the option to transfer to another trip.
Baggage Loss/Equipment Damage We advise insurance which covers baggage loss/equipment damage.
All the above is detailed in our Terms and Conditions. For further information on insurance options click here.
When packing for a trip in the mountains it is important to have appropriate equipment and clothing. This kit list features items we believe are necessary for the weather you might encounter and accommodation you will be staying in.
Equipment
- Walking boots - waterproof & comfortable. We have no objection to ‘low cut walking shoes’ provided you are used to walking in them on rough terrain
- Walking Poles – optional, but highly recommended
- Rucksack – 20-25 litres, ideally with a chest & waist strap
- Rucksack liner/cover - to keep contents dry
- Water container - bottle or hydration system
- Gaiters - useful, but not essential
Clothing
- Waterproof Jacket - essential
- Waterproof Trousers - essential. We reserve the right to ask you to purchase waterproof trousers if we deem them necessary, or to ask you to miss a day of the trip if you are not properly equipped for the weather
- Trousers - comfortable walking trousers that allow free movement
- Shorts/skort
- Sun hat
- Warm hat
- Gloves
- Base layer - such as t-shirt/thermal tops
- Fleece jacket/top
- Socks - technical walking socks
- Duvet jacket/warm second layer
- Thermal leggings - optional, and only needed if a cold day
Comfort
- Sunscreen - this is essential and a total ‘bloc’ is useful
- Lip salve
- Sunglasses – essential as the sun can be extremely strong in the mountains
- Toilet/tissues - plus a few biodegradable bags to dispose of rubbish
- Anti-bacterial hand wash
- Swimwear for the pool/hot tub and sandals
Personal First Aid
- Personal medication
- Blister plasters
- Painkillers/anti-inflammatory
- Glucose tablets/Energy gel
- 2 x Re-hydration sachets - eg Dioralyte
- Throat lozenges
- Antiseptic cream/spray
- Insect repellant - Tuscany does have a few ‘bugs’
Documentation
- Mountain Rescue - compulsory
- Insurance- compulsory
- Passport
- Credit card
- Cash - Euros
- GHIC - if travelling from UK for medical cover.
Additional Items
- Slippers for use at accommodation
- Clothing for use at accommodation
- Camera/ Book/Music
- Toiletries - soap/shower gel
- Ear plugs - if room sharing
- Small thermos for hot drinks
- Head torch - plus spare batteries, useful if room sharing
**Supplementary snacks if you follow a gluten free or coeliac diet**
Leaders are all first aid trained and carry their own first aid kit
On many trips there will be an element of 'group kit'. This kit will will be minimal and usually a case of sharing a few lightweight 'survival shelters'. For example, on a week-long trip you may carry a shelter for one day before passing it to the next person. If you are booking a trip in winter there will be a few additional safety items, such as a snow shovel, probe, spare ski pole etc.
For each trip a minimum number of guests is required before we can confirm your trip will go-ahead. Minimum and maximum numbers are displayed in 'At a Glance' on the righthand of the trip page. If you book travel before we have emailed to confirm the trip is guaranteed we cannot be held responsible for any financial loss.
When booking a holiday as a solo traveller a twin bedded room comprising of two single beds, is booked as standard. This will be with someone of the same gender unless you request to pay extra for your own room. Single rooms are often limited in supply so if you would like to pay a supplement for a single room we urge you to get in touch as soon as possible. This trip has a single supplement of £250 for 2027 and 2028.
We go to great lengths to work with first class guides who are passionate about their work. They are all fully qualified, insured, and hold the correct documentation.
Please note your guide has complete discretion to make a daily decision on whether or not to take the advertised route based on the weather and the ability of the members of the group. They have our authority to make any route changes they believe are necessary in the interests of safety and enjoyment.
In Tuscany your hiking guide will be either an International Mountain Leader or, most likely, it will be one of our local team who were born and brought up in the area. Our local guides are certified professionals under the Italian scheme for professional hiking guides, the "Guida Ambientale Escursionistica". You can learn more about our guides and instructors on the About Us page.
We have graded this trip 'Intermediate'. You are never higher than 2054 m (6738 ft) altitude, you have a rest day if you wish and are based in one place making it easy to opt out and lie by the pool. However, the walking is sufficiently steep and challenging to also satisfy the 'keen' walker. One guest described it as, "surprising, impressive, challenging, but done in a relaxed fashion." This week combines 'relaxing' with a full day of exercise on trails that in the Apennine are easy and rolling, while in the Apuane they are rocky and steep. We say that in the Apennine you can walk AND look at the views, whereas in the Apuane you need to STOP before looking at the views. Please read the full grade description before booking.
For this trip where you are centre-based, in other words where you are staying in the same accommodation all week, you are welcome to bring whatever luggage you require. However, please note that there are no elevators in our traditional Tuscan farmhouse. This means you may need to carry your luggage to your bedroom and this might involve climbing several flights of stairs.
The statistics given on your itinerary relating to ascent, descent and distance should be used as a 'general' indication of the effort required. This is a guideline to help you decide if, based on previous experience, your fitness and stamina are correct for the trip. We ask you to note that the even the most modern of technology can show considerable variations in terms of ascent, descent, and in particular distance.
Your leader will carry the correct maps and you are not expected to navigate, but if you would like to have maps of the itinerary you could consider those listed below:
Carta Dei Sentieri e Dei Rifugio - Alpi Apuane 1:25,000
Carta Dei Sentieri e Dei Rifugio - Appennino Reggiano 1:25,000
Carta Dei Sentieri e Dei Rifugio - Appennino Modenese Garfagnana 1:25,000
In mountainous terrain the weather can vary considerably and you should be prepared for any eventuality. Temperatures in Tuscany, Italy, can reach over 30°Celsius (86°F) even in May and June, but can be as low 5°Celsius (41°F) on the high ridges and mountain passes in September, and early October. It is usually sunny with good clear days, but it can rain, and occasionally strong winds can affect walking in the mountain ranges. The average temperatures range from a very pleasant 18 - 25°Celsius (64.4°F - 77°F) in the valleys and 10 -15°Celsius (50-59°F) on the passes.
Food On our trips we encourage you to experience local tastes and dishes. If you are vegetarian catering for your diet is not generally a problem. If you have a 'special' diet because of an allergy/intolerance we ask that you make your needs clear on your booking form so we can discuss your requirements with the accommodation. A diet that is not related to an allergy/intolerance or beliefs cannot be catered for. It is simply not possible for mountain accommodation to deal with many variations in diet while providing meals for groups.
In addition, if you have an allergy/intolerance we would suggest you bring/purchase suitable snacks as a supplement to the picnic lunches. At times finding gluten free bread, for example, can be an issue. If you would like to discuss the suitability of a trip for a vegan diet, gluten or lactose intolerance please contact us. We request that you do not CHANGE your dietary requirements during the trip as we will have pre-ordered your meals.
Water If the accommodation has a problem with the water supply they will post a sign over the tap indicating that you must not drink the water, otherwise it is normal to drink from the tap. Hotels - It is not uncommon for restaurants to charge for tap water at the evening meal. If this is the case then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost. Mountain Huts - If your trip features a stay in a mountain hut/refuge and the tap water is not potable then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost of bottled water at the evening meal. Sparkling water is not included in this option and any cost should be covered by you.
Plastic credit or debit cards or smartphone pay systems are increasingly accepted throughout the areas where we run trips. Some countries, such as Norway, are moving towards a cashless society. However, in Europe, in the mountain areas where we run trips, a small amount of cash in the local currency is useful. For example, if you stop at a family-run mountain cafe or farm they may not accept cards or smartphone systems, and cash will be necessary. We recommend having enough cash in the local currency to pay for a few snacks and drinks. Whether to bring cash or not is at your own discretion.
A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required. We suggest keeping your passport in your rucksack, and a paper copy of your passport in your luggage. If your trip does not include luggage support carry a paper copy with you, but separate from your passport. You should check passport requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate for the country you are visiting, paying attention to your citizenship. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Visa requirements and charges are subject to change without notice.
NEW European Travel Regulations 2026 If you are travelling to Europe you may be impacted by a change to travel regulations. In the last quarter of 2026, the European Commission will roll out a U.S. style electronic travel authorisation system for visitors from countries that are currently not part of the EU. It is your responsibility to check for updates with regard to the introduction date.
We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at: Plug, Socket & Voltage by Country
If your trip involves staying in a mountain refuge/rifugio/hut a slimline and lightweight 'battery pack' can be useful for recharging phones etc. This type of accommodation will generally have electricity, but it may be limited in supply, and it is not always possible to charge items.
If you would like help preparing for your adventure you could consider booking a Quick Fix session with personal trainer Kate Brown. This is aimed at those who want to get ready for any of our Summer activities. Your booking with Kate will involve a 45 minute 1:1 video consultation and action plan. You can read more about her ethos and experience here. We also offer free training videos on our YouTube channel - the following are aimed at those who hike in summer, and continue to do so in winter on snowshoes:
Tracks and Trails pays guides/instructors a fair and appropriate fee for their professional service. If you feel your guide/instructor has provided an excellent service that went 'above and beyond' then it is at the discretion of each guest whether to tip or not. Guests will often give a tip of between 2 - 5 per cent of the total value of their trip. It is entirely up to you and any gesture will no doubt be appreciated no matter the size.
Before booking consider whether you expect to be in the appropriate physical condition on the date of your departure to allow you to fully participate in and enjoy your holiday. If you have any doubts because of an illness or injury it would be advisable to check with your doctor. We advise you always carry your insurance documents with details of the Emergency Medical telephone number for your insurance provider, and your policy number.
GHIC For UK residents travelling to an EU country you should obtain and bring your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). The GHIC gives access to state healthcare in Europe either free or at a reduced cost. The GHIC is not a substitute for medical travel insurance.
EHIC If you have a UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) it will be valid until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you should apply for a GHIC.
We feel strongly about protecting the environment and do not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We would ask that you arrive with a ‘water bottle’ or ‘hydration system’ that can be used repeatedly. We operate a zero tolerance for rubbish, and would ask you to remove all items from the mountain, this includes toilet tissue, and those items you consider to be bio-degradable.
The waste water in mountain huts, also known as refuges/rifugios, often runs into nearby streams and rivers with a potential impact on the eco-system, though in many places steps are now being taken to avoid this. Whether or not your trip involves staying in a mountain hut we would nevertheless recommend you consider nature friendly sunscreens which only contain mineral UV-blocking ingredients such as oxide, and titanium dioxide.
Working across international boundaries, and with various currencies means the price of our trips can change overnight. We have undertaken to guarantee that once you have paid your deposit the price of your trip is fixed. The website price may increase due to currency fluctuations, but we guarantee that the price advertised on the date of your booking will be maintained.
We believe in team work, and enjoy working with other small high quality companies. All our trips are organised by Tracks and Trails, but you may be joined by guests from other companies. Partners are carefully selected to ensure they reflect our ethos and standards. By working with other companies your chosen holiday may reach its minimum number earlier, allowing us to guarantee the trip and give you the go-ahead to book your travel. We guarantee that companies with whom we work will offer the same price package. If you have any questions about this policy contact us.
Lunches are included in your trip fee, and will be provided by your hosts. The lunches are fabulous and are far removed from the normal mountain hiking fare of baguette and cheese. Ailsa will prepare a picnic box each day featuring delicious home made pies, quiches, pastas and salads. You will also have home made cake, fruit and local cheese. Plus we usually take a flask of great Italian coffee to have a morning stop with Ailsa's tray bakes! The food at Col di Lavacchio is a highlight of this trip with much of it sourced from the organic garden.
