Frequently Asked Questions
Well over half of our guests return to walk with us in Europe more than once but if this is your first introduction to Hedonistic Hiking, we hope the following information addresses some of your queries.
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How long are the walks?
Each of the individual tour pages features the distances for the shortest and longest days, ranging from 5 km up to 20.5 km. Our tour grading system takes into account the terrain, altitude and levels of ascent or descent on a given day. There is also a support vehicle on hand so that guests can choose to walk as much or as little as they please. The only exception to this is high mountains days where, on occasion, there is no road access on our route and both guides will hike with the group.
What is the average age of the hikers?
Most of our guests are in the 50-70 age range, although we have welcomed hikers in their 80s and in their 30s. Hedonistic Hikers come from English-speaking countries all over the world, so the groups are an interesting mix of friendly, like-minded travellers.
How many people will be in the group?
The maximum number in any group is 16 with two guides for each tour, bringing the number up to 18, and we travel in two 9-seater minibuses.
What if I am travelling on my own?
Our tours are made up of solo travellers, couples and small groups of friends. Mealtimes are relaxed, convivial affairs and are ideal for anyone who enjoys sharing wonderful food and sparkling conversation! All solo travellers are allocated their own double rooms for single use, subject to a nominal single supplement.
How fit do I need to be?
If you are active and enjoy walking, you can choose from a wide range of tours. Our grading system will give you a better idea of the most appropriate tour for your fitness level and clearly indicates the most challenging hikes. To help raise fitness levels before your holiday, visit our Be Fit to Hike page for tips on building strength and useful stretches in addition to choosing the right clothing and equipment.
Do I need special clothing?
It is essential to come equipped with waterproof walking boots and quick-drying walking shirts and trousers. A lightweight day rucksack is also recommended but we have lots of advice about what to bring on the Kit List & Packing Tips page on this website. Space in the vans is limited so it is extremely important to travel light. We can give you more advice on leaving luggage at the start or end of the hike, or moving your luggage via an external service.
What if I have special dietary requirements?
We ask you at the point of booking a tour to inform us of any allergies or intolerances which we would need to know about. We communicate these well in advance to all restaurants and hotels on the tour, and to the tour manager who prepares the picnic lunches.
Who leads the groups?
We are an Anglo-Australian Italian-speaking husband and wife team, and one of us leads every tour. Living much of the year in Italy allows us to design and research the finite details of every tour ourselves, which ensures that our guests have the best possible experience. We are supported by a small team of dedicated and extremely knowledgeable colleagues who help with logistics. Meet the Team here.
What is included?
• Accommodation in atmospheric handpicked hotels
• Support and local knowledge of two experienced guides
• All meals matched with fine local wines
• Gourmet picnic lunches
• Dinners at superb local restaurants
• A support vehicle at all times (except a few high mountain days)
• Transport to/from the start and end of the holiday
• Comprehensive pre-trip information
• Luggage transported so all you need to carry is a small backpack
• Museum visits, cooking classes and wine tastings as per each individual itinerary
Our tours are genuinely all-inclusive, excluding the flight. Our guest feedback rates us excellent in terms of value for money.
