Mallorca PUERTO DE SÓLLER

Transcription

1 Mallorca PUERTO DE SÓLLER

2 WELCOME TO Mallorca Since the 1960s, Mallorca has been a popular package tour destination and each year millions of Britons head for the island s main resorts to enjoy a week in the sun. Increasingly, however, the island is being recognised for its beautiful countryside. With an excellent year-round climate and splendid mountain scenery, the island provides the ideal location for a spring or autumn walking holiday. Our base is the attractive coastal town of Puerto de Sóller whose buildings line the promenade around the horseshoe-shaped cove. The island s northern coastline is particularly dramatic and can be enjoyed on walks to the Cap Gros lighthouse and the picturesque village of Deià. The enjoyment of walks along the coastal path is enhanced by spectacular sea views of small secluded bays and plunging cliffs. Inland rise the splendid mountains of the Serra de Tramuntana. The lower slopes are richly planted with groves of olives and oranges, which steadily give way to evergreen forests and the open mountainsides beyond. Hidden away in the hills lie the village sof Valldemossa, Deia and Fornalutx, visited on our walks. 2 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

3 ACCOMMODATION Soller Beach Hotel Carrer de la Marina, 4, Port de Sóller Mallorca Tel: The 4-star Sóller Beach Hotel is located on the beachfront of Port de Sóller with views across the bay to the majestic mountains of the Serra du Tramuntana beyond. The hotel is very near shops and facilities of the resort and just a few minutes walk to the beach. It has recently undergone a major refurbishment and now offers our guests a high standard of comfort with a contemporary twist. Bedrooms: This hotel has 71 comfortable en-suite bedrooms with television, small fridge, safety deposit box (chargeable), complimentary toiletries and hairdryer. Facilities: There is an outdoor swimming pool set in a small garden with some seating. Internet access is free throughout the hotel. Meals: All our holidays include breakfast and evening meal. Breakfast: There is an extensive selection of hot and cold options for breakfast from a self-select buffet. Evening meal: Hotel Sóller Beach provides a three-course meal with choices. There will be a vegetarian option but if you have any special dietary requirements we recommend that you discuss your preferences with the hotel management. Lunch: You may be able to purchase a picnic lunch from the hotel. Alternatively it is possible to buy ingredients from local shops or on some days to eat at one of the local cafés; your leaders will advise you of the options. Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk 3

4 Guided Walking Easier Walks: 4 to 8 miles (6.5-13km) sometimes on rough and stony paths. Up to 1,100ft (330m) of ascent in a day. ITINERARY A unique feature of our Guided Walking holidays is the daily choice of walks. Each evening your leaders will give a short talk about the options for the next day and answer any questions that you may have. In Mallorca you ll have a choice of two guided walks on each walking day. The cost of the transport to and from your walks each day is included in the cost of your holiday. Harder Walks: 7 to 10 miles (11-16km) using steeper and rougher paths. Up to 2,000ft (600m) of ascent in a day. Please note that the itinerary outlined below is provisional and could be subject to change. For the most up to date information, please check our website. A finalised itinerary will be available at the resort and your leaders will talk every evening about the next day s walks. Day 1: Arrival day Dependent upon your arrival time you may have an opportunity to see a little of Puerto de Sóller before your evening meal. On the first evening our leaders will explain more about our walks and there will be time to meet with your fellow guests. Day 2: Cap Gros Lighthouse and ancient olive groves These introductory walks explore the coastline to the south and west of our resort. Walks start and finish at the hotel giving the opportunity for a leisurely start with time to explore Puerto de Sóller, an attractive town set on a sweeping bay. 4 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk Easier Walk: This walk explores the sweeping bay before ascending to the Cap Gros Lighthouse. Heading inland we pass through ancient olive groves before descending back into Puerto de Sóller. 6 miles (9.5km) with 800ft (240m) of ascent. Harder Walk: This also starts around the bay before turning inland towards Sóller. Following good paths and tracks we ascend through olive groves and citrus plantations to reach a hotel where we can stop for a drink. We then head inland taking in superb coastal views before picking up the route of the easier group which we follow in reverse to the lighthouse and back down to Puerto de Sóller bay. 8 miles (13km) with 1,300ft (450m) of ascent.

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6 Day 3: Deià and Valldemossa Today, the easier group will visit the charming village of Deià which lies about six miles along the coast from Puerto de Sóller. This unspoilt spot contains some fine examples of Mallorcan architecture and was once home to a number of writers and artists. Perhaps the most famous of these was Robert Graves, who is buried in the cemetery next to the little church. The harder group visit the picturesque village of Valldemossa, one of the prettiest towns in Mallorca, high in the Tramuntana Mountains. Easier Walk: This walk begins inland between Puerto de Sollér and Deià, and follows an ancient mule track down to the coastal path which leads us to Deià Cove. After an optional swim, our walk heads up through the gorge to the town itself. Our coach will pick the group up mid-afternoon and take them to Valldemossa for refreshments and sightseeing. 5 miles (8km) with 800ft (240m) of ascent. Harder Walk: Starting from Valldemossa, we ascend, steeply at times, through woodland and past an open air museum to reach the Cami d Arxi Duc. From here we have a spectacular walk along the ridge, enjoying superb views towards Deià and Puerto de Sollér, before descending, steeply in places, through woodland to return to Valldemossa. 8 miles (12.5km) with 1,900ft (570m) of ascent. Day 4: L Ofre and the Pilgrim Steps Today our walks explore the rugged mountains and dramatic scenery that lie directly behind Puerto de Sóller. We walk close to the peak of Puig Major which, at 4,750ft (1,447m) is the highest point on the island. Easier Walk: Starting from the Cuber Reservoir the path ascends through the valley to the Col de L Ofre surrounded by magnificent scenery. From here we descend via the Pilgrims Steps through an impressive gorge to eventually reach the lovely village of Biniaraix. After a drink, a short walk brings us to Sóller from where we can take the historic tram or a taxi back to Puerto de Sóller. 8 miles (13km) with 600ft (180m) of ascent and 2,900ft (880m) of descent. Harder Walk: This walk follows a similar route to the easier group but from the col we will make a steep ascent to the summit of L Ofre from where, on a clear day, we can enjoy extensive views. After returning to the col, the path rejoins the route of the easier group through the gorge and the Pilgrims Steps back to Sóller. 10 miles (16km) with 1,200ft (360m) of ascent and 3,500ft (1,050m) of descent. 6 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

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9 Day 5: Free day Each week there is a free day when no guided walks are offered. This is an ideal opportunity to relax around the hotel, walk independently or visit local places of interest. Some options for your free day may include: Valldemossa This is an attractive town high in the Tramuntana Mountains southwest of Sóller, which we also visit as part of the walking programme. However, you may wish to explore the town more fully on your free day. It retains all the old charm of an ancient Mallorcan village, and is home to the former Carthusian monastery where cells were rented to travellers. Two of the most famous occupants of the monastery were Frederick Chopin and his mistress, George Sand. Chopin s quarters can be visited and they contain his piano, death mask and some original manuscripts. Boat trips Boats depart regularly from the marina and will take you along the coast to the beach at Sa Calobra. This is a magnificent stretch of coast and the boat journey gives a very different perspective on this island. Once at Sa Calobra it is possible to view the start of the magnificent gorge of the Torrent de Pareis. Palma de Mallorca Travel on the historic Sóller train or take the express bus to the capital, Palma, to explore the magnificent cathedral and the old quarter with its medieval layout of narrow winding streets. For information on Mallorca please visit Day 6: The Sóller valley and Fornalutx Today s walks enable us to appreciate the agriculture of the Sóller valley before visiting the village of Fornalutx, often described as the prettiest village in Spain. Our return journey takes us along quiet paths and roads to Sóller. Easier Walk: Walking from the hotel we take a quiet back road, gently ascending to a col. A short ascent on a cobbled path rewards us with excellent views over the valley. We continue on good tracks high above the valley before descending to Fornalutx. Easy paths and quiet roads lead us to the small hamlet of Binibassi and then back to Sóller. 7 miles (11km) with 1,100ft (330m) of ascent. Harder Walk: Walking from the hotel, we follow footpaths and tracks to the outskirts of Sóller. We then ascend, steeply in places, to the Mirador de ses Barques for magnificent views of the coastline. Our descent takes us through woodland to a junction of tracks from where we follow in the footsteps of the easier group. 9 miles (15km) with 1,800ft (540m) of ascent. Day 7: Mirador de ses Barques and Cala Tuent Today s walks are a stunning linear coastal walk north of our resort and one of the most popular on the island. Easier Walk: Starting from the mirador visited by the harder group yesterday, the first half of the walk takes us along a wide, stony track through the beautiful and tranquil Bailitx valley, passing ancient farmhouses and olive groves, gradually descending into the heart of the valley to arrive at the Balitx d Avall farmhouse for a drink. A short steep ascent through woodland takes us to a col from where we enjoy an exhilarating coastal walk, descending to the peaceful Cala Tuent. Here you can relax with a drink or enjoy a swim before the journey back to the hotel. 7 miles (11km) with 900ft (270m) of ascent. Harder Walk: This walk takes the same route as the easier walk as far as the col and then takes a narrow descending path, overgrown in places, to the old deserted farmhouse of Sa Costera, situated on a headland. From here we will have superb views of the coastal section ahead. Returning by the same path to the col, we will continue on the route of the easier walk. 8 miles (13km) with 1,400ft (420m) of ascent and 2,800ft (840m) of descent. Day 8: Departure day In the evenings In Europe, our walking holidays continue into the evening. Enjoy a glass of wine or local beer whilst listening to your leaders outlining the next day s walks. After a relaxing evening meal, you may like to join your group for a stroll along the beach, visit a local bar for a nightcap or just watch the sunset before bed. Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk 9

10 Your Walking Leaders: HF Holidays leaders are a pivotal feature of our walking holidays. During the day they will guide you on the walks in a caring and considerate way, showing you places of interest on the route. All our leaders have been selected on an intensive residential course so you can relax and enjoy your holiday knowing that you are in safe hands. Our leaders welcome your comments on the holiday survey; constructive suggestions are very helpful. We take pride in the quality of our holidays and work closely with all our providers to ensure our holidays meet your expectations. If for any reason you are not satisfied our leaders are the best people to help. Local interest guides: In some of our resorts we may employ the services of a local interest guide who will accompany you on a walk to enhance your enjoyment of the area by giving you an insight into its history and culture. Tips for local guides have not been included in the price of your holiday. This is at your own discretion and we invite you to do this directly with the local guide. Maps: Your leaders will of course carry all the maps and detailed walk instructions needed for the walks. he maps available for this area are 1:40,000 Mallorca North and Mountains Tour and Trail ISBN Maps can be obtained by mail order from The Map Shop, Tel: or visit Children: We welcome unaccompanied children of 14 or over on our walks on the basis that they can take full responsibility for themselves. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult. WALKING SAFETY Hydration: In warm weather it is very important to keep hydrated. You will need to carry water with you on walks, more during hot weather or on more demanding walks. One good way of hydrating is to use a hydration pack which allows drinking without constant stopping. This can then be filled up from water sources as required. Insurance: Insurance is a condition of booking. Therefore if you have not already arranged insurance, it is imperative that you do so, and advise us of the insurance company and policy number. We have negotiated special holiday insurance and full details of this cover can be found in our brochure or at hfholidays.co.uk. There is no extra charge for preexisting illnesses. If you would like to purchase insurance from us please call us on or holidayservices@hfholidays.co.uk. Even with an EHIC card, medicines and out-patient treatment normally have to be paid for at the time and the costs reclaimed afterwards details are available at dh.gov.uk/travellers. Therefore insurance is extremely important, as is access to emergency money, preferably a credit card. 10 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk WHAT TO WEAR & BRING To enjoy your walking comfortably and safely, it is essential that your footwear, clothing and equipment are suitable. Changeable weather is possible throughout the year, so our advice is to come prepared for all eventualities. You will need: comfortable outdoor clothing waterproof jacket and overtrousers ankle supporting footwear with non-slip soles small rucksack water bottle (at least 2 litres, more for hot climates) and a thermos flask if you wish sunhat, sun cream and sunglasses The following are recommended to all walkers, and are essential for mountainous and hilly areas: walking boots spare pullover or fleece hat and gloves spare high-energy food e.g. chocolate bar or Kendal mint cake torch You may also wish to consider bringing: walking pole(s) many guests find these useful, particularly for descents camera personal first aid kit Footwear: We recommend wearing walking boots on all our walks, as these provide the best ankle support and grip. Modern approach shoes offer appropriate levels of grip and may be worn on some low level walks, but users should be aware that they offer less ankle support. Lightweight trainers, denim jeans and waterproof capes are not recommended for any walks. HOLIDAY TIPS Language: Spanish Currency: Euro Money: There are several ATM machines in Port de Sóller where you can obtain money. Electricity: 220 Volt AC with round two pin plugs; you will need an adaptor for any appliances brought from the UK. Tap water: Is considered safe to drink, but if you prefer, bottled mineral water can be purchased from the hotel or local supermarkets. Telephone code: If the international number you wish to call starts with a 0, you must drop the starting digit when dialling the number. To dial a UK number 0044 To dial a Italian number 0034

11 linger a little LONGER If you enjoyed your holiday in our destination of Mallorca, we recommend our other holiday at our destination on Menorca, another Balearic island. Two weeks or more You can enjoy a longer holiday either two weeks of walking at one resort or by combining complementary holidays, such as Sorrento on the Neapolitan coastline and Altamura, in the undiscovered region of Puglia. We arrange the transfers between the resorts so that you don t have to. See our brochure or website for more information. Self-guided Walking For those who prefer to explore independently, we recommend our Self-guided Walking holidays. In selected European destinations you can discover unspoiled scenery, historic sites and the local culture at your own pace by following our carefully planned walking routes. Leisure Activities We offer a range of Leisure Activities holidays at some of our European destinations, including Discovery or Garden Tours, Photography, Painting, or Yoga. Worldwide From Alaska to Australia our Worldwide Journeys invite you to explore world famous destinations, and some lesser known gems, on six continents including Europe. TRANSFER INFORMATION If you have booked your holiday with flight you will arrive at Palma de Mallorca Airport. From the UK we offer flights from London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham and Newcastle, which may arrive at different times. Please note that meals are not usually provided on European flights, although some airlines may offer a small snack. Where possible you will be met as you enter the arrivals hall by an HF Holidays leader. Your leader may be on the same flight as you or may arrive on another flight. Occasionally we will ask our transfer coach company to meet you. The driver will be in the arrivals hall holding an HF Holidays sign. Please note that where possible we combine our airport transfers and you may have a short wait at the airport for the rest of your group who will be arriving on a different flight. You will be notified of this in your final confirmation letter. The onward journey to Puerto de Soller by coach takes approximately 45 minutes. For independent travellers: For guests who have booked their holiday without flight HF Holidays can help you to reach the hotel in the following ways: HF Holidays transfer coach from Palma de Mallorca airport. These are timed to meet the HF Holidays flights (provisional flight times can be found on or by calling (1) ). Cost per single journey is Please note that HF Holidays is not responsible for your onward travel if you fail to meet the transfer coach under any circumstance Our Airport Taxi service is available on request. Transfers and taxis must be pre-booked. If you have not already booked your transfer or taxi please call +44 (0) Airport parking and accommodation If you require airport parking or accommodation before your flight, we recommend our partner Holiday Extras. Call and quote HX031 or book online at holidayextras.co.uk/hfholidays Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk 11

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