Itinerary. wildlife and walk through the impressive UNESCO sites of Gros Morne National Park and historic L Anse-aux- Meadows.

Transcription

1 Newfoundland

2 Itinerary The island of Newfoundland, in Canada s easternmost province of Newfoundland and Labrador, is Canada s fourth largest island. The province has a reputation for its friendliness; you ll soon see why. It has a rich history and a unique culture, both products of its indigenous and immigrant heritage. Indigenous groups have lived in the province for thousands of years; Vikings came in the 11 th century and later Europeans came too. The English colony of St John s is one of the oldest cities in the continent of North America. The province was under British rule until 1949 when it united with Canada. Newfoundland s shores are dotted with colourful fishing huts and windswept beaches, backed by soaring mountains, forests and lakes. On your journey across this island you will marvel at glaciers, discover ancient rock formations, delight at the wildlife and walk through the impressive UNESCO sites of Gros Morne National Park and historic L Anse-aux- Meadows. Day 1: Arrival in Deer Lake and on to Corner Brook We arrive in St John s and fly to Deer Lake. Once there, we meet our local leader and transfer to our accommodation in Corner Brook, where we stay for two nights. Our accommodation is ideally situated for walking in and exploring the local area of the Humber Valley. Accommodation: Marble Inn Resort (2 nights) Meals included: Dinner Day 2: Corner Brook Today we enjoy time hiking in the magnificent Bay of Islands and Blow Me Down Provincial Park. Both have long been popular destinations for residents 2

3 and tourists alike, who come to enjoy the natural attractions and historic sites. The beautiful towns of Lark Harbour and York Harbour are home to breathtaking scenery and offer some of the most scenic hiking trails in the Bay of Islands area. This morning we ll stretch our legs on the James Cook Heritage Trail in the provincial park. This scenic trail offers stunning views over Lark Harbour and commemorates the exploration of the area by James Cook. (2 miles/3.2 km, 755 ft/230 m ascent/descent). There is a possibility of adding an additional short hike to visit Lark Harbour (2.17 miles / 3.5km, 328ft/100m ascent/descent). We then explore the Bottle Cove Trail and visit the Captain Cook monument (1.2 miles/2km, 65ft/20m ascent/descent). Glynmill Inn Point Trail a loop trail to visit wetlands with possibilities of bird sightings (1.2miles / 2km, 49 ft /15 m ascent/descent). Three Bear Mountain Trail enjoy panoramic views of the city, Bay of Islands and nearby mountains on this loop trail (0.6 miles/1km, 98 ft/30m ascent/descent). Corner Brook Gorge Trail a loop trail through woodland offering many scenic lookouts. (2.4 miles/3.9 km, 295 ft/90 m ascent/descent, some short but steep sections). Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 3: Gros Morne National Park Bonne Bay area After breakfast we ll drive to the ruggedly beautiful Gros Morne National Park. The area is now a designated UNESCO site in recognition of its significant geological importance. The park provides a rare example of the process of continental drift, where deep ocean crust and the rocks of the earth s mantle lie exposed. We return to Corner Brook, where we visit the Captain James Cook historic site for impressive views over the city and to the Blomidon Mountains. This afternoon we walk sections of the Steam Trail in Corner Brook before returning to our hotel; possibilities include: 3

4 More recent glacial action here has resulted in some spectacular scenery, with coastal lowland, alpine plateau, fjords, glacial valleys, sheer cliffs, waterfalls and many pristine lakes. Our first walk today will be in the Bonne Bay area. One option is the Lookout trail, which will lead us to one of the best panoramic vistas in the park. We ll climb steadily through forest, emerging from the trees onto a highland plateau where we will enjoy spectacular views of Bonne Bay, Gros Morne Mountain, the Tablelands and the Lookout Hills. (3 miles/5 km loop, ft/ m ascent/descent; some sections steep). Alternatively, we will follow the Tableland trail. The trail follows an old roadbed as it skirts the base of Gros Morne Mountain; the evidence of continental drift is abundant. (2.5 miles/4 km, negligible ascent). If time allows, we ll do both trails. After lunch at Woody Point we ll travel to Norris Point, our base for the next three nights. Depending on the time of year, we have the option to cross the beautiful Bonne Bay by ferry to reach Norris Point ($8.00 pp, payable locally). Our accommodation in Norris Point is set on the shores of the bay. Depending on the weather and time of our arrival, we may be able to take a short walk on the Burnt Hill trail to give us a good introduction to the area. Accommodation: Neddies Harbour Inn (3 nights) Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 4: Gros Morne National Park Trout River Today s walk takes us to the community of Trout River. We follow the Trout River Pond trail, where we ll be greeted by magnificent views of The Narrows, where the two ponds meet. (14km/9 miles, 160m/500ft ascent/descent). The scenery will be a superb contrast of classic glacial valleys with wooded slopes on one side, and the exposed bare, red rock of the earth s mantle on the other. This is also an area where caribou can sometimes be found, so keep a look out. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 4

5 Day 5: Gros Morne National Park Today we head to a location that needs little introduction, as it is the scene you will see on any picture of the national park: a beautiful fjord backed by the cliffs and grandeur of the Long Range Mountains. and in alpine areas; frost and wind nip back the trees exposed branches, giving them their wind-swept profile. The last section of the trail runs over coastal bog and through tuckamore forest until it reaches the beach just before Bakers Brook. There is a wide variety of plant and animal life along the trail; you might even be lucky enough to come upon a moose grazing on new shoots. We stop at Green Point for a walk along the old winter mail road, a coastal route between Baker s Brook and Green Point (3km/1.9 miles, little ascent). The trail once connected two small fishing communities and takes you by cobble beaches and through short but dense coastal forests, known locally as tuckamore. We then follow the Western Brook Pond trail to the pond s shores (6.5km/4 miles, little ascent). Western Brook Pond is in fact a long, narrow land-locked fjord carved by glaciers during the Ice Age. The sheer cliffs can reach a height of 2133 ft/650 m, and plunge 541ft/165 m below the water. The trail crosses coastal bogs and low forested limestone ridges over gentle terrain and boardwalks. The views to the pond are spectacular and are worth the hike. If time allows, we may also have the option of enjoying a twohour boat tour on the fjord ($70.00 pp, payable locally). This is a Newfoundland word for the stunted trees that grow along the coast Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 5

6 Day 6: Gros Morne National Park to St Anthony Day 7: St. Anthony We travel north through the Great Northern Peninsula to St. Anthony. This is a long journey, but we break this up with a couple of stops along the coast, overlooking the Gulf of St. Lawrence. We ll hike along the River of Ponds hiking trail, which runs along one of the greatest salmon rivers in Newfoundland (1.9 miles/3 km, negligible ascent). We continue to Bird Cove and the Dog Peninsula, where we ll visit the 50 Centuries Interpretation Centre and walk along nearby trails. Bird Cove offers an incredible and unforgettable experience. For over 500 years, the Bird Cove area has provided rich resources from the land and sea for a diverse range of people. Prehistoric and historic occupants came to utilize the areas diverse and natural resources. Archaeological digs have shed light on the various people and their way of life. While hiking along the trails and shorelines of the Dog Peninsula, you may well find archaeological artefacts left behind by early European settlers. The town of St. Anthony has a long history of European settlement, dating back to the early 16 th century. It is now a popular destination to visit nearby historic sites or to see natural attractions such as whales or icebergs. The wellknown Iceberg Alley, which stretches from the coast of Labrador to the southeast cost of the island of Newfoundland, is one of the best places in the world to see these glacial giants. Many have come from the glaciers of western Greenland; others from glaciers in Canada s Arctic. We continue to St. Anthony, arriving in the late afternoon at our centrally located accommodation which overlooks the harbour. Accommodation: Hotel North, St. Anthony (3 nights) Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Today s walk possibilities start from Fishing Point Park. This area is the place for walkers in St. Anthony locals and tourists alike and offer opportunities for spotting whales and icebergs: 6

7 Santana Trail this trail includes over 450 steps but the view of the Newfoundland coast and Atlantic Ocean from the top is both mesmerizing and worth the effort. (0.6 miles/1 km, 262 ft/80 m ascent/descent but with many steps involved). Cartier View Trail leads to a look-out over the harbour and the surrounding cliffs. The view is particularly beautiful at sunset, so you may wish to return later in the day. (0.4 miles/0.6 km, negligible ascent). Iceberg Alley Trail a boardwalk trail starting at the lighthouse, which affords great views of the passing icebergs (in season late spring and early summer). (0.5 miles/0.8 km, negligible ascent). Whale Watchers Trail another boardwalk trail which leads to an amazing lookout point over the Atlantic Ocean and, during the whale season, of the passing giants of the ocean. (0.5 miles/0.8 km, 32 ft/10 m ascent/descent with some steps). This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to discover the town of St. Anthony further perhaps explore more trails independently, visit a museum or spend more time looking for whales and icebergs. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner Day 8: L Anse-aux-Meadows Today we travel along the northern section of the Viking Trail to the historic site of L Anse-aux-Meadows, where Leif Eriksson and his crew are believed to have landed. Re-discovered in 1960, it is currently the only certain site of a Norse or Viking settlement in North America; it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Located on the northernmost tip of the island, its current name comes from the French L Anse-aux-Méduses, which translates as Jellyfish Cove. It dates to c CE; hence the strong connection to Leif Eriksson, who came to the area around this time as described in Old Norse sagas and attempted to establish the colony of Vinland in the region. We ll visit the historic site before walking to the nearby Norstead Viking Village. Depending on which trail we take, we may have the opportunity to climb a small hill which affords us panoramic views of our surroundings. ( miles/2-2.5 km, negligible ascent.) 7

8 Depending on our arrival time in Deer Lake, there is also the possibility of a walk along the lake itself. Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express, Deer Lake (1 night) Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 10: Deer Lake to Clarenville On our return to St. Anthony there is the additional possibility of a short hiking trail, depending on how long we spend exploring the Viking sites. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner We begin to make our way south today towards St. John s, stopping overnight in Clarenville. Today s journey is another long one, but we stop en-route to stretch our legs on the Alexander Murray Trail (5.5 miles/9km, 1,100ft/340m ascent/descent). Day 9: St. Anthony to Deer Lake We return south, via the Viking Trail, to Deer Lake. Along the way, we ll stop to enjoy a hike at one of two locations: Farm Trail at Roddickton a delightful loop trail with lots of opportunities for spotting wildlife whilst enjoying the ocean breeze and fantastic views of the Pinnacle mountain (3.1 miles/5 km, 157 ft/48 m ascent/descent). John Hogan Trail at Hawke s Bay Starting at a nature park, this boardwalk trail meanders along the Torrent River, leading us to the Torrent River Salmon Interpretation Centre where we can spot Atlantic salmon as they migrate to their spawning grounds. (3.7 miles/6 km, 148 ft/45 m ascent/descent, generally easy.) This is quite a tough trail, with lots of steps, but the views from the ridgeline and the summit make it absolutely worth the effort! There are breathtaking views from the top of Green Bay and the Gaff Topsails, and along the way we ll pass pristine waterfalls and a 600 ft/182 m deep gorge. 8

9 (Depending on where the hike commences, up to 2.9 miles/4.7 km, 246 ft/75 m ascent/descent.) Continuing our journey to Clarenville, where we arrive in the late afternoon, we travel through the Terra Nova National Park. This is the island s oldest national park (established 1957) and includes a diverse range of rugged landscapes: from cliffs and exposed headlands to sheltered inlets and coves along the coast; to forests, bogs, rocky outcrops and wetlands in the inland areas. There is the possibility of including a short hike in the park; the possibilities here will be easier than the morning s hike. We may follow the Campground Trail, which is great for wildlife sightings, including moose and bald eagles. (1.86 miles/3 km loop, 39 ft/12 m ascent/descent). Another possibility is the Coastal Trail, which snakes along the inner reaches of Newman Sound. It dips in and out between mature boreal forest and shorelines, passing Pissamare Falls, and offers good opportunities for spotting shore birds, bald eagles and ospreys. Accommodation: Clarenville Inn (1 night) Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Day 11: Clarenville to St. John s We travel to St. John s in the morning, arriving in time to have lunch at our leisure in the city. This is Newfoundland and Labrador s capital city; it is also the province s largest city, and a busy commercial port. St. John s is one of North America s oldest European settlements: fishermen established seasonal camps here in the early 16 th century, but it wasn t until the 9

10 1630s that a permanent community was established. It has also gone down in history as the city where Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal, in December This afternoon we ll enjoy hiking in the Conception Bay area, where we have two walk possibilities. The Topsail Bluff Trail, which forms part of the East Coast Trail, climbs steadily up to Topsail Mountain and along the bluff for excellent views of the surrounding area. (1.86 miles/3 km, 656 ft/200 m ascent/descent.) Alternatively, we can follow the Manuel s River Trail with a local park guide. The site is one of scientific and historic significance, due to the presence of exceptionally wellpreserved fossils miles/2.5-5 km, negligible ascent/descent). As we continue our journey to St. John s, there may be time for a short detour to visit the Cape Spear Lighthouse, the most eastern point in North America (if time does not allow, it is also possible for us to include this on our final day). We spend two nights in St. John s: our hotel is well located in the downtown area, offering great access to the harbour and city centre. Accommodation: Delta Hotel & Conference Centre, St. John s (2 nights) for guests on May & July departures Our guide will tell us about the river valley s significance as well as more about its history, geology and flora and fauna. We have time to take either the Upstream or Downstream Trail; there may, however, be time to explore the other section without the guide. (Depending on which section we walk, Please note, for the September departure we are likely to stay in the Quality Hotel Harbourview, St. John s instead of the Delta Hotel & Conference Centre. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner Day 12: St. John s and surroundings Today is spent in the Avalon Peninsula, before returning to St. John s in the late afternoon and our final night in the city. 10

11 We travel to Tor s Cove; from here we follow the La Manche village path (another section of the East Coast Trail) to the abandoned village of La Manche. This is a very popular route along the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, which supports colonies of seabirds, notably puffins. Whales can often be spotted, too. Alternatively, walk with our guide along the Mickeleens Path to Witless Bay. The trail takes us through peaceful woodlands, lush sea meadows and has spectacular views from cliff-edge vantage points to the ecological reserve, coastal geology and the ocean. (4.5 miles/7.3 km, 2360 ft/110 m ascent/descent). We ll cross a suspension bridge to reach the village; we ll enjoy a picnic lunch on the shore nearby. (3.8 miles/6.1 km, 115 ft/35 m ascent/descent). We then journey towards Bay Bulls, where we have two options for the afternoon s activities. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the puffins and whales boat tour (1½ hours, $69 pp, payable locally book with local guide in advance). Please note, for the September departure the boat tour is in the morning only; your local guide will reverse the day s activities to enable you and your fellow guests to enjoy this incredible experience. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner 11

12 Day 13: St. John s and journey home We have time to discover the colourful history and culture of charming St. John s before our night flight home. Enjoy a leisurely morning before checking out of your room at 11am; there will be somewhere for you to store your luggage for the day. An afternoon walking tour of the downtown core with our guide will take us past the brightly painted fishermen s houses, the bustling harbour and on to Signal Hill for spectacular views over the city. We ll return via the North Head trail, leaving time for you to explore the town on your own. Alternatively, you can opt out of the day s activities and use the time to explore independently or relax at your leisure. If we did not visit Cape Spear on our arrival to St. John s, we may have time to visit today either late morning or immediately after our walking tour in the city. Our guide may suggest a meeting point for a final meal (own cost) before we return to the hotel and transfer to the airport for our night flight home. Meals included: Breakfast 12

13 Accommodation Stay in comfortable 3 and 4-star hotels and welcoming inns in city centre and stunning coastal/rural locations. On arrival in Newfoundland we will stay at Marble Inn Resort for 2 nights. You ll find real Newfoundland hospitality here at this 4-star plus resort, located on the banks of the River Humber. Bedrooms are comfortable there is an onsite leisure facility with indoor swimming pool, steam room and sauna. Note; twin rooms here consist of one queen bed and a single pull out bed. restaurant offers locally sourced food with an international twist. We continue to St. Anthony where we will stay at Hotel North for 3 nights. This hotel is centrally located with convenient access to the nearby shopping mall and looking out on the harbour. WiFi is available and rooms have been recently refurbished, with coffee maker, hairdryer. Neddies Harbour inn is ideally situated in the heart of the Gros Morne National Park, providing a great location for our 3-night stay. This award-winning boutique hotel offers first class service with tremendous views of Bonne Bay fjord and the Gros Morne Tablelands. Bedrooms are tastefully designed, free WiFi is available, and there is a sauna, hot tub and fitness room. The Black Spruce We spend 1 night at the Holiday Inn Express. This hotel features an indoor pool and hot tub. Bedrooms are comfortable with coffee maker, hairdryer and free WiFi. 13

14 tub. Rooms will be available for late check out on the final day of the holiday. The Clarenville Inn is a 4-star rated motel style inn located by Trinity Bay. Rooms are with 2 queen or 1 king-sized bed, and come with en-suite facilities, free WiFi, air-conditioning, coffee maker, TV, hairdryer. There is an onsite restaurant, and an outdoor heated pool and hot tub. It may be necessary for the September departure to stay at the Quality Hotel Harbourview in St. John s, owing to a city-wide convention taking place at this time. The hotel offers comfortable and simply decorated rooms in the heart of the historic downtown area; it s close to the harbour, shopping districts and art galleries. There is an onsite fitness centre, laundry facilities, free WiFi and all rooms have a coffee maker, hairdryer and TV. Conveniently located in downtown St John s, the 4-star Delta Hotel & Conference Centre provides great access to the harbour and the city centre. Floor to ceiling windows offer views over the harbour or the city; the en-suite bedrooms have free WiFi, TV and tea/coffee machine. There is a fitness centre, an indoor pool and hot- 14

15 Before your holiday We hope you find this information comprehensive if not please visit our website for more details or contact us. All details correct at time of writing (January 2018). Passport and visa requirements are subject to change; please check with your consulate before you travel. We would advise that you check your government s travel advisory before travelling. For UK travellers, please check In all instances during your holiday, your first point of contact should be your HF Holidays leader or local leader. If for any reason this is not possible, HF Holidays emergency contact details are as follows: Mon - Fri 9am - 7pm Tel +44 (0) or +44(0) (from overseas) Fri - Mon 7pm - 9am Tel +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 Kit List Please try to keep luggage to a minimum as you will need to carry it yourself at airports and between your transport and your hotel. Walking boots (worn in) with good ankle support and spare bootlaces Walking socks Walking sandals Lightweight fleece Lightweight waterproof trousers and jacket Shorts and/or Long trousers Warm fleece, hat and gloves Sun hat Scarf/buff Comfortable clothes and shoes for evenings and sightseeing Sun protection sunglasses, high factor sunscreen and lip protection Water bottle at least 2 litre capacity Lightweight survival bag Small/medium rucksack (30 litre) a bin liner will keep contents dry if it rains Soap and hand sanitizer gel Insect repellent Universal adaptor plug Personal first aid kit including: personal medication, tissues, plasters, blister kit, painkillers, antiseptic wipes, Imodium, rehydration sachets Passport (and copies); booking confirmation; insurance cover note; HF Holidays registration form Optional: trekking poles, camera, umbrella, binoculars. Please ensure you have access to emergency funds should you need them; carrying a credit card is probably the most convenient method. Please note that your HF Holidays leader reserves the right to refuse to take any guest on a walk should they 15

16 consider that a lack of suitable clothing/footwear may affect safety. Baggage allowance 1 piece checked-in luggage (max 23kg). Please check details of your airline s baggage allowance, as shown on your e-ticket. Remember to also check any connecting flights you may have booked. Passports & visas A full passport is required. All British citizens, and those from Australia and New Zealand, will need to present an ETA (electronic travel authorisation) to board your flight. The cost is approx and covers you for 5 years. You will need to apply in advance. Please see ex.asp for more information. If you are a dual Canadian-British national, you are advised to travel with your Canadian passport. Other nationals should check with their nearest Canadian embassy or consulate for details of entry requirements. Travel insurance If arranging your own travel insurance, please ensure it is adequate for your specific itinerary. This should cover walking at altitudes over 2,000m. Health advice This is subject to change and we would highly recommend that you consult your doctor before travelling. For further information on country specific advice, visit or Canadian medical services are excellent but can be expensive and in some areas surcharges are imposed for visitors. Medical insurance is therefore essential. Dietary requirements Please contact us as far in advance as possible if you have any specific dietary requirements. We will do our best to accommodate you. If you require a specific meal on the flight, please let us know as soon as possible, and no later than 96 hours before travel. Travel tips for a comfortable flight We ve put together a few simple tips to help make your flight as comfortable as possible, ensuring you begin your holiday in tip-top shape. Move about. Change position and avoid crossing your legs. Immobility poses the greatest risk in the development of clotting disorders. Get out of your seat and walk around as regularly as possible to improve circulation No pills. Unless advised by your doctor, do not take sleeping tablets on the flight; this will reduce your mobility and make you feel sluggish Protect your ears. If you experience discomfort due to the cabin pressure changes, suck a sweet, chew, or hold your nostrils and gently blow through your nose; this should 16

17 equalise the pressure. If you still experience problems, speak to a member of the cabin crew Drink plenty. Ask a member of the cabin crew if you are thirsty. Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee or carbonated drinks as these will dehydrate you. Try to drink plenty of fruit juices or water Eat light. Avoid heavy meals and foods air expands at altitude and heavy meals will result in that bloated feeling Moisturise. Your skin may feel dry so moisturising may help. If you wear contact lenses, carry your glasses with you, as your eyes may feel dryer than usual Wear loose fitting, comfortable shoes and clothes Flight socks are recommended to help prevent DVT on longhaul flights Lost/damaged luggage If your bag or its contents are damaged or lost while in the airline s care, this should be reported to the baggage service agents at the airport. They will assess the damage and in some cases the airline may decide to settle your claim immediately. You will be given a reference to quote to your insurance company if settlement cannot be reached. In many cases baggage claims can only be accepted in writing. A baggage claim form must be obtained from the airport. HF Holidays with-flight guests For those travelling on our HF Holidays group flight, please proceed to the arrivals hall once you have passed through passport control, customs and baggage reclaim, when you arrive at your destination. Your leader or local leader will assemble the group in the arrivals hall. Look out for the HF Holidays sign. Independent travellers If you are arriving ahead of the group, and are meeting them at the first hotel, please leave a message at the hotel reception for the HF Holidays leader or local leader, detailing your room number, and a mobile telephone number if possible. The leader will contact you once the group arrives. If you are arriving after the group, a message will be left for you at the hotel reception, welcoming you and giving details of the time and place to meet the group. If your flight arrives before the group flight and you would like to join the transfer to the first hotel, please contact our Abroad Administration team on (0) They will have a list of the relevant transfer costs. Safety on your holiday Once you have made your booking, you will receive a pre-holiday questionnaire where we ask for details of next of kin, and insurance details. We need to have this from you at least 4 weeks before travel. Please also inform us of any medical situation which may affect your enjoyment of the holiday Please listen to any safety instructions from the leader Keep group members in view, especially if weather or visibility is poor If you become separated from the group, stay where you are, the leader will retrace their steps to find you 17

18 Each leader carries a first aid kit but is not allowed to supply any medication including aspirin, paracetamol, antihistamines, and antiseptic cream. You may wish to bring these yourself In the unlikely event that your leader is incapacitated, please use any emergency kit in their rucksack and call emergency services on 911. Please then call our emergency number (p. 15). Tipping Tips have been included in your holiday price for key services such as local guides/driver/restaurants. Any additional tips are at your own discretion. Climate The region experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. The summers are humid and range from warm to hot. Cold fronts can bring crisp, windy weather in the early and later parts of summer. Local currency & money matters The local currency in Canada is the Canadian Dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted. Travellers Cheques are not advised. Suggested reading and maps Moon Travel Newfoundland & Labrador, Andrew Hempstead, 2017 Maps can be obtained in advance from The Mapshop Electricity 120V, 2 or 3 flat pin plugs Time difference GMT/UTC -2.5hrs, 3.5hrs in British Summer Time Liability waivers Companies operating outdoor or adventure activities in the USA now commonly require their clients to sign a liability waiver form before participating in the activity. These forms have been introduced by American insurance companies as a means of offering protection against frivolous or opportunistic legal claims. During your holiday you may be asked to complete a liability form with your name, address and signature. This form indicates that by signing it you are waiving your rights to pursue legal action against our agents, in the event of personal injury or loss. However, as all the activities included in your itinerary are part of a pre-arranged holiday, booked and paid for in the UK, this waiver form has no legal weight whatsoever. Your holiday contract is with HF Holidays and as stated in our Booking Conditions, is therefore governed by UK law. We must ask you to sign the waiver forms presented to you by our agents, as not doing so could effectively invalidate other key aspects of the insurance cover they hold. But please be reassured that in the unlikely event that you had cause to make a claim for negligence arising from your holiday, your signing of these waiver forms would in no way undermine or alter your legal rights. 18