Rethink Your Next Holiday with Headwater
We’re rethinking the way to travel in 2019. Our relaxed walking and cycling holidays offer you the chance to fully immerse yourself in your surroundings and experience a destination like never before. We’ve selected 10 of our most popular destinations that we think deserves to be rethought.
The Algarve
Why it’s time to rethink: the Algarve is so, so much more than just beaches to flop onto. The coastline is undeniably a huge draw, and the beaches are indeed stunning – but if you’re prepared to eschew the more famous ones, you’re able to discover incredible little coves, quiet beaches, and pretty coastal villages where the welcome is infinitely warmer than you’d find at a resort.
The Canary Islands
Why it’s time to rethink: The Canaries have a reputation as a party destination. Whilst it’s true that there are some areas where built-up resorts play music into the small hours, it’s equally true that there’s a second, underrated side to these islands. They’re stunningly beautiful, and if you know where to go, surprisingly quiet with lovely walking routes. Tenerife, Gran Canaria and La Gomera all have hidden secrets up their sleeves: February is a great time to go, before the summer heat kicks in.
Visit the Canary Islands on a walking or cycling holiday
Gozo
Why it’s time to rethink: Malta’s little sibling is the ideal island escape. Despite its small size, this picturesque spot is packed with variety to keep a walker interested for a whole week. Plus, its sunny situation in the Mediterranean Sea makes it ideal for a warming escape before the British summer kicks in – a sneak preview of the shorts and t-shirt weather to come!
Venabu
Why it’s time to rethink: Venabu is teaming with dramatic landscapes as far as the eye can see. Based in central Norway overlooking the Gudbrandsdalen Valley, Venabu offers the perfect location for an active winter escape and some cross country skiing. After a day exploring the snow coated landscapes on Norway’s traditional form of transport, enjoy the sumptuous cuisine and keep an eye out for the Northern Lights.
Visit Norway on Cross-Country Skiing holiday at Venabu
Loire Valley
© Dennis Jarvis
Why it’s time to rethink: Relive the opulence of the French Royal family with the Loire’s magnificent chateaux and world-famous wines. Headwater’s Loire Valley Holidays take you to Touraine, in the heart of the region. Whilst the area is concentrated in just a few precious square kilometres, there are wonderfully quiet byways and little-known corners to be discovered. Here you’ll find one of Europe’s most congenial climates and some of the highest quality locally grown fruit and vegetables in France.
Visit the Loire Valley on a walking or cycling holiday
Bavaria
Why it’s time to rethink: Home to some of the most captivating landscapes in Europe, Bavaria is bursting with culture and history. If you venture down below the tree line, you’ll find picturesque landscapes where the cowbells can be heard in the valleys and the rivers that wind through the gorgeous half-timbered towns and gingerbread houses. We recommend indulging in a crisp glass or two of the region’s white wine – an infinitely pleasant way to end the day!
Visit Bavaria on a walking or cycling holiday
Ring of Kerry
Why it’s time to rethink: A relaxed walking or cycling holiday is the best way to enjoy the gorgeous sandy coves of Ireland’s wild Atlantic Coast. This small corner of Ireland is open and friendly, with fantastic live music for those looking to embrace the traditional and rural feel of the region. The sumptuous seafood to be found on these shores will taste even better after a day exploring the coast and breathing the fresh salty air!
Visit Ireland on an activity holiday
Classic Swiss Alps
Why it’s time to rethink: For some, the Swiss Alps are synonymous with skiing, but these mountains have something magical to offer year round! Walkers looking for world-class alpine joy should make a beeline for the Swiss Alps’ flower filled valleys. Rethink cosy alpine chalets with roaring fires – in summer they’re laden with flower-filled window boxes and the ski lifts become elevators to some of the finest high-level walks imaginable.
Visit the Swiss Alps on a walking holiday
Sicily
Why it’s time to rethink: Italy is one of the world’s most popular destinations, seeing huge visitor numbers – but how many take the time to venture to the stunning volcanic island of Sicily? With stunning beaches, UNESCO world heritage sites and prehistoric caves, Sicily is full of secrets. And don’t forget the food. According to the locals it’s the best you’ll find in the whole of Italy.
Andalucía
Why it’s time to rethink: Get off the beaten track in Andalucía, and discover Moorish white villages, ole mule tracks and panoramic vistas. Heading to Andalucía is a treat for all the senses –pleasant sunny days to enjoy walks or rides, and of course, incredible tastes and aromas of Spanish cuisine to delight each evening.
