Internationale groepsreis Secret Trails of Medieval Spain

Excellent walking and Guide

We had a wonderful time with great company. The walks were interesting and the views superb. Hotel was comfortable and the food varied and tasty.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Excellent walking in beautiful countryside.

What did you think of your group leader?

Chris is a great guide, extolling his knowledge of the area. He was easy to talk to and looked after everyone. He was very sociable with the group and we all enjoyed his guidance and company.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Learn some Spanish, it is appreciated by the people you meet.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Very good walking holiday. Enjoyed the group's company and we all got on really well. Thanks to Exodus and Chris Burke (tour leader). Thanks to our group for your friendship and camaraderie.

SIERRA DE LAS MAMBLAS

An interesting and value for money trip that explores an area of Spain off the usual tourist trail. The locals, including those at the hotel and other villagers, were genuinely friendly and helpful. The food at the hotel was excellent and they produced regional dishes using local produce that included honey, cherries and wine. The walks, wildlife and scenery were all delightful.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

What did you think of your group leader?

In our opinion Bob Mason is one of the best tour leaders we’ve experienced in many years of group walking. He paced the group appropriately so that we always arrived back at the hotel in good time to relax before dinner. The walks were well thought-out, planned and varied. He was very well-informed about the local flora and fauna and made the walks interesting by passing on some of his extensive knowledge. He was always calm and patient and showed an interest in everybody. Bob gave 'added value' to our holiday and made it memorable.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

SIERRA DE LAS MAMBLAS

This really was a great holiday. Everything just worked out well and I came home feeling refreshed and relaxed. The week was everything I was looking for - great walks and Spanish culture mixed together in just the right amount. I was also lucky to meet a great group of people who helped make the holiday more enjoyable.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

It's difficult to pinpoint one moment, there were many good ones. Was it the unexpected sighting of the fox as is trotted accross the field of poppies? Or the wonderful 360 degree view from the top of the mountain as we ate our locally bought picnic on the last day? Or maybe the ethereal sound of the monks singing vespers in Silos cathedral? It could just have been the taste of a well deserved cold beer drunk in the peaceful square outside the hotel watching the Storks nesting on the church roof. No, too many to choose from I'm afraid.

What did you think of your group leader?

Bob was great fun and his enthusiasm was infectious. He went out of his way to make sure everyone enjoyed themselves and his experience and local knowledge really added to the whole experience.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take a small set of binoculars for spotting the wildlife and maybe a small bird/butterfly book. Insect repellent is very useful, the midges weren't biting but when it got hot there were quite a lot of them. Don't miss the town tour of Covvarubias it's full of surprises.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The website doesn't really do this holiday justice. This area of Spain is often quite ignored and that's a shame because it really is quite lovely. I wondered if being centre based would mean the walks were quite similiar but everyday was different and interesting. Covvarubias is a charming town with interesting history and well worth the visit, and the surrounding countryside is beautiful. If you like Spain and want to find out more then this holiday is for you. Despite the fact that we walked approx 10 -12 miles a day it really didn't feel like it because it was fun and interesting. Go and see for yourself!

SIERRA DE LAS MAMBLAS

As a new member of the 'Exodus experience' I am happy to report the holiday was a complete success and exceeded expectations. The variety of the walks; the colours, fragrances, views...... The assault on the senses was amazing.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Possibly the realisation (each day) that the walks could not have been experienced without the knowledge of our group leader - Bob's love of the area and his desire to share with us this beautiful remote part of Spain. The stunning mountain ranges, the lush green valleys, the abundance of wild flowers, the villages, the tranquility, the wide blue skies........    

What did you think of your group leader?

Very experienced and aware of the needs of all the members in the group. He gave encouragement when needed and always kept us fully informed about everything.  Details of each walk were highlighted the night before and  then during the walk Bob's comprehensive knowledge of the area was dispatched on route! His concern for our comfort and well being, ensuring we all enjoyed our Spanish holiday was evident from beginning to end. He even found coffee houses in the most remote of places!   

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Group walking is a joy and this holiday with a knowledgable leader to guide and inform was a terrific experience and one I can highly recommend. Grab your old comfy boots and give it a go! 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

SIERRA DE LAS MAMBLAS

An absolutley fabulous holiday in spectacular countryside, hills, mountains, valleys.  Wonderful old villages and hermitages all full of history and beauty.  Covarrubias, where we stayed was delightful.  The hotel, simple but very well run. Excellent food and very comfortable accommodation, linen changed three time during week and towels every day.  Our guide, Bob Mason was excellent and very knowledgable.  We saw wonderful wide flowers and he imparted the history of the area very wel indeed.   I would highly reccommend this holiday.   I had a great time and look forward to another trip with Exodus in 2012.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Standing at the top of the wonderful montains and viewing the wonderful scenery all around us. Visiting the monastery at Santo Domingo de Silos and our trip to Burgos - great

What did you think of your group leader?

Bob Mason was absolutly wonderful.   His attention to detail was very good and his knowledge of the area extremly interesting.    I could not doubt his capabilities and he look after the group very very well.  Great fun.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Good comfortable walking boots essential and a good sense of humour.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

SIERRA DE LAS MAMBLAS

This holiday exceeded all expectations:  wonderful countryside, fantastic wildflowers, mediaeval village with stork nesting on church tower, good well-thought out itinerary.  We were well looked after by the hotel owner and our guide and the walks were achievable by our group of 60 to 70 year olds!! 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The walk to Santo Domingo de Silos was the most challenging (only 5 of us went). We followed an old pilgrim's route up from the Arlanza valley to a plateau, through a wonderful meadow of wildflowers, then up a steep, rocky path to the top of a ridge.  The view from there was spectacular, looking across to San Carlos.  A further steep, rocky path led us to another ridge, then down to the village of Silos for a well-deserved beer. Another day, walking along an old mule track in a beautiful valley between the tumbled down village of Castroceniza and Ura, stands out as being special.  Watching the vultures (both Griffon and Eqyptian) while having our picnic in the shade of an overhanging cliff, with the clouds drifting overhead against the blue sky, and a stream gurgling below.

What did you think of your group leader?

The walks were both well planned and well paced.  Bob's knowledge of the area was a great asset - he knew the local people and the history of the area. His attention to detail was great and we felt very well looked after.  We were fortunate to have met him before the holiday - he came walking with our group (Pontesbury Plodders) whilst at home in Shropshire in April - so it was like meeting an old friend.  Next year, it's Austria! 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

You may think the countryside looks rather barren in photographs. Don't be put off.  The valleys are green with wheat fields, meadows, vineyards, cherry orchards and walnut groves (though the latter are suffering from blight).  But the hills are rocky and paths stony - however, they are covered in juniper scrub and smell divine with wild thyme, lavender and gorse.  Botanists love limestone country and this doesn't disappoint.  We saw early purple orchid, lady orchid, bee orchid, white helleborine, rock soapwort, blue aphyllanthes, white rockrose, asphodel, Pyrenean flax, Star of Bethlehem, tassel hyacinth, thyme broomrape, common storksbill, kidney vetch, and lots more.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I was rather daunted by the thought of walking 10 miles a day every day, but it's amazing what you can do when you try.  The walks were set at a pace to suit us all, and by taking all day over them and having frequent stops, they were achieved in relative comfort and, although we were concerned it might be too hot, there was a breeze most days and the air that high up was invigorating.

SIERRA DE LAS MAMBLAS

This is a great holiday with a wide range of scenery, wildlife and plants to see.  It is located in a beautiful part of Spain and is a really good walking holiday. The hotel is very comfortable. hospitable and friendly.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The variety of orchids and birds was a real eye opener.  I did not expect to see Egyption buzzards.  The villages present a range of architectural styles. Attendance at vespers one evenings was quite spiritual!

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent organisation, knowledge and planning made certain that this was a great holiday.  Nothing was too much trouble for Bob.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Yes book now!!  Be prepared for some great days and long evenings in the bar!!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I have been on many Exodus holidays but this centre is a real winner.  A really good hotel and excellent service.  Tremendous value for money and a great time as well.

Secret trails of Mediaeval Spain

An exhilarating walk in a rarely visited area. Covarrubias, the base, is a delightful and picturesque but quiet town; the hotel we stayed in was friendly and welcoming (not least for wine at 1 euro a glass!). The surrounding countryside with its mountainous slopes and vast woodlands offers demanding, but not too exhausting walking. The views from the ridges and tops are spectacular. A rest day in Burgos with vespers at the Silos monastery (optional) provides a pleasant break from the walking days. A thoroughly recommended trip!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Views from the mountain tops and visit to the monastery

What did you think of your group leader?

Chris was excellent - supportive, informative and prepared to be flexible

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go for the tortilla option in the packed lunches - much the most sustaining sandwich on offer

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Excellent Trip

This is a great weeks walking in a beautiful part of Spain. The hotel is very comfortable and the food is good. The prices in the bar are amazingly cheap! €1 for a glass of wine.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The quiet walking. We never saw another walking group, in fact rarely met anyone else while on our walks. The walks were varied, gorge walks and some breathtaking summit views. No one wow moment just lots of lovely days

What did you think of your group leader?

Chris was great. He is a very experienced leader and this shows. He is gentle and relaxed with everyone. He is very sociable and mixed with everyone even arranging and accompanying us on the free day which should of course been his day off

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Although stated that this is at the top end of moderate I, who sit behind a desk all day, did not find this hard walking. There are a few steep ascents and descents but mainly you are walking on pretty level ground with goods paths. Over the five days we walked about 60ish miles. I use walking poles but you could do without them

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you enjoy waking in quiet areas with interesting history and wildlife this is a great trip You certainly get away from it all.

SIERRA DE LAS MAMBLAS

Comfortable walking in rural Spain from a base in a small village. Great views, good food and friendly locals. Best of all not a fast food resturant in sight. This is Real Spain.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Walking along a ridge at eye level with a flying Vulture. Sitting on the ridge with the wind in my hair after a warm climb to the top. Listening to the Monks sing. Sunrise on the last morning. Eating home made tapas in the sun.

What did you think of your group leader?

Bob was great, really knows the area well and nothing is too much trouble for him.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Learn a few Spainish phases before you go as this is not an area where you meet many English speakers. Limber up your knees before you go as a few of the descents were over loose stones. Bone up on a little Spanish history it will help understand the area.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This is not an area of dramatic scenery but the gentle rolling hills give wonderful walking. You will emerse your self in Spanish culture and learn there is more than straw donkey's and sangria to Spain.

Great Holiday

Excellent hotel, in a great local area, with very friendly staff, good food and wine, good local walks, and a superb group to be with.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

One particular steep climb, it must be done !!!!

What did you think of your group leader?

Our leader, Chris Burke, was outstanding in all departments, he was excellent, a pleasure to share the holiday with .

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Just do it !! It's great.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

No I think the above says it all !!

TSR The Secret Trails of Medieval Spain

A walking holiday where you won't meet many other walkers. Well planned routes with a mixture of open views, holm oak woods, ancient villages, cherry orchards and vineyards and more. We saw plenty of vultures, deer and evidence of wild boar; probably heard nightingales and warblers (but none of the group were expert enough to be sure) and saw a multitude of orchids and wildflowers. We felt the walks were a little longer than the trip notes suggested but wouldn't have missed any of it.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Watching storks change over at a nest; seeing rare orchids and daffodils 3cm tall. Reaching the top of Mamblas ridge and realising we were higher than Snowdon - by 200 metres Completing about 105 km over the 5 days Meeting strangers who rapidly became friends

What did you think of your group leader?

Chris was excellent; knowledgable and friendly and just the right amount of support to get us to the top of the steep bits. Good company and an integral part of the group.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

You do need to be used to walking over 10 miles a day and reasonably fit to get the most out of the trip. And a bit of Spanish helps as the hotel staff and locals don't speak English.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

An excellent holiday and May seemed the perfect time to be there.

Spain, but not as you know it..

This corner of Europe is a delightful revelation! Wonderful landscape and steeped in history. Five days of excellent, well planned walks, with a day off to explore Burgos and its amazing cathedral. A good level of fitness, decent boots (and sticks) certainly helps as the walks averaged 20km. May is a good time to enjoy the green spring landscape and abundant flowers, yet still enjoy walking in shorts and bare arms. The Village of Covarrubias is a real gem and not sharing it with any other visible tourists was a bonus. Peace, exercise and fantastic food made a brilliant combination - along with like-minded fellow walkers.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Watching baby vultures teetering on the edge of the cliff top nests in the Ura Gorge; orchids and other alpine type flowers around every corner; the limestone ridges and flat topped hills (as filmed in Spaghetti westerns!); fabulous, authentic Spanish food at the lovely little hotel.

What did you think of your group leader?

Chris was great -he knew the area so well over many years and obviously loved it. He brought great enjoyment to the walks and looked after all of us ladies very well, from start to finish.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for whole days of good walking, sometimes on rough terrain. Good boots and sticks will help. Bring layers, as in mid May it's still pleasantly cool at night, but hot enough in the daytime to need sun protection and a hat. ..and binoculars - for spotting vultures and storks

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I wish I had remembered to bring my binoculars! Do this trip, but don't tell too many people. Covarrubias is a secret gem.

the Secret Trails of Medieval Spain

The best Exodus walking trip I have done. We were a small group with a very knowledgeable and enthusiastic leader. By the end of the week (if not before) it felt like we belonged in Corruvabias and had known each other for a long time. This trip is a chance to explore a not very visited part of Spain, with a ton of local history, scenic surprises around almost every corner and an opportunity to mingle with Spanish local people. There is also the modern day history of 'The Camino' present locally and in particular in Burgos, where 'pilgrims' gather in cafes and in the wonderful Cathedral.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Each day was unique, with lovely wildflowers and birds (notably vultures, perched on the very edges of cliffs and storks nesting on high points of buildings) Dinner (with wine included). Eloy, proprietor of the hotel, cooked all our food and made sure that each day we sampled different Spanish dishes - his cooking is outstanding. With good food and wine the efforts of the day were celebrated and the highlights re-visited. The hotel rooms all have their unique character and a medieval feel. Eloy closed his bar to the locals in the evening in order to concentrate on looking after us.

What did you think of your group leader?

Chris is knowledgeable, enthusiastic and part of the group, whilst still being able to lead it. He obviously loves the area and the people who are ready with their welcome when they see him.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Yes. The walks, although not really difficult, (a couple of steep places but they are short) are long and we walked four days in a row as the bus to Burgos did not run on a Wednesday. We walked 5/6 hours on each walking day, with breaks for coffee and lunch etc. I found that walking poles helped a lot and the knowledge that I could walk at least 10 miles a day.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I'm looking for another trip in Spain - it was that good

Secret trails of medieval Spain

The area around Covarrubias is lovely for walking, enough ups and downs to keep it interesting with lovely views and amazing wildlife. We saw griffin vultures on the cliffs and circling above us, windflowers in the meadows and swifts and house martins flying round the village. The hotel is excellent with plenty of food at breakfast and dinner and a varied menu. I don't eat red meat and there was plenty of fish and vegetables at each meal. We made our own lunches each day with food from the local bakery and supermarket.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There is no single outstanding moment but simply the satisfaction of walking with a lovely group of people. I was lucky to be in a group of excellent people who all got on and the group really seemed to gel right from the start.

What did you think of your group leader?

Emily was a really excellent leader and very encouraging if you felt unsure of anything. I felt a bit worried about descending where there is loose scree underfoot but I was able to go at my own rather slow pace and there were plenty of little breaks to catch up.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

It was hotter than I had anticipated in June so you need to carry plenty of water. There is nothing that most people could not cope with. There was a hairdryer in our room. The room had a bath as well as a shower.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A great trip led by a great leader!

Signed up for this with a friend - our first walking holiday with Exodus and we weren't disappointed! Based out of Covarrubias, a picturesque and characterful town 2hrs north of Madrid - an undiscovered gem off the usual tourist route. 5 days of walking and each day was different, striking off in a different direction each morning. The terrain was varied and we had some fantastic views! Our leader Emily was wonderful - the perfect combination of enthusiasm and professionalism, and so full of knowledge about the local area and the walks themselves. Our day off trip to nearby Burgos was also a pleasant surprise - plenty to see for those culturally/ religiously inclined (famous cathedral and spotting Camino pilgrims) as well as modern evolution museum that far surpassed expectations. Would highly recommend this for all ages - the name of the trip implies a more historic trip - and while there was certainly plenty of history, the emphasis was most definitely on the hikes themselves.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

A great ridge walk on our final day that allowed some of the best views of the trip. The daily dinners provided by the local hotel - some true spanish home cooking - surpassing all expectations in both quality and quantity!

What did you think of your group leader?

Emily was absolutely fantastic - a real asset to Exodus. So knowledgeable and enthusiastic, and handled difficult situations with sensitivity.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Bring lots of layers! The weather was unpredictable when we were there in June - going from 27c to 17c in a single week.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A Great Trip!

Having enjoyed travelling with Exodus several times now, we were certainly not disappointed this time - this trip was one of the best. Covarrubias has a charming small medieval town centre, and the hotel is well-situated in the old part where limited traffic access meant it was very peaceful. The hotel was very comfortable and the meals good - substantial breakfasts and varied dinners (with wine provided). Our host, Eloy, looked after us very well. The walking matched the grade very well for us - 17-20 km walks with leisurely 9.30am starts, and usually ending back at the hotel between 4pm and 5pm - in time for a relaxing beer or two afterwards under the shady trees in the square. The climbs were often gradual, with just a few steep pinches; but the views from the top were well worth the effort. The maximum climbing in one day was 450m (not all at once though). We often had quite hot weather (up to 33°C), but as a lot of the climbs were in the morning, often in partial shade, this wasn't too bad. Rucksacks were a bit heavy though, with up to 2 litres of water, packed lunch and the precautionary waterproofs etc. The main effect of the hot weather was some sore feet after long descents on stony paths - very comfortable boots are needed for such conditions. All but one of the walks started from the hotel, taking us quickly into the lovely countryside. The vast expanses of wild flowers were an unexpected bonus (we thought they'd be over by June). All the walks took in different views and terrain, and were planned to allow for plenty of opportunities to stand and stare, take photos and enjoy leisurely elevenses and lunch. The villages were interesting, if rather quiet. The free day spent in Burgos was worthwhile. The cathedral is spectacular, and the town centre very pleasant to wander around, especially by the river. For a more relaxing day it's worth sharing a taxi to return to Covarrubias late afternoon rather than taking the regular 1pm bus.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Highlights were - panoramic views from ridges or mountain tops, fields of wildflowers, isolated villages, Burgos cathedral.

What did you think of your group leader?

Emily, was great - very friendly, knowledgeable and with relaxed leadership. She paced the walks very well.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Watch out for the stairs in the hotel. A few of our group missed their footing coming down where the stairs turn - the dark wood stain makes the edges hard to see, even with the light on.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

WALKING THE SPANISH HEARTLAND

Very relaxing trip in a wonderfully unspoilt region. Covarrubias is a beautiful Medieval village, full of character and charm.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Highlights of the trip include; the vultures, the visit to Saint Domingo de Silos, the stunning views, the village of Covarrubias and the relaxed informality of the hotel.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was very effecient but also relaxed and friendly. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Secret trails of medieval Spain TSR150523

A really interesting area to visit with regard to history and scenery. The walking was varied mainly along good tracks / footpaths and took in a range of terrains. We went at the end of May 2015 and the wild flowers -especially the orchids were stunning. Walking through the medieval villages along the old trails was like going back in time. It really is a hidden part of Spain that seems to have few tourists. It was very beneficial to have the walks starting from the hotel and / or just a short minibus ride away. The hotel was very clean and comfortable. The meals were traditional Spanish fare using locally grown produce. The staff were excellent and very accommodating in meeting any dietary needs.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The wildlife and history. We saw; several storks nesting on the church towers in the villages whilst griffin vultures soared overhead, numerous bee orchids, the amazing stone carvings in Burgos Cathedral and the delightful villages with their medieval architecture. We were fortunate to gain access into small village churches which added to the sense of history. We also enjoyed sampling freshly picked local cherries and visiting the winery.

What did you think of your group leader?

Emily was an excellent leader. Each evening we had a briefing which was clear and concise. On the trails she set a suitable walking pace and moved around the group so that everyone felt included. She had a pleasant, calm and relaxed manner which put everyone at their ease. She was also fluent in Spanish which was a great help as in some villages there is little English spoken.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Do be prepared for hot weather and take plenty of water and sunscreen with you on the walks. The temperature was in the high 20s and there was no guarantee that the village bars would be open. Also pack waterproofs in case of thunderstorms. Many of the tracks are rocky so a good pair of walking boots with ankle support is needed. The bakeries in Covarrubias sold lovely bread & cakes if you didn't want to order a packed lunch from the hotel.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I found this trip fascinating and heartily recommend the opportunity to visit to this little known area of Spain.

An excellent holiday

This was a really excellent, well organised, holiday in an area of Spain I knew little (if anything) about. The scenery was great with few if any other walkers about. The hotel and food/wine were good and the hotel seemed very able to provide for those who had special dietary needs. The small town we stayed in was interesting and pleasant to walk around on return from the walks. The visit to the bodega was very worthwhile, and the wine there is very good. The trip notes are very accurate.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I found the number of wildflowers very impressive, especially the orchids - which in some areas were covering the ground. I also enjoyed the old villages we walked through which gave a real sense of the history of the area.

What did you think of your group leader?

Emily was an excellent leader. The walk briefings given were clear and covered everything we needed to know, and on the walks she moved around the group to ensure everyone was managing OK.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Some of the tracks are quite rocky, so good walking boots are a great help. It was in the high 20s when we were there at the end of May 2015, so carry lots of water - not every village has an open cafe. High factor sunscreen is essential as you are at over 1000m on most of the walks. The local bakery and shops in Covarrubias have good bread and other provisions for a packed lunch if you don't want the hotel one.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This is an excellent holiday, a hidden gem, and I'm surprised there are not more departure dates for it.