Question 1

You have too many options. Is there any way I can narrow down the selection?

Accepted Answer

Of course. We aim to make your decision as easy as possible. Therefore, we crafted several selections targeted at particular groups of hikers – Best for Beginners, Best for Advanced Hikers, Mountain Hikes, Pilgrimages, Classic Treks, etc.

If you remain unsure and overwhelmed, complete our quiz in under a minute to get tailored recommendations or book a call with us, and we can help you directly.

Question 2

How far in advance should I book my walking tour?

Accepted Answer

The sooner, the better! Booking in advance ensures you secure a spot, especially on popular routes where accommodations in remote areas can fill up quickly. For tours like the Tour du Mont Blanc and Alta Via, it's best to book several months ahead, as these areas have limited availability in mountain huts.

However, for some of our less-traveled tours, it's possible to book just a few weeks in advance, though availability and comfort may be more limited, particularly in remote areas with fewer options. To ensure you have the best experience, we always recommend booking early, especially during peak hiking seasons.

Question 3

Do I need to book specific start dates?

Accepted Answer

Our tours offer flexible starting days, allowing you to begin whenever suits you.However, for some of our most popular routes, like the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) and Alta Via, we have selected departure days due to high demand and pre-booked accommodations.Be sure to check the specific requirements for these tours.

Question 4

Do I need prior hiking experience?

Accepted Answer

We offer a variety of tours suitable for different fitness levels and technical abilities. Some of them require no prior hiking experience.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, we have the perfect route for you. You can find more information in our Hiking Difficulty Guide, and we also have dedicated sections for Best for Beginners and Best for Advanced Hikers to help you choose the suitable tour.

Question 5

What is the fitness level?

Accepted Answer

The fitness level is based on a scale determined by our hiking experts. It varies depending on the tour and defines the selected hiking tour's physical requirements in comparison to others. For a detailed overview, please refer to our Hiking Difficulty Guide.

Question 6

What is the technical level?

Accepted Answer

The technical demands of each hike differ. The technical-level scale defines the technical requirements of each tour in comparison to others, ranging from basic walking to scrambling or using specialized equipment. For a more in-depth explanation of the five levels, please refer to our Hiking Difficulty Guide.

Question 7

Are your tours guided?

Accepted Answer

Most of our tours are self-guided, meaning you have the freedom to explore at your own pace without being tied to a group schedule. We provide detailed digital guidebooks that include maps, route notes, and GPS files to ensure a smooth experience.

You can learn more about the concept by reading Self-Guided Tours Explained. We include a guide only for the most challenging treks, like the Triglav Summit Climb.

Question 8

I booked a self-guided tour. How does it work?

Accepted Answer

We provide a comprehensive digital guidebook with maps, route notes, accommodation details, and emergency contacts. Our support will be available during the tour. However, you'll have all the information you need to enjoy your hike independently.

Check out how self-guided tours work in more detail and an example of our digital guidebook here.

Question 9

What equipment do I need to bring?

Accepted Answer

The basics include sturdy hiking boots, a comfortable backpack, weather-appropriate clothing, and a water bottle. For some tours, you might also need specialized equipment like hiking poles, which you can find recommended in the What To Bring section on each of our tours.

Question 10

How do I get to the starting point of the tour?

Accepted Answer

Most of our tours begin in locations that are easily accessible via public transportation. Whether in Europe, the Americas, or other regions, the starting points are typically near major airports, train stations, or bus stops.

We will provide you with detailed instructions on how to reach the start of your tour using public transport options. If you prefer more convenience, we can arrange private transfers directly from the airport or train station to your starting location for an additional charge.

Question 11

Is accommodation included in the tours?

Accepted Answer

Yes, accommodation is included in all of our tours. We carefully select hotels, guesthouses, and mountain huts that offer comfort and a welcoming atmosphere after a day of hiking.

Question 12

What is the accommodation like on a walking tour?

Accepted Answer

Typically, you'll stay in comfortable 3-star hotels, guesthouses, or mountain huts in more remote areas. Please note that in the mountain huts, accommodations are often shared, with dormitory-style rooms, though some huts offer private rooms if booked well in advance.

Question 13

Can I upgrade the accommodations?

Accepted Answer

Yes, accommodation upgrades are generally possible for most hotels or B&Bs. In the case of mountain huts, there are usually no other options nearby. However, you can book a private room instead of a dormitory if you are early enough.Please note that upgrading accommodations will affect the final tour price.

Question 14

What is the tourist tax?

Accepted Answer

Tourist tax is a small fee charged by some destinations, ranging from €0.50 to €2.50 per night. It is commonly included in your final accommodation bill. However, in some cases, it may need to be paid in cash on-site.

Question 15

What is luggage transfer?

Accepted Answer

Luggage transfer means your baggage is transported from one accommodation to another throughout the tour. It comes convenient on most of our tours except the location-based ones, as it lessens the burden on your back during the hike and allows you to bring additional luggage.Please note that luggage transfer is not possible on all treks.

Question 16

Will my luggage be transported?

Accepted Answer

Luggage transfer is not possible in every location, especially on high-altitude treks. Therefore, we don't include it by default. However, you can optionally add it to your booking on the tours where it's doable.Please note that adding the luggage transfer affects the final price of the hiking tour.

Question 17

What is the luggage allowance?

Accepted Answer

Each transfer allows only one bag per person, which must be soft. The maximum weight permitted is 15 kg. Additionally, bags must not contain food, beverages, medicines, valuables, money, or official documents.

Question 18

What does a typical day look like on a walking tour?

Accepted Answer

Every day on a hiking tour begins in the same way: with breakfast. Then, it differs between the tour types. On hut-to-hut or inn-to-inn hikes, you must leave the accommodation early enough to reach your next lodging within the check-in window.

On center-based hikes, you can leave and return anytime (barring any additional instructions from the accommodation). You can even opt out of hiking and stay in.

On travel & hike tours, you might initially have to drive or take public transportation to the hike's starting point before moving on to your next accommodation. After hiking, you can spend the rest of the day as you please.

Question 19

What if the weather changes unexpectedly during my hike?

Accepted Answer

Weather can be unpredictable, especially in mountainous areas. We closely monitor conditions and will inform you if changes are necessary. As long as you dress accordingly, you can do most of our hikes in light rain. In case of severe weather and storms, we’ll advise you on alternative routes, suggest less strenuous hikes, or offer public transport options.

Question 20

What happens if I need help on the trail?

Accepted Answer

Our support is available to solve minor issues. Additionally, your digital guidebook will include a contact for the local emergency services in the case of a severe crisis.

Question 21

Can you accommodate my food restrictions?

Accepted Answer

Buffet breakfasts in hotels or guesthouses offer enough variety to accommodate vegetarians and vegans. Mountain hut meals are more limited but usually include at least one vegan option. For strict dietary restrictions, you should consider bringing your own food.If you have particular dietary expectations, you must inform us in advance.

Question 22

Can I extend my trip?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! You can extend your holiday by adding extra lodgings to your booking before, during, or after the tour. We will book the additional nights of accommodation and provide recommendations to make the most of your extended stay.

Question 23

Are meals included in the price?

Accepted Answer

Aside from some exceptions in remote places, your booking encompasses half-board accommodation in mountain huts and accommodation with breakfast in hotels, guesthouses, or B&Bs. We provide lunch and dinner recommendations for the latter, allowing you to experience the local cuisine according to your taste instead of eating at the hotel.

Question 24

Will I have cell reception in the mountains?

Accepted Answer

It varies, but as a rule of thumb, you should expect poor mobile reception on our high-altitude hikes. Nonetheless, our travel material and GPS-navigation app can be used offline, ensuring you are fully prepared for any situation.

Question 25

Can I go alone?

Accepted Answer

Of course. We even curated a selection of hiking tours most suitable for solo travelers.

Question 26

Are these tours kid-friendly?

Accepted Answer

It depends on their age and experience, but we also picked several tours suitable for families with children of all ages and levels of experience.

Hiking Tours

A self-guided hiking tour for every adventurer

Europe

Albania

Alps

Andorra

Austria

Bosnia

Bulgaria

Croatia

Cyprus

Denmark

France

Corsica

Germany

Greece

Iceland

Ireland

Italy

Amalfi Coast

Cinque Terre

Dolomites

Sicily

Tuscany

Montenegro

Norway

Portugal

Madeira

Pyrenees

Romania

Slovakia

Slovenia

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

UK

England

Scotland

Wales

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Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided

San Sebastián to Bilbao