Sorrento Peninsula Sorrento 2017 Welcome to Sorrento Sorrento, known in local dialect as ‘Surrient’, is the most important town on the peninsula. Sorrento’s greatest prosperity was during the first century of Roman occupation, when it and Capri were favoured homes of Augustus and Tiberius and the town experienced considerable commercial trade. We explore the world famous Sorrento peninsula with its stunning coastal scenery as well as the remarkable Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Enjoy the ‘Walk of the Gods’ high above the coast and visit the bijou towns along the stunning Amalfi Coast. Why not sample the local drink, limoncello, made in Sorrento and the surrounding villages? You can see the lemons and vines growing even in Sorrento itself. Today, Sorrento has a fascinating atmosphere and is a busy tourist destination. Attractions in the town include the cathedral, renovated in the 15th century, which has an unusual campanile in front, and the 16th century city walls, which are interrupted by the remains of a Roman arch at the top of the town. Also the Museo Correale di Terranova houses an interesting collection of 17th and 18th century decorative art. Narrow streets wind down the cliffs to sea level, where you will find the harbour and two marinas. 2 Reservations - local rate 0345 470 7558 (standard rate 020 8732 1250) Accommodation Hotel Caravel Corso Marion Crawford 61 80065 Sant’Agnello Tel: 0039 095 708 2335 The 4-star Hotel Caravel lies in the residential district of Sant’ Agnello and is surrounded by pleasant gardens with lemon trees. It is owned and run by the Liccardi family, and many of their staff have looked after HF Holidays’ guests for more than 16 years. The esplanade, just 250m from the hotel, has magnificent views across Sorrento Bay. The historic centre of Sorrento is about 1mile away. Bedrooms: There are 92 en-suite bedrooms, each with a television, telephone, hairdryer, safe deposit box and mini-bar. Tea and coffee making facilities are not provided in the bedrooms, but hot drinks can be purchased from the bar. There is an ironing room for guests’ use and an internet point near reception. Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel. Facilities: The main area for meeting fellow guests is the piano bar/lounge on the ground floor which has lots of comfortable seating opening out onto a delightful garden terrace and swimming pool. In the basement there is a games room with pool table. Postcards, stamps and free local maps are all available from the reception desk. Meals: All our holidays include breakfast and evening meal. If you have any special dietary requirements, including vegetarians, it is always better if we know before you travel. Breakfast: Is available from 7am to 9am and is an extensive self-service buffet with a good choice of hot and cold items. Evening meal: Hotel Caravel serves a 3-course evening meal at 7pm which includes many Italian specialities plus an excellent salad bar. 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. To book online visit www.hfholidays.co.uk 3 Holiday 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 Sorrento 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. Easier Walks: 3 to 7 miles (5-11km) on good, but sometimes steep paths. Up to 1,000ft (300m) of ascent in a day. Harder Walks: 4 to 8 miles (6.5-13km) with some long steep ascents and descents, sometimes on stone steps. Up to 1,800ft (540m) 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 You should arrive at the hotel with time to settle into your room and perhaps enjoy a stroll around the local area. On the first evening your leaders will explain more about the walks and there will be plenty of time to meet with your fellow guests. Day 2: Around Zafferane Etnea Having explored a little of Sorrento, we take a bus along the peninsula to the village of Massa Lubrense where both walks start. Easier Walk: From Massa Lubrense our route follows a network of easy paths down to the coast at Punta del Capo. As we head along quiet country roads we walk through lemon and olive groves. After the village of Capo, we start our gradual descent to the 4 Roman village and baths (a natural cove) on the headland overlooking Sorrento. Our route then returns to Capo for the service bus back to Sorrento. 5 miles (8km) with 400ft (120m) of ascent. Harder Walk: Our walk also starts at Massa Lubrense but first takes a long loop and descends through lemon groves to the picturesque fishing harbour of Lobra. We then take a similar route to Capo before walking back into Sorrento. 8 miles (13km) with 1,100ft (330m) of ascent. Day 3: Vesuvius and Herculaneum sightseeing excursion This full day coach excursion takes us to two of the most famous sights in the Bay of Naples, the summit of Vesuvius, one of three active volcanoes in Europe, and the spectacular buried city of Herculaneum. Sightseeing costs: allow approximately €23. Day 4: The heights of Positano The former fishermen’s village of Positano slopes steeply up from the sea and promotes itself as Italy’s most nearly vertical town. Houses are built on terraces in a Moorish style with flat roofs and balconies beneath arcades. The town was made popular and fashionable by writers and artists, such as Franco Zeffirelli and John Steinbeck. Easier Walk: We start at the church of St Maria del Castello for our first breathtaking view over Positano. Our walk follows the “Way of the Gods”, a superb mountain path that traverses the hillside enjoying the most wonderful views. We descend on the ancient stepped mule path to the hospitable village of Montepertuso, from where we catch the bus that winds down the hillside of Positano. 3 miles (5km) with 800ft (240m) of ascent and 1,700ft (510m) of descent. Reservations - local rate 0345 470 7558 (standard rate 020 8732 1250) Harder Walk: We also start at St Maria del Castello and follow the “Way of the Gods” along the hillside of Montepertuso, but continue our walk down into Positano. This section involves a long, steep descent, much of it on stone steps. 6 miles (9.5km) with 1,000ft (300m) of ascent and 2,900ft (870m) of descent. 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: Pompeii Easily reached using the Circumvesuviana Railway, this famous site is an extremely popular free day option. Herculaneum Also on the Circumvesuviana Railway, Herculaneum is another extremely popular choice. Amalfi It is possible to reach charming Amalfi by bus or boat; your leaders can advise. Sorrento Enjoy the old town and perhaps a leisurely lunch in the old harbour. Capri Exploring the legendary island of Capri which can be reached by ferries from the Marina Piccola in Sorrento. Positano It is possible to reach this charming town by public bus. Please ask your leaders for details. Naples Reached by the Circumvesuviana Railway or by fast ferry across the bay, Naples has a wealth of interesting sights. The city has been ruled by Greeks, Romans, Normans, Angevins and Bourbons, all of whom have left theirmark. Head for the National Museum, which houses a magnificent collection of treasures from Pompeii and other ancient sites. For information on Sorrento please visit www.sorrentotourism.com Day 6: Mountain villages Our journey takes us to the start of the walks in villages high above Vico Equense. Both walks will have fine views over the coast. Easier Walk: From Arola we follow narrow lanes out of the village climbing steadily. We continue to ascend on forest tracks to the ridge with a final optional ascent to Monte Vico Alvano for a spectacular view. The return to Arola is on a different path through chestnut woods. 3 miles (5km) with 900ft (270m) of ascent. Harder Walk: From Preazzano, we ascend on a mule track through woods and cultivated terraces to Monte Comune. From there we descend a rocky ridge with views to the end of the peninsula. An optional ascent to Monte Vico Alvano precedes our descent on shady forest paths to Arola. 6 miles (9.5km) with 1,500ft (450m) of ascent. Day 7: Castiglione and the Alcantara Valley Our coach will take us round to the north side of Etna, firstly to Linguaglossa for the harder group and then on via a photo stop to Castiglione for the easier group. Easier Walk: We will have an opportunity to explore Castiglione, which dates from the 5th century BC, and has a wealth of medieval buildings in its hilltop location before gently descending to the Alcantara River, and the diverse small scale agriculture irrigated by ancient water channels built by the Arabs. We will then explore this area before a gentle ascent into the small medieval town of Francavilla where we can drink to toast the end of a great holiday. 5½ miles (8.5km) with 590ft (180m) of ascent. Harder Walk: Our walk starts on the outskirts of Linguaglossa and follows a newly renovated cycle track through small agricultural holdings and up towards Mt Pizzo, with Mt Etna as our continuing backdrop. We then descend to Castiglione, its hilltop location give us opportunities for fantastic photos. We will then have time to explore before descending to the rich agricultural area of the Alcantara River and on via Francavillas Castel taking us into this medieval town with time for a celebratory drink. 9 miles (14.5km) with 1,410ft (430m) of ascent and 2,160ft (660m) of descent. To book online visit www.hfholidays.co.uk 5 Day 8: Departure day In the evenings The friendly atmosphere of our Guided Walking holidays continues into the evening. We’ll enjoy a leisurely meal and then you may also like to join your leader for an evening stroll, listen to local musicians, relax with a book in a quiet lounge or enjoy a drink at the bar with your fellow walkers talking about your day. ltinerary 2 Day 2: The two gulfs Having explored the town, we take a short bus ride to the ridge above the old town of Sorrento, near the village of Fontanelle. Easier Walk: A stroll through Fontanelle takes us to a viewpoint with stunning views. Here we start the main ascent of the day to a path that contours around the hillside and through a shady pine wood, followed by views across to Capri. Eventually, we reach the small town of St Agata where we can visit a café or the 16th century church before returning to Sorrento for further exploration. 6 miles (9.5km) with 900ft (270m) of ascent. Harder Walk: We start west of Fontanelle and follow the same route to St Agata, from where we ascend gently to the Deserto monastery for a striking panorama. Our route down takes us through farmland and lemon and olive to Sorrento where we can explore further. 8 miles (13km) with 600ft (180m) of ascent and 1,800ft (540m) of descent. Day 3: Pompeii - sightseeing excursion Today we visit the buried Roman city of Pompeii which was settled as early as the 8th or 9th century BC, and blossomed as a commercial centre with a population of up to 20,000. In 80 BC it came under the direct domination of Rome, and much building and renovation work was done. The city 6 was closer to the sea than today, near the mouth of the River Sarno. Sightseeing costs: allow €15 entrance fee, guide and audio guides. Day 4: Ravello and Amalfi The world famous ‘Amalfi Drive’ takes us to Amalfi, a former maritime trading republic which once rivalled Venice in importance. The town’s narrow streets and stepped paths cling tightly to the steep hillsides. Easier Walk: After exploring the cathedral and town, we walk through the narrow streets and up into a cool wooded valley to a flat area near a waterfall. From here we ascend the side of the valley to the village of Pontone, enjoying delightful views down to Amalfi. Our bus will take us up to Ravello where there is time to explore. 4 miles (6.5km) with 1,000ft (300m) of ascent. Harder Walk: Our walk is much higher up the mountain than the easier route. We will take transport to Pogerola, 1,000 feet above Amalfi, then pass quickly through the village into more remote feeling countryside where the views are fantastic. 6 miles (9.5km) with 1,700ft (510m) of ascent. Day 5: Free day Please see itinerary 1 Day 6: Path of the Gods Today’s walks both start at the tiny village of Norcelle (1,500ft above the sea) and explore the aptly named “Way of the Gods” as it contours high above the Amalfi Coast. Easier Walk: We walk on “the Way of the Gods” with wonderful views along the Amalfi Coast and across the Bay of Salermo. The paths can be a little exposed in parts but provide excellent views. Our route starts on this path and then from Colle la Serra, we walk round a lush valley to Bomerano. 4 miles (6.5km) with 1,100ft (330m) of ascent. Harder Walk: We follow the same “Way of the Gods” path as the easier route but at Bomerano we continue around to the next valley before ascending to S Lazzaro at the eastern end of the plain of Agerola. The paths can be a bit rocky and exposed but they are pretty good for most of the way. 6 miles (9.5km) with 1,700ft (510m) of ascent. Reservations - local rate 0345 470 7558 (standard rate 020 8732 1250) Day 7: Monte Faito Today we head for Mount Faito which lies to the northeast of Sorrento in the Lattari Mountains. Soak up the extensive views and perhaps enjoy refreshments before starting the walk. We walk through the beautiful beech woods that cover much of these slopes but still enjoy the extensive mountain views right down the peninsula and across to Capri. Affluent locals live up here in the cooler temperatures. Day 8: Departure day In the evenings The friendly atmosphere of our Guided Walking holidays continues into the evening. We’ll enjoy a leisurely meal and then you may also like to join your leader for an evening stroll, listen to local musicians, relax with a book in a quiet lounge or enjoy a drink at the bar with your fellow walkers talking about your day. Transfer information If you have booked your holiday ‘with flight’ you will arrive at Naples Airport. From the UK we offer flights from London Gatwick and Liverpool 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 in the arrivals hall at the airport 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 the transfer coach company to meet you. The coach driver will be waiting in the arrivals hall holding an HF Holidays' sign. The onward journey to Sorrento by coach takes approximately 1¾ hours. 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 Naples airport. These are timed to meet the HF Holidays’ flights (provisional flight times can be found on www.hfholidays.co.uk or by calling (0)20 8732 1220). Cost per single journey is £18.50. 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 operates at this resort, offering quick and easy transfers for guests booking their own flights. All prices are per taxi for single journeys, allowing you to mix and match different transfer options From Naples Airport by taxi transfer £100 per taxi single journey. • Transfers and taxis must be pre-booked. If you have not already booked your transfer or taxi please call +44 (0)20 8732 1220 Airport parking and accommodation If you require airport parking or accommodation before your flight, we recommend our partner Holiday Extras. Call 0800 083 8746 and quote HX031 or book online at www.holidayextras.co.uk/hfholidays To book online visit www.hfholidays.co.uk 7 Walking information Your walking leaders: HF Holidays’ leaders are a pivotal feature of our Guided Walking holidays. During the day they will guide you on the walks in a caring and considerate way, showing you places of interest en 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 for things that they might do differently 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 with any element of your holiday, our leaders are the best people to help. for local interest 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. The maps available for this area are 1:50,000 map of the Sorrento Peninsula which covers most of the walks. Maps can be obtained by mail order from The Map Shop, Tel: 0800 0854080 or visit www.themapshop.co.uk 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. 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 enrich and enhance your enjoyment of the area by giving you an insight into its history and culture. Tips 8 Reservations - local rate 0345 470 7558 (standard rate 020 8732 1250) Walking safely We are committed to running our Guided Walking holidays in a safe manner and your co-operation with this is much appreciated. No outdoor activity can be 100% risk free; however, if you take sensible precautions and adhere to your leaders’ instructions, your holiday will be both safe and enjoyable. On the first evening of your holiday (dependent on arrival time), the leaders will give a short talk about safety on the walks – we would ask everyone to attend. Walking as a group: Our leaders always consider the safety of the group as a whole, and will show more caution over potential risks (such as bad or exceptionally hot weather) than an individual or couple might make on a private outing. Walks may be modified or cancelled following the leaders’ assessment of the day-to-day situation. Your leaders will refuse to accept any guest whose clothing, equipment, behaviour or walking ability is considered unsuitable, and where it could affect the safety and enjoyment of other guests on the proposed walk. It is your responsibility to follow the leader’s guidelines, for the benefit and safety of the group as a whole. If you leave the group, then your leader will no longer have responsibility for you. For safety reasons, we stipulate a minimum party size of two guests in addition to the leader. First aid: In line with current practice, each leader carries a group first aid kit but is not able to supply any ‘medication’, including aspirin, paracetamol, antihistamines and antiseptic cream. Your health: It is essential that you describe on your guest registration form any health condition or disability you may have. The leaders will treat this confidentially and may be able to take it into account on the walks; for example, by not delaying lunch if they know they have someone with diabetes in their party. EU citizens should ensure they have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) prior to their holiday. There can be problems with medical authorities and insurance companies if you cannot produce this when you require treatment – details are available at www.dh.gov.uk/travellers EHIC cards have an expiry date – please check yours is valid before you travel. Hydration: In warm weather it is very important to keep hydrated. You will need to carry a minimum of two litres of water with you on walks, more during hot weather or on more demanding walks. One good way of hydrating is to use a two litre hydration pack which allows drinking without constant stopping. This can then be filled up from additional water sources as required. Your leader will inform you of the possibilities for replenishing your water during the walks. 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 pre-existing illnesses. If you would like to purchase insurance from us please call us on 020 8732 1220 or email [email protected]. 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. There are reciprocal healthcare agreements with the UK that allow free emergency treatment. In non urgent cases payment (normally in cash) may be required. Further details are available at dh.gov.uk/travellers. To book online visit www.hfholidays.co.uk 9 Money: Access to emergency money, preferably via a credit card, is very important as you never know when an emergency may arise. What to wear and bring To enjoy your walking comfortably and safely, it is essential that your footwear, clothing and equipment are suitable for the conditions likely to be encountered. Changeable weather is possible throughout the year, so our advice is to come prepared for all eventualities. Please note that some of our Atlantic island and Mediterranean destinations are also in mountainous areas and at high altitudes (up to 4,000ft). The temperatures can be as low as 0°C. 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 In addition to the above, the following are recommended to all walkers, and are essential for mountainous and hilly areas: • walking boots 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: Italian Currency: Euro Changing money: There are several ATM machines in Sorrento 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: Is considered safe to drink, but if you prefer, bottled mineral water can be purchased from the hotel or local supermarkets. To dial a UK number 0044 To dial an Italian number 0039 • 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 10 Reservations - local rate 0345 470 7558 (standard rate 020 8732 1250) Where next? If you enjoyed your holiday in Sorrento, we recommend our holiday at Altamura, in the Puglia region of Italy, with walking in the beautiful Alta Murgia National Park. Two weeks or more Make the most of your break and enjoy a longer holiday – either two weeks of walking at one resort or by combining complementary holidays, such as San Qurico in Tuscany and Bonassola on the Ligurian coastline.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, on 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. Guided Trail holidays Discover a great sense of achievement on a Guided Trail holiday. We have a great collection of trails on famous routes and outstanding locations across Britain and Europe. 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. Cycling With a wealth of exciting European destinations, we have a range of guided and self-guided holidays to suit all abilities. We also offer guided cycling tours based at some of our UK Country Houses. If you prefer to plan your own itinerary, our UK Country House Escapes also cater for cyclists. Save on outdoor clothing 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. From time to time our outdoor clothing partners have special offers for our guests. Visit www.hfholidays.co.uk/partnerships to see the current offers. To book online visit www.hfholidays.co.uk 11 About HF Holidays We have been organising outdoor holidays for over 100 years and we are the only holiday provider that is a co-operative. We are owned by our 36,000+ members and have no big corporate shareholders. Responsible tourism We have always been committed to acting as a responsible tour operator, and community is at the heart of everything we do. HF Holidays supports a range of projects helping to protect our environment and improving access to the countryside for future generations to enjoy. We support the work of the Ramblers, air ambulances, and mountain rescue teams. To find out more about our policy and commitment to the environment visit hfholidays.co.uk/responsibletourism On returning from your trip, we would like to hear your thoughts on any best practices that you observed and considered positive. Please email [email protected] Pathways Fund Last year guests donated £30,000 to our Pathways Fund. Find more information on our website hfholidays.co.uk/pathways Holiday feedback We value feedback from our guests. All holiday surveys are read by the team that plans our holidays and it plays a valuable part in helping us plan future holidays. If there is any information we have not provided that you feel would be useful for future guests, please do let us know. If we have your email address you will be sent a survey after your holiday; alternatively you can go to hfholidays.co.uk/surveys. Membership of HF Holidays If you have enjoyed your holiday and would like to help support our objectives, call 0345 470 7558 for details of membership (standard rate +44 (0)20 8732 1290). For the latest news and special offers register for our e-newsletter at hfholidays.co.uk/register Social media Contact details HF Holidays’ contact details HF Holidays Ltd Catalyst House 720 Centennial Court Centennial Park Elstree Borehamwood, WD6 3SY www.hfholidays.co.uk Call For any questions before your holiday, we’re here to help, so please contact us on: 0345 470 7558 (local rate) 00 44 (0)20 8732 1250 (from outside the UK) Monday-Friday 9am-7pm Email [email protected] Emergency contact details In all instances during your holiday,your first point of contact should be our HF Holidays’ leaders. If for any reason this is not possible, HF Holidays’ emergency contact details are as above or: Friday 7pm to Monday 9am +44 (0)7918 737777
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