Frequently Asked Questions
I would like to go on a trek abroad but don’t know how to start. Any recommendations?
A few questions first? Have you walked abroad before? If not, it’s worth considering a walking trip first to get the lie of the land. Alps, Europe, Nepal or elsewhere? Let’s assume that you want a trek in Europe. How much time do you have? With two weeks you can do many of Europe’s greatest treks, one week is more limiting, three weeks gives scope for longer trips (or two-week trek and then something else). Do you want to go independently or with an organised group? Cicerone guides are suitable for both, although they are mainly directed at the independent trekker.
A good first trek would be something like the Tour of Mont Blanc. Sometimes described as the ‘best walk in Europe’ it has good facilities, fabulous views, a great way-marked trail, a range of cols and other challenges and includes France, Italy and Switzerland, showing a glimpse of the alpine culture in three counties.
It takes 10-12 days so fits a two-week break. The normal start/finish is in Chamonix, a great alpine centre (THE great alpine centre!). There is an outstanding network of huts around the trek, but organised trips might well camp.
It’s not the only trek that gives a great introduction. Alta Via 1 in the Dolomites, the Tour of the Jungfrau Region, the Tour of the Vanoise would all make great treks with excellent facilities, scenery and the whole trekking ambience.
If you're fit, and you've had some experience of alpine walking, you may want to think about a slightly more demanding trek, such as the Tour of Monte Rosa, Tour of the Matterhorn or the ever-popular Chamonix to Zermatt trek.
