Mountain Adventure Holidays
Swiss glaciers are melting at an unprecedented rate, some losing six per cent of their remaining volume in one year and far exceeding previous records. As a heatwave hits the Alps we look at the water shortage that is now affecting mountain huts.
Water is not a never ending resource and in the mountains the effect of a changing climate is being felt. We know that the rising temperatures are showing their effects in many parts of the world, but first and foremost in the glaciated mountain regions of the world. The glaciers are melting, the winters are warmer and bringing less snow every year and, as a consequence, the water supplies run low. Mountain huts rely on snow for their water, so if there’s not enough snow in the winter then running the huts in the summer is difficult. How are they going to cope with this situation? Will they be able to survive?
In May 2023 Tracks and Trails were pleased to be a part of The Peak District WALX Festival. With over 20 walks and workshops daily over a period of three days with 170 participants from all over the UK. Local guides alongside the WALX own team of experienced leaders were needed so it seemed an obvious choice to be a part of this event. Sam Armstrong of WALX Derwent and Dales asked me to deliver the Mass Trespass walk over Kinder from Hayfield. As this is my back garden when in the UK I was delighted to help out. The bookings came in thick and fast for the this historic walk and the whole weekend was a huge success.
"I applied for a job in finance and got sent off to a finca!" Well, almost, but clearly Cherie Marais who handles all things to do with money matters for Tracks and Trails was not expecting she would also have to hike with our guests. We thought it a splendid idea for her to join one of our groups to see the 'other side' of the business.
Impossible, miserable, and uncomfortable do not need to be the words that come to mind. How about…liberating, relaxing, and satisfying? What to pack for a mountain adventure always requires thought.
One week in the mountains in winter and I am carrying everything I need in a rucksack. Personally I cannot think of anything better than discovering that you can survive with the contents of a 40 litre rucksack.
As news reports of poor snow conditions circulated in the British press I was on my way to Cogne, Italy to experience my first Tracks and Trails holiday. Having been on 'skinny' skis' a couple of times before the obvious choice had been the 'Italian Ski Break for Beginners' along with seven other nordic skiing novices in Cogne, Italy. As we settled in to the evening briefing with Martin. our guide for the holidav. it was obvious that there was no shortage of snow. Cogne is one of the Aosta Valley's prime spots for cross-country skiing.
How do you train to climb mountains when you live in the flat lands? For many of you booking a trail running trip the daily ascents appear to be your greatest concern. How can you possibly get fit enough for your trip and gain full enjoyment from your adventure if you do not have easy access to a hill? We've pulled together some ideas on how to train and get in shape for mountains. Even if you are not a runner you might want to try these exercises and get yourself in shape for the Alps.
Getting a headache trying to think of gifts for friends and family? Never easy is it? To help you in your quest we have given some ideas for the outdoor adventurer for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, trail running and hiking. Items to fill that stocking and earn a smile from the receiver.
If you would like to check how many places are left on a trip, or you want to know the trip status, it is simply done. Read the notes below to find out how.
We left the car and walked into a fairytale world of glittering ice, of rearing dragons, fighting swordsmen, and colours which seemed to vibrate within the ice. We were warmly welcomed into the frozen caverns of The Snow Village. Famed throughout the world as a stunning example of ice sculptures created from an immense imagination.
