Walking Wales, Hand-in-Hand

by Paris Permenter & John Bigley

Hand-in-hand you stroll the countryside, hiking ancient rights of way, visiting historic castles, or just enjoying the beauty of the Wales countryside. If the two of you are looking for the most romantic way to see the smallest country in Britain, the answer may be just a step away.

Walking tours are becoming an increasingly popular way to enjoy an in-depth look at the lush landscape and to experience the countryside and small communities of Wales. Both self-guided walking tours and guided treks that include luggage transfer are available for couples. The two of you can make your home away from home in a cozy country inn, strolling in different directions every day then returning to your home base, or opt to have a tour company transfer your luggage from inn to inn every night. You might choose to join a small group of walkers from around the world, led by a knowledgeable guide, or you may want to set your own itinerary for just the two of you. The choice is yours.

Here's a selection of Wales walking tours sure to put a spring in your step:

*Celtic Trails, http://www.celtrail.com. Celtic Trails offers both independent tours with luggage transfers or spoke tours from a single home base, as well as guided walks. "Guided tours are particularly recommended for anyone who wants to discover the real face of Wales off the beaten track: the mystical landscape, secluded lakes, the Celtic culture, the standing stones and stone circles, ancient druid dwellings, and old Welsh castles. Guided walking with a group is also recommended for people traveling solo who would prefer the company of others," points out Beck Cunningham. "Independent tours are recommended for anyone wishing to walk a long distance trail." Although some walkers prefer to take short jaunts from a central base, many opt to have their luggage moved nightly, working their way along a long distance trail. "We organize the whole walk: arrival, departure, accommodations, meals, maps, and route notes," says Cunningham. "All you need carry is a light daypack for your lunch and additional clothing and maps. At the end of your walk, we arrange for you to be returned to the start of your walk if have left your car there, or take you on to your departure point."

*Ceiriog Country Holidays "We specialize in adding in those little extras which most clients appreciate, such as introducing the Welsh language, male voice choir concerts, working sheepdog sessions, a few drinks with the pub locals," says Ceiriog's Bryn Hughes.

*High Trek, Snowdonia "We offer a range of treks from tough hiking to gentle walking and need to know to which product they are best suited," say Mandy and Ian Whitehead. The mountains of Snowdonia, located in North Wales, offer some of the most spectacular and challenging scenery in the region.

*The Wayfarers These luxurious tours include a guided tour of Snowdonia, a five-day trek that begins in Dolgellau and ends at Seiont Manor. The Wayfarers tours offer first class inns and hotels with gourmet local dishes and regional wine. Tour participants always have the option to ride in a back-up van.

*Wales Countryside Holidays Want to set your own pace? Self-guided tours might be the choice for you. Wales Countryside Holidays offers self-guided walks, all at an easy to moderate pace. "Extra rest days can be booked on any tour to make it more leisurely, although I must stress that all of our tours are easy-to-moderate, nothing too vigorous! And, as they are self guided, people can go at their own pace," explains Linda Reohorn. The company also offers guided tours in Llangollen in mid-north Wales.

For more information, contact the Wales Tourist Board (from the US call 888-544-0541) for a free copy of "Walking Wales" color booklet.

Copyright Paris Permenter and John Bigley