42 independent reviews for Cooking and walking vacation, Spanish Pyrenees
Reviews for Cooking and walking vacation, Spanish Pyrenees
Judith Kahn review 21 Jan 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
I have had a hard time starting this review mostly because I wanted the review to be perfect, which is how I felt about my time on this trip. Picking a "most memorable" part of the vacation is equally hard. I loved sitting outside for dinner with a view of the sun setting over the mountains. The hikes were challenging for me but the scenery was well worth the effort. The cooking classes were enjoyable, instructive, and delicious. The hospitality was warm and welcoming.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
For Americans reading the brochure, it's important to know the difference between how the British define "walking" and how Americans define it. Brits, I came to discover, a "walk" includes sturdy hiking shoes, hiking poles, and going up steep inclines!! In other words, be prepared for a good hike and you'll be fine.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely! We ate and drank wine from local vendors, lunched at small-town restaurants, and learned about birds and geology.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
I give this vacation the highest of ratings. Simon and Lucy are the best hosts and I hope to experience another stay at their farmhouse and another excursion into the Pyrenees.Debra Lichtenthaeler review 18 Nov 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The scope & breath of topics explored. Totally unexpected and totally enjoyed. Neolithic to medieval to civil war history, local geology, flora & fauna, conservation challenges & efforts, pilgrimage chapels to cathedrals, renovation issues in deserted hamlets, goat & sheep herding, local organic goats cheese, gorgeous scenery and doable hikes with picnic lunches. Then there were the cooking classes. And the delicious food and wine. All in the context of a restored 17th century farmhouse and barn, combining authenticity, character and comfort.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Come with curiosity, a water bottle and good walking shoes. And book early. Simon & Lucy's offerings fill up early and rightly so.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Without question. Alongside their own garden produce, Simon & Lucy only use local products. Tours are via local guides, and its obvious they have a good local network & expertise to draw upon. Water bottles were refilled at the lodging and on tours. Reuseable wax wraps for lunches. Composting. Much of their furniture is repurposed. Both are involved & promote conservation efforts of the beardedd vultue.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Five Star. Heartily recommend without reserve.Martha Nitzberg review 3 Nov 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
It was the whole package: Location, cooking lessons with explanations of the science behind flavors… and hiking in the beautiful surroundings2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be flexible as weather can change plans and wear good, sturdy hiking boots3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. They support local causes and are eco-friendly and active in causes4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent way to combine culture with nature and healthy activitiesLynne Harrison review 1 Nov 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Difficult to say as the vacation was the perfect combination for me of culture, history and the outdoors but perhaps most memorable was the hospitality of Simon and Lucy who could not do enough to make sure that we all had the very best time.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Check the website Lucy recommends for the weather forecast.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Really wonderful.Lesley Bottomley review 27 Oct 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The amazing landscape, its history and variety.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
We added a couple of nights in Zaragoza to the vacation. It provided an opportunity to spend time in a Spanish city before heading into the mountains. Almost two vacations for one lot of flights. Be prepared to be blown away by the wonderful scenery. Don’t take other than casual clothes.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. Simon and Lucy have saved a very old local building and brought life to a tiny hamlet. They have employed local artisans for the restoration and as guides. They buy local produce and took us to local wine and olive oil producers to try and to buy. They also support the conservation of local wildlife.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
A fascinating week in an area where local knowledge made all the difference. The small group worked well, we were all able to hear the guides and get to places a larger group could not have accessed. It was all excellentGary Adamson review 27 Sep 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
It was all excellent the combination of hikes and cooking school was very well balanced and enjoyable.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Go with open mind and good hiking boots.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes most definitely Lucy and Simon taught us a lot about the local area4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
ExcellentCarole Hopper review 15 Jun 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Enjoyed the wonderful walks and cooking workshops I loved the way our days were fully organised2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Plan for warm weather and cooler nights Very casual dressing3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Most food was home grown Talks were given on geography of the area4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
A rewarding experience with perfect hosts Lucy and SimonPatrick Freeman review 5 May 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Afternoon lunching on Paella in the beautiful sunshine.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Exceeded expectationsHeike Oberg review 3 May 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The stunning location of Casa Allue as well as the genuine hospitality and passion of Lucy and Simon.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Enjoy the beauty of small things and go with the flow. It is a “bit of everything” vacation: bit of walking, bit of cooking, bit of culture. Be prepared for long days.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes to all. Most food was either grown by Lucy and Simon or from the region, local walking guides were used, we visited local and small scale food/vine producers, no food / leftovers were wasted.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Great vacation in beautiful landscape.Eva Akhurst review 3 May 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Walking in the Pyrenees. Watching vultures flying.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
The tour operator website has some information on walking distances and climb heights which is useful. We stayed a couple of extra days in Zaragoza as we were flying in and out of there. It’s a lovely city.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. Lucy and Simon make considerable effort to support local businesses especially ones which are environmentally conscious. We visited a local goats cheese farm run by a local couple.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent. The accommodation was excellent and the scenery stunning. Lucy and Simon are wonderful hosts who go to considerable effort to meet everyone’s individual requirements and preferences both with regard to food and activities.Chris Pryke review 2 May 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Seeing the vultures in flight and close up2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
They cover multiple activities so look carefully for what you would like to do3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes on all counts4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Absolutely SuperbMelanie Farquharson review 27 Oct 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Walking in the Pyrenees2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be ready for a busy week.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
To some degree, yes. It certainly supported the local culture.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Very good indeed. The hosts were wonderful.Joy Stodart review 3 Nov 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Walking in the Ordesa National Park was spectacular but all walks were marvellous and guided brilliantly by knowledgable hosts and local guides.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Fitness helps but being curious and flexible will ensure you get the best from the vacation.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, local guides were employed, local food and drink was used much of which was home grown, local businesses were supported.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
An extremely enjoyable vacation with great food, very comfortable accommodation and terrific hosts.Simone Lemstra review 26 Oct 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Walks in Pyrenees.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Good walking shoes.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, local guides used, environmentally-friendly small hotel, locally grown food.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Very nice vacation, knowledgeable and informative staff, fantastic location.Jude Bull review 13 Oct 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The goat farm, watching the amazing sheepdog herding the goats was great fun and so was tasting the cheese afterwards. Also the walks with Alberto, Simon and Lucy were special. Our knowledge of geology and vultures is greatly improved!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Go with an empty stomach, you will need plenty of capacity... Bring sturdy walking shoes.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely it did. The accommodation is in the middle of nowhere and all of the activities provided employment for locals. They are very much part of the local community using small vineyards, olive groves, the cheese farm and produce from local shops as well as growing their own fruit and veg. Simon and Lucy have great environmental credentials. I admired their no waste policy when it came to food (nothing went to waste during the cookery sessions) and the recycling and redeployment of everything possible was admirable right down to the solar power/heat pump technology used in the farmhouse.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent, will definitely be returning for one of their other activity breaks.Vicki Nash-Moore review 17 Sep 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
All of it. Wonderful hosts, fabulous location, stunning views, good food, great hikes , guides.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
It is a VERY active vacation. The hikes are moderate to somewhat difficult.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. Lucy and Simon are environmentally aware.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
10 out of 10 - far exceeded our expectations.Robert Raiswell review 15 Jul 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
A visit to a sanctuary to rescue damaged vultures. Amazing to see the size of these very special birds and appreciate the work of the sanctuary in looking after their welfare and supporting the populations outside through education and feeding programmes.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
The walks are not too long (typically around 5-6 miles) and aim to return in time for the cooking lessons in early evening. Be prepared for longish days, with early breakfasts (around 0730-0800) and late evening meals (2100 on). Only casual dress needed; just shorts and T-shirts are OK through the day and evening.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Very much so! Lucy and Simon have developed many partnerships with local enterprises trying to develop the quality of traditional food and wine production methods in a manner that is eco-friendly.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Really excellent. The hosts are very engaging and friendly and nothing is too much trouble for them. The food is excellent and the location superb.Roger Brignell review 14 Jul 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Seeing vultures and a visit to an artisan cheese maker.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
You need an open mind and a susceptibility to the enthusiasm and commitment of the hosts. They are amazing.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
It benefitted local people and supported conservation.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Stupendous.Carole Hopper review 1 Jun 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Enjoyed the wonderful walks and cooking workshops. I loved the way our days were fully organised2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Plan for warm weather and cooler nights. Very casual dressing3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Most food was home grown. Talks were given on geography of the area4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
A rewarding experience with perfect hosts Lucy and SimonRosie Pocock review 28 May 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
It was all really good - each day different, great fun and very packed. I took 3 books to read and managed 1 chapter of one book!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Don’t expect to lie in except for one day !3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes on all counts - Lucy and Simon are very environmentally aware and waste nothing + they grow virtually all their own veg and herbs. They are also involved with the conservation project around sustaining vultures in the Pyrenees- and while walking with them their knowledge of plants and the countryside in general is v impressive4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
FabulousFred review 26 May 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Far above expectations! We expected some in-between-like vacation: a bit of walking in the mountains, cooking classes, low-key, relaxing. What we got was: - walking in the most beautiful and impressive nature we have ever experienced - very pleasant and educational cooking lessons including basic techniques -great meals with wonderful wines But above all: the unique hospitality of Simon & Lucy: - we had a long list of things we prefer not to have on our plate: they totally respected that, and made us feel like this was effortless - they perfectly take into account the preferences of each individual in the group - they are incredibly generous: unlimited enjoyment of wonderful meals, quality wines and anything you wish for - they have enough experience to know exactly what the guests need every day at the activities, but at the same time they radiate that they still fully enjoy receiving guests2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Don't hesitate: this is exactly what you are looking for!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Simon and Lucy are focused on that in everything4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Again: Far above expectations!Judy Ainger review 15 May 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The most impressive aspect of this vacation was the attention to detail of special dietary needs, which I was most grateful for. Also, we both enjoyed walking in the Ordesa National Park and seeing bearded vultures in Revilla. The Casa Alue site itself is a memorable conversion and a wonderful base.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Expect a full programme, but don't be afraid to opt out if you want or need to. Simon and Lucy will be very willing to adjust things to suit what you can or cannot do. Expect to be inspired and interested by Simon and Lucy's evident love of, and enthusiasm for, all aspects of the place they live in.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Emphatically yes to all three. We ate locally - most of which was grown by Simon and Lucy. Local guides were used to take us on some excursions. Local small organisations were involved in visits. Conservation groups that deal with the reintroduction of birds of prey are supported by them.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
ExcellentMarcelle Hall review 12 May 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The location and activities plus the welcome from the hosts2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Go ready to learn lots of new things and ready to enjoy walks and activities.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. We had local guides. Visited local food / wine producers. Ate home grown organic food and learned a lot about the geology, flora and fauna of the area.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent. Exceeded expectationsJoanne Hill review 11 May 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The stunning location of the farmhouse and the amazing renovation that Simon and Lucy have done. Such a peaceful and relaxing base for the vacation.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Book it, you won't regret it! It is a well thought out itinerary with a good mix of walking, sightseeing and cooking.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The trip involved visits to local food producers, a local winery, a local restaurant. The guide for the walks was local. All food and wine served was from local sources. The operator is definitely contributing positively to the local economy, environment and conservation4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Wonderful scenery, lovely hosts, stunning restoration of the old farmhouseMartha Alleguen review 9 Oct 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
High mountain walks to see vultures;2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Please read the information carefully. The accommodation is remote - bring walking boots. Be aware that the cooking is primarily a `fun session` rather than cordon bleu - The walking was slow-paced and suitable for most abilities.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes - local produce, local guides were used and we visited local artisan concerns. - goat /cheese farm- local winery and restaurant4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Era Farnsworth review 3 Nov 2021
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
I loved being in the gorgeous Pyrenees. It felt as we were on top of the world, the beautiful mountains, rocks, trees turning color (late October), the giant soaring birds, the incredibly clear skies and freshest air.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Take some long or longish hikes in good hiking boots to prepare. Lucy and Simon provide pretty much everything else you need and they will send you a short list of items to bring. They even lent us hiking sticks.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, the guides were local, and fantastic; the food, I'm sure, was local -- some of it from their vegetable garden. They seemed as concerned about conservation and preserving the environment as we are, and we are pretty obsessed with the subject.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
This is a wonderful opportunity to deeply experience the Pyrenees in a relatively short time. Lucy and Simon and their guides know so much about the area and are so generous with their knowledge. I don't think it is possible to do this vacation on your own, unless you were to live in the Pyrenees for several years.Neil Paveley review 1 Nov 2021
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Stunning location, great accommodation with very clean rooms, good food and wonderful hosts.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Just relax and enjoy.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We met with local cheese makers, a winery, used local restaurants/suppliers and used local guides. A large effort was made by Simon and Lucy, the property owners, to reduce environmental impact - from the methods used to heat the property to the way waste was dealt with.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
A great experience, highly recommendedJim Holmes review 16 Oct 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
How expertly Lucy and Simon planned our activities, choose our guides and related to the local people. The activities were so great it is impossible to pick just one.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be prepared for limited internet access and just enjoy being mostly unplugged. Wear good hiking boots.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. Simon and Lucy tried very hard to find sustainable solutions and sourced many supplies from small local producers.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Fantastic. We have been independent travelers for many years. This among our best vacations ever.Margy Britton review 13 Oct 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Walking the near the top of the Pyrenees2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Book it! Be prepared for a vacation packed with fun, good food, history, spectacular scenery and great hosts.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Very eco-friendly and utilised local people, services and attractions.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Best vacation ever!Anne Rogers review 23 Sep 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Spectacular views & great hospitality. Nothing was too much trouble.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Good walking boots were essential as the terrain was quite rugged. Apart from that, be prepared to go with the flow!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely. The guide employed for our walks was a local expert on the area, we visited 2 small local cheese producers & our hosts were very environmentally aware in every aspect of recycling, re-using & growing their own organic vegetables4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellentvictoria taylor review 13 May 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The warm generous hospitality of the family who run the trip and the peace and beauty of the place that they have so tastefully renovated. The laughs we all had cooking some of our meals.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Just choose which activity suits you and BOOK. I am definetly going back.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definetly. It gives locals work using them as walking guides, teachers and specialists such as ornithologists. Also you visit local small businesses such as goats cheese making and olive oil bottling.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Absolutely 100% brilliant and would give 10 stars if I could.Paul Brown review 22 Oct 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
We had 2 guided walks and the one in the Ordessa Valley up in the heights was amazing.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
It's quite a remote area so a fair bit of driving to get to things if you want to see the national parks etc Ask a question and Lucy and Simon will know the answers, or find it out for you, very knowledgeable and experienced. The hosts like to pay attention to every detail to give you the best vacation so when they ask for height and width it's not to set the calorific value of the food it's so they match you to the best bedroom configuration. They really listen to what you want and try to give the best experience. Note no TV. They have lots of books!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Very good. We were on a cooking and walking trip and it exceeded our expectations to include wine tasting, beer making, local history, supermarket visit, castles, apple pressings, bird watching, animal spotting, amazing waterfalls, honeyman, coffees, local restaurants, bird watching, gardening, fine food and and and.Vivienne Blandford review 28 Sep 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The stunning scenery and the geological explanations and guidance provided by Lucy2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be prepared to be bowled over by hospitality, ambience and experience3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes with introduction to local, small scale producers of honey, olive oil, cheese and world class wines. Coupled with using local guides with a passion for the environment.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent, travelled solo but hope to come back with family and friends.Kim Caldwell review 17 Sep 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The lovely restored 17th century home was in a beautiful location with great hikes in the surrounding hills and also in the spectacular Ordessa national park. Our hosts were great, catering to a group with different abilities and fitness levels, ensuring that we enjoyed all aspects of the vacation.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Relax and enjoy the great scenery and freshest produce.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Our hosts were very environmentally aware, reusing building materials in the renovated house, recycling and composting, growing much of the produce used in the cooking classes and for our meals. Other produce was sourced from small local growers and local markets. They have a policy of employing only local guides and drivers.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Absolutely fabulous. The highlight of our trip to Spain.Peggy Poole review 17 Sep 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Discovering the incredible beauty of the Pyrenees. Great walks planned by Simon and Lucy with delicious picnic lunch to enjoy along the way.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Relax and leave all planning to Simon and Lucy. Wonderful walks and then back to prepare dinners.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely benefited local people. Visited local cheese maker, beekeeper, vineyard and more.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Simon and Lucy incredibly thoughtful hosts in beautiful setting. Great food, eating out on patio, meeting local people and wonderful walking. Vacation couldn’t have been better!Diane Hall review 18 May 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
First class. Lucy and Simon could not have been more helpful and accommodating and so knowledgeable.Anna Avery review 14 May 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Watching bearded & gryphon vultures flying in the foothills of the Pyrenees. Brilliant guide, fabulous scenery, not difficult walking.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Contact Lucy or Simon if you have any questions- always helpful. Be honest about your fitness level for the walking3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. The guides were local people & the products used in food preparation were local too. The owners were very aware of environmental issues & supported conservation projects.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
A good mix of walking/cooking/geology/local culture and all in a quiet place: lovely scenery & very friendly companyMike Smith review 30 Oct 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Meeting a great bunch of like minded people on our trip including our hosts. The mix of activities we did worked really well, not just the cooking and walking but also everything else we managed to do including wine tasting, visiting the olive oil co-operative, evening visits to local historical town, and more. The walking for me was a bit special as we had a very high return for our efforts with respect to views, and great info from our enthusiastic guides and great company in amazing weather!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
If you go at this time of year, be adaptable with respect to temperature as you will need sun cream and shorts in the sun, but layers in the evening and shade. In the bottom of steep valleys such as Odessa, you will be in the shade for some of the time and it will be chilly when you are. Speak to Simon and Lucy with any requests or concerns- they are very adaptable and accommodating to each persons needs as well as the groups.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely. Several different guides were used, and local produce. Part of the cooking included selecting product from the garden. One of the walks we did was focused on seeing the Bearded and Griffin Vultures and how the community including our hosts are supporting the reintroduction of the bearded vultures (which we got great views of).4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Not just an excellent vacation but also a great experience.Una Carter review 7 May 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The beauty of the landscape, the freshness of the air, delicious food and invigorating walks. I could go on.....2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Very important to come prepared for changes in weather, although we had been told that anyway. But it may mean being flexible with regard to the itinerary. Warning - the food is so good you could put on weight!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Very much so. Lucy and Simon have employed local people to help renovate the house and as drivers, guides and teachers. This is ongoing. They are passionate about wildlife and the environment and get involved with local projects so are well known in the area as people who care. They are also very knowledgeable about the area, its history, geography, geology, etc, which made it all the more interesting.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
It was wonderful. I feel very much refreshed after it and it is heartening to know such places exist. Lucy and Simon have just the right balance of friendliness and professionalism and seem to have thought of everything in terms of what guests might need. Can I just say, I would certainly give this a 5 but I think your choice of comment could be better. There are many different types of vacation so, for example, it would be hard to compare it with a trip to the Antarctic or the jungle. So 'best vacation ever' is not really appropriate in my view!Asma Abu-Taleb review 7 Nov 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The hikes were enjoyable with beautiful scenery all along2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Expect not to have free time3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
This was an environment friendly vacation for sure, our hosts are in a small community which means relying on local people most of the time.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Very well planned and organized vacation and a feeling of living with a family, truly a memorable vacation.Deb Mickle review 16 Oct 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The location of this stunning and natural area in the Aragon Pyrenees with very contrasted hiking trails . The national parks had such a diverse range of shorter trails with historic routes chapels, bridges and hermitages. Superb hosts Simon & Lucy and accommodation and amenities that exceeded my expectations can not be faulted . Food for all meals was outstanding. The combination of walking and cooking was a perfect blend . I learnt so much about this area and gained an appreciation of geology . I now have a great spanish cooking repertoire and learnt lots of handy hints2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Highly recommended. Great for solo travelers. Be prepared to be active . This location is also great if you feel like a non active day-off .3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Certainly as local guides used in addition to Lucy & Simon , We visited local businesses and cafes, artisan food product makers and places you would never discover if doing your own itinerary and travel plans.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
EXCEPTIONAL. Exceeded my expectations on so many levels. From the quality of accommodation and attention to detail with all aspects of the week . From being picked up at train station and being greeted by Simon with cooler in van with water & refreshments on hand to every day being a great adventure and exploration of the Aragon region.Clare Cotton review 12 Oct 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Breathtaking canyon walks far exceeding my imagination. Not forgetting having the experience of a lifetime as two Lamagayers (bearded cultures with 3metre wingspan) glided past me just a couple of metres away. Amazing.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Just book it. Simon and Lucy are such great hosts that they will adapt the vacation so you make the most of it.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes all of the above.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Brilliant. I couldn't fault it. Cooking and walking both superb.Holiday Reviews
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