Two Continents Walking Holiday
In
Greek mythology, Hercules slayed the giant Anteus and married his
beautiful widow Tingis. In celebration, Hercules pulled Europe and
Africa apart using the peaks of Jebel -Tarif
(Gibraltar) and Jebel - Musa for
handgrips. Ever after, these mountains have been known as the Pillars
of Hercules |
| The
Pillars are a a major feature of our unique holiday with
walks high above the Mediterranean in both continents, plus two days
walking in the Rif mountains. Our
stays in Tarifa and Chefchaouen,
and visits to Tangier and Tetouen are
full of atmosphere and interest. The two hotels we use are great places
to stay and experience the fascinating and contrasting cultures of Europe
and Africa. |
|
Itinerary |
|
Day 1 - To Tarifa
The holiday starts in Gibratar
but it is also possible to start in Malaga. The Spanish border is just
a stones throw away from Gibraltar airport and the transfer to Tarifa
isthen less than an hour by road. The transfer fom Malaga is longer and
takes about two hours. Our hotel in Tarifa is built within the
fortified walls of this old Arabic Spanish town, the most southerly in
Europe. The hotel Alameda is our base for two nights
and we return for the final night of the adventure.. |
 |
 |
Day
2 - Sierra de Bujeo
Our first walk starts to
the east of Tarifa. We take a pretty, shady path that follows the Rio
de los Mujeres through the cork oaks of Los Alcornocales and
up to the ridge of Bujeo. Here we have a picnic lunch with far reaching
views across the Straights to Jebel Musa and, on a fine day,
the Rif mountains beyond. The walk along the ridge is easy
and the descent to El Bujeo is gentle .
Walking
time 5 Hours |
Day 3 - To Africa
After an early breakfast
we take the fast ferry from the quayside close to our hotel in Tarifa
to Tangier. Our first taste
of Africa and transfer to a tiny village close to the border into the
Spanish enclave of Ceuta. The village has a pretty beach at
the foot of the towering mountain known as Jebel Musa. We
take a coastal path that then climbs up to a pass with spectacular
views back to Europe. The less energetic may choose to shorten the walk
and enjoy a swim and lunch on grilled fish on the beach.
Walking time - 4 Hours
After the walk we
transfer by road to Chefchaouen where we stay for
four nights. |
|
|
|
|
|
Day 4 - Back in time
After a breakfast of
fresh orange, crepes and honey our walk takes us through the
west gate of the medina and back into the past. We see fully
laden donkeys heading for the weekly market and Berber ladies
tending the pastures. The menfolk and boys herd the goats and look
after the the fields. Our walk passes through pretty countryside and
villages that have changed little since medieval times .Our return
route climbs up to the pine covered hills high above 'Chaouen with
great views of the town. We get back to the sumptious roof terrace of
our hotel for refreshments and time to reflect on a special day. |
|
|
Day 5 - A day in 'Chaouen
"Chefchaouen is one
of the most beautiful towns of Morocco and hangs like a crescent from
the twin horns of Jebel Tisouka (2,050m) and Jebel Megou (1,616m). The
medina, a mass of red tiled roofs crisp white and blue washed walls is
a precious 15th century relic from the civilision of al -Andalus"
Our exceptional accommodation within the medina is a
masterpiece of Moroccan interior design and a great place to stay in
this unique, colorful and friendly town. The souk and bazaars
are full of enticing hand made goods and there is a photgraphic 'gem'
at every turn of the eye. A day to explore, relax and enjoy. |
|
|
|
 |
 |
Day
6 - Akchour and Gods Bridge
The scenic drive to Akchour
is an hour but well worth it. In the Spring our walk rises slowly up
from the river Ourd Farda to the Berber village of Oudslef
and into the rugged scenery of the gorge. We get first sight of the
natural arch of red sandstone 200 feet above the river. In the Autumn,
our walk may allow us to walk the river valley and view the 'bridge'
from below.
Walking time 4 - 5 Hours |
Day
7 - Back to Europe
Mororoccan time is two hours behind Spanish time. This shortens the day
but we do have time for a visit to the fascinating Hispanic/Arabic city
of Tetoun on route back to Spain. The Tetouanis claim
they are true heirs of al-Andalus and affectionately call
their city 'the daughter of Granada'. After an extended walking tour of
the souks and medina we have lunch before continuing by road to
Tangier. We take the late afternoon ferry back to Tarifa and stay for
the last night in our hotel within the walls of the old town.
|
|
Day
8 - Buen Viaje
After a farewell
breakfast, guests transfer to Gibraltar, Malaga or follow their own
onward travel plans. |
|
Foto Album
Click here for comments on
the holiday
|
|
|
Spring
2012
Sat June 9 -16
£695 per person *
|
|
|
Autumn 2012
Reserved
for groups
|
|
What is included:-
- 3 Nights hotel accommodation in Tarifa in a double/ twin room with
ensuite*
- 4 Nights accommodation in Chefchaouen in a double/ twin single room
with ensuite*
- Breakfasts
- Evening meals with drinks (excluding rest day.)
- Guided walks with transfers to trail heads.
- Travel costs including ferry Tarifa -Tangier and return, and
transport in Morocco.
- Airport transfers at specified times from Gibraltar airport and
return (see note).
* All hotel room are doubles. The supplement for single occupancy of
rooms is £125 per week. |
NB The holiday starts and ends at Gibraltar airport and
includes transfers to and from Tarifa. We can also
arrange transfers from and back to Malaga airport but there may be a
small extra charge. For further travel information please click on Travel
& booking information
|
