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Seven-day trek based in refugios. INTRODUCTION The Picos de Europa is a region of limestone peaks reaching over 2500 metres above sea level; the highest being Torre de Cerredo at 2650 metres. The route described here is one that I hiked alone in early summer. The best time to tackle the route is between June and September. There is more likely to be snow on the high passes in early June but they are usually not to difficult to negotiate. The Picos de Europa is not as well known as the Pyrenees or Alps and as such the hiker traffic is less and the tourist infrastructure is less developed. This makes the area feel less spoilt but it can also make it a more challenging area to explore with fewer trails and little to no signposting. Always take a map with you: the Editorial Alpina 1:25,000 maps are the best. I took these and also used the outdooractive app and downloaded the relevant map tiles. This is useful for pinpointing where you are, in what can be confusing terrain. I was lucky to have clear weather for my entire trek but I would imagine that it's pretty difficult to navigate when the cloud is down on the mountains so take a compass too. You can stay in refugios every night on this hike and wild camping is permitted above 1500m; details below. I can't recommend the Picos de Europa as a hiking destination enough. The mountains are magnificent but there are also beautiful extensive woodlands at lower altitudes, as well as meadows full of wildflowers and butterflies. The juxtaposition between the stark limestone peaks and the gentle greenery of the valleys is beguiling. DISCLAIMER: Please note that hiking in the Picos de Europa is not risk free. It is a very challenging area in which to hike. I accept no responsibility for any accidents you may experience while hiking this route. You are responsible for your own safety. Some of the dangers and difficulties are listed a little further down this guide. HOW BUSY? Unlike some of the more well know hikes around Europe this trail is less well trodden and as such the trail can be quite hard to follow at times, and at other times there is no trail! Despite this, refugios, being small, fill up fast (see below). REFUGIOS The hike is made easier if you stay in the staffed refugios where you can recharge your metaphorical batteries. Accommodation at these mountain huts is in communal dormitories and you will need to bring your own sleeping bag. It's best to book ahead as they are often full throughout the summer. Prices are around the €12-17 mark and they also do affordable meals (breakfast, picnic lunch and dinner). There is also a handful of unstaffed, very basic mountain shelters with no services and no beds but these can be a good option in an emergency. Most of the refugios only accept cash so be sure to take plenty with you before you set off as there are no ATMs! All the refugios on the route are listed in the route description below with website links. WILD CAMPING Camping is only permitted at 1500m above sea level or higher. There is not much water anywhere above this altitude so be sure to fill up when you get the chance (at refugios) before camping in a remote spot. POSADA DE VALDEON This beautiful village tucked in the valley between the Macizo Central and Macizo Occidental is a lovely place to wander for a few hours. At the centre of the village there are a number of restaurants and bars and a small square with a water fountain. If you need somewhere to stay before or after the trek you'll find hotels, guest houses and a youth hostel. There is a hotel recommendation and link in the route description. In the centre of the village is a pharmacy should you need any blister plasters! And on the road to the west of the village is the National Park office where you can find information about hiking and anything else to do with the national park. GETTING THERE From the UK there are Ryanair flights to Oviedo (Asturias airport) from London Stansted. A bit further afield you can get flights to Bilbao and Santander from the UK and the rest of Europe. Getting from the airport is a little complicated but there are buses to Posada de Valdeón from Oviedo changing in Cangas de Onis. The journey takes about 4.5hrs. There are also buses from Santander and Bilbao changing in Llanes and Riaño with the journey taking around 15hrs from Bilbao. An easier but more expensive option is to get a taxi. You could also hire a car but of course you will have to leave the car sitting idle in Posada de Valdeón while you do the hike. FLORA & FAUNA This area of northern Spain is fantastic for wildlife. At lower elevations the beech and sessile oak woodland stretches for miles over rolling hills. This is part of the boreal forest that once would have covered much of Europe and is home to roe deer, wild boar, red squirrels, pine martens and brown bears. In the skies you have a good chance of seeing griffon vultures, golden, booted and short-toed eagles, black kites and peregrines. Of the smaller passerine species the Picos are home to red-backed shrikes, black redstarts, spotted flycatchers and black woodpeckers. But it's the wildflowers in the meadows and on the woodland edges that are the real joy and most easily appreciated. Vetches, cinquefoils and orchids create a colourful patchwork of colours with butterflies bringing the whole scene to life. Look out for swallowtails, fritillaries and hairstreaks. NAVIGATION Navigation is difficult as the terrain can be confusing and in many places there is no trail whatsoever. Take a map (1:25K Editiorial Alpina maps are the best), compass and GPS and know how to use them. It's also a good idea to download the map on a relevant map app. I used the outdooractive app but others are available. WEATHER Thunderstorms are common, usually in the afternoon and these can be particularly dangerous high up in the mountains. It's best to hike early and get to a refugio by lunchtime if there are afternoon thunderstorms in the forecast. The weather in this part of Spain is very changeable as it has a maritime climate. Rain and thick fog are possible but equally long periods of warm sunshine are not unusual. The best advice I can offer is to be prepared for anything. Pack suncream and a sunhat but don't forget your waterproofs either. FALLING ROCKS Rock falls are not unusual as chamois and other hikers can dislodge rocks above you. Getting caught in a rockfall is not so common but not impossible. Be aware and if you see rocks heading your way, and cannot find cover, crouch down on the floor and pull your rucksack over your head and back. DRINKING WATER There is very little running water as these mountains are mostly comprised of permeable limestone. You will need to take plenty of water with you each day (I packed three litres every day and usually drank it all). You can fill up at the refugios and there are a few fountains / fuentes although most of the ones I saw marked on the Editorial Alpina map were dry when I found them. THE SUN Sunburn and sunstroke are both real dangers and there is little shade. Keep hydrated and wear a sun hat that covers your neck. TERRAIN In some places you need to scramble up steep rocky sections. You will need to have experience in this kind of terrain and have a head for heights! The terrain is very rocky and uneven at higher altitudes so you will need strong, sturdy footwear. Trekking poles are also invaluable in providing support and helping you across and up awkward sections. There is also a lot of steep ascent and descent on this route so you will need to be reasonably fit. DANGEROUS ANIMALS On many parts of the trail you will encounter cows. In my experience they are very docile and used to trekkers so they shouldn't be of any concern. You may also find flocks of sheep and while these aren't dangerous they are often accompanied by shepherd dogs which have been trained to keep intruders away from the flock. They can be quite intimidating when they start barking at you. If you see sheep ahead it is best to give them a wide berth, even if this means veering away from the trail for a while. If you walk directly towards or through a flock of sheep you risk agitating the shepherd dogs. Bears are not common in the Picos de Europa but there are bears in other parts of the Cantabrian Mountains, notably Somiedo National Park, not far to the west, and there is always the possibility of seeing an itinerant bear wandering through the Picos. Eurasian brown bears are not as big nor aggressive as the grizzly bears of North America so you shouldn't worry too much about an encounter. It's extremely unlikely you will see one so if you do, consider yourself very lucky. Wild boar are common in the woodlands at lower altitudes. They are not as aggressive as some people will tell you and tend to be nocturnal. I did see some in the daytime near Vegabaño. As soon as they saw me they ran away, crashing through the undergrowth. As with any large animal it's best to simply give them plenty of space to move away from you. I hope none of this advice puts you off hiking in the Picos de Europa. Yes, it's a challenging mountain area but the rewards for hiking here are great. Enjoy the hike!

5 Days in Iceland for 350€, how is it possible? This map is massive and information intensive, and goes well beyond our 5 days. It contains more than 150 places all around Iceland and includes: - How to see and prepare for the Aurora Borealis - All the itinerary of our 350€, 5 days budget trip (note: flight was included in the price). - Must see natural wonders - Places for summer hiking / camping - Hostels and Guesthouses (for winter) - Grocery shops and supply stores - Game of Thrones locations The guide however, includes options for both Winter months to have a glimpse of the Aurora or Summer hikes to explore the highlands of Iceland. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Guide Contains the following sections: 1. Preparation 2. Northern Lights 3. Our 350€ Itinerary - Day 1 - Day 2 - Day 3 - Day 4 - Day 5 Extra: Ring Road - Nature (along the ring road) - Nature (summer crossing only) - Nice Viewpoints - Accommodation: Huts & Camping Grounds - Accommodation: BnB & Guesthouses - Game of Thrones Locations - Tiny Houses and Villages - Hot Springs & Beaches - Animal Colonies - Caves, Canyons & Ravines - Culture, Shops & Museums ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

5 budgets, all areas... so you have options for all the places you want to visit. I often like to do several nights in budget stays, then choose a couple of places I'd like to splash out on towards the end of a trip, when I want to relax more than dash around seeing sites! Sri Lanka is spoilt for choice when it comes to sites, activities and accommodation and you can easily become over whelmed by the options which is why I encourage you to make full use of this guide and save yourself valuable time and energy.

A day to day itinerary with what to do and see, accommodation recommendations for every budget and travel style and spots to eat as well as hidden gems. The roadtrip sarts in Queenstown and includes stops on the way to the West Coast and all the way up to Westport. Explore the rugged and wild coastline, waterfalls and rainforest, glaciers, windswept beaches or a geological wonder reminding of a pancake stack. Find your own pounamu (greestone), go gold panning and discover mining relics. The guide comes with an interactive map showing you all the places and is compatible with the phone so that you can have the guide always with you. As the weather is unpredictable on the West Coast you can always decide whether to stay longer or shorter in one place. With my guide you won't be short on options. Have a great roadtrip!

Winter in California’s Eastern Sierras is a wonderland of snowy peaks, natural hot springs, scenic viewpoints, and cozy mountain towns perfect for adventurers and relaxation-seekers alike. This itinerary (with 100+ spots) takes you through some of the region’s best highlights, from breathtaking viewpoints like Mono Lake’s surreal formations & snowy Convict Lake, to soothing hot springs tucked in peaceful valleys. Enjoy exhilarating days on the slopes at Mammoth Mountain and Heavenly, then unwind at charming lodges and savor hearty meals in rustic eateries. Whether you're here to ski, soak, sightsee, or savor local flavors, this Eastern Sierras winter itinerary promises a memorable alpine escape. Unlock this guide for access to: ❄️ Viewpoints & Points of Interest ♨️ Hot Springs ⛷️ Ski Resorts 🛌 Accommodations 🍽 Places to eat (breakfast, lunch + dinner options) ❗️ Complimentary future updates *Please Note: Make the most of your road trip by planning accordingly for snowy weather so you can focus on having fun. Carry chains & a winter weather kit in your vehicle to remove snow, stay warm, and have plenty of extra food & water. And, of course, always plan your trip around clear weather and driving conditions.

Ella is a picturesque town surrounded by mountains and valleys. It’s a hub for a wide range of activities in Sri Lanka and because of it’s higher elevation it remains warm but comfortable year round and offers some respite from the rest of the country which can get stiflingly hot in season, or see a lot of rain out of season. Almost every person I met travelling in Sri Lanka remarked Ella was their favourite place they visited during their trip and I have to say it was also mine. The temperate weather makes Ella a great place to do lots of activities each day -you can go hiking, enjoy one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, view Nine Arch Bridge, swim in waterfalls, go caving and swim in underground cave pools, take yoga classes, cooking classes, visit temples, and venture a little further for safaris. It’s an ideal spring board between Colombo and the South/East Coast and Yala National Park. The best way to arrive in Ella is by train from Kandy or Nuwara Eliya, but as one of the most beautiful train journey's in the world, you will need to book your train tickets in advance... my advice is to go for 2nd class- find out why, and how to book them in the "What To Do" section of this guide. Read on for all my recommendations on where to stay, what to do and where to eat for a FABULOUS time in Ella!

2022 was the year of a lot of travel redemption for most of us, but it was also the year I had to turn down trips to Portugal, Spain, and Paris, as well as have a trip to New Orleans cancelled due to Covid. But thankfully that didn’t stop me from a spring road trip to Texas, a few summer days in DC, two trips to Disney World, and lots of Tennessee day trips in between. Enjoy this travel journal of 350 (!!!) places, including: 🖼️ 42 Museums, Gardens, and Attractions ☕️ 50 Coffee Shops 🍽️ 99 Restaurants, Bakeries, and Food Trucks 🛏️ 38 Hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, and Airbnbs ✨ and a whole bunch more! Scroll to the bottom for my favorites of the year!

Mammoth Lakes, California, is a hiker's paradise nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains. While many think of Mammoth as just a ski town, it offers incredible adventures year-round! This guide will take you through the best 22 hikes in the area, providing tips, maps, and essential information to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure. Explore stunning alpine lakes and rugged mountain peaks on trails suitable for all levels. Plus, find the perfect place to stay with comprehensive accommodation recommendations, including campsites, Airbnb, VRBO, and hotel options. Dive into the ultimate adventure guide and discover why Mammoth Lakes is a must-visit for hikers and nature lovers alike! What You'll Find Inside » Best Time To Visit » Visitor Center Information » Best Hikes in Mammoth Lakes » Where to Stay           » Camping           » Airbnb & VRBO           » Hotels » Where to Eat & Drink           » Breakfast, Cafes, & Coffee Shops           » Lunch & Dinner           » Breweries and Distilleries

Embark on a journey of unparalleled tropical wonder with our Virgin Islands Explorer's Map. Set your sights on the turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lush landscapes that define the essence of the Caribbean. Whether you're an adventurous soul seeking hidden coves, a history buff tracing the footsteps of pirates, or a sunseeker looking to unwind, this meticulously curated map is your compass to the ultimate Caribbean experience.

200+ Must Visit places in Seoul, Korea.

Door County, Wisconsin

No need to go to Starbucks or Dunkin’ while in New York City. Here's a random list of places to go instead. (Will constantly be updated). Instagram: @caffeine_nyc