Love walking, hate admin? Contours Walking Holidays take the hassle out of organising a long-distance trekking adventure – leaving you free to focus on the joys of the open trail.
They are two sides of the same coin. Walking a long-distance trail is all about freedom, fresh air and stress-free escapism; the best of times. But organising your trekking holiday will, most likely, be a torrent of infuriating admin, tedious phone calls and mind-numbing emails; the worst of times.
Wouldn’t it be great if you could enjoy the trek, but skip the logistical headaches? How much better would it be if you could maximise the adventure, but minimise the admin? You want real mountains, not mountains of paperwork, right?
Well, there is a way. Simply let Contours Walking Holidays tackle the admin burden, so all you need to do is tackle the trail.
Set up in 1996, the well-respected holiday firm – which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 rating across almost 2,000 independently verified reviews on Feefo – has been providing unforgettable adventures in the British countryside for almost three decades.
Specialising in self-guided walking holidays, Contours is ideal for ‘experienced newcomers’ – the kind of people who love day walking, can confidently organise their own simple hikes in the countryside, but feel a bit daunted about a multi-day, long-distance trek. They don’t quite know where to start with it all, but they’re eager to explore more and expand their horizons.
Contours is here to take this stress away and add peace of mind to your first long-distance trekking experience. Whether you want to hike the Cleveland Way or the South Downs Way, the tour company arranges all of the logistics that come with a point-to-point adventure, including luggage transportation, nightly accommodation, maps and guidebooks, and 24/7 phone support.
Contours’ staff also have in-depth knowledge of all the trails, so you’re sure to benefit from their expert insights and experience.
From the Scottish Highlands to the coastal majesty of Cornwall, and almost everywhere else in-between, there are a myriad of walking holidays you can choose from with Contours.
Some favourite linear walks include the Yorkshire Wolds Way, John Muir Way and Norfolk Coast Path, while top-rated circular routes include the Three Dales Way, Cotswold Round and Lakeland Round. Whichever one you choose, here’s what you can expect from Contours Walking Holidays’ bespoke service.
5 ways Contours Walking Holidays takes the hassle out of organising a long-distance trail
With Contours arranging all of the logistics – including luggage, accommodation and mapping – there’ll be zero stress with your next long-distance walking adventure.
Here’s exactly how the tour operator takes the admin load off your shoulders, leaving you free to enjoy the freedom of the trail.
1. Choosing the best trail for you – with bespoke tailoring to your needs
Contours’ extensive range of holidays is sure to spark some inspiration, helping you and your group to pick out a trek that will suit your fitness levels, availability and travel goals. Plus, the itinerary can be further tailored to your needs. Fancy an extra night in a particular town? No problem. Want to walk only a portion of a route? Consider it done.
The opportunities are endless with Contours. On top of this, the itinerary isn’t regimented or inflexible. You’re free to walk at your own pace, add detours as you please, and choose where to eat along the way.
2. No backachingly-heavy rucksacks – your luggage transfers are sorted
A heavy backpack laden with clothes, toiletries and food will do only one thing – ruin your hiking experience. The miles will come slower, your legs will feel like lead, and you back will ache like there’s no tomorrow.
But not on a Contours holiday. All you need to carry is a small, joyously light daypack with a few items, while your overnight suitcases will be transported every day to your accommodation. Arrive at your B&B and your bags will be there waiting for you, as if by magic.
3. Every night’s accommodation will be booked for you – with breakfast included
From quaint B&Bs to boutique hotels, Contours will book each night’s accommodation for you along the trail, meaning at the end of each hard day’s hiking, a hot shower, cosy fireplace and indulgent bed will be waiting for you. How indulgent!
If your accommodation is off-trail, fear not. You don’t need to worry about the extra miles of a detour – Contours’ staff will give you lifts whenever required. And, better still, after a good night’s rest, each morning will begin with a hearty breakfast to get your day off to the best possible start.
4. You won’t be getting lost – all navigational tasks are catered for
Contours provides all of the maps, guidebooks, route notes and directions you will need to follow the trail, minimising the risk of any navigational mishaps.
Plus, with almost three decades of experience on these trails, Contours are experts at highlighting the places where a little extra concentration is needed. The route notes are comprehensive, taking the hassle out of each day’s walk.
5. Need an extra helping hand? There’s 24/7 support when you need it
Contours prides itself on going the extra mile (pun intended) to help its customers. That’s why the tour operator has a friendly office open from 9am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday, and an emergency out-of-hours phone line available 24/7. So if you ever need a helping hand with advice, tips or problem-solving, someone is always there for you.
To book your next adventure visit the Contours Walking Holidays website.