Epic Travel Tribe

Now just one female place available! Please RSVP on the main trip page here.

Join us for an Epic Adventure in Greece to climb the legendary Mt Olympus, Mountain of the Gods, and hike among the spectacular scenery of Meteora!

Nights - 8. Group size - 16. Cost - £749. Accommodation - see below.

This trip is a truly diverse adventure, combining two Greek highlights - summiting the highest mountain in Greece, and hiking in stunning Meteora - with a bonus visit to a fascinating archaeological site and a well deserved beach day at the end.

From Thessaloniki airport, we travel to the small Northern Greek town of Vergina, where we will have time to visit the Archaeological Site of Aigai.

We then make our way to Meteora, known for its byzantine monasteries perched on top of steep rocks. Hiking among the stone giants of this spectacular area, we will have the opportunity to explore the most impressive viewpoints and ancient monasteries.

After these warm up hikes, we will be ready for our main goal of the trip, trekking to Mt Olympus, the 'Mountain of the Gods'. Our challenging 4-day hut-to-hut trek will take us not only to Greece’s highest peak, but will allow us to explore some spectacular off the beaten track trails in the surrounding mountains.

Our trip will finish off with some well deserved relaxing beach time in the lovely seaside town of Plaka where we will have the opportunity for a refreshing swim.

ACCOMMODATION:

Accommodation on this trip will be a combination of twin share rooms in hotels (3 nights), shared dorm rooms in mountain huts (3 nights) and twin share bungalows (2 nights).

ITINERARY:

Sat 27/09 - Pick up from Thessaloniki airport at noon (for flights arriving by 11:35AM), transfer to our hotel in Vergina, visit the Archaeological Site of Aigai.

Sun 28/09 - Transfer to our hotel in Meteora where we spend two nights, afternoon hike with monastery visit.

Mon 29/09 - Hiking and exploring Meteora with monastery visit.

Tue 30/09 - Transfer to Prionia, start of Mt Olympus trek, hike to Agapitos hut.

Wed 01/10 - Hike to Apostolidis hut, ascent Mt Olympus peak (only with day pack).

Thu 02/10 - Hike on the Plateau of the Muses and surrounding mountains.

Fri 03/10 - Hike down to Litochoro village. Transfer to our seaside accommodation where we spend our last two nights.

Sat 04/10 - Free day to enjoy the beach!

Sun 05/10 - Transfer to Thessaloniki airport (leaving our accommodation around 8:30/9AM) for flights leaving from 12:30 onwards.

Please note this itinerary is subject to change based on weather and other factors.

DIFFICULTY:

Hikes during the Mt Olympus part of the trip will be challenging with significant elevation to be tackled and this trip is therefore only suitable for fit and experienced hikers with a head for heights. You should be comfortable walking with a full pack on rough, rocky and uneven terrain and on sometimes narrow and exposed paths. You will need the fitness to cover around 12 km with up to 1200m of ascent and up to 1600m descent in a day. Hikes during the Meteora part will be of medium difficulty.

NOTE ABOUT SUMMITTING MT OLYMPUS:

Mount Olympus has multiple peaks and (weather permitting) our guide can take us as far as the popular summits of Skala Peak at 2,882m or Skolio Peak, the second highest peak at 2,911m, as the ascent to these peaks is not technical.

The final section from Skala Peak to the highest peak of Mytikas at 2,917m is however an exposed, graded scramble. For that reason, if you wish to climb Mytikas, you will need to use the services of a separate experienced local guide who can support you on this final section and provide the necessary equipment (previous scrambling experience recommended).

These guides can take up to 4 people at a time and we will help to organise this for anyone interested (see more info in the comments section below).

For anyone that does not wish to tackle Mytikas, Skala and Skolio are equally worthy summits and offer spectacular views without the need for difficult scrambling.

WHAT IS INCLUDED:

• 5 nights accommodation in twin share rooms (3 nights in hotels in en-suite rooms, 2 nights in bungalows on a seaside campsite (each bungalow has a toilet but shower facilities are shared)
• 3 nights accommodation in shared dorm rooms in mountain huts
• 2 breakfasts
• 1 English speaking mountain guide
• 1 Epic Adventure Club trip leader
• Airport transfers and all other transfers as foreseen by the itinerary (due to the limited boot space we won't be able to take large suitcases, soft bags preferred)
• Financial protection in accordance with the Package Travel Law 1992

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:

• Any other meals not specified (in the villages we can get breakfast/buy packed lunches at local cafes/supermarkets, and we will sample the local cuisine at nearby restaurants/tavernas for dinner. The mountain huts sell basic breakfasts, lunch packs and dinners*.
• Flights (see below)
• Bed linen/towel in the huts (you will need to bring a sleeping bag liner, pillow case and towel)
• Entry fees
• Travel Insurance

*Please note that meal options will be limited in the mountain huts. If you have any specific dietary requirements other than regular vegetarian you will likely need to bring some of your own supplies on the trek.

FLIGHTS AND AIRPORT TRANSFERS:

We will provide one airport pick up from Thessaloniki airport on Saturday 27 September for flights arriving by 11:35 (AM). The following outbound flights from London are suitable:

Easyjet EZY8243
Departs 06:20 LGW London Gatwick
Arrives 11:35 SKG Thessaloniki

British Airways BA772
Departs 06:05 LHR London Heathrow
Arrives 11:25 SKG Thessaloniki

Please note it is possible to take a later outbound flight (i.e. 09:25 BA from LHR) but you will then have to make your own way by bus/taxi to Thessaloniki followed by a train to Mesi Veroias from where our guide will be happy to pick you up. Please enquire for details with the organiser if you consider this option.

For the return on Sunday 5 October, we will provide one airport drop off at Thessaloniki airport by 10:30 for flights leaving from 12:30 onwards. Suitable flights to London would be:

Easyjet EZY8246
Departs 12:35 SKG Thessaloniki
Arrives 14:10 LGW London Gatwick

British Airways BA773
Departs 13:25 SKG Thessaloniki
Arrives 15:00 LHR London Heathrow

If you decide to book different flights you will have to meet the group at the airport by noon on 27 September.

HOW TO BOOK A PLACE ON THIS TRIP:

To confirm your place on this trip please send payment through online banking and use GREECE as your payment reference. Your RSVP is not enough to reserve a space on this trip. The account details are:

Account Name: EPIC ADVENTURE CLUB LTD
Sort Code: 08-92-50
Account Number: 63235003

Please email ingridhansen1@gmail.com as soon as you send payment so that we can confirm everything with you. Thanks! :)

Join Backabush for the ultimate Himalayan trekking adventure - the Manaslu Circuit in Nepal!

The magnificent Manaslu Circuit trek circumnavigates the 8th highest peak of the world, the mighty Manaslu (8,163m). A perfect blend of remoteness and physical challenge, this circuit is one of the most beautiful treks in Nepal and a true bucket list experience not to be missed!

Full of dramatic contrasts, the scenery on the Manaslu Circuit trek is as impressive as it is diverse. It takes us from lush agricultural lowlands and rhododendron forests along the spectacular gorges of the Buri Gandaki River, with its turquoise waters and amazing waterfalls, crossing exhilarating suspension bridges.

Passing through idyllic mountain villages, where we stay in authentic Nepalese tea houses, we continue upwards to alpine meadows inhabited by remote Tibetan communities. We eventually cross the magnificent but challenging Larkya pass (5,106m) from where we have jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks, and a stream of glaciers, before we descend through subtropical forest.

Due to the serenity and pristineness of this trek, the Manaslu Circuit is often referred to as the ‘New Annapurna Circuit, signifying its growing popularity, yet it remains far less crowded than some of the better-known routes through the Himalayas, making it a real off-the-beaten track adventure!

Please click here to see a detailed day by day itinerary for the trip.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• A spectacular and peaceful off-the-beaten-track Himalayan wilderness trek, more secluded than other popular routes.
• Staying in teahouses in quaint hillside perched villages along the way
• Trek through picturesque traditional Tibetan villages.
• Crossing the remote Larkya La pass at 5106 metres.
• Visiting unique monasteries, mani walls, and stupas.
• Enjoying the rare and beautiful panorama and presence of Manaslu 8163 metres.
• The constant presence of the Budhi Gandaki and its raging torrent.
• The almost daily adventure and views of the numerous suspension bridges that have to be crossed.

DIFFICULTY:

This is a lengthy, challenging and physically demanding trek (13 days of trekking with up to 8 hours per day) requiring good fitness, stamina and the ability to endure a certain amount of hardship over a prolonged period. You are also likely to need to take 12 holiday days off work.

INCLUDED:

• Airport transfers in Kathmandu.
• Accommodation for 16 nights: 3 nights shared accommodation in Kathmandu (3 star hotel) with breakfast, 13 nights in tea houses (basic Nepalese style guesthouses).
• Welcome dinner in Kathmandu on first night.
• All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during our trekking days.
• All necessary trekking permits (Manaslu Special, Manaslu Conservation Area, Annapurna Conservation Area, TIMS card).
• Backabush trip leader.
• Professional, English-speaking, government-registered and
  first-aid-trained guide (a senior leader and an assistance
  guide).
• A porter for every 2 people (10kg each max).
• Transfers from Kathmandu to Machhakhola and Dharapani to Besisahar by jeep.
• Transfer from Besisahar to Kathmandu by private vehicle.
• If and when available, fresh fruit will be provided.
• Complimentary duffel bag, t-shirt, trekking map, and four-season sleeping bag, if needed.
• Rescue arrangements, if necessary.
• Certificate of achievement, if needed.
• Financial protection in accordance with the Package Travel Law 1992.

NOT INCLUDED:

• International airfare and Nepal visa fee.
• Any other meals not specified (lunches and two dinners in Kathmandu).
• Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property, theft.
• Sightseeing costs (temples, monasteries, etc).
• All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, WiFi.
• Tips for our Nepalese staff.

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: https://www.meetup.com/backabush/events/304357924/

Do you dream of seeing the northern lights? Join Backabush to hunt for the aurora borealis in Arctic Sweden!

Cost - £599. Nights - 4. Accommodation - comfortable en-suite twin share rooms (please enquire about single supplement option)

The magical dance of the northern lights is a spectacular sight and a true bucket list experience. Over the next year aurora borealis activity should continue to be at its highest levels in over a decade as we are in a solar maximum, so now is the time to go and see this unique spectacle!

Abisko National Park in Swedish Lapland is located about 150 miles north of the Arctic Circle and is a dream destination for aurora seekers as it offers some of the best conditions in the world for northern lights watching. The unique climate of the area keeps the skies almost always clear, and light pollution is minimal.

Our plan is to walk to the best nearby viewing areas each night to hunt for the aurora borealis, for example at the shore of the fantastic lake Torneträsk. There is also the option to book a night visit to the Aurora Sky Station on one of the evenings, taking the chairlift up to its amazing viewing platform at 900m above sea level.

During the day we will have the opportunity to explore more of the national park, hiking to nearby lakes and waterfalls (weather and snow conditions permitting). There are many other exciting winter activities available to book including snowshoeing, ice climbing, dog sledding, cross-country skiing, ice fishing and snowmobile tours.

Come and join us on an amazing arctic adventure to the world's best place for the aurora borealis!

ACCOMMODATION:

We have secured comfortable en-suite twin share rooms at the wonderful STF Abisko Turiststation, at the heart of Abisko National Park. A delicious Swedish style buffet breakfast is included every day.

Limited single room places possible based on availability and room cost at the time of booking, please enquire.

The accommodation has an on-site restaurant, bistro and convenience store and there are self-catering facilities available. There is also a grocery store 2km away.

The on-site sauna is the perfect place to warm up and unwind after a day of exploring and our accommodation is perfectly placed for aurora hunting with many great viewing points nearby.

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

• 4 nights accommodation in comfortable en-suite twin share rooms (limited single supplement possible at extra cost - please enquire)
• 4 breakfasts
• Airport transfers
• An itinerary of organised walks to view the northern lights each evening and to explore the national park during the day (weather and snow conditions permitting)
• Access to on-site sauna
• Self-catering facilities
• Trip organiser
• Financial protection in accordance with the Package Travel Law 1992

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:

• Lunches and dinners (a restaurant, self catering facilities and convenience store are available on-site and there is also a grocery store 2km away)
• Flights (see details below)
• Optional activities
• Travel insurance
• Single supplement (please enquire)

RECOMMENDED FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS:

Airport transfers (included) are timed to meet the below recommended connecting flights with Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) to/from Kiruna:

Outbound - Wednesday 28 January:

SK 1530 London Heathrow LHR 06:40 – Stockholm Arlanda ARN 10:05
SK 1042 Stockholm Arlanda ARN 11:55 – Kiruna KRN 13:35

Inbound - Sunday 1 February:

SK 2899 Kiruna KRN 11:40 – Kastrup Copenhagen CPH 14:00
SK 1517 Kastrup Copenhagen CPH 16:40 – London Heathrow LHR 17:40

It will be easy to break up your journey by spending a few nights in Stockholm/Copenhagen or arrive in Kiruna earlier/leave later to extend your stay, and make your own way to/from the airport to meet the group. There is also an overnight train to Kiruna/Abisko available from/to Stockholm although tickets only go on sale closer to the date.

HOW TO BOOK A PLACE ON THIS TRIP:

https://www.meetup.com/backabush/events/306415559

Do you dream of seeing the northern lights? Join Backabush to hunt for the aurora borealis in Arctic Sweden!

Cost - £599. Nights - 4. Accommodation - comfortable en-suite twin share rooms (please enquire about single supplement option)

The magical dance of the northern lights is a spectacular sight and a true bucket list experience. Over the next year aurora borealis activity should continue to be at its highest levels in over a decade as we are in a solar maximum, so now is the time to go and see this unique spectacle!

Abisko National Park in Swedish Lapland is located about 150 miles north of the Arctic Circle and is a dream destination for aurora seekers as it offers some of the best conditions in the world for northern lights watching. The unique climate of the area keeps the skies almost always clear, and light pollution is minimal.

Our plan is to walk to the best nearby viewing areas each night to hunt for the aurora borealis, for example at the shore of the fantastic lake Torneträsk. There is also the option to book a night visit to the Aurora Sky Station on one of the evenings, taking the chairlift up to its amazing viewing platform at 900m above sea level.

During the day we will have the opportunity to explore more of the national park, hiking to nearby lakes and waterfalls (weather and snow conditions permitting). There are many other exciting winter activities available to book including snowshoeing, ice climbing, dog sledding, cross-country skiing, ice fishing and snowmobile tours.

Come and join us on an amazing arctic adventure to the world's best place for the aurora borealis!

ACCOMMODATION:

We have secured comfortable en-suite twin share rooms at the wonderful STF Abisko Turiststation, at the heart of Abisko National Park. A delicious Swedish style buffet breakfast is included every day.

Limited single room places possible based on availability and room cost at the time of booking, please enquire.

The accommodation has an on-site restaurant, bistro and convenience store and there are self-catering facilities available. There is also a grocery store 2km away.

The on-site sauna is the perfect place to warm up and unwind after a day of exploring and our accommodation is perfectly placed for aurora hunting with many great viewing points nearby.

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

• 4 nights accommodation in comfortable en-suite twin share rooms (limited single supplement possible at extra cost - please enquire)
• 4 breakfasts
• Airport transfers
• An itinerary of organised walks to view the northern lights each evening and to explore the national park during the day (weather and snow conditions permitting)
• Access to on-site sauna
• Self-catering facilities
• Trip organiser
• Financial protection in accordance with the Package Travel Law 1992

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:

• Lunches and dinners (a restaurant, self catering facilities and convenience store are available on-site and there is also a grocery store 2km away)
• Flights (see details below)
• Optional activities
• Travel insurance
• Single supplement (please enquire)

RECOMMENDED FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS:

Airport transfers (included) are timed to meet the below recommended connecting flights with Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) to/from Kiruna:

Outbound - Wednesday 28 January:

SK 1530 London Heathrow LHR 06:40 – Stockholm Arlanda ARN 10:05
SK 1042 Stockholm Arlanda ARN 11:55 – Kiruna KRN 13:35

Inbound - Sunday 1 February:

SK 2899 Kiruna KRN 11:40 – Kastrup Copenhagen CPH 14:00
SK 1517 Kastrup Copenhagen CPH 16:40 – London Heathrow LHR 17:40

It will be easy to break up your journey by spending a few nights in Stockholm/Copenhagen or arrive in Kiruna earlier/leave later to extend your stay, and make your own way to/from the airport to meet the group. There is also an overnight train to Kiruna/Abisko available from/to Stockholm although tickets only go on sale closer to the date.

HOW TO BOOK A PLACE ON THIS TRIP:

https://www.meetup.com/backabush/events/306415559