Summer may still be in full swing, but specialist Slow tour operator Inntravel has already turned its mind to winter with the release of its new Snow and Winter Walking programs. New breaks introduced are: a rail journey through eastern Sicily, which combines UNESCO-listed towns and the volcanic Mount Etna, and a snowy winter break to Norway’s Beitostølen, renowned for the quality of its cross-country skiing. Each has all the hallmarks of an Inntravel vacation: characterful accommodation, a focus on local cuisine and detailed notes and maps to help guests get the most from their self-guided trips.
WHAT’S NEW
Winter Walking – Baroque Riches of Sicily: Following a devastating earthquake in 1693, the eastern cities and towns of Sicily were re-built, re-modelled and embellished in a distinctive Baroque style. On this new vacation, travelers journey by rail into the heart of these towns strolling through winding streets, open boulevards and beneath the hulking Mount Etna. The journey begins with two nights in Ragusa, a city draped over two hills, with its sun-soaked squares and Cathedral of St John the Baptist. Next it’s on to Noto, the apogee of Sicilian Baroque, staying at the elegant Hotel La Dépendance before two nights in Siracusa which once rivalled Athens as a maritime city state and still contains a fantastic Greek amphitheatre. Last is the absorbing city of Catania, where guests can take the Circumetnea train that penetrates into the lava fields and circles Mount Etna. Price: from £735pp based on 2 sharing, including 7 nights’ B&B accommodation, rail Ragusa–Noto–Siracusa–Catania and route notes and maps. Available 24 August to 24 December 2019 and 06 January to 30 June 2020.
Snow – Bergo Hotel, Beitostølen: Situated in the heart of the Jotunheimen National Park (which celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2020) Beitostølen is a unique Norwegian mountain village, known as the ‘home’ of cross-country skiing. From here there are some 320km of routes that radiate out from the village, circling frozen lakes and ascending high on to the plateau. Other activities available include husky tours, snowmobile safaris and also downhill skiing, with 16 pistes available. Guests stay in the charming and family-run Bergo Hotel, the oldest in the village. All the rooms offer views over the surrounding mountains, there’s a cosy lounge with open fire and each evening meals made from the finest local ingredients are served. Price: from £995pp based on 2 sharing, including 7 nights’ full-board accommodation, return flights from London Heathrow and transfers. Available 20 December 2019 to 19 April 2020.
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