GUIDED (IN A GROUP)

The best option if you want as much hassle taken out of the equation as humanly possible. Your holiday provider does it all: transport (flights may be optional), accommodation, itinerary, route planning, guiding and at least some of the meals, and you travel and walk as part of a group. And (with a reputable company) you get a guide who knows your destination backwards. Some trips may have two guides, allowing the group to split for harder and easier walks each day. There may be some extra costs aside from refreshments (local transport, some meals, rest-day activities), but mostly it’s all-inclusive.

PROS: Everything is planned; absolute clarity on route, terrain and objectives; friendly company, knowledgeable guides; generally good accommodation; guides are trained to cope with emergencies.

CONS: Little room for independent walking (apart from free days); group walking doesn’t suit everyone.

A PERFECT EXAMPLE: HF Holidays’ Zillertal Alps; 7-14 nights, from £999 (£1249 with flights).