Walking Grades Explained

We have designed our trip grades to help you make the right choice in deciding which of our adventure holidays is best suited for you. If you are unsure about the holiday grade, we are only too glad to chat and help you make the right choice. No matter what grade you choose, we always recommended a little active preparation before your holiday as this goes a long way in helping you enjoy your adventure.

Easy/Moderate

These holidays are focused on discovery. Shorter leisurely paced walks with time to explore, watch wildlife, and gain insight into the area’s history and culture. We usually spend up to 3-4 hours walking with distances up to 8 km (5 miles). Gradients are generally easy, and much of the walking is on paths, although these can be rough in places. We recommend a basic level of fitness.

Moderate +

The emphasis is more on walking, but still with time to see some cultural, and historical highlights. We usually spend up to 5 hours walking with distances of up to 15 km (9 miles) with up to 500 meters of ascent (1,500ft) on some days. Gradients are generally easy and much of the walking is on paths, although these can be rough in places. A basic level of fitness is required.

Intermediate

Mountain walks with 450-900 meters (1,500-3,000ft) of ascent, sometimes mixed with longer low level walks of up to 24km (15 miles). We will walk for 6-7 hours at a steady pace but with plenty of stops. There are often stretches of pathless and rough ground. Intermediate trips require good fitness and previous hill-walking experience is an advantage.

Intermediate +

The focus is on mountain walks with ascents regularly between 700-1000 meters (2,300-3,000ft). Walks will range between 7-8 hours at a steady pace but with plenty of stops. There will be long periods with no paths and rough, steep ground. Intermediate+ trips require good fitness and previous hill-walking experience is a significant advantage.

Strenuous

Our strenuous trips involve long days of over 8 hours in more demanding mountain terrain with ascents of 900-1,500 meters (3,000-5,000ft). The hikes may involve some steep ascents and descents, exposed ground and occasionally some scrambling. You will need to have a good fitness level, a good head for heights and regularly spend time walking in the mountains.