We hope you had a relaxing Christmas day and are now looking forward to the next celebration. Here at Macs Adventure HQ we are filled with anticipation for the year ahead, looking forward to another year of adventures and the chance to try out our brand new gear on the trail! Keep an eye on our website or newsletter for further information on the following walking and cycling trips that we have planned for 2017!

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Switzerland

Switzerland has proved to be very popular over the past few years, with the mix of classic treks, alpine towns and luxurious accommodations appealing to a varied crowd. 2016 even saw an engagement with the finest of backdrops! [caption id="attachment_21794" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Switzerland is for lovers, Bernese Oberland[/caption] 2017 will see a host of new walking tours in Switzerland, here are some to look out for. The Glacier Express Rail & Hike, a 7 night itinerary that includes stays in St Moritz and Zermatt with a ride on the legendary Glacier Express in between. This train ride can only be described as epic as the train squeezes its way through the snow covered Alps, through narrow valleys, tight curves, 91 tunnels, and across 291 bridges! The 2 Sides to the Matterhorn tour is a week long jaunt that will see you staying in Zermatt and the Val d'Anniviers at some truly stunning properties, including the Hotel Bella Tolla in St Luc. [caption id="attachment_21795" align="aligncenter" width="900"] The Glacier Express is one of the world's great train journeys[/caption]

Japan

A self guided walking tour in Japan may seem like a daunting prospect but it is the best way to learn about this fascinating country. Immerse yourself in the culture by experiencing it properly and don't worry we are always right behind you, so to speak, with local partners there to help you should you need it. [caption id="attachment_21681" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Enjoy the slower pace of life in rural Japan[/caption] In 2017 we will be launching the Shikoku Pilgrimage, a trail on the Japanese island of Shikoku which visits Buddhist temples and shrines on some of the particularly beautiful sections of this long distance walk. Expect traditional Japanese accommodations and warm hospitality - especially since the name given to the pilgrims who complete this trail is 'Ohenro San' who practice a philosophy of showing kindness to strangers. [caption id="attachment_21796" align="aligncenter" width="900"] A temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage[/caption]

France

What makes France special is diversity. Diversity in the geography, diversity in the people and diversity in the food and wine. The regional differences are clear and they are celebrated. Perhaps this is why France is such a popular country - for adventure enthusiasts there is something to suit everyone. Have a look at just a few of the cycling and walking tours we have planned for 2017. [caption id="attachment_21877" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Chateau & gardens of Villandry, just one of many classic Loire sights.[/caption] Pedalling a predominately flat, dedicated cycleway the Loire Cycle Path follows the Loire River through royal towns and villages. Discover the grand chateaus and famous regional cuisine as you go. Luxury Loire. Cycle the history of the Loire by day and each evening relax in Loire’s finest chateau hotels, selected for their gourmet dining, gardens and poolside relaxation. The Cycling the Chateaux of the Loire tour has been designed with the leisurely cyclist in mind. Enjoy two nights in Blois, Amboise and Azay le Rideau giving you ample time to explore the châteaux, the sights and the restaurants. [caption id="attachment_21878" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Classic walking around Mont Blanc[/caption] The Classic Walks of Mont Blanc tour is an Alpine adventure that takes in the snow capped peaks, meadows of Alpine flowers, shimmering mountain lakes and imposing glaciers at a relaxed pace. Graded as moderate this tour is an easier option than other self guided walking tours around Mont Blanc because cable cars are used to get up and down the high elevations. View this tour on our website.

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We hope you are as excited about the coming year and the possibilities for adventure it brings as we are! If you enjoyed this glimpse into our plans for 2017 remember to keep an eye on our website, facebook page and newsletter for new self guided walking and cycling trips from Macs Adventure.