We’ve gathered some of the walking and hiking experiences our Members have discovered while staying at four of our properties, from the Alpilles to the Ionian Sea.

There's something particularly rewarding about exploring a destination on foot. Follow a mountain path through the wild landscapes of Provence, descend into a dramatic Sicilian gorge, or trace Corfu's coastline from one secluded beach to the next - knowing that, at the end of the day, your Hideaways home awaits.

Hike the Alpilles from Villa Marianne, Provence

The rugged landscapes of the Alpilles offer some of Provence's most rewarding walking. From Villa Marianne, days can be spent exploring trails through limestone hills and quintessential Provençal countryside, with beautiful villages and long lunches providing plenty of reasons to stop along the way.

Member Sarah R recommends a route beginning at the Monastère de Saint-Paul de Mausole and continuing through some of the Alpilles' most striking scenery.

Member recommendation:
"An excellent hike in the Alpilles was from Monastère de Saint Paul de Mausole, taking in the Roche des deux trous, Mont Gaussier and le Lac du Peirou. Fabulous views of the Alpilles."

Sarah also notes that the descent is quite challenging, making this one better suited to confident walkers.

Stay: Villa Marianne

Image credit: Martigues Tourism

Discover Cavagrande del Cassibile from The Old Mill, Sicily

Sicily rewards those who venture beyond its historic towns and beaches. Close to The Old Mill, the Cavagrande del Cassibile nature reserve provides a dramatically different side to the island, with a landscape of deep limestone gorges and walking trails.

It was one of Member Thomas' recommendations after his stay at The Old Mill.

Member recommendation:
"Go visit the Cavagrande del Cassibile nearby for a beautiful hike!"

Thomas was equally enthusiastic about returning to The Old Mill after a day exploring, describing the villa, grounds and pool as being in "excellent condition" and saying his party felt "extremely cared for".

Stay: The Old Mill

Walk into Saklikent Gorge from Kalkan Heights, Turkey

For something altogether more adventurous, head inland from Kalkan Heights to Saklikent Gorge.

Member Jan R recommends being prepared to get wet and, rather than simply seeing the entrance to the gorge, continuing further into it.

Member recommendation:
"Visit Saklikent gorge with swimwear and proper shoes and walk a long way in."

It's a simple piece of first-hand advice that captures exactly what makes the experience memorable: come prepared, get into the water and explore.

Stay: Kalkan Heights

Image credit: Wandering Wagers

Walk the Corfu Coast from Kentroma House

Corfu's northeast coast is made for exploring at a slower pace. From Kentroma House, Member Magnus discovered that you don't necessarily need to drive somewhere before beginning your walk - you can simply set off from the house.

Following the Kassios Dias walking paths, his route continued to Agni Beach and then along the coastline towards Kassiopi.

Member recommendation:
"Kassios dias walking paths. We walked from the house to Agni beach and then further on along the coast to Kassiopi. Beautiful beaches. Very nice."

And there's a useful tip for anyone who prefers a one-way adventure: the Members simply took a taxi back to Kentroma afterwards.

Stay: Kentroma House

Image credit: My Kerkyra

Walk further, then go home

From Provençal mountains and Sicilian gorges to Turkey's dramatic landscapes and the beaches of Corfu, these are holidays where some of the best experiences begin when you lace up your walking shoes.