Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

No one thing. The overall experience of the mountains, the group and our guide made the whole package an inspirational experience - that sounds a bit over the top but it is how it was on this trip.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Exceptional and brilliant. Sara Bull is undoubtedly the best guide I have met. Her huge experience of and passion for mountains, adventure, the local area and people together with her enthusiastic sharing of these with the group added considerably to what was provided by the natural environment of the Garfagnana region, and the team at Braccicorti. She made time for everybody and did far more for us than could or should be reasonably expected of any group leader. Her assistant, Elvis the dog, was also a star. Whilst on the hill she adjusted things to cater for the needs of both the group as a whole and individuals at the same time. When faced with decisions forced by changing weather conditions she was decisive but also took time to explain her decisions. Knowing that Sara was guiding would be a significant factor in deciding on the next trip.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Our group was great and everybody was more than capable of completing the walks but do look carefully at the trip notes about distances and terrain.

Most Inspirational Moment

I have quite a severe fear of heights but with the robust good sense of Sarah the guide, and the warmth and good humour of other people on the trip, I managed to scramble to the top of one of the highest peaks in the Garfagnana, and it felt really empowering.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sarah Bull the guide (and her canine assistant, the inimitable Elvis) were amazing. Sarah is so knowledgeable about the Garfagnana and an extremely experienced walker/climber/international adventuress. I felt privileged to have met her.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Just book something with Exodus. I would be astonished if you did not enjoy it.

Most Inspirational Moment

It is hard to pick out one inspirational moment but getting to the top of the hills each day felt great every time.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sara Bull was absolutely fabulous. Her knowledge and passion for the local area was a joy to behold. She looked after us quite beautifully, making sure the walks were carefully paced, that we were properly equipped and topping up our energy levels with biscuits and sweeties she carried in her Mary Poppins bag. We would definitely look to be guided by her again and another couple were on their 3rd trip guided by Sara. I'm sure it was Sara that ensured the English passion for cups of tea was catered for in Braccicorti.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Read the trip notes carefully - this is Northern Tuscany and hilly.

Most Inspirational Moment

So many fabulous views -- not one more than any other. Loved both the long views across the valley from the mountains tops but also the sun shining through the trees on the nice mountain paths and the charming old villages and towns we passed through.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sara Bull was simply excellent in all ways -- superbly fit, professional, knowledgeable but also going totally above and beyond as well. Kind, fun, patient, generous and incredibly devoted and hardworking. A very special person. We all loved her.

Most Inspirational Moment

Each day was its own enjoyable challenge

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sara was terrific.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Enjoy.

Most Inspirational Moment

No one moment, just Sara.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sara was an inspirational leader. I have never met anyone like her before. Her strength (both physical and mental) was awe-inspiring. Despite being in pain and recovering from recent concussion, she never let her personal feelings show and was always full of good humour and information to enhance our trip. She was an excellent walking guide and ensured that we all knew the route, the terrain and where to stop and wait for others if walking at a slower pace. Even on our day off, she provided maps, purchased train tickets and organised taxis and a restaurant for the evening. She provided a lot of things at her own cost, to ensure people had everything they needed

Advice for Potential Travellers

Sara introduced me to Magnesium supplements (which she kindly provided to us at her own cost each day) which help muscles recover from the strenuous activity. They definitely helped, so maybe worth taking some with you. Make sure your boots are comfortable and well worn in. The terrain is rocky and some of the descents tricky in wet conditions. Take clothing layers, we went from T shirts to full winter gear including hat and gloves. Take 2 walking poles.

Most Inspirational Moment

Being part of a group that helped each other to meet the moderate challenges.

Thoughts on Group Leader

She was an inspiration. She continually displayed such respect for the area that it heightened our awareness and understanding so that we could get the most out it. She skillfully recognised when to lead walks from the front and when to drop back so that the pace could suit everyone. She made our walking and evening sessions so enjoyable.

Most Inspirational Moment

Getting up to the summit of Monte Sumba

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sara was an inspiration and an exemplary leader, taking into account everyone's abilities and fears - taking care of safety and at the same time encouraging everyone to achieve their potential.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go on this trip - and read the A-Z notes (I didn't do this, so missed out on learning about the room thermostat,....!)

Most Inspirational Moment

A week of enjoyable walking with a good cohesive group in pleasant surroundings.

Thoughts on Group Leader

I have been on many group trips and Sara is an exceptional leader, way above the norm. Constantly working unobtrusively to provide support for individuals and the group, to make the week more enjoyable for everyone. Whether its first aid, extra clothing, advising on alternative options or providing maps, taxis and train tickets for the day off, Sara can handle anything required.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Do not look at Pisa temps for guidance. This is a 'mountain' walking trip and our group seemed to have not noticed this critical word. It was a lot colder and also wetter than the UK. Whereas the previous group had unseasonal warm sunny weather, we were raiding Sara's clothing store. As has been previously mentioned, this is an extremely high single supplement for a small room with a double bed and little else, plus shared facilities. The walled town of Lucca is well worth a visit on your day off. Maps, taxis and train tickets were organised by Sara and it was easy to explore. Pisa can be done on your final day.

Most Inspirational Moment

The stunning views from the mountains, the energy & enthusiasm of our leader - and just being away with the best group of people. The laughs over the week, the coke mentos rockets and crisp tasting challenge made this such a brilliant trip.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sara is awesome! Nothing is too much trouble, she goes above and beyond to make sure everyone in the group is having a good time. She has some great stories and her knowledge and love of the area is evident.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Definitely do this trip! Eat the gelato wherever you can, go to Lucca (hire a bike!!), enjoy the walking, look out for wildlife. Have fun!!