27 years of Headwater

Twenty seven years. Wow - that’s how long we have been creating unique holidays exclusively for you. Back in 1985, when the first Headwater guests travelled with us, we were a team of just three people running the operation from the kitchen table! So, has much really changed?

The Headwater concept dates to a family holiday in France when husband/ wife team, Richard & Christine Bass, uncovered a gap in the niche travel market. A few months later, their first brochure - offering walking and canoeing holidays - was launched. It was based very much around the sorts of things they enjoyed doing on holiday, and key 'hallmarks' like handpicked, high quality hotels, excellent regional cuisine, interest-packed itineraries, plus freedom and flexibility, were established. Twenty five years on, and I am proud to confirm that these core attributes remain at the heart of every single Headwater holiday.

Over the years, and largely in response to customer feedback, we have significantly expanded both our range of destinations and activities. Today we offer over 150 walking, cycling and canoeing holidays in 30+ countries worldwide, as well as an exclusive on-line Snow Collection. The UK team now comprises 22 people in our Cheshire offices, with many more overseas, and although Richard & Christine decided to retire a few years ago, most of the staff have been around for more years than they care to remember! (We recently added up that the senior five managers have, between them, 106 Headwater years!)

But none of this would have been possible without the support of our loyal customers and, as we celebrate this milestone, I would personally like to thank you for making Headwater the first class company it is today. Since I joined in 1990, I’ve listened very carefully to your valuable comments, and acted on them, and this will continue to be my priority throughout 2012.

Going forward, our tried and tested formulae will be rolled out to new and exciting destinations as we unveil in-depth appreciations of the different countries and cultures in which we operate. High quality accommodation, fine food and wine, expert guides/leaders and totally flexible travel options will remain key, with the importance of people never understated.

Catherine Crone
Managing Director