VALLEYS AND VOLCANOES WALK

This guided walking holiday is based in Les Estables, the highest village in the Auvergne. It's a traditional gathering place of mountain shepherds. You'll find ancient houses weighed down by their heavy stone roofs, and quaint old-fashioned bars. Nowadays it's a lively winter sports and hiking centre.

The Hôtel La Découverte is run by walkers - Bernard, Martine and Alexandre Aubry - for walkers. The modern Scandanavian style building has a wonderful setting overlooking the village (a short walk away), the valley and the mountains beyond. The informal décor helps to give it a relaxed and welcoming 'house party' atmosphere.

There's a comfortable sitting room, TV room and bar. The heated swimming pool has panoramic views and an adjoining sun terrace. You'll also find a sauna and mini-gym. There are drying rooms and a laundry. The 21 twin rooms, all south facing, are on two floors in the east and west wings, and quiet.

Dinners are unhurried and convivial in the French style. It's good French home cooking with fresh local ingredients. Picnic lunches are provided and include wonderfully varied organic salads and tempting home made little cakes. Drinks are from a help-yourself bar, and you pay approx 35 euro for unlimited wine with all meals, all week: you settle up at the end. Evening entertainments often include live piano music, a slide show about the region, boules and other competitions.

For more infomation about this holiday, including hotel descriptions, travel options and full holiday itinerary, please see our new 'further details' section.