Our Walking Guide | Tárbena

Walking Collection

Erik has kindly taken some time out of his busy schedule to answer our questions.

Q: Where is your favourite place to walk and why?

Erik: I like walking in the mountains, wherever, as the views are always changing and there is always the challenge of getting to the top.

Q: How long have you been a walking guide?

Erik: For twenty years now, my interests are the formation of the landscape, fossils, botany, and wildlife. 

Q: What food would you recommend to take on a walk?

Erik: Depends on the length of the walk, but at least a decent snack or packed lunch to keep your blood sugar up. Just as important is enough drinking water, no tinned sugary drinks. I recommend at least 75cl for any walk here in Spain, and I usually take 1.5 litres just in case the walk takes longer than anticipated.

Q: How far do you normally walk in a week?

Erik: Depends on the time of year, summer is zero as it’s too hot, winter and spring perhaps 10 to 15km.

Q: Do you use any specialist equipment?

Erik: Yes, a Garmin GPS and decent boots, an absolute must have here.

Q: How fit do you need to be to go on our walking holiday?

Erik: Moderately fit, those who don’t do some regular walking will find it hard going, but as long as you do 5 or 6km fairly regularly it should not be a problem.

A: Do you walk in all weathers?

Erik: No, here in Spain we avoid walking in the hottest months and if it’s raining, we avoid going out as walking on wet limestone is very slippery and is a safety issue.

Q: What to wear on a walking holiday?

Erik: Hat and boots are essential, as are lightweight waterproof jackets, man-made fabrics are always preferable as they dry off more quickly. Depending on the time of year do bring something warm as the summits and exposed places can be chilly.

Q: What one item should you always pack for a walking holiday? (Not walking boots)

Erik: In Spain, a decent wide brimmed hat and sunscreen.

Q: Where was the last place you went on holiday?

Erik: The Picos de Europa in northern Spain.

Eric will be on hand as our expert walking guide this season, escorting our groups across all dates for the “Walking In Tárbena, Hidden Spain”.