FAQ's - Secret Hills Walking Holidays

Some questions answered...

How long have you been running Secret Hills Walking Holidays and Short Breaks for Singles?

We started in 2003 and run about 80 holidays a year. We feel we know what single people need, and we plan our short breaks to suit this need.

Is there a single supplement on Short Breaks for Singles Holidays?

Not in the UK. On our European holidays, then yes, but we have minimised these with the hotels we use.

My partner doesn't walk - do I qualify for a singles holiday?

Yes – actually it’s a holiday for people who want to travel SOLO, not necessarily just singles. So if your choice is SOLO travelling then please join us.

What will the split be between women and men?

It varies, but on average its a 60%/40% split women to men

I am a vegetarian/ I need a special diet?

Let us know, that is the most important first thing, and there is a section on the booking form for that. We work with each of our hotels to make sure you are provided for, and work with chefs and hotel owners to provide quality, alternative food for people who need it.

Do I need holiday insurance?

For UK holidays – we always advise that you have holiday insurance. This protects you against unforeseen events that might incur a cost. If you frequently take short breaks then a yearly travel insurance is advisable, and is not expensive. You may find your bank account already carries such an insurance.

For European Holidays – It is a condition of joining any of our European holidays that you must be fully insured against travel, all medical- including any Corona Virus issues, and personal accident risks (to include repatriation costs and air ambulance or helicopter rescue services where appropriate We will ask for this information as a condition of reserving a place.

How do I pay?

If you book online – 95% of people do – then payment could not be easier. We use the safe PayPal system. Simply use your credit or debit card to pay for any holiday. You can also send a cheque to us. Make it out to “Secret Hills Walking” and send to Short Breaks for Singles, 35 Sandford Avenue, Church Stretton, Shropshire. SY6 6BH.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Yes – we ask for a deposit of 25%. Full payment is due one month (UK holidays), two months (European holidays) prior to the start date, and reservations within one month (UK holidays), two months (European holidays) from the start date require full payment.

Will all the fellow guests be about my age?

We find that a good mix of ages makes for a successful social holiday, so it is likely that there will be a fairly wide range of ages on any one programme. But ask us if you are unsure.

What is NOT included in the short break?

Any drinks or refreshments you purchase during the break, including during lunch and dinner times. Any other item you may purchase through the hotel, like a paper. Any entrance fees to castles/events, etc., that are part of the Short Breaks programme. We will notify you in your Joining Details of any such potential charges for entrance. We pay for hotel/dinner/lunch and all walks expenses.

What outdoor clothing do I need?

A comprehensive list is sent to you with your joining details, though you need to prepare for inclement weather with sensible outdoor footwear and clothing that will keep you dry inside. Most of our short breaks are in the UK, after all!!

What fitness levels do I need?

Two answers. On the Get Active Walking programme, you need to be able to walk for 5 hours, with some ascending and descending, at a moderate pace of walking – that’s not fast, but continuous. On Discovery and Easy Walking/and Themed holidays, you need to be able to walk at an easy pace for about 2.5 hours, plus walking around events/attractions etc. Easy pace of walking, so the level of fitness is less that for Get Active Walking

Do I make my own way to the hotel in the UK?

Yes, we will send a comprehensive set of directions with your joining details, and the post code if you are using Sat Nav. All our hotels have suitably safe and sufficient parking.

If I come by public transport, how will I get from the train/bus station to the hotel?

We will send you details of how to get to the hotel. In some areas we will pick you up, but always we will make sure you have sufficient guidance to get safely to the hotel/and return when you use public transport. In some cases the website will give you details of this provision.

What happens if I have to cancel at short notice?

We will always attempt to re-let the room booked for you but sometimes that is not possible and you will lose all your monies. However, if you cancel in reasonable time, (see terms and conditions), then we will refund as much money as we can, minus a £50 cancellation administration charge.

Is lunch included?

Yes – we tend to use local pubs and cafes, on the light bite menu; just occasionally we have a packed lunch. You will purchase your own drinks though.

What about group size?

On average the group size is 8 – 12; don’t expect 30 people. We specialise in manageable group sizes – that way you get to know one another much better.

If there is a group of us, will you organise a short breaks holiday just for our group?

Yes – we organise about 30 Group holidays per year in the UK and Europe. Just tell us what you want and we will put a full proposal to you. Once you accept it, we will arrange everything for you.

FAQ’s