For centuries the Mediterranean has been an important trading route bringing goods, people and ideas between Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. Today the culture of this region reflects this diversity with a range of architecture, landscapes and cuisine drawn from many different influences.

Malta: crossroads of history
Situated at the crossroads of the Mediterranean, the small island of Malta best illustrates this vibrancy as its strategic location has long given it an importance out of keeping with its size. On a Classic Walking & Sightseeing holiday here you'll visit Neolithic temples, 4th century catacombs, Roman ruins and churches built by the Knights of St John. More recently the British have also left their mark and the island was part of the British Empire between 1800 and 1964 and an important base for the Mediterranean fleet. Although only 85 miles in circumference the island's coastline is extremely varied, with cliffs, harbours, sandy beaches and rocky coves that can be seen on a number of our guided walks. For a fascinating two-centre holiday you could also visit the smaller island of Gozo. The island is quieter, with fewer tourists, yet offers a wide variety of attractive walks and an atmosphere all of its own.

On the trail of Aphrodite
Further east, Cyprus is another island with a complicated history that has strong links to Greece, Turkey and Britain. Geographically more similar to the Middle East, the island is politically and culturally closer to the rest of Europe. The Trail of Aphrodite, named after the Greek Goddess of Love who was said to have been born on Cyprus, is a very varied guided trail which starts high on Mount Olympus and wends its way steadily downhill to the sea.

Discover Ancient Greece
Ancient Greece is widely regarded as the cradle of western civilisation and the birthplace of democracy. Subsequently the area was ruled by the Romans, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, all of whom have left their mark on modern Greece. On a Classic Walking and Sightseeing holiday to Delphi & Nauplion you'll visit some of the best ancient sites and enjoy walks through beautiful countryside.

Walking on the Lycian Coast
At the fringe of Europe, Turkey's Lycian Coast offers some of the best coastal scenery. One a Classic Walking holiday at Fethiye you can soak up the views of the idyllic golden beaches, turquoise bays and dramatic ancient ruins. Alternatively you could enjoy a guided trail holiday along the Lycian Way. Voted as one of the World's Ten Best Walks, this is a route that provides an intoxicating blend of scenery, history and local culture.