Great Rail Journeys expands offering with escorted walking tours collection

Great Rail Journeys has expanded its product range to include a new escorted walking tours collection.

The first tours will take place in Austria, Italy, Spain and Switzerland in spring 2026.

The packages will combine rail travel, scenic walks and excursions such as boat trips, city tours and vineyard visits.

The walks will be led by expert local guides, with two grades available depending on terrain, distance and level of ascent and descent for travellers to find a pace and level that suits them.

Group sizes will be limited to 24 people, with a dedicated tour manager joining throughout.

Tours in the collection include the eight-day Catalonia’s Coast & Culture itinerary from £1,999, the 10-day Lake Maggiore & Italian Valleys from £2,799 and the nine-day Austrian Alps, Tyrol & Alpbach from £2,199.

The specialist is also offering a £200 discount per person on the escorted walking tours range when booked before October 31.

Great Rail Journeys now operates more than 250 tours in more than 40 countries aimed at the “worldly traveller” over-55 demographic.

In 2018, the operator set up its first river cruise programme which now represents a fifth of its total business.

Great Rail Journeys chief executive Dave Riley said: “We’re delighted to announce our new escorted walking tours, building on our popular rail and river cruise products.

“We’re always listening to customers’ feedback on new ways to create lifelong memories, which inspired the launch of this new collection.”

He added: “Walking reveals hidden gems that you wouldn’t otherwise see, from wildlife to ancient churches and secret viewpoints - all with the support of experienced tour managers and local guides every step of the way.

“Of course, our signature rail product has been weaved into each itinerary, meaning customers can truly slow down and soak in their surroundings.”