Accommodation Booking Guide

Here is essential guidance on booking accommodation for your self-guided walking and cycling adventures, following the itinerary provided by Big Trail Adventures.

Please adhere closely to the recommendations below to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

 General Accommodation Booking Advice

- Early Booking: Secure accommodations as early as possible, ideally at least 3-6 months before your intended travel dates, to guarantee availability.

- Trail Proximity: Big Trail Adventures will provide a recommended location as the basis for your accommodation search. Book accommodations as close to this recommendation as possible, ensuring easy access to the trail.

- Limited Accommodation Locations: On certain trails, accommodation options may be extremely limited with no alternatives in specific locations. Begin your booking process by securing these critical locations first, as they can dictate your overall itinerary.

- Booking Coordination: Ideally, book all accommodations concurrently. Some providers may allow temporary reservation holds (typically 24 hours) while you finalize other bookings.

 Cancellation Policies: Thoroughly review each accommodation's cancellation policy. Some providers offer late cancellations for an additional premium, which can provide valuable flexibility.

- Comparative Pricing: Cross-check platforms such as Booking.com and TripAdvisor for differences in pricing and cancellation conditions.

- Direct vs. Third-party Booking: Larger hotels might appear on multiple booking platforms as well as taking direct bookings. Smaller accommodations such as pubs, inns,  bed and breakfast providers, hostels and mountain refuges may not feature on any third party platforms.Some might not even take web bookings but need a direct email or phone call.

- Reviews: Prioritize reviews from fellow hikers or cyclists to gather practical and relevant insights into accommodation quality and suitability.

- Meals: Consider where you will be eating in the evening, as well as sleeping. In larger towns this should not be a problem but there may be limited options in smaller locations. Check with the place where you are staying what the options are, which might include them providing a meal by special arrangement.

 

Specific Advice for Booking Mountain Refuges in Europe

Mountain refuges (or huts) are integral to European mountain trails, offering essential overnight accommodations along routes like the Tour du Mont Blanc, Tour of Monte Rosa, and GR 221.

- Booking Window: Refuges typically begin accepting reservations several months in advance, often starting from January for the summer months (June–September). Confirm reservation opening dates via refuge websites.

- Reservation Method: Book directly via refuge websites, email, or telephone. Limited connectivity may require patience and persistence.

- Membership and Discounts: Consider memberships (e.g., Alpine Clubs like Club Alpin Français or Club Alpino Italiano) for possible priority booking, discounted rates, and additional benefits.

- Deposit and Payment: Advance deposits or full prepayment are often required. Ensure clarity on refund policies in case of travel plan changes.

- Confirmation and Documentation: Obtain written confirmation (email or printed) of your reservation, detailing dates, guest numbers, meal arrangements, and room type.

- Arrival and Departure: Clearly communicate your expected arrival time, especially if after 4 pm. Review refuge rules regarding check-in/check-out times, meal times, and quiet hours.

- Meal Arrangements: Confirm whether meals are included or require separate booking. Clearly communicate any dietary requirements or allergies at the booking stage.

 

Following these guidelines will ensure reliable, comfortable accommodations, enhancing your overall trail experience with Big Trail Adventures.