Travellers Opt for Italy Over the Inca Trail

Hikers are switching the Inca Trail for the Apennine Mountains, according to The Ranch Italy.  Following the recent announcement that Machu Picchu will close indefinitely due to anti-government protests, The Ranch Italy - a luxury wellness and fitness retreat operating close to Rome - has seen an increase in enquiries and bookings by those planning to walk the Inca Trail.

“Over the past week, our reservations team has received calls from frustrated hikers who have trained hard ahead of a planned trip to Peru, only to learn they now can’t walk the Trail,” explained Alex Glasscock, founder of The Ranch.  “For those who have put in the miles, booked the time off work and are looking forward to an active holiday in nature, we are happy to offer them a results-oriented alternative.”  

The Ranch Italy 4.0 offers a hike-centric program across a similar number of days as the Inca Trail. Every Thursday to Monday, up to 25 participants are taken on daily 4-hour hikes into the beautiful Apennine Mountains. Participants hike along historic Pilgrimage trails as well as Roman trading routes, through dense forests, up mountains and past crystal-clear streams and charming villages.

The elevation is lower - up to 2,000m as opposed to the Inca Trail’s 4,200m - so walkers can worry less about altitude sickness and enjoy views of forested canopies, open meadows, valleys and streams, as well as hilltop hamlets, medieval villages and ancient monasteries.  Right now guests can also enjoy snowshoeing when weather permits.

While there might not be llamas to spot, the Apennines are home to a vast array of birdlife, such as the cuckoo, woodpecker and birds of prey. Wild horses, sheep, goats, foxes and truffle puppies in training are frequently spotted on the paths.

There’s no need to pack a tent either. ‘Ranchers’ stay in luxury accommodations at the Palazzo Fiuggi and can enjoy complimentary access to the hotel’s extensive spa and pool facilities. All meals are included - a nutritionally-dense, plant-based menu with an Italian flair.

During the 4-night programme, guests enjoy the mental benefits of connecting with and being in nature, as well as gaining muscle and losing fat. There’s also afternoon strength and core training classes, restorative yoga and a daily massage.

“In addition to avid hikers, we’ve also seen a rise in bookings from people who would traditionally ski this time of year, but have been let down by poor snow conditions in Europe,” added Glasscock. “For those looking for an alternative winter holiday and a physical challenge, The Ranch Italy is ideal.

”The Ranch Italy 4.0 costs from US$4,950 per person for double occupancy and includes 4 nights and 5 days of daily guided hikes, fitness and exercise classes, daily massage, diagnostic testing, blood panel, medical consultation, accommodation, all meals and some evening elective nutrition talks and a return airport transfer at the conclusion of the programme.  In April, guests can also experience a weeklong version if they desire a longer wellness experience.

For more information visit https://theranchmalibu.com/health-fitness-programs/the-ranch-italy-4-day/ or https://theranchmalibu.com/health-fitness-programs/the-ranch-italy/ for details on the weeklong Italian immersion.

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Thursday, February 2, 2023