WALK TALL - Walking Group

WalkTallSpain is a group of friends exploring the beautiful open areas around where we live, without the vulnerability of walking alone. Together we enjoy parts of Spain not explorable by car, whilst socialising and improving our fitness at the same time. "WalkTall is a positive term for one's confidence and bravery, which is something I feel we need when living abroad. Then there's the obvious fact that I love to Walk, I am Tall and I live in Spain!" - Tracey x 

WalkTall Walking Group FAQs

Who can join the group walks?

To start with, you DO NOT have to be tall!!! We are a mixed bunch of people of various ages from the local area. Residents and non-residents of any nationality. This particular walking group is not a 'head-down-fast walking kind of group', but one of walking at a reasonable pace to cover the area, whilst enjoying the surrounding beauty of the Spanish countryside, with great company. As a gauge, walkers must be able to walk a minimum distance of 5 miles (ca. 8 km), and at a reasonable pace of 3mph

What if I'm not fit enough or don't want to join a group session?

If you require a slower pace, shorter walks, or not keen on joining the group until you feel ready, I offer 121 & private group sessions

How much is it to join a walk?

From September 2023 I ask for 2.50euros per person per walk attended, which is payable at the start of the walk. This is used toward app subscriptions, my time and fuel planning and guiding the walks, and to replace my often worn-out socks & boots.

Are dogs and children welcome?

Due to the social nature of the group walks, the group is not open to children. I love dogs but ask that no dogs are included out of respect for group members who are not comfortable around them or have fears. 

Where and how far are the walks?

The walks are usually within a 25-mile (ca. 40 km) radius of Albox, Spain. Focused mostly around Almanzora, Albox, Cantoria, and up in and around the mountains of Oria. The distance varies between 5 miles (ca. 8 km) and 10 miles (ca. 16 km). Each route's mileage is clearly indicated in the descriptions of each walk. 121 or small groups are planned around your needs.

When and how frequently does the walking group meet?

Wednesdays, with some occasional Saturdays. The times are mid-afternoon to the late evening, depending on the time of year.  You can see some reviews at the bottom of this page

Are there any refreshment stops?

Everyone is to bring refreshments with them. And where a bar stop is indicated on route, everyone is responsible for ordering and paying for their own refreshments.

What about responsibility?

Each member is personally responsible for themselves and:
  • reading and understanding the route being taken, and being capable of walking it without hindrance 
  • checking the weather on the day
  • their own decisions, well-being, health, and safety 
  • making sure their guests have read this page
  • providing their own basic first-aid kit
  • not walking if unwell or injured, which will impact their health further or affect the group's pace 

Is there group insurance?

On advice, I do NOT have group insurance as we are individuals walking at our own risk. I am looking at options for the future

Do I need personal insurance?

It would be advisable, but not essential, to be able to join the group. I have personal accident insurance that covers myself for the sport of walking and hiking.  You should discuss your needs for insurance with your advisor. I can highly recommend Garcia & Trinidad in Albox

What should I bring on a walk?
Essential

  • positive attitude and love of walking
  • torch (law on roads at low light)
  • hi-vis (law on roads at low light)
  • drink for the route
  • first aid kit
Suggested
  • walking shoes / boots
  • hat
  • energy snack
  • charged mobile phone

How exactly are the walks organised?

The group is organised via Facebook. The group itself is searchable by others, but unless someone is a member, they will not be able to see who is in the group, or the contents shared on the group. Members are required to show if they are "GOING" or "NOT GOING". I ask that our walking timetable is not shared beyond our walking group

Are photos taken?

Images are taken and encouraged to be shared within our closed Facebook walking group. Some are shared on personal social media. I may also use photos on this website. PLEASE DO NOT JOIN this walking group if you do NOT want any image/s used online.

I want to join!

If you agree with the above, want to improve your health and explore the local area, then request to join the Walking Group on Facebook 

I have a question!

If you have any other questions, please feel free to email me.

Previous comments

Karen Bentley
"Sounds great once Im back I would like to join. I live in Daimuz near Oria."
Gilli Evans
"Living at the base of the Clwydian Range of mountains, my weekly walk up Moel Famau after moving to Spain was missed. It's always great to have company walking, so I joined this group on the advice of a friend Debs, Tracey the organiser has been a great guide on some lovely walks, so looking forward to many more. Great friendly people with like minds to walk with too."
Geoff Murrell
"I am interested in getting fitter, losing some weight, improving my health and enjoying the beautiful Spanish countryside, so I joined the group with the intention of joining some of the less strenuous walks, certainly to begin with. I soon realised that I had no idea how far I could walk or if I'd be able to keep up with a group of experienced walkers. I spoke to Tracey and she suggested some early morning 1-2-1 walks to test my ability, before I joined in any group walks. Im glad she did, because after a couple of weeks of gradually increasing distance and pace I felt confident to join in the recent group walk in Oria. I know that if I had attempted this with no preparation, I would have found it very tough, so thank you Tracey for taking me on some lovely local walks over the last few weeks. If you are thinking of joining a walk, but aren"t sure if you are fit enough, can I recommend talking to Tracey about 1-2-1 walking, as preparation for the group walks? "
Melanie Rayner
"I joined the walking group 3 months ago, it has been the tonic l needed, walking with like-minded people who love walking. The walks l have done have been fantastic truly amazing scenery. What a fabulous group l have joined. Great chats along our walks. Thank you, Tracey."
Victoria Battman
"I love being outside and walked a lot when I lived in the UK, finding this group and feeling safe in a yet unknown area has been brilliant. Tracey has been a very knowledgeable and helpful guide, she really knows her stuff, I really look forward to walk days!!"
Deborah Parker
"I have always fancied joining a walking group so when this came up on my FB last year I was so excited. I have not been disappointed. Tracey is so thorough & organised and covers everything we need to know to be safe. All the walks are done previously & carefully planned! The walks are so interesting, and I would never have explored so much of our beautiful area if it wasn't for this walking group. Everyone I have met is really friendly and considerate to others needs. It really is something that I wake up to think hooray it's my walking day. So I'm buzzing!!! Gracias Tracey xx"
Christine Ross-Harper
"This walking group has just been the tonic I need... as walking on my own was not much fun... walking with Tracey and seeing sights you would never see from the road are just incredible... and meeting new people ... highly recommend if you are an avid walker "
Christine Ross-Harper
"This group has been brilliant for me... as I used to walk alone... walking with Tracey and meeting others is just fab... highly recommend"
Tina Holloway
"I've never been naturally sporty or particularly active & can struggle to find exercise that I actually enjoy. I have always liked walking but unfortunately my husband doesn't! I can walk into town from where I live but would not feel confident to go off track by myself. This group is perfect for me. I pick the walks to suit me. I am going to progress to the more challenging ones during 2023."
Dan Daniels
"The group explores different areas around Albox (and sometimes further afield). The participants are friendly and welcoming making each walk enjoyable. Tracey has shown me parts of the Spanish countryside I would not have found by myself. Thanks for arranging the walks - its a great way of having a healthy body, mind and soul. "
Rik De Gruytere
"I have joined the group recently. I met a group of very friendly people. Tracey knows her way around, the walks are diverse and interesting. I can recommend Walk Tall to everyone that likes walking or wants to start to walk."
Pete O'Connor
"Recently rejoined this group after recovering from further knee surgery, the varied and interesting walks are excellent for all types, as Tracey will always accommodate individuals capabilities, this group has gone from strength to strength. I have met some lovely and very friendly like minded people, and for me is great for improving both physical and mental health, well done Tracey"
Cora Unk
"You don't go for walking alone in the mountains. It's very nice Tracey started this group with all kind of people who are interested in walking. Whether it's for fun, your health or to meet new people. Short walks or longer one's, Tracey knows some very nice routes to go. I will certainly join more walks. Thanks Tracey! "
Paul Hyde
"Tracey and I chatted one day about improving my health, after I'd recently decided to lose some weight and get a bit fitter. Not only did she inspire me to make the first step by agreeing to walk regularly, but also to accommodate my 'awkward' need to start early in the morning as I do still need to go to work. Absolutely love the experience and seeing the area we live in with such a different view and perspective. Thank you and well done Tracey Bartlett "
Linda Noel
"A really healthy & interesting way to get to know the area. By walking together and sharing our ideas and thoughts, we all benefit from each other. The group which I'm lucky to be part of is informal, fun and friendly. Tracey our coordinator and inspiration, is very good at finding fascinating walks.I would fully recommend giving it a go. "
Tracy Clarke
"This is a very Friendly group & a great way to meet your neighbours & enjoy our beautiful surroundings. "
Barbara Taor
"The walking group has given me a happy way to keep fit and to see more of the beautiful Almanzora Valley. I have also met some lovely new friends to walk and talk with. Its just win win. Thanks Tracey Bartlett ."

 

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