Those of you have known Peter Watson since the early days of Duende Travel will also know Kate. Kate is now continuing her work in the theatre and education. She recently premiered her first play at Cheltenham's Everyman theatre, which featured Peter and Kate's son Jamie in his debut in a professional theatre

We are delighted to announce that in 2007 some of our walks will be led by Kate's brother Ben. Ben is a graduate in Italian and Art History from University College London. He has been living in Spain for the last twelve years and before that in Rome and Venice. Ben is a fine linguist, fluent in both Italian and Spanish, as well as a dedicated Italophile and architectural student.

Ben has pioneered a new trip for us in the Veneto region of Italy, with a focus on the architecture of Andrea Palladio. This is a most exciting walk and contains undoubtedly the finest accommodation of all our trips and many would argue the finest food as well. Although this trip is a little more expensive than has been the case in recent years, the beautiful accomodation and fine food more than justify the extra outlay.

In addition to the new walk in Italy Peter will be leading our favourite continuous walk in the fine mountain scenery of Somiedo. High in Asturias this is quite simply the most beautiful area to walk in the whole country; magnificent scenery in a totally unspoilt environment with the freshest local produce served simply at the table. This walk is now even better value.

Ben will return in the autumn to lead our very popular Montes Universales trip. Wild scenery and unspoilt villages predominate as we walk a continuous route from the serenely beautiful medieval town of Alvarracin to one of Spain's most lovely cities, Cuenca. Again the accomodation is very good with superb local food and the chance to eat some of the best game in Spain, all at a very reasonable price.

Peter will start the season with another visit to Andalucia. The sublime mountains of this historical region shelter the prettiest whitewashed villages in Spain and our walks link these tiny hideaways with wonderful routes among jagged peaks and open plains. Superb accomodation, excellent food and the history and unique culture of this beautiful region create an unforgettable walk.