Active & Cultural Tours
in Southern Europe and Beyond
WILD SAGE
What Makes Us Special
LOCAL EXPERT GUIDES
Our experienced guides are enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and love what they do.
HANDPICKED ADVENTURES
We research all of our tours thoroughly to assure you get the best out of every holiday.
EXCITING DESTINATIONS
From the big names to the coolest destinations you’ve never heard of, we’ve got it all!
TRAVEL WITH US
Discover Our Tours
Walking & Hiking
We can design tours for almost any walking level (depending on the terrain, of course!), and have tours that go from easy outings to the challenging Alpine hiking of the Dolomites mountains The activity level on our scheduled tours is clearly defined so you know…
Cycling & E-Biking
Some of our guides are also cyclists, and they’d be happy to show you around on two wheels. We can usually find road bikes for rent in most destinations, or try an e-bike, which allows all of the fun with a fraction of the effort (though don’t be fooled…
“Light Active” Tours
You don’t have to go on a “hike” to get your steps in, and sometimes a full day out in a city or exploring an archaeological site can be just as “active” as an organized walk. We’re also aware that we’re not as young as we once were, so we’re happy to offer tours that are…
What Our Customers Say
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Dolomites Hike: Val di Funes & Val Rendena
We were lucky enough to travel with Manu and Melissa, along with three other couples, to the stunning Dolomites in September 2024. From the moment I met them, I sensed this would be a remarkable adventure. Their warm demeanor added to the experience, allowing us to relax and enjoy every moment. Each day was carefully planned, showcasing their extensive knowledge of the region, the locals, the food, and the wines. They aim to guide you through the most scenic and less-traveled hikes. The accommodations were delightful and comfortable and featured delicious meals. We enjoyed an evening of wine tasting and dined at a five-star restaurant. The Dolomites was the most beautiful place I have ever seen! When the trains in Italy unexpectedly went on a planned strike on our departure day, Manu and Melissa dedicated hours to securing alternative travel arrangements for each of us. Our final day was a bittersweet farewell as we all felt we were saying goodbye to dear friends. This was indeed the best travel experience my husband and I have ever had, and it's not a question of if but when we will travel with Manu again!
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Tuscany Classic Walk
While our time with Manu and Claire was part of a private departure, our travel included Florence, San Gimignano, Siena and Pienza. Traveling with Manu and Claire is, for us, traveling with trusted friends. This is our highest possible praise. Manu and Claire tend to all the details, provide the transportation, speak your language and Italian (along with other languages), share their knowledge of the places, the people, the food and the wine, expose you to new experiences, and accommodate your interests. They do all of this with efficiency and a smile. With guides like these, you are free to enjoy each moment and truly relax. The Wild Sage itineraries work perfectly for us. They include exercise, sightseeing, unique experiences, and time for relaxation and reflection. We found that every day included something memorable and special. Often these elements were part of Manu and Claire’s plan. At times they were unexpected and magical. Manu and Claire also worked with us to shape the travel itinerary we wanted for a private departure. With their help we were able to have exactly the trip we were hoping for, enhanced by their scouting, knowledge, and suggestions. We could ask for nothing more. We are already daydreaming about and planning our next adventure with Manu and Claire.
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Cuba: Music, Culture & Cuisine
This Cuba tour was overflowing with music, art, dance, culture, and connecting with the Cuban people. And, of course, amazing, authentic food and Havana Club Rum. It didn't feel like a tour, but like a visit with family and friends. Claire and Manu put together a mix of experiences we won't soon forget and partnered with local guides to enhance our knowledge and understanding of the island and its culture. Both Claire and Manu are adept at "feeling out" the guests on the tour and make suggestions and adaptations that are like icing on top of the already incredible itinerary. This beautiful island came to life for us, and we are so lucky to be able to travel to Cuba now. Wild Sage provided us with a bucket-list experience, one that we won't forget, but might repeat!
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Piedmont Gourmet Walking Tour
Manu is a bundle of sunshine and enthusiasm in a truly wonderful package. We were invited to a customized tour (so not exactly what you see here) in the Piedmont area with friends who had traveled with her before. They insist they will never travel in Italy without her, and we soon learned why. Manu is incredibly knowledgeable, and what she doesn’t know she is quick to learn. She goes out of her way to accommodate the wishes (and sometimes quirks) of her clients and seems more like one of the gang than a guide in her willingness to engage and adapt. Her knowledge of the history and culture, and her language skills and attention to detail make her the clear leader of said gang! From hiking (partially in the Maritime Alps) and a stay at a truly lovely, and remote hotel, to visiting the wine caves, to eating in fabulous restaurants, this trip really gave us a grand overview of the area – thanks to Manu’s early planning and excellent execution. She never hesitated to make ‘one more stop’ to be sure we got the most from our time with her. She was always on the lookout for things to add to our tour and to future tours. Those of you who take future tours will benefit from her efforts. Manu even has a magic pack with cures for blisters and other hiking maladies. Manu and Wild Sage exceeded our loftiest hopes for a wonderful trip and we look forward to traveling with her again someday.
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Sardinia: Hiking through History
Sardinia with Wild Sage was fantastic. Discovering the sophisticated ancient Nuragic civilization, searching for the last remaining wild horses in Europe, beaches that literally glitter, and a deep gorge filled with boulders as big as buildings are just some of the highlights. The scenery and history was only matched by delicious local specialties and local wines. From farmhouse to resort we discovered new vistas and regional history each day. Oh did I mention the Roman ruins, kayaking and craft gin tasting?