MONMOUTHSHIRE'S first Walking Festival in October is attracting widespread interest, with bookings from as far afield as London and Liverpool.

From October 22 -31, 32 walks will provide 600 walkers with a real taste of Monmouthshire's breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife and colourful history.

The focus will shift from Chepstow and the Wye Valley, north through Monmouth then west towards the Black Mountains and Abergavenny,

Each day offers one long walk and a couple of shorter walks, with extra options such as 'self-guided', 'barrier-free', 'dog friendly' and even 'romantic singles'.

The programme ranges from a 17-mile hike from Monmouth to Chepstow along the Wye Valley to gentle, buggy-friendly routes of just over one mile around Abergavenny and Chepstow towns.

The curtain-raiser is Undy to Chepstow (11.5 miles: 6hrs) taking in the newly created Wales coastal path with spectacular views across the River Severn.

Serious walkers are invited to tackle the County Boundary Challenge, which involves one long walk every day, with special certificates for those who complete the 120-mile journey.

Adventa is currently preparing a leaflet, to post out with the tickets, informing visitors about other activities taking place in Monmouthshire during the ten-day festival period.

"We'd like to hear from any interested groups, organisations, clubs, restaurants, hotels, food or drink producers who are planning something during that period that may be attractive to a visiting walker," said Festivals and Events Co-ordinator Louise McGuinness.

"We can't guarantee any extra bookings as a result of being in the leaflet but it will add value to the Walking Festival."

If you'd like to publicise anything from an open day, art exhibition or theatre production to a tea dance or jazz night please email details to [email protected]">[email protected].

•For more information about the Walking Festival log onto http://www.walkinginmonmouthshire.co.uk">www.walkinginmonmouthshire.co.uk.