Richard Bell

Richard Bell was born and brought up in Yorkshire, on the northeast coast of the UK, and has been an avid traveler all his life (he has now explored more than 100 countries). His first job was working as a purser on cruise ships for P&O and Princess Cruises, including a stint on that infamous vessel the Love Boat. Richard has been a guide now for almost 20 years and leads exclusively for Wilderness Travel in Europe and Nepal. His passion for the outdoors is as great as it ever was, and he is always eager to share his wealth of experience and enthusiasm for the culture, stunning scenery, varied cuisine, and natural history of these fascinating areas. He makes his home in Cornwall in southwest England, and when not leading trips, tends to his fruit and vegetable garden, loves to cook (he derives inspiration for his culinary efforts from the many countries he has visited), and, with his wife, often travels back to the same places where he leads trips to explore even further. Now in his 60s, Richard says he has graduated with honors from the University of Life, and is delighted to be able to share his experiences with our travelers.

Upcoming Trips:

England Coast to Coast, June 2-15, 2013
Hiking Norway's Fjord Country, June 18-27, 2013
Hiking Norway's Fjord Country, June 28-July 7, 2013
England Coast to Coast, July 14-27, 2013
Hiking Norway's Fjord Country, July 30-August 8, 2013
England Coast to Coast, September 1-14, 2013
Croatia: Istria and the Dalmatian Coast, September 20-30, 2013

Client Testimonials:


Richard was responsive, responsible, enlightening, enjoyable traveling companion and excellent tour leader; paid attention to all details, left nothing to chance; flexible; on the look out for unforseen opportunities that we might be interested in and enjoy. Terry D., Palm Springs, CA
Hiking in the Slovenian Alps I think Richard enjoys his job and it shows. He was very helpful in finding us fine traditional handicrafts. Sharon K., Burnsville MN
Ultimate Everest I thoroughly enjoyed hiking with Richard. I found him to be very capable, professional, and personable. After my second WT trip, it’s hard to decide whether to chose my third trip (WT, of course) by destination or by leader! Mary Jo B., Franklin WI
Hiking the Haute Route Richard is on top of everything—fun to be with and cares about each and everyone. This is the second trip with Richard and one of the reasons we decided to take the Croatia trip. Margaret S., Bend, OR
Sailing the Dalmatian Coast Richard was his usual ubiquitous self! Always there. Always helpful and attentive. Then, without being noticeable, off making arrangements for meals or guides or transportation or other client’s needs. Loads of fun! The best! Jack S., Bend, OR
Sailing the Dalmatian Coast Hang on to Richard Bell—he's the best guide ever! Jane Koester, Wilmington DE
Slovenia: Hiking the Julian Alps I always enjoy traveling with Richard. He does all the ‘behind-the-scenes' work to avoid any problems. Jack H., Cockeysville, MD
Istria and the Islands of the Adriatic
We enjoyed Richard as a leader. He was very knowledgeable about history and was also a great chef! Mary M., Stillwater MN Absolutely fantastic. I can’t begin to tell you how good he is! Michael H., Jennings, LA
Hike to the Matterhorn Good leadership skills, intimate knowledge of the route, handler of important details, and always enthusiastic about the venture each day. Paul L., Chicago Il
Tour du Mont Blanc This was my first trip with Richard Bell and he is one of your best trip leaders. He is charming, witty, and hilariously funny. Judith K., South Portland, ME
Medieval France: The Lot Valley Richard is awesome; he has a great sense of humor and absolutely took care of us, and as we had such a small group, really got know each of us. His passion for not just this trip, but others he guides is simply infectious. Darlene R., APO, AE
Medieval France: The Lot Valley Richard was great. He has a great energy, is enthusiastic, knowledgeable, helpful, humorous, and a warm guy. Steve T., Santa Rosa, CA
Medieval France: The Lot Valley My wife and I really enjoyed Richard. It was our first trip with him, but it won't be the last. Larry S., Boise, ID
Castles and Caves of Dordogne Richard generously shared his extensive knowledge of the culture and local cuisine—it made for a very enjoyable experience at mealtimes. Linda K., Toronto, Ontario
England Coast to Coast Richard exemplifies a WT guide. Excellent interaction skills, and genuinely concerned about clients enjoying themselves. Great sense of humor! Paul W., Gainesville, FL
Hiking Norway's Fjord Country