My sister and I were pony mad as kids, as many young girls are. Every year wed go on a big family holiday to the South of France, and our parents would treat us to a hack. This meant riding side by side in sand dunes and on beaches in the blazing sunshine. As we got older, my sister got her first horse, while I settled for occasional riding lessons and hacks. Fast forward 20-something years, and we finally got to ride side by side once more, with Mull Pony Trekking.Despite not growing up in an outdoorsy family, like most kids of the 70s and 80s, we spent the majority of our time outside, biking, roller skating and building dens in the woods. We werent the type of family to spend weekends exploring the countryside or going for hikes though, so as adults, an active outdoors lifestyle is something weve both chosen to embrace.Weekends immersed in nature, whether camping, open water swimming or hiking have been a mainstay of my life for the last 15 years. There arent many activities that Ill say no to (just dont invite me caving, ever), and those who know me are aware that Im always outdoors and probably doing something random.With a dog, a horse and an active lifestyle that makes mine look positively sedate, my sister and I are similar in many ways. Well rarely turn down the opportunity to try something new, and were always up for doing something fun together. We went snowboarding earlier in the year, and in September we holidayed again together with our partners and parents, spending a week on Mull.Childhood holiday highlightThanks to my recently reignited obsession with riding, every time Ive gone away camping or glamping this year, Ive found a local riding stable and booked hacks, so when my sister suggested we ride on Mull, of course I was up for it.We quickly realised that despite me riding her horse once or twice, wed not actually ridden together since our childhood family holidays in the South of France! Apart from mithering for ice creams, the only thing wed reliably pester our parents for was a hack, so every year wed go riding together, with our younger sister joining us once she was old enough.Mixed ability groupDespite my sister having her own horse and being a far more accomplished equestrian than my novice self, we were able to find a hack suitable for not only the two of us, but our partners too! My sisters partner and I are probably most similar in experience, whilst my husband is a total beginner, having ridden only once before.Accommodating everyone, from a wobbly beginner to a confident equestrian, was no mean feat, but Liz at Mull Pony Trekking did a brilliant job. Upon arrival (following a farcical hunt to find the adjacent campsite toilets), we were matched with ponies. Forward and eager for my sister, sensible and steady for my husband, and somewhere in between for the rest of us. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shell Robshaw-Bryan (@shellswildoutdoors)Bonding with our poniesWeighing 74kg, Im used to being immediately paired with big horses when I hack out, and its not uncommon for me to be riding a 17hh giant. By contrast, Highland ponies are a native breed and, as such, are short, stocky and hardy little things. Typically standing at a maximum of 14.2hh, our ponies were super cute, and we had some lovely bonding time with them, brushing them down and tacking up.We led our ponies across the field and down to the outdoor arena, hopped on (the mounting block was probably overkill, but hey, anything for an easy life), and set about getting to know them. This also gave Liz and her colleague the opportunity to get the measure of us and make sure we were happy with our ponies.My pony, Brodie, was the newest addition to the stables and the youngest of the bunch. Willing, eager and kind, I found him immediately responsive and he didnt need too much encouragement. In contrast, my sisters pony was initially a little lazy and reluctant. Thankfully, once he got going, it was an entirely different story, and he did indeed turn out to be a little rocket.Its so important to be honest and not overstate your ability when booking experiences like this, and Liz noted that, when booking, Id been spot on in explaining our different ability levels. So, if youre new to riding and youre going away and planning a hack, please do consider what the words beginner and novice really mean. Being honest about your ability and weight is critical, both for your own safety and for the welfare of the horse youll be riding.Making precious memoriesWith her own ex-racehorse thoroughbred and having had horses for most of her adult life, I cant explain the joy I got from seeing my sister confidently gallop off down the beach. It was exhilarating just to watch her! She was absolutely in her element, and trotting alongside her later was extra special, having not done so since we were kids.After my sisters cheeky gallop, Liz set off with the two of us following for a more sedate canter, while my husband stayed behind and had the opportunity to trot.Between splashing through water and taking in the scenery at a walk, I managed a few trots and a couple of lovely short canters alongside my sisters partner. My canter seat is still very hit-or-miss, and my previous ride a couple of weeks earlier had really dented my canter confidence, but happily, the magical little Brodie fully restored it.Despite his first-ever ride being earlier this year, my husband was clearly in love with Laurie, the sensible little pony he was paired with, and seeing him so at ease and enjoying himself was wonderful.Despite the day being dull and wet, the Loch Na Keal scenery was still absolutely spectacular. There is simply no better way to explore the great outdoors and get close to nature than on horseback, in my opinion. While the eagle that often lands on the beach, and that Id hoped to spot, was absent that day, the grim weather couldnt dampen what was a fantastic way to spend a couple of hours.If you dont have your own gear, riding hats can be provided, and they are pretty flexible with footwear too, as they use caged stirrups. If youre heading over to Mull, our 2-hour beach trek cost 65pp and I cant recommend Mull Pony Trekking enough. Horse riding holiday plansWe enjoyed the experience so much that weve decided to forgo our annual snowboarding holiday next year in favour of a horse riding holiday. Well need to find something suitable for me as a novice and my far more experienced sister, and were yet to decide on a UK-based riding holiday or travelling abroad, but its something exciting for us to look forward to!If anyone has any affordable mixed-ability horse-riding holiday recommendations, wed be grateful to hear them and you can get in touch here. The post Pony Trekking With My Sister on The Isle of Mull appeared first on Camping Blog Camping with Style | Travel, Outdoors & Glamping Blog.

Theres something wonderfully freeing about pitching a tent or parking up a motorhome in a beautiful corner of the countryside, and its no surprise that camping remains such a beloved pastime across the UK. Read on to find out what you should consider when choosing a campsite.From the rolling hills of the Peak District to the coastal charm of Kent and East Sussex, holidaymakers have no shortage of choice when it comes to finding the perfect spot to unwind. Yet with so many options on offer, from Suffolk to Essex and beyond, picking the right campsite can feel like a bit of a minefield. Get it right, though, and its the difference between a so-so trip and a holiday youll still be talking about years later.Main considerationsChoosing the right campsite is essential for a memorable holiday, as its about balancing location, convenience and personal comfort.Location should prioritise proximity to local attractions, shops and scenic walking routes, while also making sure the site suits your particular vehicle.Transport links and road access matter a great deal, especially if youre towing a caravan or driving a large motorhome down narrow country lanes.Practical facilities such as pitch type, electrical hook-ups and waste disposal should be weighed up against your own camping needs.Clean, well-kept sanitary facilities shower blocks and toilets in particular can make or break a stay.Families in particular should look for sites with clear safety policies, sensible pet rules and set quiet hours.Guest reviews and sustainability awards are usually a good shortcut to working out what a site is really like.Essential Location and Accessibility FactorsLocation is usually the first thing people think about when picking a campsite, and for good reason. Get it right, and it can transform the whole holiday, putting you within easy reach of the sights and activities that drew you to the area in the first place. Its worth deciding early on whether you fancy trying somewhere new or heading back to an old favourite. Either way, its a good idea to Explore different types of campsites on verycamping.com to get a feel for whats out there before you settle on a booking.Proximity to Local Amenities and AttractionsA site close to local shops, pubs and attractions is generally far more convenient than one stuck out on its own. Being able to walk to a village pub for dinner, or pop into a farm shop for fresh food, adds a surprising amount to a stay. Plenty of campers also look for nearby country walks and trails, especially those bringing dogs along, wholl want proper walking routes close by. Open, grassy areas are a bonus too, giving kids and pets room to run around, which tends to make the whole trip feel a lot more relaxed.Transport Links and Travel Time ConsiderationsIts also worth thinking about how easy the site actually is to reach, and how easy itll be to get around once youre there. A long, tiring journey can take the edge off even the loveliest destination, so it pays to check road access and travel times before booking. This matters even more if youre towing a caravan or driving a larger motorhome, since narrow country lanes can catch people out. Good transport links also make it easier to explore further afield during the stay, whether thats a day trip into town or a visit to a well-known local spot.Facilities and Comfort RequirementsOnce the locations sorted, the next thing to think about is the practical side of things the stuff that shapes your day-to-day comfort. This is very much down to personal taste, since what works for a family with young kids might not suit a couple after a quiet break.On-Site Amenities and Pitch QualityOne of the first decisions is pitch type. Grass pitches usually suit tents best, giving a softer feel underfoot, while hardstanding pitches tend to work better for motorhomes and caravans that need a level, stable base. Pitch size is worth checking too, especially if youre travelling with extra kit or just like a bit more space. Its also worth finding out whether electric hook-ups are included or cost extra, and whether water points and waste disposal are easy to get to. Companies like Sellers Leisure have built a name for privately owned sites with genuinely good facilities, covering everything from touring and camping to glamping and holiday cottages, depending on what kind of break youre after.Sanitary facilities are worth paying close attention to clean, well-maintained shower blocks and toilets really do make a difference to how much you enjoy a stay. Some sites take this further, with facilities that wouldnt look out of place in a hotel. Sustainability is becoming more of a priority for campers too, with many now favouring sites that take real steps to look after their surroundings.Safety Features and Family-Friendly ProvisionsFor families, safety and flexibility tend to matter most. Its worth checking a sites pet policy, along with check-in and check-out times, since these can vary a fair bit from one place to the next. Quiet hours are another thing to look out for, particularly if a peaceful nights sleep is high on the list.Reading guest reviews beforehand can give a much clearer picture of what a sites really like, and any awards or accreditations are a decent stamp of approval. Hartington Hills, tucked away in the Peak District near Hulme End at Hartington, is a good example its picked up the Environmental Quality Mark Award for its sustainability work. It is clearly a site built around family-friendly touches, welcoming pets and offering the kind of small details that make a holiday feel special. Taking the time to look into all this before booking is really what makes the difference between an average trip and a great one.DISCLOSURE | This post has been placed by a third party as part of an agreed brand collaboration.The post What to Consider When Choosing a Campsite for Your Next Holiday appeared first on Camping Blog Camping with Style | Travel, Outdoors & Glamping Blog.

Following my recent return to riding and with my ancient Jodhpur boots well past their retirement date, I needed a replacement suitable for novice hacks and lessons. The fit was perfect and the price was right, so I chose a pair of Brogini paddock Boots. Read on for my review.What is it?Brogini Tivoli Leather Paddock Boots RRP 55StockistsGo OutdoorsMountain WarehouseAmazon.co.ukFeatures100% LeatherElasticated side panels Pull toggle Front zip Secured hard wearing anti-slip grip rubber sole Stylish brogue patternEvery time Ive been away for a weekend this year, either camping or glamping, Ive found a local stable and taken the opportunity to go for a hack. Not only is hacking a great way to explore the local area, but it also gets you that bit closer to nature, and honestly, Im loving it. Rekindling my love for riding has also meant I needed to overhaul (and add to) my riding gear including replacing old jods that were now 3 sizes too big and an ancient pair of Jodhpur boots that had never really fitted me well.Im not sure if its a bit of the tism combined with the rampant dysregulation of perimenopause, but Ive found that the immense amount of processing Im doing whilst riding, means that my busy brain feels calm, something few other activities can achieve. Whilst by no means a regular rider, riding 2-3 times a month and given their age and poor fit, I felt justified in investing in some new boots. Essentially, what I wanted in a riding boot was comfort in and out of the saddle, but without a horse of my own and no yard duties, versatile boots that pull double duty werent required, so I quickly ruled out country boots.Having tried on my sisters long riding boots, I loved them, but felt that with such infrequent riding, I couldnt quite justify the investment, so based on price alone, I eventually decided to choose paddock boots.Riding boot requirementsMy old Jodhpur boots, with their classic elasticated sides, had a relatively smooth sole which never felt entirely practical out of the saddle. Paddock boots are typically a little chunkier (an aesthetic I prefer) and they have a grippier sole along with a front zip or laces, so thats what I opted for.I suspect that if I progress to sharing a horse, I might invest in long riding boots, but with no intention of ever competing (Im the least competitive person youll ever meet, Im strictly a vibes-only rider), for now, entry-level paddock boots are absolutely all I really need.Comfort and performanceFor the past few years Ive avoided wearing any footwear that doesnt naturally follow the shape of a human foot. Riding boots for the most part still retain that classic tapered point shape, a shape that isnt particularly natural and as such every pair I tried on felt immediately less comfortable than the trainers and natural toe box shoes I typically wear. That said, after trying on several options at my local equine shop, the Brogini Tivoli Leather Paddock Boots (first generation, without the heel pull) fit me well and felt relatively comfortable right away. Given they are leather, Im sure they will give and soften further, making them even more comfortable over time. I pair them with half chaps for a long boot feel and protection at a fraction of the price of long boots.Whilst I like the aesthetic of laced riding boots, Im only interested in things that minimise faff, and given I already have to faff around with half chaps, I didnt want to add to the tedium by having to tie laces up too.I recently wore these boots for a Snowdonia hack and was wet through to my underwear; my boots at least kept my feet dry and warm! Likewise, on a beach hack on Mull a couple of weeks later, which was wet and chilly and required a muddy field walk, my boots coped brilliantly. I cleaned them with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, dried them, and applied some Dr Martens Wonder Balsam wax. Good as newFinal verdictWith their front zip and elasticated sides, together with brogue styling, these boots provide the best of both worlds in my opinion and with a full leather upper and a chunky and rubber sole, Im pleased with my purchase.The design of this boot was updated to include a heel pull tab to make them easier to get on and off. I dont have an issue getting my foot in and out however, but for those with a wider foot, the addition of the pull tab may be welcome.As a novice riding infrequently, I just dont need anything too flashy or feature-packed and these are capable boots that do exactly what I need them to do. They are comfortable enough to wear whilst driving, and post-hack or lesson, out and about if I dont have time (or cant be bothered) to change. Im sure Ill have many more years of happy hacking and lessons ahead of me wearing them.DISCLOSURE | The featured product was privately purchased. This review is not part of a brand collaboration.The post Brogini Tivoli Leather Paddock Boots Review appeared first on Camping Blog Camping with Style | Travel, Outdoors & Glamping Blog.

Materials neededReplacement laces: If youre specifically replacing laces on Salomon shoes, make sure the replacement laces you buy are thin enough for the eyelets / loops on your Salomon. If youre changing other shoe brands, there tends to be more room to fit traditional laces, so you can buy alternative brands of locking laces (like Lock Laces). Scissors: for cutting off your old laces, and cutting the new laces down to size A lighter / controllable small flame (optional) View fullsize View fullsize Most lacing kits will come with their own simple instructions, so check if there are any obvious differences between what Im sharing and your own laces. Steps1. Cut off or unthread the old lace from your shoe. If it is just the mechanism thats broken you can consider cutting the very top of the lace so as to loose the least amount and reuse the existing lace. However, check the lace well to make sure that there arent any wear points, so that youre not re-doing this job in a few months time.2. Thread through the new lace (part C). From watching other peoples videos and reading reviews, this can often be the trickiest part for some, depending on how thin or narrow the eyelets are for the lace. If youve long loops to thread through, try applying pressure to the top or inside, to compress the shape and cause it to open slightly more. Others seem to find attaching a paper clip to the lace and pulling that through to be an easier option. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize 3. Attach the new locking mechanism (part A). This will vary depending on the locking mechanism you have. The style that I bought, the replacement was very easy. Simply hold the device in the open position, and thread the lace from the bottom and out the top. The bottom on my set was the narrower end. I was able to hold the locking device with one hand, and thread the lace with the other. 4. Thread on the new lace stopper (part B). To prevent you loosening your laces so much that the locking mechanism comes off the end, there is a piece that joins or holds the ends of both laces. For me, this was a small piece of plastic that, when held upright, almost looked like a pair of shorts. Thread your lace through the individual legs / the smaller holes. I then loosely tied the laces just to keep the stopper on the laces. 5. Measure lace length before cutting. The recommended way for my lacing system was to put on the shoe, gently close the lace, and then leave approx. 10cm of extra lace of putting on and off the shoe.6. Cut lace, and tie stopper knots. I then cut my laces and tied small knots. Using a lighter, I very gently burnt the freshly cut ends of the laces to stop them from fraying in the future. Once at the desired length, I pulled tightly to secure them in the lace stopper. View fullsize View fullsize And now you have replaced your quick-release laces! Time to go forth and frolic, enjoy the trails once more. If youre a more visual learner, I have a YouTube video that documented this whole process. Other gear repairs and how tos: How to wash your down insulationHow to clean soft flasksHow to wash waterproofsHow to fit hiking bootsHow to pick a head torch

When you think of Carnival you may conjure up images in your mind of Notting Hill or perhaps Rio de Janeiro. Would you though think of Somerset?

Jon Doran tests out a 4-season sleeping mat that wont weigh you downReviewSpecsGalleryRetailersEver thought that you couldnt have your lightweight sleeping mat and eat it? Expeds new Ultra 6.5R kind of proves the contrary. Its a mat you can use at base camp or on the hill without feeling youre losing out in either scenario.Comfort Cradle helps hold your body in place on the matNot only is it four-season warm, luxuriously thick, and wide enough to cope with the sort of sleepers who regularly roll off pared-down, gramme-shaving, mummy-shaped minimal mats, its also drum roll impressively light and compact. Its the ideal solution for anyone who wants a good nights sleep, but baulks at packing in a bulky, heavy mat. On top of that, it incorporates years of Exped sleeping mat refinements that mean it just works stuff like Expeds two-valve inflation system, the efficient and eccentrically named Schnozzel inflation sac and Comfort Cradle side chambers that help keep you on the mat not the floor of your tent.Synmat technologyExpeds Synmat technology is well established and effective, but with Synmat Plus theyve upped the R value to a four-season friendly 6.9 by adding a layer of reflective foil to radiate heat back to the body. From the outside, youd never know it was there, but the result is an impressively warm mat despite the modest pack size and weight. It just works.Also very cool is the Schnozzel inflation sac, which we reckon is probably the best mat inflating gubbins out there. Its a giant, lightweight 80g roll-top bag that acts as a high volume air pump when popped onto the in valve of the mat. It took around three quite casual minutes and five, I think, air cycles to fully inflate the mat. You could, of course, simply blow into the valve old school style, but for the sake of saving 80g, Im in Team Schnozzel every time.Once its been Schnozzeled, the result is an impressively big, thick rectangular sleeping pad that should cope with even quite wayward sleepers. I found it okay in a generously-proportioned one-person tent, but its worth being aware that it is large and could overwhelm smaller tents or take up more than its fair share of a two-person shelter. Actual dimensions are 183 x 65 x 9cm, the Mummy version is, according to the specs, the same width at the shoulders, but obviously way narrower elsewhere.Schnozzle is one of the best pump-bags weve triedThe Comfort Cradle tech, basically the side air chambers are larger to hold you unobtrusively on the mat, is a subtle but surprisingly effective touch. I didnt find myself off the mat once. And it is really comfortable. In the past Ive often used a skimpy, lightweight mat for backpacking, but something heavier and thicker for car camping. The Ultra 6.5R happily did both gigs, light and compact enough not to weigh you down, but cushy enough that you dont find yourself pining for a chunkier mat even when weight and space arent at a premium. No hip-bones pressing into the floor here.The other thing I really liked was Expeds two valve system. Theres one inlet valve, which allows for easy micro-adjustments to air-pressure when youre searching for that Goldilocks balance of cushion and comfort and a separate, unobstructed, outlet valve that means you can deflate the mat in seconds when you break camp. In the dark, a cord on the inlet valve means you cant mix them up and accidentally deflate your mat. I didnt, honest.Comfortable and warm, yet light and packable whats not to like?Mostly the mat just works brilliantly. Youre not having to choose between lightness, compactness and sleeping comfort. Its quiet and cushy in use, the recycled Bluesign-certificated polyester 20-denier ripstop fabric is soft against your delicate, wind-burned cheeks and, says Exped, three times stronger than conventional lightweight materials. If it does puncture, a colour-matched repair patch kit is supplied; weve not needed it so far, touch wood, watch out for thorns, brambles, angry hedgehogs etc.If you do prefer a mummy-shaped mat, you can opt for that version of the pad same spec and tech, lighter weight. Or, if youre in a committed outdoor relationship, theres also the 6.5R Duo, a double mattress version, that weighs in at just 825g, though it seems to be slightly thinner at 7cm rather than 9cm. Dont split up mid trip though or youll be battling for custody of the sleeping padVery reasonable pack size given its warmth ratingLast but very much not least, when the first rays of the sun strike your tent and youre itching to pack up and hit the trail, the dedicated out dump valve means deflating and rolling the mat up is quick and easy. Also the storage bag is pleasingly just large enough that theres no desperate cramming of slightly oversized mat into sack, hurrah. It just makes life easier.VerdictOverall, the Ultra 6.5R is light enough for backpacking, warm enough for winter, comfortable enough for the most pernickety of sleepers, and everything about it just works. A great, lightweight all-rounder.More info at: www.expeduk.comR-Value: 6.9Season: All seasonDimensions: MW: 183 x 65 x 9cm, LW: 197 x 65 x 9cmWeight: MW: 545 g, LW: 590 gShoulder Width: DUO M: 52 cm, DUO LW: 65 cmPump System: Schnozzel PumpbagPacked Dimensions: MW: 27 x 11.5 cm, LW: 27 x 12 cmTechnology: Synmat Plus TechnologyMaterial: Recycled 20 D ripstop polyester; TPU polyether film laminate; bluesign approved fabric; DWR freeInsulation: Recycled Texpedloft microfiber; bluesign approved fabric; reflective foilFind your local Exped stockist HERE

OverviewDistance: 15km Format: Looped trailTime: 3 - 5hrs, depending on how long you want to explore! Parking: We began our loop in Letter West at the Black Gate Community Centre. For parking, we went just slightly down the road to a small parking area that can fit 5 - 10 cars. If youre looking to start the walk from the eastern end, up in the pass between Caher mountain and Seefin, there is space for a few cars at the Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point.Trail difficulty: ModerateThis route is a combination of a few different trails - so while you are on a way-marked path the whole time, you need to maintain your own awareness of when you need to turn onto a different path. Along the ridge and other off-road sections the ground can be very boggy, with very little built trail underfoot.Read how we rate trails here.Trail quality: 5/5I love the Sheeps Head Peninsula and the incredible work thats been done to develop the trail network that encompasses the whole headland. Views: 5/5While the hills are technically small, they feel much larger than they are, and give fantastic views all around. Buggy/Wheelchair friendly: NoDogs allowed: NoWhen was I here: March 2026External links: The Route on HiiKERSimilar route on The Sheep's Head Way WebsiteThe long-form video on YouTube The Sheeps Head feels like a secret. The smallest of the peninsulas on the south-west coast, these hills are covered in trails that link together and spread like a net cast wide. Ive been here a few times; many moons ago to walk The Sheep's Head Way; for a long weekend to do my Lowland Leader Training; and for brief moments when on the way to visit far-flung friends. So when the opportunity arose to spend another day down there, I jumped at it. My reason for coming to West Cork was to visit Leika, The Wandering Goldsmith, who I was collaborating with to make the Sl Signet. All our planning and ideas had so far been done over texts and voice notes. Now I was going to get to see the ring in person, check out her workshop, and take some photos of the finished product out on the trail! View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize The loop we decided to do was one of Leikas favourites, and I was immediately sold when I saw it took in the ridge line of Caher mountain. I divide the ridge line of the headland into three sections: Easterly section: from Knockboolteenagh to Glan Lough (223m)Mid section: Glan Lough to Kilcrohane, taking in Seefin summit (345m)Westerly section: Kilcrohane to Letter West, taking in Caher mountain (338m), known as the Peakeen Ridge WalkThis third option is what we walked, starting in Letter West outside of the Black Gate Community Centre. Leaving the info board, its straight into an uphill climb along a short section of paved road. We then crossed over a large stile onto the hillside, and walked up onto the ridge heading NE. The waymarking in the area is extensive. There are so many different loops, linear walks, and thru-hikes that you can follow. There are so many in fact, that its easy to not pay attention for a moment, and continue along a trail you didnt mean to follow. We were primarily following the black and orange waymarkers to make this loop. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Sitting so westerly, the ridge can be quite exposed, and being an early March morning we had a few showers blow through, the wind a constant companion while we walked. Looking north the skyline is filled by the Beara Peninsula, as well as Bere Island and Whiddy Island. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize When you reach the small road through the minor pass, head left and left again at the first turn in the road, heading for the Mass Rock and the Horse Shoe Road (Sheeps Head Way signpost). After a few hundred metres the tarmac recedes and the path becomes wilder. Nice and sheltered by the hillside, this path still offers fantastic views with more accessible walking than the ridge trail. Im pretty sure one or two of my favourite stone waymarkers are along this section. The handmade elements of the trail infrastructure here really add a sense of constant care and love by the local community. After a couple of kilometres, you reach the Horse Shoe Road. While a road that cars can drive, it is almost more grass than tar in many places, and is very quiet. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize As you walk along the Horse Shoe Road, youll come to the Cahergal trail junction. You have several options to make it back to Letter West. We stuck to the Horse Shoe Road, which takes a wider loop around but is easy walking. However, you can take the right-hand trail heading up the hillside, climbing up and meeting the trail from the very start. This is a kilometre or so shorter than the road.Making it back to the car, we managed to get packed away before the next rain shower hit. Fingers numb and cheeks flushed with wind burn, my heart was full as we drove back to Clonakilty. This was something of a perfect day out. Thanks so much to Leika for hosting me and sharing the trails - I really enjoyed getting to take photos of our ring, and see one of my favourite places again. Further exploringCheck out all of the trails organised by county here.The Sheeps Head Way Website has incredible resources for all the trails on the head and in the wider area. Other trails in the area: The Sheeps Head WayBaltimore Beacon ViewpointLough Hyne & Knockomagh TrailThe Beara WayGougane Barra Forest ParkFavourite Local Coffee / Food Options:Brew, SkibbereenONeill Coffee, SkibbereenDrip Coffee, RosscarberyWazzy Woo, Clonakilty

Jon Doran tests out a 4-season sleeping mat that wont weigh you downReviewSpecsGalleryRetailersEver thought that you couldnt have your lightweight sleeping mat and eat it? Expeds new Ultra 6.5R kind of proves the contrary. Its a mat you can use at base camp or on the hill without feeling youre losing out in either scenario.Comfort Cradle helps hold your body in place on the matNot only is it four-season warm, luxuriously thick, and wide enough to cope with the sort of sleepers who regularly roll off pared-down, gramme-shaving, mummy-shaped minimal mats, its also drum roll impressively light and compact. Its the ideal solution for anyone who wants a good nights sleep, but baulks at packing in a bulky, heavy mat. On top of that, it incorporates years of Exped sleeping mat refinements that mean it just works stuff like Expeds two-valve inflation system, the efficient and eccentrically named Schnozzel inflation sac and Comfort Cradle side chambers that help keep you on the mat not the floor of your tent.Synmat technologyExpeds Synmat technology is well established and effective, but with Synmat Plus theyve upped the R value to a four-season friendly 6.9 by adding a layer of reflective foil to radiate heat back to the body. From the outside, youd never know it was there, but the result is an impressively warm mat despite the modest pack size and weight. It just works.Also very cool is the Schnozzel inflation sac, which we reckon is probably the best mat inflating gubbins out there. Its a giant, lightweight 80g roll-top bag that acts as a high volume air pump when popped onto the in valve of the mat. It took around three quite casual minutes and five, I think, air cycles to fully inflate the mat. You could, of course, simply blow into the valve old school style, but for the sake of saving 80g, Im in Team Schnozzel every time.Once its been Schnozzeled, the result is an impressively big, thick rectangular sleeping pad that should cope with even quite wayward sleepers. I found it okay in a generously-proportioned one-person tent, but its worth being aware that it is large and could overwhelm smaller tents or take up more than its fair share of a two-person shelter. Actual dimensions are 183 x 65 x 9cm, the Mummy version is, according to the specs, the same width at the shoulders, but obviously way narrower elsewhere.Schnozzle is one of the best pump-bags weve triedThe Comfort Cradle tech, basically the side air chambers are larger to hold you unobtrusively on the mat, is a subtle but surprisingly effective touch. I didnt find myself off the mat once. And it is really comfortable. In the past Ive often used a skimpy, lightweight mat for backpacking, but something heavier and thicker for car camping. The Ultra 6.5R happily did both gigs, light and compact enough not to weigh you down, but cushy enough that you dont find yourself pining for a chunkier mat even when weight and space arent at a premium. No hip-bones pressing into the floor here.The other thing I really liked was Expeds two valve system. Theres one inlet valve, which allows for easy micro-adjustments to air-pressure when youre searching for that Goldilocks balance of cushion and comfort and a separate, unobstructed, outlet valve that means you can deflate the mat in seconds when you break camp. In the dark, a cord on the inlet valve means you cant mix them up and accidentally deflate your mat. I didnt, honest.Comfortable and warm, yet light and packable whats not to like?Mostly the mat just works brilliantly. Youre not having to choose between lightness, compactness and sleeping comfort. Its quiet and cushy in use, the recycled Bluesign-certificated polyester 20-denier ripstop fabric is soft against your delicate, wind-burned cheeks and, says Exped, three times stronger than conventional lightweight materials. If it does puncture, a colour-matched repair patch kit is supplied; weve not needed it so far, touch wood, watch out for thorns, brambles, angry hedgehogs etc.If you do prefer a mummy-shaped mat, you can opt for that version of the pad same spec and tech, lighter weight. Or, if youre in a committed outdoor relationship, theres also the 6.5R Duo, a double mattress version, that weighs in at just 825g, though it seems to be slightly thinner at 7cm rather than 9cm. Dont split up mid trip though or youll be battling for custody of the sleeping padVery reasonable pack size given its warmth ratingLast but very much not least, when the first rays of the sun strike your tent and youre itching to pack up and hit the trail, the dedicated out dump valve means deflating and rolling the mat up is quick and easy. Also the storage bag is pleasingly just large enough that theres no desperate cramming of slightly oversized mat into sack, hurrah. It just makes life easier.VerdictOverall, the Ultra 6.5R is light enough for backpacking, warm enough for winter, comfortable enough for the most pernickety of sleepers, and everything about it just works. A great, lightweight all-rounder.More info at: www.expeduk.comR-Value: 6.9Season: All seasonDimensions: MW: 183 x 65 x 9cm, LW: 197 x 65 x 9cmWeight: MW: 545 g, LW: 590 gShoulder Width: DUO M: 52 cm, DUO LW: 65 cmPump System: Schnozzel PumpbagPacked Dimensions: MW: 27 x 11.5 cm, LW: 27 x 12 cmTechnology: Synmat Plus TechnologyMaterial: Recycled 20 D ripstop polyester; TPU polyether film laminate; bluesign approved fabric; DWR freeInsulation: Recycled Texpedloft microfiber; bluesign approved fabric; reflective foilFind your local Exped stockist HERE