Benbulben is one of Irelands most distinctive mountains, surrounded by cliffs and ringed in mythology. This forest walk is a family friendly trail that gives you the best views you can get of this peak. With three different route options, you can go as far as you like, with get vantage points over to Donegal. The two highlight sections for me were the very northern corner for views of the cliffs, and the twisting trail through the southern edge of the mixed woodland. OverviewDistance: 6kmTime: 1 - 2 hrs (depending on route and fitness)Parking:Car Park A: Main Car ParkCar Park B: Gortarowey Forst Car Park is new, and a great access point for Cashelbaun ringfort.Trail difficulty: EasyDefinition: The trails here are signposted, on easily identifiable paths, with good underfoot conditions. There is a multi-access trail from the main car park. Learn more about how we assign trail and hillwalking grading in Ireland.Trail quality: 5/5In terms of this being an accessible trail, the routes here are very well maintained and walkable by a wide variety of people. There is no road walking at all in this trail. Views: 4/5This trail offers the best views you will find of Benbulben and its dramatic cliffs, as well as views towards Donegal and Slieve League.Buggy/Wheelchair friendly: YesThere are some kissing gates throughout the trail, but on a whole the terrain is a well maintained gravel path.Dogs allowed: YesDogs are allowed on these trails, as long as on a lead.Maps: Download the official Coillte map of the area here.Other walks from the main trailhead: Yeats Trail (5km); Cashel Loop (4km); multi-access path (250m).Related Links: Sligo Walks - Benbulben Forest WalkCoillte - Gortarowey / Benbulben ForestThe Yeats Trail - BenbulbenSport Ireland - Benbulben Loop As I pull into the car park the light pitter-patter of raindrops hitting my windscreen begin to drown out the radio, and I cross my fingers as I park the car that this is just a passing shower. Its June, and yet somehow summer still hasnt arrived to Ireland. Looking up at the peak above me, I marvel at how amazing the view is from the car park. Im sure for some, just pulling in here would be enough. The Benbulben Forest Walk has existed for several years, but recently there has been new info-boards, car parking, and general infrastructure built along this route - which I can only assume is to account for the popularity of the views you get of Sligos most well known mountain. Part of the Dartry mountains, this area of the north-west is home to the only plateau mountains Ive experienced in Ireland. The route Im following today is the full Forest Walk, coming in at around 6km. However, there are a few junctions that you can take along the way to shorten the trail, and each are well marked. Heading out of the car park, I follow the trail north past the small cottage sitting under the mountain up a gentle incline. In general, I think this trail is widely accessible, and this first section has no restricting gates. The first point of interest is the Yeats Trail stop. The Yeats Trail is a signposted touring route that links fourteen places in Sligo that were significant to the poet W.B. Yeats. Ive been coming across the signage and installations for this trail for the past two years since moving to the north-west. At around 100km, this isnt a walking route, but would certainly be a lovely driving or cycling adventure. See the map of all the locations here, and learn more on the official website here. The website explains the trail as: The traditions, stories and landscape of Sligo provided Yeats with the inspiration for some of his best loved poems. Artistic installations located along the route provide the visitor with a space in which they can enjoy and interpret the poems for themselves, while walking in the footsteps of Irelands national poet. This also feels like the right moment to highlight that The Yeats Trail, and many of the day walks Ive done in Sligo, all incorporate the maps and artwork of Annie West, who brings the landscape to life in such a unique way that I really love. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize After the Yeats Trail stop, the trail passes through a simple kissing gate and has a long open stretch, with forest to the left and the cliffs of the mountains drawing closer to the right. The forest slowly creeps towards the mountain slopes and after a few minutes of walking we enter under its shadowy branches. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This section of shady paths gives us glimpses out to our surroundings, hinting at the views ahead. This section is mostly spruce, and the dark quiet almost feels eerie. But then the forest opens up ahead of us, revealing my favourite views of the trail. View fullsize View fullsize At this most northerly section of the trail we have the best views of Benbulbens ragged crags. Looking up at the wild walls and twisted trees, its no wonder that this area has so many connections to Irish mythology. The most widely known is the pursuit of Diarmuid and Grinne, who in some stories lived in these mountains, in other stories merely spent the night in one of the highest caves. In most retellings, Diarmuid dies on a boar hunt here, and the mountain became his and Grinnes final resting place. From here the trail turns south, the forest now somewhat behind us and the views of Donegal and Slieve League taking over. As I pass by the junctions back through the forest back to the east side of the forest, the trail becomes quieter. Descending some small hills, the track widens to more traditional forestry road, and eventually comes down to Gortarowey Forest Entrance, a newly developed car park and trail access point. Theres another info board and room for several cars. The trail cuts back in, and leads us up to Cashelbaun. Cashelbaun in a ringfort from the early medieval period (c. 400 - 1100 AD). Following the small off-shoot path into the rings of the fort, the lines are easy to see where the walls would once have stood high. The silence of the area, views of the mountains, and wind off the sea, gives the place an ancient feel. As I stood inside the walls I could imagine the thousands of people to have passed along this path before me.According to the small plaque, this ringfort has more than one enclosing element and a commanding view of the surrounding area, which indicates that it occupants had a high status in the local clan. An extended family would have lived here, their livestock kept within the confines of the fort for security during raids as cattle rustling was a problem at the time. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Leaving the ringfort behind, I follow the trail back towards Benbulben and into the forest.This stretch was beautiful, twisting and turning around decaying logs and moss-covered branches. Theres a mixture of woodland growing here, with native oaks and ferns poking through. The vibrance of the greens, browns and oranges force me to appreciate the dampness of Ireland. Something that is prevalent in the woodland is rhododendron, which is invasive in Ireland. It grows faster than our native plants, choking them of sunlight and out-competing them until the rhododendron completely takes over. However, as I make it back to the final section towards the car park once more, I come across sections where the rhododendron is being professionally removed to improve the biodiversity of the forest. Its a slow job, but one I was heartened to see.As I climbed the last bit of trail to the car, I feel like Ive come to this trail at the perfect time - the infrastructure has been improved to provide a lovely day out, and the work is being put in to make this even better in the future. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Further exploringOther trails in the area: Knocknarea & Queen Maeves TrailUnion WoodKillaspugbrone Loop WalkAughris Head Coastal WalkMountain Hikes:Benbulben Summit Hike Truskmore: Sligo & Leitrims County High PointFavourite Local Coffee / Food Options:Shells of StrandhillRover Coffee Lab, Sligo

Rosslare Strand Loop is a fantastic 9km walk that starts and finishes in the quiet seaside village of Rosslare in County Wexford. The majority of the route (about 75%)is alongside the sea as the trail mostly follows the perimeter of Rosslare Peninsula. Despite being a relatively short walk, I encountered plenty of interesting sites along []The post Rosslare Strand Loop appeared first on Wild Irish Walks.

The Lake District, with its mighty peaks, tranquil lakes, and stunning landscapes, is a haven for families looking to explore the great outdoors. Heres a list of eight family-friendly walks in the Lake District that are perfect for all ages, ensuring a memorable day out with the kids 1. Hallin Fell Distance: 3.5kmDuration: 1 - 1.5 hoursLocation: Near UllswaterHallin Fell offers a gentle climb with rewarding views over Ullswater and the surrounding fells. Starting from Howtown Pier, this circular route is ideal for little legs.The summit offers a panoramic view that will leave everyone in awe. With its moderate terrain and stunning scenery, it's one of the most family-friendly Lake District walks.Route Guide: Hallin Fell Circular Walk 2. Latrigg Fell Distance: 3.5 km Duration: 1 hourLocation: KeswickLatrigg provides an easy walk with spectacular views over Keswick and Derwentwater. The path is well-maintained and suitable for prams and wheelchairs, making it perfect for families with young children.Starting from the car park near Gale Road, the gentle ascent leads to a viewpoint that is simply breathtaking, providing a perfect picnic spot.Route Guide: Latrigg Circular Walk 3. Aira Force Waterfalls Distance: 2.8 kmDuration: 1 hourLocation: Near UllswaterAira Force is a magical walk through ancient woodlands leading to a stunning 65-foot waterfall. The well-marked paths and bridges offer a variety of routes suitable for families.Kids will love exploring the forest trails and watching the powerful waterfall. Located near Ullswater, this short but enchanting walk is a must-visit for families.Route Guide: Aira Force Waterfalls Walk 4. Loughrigg Fell Distance: 5 kmDuration: 1.5 - 2 hoursLocation: RydalLoughrigg Fell, with its diverse terrain and stunning views, is a perfect family-friendly walk in the Lake District. Starting from White Moss Car Park, located between Rydal and Grasmere, the route takes you through woodland, along lake shores, and up to the fell, offering a mix of adventure and serenity.The summit provides fantastic views of Grasmere and Rydal Water, making it a rewarding climb for both adults and children.Route Guide: Loughrigg Fell Circular Walk Other posts you might like8 Family Walks in North Wales9 Family Walks in Cheshire7 Family Walks in the Peak District 5. Tarn Hows and Black Fell Distance: 8 kmDuration: 2-3 hoursLocation: Near Tarn HowsBlack Fell offers a tranquil walk with beautiful views of the Langdale Pikes and Coniston Fells. Starting from the car park at Tarn Hows, the route is a gentle climb through woodland and open fell.This walk is perfect for families looking to enjoy a peaceful and picturesque walk, with plenty of spots for a picnic and nature spotting.Route Guide: Black Fell Circular 6. Catbells, Derwentwater Distance: 7 kmDuration: 2-3 hoursLocation: Near KeswickCatbells is one of the most popular family-friendly walks in the Lake District, offering stunning views of Derwentwater and the surrounding fells.The walk begins at the Hawes End car park and features a moderate climb that is manageable for children. The summit provides panoramic views that are truly spectacular, making the effort worthwhile for the entire family.Route Guide: Catbells and Derwent Water Circular 7. Gummers How Distance: 1.5 milesDuration:Location: Near WindermereGummers How is a short but steep walk that rewards with stunning views over Windermere. Starting from the car park at Fell Foot, the path winds through woodland and open fell.This walk is ideal for families looking for a quick yet rewarding climb, with the summit offering a perfect spot for taking in the beautiful scenery.Route Guide: Gummers How Walk 8. Grizedale Forest Distance: Various trails (2 to 10 miles)Duration:Location: Near HawksheadGrizedale Forest is a fantastic destination for families, offering a variety of trails that cater to all abilities. With its network of well-marked paths, families can choose from short, easy walks to more challenging routes.The forest is filled with sculptures, wildlife, and picnic spots, ensuring an engaging and fun-filled day out for everyone.Route Guide: Walking Trails in Grizedale Forest Family Friendly Walks in The Lake District MapFrom the majestic heights of Snowdon to the tranquil shores of Llyn Padarn, these routes promise unforgettable moments for the whole family. 10 Tips for Family Walks in The LakesPack Essentials: Ensure you have all the necessary items such as water, snacks, a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and a map or GPS device. Always be prepared for changing weather conditions by packing extra layers and waterproofs. Check out my Hiking with Kids Checklist for the full list! Or read my guide on what to pack when hiking with a baby!Good Footwear: Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or boots suitable for uneven terrain. Make sure children's shoes fit well to prevent blisters.Baby Carrier: If youre walking with a baby or toddler, invest in a good carrier that provides support and comfort for both the child and the parent. We love the Deuter Kid Comfort. You can check out my review of the Deuter Kid Comfort Active here.Check the Weather: Always check the weather forecast before heading out and be prepared to change plans if necessary. The Lake District weather can be (very!) unpredictable.Start Early: Begin your walk early in the day to avoid crowds and have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take breaks as needed.Plan Your Route: Choose a walk that suits the abilities and interests of all family members. Make sure to plan rest stops and know where the nearest facilities are.Stay on Paths: Stick to marked trails to protect the natural environment and ensure everyones safety. The Lake District is a conservation area, and preserving its beauty is important.Engage the Kids: Keep the walk interesting for children by incorporating activities such as nature spotting, photography, or storytelling. This makes the hike more enjoyable and educational.Respect Wildlife: Teach children to respect the local wildlife by observing animals from a distance and not disturbing their habitats.Safety First: Always keep an eye on the kids, especially near water or steep drops. Make sure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency. Whether you're looking for a gentle stroll or a more adventurous hike, these family-friendly walks in the Lake District provide the perfect opportunity to explore this stunning national park. So lace up your walking boots, pack a picnic, and enjoy the beauty of the Lake District with your family!

Its less than a month until the2024 Moffat Mountain Rescue Team Annual Charity Challenge. The teams most important fundraising event of the year is scheduled to take place on 9th June and will celebrate the landscapes of Moffat and feature Donalds, Dales & Tops.The Charity Challenge this year will take its inspiration from Moffats newfound status as Scotlands Eagle Town, the UKs first, with every participant receiving a custom-designed t-shirt incorporating the theme.Walkers will be offered a choice of 4 fully recced and way-marked routes which will lead them through hills where the eagles have been known to soar. The variety of terrain across the four routes offers something for all abilities and is a great opportunity to get out in the hills and enjoy some time recharging in nature.Moffat Mountain Rescue Team is a charity and relies on the generosity of public donations to maintain the kit required to carry out emergency search & rescue activities and the Charity Challenge is our main annual event to raise funds for the coming year. Participants for the Charity Challenge event often like to raise additional sponsorship from friends and family to add to their registration fee and to support this Moffat MRT have created a Just Giving page and a downloadable sponsorship form both available HERE.Team Leader, James Coles, Moffat Mountain Rescue Team, said: Moffat is one of the UKs most stunning locations to go hillwalking and this inevitably means there may be occasions when visiting walkers or members of our community get into difficulty. Is it an honour to lead our team on callouts where they administer support and casualty care by rescuing and locating missing persons across our area of responsibility. Our annual charity challenge allows us to raise the essential funds needed to continue our work and increase awareness of our stunning landscape which has so much to offer, including perhaps a glimpse of our newly introduced eagle population.David Hope-Jones, Chief Executive, South of Scotland Destination Alliance said: Were hugely lucky to be surrounded by such fantastic hills, incredible scenery and amazing wildlife. Our Mountain Rescue teams help ensure that both locals and visitors can enjoy our hills and remote areas in a safe and responsible way. The least we can do is come out as a community and support those who keep us safe. Thats why Ill be there, with my family, taking part in the Annual Charity Challenge on the 9th June.Rick Taylor, Community Outreach Officer for the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project said: It has been a pleasure to work with Moffat Mountain Rescue over the last three Eagle Festivals. They are a great organisation and deserve a huge amount of support from their local community. This event sounds absolutely fantastic, and you may even get the chance to see one of the young eagles, possibly even Sinclair, a young male who was adopted and named by Moffat Mountain Rescue in 2021. By taking inspiration from Moffat Eagle Town, this great charity challenge will also help to play a vital role in raising awareness of the importance of golden eagles to the south of Scotland.To find out more information on the routes and register for the Moffat MRT Charity Challenge 2024 links are found here: https://www.moffatmrt.org.uk/events/charity-challenge-2024/

Quirky Campers Beginners Guide to Wild Swimming and the Best Wild Swimming Spots in the UKWild swimming is rapidly gaining popularity worldwide. This exhilarating activity involves taking a dip in natural settings like lakes, oceans, or rivers. You can easily dive into this enjoyable and mindful hobby and what better time to do it then on with your very own campervan holiday! Wild swimming offers numerous benefits for both physical and mental healthjust take the plunge! Weve put together a handy beginners guide to wild swimming, highlighting some of the best spots in the UK accessible by campervan. Let us handle the research, and the campervan so you can focus on the fun!How to Start Wild SwimmingBefore you jump right into wild swimming, check out these steps to setting yourself up for a safe and fun first dip!Step One Pick your perfect swimming spotChoosing the right location for your swim is crucial. Look for a spot with a gradual slope into the water for easy and safe entry and exit, and always consider the waters depth and flow. Theres plenty of online information about where to swim, so do your research ahead of time. The Surfers Against Sewage website is a great tool for checking the local pollution levels in bodies of water helping you swim in clean water and keeping you healthy.Step Two Stay SafeBefore taking a dip, ensure youve checked local laws and regulations to make sure youre choosing a permitted spot. Starting in popular wild swimming locations can be a safe approach. For sea swimming, check tides, currents, sea conditions, and tide times, and heed any local danger signs. The RNLI offers excellent guides on Beach Safety.Step Three Find a Swimming buddy or join a Swim Group!Swimming alone can be a calming and tranquil experience, but when youre first starting out joining a swimming group can be a great way of learning from the experience of others, getting first hand advice, finding new local spots and of course, meeting new wild swimming friends.Step Four Get your gear sortedTheres no need to buy loads of fancy gear to start wild swimming, all you need is your swimmers and a towel to dry off after. But, if you do want to get started with all the gear, we recommend the following:A swim hatSwim suitWetsuitWater shoesTowel RobeDry RobeThermosWoolly HatStep Five Time to swim!Time for the main event! Youve got your gear and youre ready to swim. Depending on the time of year you will need to be aware of the water temperature. In the UK its very likely to be cold all year round, but the temperature will drop substantially in the winter months. Keep your swims short to begin with and gradually build up your tolerance to the cold.Step Six Post SwimTheres nothing that beats the invigoration of a chilly dip in the wild! Once youre out of the water your body will be filled with endorphins and youll be feeling fresh and alive! But its very important to take care of yourself. This is where a campervan comes in handy! Dry off asap and get on some warm, dry clothes. With your handy campervan nearby youll easily be able to change in privacy and warm up, then whip up a nice hot drink to warm you from the inside out. The perfect end to a wild swim!Wild Swimming Top TipsNever swim aloneTake it slow and acclimatise to the temperatureWear the right gearCheck local info before swimmingCheck tides times if swimming in the sea and be aware of rip currentsAvoid getting too coldNever drink and swimWear a brightly coloured swim hatTake a tow floatStay within your depth if youre not a confident swimmerWhy Wild Swim with a Campervan?Wild swimming is an ideal activity for your campervan trip. Whether youre out for a weekend, a week, or a month-long road trip, wild swimming allows you to reconnect with nature, and a campervan is the perfect companion. It can take you to secluded swimming spots while offering all the comforts you need. You can dry off and change in privacy, cook a hot meal after your swim, and warm up with a steaming cup of coffee or tea after your invigorating dip!Best Wild Swimming Spots in CornwallThe rugged, wild beauty of Cornwall draws plenty of crowds year round, famous for its spectacular beaches theres plenty of spots for getting into sea swimming. However, dont be fooled into sticking to the coast alone. Inland Cornwall boasts waterfalls, natural pools and lakes that are perfect for a wild swim. Hire a campervan from the South West or drive down from Bristol for the ideal way to explore this amazing part of the UK in style and comfort.Mounts BayMounts Bay is a beautiful stretch of water that runs from Mousehole in Penwith all the way to the Lizard Peninsula. Its great for a morning dip and also for those looking for a longer point to point swim.Bude Sea PoolA great starter spot to get into sea swimming and wild swimming this open air, salt water, natural pool is tucked into the cliffs by the beach, accessible from the town centre by a set of steps. Its easy to get to and will help you acclimatise to swimming for longer in cold water.Best Wild Swimming Spots in WalesBeautiful Wales has wild swimming spots by the boatload, from secluded man made pools in old mines, to heavenly waterfall fed lagoons, panoramic beaches with golden sands and long winding rivers swimmers will be spoilt for choice in this natural swimmers paradise. Hire a campervan from Wales and you too can discover the wild open lands from the comfort and security of a home on wheels all the modern conveniences you get from a hotel with all the freedom of the open road.Sgwd Gwladys, Lady Falls Brecon BeaconsA pool of perfectly clear water that lies at the foot of a wide waterfall. This is arguably one of the most serene, stunning locations for wild swimming in the whole of Wales. Its around a 30 min walk from Pontneddfechan village but well worth the stroll!Snowdonia Infinity Pool, Snowdonia National ParkExperience perfect clear blue waters in the heart of Snowdonia National Park. The Infinity Pool is a secret secluded location perfect for hikers located in the hills above Llanberis Pass it is accessible only by walking. The nearest car park is Nant Peris and its around a 30 minute walk from here to the pool.Best Wild Swimming Spots in SussexThe lush green rolling hills and downs of Sussex draw nature lovers in the summer and winter months. Expect fluffy sheep grazing on vast landscapes of green, white chalk cliffs, spectacular sea views and some picturesque swimming spots. Hire a campervan from Sussex to make the most of this ancient landscape exploring the secret swimming spots, cafes, beaches and hikes Sussex has to offer.Birling Gap, East SussexThe gentle river at the Seven Sisters National park winds its way down to the sea. Just a short drive up the coast is the famous Birling Gap while it can be busy during the day, early morning and at sunset the beach empties out and you can enjoy a cool dip in the flat ocean watching the colours change across the white cliffs.The Witterings, West SussexThe Witterings is a famous beach swimming location in Sussex, just south of Chichester. Known for its golden sandy beaches, its another great location for a sea swim. If the waves are looking a little big for your comfort zone you can also take a dip in Chichester Harbour for a calmer swimming experience.Best Wild Swimming Spots in YorkshireYorkshire spans a huge area across the North of the UK including the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors. A rugged beautiful landscape field with wild moors, healthland, mountains, rivers and lakes and a gorgeous coastline. Theres so much to see and the only way to see it all is by campervan. Hire a Yorkshire based campervan and discover the hidden secrets, swimming spots and off the beaten track spots that most people miss!Kisdon Force, River SwaleSet between two stunning waterfalls this deep gorge and plunge pool is surrounded by idyllic forest and rocky entry points. Its a short walk to reach from the village of Keld. Its well worth taking a picnic and some blankets and making a day of it if the sun is shining on you!Janets Foss, SkiptonJanets Foss is another spectacular waterfall that drops down into a clear pool of water. This spot is a good 2 hour walk from Malham village, but at the end of it youll be rewarded with the sight of a mystical gushing waterfall, against a backdrop of quiet woodlands. The closest car park is the national park centre car park in Malham.Best Wild Swimming Spots in The Lake DistrictThe world-famous Lake District is an obvious choice for Wild Swimmers. Cumbria is home to over 16 major lakes and reservoirs, each with their own unique, yet stunning views and landscapes. Hiring a campervan to explore the Lake District is an experience unlike any other with excellent roads and plenty of campsites and park ups, youll love travelling by campervan around this breathtaking and majestic country.Miller Ground WindermereMiller Ground is located on the eastern edge of Windermere and is an excellent place to start Wild Swimming as a beginner. Theres a free car park and its just a short walk down to a lovely waterfall. There are jetties and benches to relax on for the day and a gradual sloping entry into Windermere lake itself letting you enjoy.Crummock WaterCrummock Water is a serene spot in the lakes, ideal for fresh morning or relaxed sunset dips. You can enter the lake from the western edge, it takes a short walk but we recommend extending it and taking in the awe inspiring Scale Force Waterfall as part of a longer walk to explore more of the local area.Best Wild Swimming Spots in The Peak DistrictThe Peak Districts open moors, limestone valleys, picturesque stone formations and expansive lakes and reservoirs are a mecca for outdoor lovers and campervan travellers alike. Split into the white peak and the dark peak its a diverse landscape filled with beautiful wild swimming locations. Explore this unique destination by hiring a Peak District based campervan to really discover the hidden gems and unlock the secrets of this beautiful national park.Mermaids Pool, Kinder ScoutIn the shadow of the Peaks highest mountain, Kinder Scout lies the scenic Mermaids pool. Popular as a stop off swim before or after youve climbed the mountain peak its perfect for a cooling dip after a long hike. If you do see the mystical mermaid while youre there according to local legend you will receive immortality and live forever definitely worth a visit!Three Shires Head, River DaneA picturesque location for a swim, the plunging waterfalls spills over into a deep pool and the river as a whole offers some of the cleanest, purest waters to swim in in the whole of the Lake District. The closest parking spot is the Cat and Fiddle Pub, great for some food and a well deserved drink after a walk to and from the river.Best Wild Swimming Spots close to LondonThere are plenty of campervans for hire in and around Greater London. Perfect for a last minute escape across the south exploring the local wild swimming options. With a campervan alongside, there are numerous coastal locations less than an hour from London for you to discover.Pavenham, BedfordshireFollow the beautiful woodland paths to this secluded riverside beach. Perfect for swimming, its a deep, cool river but has a strong current so stay close to the banks. If youre brave enough theres even a tyre swing to play around on hanging over the river! Parking is available close by on Mill Lane just a short walk along the river.River Thames, Pangbourne, BerkshireJust an hours drive west of London, youll find a section of the Thames that youll actually want to swim in! The River Thames at Pangbourne is the perfect spot for a scenic dip. You can dive into clean waters and enjoy the surrounding countryside scenery. Park up in the close by village of Pangbourne and walk to the flower filled Pangbourne Meadow to start your wild swim.Best Wild Swimming Spots ScotlandScotland is the mecca of campervanning trips, theres the NC500, the Cairngorms, the Highlands and the many stunning Scottish islands to explore. There are some amazing locations for wild swimming, not least the many lochs that Scotland is famous for. Hire a campervan in Scotland today for the chance to explore this untouched wilderness in absolute freedom.Falls of FallochLocated just off the A82 north of Loch Lomond this spot is just a short stroll away from the car park. The Falls of Falloch are a popular waterfall and picnicking spot, perfect for a frigid swim. The River Falloch falls in a single 10m leap down to the pool below creating a spectacular display.Milarrochy Bay, Loch LomondOn the eastern shores of Loch Lomond, just a short drive from Glasgow youll find the loch side beach bay of Milarrochy. Swim, dip or play watersports along the lochs edge with the wide open sky above and the forests and dramatic scenery of the mountains around you.Ready to dive into wild swimming? Book your campervan now for the experience of a lifetime!The post The Best Wild Swimming Spots in the UK2024 appeared first on Quirky Campers.

Camper Van & RV Road Trip

I have wanted to walk the Pennine Way ever since I knew it existed. That would have been 2013 or possibly before ...

Our second itinerary suggestion in our Wild Atlantic Way series covers Westport and Achill Island in County Mayo. Over these four days youll enjoy an exciting mix of vibrant villages and unspoiled scenery and get to experience the true essence of Irelands wild west.Day 1 WESTPORTWhere to stay:From our depot in Roscommon, you are only 90 minutes away from your home for the first night, Westport House Caravan Park. Surrounded by nature and steeped in history, the campsite is a handy 10-minute walk from Westport town, but you might not even want to leave when you hear the long list of facilities they offer onsite, including a leisure centre with a pool and jacuzzi. If you are visiting during the summer months, they have BBQ & Beats events every weekend with epic food and entertainment for all ages.What to do:If you havent ticked climbing Croagh Patrick off your bucket list, then it is a must! Completing Irelands holy mountain calls for some hearty food. After your climb, call into Campbells at the foot of the Reek for some creamy chowder (or creamy pints!)If water activities are your thing, head to Westport Harbour for some stand-up paddle boarding. If you prefer something less strenuous, simply soak it all in by taking a stroll around Westport town or take part in some of their guided walking tours, like the Westport food tour.Where to eat & drink:For lunch or brunch, or coffee and a treat you have to try Servd, in fact we would suggest making this one of your first stops when you arrive in Westport. They have a mouthwatering menu, and a large selection of speciality lattes and pastries.In the evening, youll love An Port Mr if you are a seafood fan. If you want to mingle afterwards, head just around the corner to Matt Molloys Bar. Its worth noting that An Port Mr does not cater for children, so if you are travelling with kids, The Towers is a more family friendly option where you can enjoy delicious food and a few minutes of peace thanks to the onsite playground.Day 2/3 ACHILL ISLANDYour first stop of the day is for food in the nearby town of Newport on your way to Achill. Fuel up in the award-winning caf, Kellys Kitchen, then pop next door to Kellys artisan butcher shop to stock up on their famous sausages and pudding, so you can cook up an al fresco feast in Achill tomorrow morning!Where to stay:For your first night in Achill, we suggest you nestle among the sea cliffs and sand dunes and stay on the shores of Keel Strand at Keel Camping. Here youll find all the usual campervan facilities including showers, a social space, and a small play area for kids.For night two in Achill, you have the option to stay put or to venture on to a more sheltered part of the island to Achill Seal Caves Campervan Park, offering panoramic views of Dugort Beach, a mile long Blue Flag beach of unspoilt silver sand.What to do:Travel along the Atlantic Drive, 40km of rugged beauty and breathtaking views. (Watch out for the friendly four-legged locals that roam freely!) This is a great activity to do early in your visit to get a feel for the Island, its also an ideal way for anyone with mobility issues to experience Achill from the comfort of your campervan.Spend the day in the paradise that is Keem Bay, a sheltered horse-shoe shaped beach which is continuously voted one of the best beaches in the world year after year. Climb to the top of the hill to the World War II Look Out Post for that iconic window view over the bay. Its a steep 200m from the carpark, but so worth it.Devote an hour or so to taking in The Deserted Village in Slievemore, a remarkable mile long stretch, home to over 80 abandoned stone cottages that hold secrets and tales of times gone by.Visit the Achill Island Seaweed Bath for a relaxing and healing experience that uses hand harvested seaweed from the island.Take part in a tasting tour at Achill Island Distillery, a working, family run distillery that is home to Irish American Whiskey.Where to eat & drink:Pick up a pizza from Pure Magic or some freshly caught fish (and chips!) from the Ar Bia Mara food truck and find a secluded spot to watch the sunset.Do not leave Achill without bringing home a sample (or a sack full) of Achill Island Sea Salted Caramel Fudge!Day 4/5 MULRANNY OR WILLOWBROOKIf you want to extend your trip, we suggest adding a stopover at Nevins Newfield Inn in Mulranny, a short 15 minute drive once you cross back over the bridge from Achill. A much-loved spot amongst the motorhome community, Nevins Newfield Inn is a Bar & Restaurant equipped with electric hook up and water.As well as great food (try Grannys Warm Apple Pie), you can expect authentic West of Ireland hospitality, even from their robot servers, Bella & Bertie!This extra stop over is also an opportunity to squeeze in some stargazing! Something you might not know is that Mayo is actually home to Irelands very first International Dark Sky Park which is free to access every night. On a clear night, thousands of twinkling stars, (and even sometimes, meteor showers) light up the skies over Mayo, and one of the main viewpoints, the Claggan Mountain Boardwalk, is only a short 6km from Mulranny.If you only have time for 4 nights, we suggest heading straight from Achill to spend your final night cosied up in your campervan at Willowbrook Glamping and Campervan Park in Ballaghaderreen, on the banks of the river Lung. This will leave you less than an hour from the Craic N Campers depot for the following morning.Depending on what time you arrive, you might have time to try out some local activities. A visit to Hayfield Alpaca Farm or a guided kayak tour are both within 20 minutes of Willowbrook and big hits with children and adults alike.No matter where you travel on the Wild Atlantic Way, youll find beauty and adventure in abundance. Theres so much more to see so check out our other blog posts for more suggested itineraries like our 5 Day Clare & Galway Itinerary, so you can continue exploring and planning your next campervan escape.The post 4 Day Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary : Westport & Achill Island appeared first on Craic N Campers.

Soft flasks, water bladders, water bottles - the variety of names we have for the things that keep us hydrated! Today, Im sharing the really simple method I have for cleaning and sterilising my flasks. Ive been doing this for a few years, and so far its worked well on all my plastic food utensils that Ive needed to deep clean after outdoor adventures.The only item youll need to buy is sterilising fluid used for infants bottles. It comes in a concentrate, and the most popular name brand that I know is Milton. Im using an off-brand version I found in my local supermarket. MethodRinse and clean your soft flasks. If possible, try turning your flasks inside out and using a clean nail brush to scrub down the insides. This is great if youve used electrolytes or additives to your water. I use my regular dish soap. Rinse well.Check the instructions on your sterilising fluid - for mine, its two caps of fluid to 2L of cold water. Prepare the mixture in a large clean bowl. Take apart your soft flasks / water bladders. These things come apart more than you would think. Its always important to take apart the mouth pieces, as this is where Ive seen the most mould and bacteria build-up. Check on the manufacturers website if youre unsure how to take yours apart. Submerge your flasks in the solution. I like to leave mine overnight, but follow the instructions that come with your sterilising fluid. For more traditional water bottles, I stand them on a stable surface and pour the mixed solution into the bottles, filling to the brim.Once finished soaking, rinse well. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize This process wont remove long term discolouration, but can remove mould or bacteria discolouration (see in the video below how my discolouration changes). Between washes I will often store my flasks in the freezer to prevent any new bacteria or mould from growing. Gear Care 101 SeriesHow to fit hiking bootsHow to Wash WaterproofsHow to wash sleeping bags & down jacketsHow to patch a waterproof jacketHow to resole hiking boots