Outdooraholics Birmingham Hiking, Walking, Adventure Travel

To see other attendees on the trip, please check the following LINK

Welcome to the Pyrenees – a majestic natural frontier between Spain and France, stretching nearly 500 kilometers from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean sea, an ancient mountain range older than the Alps and more dramatic than any postcard could capture. Imagine a landscape where ancient mountains whisper tales of geological wonder, rugged peaks pierce the sky, and hidden valleys cradle secrets of millennia. This is not just a mountain range – it's a living, breathing testament to the raw and immense beauty of nature, a 55,000 km² canvas painted with glacial valleys, thundering waterfalls, awe inspiring canyons and razor-sharp peaks.

To the west of this rugged wilderness lies the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its unparalleled mountain beauty and it offers some of the most stunning and jaw dropping hiking in this range. Here, 3,000m deep valleys cradle Monte Perdido's peak at 3,348 meters, surrounded by a dozen summits that challenge the very definition of mountain majesty.

The trails here are breathtaking and we take in mountain summits towering over the valleys and meadows below, waterfalls, lakes and a huge canyon. Join us on a week of adventure and discover this incredible region.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore the legendary Pyrenees – one of Europe's most spectacular mountain ranges and also a UNESCO world heritage site
• Stay near the ancient Torla mountain town
• Conquer the Anayet Peak (2,559m) with panoramic views stretching to the sea
• Witness dramatic geological formations shaped by millions of years of natural sculpting
• Stay in a Hotel/Guest House with twin ensuite rooms (not a hostel like many companies at this price point use)
• Traverse glacial valleys, waterfalls, and ancient woodlands
• Free day with optional extras of cultural immersion or thrilling e-mountain biking
• Small group led by a local English speaking Mountain Guide (1 guide per 8 attendees)

HOLIDAY DESCRIPTION

The Spanish Pyrenees - a mountainous region bordering France and Spain has a rich and diverse culture and history dating back even beyond the Romans and Greeks.

The Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Monte Perdido is the region we are exploring and is a protected area. It is one of the highlights of the Pyrenees and its mountain landscape is characterised with sharp rugged mountains and deep canyons with raised mountain plateaus.
There is a charming blend of ancient mountain villages, jagged and dramatic rocky peaks, lush valley pastures and unique alpine wildlife. These ancient mountains are much older than the Alps.

The aridity of the upper mountains contrasts with the green valleys with pastures and woods. The fresh mountain rivers gush from high altitudes with spectacular waterfalls along their routes, through canyons and gorges until the reach the sea near the Bay of Biscay.

Our trip will see highlights of this region, with hikes that take in lakes, summits, waterfalls canyons and woodland.

TOUGHNESS - Important Notes

This trip is for fit and experienced hikers. These are tough mountain hikes involving long uphill/downhill sections on steep and uneven ground as well as walking/scrambling/climbing over rocks and boulders. Some of the trails are not suitable for anyone who suffers from vertigo and an above average level of fitness is required. Some of the days there are options to shorten the hikes if needed, but please only sign up if you have a good level of fitness for mountain hiking

ITINERARY

Friday

Arrive at Bilbao airport. Complimentary transfer (approx 3.5 hours) to the accommodation near Torla mountain town where we have the evening to relax and get to know each other. Have lunch on the way to our accommodation.

Saturday

Hike: The Arch of Piedrafita (Tena Valley)
Distance: 10 miles (16 km)
Grading: Intermediate/Challenging
Ascent: 700m

We start our trip hiking this route to the base of the Sierra de la Partacua until Ibon de Piedrafita (this means lake in the Aragonese language), we pass by unusual geological formations, including the stunning Arch of Piedrafita which we visit, it’s a great photo spot and Instagrammers paradise.

Sunday

Hike: Vertice de Anayet peak (2,559m) (French Border)
Distance: 10 miles (15 km)
Grading: Tough - Mountain
Ascent: 950m

Climbing towards the precipice of Barranco de Culibillas, the lakes reflect the high peaks of Anayet and also the iconic Midi d’Osseau. From Ibón, we go to the hill called “Neck of the Anayet” and then onwards and upwards to the Vertex of Anayet summit (2,559m).

From here you get a stunning panoramic view, on a clear day you can see the coast as well as the flatlands in France beyond the Pyrenees.

Monday

FREE DAY: Option 1: San Juan de la Peña Monastery, Jaca tour.
You can do your own thing, relax for the day and enjoy the local area or have a cultural visit to Jaca medieval town and San Juan De La Peña Monastery (optional extra).

The Old Monastery of San Juan de la Peña is a jewel of the medieval era. After the visit, we will move to Jaca, a medieval town with more than 900 years of history and a wide range of restaurants and shops. You will have free time to visit the town and enjoy the tapas and wine before returning to our accommodation in the afternoon.

FREE DAY: Option 2: Self guided e-mountain bike hire

This is an optional extra that you pay direct to the hire shop and needs to be pre booked - at least 24 hours in advance, if you would like to do this, please speak to the guide. There are several great trails in this area to suit all levels from beginner to very advanced, the local hire company can provide GPS files for your phone to navigate. Off road riding experience on gravel trails is required. They have hard tail or full suspension bikes and their range are good and modern high performance bikes. We’ve had a fantastic experience with them in the past.

Company: Tena Riders, https://www.tenariders.com Google maps LINK (rates LINK)

Tuesday

Hike: Valle de Ordesa (Ordesa Valley)
Distance: 9 miles (14 km)
Grading: Intermediate/Challenging
Ascent: 800m

Faja Racon is one of the best hikes in the Ordesa valley and an unforgettable hike. We begin hiking up through the woods until we reach the impressive and simply jaw dropping cliffs. There, we will follow a narrow path that takes us below the colossal cliff face with staggering views.

The path then reveals views of the awesome Circo de Cotatuero and its huge waterfall – a real wow moment.

Wednesday

Hike: The Anisclo Canyon
Distance: 9 miles (14 km)
Grading: Tough - Mountain
Ascent: 800m

Today we discover one of the park's spectacular valleys. Waterfalls cascade down the steep cliffs rising on each side of the canyon. From the precipice it feels like the canyon is going to swallow us whole. The contrasts and depth of the canyon are mesmerising. We get stunning views of the summit of Monte Perdido (and Cilindro de Malbore and Añisclo; the trio of peaks is also known as “Las Tres Sorores”. Monte Perdido is one of the best known peaks on the mainland standing at 3355m and is the 6th tallest peak in the country. A stunning day with breathtaking views throughout.

Thursday

After breakfast we drive back to Bilbao airport for the flight back home.

COST & PAYMENT

£858. Click “Attend” and pay the £100 deposit by Paypal. The remainder is due by bank transfer before Sunday 6th April, we’ll email payment details 1 week before.

Trip payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. When the trip is sold out fully paid spaces can be advertised to the same gender, for details: FAQ

START AND END TIME

Times are local time i.e. the times for Spain are in Spanish time.

We suggest an inbound group flight below, for anyone on this flight or at the airport at this time we arrange a complimentary transfer to the accommodation at 12:45pm. If you arrive later you will need to make your own way to the accommodation (we wait for the suggested flight if delayed)

Inbound flight 27.06.2025
Vueling 9:25am from London Gatwick (LGW) to Bilbao (BIO) landing at 12:25pm
Flight: VY6304

RETURN

The trip ends after breakfast and you will be transferred to Bilbao airport (approx 12 midday at the airport).

FOOD

Breakfast will be provided each day as well as dinners on 2 nights, you can buy packed lunches from the local shops. The local cuisine is diverse with strong Mediterranean features and influenced by the Romans and Arabs. Every region has a distinct cuisine with the most common ingredients being olive oil and garlic. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free can be catered for but will be a more limited choice. Some requirements cannot be met, please check before booking.

We need to be aware of all dietary requirements prior to booking, please email us to verify if they can be catered for first: info@outdooraholics.co.uk

THE PRICE INCLUDES:

• 6 nights accommodation in a Hotel/Guest House with twin ensuite rooms
• Breakfast each day
• 2 group dinners
• Hikes by trained local English speaking mountain guides
• Local tourist taxes
• Compliance with the 2018 Package Travel Regulations including Financial protection
• Complimentary airport transfer at the start for everyone taking the suggested flight option
• Private minibus transport throughout the trip and back to Bilbao

THE PRICE EXCLUDES:

• Flights
• All lunches - for the hiking days you can choose your own favourite items in the local shops
• Dinners on 4 nights - where you can choose your own favourite restaurants and cuisine
• Extra optional excursion to Monastery San Juan de la Peña & Jaca (50 Euros, payable to local company on trip). Optional extra of e-mountain bike hire (rates LINK)
• Drinks and personal expenses
• Travel insurance

INSURANCE

It is essential that you have travel insurance that covers the cost of emergency medical treatment and also the activity of hiking up to 2600 metres. It is also recommended that this covers illness, cancellation and curtailment. You will be required to provide a copy of this before the trip. Without it we cannot accept you onto the trip and no refund will be due in this case.

Outdooraholics cannot verify policies or what they cover so please confirm with your insurer. The guide accepting your policy is not an indication that we confirm it is valid or covers what we list, only your insurers can confirm this.

There are lots of insurers who cover hiking, for example the BMC: LINK
You will also need to ensure you have all valid documents to visit this country including a passport and Visa if you require one. Spain is within the EU.

SAFETY - Your guide is a trained hike leader. Outdoor activities involve a risk of personal injury. Please bring suitable hiking footwear and hiking clothes such as warm clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers - CLOTHING TIPS

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Discover one of Albania’s great gems - the coastline that extends along the Adriatic and Ionian sea. A dreamy mix of clear blue waters and pebbly beaches, secluded bays and caves waiting to be explored in our kayaks. Join us as we discover this unique blend of coastal shores, cliffs and walks on trails parallel to the Ionian sea with some beautiful panoramic views.

Hike the stunning coastal trail, visit the 100m deep Gjipe Bay canyon, kayak along the coast to hidden bays and swim in the bright blue waters of Albania. Get a close glimpse of a different pace of life and enjoy the famous Albanian hospitality and local traditions. Albania is considered by man to be Europe's last hidden gem, now is the perfect time to visit before it becomes as busy as Croatia just along the coast.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Stay on the coast near Dhermi - the Albanian Riviera
• Enjoy a scenic hike following the White Trail to the San Andreas Bay and swim in the dazzling blue waters
• Enjoy a private speedboat trip back along the coast after our hike
• Kayak along the coast stopping in a bay for lunch
• Spend a night in the vibrant capital Tirana
• Private transport throughout the trip with our own group minibus
• A small group limited to just 16 with an English speaking local Albanian Guide

HOLIDAY DESCRIPTION

Nestled between the turquoise waters of Italy and northern Greece and on the same coastline at Croatia, Albania is still a relatively undiscovered gem - think Croatia many years ago. From pebble/sandy Mediterranean beaches to rugged mountains, cliffs and caves it offers a tranquil and diverse experience in nature.

No need to compromise between a mountain or a beach holiday since this trip offers the best of both worlds. We enjoy the scenery beneath the towering coastal mountains as we kayak through the stunning crystal waters to Gjipe Bay and we have a hike included too.

This trip provides a balance between tranquillity and adventure as we have planned some exciting and optional activities. Choose from bathing under the Albanian sun or hire out power boats or do other watersports on the coast. You can also self explore the area or just enjoy the beach and sea. In the evening you have the beach bars and music to enjoy - it’s quite a party atmosphere at night.

Driving - There are several hours each way to the coast and back.

ITINERARY

Friday

Transfer from Tirana airport to Dhermi coastline where we check-in at our accommodation and enjoy our first evening on the coast, with its bars and restaurants.

The beach is famous for its crystal clear waters and blue sea.

Saturday

We kayak to one of the most stunning places on the coast - Gjipe Bay canyon. Here (tide permitting - it’s not always possible) we explore the Pirate’s Cave from the inside - a cave where pirates would seek shelter. The canyon gives off a hint of a mini Grand Canyon feeling with its red walls.

This afternoon we return to the beach with a range of activities awaiting, including (optional extras): SUP, wind surf, water skiing or just a relaxing afternoon at the beach. All water activities are subject to sea conditions and availability.

Sunday

Hike: Palase’s River Delta - Bay of San Andreas
Distance: 6 miles (9km)
Grading: Moderate
Ascent: 240m
Hiking time: 3 to 4 hours

This morning we start from the delta of Palase Beach, where the white beach pebbles and the turquoise waters make the perfect postcard picture. From there on we indulge in the scenery of woodlands, cliffs and the clear Ionian sea following the White Trail to San Andreas Bay. We have time to enjoy the bay and the sea before being collected by a speedboat for the ride back

We then arrive at the capital Tirana late evening where our guide departs and you can self explore this city and enjoy its nightlife.

Monday

The trip ends after breakfast in Tirana. You are welcome to extend your stay and explore the city or make your way to the airport.

COST & PAYMENT

£397. Click “Attend” and pay the £100 deposit by Paypal. The remainder is due by bank transfer within 7 days, we will send payment details once we receive your booking.

Trip payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. When the trip is sold out fully paid spaces can be advertised to the same gender, for details: FAQ

START AND END TIME

Times are local time i.e. the times for Albania are in Albanian time

We suggest an inbound group flight from the 3 below, for anyone on one of these flights or at the airport at this time we arrange a complimentary transfer to the accommodation at 1:10pm (waiting for everyone to arrive from any of these 3 flights). If you arrive later you will need to make your own way to the accommodation (we wait for the suggested flight if delayed). Please note, if you choose the earlier flights, you will have a wait at the airport, we suggest enjoy a coffee or a snack

Inbound flights 27.06.2025

Wizzair 5:55am from London Luton (LTN) to Tirana (TIA) landing at 10:00am
Flight: W95002

British Airways 7:50am from London Heathrow (LHR) to Tirana (TIA) landing at 11:50am
Flight: BA928

Ryanair 9:00am from London Stansted (STN) to Tirana (TIA) landing at 12:55pm
Flight: FR8288

RETURN

The trip ends in Tirana on Monday after breakfast and you are welcome to make your own arrangements to the airport (bus or taxi) or if holiday permits you can extend your stay for a night and explore this city.

FOOD

Breakfast will be provided each day, and 2 picnic lunches on Saturday and Sunday. You are welcome to explore the local cuisine for dinner each evening. The local cuisine is Mediterranean with influences from Italian, Greek and Turkish cooking. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free food can be catered for. Some dietary requirements such as lactose free and nut free cannot be catered for.

We need to be aware of all dietary requirements prior to booking, please email us first to check if they can be catered for: info@outdooraholics.co.uk

THE PRICE INCLUDES:

• 2 nights' accommodation in twin en-suite rooms near Dhermi
• 1 night accommodation in twin en-suite rooms in the capital Tirana
• Breakfast daily and 2 picnic lunches
• Boat ride from San Andreas/Grama Bay
• Kayaking - instruction and also kayak hire and kit hire
• Compliance with the 2018 Package Travel Regulations including Financial protection
• Complimentary airport transfer at the start for everyone taking the suggested flight option
• Private minibus transport throughout the trip and back to our hotel in Tirana

THE PRICE EXCLUDES:

• Flights
• Transfer to Tirana airport on the last day (taxis are cheap and there is a bus too)
• Dinner on Saturday and Sunday (Typically £10-£15 excluding drinks)
• Optional extra activities - (as available, at cost - you pay the provider): SUP, wind surf, water skiing
• Drinks and personal expenses
• Travel insurance

INSURANCE

It is essential that you have travel insurance that covers the cost of emergency medical treatment and also the activity of kayaking (Level 1) and hiking. It is also recommended that this covers illness, cancellation and curtailment. You will be required to provide a copy of this before the trip. Without it we cannot accept you onto the trip and no refund will be due in this case.

Outdooraholics cannot verify policies or what they cover so please confirm with your insurer. The guide accepting your policy is not an indication that we confirm it is valid or covers what we list, only your insurers can confirm this.
There are lots of insurers who cover kayaking and hiking, for example the BMC: LINK

You will also need to ensure you have all valid documents to visit this country including a passport and Visa if you require one. Albania is NOT within the EU.

SAFETY - Your guide is a trained hike leader. Outdoor activities involve a risk of personal injury. Please bring suitable hiking footwear and hiking clothes such as warm clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers - CLOTHING TIPS

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TERMS AND CONDITIONS - By signing up or attending you agree to these

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To see other attendees on the trip, please check the following LINK

Experience the untamed beauty of Cornwall – where rugged cliffs meet azure waters, charming fishing villages are tucked away in secluded coves, and the world’s largest indoor rainforest awaits. With its 300-mile coastline – the longest in the UK – Cornwall's ancient Celtic heritage blends with dramatic coastlines, creating a landscape that has captivated explorers and dreamers for centuries.

Our journey weaves through Cornwall's finest treasures, where nearly a third of the landscape is designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Follow in the footsteps of Victorian coastguards along the legendary South West Coast Path, recognised among National Geographic's 100 Hikes of a Lifetime. Here, towering cliffs dive into the ocean blue Atlantic, sheltering pristine sandy coves and time-forgotten fishing villages that still pulse with maritime tradition.

We shall also visit the Eden project which has been voted by the British Travel Awards as the "Best UK Leisure Attraction" for 5 years in a row. It is a global collection of plants inside 2 vast atmospheric biomes that nestle in a crater the size of 30 football pitches. It contains the world's largest indoor rainforest with waterfalls and steamy jungles with a canopy walkway so you can also walk above the treetops.

Join us in a truly spectacular weekend trip exploring some of Cornwall’s best features and let us show you the best that Cornwall has to offer.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore breathtaking sections of Cornwall's renowned Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)
• Walk along the iconic South West Coast Path, enjoying sweeping ocean views, secluded coves, and picturesque fishing villages.
• Discover the historic town of Fowey, with its enchanting estuary views and connections to literary legend Daphne du Maurier who lived here.
• Stay in a charming off-the-beaten-track hostel, just a short stroll from a secluded, sandy beach.
• Experience the Eden Project (optional extra), home to the world’s largest indoor rainforest and a celebration of global biodiversity
• Enjoy a scenic ferry ride on the Fowey River, surrounded by peaceful waters and charming views.
• Stroll through peaceful woodland trails along Pont Pill Creek, soaking in the serenity of this hidden gem
• Immerse yourself in Cornwall's rich Celtic heritage and maritime history

WEEKEND DESCRIPTION

Cornwall is a land of wild beauty and ancient heritage, where the Atlantic Ocean crashes against 300 miles of dramatic coastline, dotted with hidden coves and timeless fishing villages. Surrounded by sea on three sides, this magical corner of the UK is steeped in Celtic tradition and history, with its own language, Kernowek, and a rich maritime culture.

Our adventure begins in the heart of Cornwall’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where we’ll stay in a secluded, charming hostel in the picturesque village of Boswinger. Surrounded by lush countryside and within walking distance of serene beaches, it’s the perfect setting for exploring. We’ll hike the South West Coast Path, following cliff-top trails with sweeping ocean views, and uncover hidden gems like the golden sands of Hemmick Beach and the charming harbour of Mevagissey. Along the way, we’ll discover Cornwall’s unique cultural heritage, including the inspiring landscapes that captivated Daphne du Maurier. Our journey ends at the extraordinary Eden Project, where the world’s largest indoor rainforest thrives in a former china clay pitл

ITINERARY

Thursday

Arrive at our exclusively booked hostel, nestled in peaceful countryside, with a tranquil beach at the end of a winding country road. This idyllic location, surrounded by serene nature, offers easy access to secluded beaches within walking distance.

Friday

Hike: Boswinger circular
Distance: 13 miles (21km)
Grading: Intermediate, tough hills
Ascent: 860m
Hiking time: 5 to 6 hours

Today we set off from the hostel, heading towards the rugged coastline. Our adventure begins with a walk along Hemmick Beach, a secluded stretch of sand surrounded by dramatic cliffs. The path follows the South West Coast Path, weaving through the spectacular scenery of rocky coves, charming fishing villages and emerald waters. We reach the enchanting Vault Beach, cradled within its serene cove, before continuing to Dodman Point, the highest headland on Cornwall’s south coast. Standing at 374 feet, it offers sweeping views across the coastline and the vast Atlantic. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Lizard Peninsula and Rame Head, a horizon stretching 158km.

As we follow the rugged cliffs to Gorran Haven, we pass Great Perhaver Beach, Colona Beach and the seaside village of Portmellon, each offering a unique view of Cornwall’s varied coastline. The charming fishing village of Mevagissey, with its narrow streets and bustling harbour, marks the end of our hike, before we head inland back to our hostel, immersed in the beauty and history of this ancient coastal landscape.

Saturday

Hike: Fowey Circular
Distance: 6 miles (9km)
Grading: Beginners/Intermediate
Ascent: 320m
Hiking time: 3 hours plus two ferry journeys

Today’s hike is a classic Cornish experience. Starting in the picturesque town of Fowey, we cross the river by ferry to Bodinnick, where we hike upwards to a viewpoint offering breathtaking vistas over the sparkling estuary. As we follow the northern bank of Pont Creek, the shaded woodlands and tranquil surroundings bring a sense of peace to our journey. We continue past the hamlet of Pont, where the historic St Wyllow Church adds a sense of ancient spirituality to the landscape.

Crossing the river at Pont, we join the South West Coast Path, which reveals sweeping ocean and estuary views. The path leads us towards the quiet village of Polruan, where we board the ferry back to Fowey, reflecting on the ever-changing views of this idyllic corner of Cornwall.

Sunday

We spend our final day at the Eden Project, an extraordinary fusion of nature and innovation. Explore the world’s largest indoor rainforest and greenhouse, teeming with tropical plants from across the globe. Wander through two stunning biomes, where you’ll encounter everything from banana trees to olive groves. With over 135,000 plants housed in biomes covering an area equivalent to 30 football pitches, this extraordinary site is a true marvel of sustainability and biodiversity. You have time to enjoy inspiring exhibits and serene landscapes at your own pace before returning back to London, enriched by Cornwall’s wonders.

COST & PAYMENT

£298. Click “Attend” to pay the £30 deposit by PayPal. The remainder is due by bank transfer within 7 days, we’ll email payment details once your booking is processed.

Trip payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. When the trip is sold out fully paid spaces can be advertised to the same gender, for details: FAQ

TRANSPORT, ACCOMMODATION AND START TIME

The trip starts at the venue and you will need transport to the hikes & Eden.
Lift share discussion - to offer/request lifts

The accommodation address is at the top of this page, you are welcome to arrive from 7pm or any time later.

FOOD

Breakfast and packed lunches are included in the cost and will be provided for Friday, Saturday and Sunday (except the Sunday lunch at the Eden project). Dinner on Saturday night is also provided. You will need money for drinks, lunch at the Eden project and dinner on Friday night.

Breakfast is healthy and nutritious - typically cereal, porridge with fresh fruit, berries, nuts and seeds, fresh fruit salad, free range eggs, yogurt, toast and coffees, teas etc.

For lunch we provide fruit, crisps, cereal bars and a range of options to make your own sandwiches typically tomatoes, cucumber, houmous, peanut butter, honey, jam, ham, cheese and salami.

After the hike we enjoy Cream Teas - an English delicacy consisting of scones, clotted cream and jam, a tasty treat!

Meals are meat based with vegetarian options. To find out if the food being provided meets your intolerance/allergies/preferences/likes/dislikes etc, please email us. You are welcome to bring your own favourite items to meet specific requirements and there is a fridge and kitchen you can use.

THE PRICE INCLUDES:

• 3 nights hostel accommodation (4 and 6 bedded single gender rooms)
• Breakfast on Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• Tea (including herbal) and coffee
• Packed lunches on Friday and Saturday
• Dinner on Saturday night
• Hikes by trained guides
• Compliance with the 2018 Package Travel Regulations including Financial protection

THE PRICE EXCLUDES:

• Transport to, from and during the trip
• Dinner on Friday night
• The Fowey ferry journeys on Saturday (about £4.50)
• Lunch at the Eden Project Café
• Entry to the Eden Project which we have arranged at a heavily discounted group rate of £26 (if 15 or more) (standard price is £42)

SAFETY - Your guide is a trained hike leader. Outdoor activities involve a risk of personal injury. Please bring suitable hiking footwear and hiking clothes such as warm clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers - CLOTHING TIPS

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Outdooraholics have hosted over 33 trips at this iconic mansion since 2013, making it the most popular hiking weekend of any Meetup groups in all of Europe. Let us show you why!

Welcome to the Lake District - a UNESCO World Heritage landscape that has captivated artists, poets, and adventurers for centuries. Our home for the weekend is a breathtaking Victorian mansion nestled on the banks of Lake Derwent. From here, we’ll explore England’s largest and most spectacular National Park, where rugged peaks reflect in pristine lakes, and every trail unveils stories of natural beauty and human creativity. Join us and discover why the Lake District is the birthplace of British mountaineering, attracts 18 million visitors annually, and has inspired legendary figures like Turner, Wordsworth, and Beatrix Potter.

The focus of this trip is on fun, enjoying our lakeside country mansion location and some great hiking all from the hostel door.

HIGHLIGHTS

• A 3 night long weekend adventure – make the most of the Bank Holiday
• Stay in a historic Victorian mansion surrounded by lush woodland near Lake Derwent. We have hired this mansion exclusively for our group
• ALL hikes circular directly from the hostel – NO CARS required!
• Fully catered trip with delicious meals, including a group barbecue on Sunday
• Experience England’s largest National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Visit iconic spots like Catbells and Causey Pike with breathtaking views
• Discover diverse landscapes: rugged peaks, tranquil lakes, and lush valleys
• Explore the Newlands Valley, backdrop to Beatrix Potter’s tales
• Walk in the footsteps of mountaineering pioneers and Romantic poets

Video - LINK

WEEKEND DESCRIPTION

The Lake District, with its tapestry of towering fells, shimmering lakes, and lush valleys, promises an escape into one of England’s most cherished landscapes. Spanning 2,292 km², this National Park boasts twelve of England’s largest lakes, its highest mountain and its longest lake. Its glacier-carved valleys blend natural beauty with centuries of human cultivation, from Norse villages to sheep-grazed hills.

Our base, a magnificent lakeside Victorian mansion surrounded by woodlands, has a storied past dating back to 1886, having sheltered political refugees and wartime evacuees. Today, it welcomes
Outdooraholics, offering stunning views that have inspired generations of artists and adventurers.

We’ll hike iconic trails, ascend summits like Causey Pike and Catbells, and explore the Newlands Valley, where Beatrix Potter found inspiration. After meandering along Lake Derwent’s shimmering waters, we’ll stop in Keswick, a charming market town rich in Lakeland heritage.

ITINERARY

Friday

Arrive in the evening to our Country Mansion Hostel and we have time for drinks and socialising.

Saturday

Hike: Causey Pike
Distance: 9 miles (14km)
Grading: Tough/Mountain
Ascent: 820m
Hiking time: 4.5 to 6.5 hours

Today we venture into the picturesque Newlands Valley, a landscape immortalized in Beatrix Potter's tales and rich with mining history. We ascend Causey Pike, a fell with a unique summit - a narrow ridge revealing breathtaking panoramas of Derwentwater, Skiddaw, and the surrounding fells. The trail winds through terrain that has witnessed centuries of human and geological transformation. Ancient scree slopes hint at prehistoric life, with rare fossil discoveries waiting to be found.

There is an option to shorten the route (self-guide), ensuring everyone can enjoy the magnificent landscapes according to their ability.

We return to the Mansion Hostel where we will enjoy a delicious dinner, followed by an evening enjoying our lakeside rural location which is simply stunning.

Sunday

Hike: Lake Derwent
Distance: 9 miles (15km)
Grading: Beginner/Intermediate
Ascent: 170m
Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours

Today’s relaxed hike winds around the shores of 'Queen of the Lakes' - Derwentwater, offering views of its serene islands and fells mirrored in the water. We’ll visit the market town of Keswick, with its rich mining history and the world's largest pencil. There is an option to take a ferry ride to shorten the hike.

The day culminates with a tasty group barbecue back in the hostel.

Monday

Hike: Cat Bells
Distance: 5 miles (8km)
Grading: Intermediate
Ascent: 440m
Hiking time: 3 to 3.5 hours

Our final day takes us to Cat Bells. We’ll walk in the footsteps of Hugh Walpole, who called this area "a little paradise", and Beatrix Potter, who set her beloved character Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle on these very slopes. The summit offers a breathtaking panorama of Bassenthwaite Lake, Skiddaw, and the stunning landscapes that have inspired generations.

A relatively small hill, but a brilliant hiking day that leaves us at the hostel early afternoon with time to make the journey home.

COST & PAYMENT

£314. Click “Attend” to pay the £30 deposit by PayPal. The remainder is due by bank transfer on Wednesday 25th June. We will send you payment details for this 2 weeks before the payment deadline.

Trip payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. When the trip is sold out fully paid spaces can be advertised to the same gender, for details: FAQ

TRANSPORT, ACCOMMODATION AND START TIME

The trip starts at the venue and we are hiking from the hostel each day, so no transport needed during this trip. Whilst Outdooraholics cannot get involved with private lift shares, if you want to drive or request a lift share: Lift share discussion - to offer/request lifts

There are options to get public transport to Keswick then walk or get a short taxi to the hostel - Outdooraholics cannot be responsible for your choice of transport or any issues with that transport option.

The accommodation address is at the top of this page, you are welcome to arrive from 7pm or any time later. No access possible before 7pm.

FOOD

Breakfast and packed lunches are included and will be provided for Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Dinner on Saturday and Sunday night is also provided. You will need money for drinks for the trip.

Breakfast is healthy and nutritious - typically cereal, porridge with fresh fruit, berries, nuts and seeds, fresh fruit salad, free range eggs, yogurt, toast and coffees, teas etc.

For lunch we provide fruit, crisps, cereal bars and a range of options to make your own sandwiches typically tomatoes, cucumber, houmous, peanut butter, honey, jam, ham, cheese and salami.

After the hike we enjoy Cream Teas - an English delicacy consisting of scones, clotted cream and jam, a tasty treat!

Meals are meat based with vegetarian options. To find out if the food being provided meets your intolerance/allergies/preferences/likes/dislikes etc, please email us. You are welcome to bring your own favourite items to meet specific requirements and there is a fridge and kitchen you can use.

THE PRICE INCLUDES:
• 3 nights hostel accommodation (6 bedded single gender rooms with 1x8)
• Breakfast and packed lunches on Saturday, Sunday and Monday
• Tea (including herbal) and coffee
• Dinner on Saturday and Sunday evening
• Hikes by trained guides
• Compliance with the 2018 Package Travel Regulations including Financial protection

THE PRICE EXCLUDES:

• Transport to and from the trip

SAFETY - Your guide is a trained hike leader. Outdoor activities involve a risk of personal injury. Please bring suitable hiking footwear and hiking clothes such as warm clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers - CLOTHING TIPS

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