Shropshire Hiker Girls

Shropshire Hills Women's Walking Weekender

Fri, May 1 · 2:00 PM BST

The Bridges Youth Hostel, Ratlinghope, Shrewsbury, SY5 0SP, GB

# Shropshire Hills Women’s Walking Weekender

01–04 May 2026 | £390 per person
BOOK VIA THE ROSA WEBSITE: https://www.rayofsunadventures.com/event-details-registration/shropshire-hills-walking-holiday

Imagine…
Waking up to birdsong in a tucked-away corner of the Shropshire Hills. Stepping out into crisp morning air, lacing up your boots, and setting off with a group of women who are just as excited as you are to explore, laugh, and share the joy of being outdoors.

This isn’t just a walking holiday — it’s three days of switching off from the chaos, filling your lungs with fresh hilltop air, and letting your mind wander as your boots carry you over ridges, valleys, and ancient trails. It’s shared stories over mugs of tea, the sound of laughter in the pub after a day’s hike, and that warm, delicious tiredness you only get from a day in the hills.

Led by Janire from Ray of Sun Adventures and run in partnership with my lovely friend Anna from Wellness and Walking Holidays, this women-only adventure is about more than the miles — it’s about connection, confidence, and carving out time just for you.

## Your Base

We’ll be staying at YHA The Bridges, a cosy converted village school set in one of the last untouched rural paradises of Shropshire. Think roaring log fires, comfy bunks, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The hostel sits right on the Shropshire Way, so our walks start the second we step outside.

You’ll be sharing this peaceful hideaway with like-minded women who are here for the same reason you are: to escape, explore, and feel alive again.

## What’s Included

• 3 nights’ accommodation at YHA The Bridges
• Breakfast & packed lunch each day
• 3 guided walks with qualified Mountain Leaders
• Navigation of routes, safety support, and plenty of encouragement along the way
• A community of adventurous, supportive women with whom you can connect from the get-go via WhatsApp
• Goodie bags!!

## The Experience

Over the long bank holiday weekend, you’ll hike three incredible routes that showcase the very best of the Shropshire Hills:

• Adstone Hill – Your warm-up walk with sweeping views of Long Mynd, Stiperstones, and Corndon Hill. Big skies, rolling ridges, and maybe a few curious ravens.
• The Long Mynd – A full day’s ridge adventure, wild ponies, and lunch in the charming market town of Church Stretton.
• Stiperstones – A rugged, atmospheric ridge walk where legends meet jaw-dropping views.

When we’re not out exploring, you’ll have time to unwind — curl up with a book, nap, or share stories in the lounge. Evenings are spent at the friendly pub next door (dinners not included), the perfect place for good food and even better company.

## Who This Trip is For

This trip is for women who love the idea of an adventurous weekend but also value community, support, and laughter along the way. You don’t need to be the fastest hiker, but you should be comfortable with full-day walks on hilly terrain. Whether you’re coming solo or with a friend, you’ll be welcomed into the group from the moment you arrive.

## Key Details

Dates: 01–04 May 2026
Price: £390 per person
Location: YHA The Bridges, Ratlinghope, Shropshire
Board: Breakfast & packed lunch included
Difficulty: Intermediate–Advanced (daily distances 8.5–18km with up to 540m ascent)

## Full Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival & Adstone Hill Warm-Up Walk

• 2pm – 2.30pm: Arrive and settle in
• 2.30pm – 5.30pm: 8.5km intermediate circular walk with 170m ascent via the old Coach Road and Adstone Hill
• 6.30pm – 7.30pm: Optional group dinner at The Bridges pub (not included)

Day 2 – The Long Mynd

• 8am – 9am: Breakfast
• 9.30am – 3.30pm: 18km advanced circular walk with 540m ascent, including Pole Bank summit, wild ponies, and lunch in Church Stretton
• Evening: Relax at the hostel or join group dinner at The Bridges pub (not included)

Day 3 – Stiperstones

• 8.30am – 9.30am: Breakfast
• 10.30am – 2.30pm: 12km intermediate circular walk with 380m ascent, rugged ridge terrain, the legendary Devil’s Chair, and incredible views
• Evening: Final group dinner at The Bridges pub (not included)

Day 4 – Farewell & Optional Group Activity

• 9am – 10am: Breakfast
• No guided walk today — optional group visit to a local point of interest before heading home

## Booking Your Place

Spaces are limited and this popular women’s weekender usually sells out. Secure your place via the Wellness and Walking Holidays booking page with a £100 deposit (full balance due 6 weeks before the trip).

Hike, E-Bike and Wine Tour in Tuscany

Sun, May 10 · 9:00 AM BST

Tuscany, Val d’Orcia, Italy, IT

Hike, E-Bike and Wine your way through Tuscany’s iconic Val d’Orcia with Much Better Adventures x Ray of Sun Adventures. Over 5 nights you’ll wander medieval hill towns, cycle cypress-lined roads, hike the ancient Via Francigena and soak in natural hot springs. Along the way, tuck into long Italian lunches, sip Brunello in family-run vineyards and unwind at a countryside retreat with its own Etruscan cave spa. This is Tuscany at its most adventurous – with a little indulgence thrown in.

Location: Val d’Orcia, Tuscany, Italy
Duration: 5 nights
Difficulty: Easy
Group Size: Up to 14
From: £1,971 (excluding flights)

# 👉 Book your spot via Much Better Adventures

## Why you’ll love it

• Pedal through iconic rolling hills, vineyards and cypress-lined roads on an e‑bike; wander Renaissance hill towns like Pienza and Montepulciano.
• Hike a stretch of the ancient Via Francigena, passing olive groves en route to the natural hot springs of Bagno Vignoni.
• Feast on local specialities and savour world‑class wines at hand‑picked family‑run estates and trattorias across the Val d’Orcia.
• Unwind at a countryside retreat with a unique Etruscan cave spa – perfect for post‑adventure relaxation.
• For the full trip details, inclusions, and availability, click through to the Much Better Adventures page here.

## What’s included

Activities & Certified Guides

• All itinerary activities with local, expert, English‑speaking guides

Accommodation

• 5 nights in a locally‑run Tuscan spa hotel (pool & wellness centre)

Meals

• All breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners and 3 wine tastings

Transfers

• Group transfer to/from Pisa Airport and everything in between

Equipment

• E‑bikes with helmets provided

Small like‑minded groups

• Solo‑friendly by design; join up to 14 active, outdoorsy people
• ROSA host
• ROSA goodie bag
• WhatsApp group to connect prior to take off.

## The plan (Itinerary)

> Note: routes and timings may vary due to weather and conditions. Distances/ascent are approximate.

### Day 1 – Into the heart of Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia (Travel Day)

Drive: ~2.5 hrs
Touch down at Pisa Airport and meet your driver around midday for the transfer to the UNESCO‑listed Val d’Orcia. Check into Hotel Residence Casanova in San Quirico d’Orcia – your spa‑equipped base for five nights. Stroll the medieval streets (spot the Gladiator filming backdrops) and tuck into a welcome Tuscan dinner.

### Day 2 – From vineyards to hot springs along the Via Francigena

Hike: ~4 hrs · 13 km · +250 m / −350 m
Set off from San Quirico d’Orcia through vineyards and olive groves along the Via Francigena. Visit a family farm for a light lunch with wine & olive oil tasting. Continue via Vignoni Alto to the thermal village of Bagno Vignoni – relax by the Parco dei Mulini hot springs. Optional spa back at the hotel; free evening in town.

### Day 3 – E‑bike between rolling hills and Renaissance towns

Ride: ~4 hrs · 36 km · +700 m / −650 m
Swap boots for e‑bikes: call by the famous Gladiator viewpoint and the Chapel of Vitaleta. Stop in Pienza, then on to Monticchiello for a picnic lunch. Roll to San Biagio and into Montepulciano for a well‑earned wine tasting, before returning to San Quirico for a chilled evening.

### Day 4 – Hike from Montalcino to Sant’Antimo

Hike: ~3 hrs · 10 km · +170 m / −390 m
Transfer to Montalcino (home of Brunello). Follow ancient woodland trails past vineyards and an Etruscan site to Villa a Tolli for an organic farm lunch (plus a glass of Brunello). Continue downhill to the Abbey of Sant’Antimo to explore its beautiful interior. Afternoon at leisure back at the hotel/spa.

### Day 5 – Cycle to San Casciano thermal springs

Ride: ~4 hrs · 32 km · +800 m / −800 m
Short transfer to Radicofani; pedal scenic lanes via Celle sul Rigo to San Casciano dei Bagni, famed for its natural hot springs. Time to soak before riding back to Radicofani and returning to San Quirico. Final celebratory dinner in town – buon appetito!

### Day 6 – Return to Pisa, via stunning Siena

Drive: ~2.5 hrs (with Siena stop)
After breakfast, transfer to Siena for a stroll around Piazza del Campo and lunch (not included). Continue to Pisa Airport for evening flights or extend your stay.

👉 Book your spot via Much Better Adventure

Mount Toubkal 6 Day Expedition

Tue, Jun 9 · 9:00 AM BST

Morocco, Marrakesh, MA

An unforgettable Moroccan mountain expedition. A summit above 4,000m. A journey into the heart of the Atlas.

### ✨ The Adventure Awaits...

Join me, Janire, for a once-in-a-lifetime trek to the summit of Jebel Toubkal (4,167m)—the highest peak in North Africa—on a 6-day small-group expedition led by the expert team at 360 Adventures. North Africa’s highest peak stands tall in the Atlas Mountain range; the pinnacle of this stunning trekking loop across 3 days. Top and tailed by a colourful explore of Marrakech for an authentic Moroccan experience.

From the vibrant chaos of Marrakech’s souks to the quiet stillness of the High Atlas Mountains, this journey offers so much more than a climb. It’s an immersion into Berber culture, rugged trails, ancient villages, and a summit that rewards every step.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or looking for your next big challenge—this trip is for you. 🌍

### 📅 Trip Details

• Dates: 9th–14th June 2026
• Duration: 6 days (4 trekking days)
• Group Size: Small & supportive (min. 6 to run)
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (4000m+ altitude)
• Style: Fully guided, locally led & ethically run
• Starting Point: Marrakech, Morocco
• Cost: £1045, flights can be added from £250

### 🗺️ Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech. Explore the medina or relax before the trek.
Day 2: Transfer to Imlil, meet our mule team, and begin trekking to the refuge.
Day 3: Acclimatisation day & optional side hike.
Day 4: Summit Day! Early start to climb Mt Toubkal (4,167m) & return to refuge.
Day 5: Hike back to Imlil and return to Marrakech.
Day 6: Departure day (or extend your Moroccan adventure!).

### 🌟 Why Toubkal?

• 🏔️ 4,000m+ summit in a short itinerary
• 🐪 Trek with local guides & mule support
• 🫖 Immerse in Berber hospitality & mountain life
• 🌿 Ethical & sustainable travel with 360 Adventures

### 🎉 Bookings Now Live!

No more waiting — it’s time to lock in your adventure. If trekking to the highest peak in North Africa is calling your name, you can now secure your spot here:👉 Click here to book your Toubkal Trek

✅ Book your place today
✅ Grab your hiking boots — it’s happening!
✅ Start the countdown to the mountains

### 📚 Want to Find Out More?

Curious about what it’s like? Check out blogs, stories, and detailed info about the trip here:👉 Read more about the Toubkal Trek

Snowdonia / Eryri Walking Weekender

Fri, Jun 26 · 2:00 PM BST

Dinorwig Power Station, Caernarfon, GB

# Snowdonia Weekender: A Three-Day Walking Escape

26–28 June 2026 | £380 per person
BOOK VIA THE ROSA WEBSITE: https://www.rayofsunadventures.com/event-details-registration/snowdonia-hiking-weekender

Breathe in the crisp mountain air, hear the crunch of your boots on slate and stone, and feel the pull of Snowdonia’s wild beauty as you spend three days exploring one of the most breathtaking corners of Wales.

This is more than just a walking trip — it’s a weekend of connection, adventure, and awe. We’ll trace the footsteps of slate miners through UNESCO-listed landscapes, tackle a classic Snowdonia mountain circuit, and end with a lakeside wander and a soul-soothing sauna session.

Led by Janire from Ray of Sun Adventures and run in partnership with my lovely friend Anna from Wellness and Walking Holidays, this adventure is all about shared experiences, stunning views, and that feeling of coming away from a weekend completely recharged.

## Your Base

We’ll be staying at The Lodge Dinorwig Hostel — a small, independent gem with cosy beds, comfy sofas, and home-cooked meals made with love.

• Accommodation: 1 bunkroom with 14 solid-wood bunk beds, each with a privacy curtain.
• Meals: Fully catered — breakfast, packed lunches, and dinners all included.
• Atmosphere: Friendly, relaxed, and perfectly placed for walking straight from the door into the heart of Snowdonia.

## What’s Included

• 2 nights’ accommodation at The Lodge Dinorwig Hostel
• All meals from Friday dinner to Sunday lunch (breakfasts, packed lunches, and evening meals)
• 3 guided walks with a qualified Mountain Leader
• Navigation of routes, safety cover, and a welcoming, supportive atmosphere
• Final-day sauna session at Sauna Bach on the banks of Llyn Padarn, with the option for a refreshing cold-water dip
• A community of adventurous, supportive women with whom you can connect from the get-go via WhatsApp
• Goodie bags!!

## The Experience

Over the weekend, we’ll explore the best of Snowdonia’s variety — from slate quarry history to high mountain ridges and tranquil lake trails:

• Day 1 – Dinorwig Quarry Explorer: A gentle but fascinating warm-up through one of the most dramatic industrial heritage sites in Wales.
• Day 2 – Elidir Fawr & Marchlyn Mawr Horseshoe: A challenging full mountain day with sweeping views and four distinct summits.
• Day 3 – Llyn Padarn & Padarn Country Park: A scenic, history-rich lakeside circuit followed by a sauna session and optional wild swim.

## Who This Trip is For

This weekend is perfect for hikers who enjoy a mix of challenge and relaxation. You’ll need a reasonable level of fitness for the mountain day, but we keep the pace steady and supportive — there’s no racing to the top here.

Whether you’re coming solo or with a friend, you’ll find a welcoming group and plenty of opportunities to share stories, laughs, and maybe even a cold-water dip at the end.

## Key Details

Dates: 26–28 June 2026
Price: £380 per person
Accommodation: The Lodge Dinorwig Hostel
Board: Full board
Group Size: 12 spaces available
Difficulty: Intermediate–Advanced (walks range from 6.5km to 14.5km with up to 760m ascent)
Booking: All bookings are taken via the Wellness and Walking Holidays website

## Full Itinerary

Day 1 – Dinorwig Quarry Explorer

• 2.30pm – 5.30pm: 6.5km loop (280m ascent) through the UNESCO-listed Dinorwig Quarry — a striking landscape of slate, history, and hidden corners.
• 6.30pm – 7.30pm: Home-cooked dinner at the hostel.

Day 2 – Elidir Fawr & Marchlyn Mawr Horseshoe

• 8am – 9am: Cooked breakfast.
• 9.30am – 4pm: 14.5km circuit (760m ascent) of the Marchlyn Mawr reservoir, taking in four summits including Elidir Fawr. Big mountain views, rugged ridges, and a true Snowdonia adventure.
• Evening: Home-cooked dinner at the hostel.

Day 3 – Llyn Padarn & Padarn Country Park + Sauna Bach

• 8am – 9am: Breakfast.
• 9.30am – 2.30pm: 11.5km lakeside and woodland walk (210m ascent) through Padarn Country Park, with views of Yr Wyddfa and peaceful shoreline paths.
• Finish: 2.30-4.30pm: Sauna Bach session on the lake’s edge — with the option to take a revitalising dip before heading home.

## Booking Your Place

Spaces are limited for this women’s weekender in Snowdonia. Secure your place via the Wellness and Walking Holidays booking page with a £100 deposit (full balance due 6 weeks before the trip).rt date, and all travellers will be asked to confirm they’ve read and understood the booking conditions.