Each January Mark and I sit down and come up with list of things that we would like to achieve over the coming year, not really New Years resolutions, but more a plan of trips, new routes and places to explore.

Since moving to the edge of the Yorkshire Dales a few years ago, we have started doing a lot more mountain biking, and one of the items on our list was to try a mountain biking event. So last weekend saw us in Kington, to have a go at the Marin Rough Ride. We (okay I) choose this one because the website said We dont mind what speed you go, you are here to enjoy yourselves, perfect!

With the Offas Dyke Path (ODP) running through the heart of this beautiful countryside we decided to make a break out of it, and also spend a few days exploring the ODP whilst we were there. I grew up just a stones throw away from the ODP, but like most things on our doorstep, I had never ventured along it.

The Rough Ride started up on Hergest Ridge, which forms part of the path, offering great views in all directions. The weather was perfect and spirits were high, the route was a big figure of eight that criss-crossed over the ODP many times during the day, with great views on the Black Mountains in the distance. It was a great weekend, and whilst we were packing up the tent, we both agreed that we would be back to explore more of the area and walk some more sections of the Offas Dyke Path.

Life here at Cicerone is great, and with the chance to get out of the office from time to time to meet some of our trade customers, its always good fun. Cicerone author Kev Reynolds describes himself as having the best job in the world, but I think I would give Kev a pretty good run for his money on that statement.

I’ve recently had a few days in the Loch Lomond National Park talking to customers about Cicerones new guidebook Walking Loch Lomond and the Trossachs by Ronald Turnbull. On the drive up, the weather was perfect with hardly a cloud in the sky, and the view across the Loch was breathtaking.

Like so many of us, I too am guilty of heading through this beautiful region on my way to the popular areas of north-west Scotland, but this trip made me realise just what I had been missing out on – a great network of cycling trails, a rewarding mixture of hills and mountains all easily reached from the South, and spectacular views. Whilst the mountains may not be as rugged as their northern counterparts, they make an excellent introduction to the highlands of Scotland.

So next time you are heading to the north-west of Scotland, don’t forget to plan in a few extra days to explore the hills and glens of the Loch Lomond National Park, I know I will.

Regards

Sarah