Very often there is a level of horsemanship needed for these trips. At the very least you will need to know how to tack up but you defintiely don’t need to be ready to step out at Badminton!

So the first option is something called unguided trail riding. You get given a horse, a map, directions and the somewhat vague promise that dinner, your bed and perhaps more importantly your luggage will be waiting for you at the designated B+B… The beauty of this is that you have to do everything yourself. Open the gates, manoeuvre through, past or round other livestock and also sort your horse out in the evening.

So where is this happening? Over in the Welsh Hills of Radnorshire. There is a company called “Free Rein” who sort everything out for you and are an absolute joy to go with too.
The horses themselves are incredibly well trained and are tolerant of pretty much everything whether that be motorcycles, other animals and tractors.
As you set off the horses easily get into their stride and it all pretty much all your can do to remember that you are the one that needs to offer directions. Map reading skills are a pretty good added bonus as depending on the weather the hills can be a pretty bleak place to spend the night! Having said that you are given a load of directions that should help out if your year 8 geography has slipped your mind.
The Roast Ox Inn, in Painscastle, is a delightful place to have a bit of refreshment and the fantastic thing is that there are more horse parked up than cars!
Throughout the day you are likely to see red kites effortless gliding in the sky, cross rivers and streams, pound through fields full of sheep, cross farm yards and down bracken strewn paths.
Your over night stop off is in Rhulen where you will find buckets of food and grooming brushes for the horses already set out in the stables. Once the most important creatures have been dealt with (the horses obviously), you can then look after yourself with a hot bath over looking the stunning scenery followed by a delicious three course meal that is strongly reminiscent of being at home. What more could you want after a long day in the saddle?

After a long and incredibly deep and peaceful sleep day 2 sees you heading back to your starting point to be reunited with your luggage and your car however it would be pretty dull if you went the same way you had come. Instead you head to Llanbedr Hill via rocky outcrops and glassy pools. Lunch is once again in Painscastle (there are 5 different pubs to head to) and then back home. Talk about a rewarding, tiring and exhilarating weekend away.

So, if you want to go further afield and somewhere slightly different where should you head to:

1) Botswana would be a good one although you need to be a pretty good intermediate level.
The vast plains of Botswana are perfect for the extra speed and distances covered by horses. You can go on a four day riding safari across the Kalahari meeting bushmen, learning how to gather food, have a go at animal tracking and even going hunting. You are accompanied with a “San” bushman who will guide and track all sorts of animals from springbok, leopard, wildebeest and even cheetah. If you are interested then check out Equine Adventures.

The second option is Morocco.
Although not strictly horse related how many people do you know have been trekking on a camel? Something different for sure, especially as you would be making headway through the seemingly mystical Sahara Desert. 7 hour days savouring the unique ambiance of the desert ploughing through sand dunes and kasbahs and spending nights under canvas. Unlike other trips you are required to have a good level of fitness. Conveniently enough head to Best of Morocco for more info.

Moving on from Africa I would also have a look further west in South America. There are so many great things to do in Costa Rica and riding is defintiely doable, although perhaps not quite how you thought. This trip is a family friendly one for kids and adults alike. Imagine the kids reactions as they plod on through cloud-forests, Savannah and plantation lands. You can also stay on a ranch allowing you all to try a loud of different activities including kayaking, snorkeling, wild life spotting and canopy tours. A real all action activity packed trip. Its not cheap but Equitour will sort you out.

For those of you who want to learn how to ride why limit yourself to doing it in rainy England? And while you are at it have a wee go at dolphin and whale watching coupled with some other fantastic excursions on the little known and visited Portuguese islands the Azores. While learning to ride you will stay in a traditional local quinta that has the riding school attached. To book have a look at In the Saddle.

Last up, riding but not quite how you or I would really imagine it….How does sitting astride the biggest beast of them all sound? Becoming a “mahout” in Laos learning to ride an elephant! Becoming a Mahout though is more than just riding, you become responsible for its upkeep including feeding it, bathing it and looking after it’s every whim. The 3 day course takes place in the ecolodge in Luang Prabang under the careful guidance of experienced Mahouts. If you are interested in something as different as this then head to the aptly named Mahout Lodge.

Remember if you decide to try any of these or other activities then please get travel insurance as it is pretty easy to fall and hurt yourself.

However, the other thing that makes it such a wonderful place is that it gets better in winter.
Did you know that the Pembrokeshire coastline is the only protected coastline in the country? It is also one of 15 national parks and has more blue flag or seaside award winning beaches than any other county in the country. OK so you probably aren’t going to run down the beach and dive head first into the sea at any opportunity but, it does mean that you are going to get some breathtaking views.

Pembrokeshire is Wales’ oldest landscape. This means that wherever you go, be it bike, walk, climb or kayak you will stumble across some kind of geological, archeological or historical stunning landscape.

The Coast Path running around the coastline snakes and meanders for a staggering 186 scenic miles. on the one side you have the rugged and often treacherous looking cliffs and drop offs while just inside that is the lush green Welsh countryside. There are 100m limestone cliffs interspersed with golden sanded beaches and beautiful ancient woodland.
I am not suggesting that you try and walk the full 186 miles as it would take a good two weeks to do that, especially in winter but as you might expect some parts are better than others for an adventure break.

The classic and most often quoted part I would say is St Govan’s. It is a climbing mecca as there are some classic routes and locations for all sorts of climbing including Deep Water Soloing

As well as the renowned climbing there is also lots to see too. The 6th Century Chapel is a must see highlight. It is a breathtaking view as it seemingly climbs for dear life at the foot of the cliffs plus there are the natural wave formations in the waves, Bosherston’s century-old “lily pond” and huntsman’s leap- the huge natural chasm between two limestone cliffs (although I wouldn’t recommend jumping off!)

For more information about what to do activity wise I would suggest having a little look at the local activity guide. This site has tidal timetables and all sorts of guides and maps to help you with mountain biking and other things too.
But remember it is not just for climbers and walkers, there is fantastic kayaking and surfing too so you need to be bold and take a closer look.

If you want somewhere to stay then check out the Lamphey Court Hotel and Spa at the top end, East Trewent Farm for middle of the road and Trefalen Farm for the camping option.

If you don’t want to rely on using your car then there is a public transport option. The Coastal Cruiser follows a circular route from the Castlemartin Peninsular stopping at all the best locations. It also stops in Pembroke so you can hop on it from the train station too. It rubs early in the morning and early evening running throughout the winter month sand even allows you to take your bikes and boards on it to.

So, as you can see, Pembrokeshire has so much to offer all through the year…so what areyou waiting for.

X1 Sports Insurance

A) So, you are in the mountains at a resort and don’t want to go to another location what can you do?
Loads of people head out mountain biking in the summer but how about adding that extra little twist and element of danger by doing in the snow and ice, downhill? Snow Mountain Biking has got a certain je ne sais quoi extreme ring to it doesn’t it?
I am all for a bit of downhill in the sun but unfortunately there are a couple of small modifications needed for your bike to take it out in the snow. First up you need to add some wide rims and then some fat tyres and possibly take a touch of air out to increase traction. The best place to do this is up in the US or its becoming ever more accessible in the Alps now too. If you are interested in doing it then check out Undiscovered Alps who can sort everything out for you in Orcieres. This guys will provide you with a bike so you can keep yours nice and warm and wrapped up at home. If you want to try it home after one of the current cold snaps then remember that an ice base with a soft, thin layer of snow on top. Easy!

B) Something else with a strong non ski essence that has been adapted is Snow Kiting.

Imagine kite surfing but on snow and in the mountains. Pretty cool if you ask me. A few months back I wrote an article about the TRAD Film Competition. One of the Athletes in that, Laurent Niol, has a penchant for Snow kiting and it looks wicked, although a touch tricky! Rather than the open spaces of the sea, you are a finite amount of space namely becasue of the scenery surrounding you (i.e mountains!).

You can be dragged along on either skis or boards but either way you are going to get to hit some serious speeds going downhill, or copy those kitesurfers and get some massive lift off on otherwise dull flat plateaus.
Once again Scandanavia is a top place to do it, more specifically Hardangervidda plateau in Norway with Fluid Feeling or in Switzerland the Swiss Snowkiting School can help you out too. Lastly if you want a specific snow kiting holiday then Snow Kiter can sort out a trip for you to the Langjokul Glacier in Iceland.

C) Any “alternative activity list” wouldn’t be complete with that classic activity of being dragged around by a few dogs would it now? Dog Sledding is that archetypal winter activity, especially if you are trying to get to the South Pole! Seriously though having been sledding it is great fun and very exhilarating, although I couldn’t help bit feel a little guilty about the effort the dogs were putting in! It is pretty scary grabbing hold of the reins for the first time but needless to say you get a fair amount of guidance as to how to look after and control the dogs.

However once mastered the feeling is exhilarating. the sense of raw power that you get from being pulled by the dogs is something unique and they really do fly along. Due to the accessibility options and the distances you cover these trips allow you to see parts of the the snowy wilderness you would never normally get the chance to experience. You can do dog sledding in pretty much every snow laced country and trips last from between 4 to 16 days. The typical countries tough are Finland, Sweden or several other Scandinavian options.
If you want to stay closer to home then check out the Cairngorm Sled dog Centre or other UK options

D) Last up then is something that is high up on my to do list. What with the winter Olympics on the way there is always one event that makes me sit up and say, ooh wouldn’t it be great to have a go at that. The main problem though is there aren’t that many places to do it. Not many resorts have their very own Bobsleigh run on the doorstep!

With speeds of upto 70mph, running at almost vertical angles left and right you could be excused the fear getting top you. however if you are still tempted then Innsbruck in Austria is probably the place to go. You can have go at being part of a 2 or 4 man team or, if you are really lost for things to do, take the 5 day course and learn to be a driver. For more information on how the UK are doing as well as competition results and of course the winter Olympics check out the official UK Bobsleigh team site.. There is always the added incentive that they are always on the hunt for fresh blood…I mean talent so you never know!!

I hope you enjoy these different options and of course stay safe.
Until next time

With so many possible locations and places to go and be amazed by it was a tough old choice. But after much thought and chatting to people I plumped for the Cairngorms!

The Old Forest Walk in Glen Tanar is a brilliant route and htis time of year the forest is a lush evergreen and can provide plenty of shelter is needed!
It’s not too long at about 5 or 6 miles and covers a windy well marked route. It winds through the Old Caledonian pine forest that once covered Scotland. you will get the chance to see red squirrels, Scottish crossbills, red and roe deer as well as Otters and Salmon in the Water of Tamar. the views are stunning and you will be charmed I am sure.

To start the walk go to the car park next to the Braeloine Visitor Centre (you can get maps, guides and other bits and pieces here) and follow the path through the forest out along the banks of the Tanar. The Tanar itself is a tumbling highland river full of giant boulders, deep pools and waterfalls so definitely remember to take your camera. The route continues past the tiny chapel of St Lesmo and the gradually ascends to the Knockie where you will get a fantastic view across the pinewoods. Follow the route downhill and through the glen and you will cross some beautiful stone bridges over the Tanar and Allachy Water. After an old stone shed the path forks taking you either down towards the villages of Aboyne and Dinnet to the right or through some grassy fields and close to the banks of the Tanar if you go to the left and want to finish the walk heading back to the visitor centre.

Whats great about this route is that there is an easy stop off point for food. the Boat Inn in Aboyne is a great traditional inn with a lovely restaurant serving locally sourced produce including steak, fish and cheeses.

If you want to spend the night then try the other local village, Dinnet. Loch Kinord Hotel has a two rosette restaurant, roaring log fires in the lounge and comfortable rooms that come with breakfast included.

for more information on the area have a look here:
http://www.visithighlands.com/aviemore

So, I hope that makes up for my failure to include something on Scotland last time.
Fingers crossed its not too late for you to get out and enjoy the walk.
have a lovely time.

First up lets have a nose at the New Forest:
Parking up at the Gunn Inn in Keyhaven you can cover one of the most beautiful stretches of the 60-mile Solent Way. The route itself is pretty flat as you follow the signposts highlighting the trail. What makes this special are the fantastic views looking over the water to the Isle of Wight on one side and the forest stretching out to the other. You can often encounter New Forest ponies grazing next to the sea and along the forest edge as it encroaches down to the path. The route itself can either be done in a circle through Lower Pennington and past Oxey Marsh all the way back to Keyhaven or just walk back the way you have come! Be prepared to see over wintering birds in the Lagoons including egrets, Canada and Brent geese, lapwings among others.

Food wise, chow down at the Gunn Inn but make sure you eat after your walk as the portions are pretty big and it will also mean you can work your way through the 240 malt whiskies they have on offer.
If you want to stay down there to make a weekend of it then the Stanwell House is a good bet.

For more information on the area have a look at:
www.newforestnpa.gov.uk

Next up lets have a look at the Lake District.
Have you ever braved the winds and rain in the Lake District? If not i wholeheartedly recommend it.
I would suggest strolling around the shores of Ullswater. You can start off with a 35 minute trip on the Ullswater steamer down to Howtown and from there walk back to Glenridding from where you started. the walk itself is a good 6.5 miles. The route is quite self explanatory as you take the path immediately on your right and then follow it so you have the lake on your right hand side. Views are initially across the water to the quaint village of Pooley Bridge and the wood covered Dunmallard Hill. Soon after you are encompassed by a semi natural woodland which offers protection form the elements where you stop and listen to the wonderfully relaxing sounds of the local wildlife (birds, squirrels and what not). After the woodland you crisscross fields and pick up bridleways until you once again get back to the water front.

Unfortunately there aren’t any pubs directly route but try the White Lion Inn, famed for it’s mouth watering steaks which is just after the farm on the main road.
If you want to stay up there the you can stay in Glenridding at the Glenridding Hotel.

To get some more information on the local area have a look at:
www.ullswater.co.uk
Or for more general info have a look at:
www.lakedistrict.gov.uk

It would be churlish now to miss out on Wales now wouldn’t it…
For me one of the most beautifully stunning places I have come across.
Obviously there are some seriously tough treks and walks in Snowdonia but how about this gradual 4.5 mile route?
Starting at the valley of Cwm yr Wnin and head off to Foel Ispri. Head out to Dolgellau on the A70 and then after the roundabout towards Porthmadog take a left turn following the track until you see a parking space before a farm. On the opposite side you will see a kissing gate which signals the start.
as you walk through some woodland get prepared for the absolutely breathtaking views. As you come out of the woodland onto the open mountainside looking up the Mawddach Valley you follow the wall to the left and then westwards to the summit of Y Garn. This vantage point offers you the stunning view of the Rhinogydd mountains to the south and the Aran mountains to the east. Once you finally recover from the view head south to Mawddach Valley over the stiles down to theheart of the Welsh gold mining industry at Foel Ispri. You can then head back through a farm on the public right of way.

If you want to sample some local produce then the Tyn-y-Groes provides a good location with a nice warming crackling fire.
For a really good, high end B+B find the old slate-cutting mill Graig Wen which is near to the Mawddach estuary.

To get some further information check out: www.snowdonia-npa.gov.uk

Well, I was going to add something on Scotland but with time running out for me to post this and benign pretty busy that will have to wait I am afraid.
Fingers crossed all this info is useful and I look forward to spreading some more pearls of wisdom soon

I know you need waves, wind and pretty dire swimming conditions but sometimes they beggar belief. I have been on the south coast and not been able to stand up let alone get to the beach and contemplate a quick dip and kite surf in the channel.

But check this video out…I beg you not to be impressed….

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/sussex/8362671.stm?ls

Remember…if you are foolish to try anything like this make sure you have the right insurance cover!!

The Festival is, unsurprisingly, in the wonderful setting of Kendal and there are lectures and film showcases in a whole host of different venues and locations across the city.
There is an incredible selection of high end top line speakers and lectures throughout the four days including people like:
Simon Yates, Major Phil Packer, Ueli Steck, Suzy Madge, Karina Hollekim and countless others!

The show piece film is the Asgard Project with Leo Holding.

http://www.theasgardproject.com/article/Leo_Houlding_announces_the_start_of_the_Asgard_Project

But it isn’t just limited to that.
there are over 50 plus films being shown as well as book show cases, award ceremonies and of course the ubiquitous party that ends up being incredibly messy and, more often than not, a good place to embarrass yourself!

For more information have a look at this link and tell me it doesn’t look good!!

http://www.mountainfest.co.uk/index.cfm?pageid=1

So what do you do to wile away the hours them and escape from this dark, cold cocoon surrounding us.
Plan your next trip away of course!!

At the moment if you pick up the weekend papers they are all jam packed with interesting things to do. Some are clearly focusing on the winter markets while others are spreading their wings a little further and giving advice for next summer and also interesting places to go this winter that doesn’t involve snow.
so, here are a few interesting options that i have dug up and looked into. There are so many different ideas out there that i am going to try and catagorise them. Obviously its definitely not exhaustive and there are loads of different and alternative options but perhaps these will give you just an idea.

First up is Mountain Biking:

So, close to home you have got Pembrokeshire. obviously the weather i snot ideal at the moment but do you really care if you are biking in the mud?
no i didn’t think so!
Park up at St Govan’s (or use the Coastal Cruiser) and then use the coastal path between Stack Rocks and St Govan’s Head. Admittedly this isn’t high end tip top mountain biking but it is a good weekend away in the wonderful Welsh countryside.
For more info on the area have a look at this link:

www.activitypembrokeshire.com

Next up Turkey.
If you are looking for something between April and October then head out to Cappadocia. There are numerous well marked trails for various different skill levels and fitness levels. Ad you hurtle down the routes be sure to have a glimpse of the local scenery as you are surrounded by rock pillars upto 40m high known as “fairy chimneys”.
If this floats your boat then check out:

http://www.cappadociaturkey.net

If you want somewhere a little bit further a field how about the lush, jungle world of Costa Rica?
It is definitely a country I want to go to as there is so much diversity, such much wildlife and so much to do.
There is an amazing 4 day bike trek, 389km, that crosses from the Pacific to the Caribbean. Oh and I forgot to mention its actually a race…! Ruta De Los Conquistadors.

http://larutadelosconquistadores.com/info

The last one I want to offer you is on the most random place I think.
Anyone I speak says this is the one of the most amazing places they have ever visited.
This trip allows you to go with the family, which obviously makes it a touch more pricey, but why not spend two weeks being active with the family.
Laos is one of the least visited country in East Asia. The only people who ever seem to visit Laos are a load of stoned backpackers who got lost on their way to Thailand or Vietnam.
This trip is fully supported and can be relaxing as there as several rest days to go swimming and even elephant riding.
have a look here:

http://www.grasshopperadventures.com/tours.php?country=Laos

So, fingers crossed this has given you food for thought.
Needless to say if you do any of these trips or one of your own make sure you are covered with the right insurance as it can be a really hard fall if you aren’t.

have a good weekend