Something else for winter…

January 4th, 2010

Firstly I hope you had a great Christmas and New Year.
I am sorry it has been a while since I last wrote but needs must, presents needed to be bought and turkeys stuffed so after much delay, here I go again…

Are you fed up with skiing and snowboarding (if that is possible). Are you lucky enough to go away on a two week winter holiday and want to do something a little bit different? Well after going to a friends house for dinner the other night I suddenly thought “Not everyone wants to ski every minute of their winter holiday”. So, what else is out there?
And this is what I found!! Although, given the different number of things I found I may have to split it into two different articles.

A) Ice Rally Driving:
Sound exciting hey…and it is. If you happen to be anywhere in France or Sweden you aren’t too far from somewhere that does it.
Everyone knows how cool Rally driving is…well imagine doing that on the ice. The back end kicks out, the wheels lock and the adrenaline most definitely kicks in! To give you a little bit of an advantage, as well as the studded tyres, you will learn how to do a decent power slide, opposite lock slides and lift off over steer (what?!).
If you are in France then you can have a blast in either the Three Valleys or Tignes with a company called Whitetracks:

Or if you happen to find yourselves in Sweden and want to fly around frozen lakes with a choice of two cars then Extreme Rally would be your best bet. These guys also give you the chance to have a shot on an ice karting grand prix and an instructor led passenger trip that will definitely get your stomach turning!

B) Most people probably have an idea as to what Snowmobiling is as it has featured on several different blockbuster films including some of the classic Roger Moore Bond, but actually, how many of us have actually done it? No I didn’t think so!

snowmobiling

As with the previous idea, if you are a bit of a petrol head then this is totally for you. Again, those pesky Scandies have got it wrapped and so it is the place to go along with Canada. These beasts can get up to almost 70mph and go from 0-60 in about 4 seconds, which is pretty impressive especially given the crazy terrain that you will be covering. There are all sorts of ways to experience these bad boys from half day blasts around a track or long tours clocking up over 800km in four days. Its a great way to experience something a bit different and see some real fantasy scenery. For those looking for even more of a buzz then you can go on some extreme trips in Norway, Finland and Sweden.

For more information checkout the links here:
Action Snowmobiling and Aventure Nord Quebec Organisation

C) Next up something that doesn’t rely on petrol and will definitley get the goose bumps jumping… Have you ever heard of those people who for some reason think its a great idea to go for a dip in the sea everyday of the year? Ever wondered why they do it, especially in winter? Well if I am going to be honest, that will seem positively Caribbean once you have done a bit of Ice Diving!

This is not some kind of gimmick, I can assure you. They literally cut a hole in the ice and in you go. Well, not quite straight away but you get my drift. This is meant to be the best and most serene type of diving available. The only thing that comes remotely close is a night dive but even that is incomparable. The views are truly breathtaking and the calm quiet world is just mesmerizing.

There are a few different options out there for anyone interested in doing it but understandably it isn’t the cheapest past time. Have a look at The Polar People who can whisk you off to Antarctica. If you are in the Alps, more specifically Tignes, and want a rest from the slopes then a local company, Tigne Plongee, can help you out.

The last option and possibly the best if you consider price and location is in The White Sea. The White Sea is in Northern Russia and is the only European Sea that gets covered with ice, that in itself is pretty cool. You can go on 6 day trips out there and get totally submerged in the experience

A cold looking White Sea

D) Last up I have plumped for something a little bit more relaxing but no less chilly! Fishing is the most popular sport in the UK. Yes I know, Google it now and you will see that I kid you not. If you want to combine the relaxing with the winter then head to Canada and Scandinavia (a theme here?) again. This activity really takes you back to basics as you cut a hole in the ice and then use lines, hooks or even spears to land the fish. Depending on where you go you can catch rainbow trout, northern pike, walleye and whitefish in Canada.

I would recommend going with Hooked on Canada if you head across the pond while a good option for Norway or Finland is Exodus.

Hopefully these ideas are useful and of interest. You must remember though that especially in winter the risks are enormous so please make sure you have the right insurance for the right activity!

I will be back in touch again soon, now that Christmas is out of the way with a few more ideas to make your nose tingle!

Happy New Year

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Posted in Adventure Travel, Europe, Ice Diving, Ice Rally driving, International, Russia, Snowmobiling, Winter | 1 Comment »

Snow Report in Whistler…!

December 14th, 2009

My my my, it’s looking good in the snow reports.
Whistler opened it’s lifts about two weeks ago and what with the Olympics on their way the only concern was whether the conditions would be right…and by God have they delivered. There is snow, snow and more snow…everywhere!!

To quote Anton Horvath, the local avalanche forecaster, “If you took your skis off outside you would literally sink to your armpits!”. By the end of November over 450cm of snow had fallen. That’s over 5m worth before the season has started. That amount equates to almost half the annual season snow fall in one hit and more than Zermatt in Switzerland had all last year.

Talking of Europe, there are definitely envious looks being cast over the Atlantic. The warm weather here has nailed the early snowfall and it is looking very sketchy to say the least. Last season was the flip of this, great early season snow while Whistler was in a snow drought. Following on from the disaster last year this year looks set to be a bumper triumph.

With the new £28m Peak to Peak cable car opened last year the resort is getting set for the Olympic arrival between 12th-28th February next year. However the strange thing about hosting the Olympics is that even though the prestige of the resort goes through the roof and the prices of the resort during the Olympic fortnight sky rocket, people tend to get cold feet about going there because they think it will be crazy busy, lots of building work and piste closures due to maintenance and “preferential treatment”.

So, should you go? If you want to go then get there early in the season as there are some fantastic deals out there. There are offers such as free upgrades, vouchers on food and drink, a few days lift passes and even some incredible price slashes. To make the most of this snow, prices and some of the best ski conditions in North America as well as being able to say that you have been to where the Olympics were, get your skis on!!

If you want to see what the conditions are like over in Whistler then have a look here:
http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/weather/forecast/index.htm

If you want to get some more info on the winter Olympics then have a click here:
http://www.vancouver2010.com

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Posted in Adventure Travel, US, Winter, skiing | 1 Comment »

Walking at Home (continued…)

December 10th, 2009

Well those of you who have any interest in what I am writing may remember what I wrote at the end of the last thread: I said that I wanted to add a walk in Scotland but I didn’t have the time so I thought I would revisit it and add a gem in now.

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.

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Posted in Adventure Travel, UK, trekking | No Comments »

Top 10 hit list

November 27th, 2009

Right before people wonder how on earth a mere mortal like me managed to take a poll don’t fret, I didn’t. However I have lifted it from somewhere else so please accept my sincerest apologies if this affects the credibility of the blog and all that jazz. In truth though, its a pretty good read and so I thought it was worth the punt.

First things first then, the credit for this little list goes to the guys at the Lonely Planet, without whom I would be less informed and my email in box would be a lot lighter! But to explain these are the places that the Lonely Planet readers want to visit in 2010, not where they have been, recommend or anything else!

So starting from the top then here we go:

1) South Africa- Even with the apparent crime risks it topped the pole but is that to do with the world cup being hosted there and all!

2) India- the home or Delhi belly, trustafarians wanting to find themselves on gap years and an absolutely amazing place to go and visit.

3) Colombia- A veritable undiscovered jewel in South America famed for large mustaches kidnapping, and drug barons in wonderful villas.

4) Jordan- Apparently its friendly, accessible and loads of fun surrounded by sand, palm trees and amazing historical ruins and relics.

5) Italy- A gem in Europe whether it be for a summer holiday, a romantic weekend retreat or even a spot of skiing. Bella!!

6) Panama- Again an up and coming South American destination. Its not just all about the canal you know, it’s a fabulous country and crying out to be visited.

7) China- Post the 2008 Olympics, China suddenly seems far more accessible but be warned it is still tough in the countryside and their diets definitley need to get used to but the rewards are extra ordinary.

8) Cuba- The ever popular destination for cheapish winter package holidays, but believe me there is far more there for the more ambitious traveler. Beautiful, romantic and a step back in time.

9) Costa Rica- Stunning, unexplored and varied. Rain forest next to mountains on top of beaches. Awe inspiring.

10) Kyrgyzstan- I cant even spell it let alone know anything about it but it is apparently an undiscovered paradise in central Asia. Give it a go for sure.

Finally it would be very churlish of me not to add in the Planet Link as you should give credit where credit is due:

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/asia/travel-tips-and-articles/42/18633?affil=lpemailcontent

So, all very interesting and fingers crossed it will get you thinking.
If you do visit any of these places, or have done let me know what they are like as I am always interested.

Happy traveling!

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Posted in Adventure Travel, Europe, International | 1 Comment »

Winter hiking at home

November 26th, 2009

So we had a look at some trekking trips all over the world in all different corners of the globe of which there are loads more (and I promise to revisit them soon). But seeing as winter is almost here I thought that perhaps we should look at some fantastic walks on our own fair shores.

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

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Posted in Adventure Travel, UK, trekking | No Comments »

Mega jump in Sussex

November 23rd, 2009

How many of you guys have been to Sussex then…or more importantly Worthing.
there is a pier in Worthing that is very similar to Palace Pier in Brighton, so if you have seen that then you will know the dimensions I am talking about.

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!!

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Posted in Adventure Travel, UK, kite sufing | No Comments »

Film Festivals

November 18th, 2009

So what actually happens at a film festival then?
That’s a good question, especially as the UK’s biggest and best outdoors film festival is just around the corner.
Kendal Film Festival has been doing what no other outdoor festival has managed to do for years, well since 1980 in fact.Following a hibernation period it came back to earth with a big hard bump in 1999 and has been growing ever since.
It is now without doubt the best one of its kind in the UK and possibly Europe too.

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

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Posted in Adventure Travel, Films, UK | No Comments »

A bit of fresh air now…

November 17th, 2009

So after the onslaught for the more adventurous souls I think it is time for us to look at trekking or walking.
But don’t get too relaxed as there are some pretty high octane ideas below which should definitely get the blood pumping round the body!

What inspires you more then, the location of the walk or the walk itself?
There are so many amazing places to go that i think I may well have to subdivide this into more than one entry but lets see how we get on and what I can and can’t cover.

First up is a jaunt over in Africa. It sounds more impressive that it is as the route itself is not particularly tricky having said that you get to see some rgeat wildlife and venture up to about 1000m high too. So, for a slow introduction head off to the Simien Mountains in Ethiopia. For a bit more information on the peaks have a look here:

http://www.worldheritagesite.org/sites/simien.html

Second up, keeping it in Africa we head over to Rwanda. The wildlife theme is definitely visible as the walk is more than justified by the end result. Remember “Gorillas in the Mist”? Well this is your chance to be in your very own movie. Rwanda has the highest number of habituated gorilla groups (seven to be precise) including the group made famous from said film. Don’t get me wrong, this is a seriously pricey trip but is a once in a life time opportunity. Furthermore permits are needed and consequently a fair amount of planning required, but by ek is it worth it!

check it out here:
http://www.rwanda-gorillas.com

Although there are hundreds of amazing treks elsewhere in Africa it would be remiss of me to miss out on other wonderful adventures.
A country that is often off the visit radar is Bhutan. Sandwiched between China and India it often gets over looked even though with its Buddhist culture and some of the best of trekking anywhere in the world it is a must see location. Near Thimpu there are a plethora of high altitude beautiful, picturesque lakes crying out to be seen. Even though it is pretty tricky there is the opportunity to see the Golden Trout as well as the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery too.

http://www.eorc.jaxa.jp/en/imgdata/topics/2008/tp080402.html

Another country that people have only just started to really hear about is Papua New Guinea. Over the last few years there have been a few programs highlighting both the country and the people there so if your interest has been piqued then why not check it out. It is a wonderland for anyone interested in indigenous peoples, wildlife, jaw dropping scenery and tough walking. it is a country that beggars belief and you can guarantee that not many of your piers will have been there either!

http://www.pngtourism.org.pg

And last up we have got an idea to get you to central America.
Mexico is well known for sea, sun and those Aztec ruins that featured so heavily in Star Wars…but there is so much more to this amazing country. Of course you can’t go to Mexico without visiting these ruins or some similar however why not scale Mexico’s highest, and North Americas third highest, peak? Pico de Orizaba is 5746m but as long as you are fit and have some experience then it is imminently doable for sure.

Pico de Orizibia

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pico_de_Orizaba

So, I hope all of that was of interest and i look forward to doing another Trekking article soon
Have fun!!

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Posted in Adventure Travel, International, trekking | 2 Comments »

So we’ve been mountain biking, now what?

November 10th, 2009

Hopefully you took some decent tips from the last round of information I wrote about. But as I am well aware not everyone is into bikes. How about some water, anyone ever think about going Kayaking or white water rafting perhaps?

There are all sorts of great places to go white water rafting and kayaking around the world but for most of us all we ever see of it is on a gap year in Australia or perhaps even New Zealand. Don’t get me wrong these are great experiences but settle back and check out a few more options off the beaten track.

So first up we have the Cotahuasi River in Peru. this gorge is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and is a series of seriously wild and dangerous continuous rapids. It was only “first descended” 16 years ago back in 1994 so is a pretty fresh and unknown route and so consequently an unknown challenge with the first commercial routes set up in 2001. The river starts all the way up in the Andes Glaciers and heads all the way down to the sea. Down the route there are undiscovered Inca and even pre Inca ruins and burial sites that haven’t been surveyed yet.
In terms of some other useful facts, the water is cold, there are bugs a plenty and it is really hard work. But rest assured there are some really good guides in the region who will be more than happy to help you out.
Have a look at this for more information:

http://www.cotahuasicanyon.com/modules/news

The second option takes us off to Greenland for a spot of sea kayaking.
You will be following in the paddle strokes of the Inuit hunters as a way of tracking their prey, seals and whales. Obviously on your trip everything will be a bit less life or death but it is a thrilling trip none the less. The best time to go is in our summer (July and August) and it probably goes without saying that you should go on an organised trip with a knowledgeable guide to prevent any problems.

If you want some more info have a look here:
http://www.eastgreenland.com/database.asp?lang=eng&num=598

Finally how about somewhere even more off the beaten track…Nicaragua.
I know it conjures up images of drug dealers, guns and second rate shoot ‘em up movies but it has been a settled and developing democracy for over ten years.
The country has a nickname “land of lakes and volcanoes” which aptly describes the make up of the landscape and highlights exactly why this country is an adventure sports playground. There are two great lakes that occupy about 10% of the country and therefore offer a great opportunity to explore it by kayak.
Flights aren’t the cheapest from the UK but once you get there it is a truly beautiful and diverse country to go and see. If you want more information on the place then have a look here:

http://www.nicaragua.com/tourism

So, fingers crossed this is useful information.
Remember, be safe and get covered, X1 Sports Insurance covers everything including kayaking to give you peace of mind!

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Posted in Adventure Travel, International, kayaking | No Comments »

Where to go next then…?

November 6th, 2009

As I am sitting here looking out of the window I can tell that winter is definitely on its way. Although we have had a fantastic autumn it is time to admit defeat and accept that it is about to get very much colder. What doesn’t help is that the days are getting shorter, further emphasised by the clocks changing. that short term euphoria of having an extra hour in bed pales into comparison when you realise it is just going to get darker earlier for the next 3 months or so.

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

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Posted in Adventure Travel, Europe, International, Mountain Biking, UK | 2 Comments »

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