Now that you have cleaned and waterproofed your outdoor footwear with our Footwear Kit, build up your steps and take a hike across some beautiful walking routes this autumn. Staycations have been the way to go in 2020 and there are stunning locations you can visit and enjoy safely as the season changes.
The Coast…
Coastal walks can be bracing but exhilarating. What better way to blow away the cobwebs than strolling along clifftops, with dramatic coastlines and quaint fishing villages? Coastal routes can be a walker and photographer’s dream.
Scotland: Moray Coastal Trail
Starting at Forres, all the way to Cullen, there is a total of 72km to explore. The trail can easily be broken into stages, so choose a length of walk to suit your fitness level; a short trail runs from Buckie to Cullen, whilst some may wish to undertake the 5-6 hour route from Lossiemouth to Buckie.
Spey Bay is renowned for its dolphin sightings, so keep your eyes peeled and you may spot some of these wonderful ocean creatures playing in the waves!
This is a straightforward walk, with some road elements and sections across sandy beaches, so will also suit those who enjoy more leisurely routes.
Ireland: Ballycotton Cliff Walk, County Cork
A pretty and revitalising walk that takes you along the clifftops to Ballyandreen and back again, notching up 13km. Stroll alongside farmland on some well-worn paths and you will arrive at the sandy beach of Ballyandreen. Enjoy the rugged coastal landscape on your way and perhaps even stop for a picnic! However, this route is not recommended for pushchairs as there are some stiles along the way.
Just remember to wear layers and prepare for any kind of weather: a waterproof – prepped with Nikwax TX.Direct® for optimum performance – is always handy to have in your rucksack, as well as comfortable waterproof shoes suitable for mixed terrain.
Family Friendly…
Want somewhere suitable for young children or pushchairs, where you all get to breathe in the fresh air and experience nature? There are plenty of places out there to explore as a family…
Wales: Bwlch Nant yr Arian, Aberystwyth
Managed by the Forestry Commission, here you will find a range of walking routes through glorious forest. Take a casual stroll with the little ones past a lake, watching out for Red Kite in the skies – you can even watch the Kites being fed! A lake trail is perfectly suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, making it accessible to all.
You can head further up on moderate walking routes and discover views looking out towards Cardigan Bay, taking in that fresh Welsh air as you enjoy all that nature has to offer laid out in front of you.
Fancy more of a challenge?
Wales: Pen Y Fan Horseshoe, Brecon Beacons
The terrain on this route includes unmade paths, steep climbs and descents, however, Pen Y Fan gives you fantastic views across the Brecons. As the weather can sometimes be a challenge, ensure you are fully prepared before you head out!
Snowdonia
Or, you can give yourself a real challenge and climb the highest mountain in Wales and England – Snowdonia! Six routes are available for you to choose from to reach the summit – all 1,085 metres – of this majestic wonder and there are also options to have a Guide who will accompany you on your trek. As the season changes and the weather can get colder, warming base layers would be a good idea – prepped in advance with Nikwax BaseFresh®, to ensure high performance wicking and comfort!
Surrey: Box Hill
Box Hill welcomes many visitors each year, due to its location by the beautiful North Downs. Wind your way up the hill – some steep ascents and steps are found on this route, so you need to have good fitness levels.
For walks such as these, sturdy waterproof walking boots are a must! First and foremost, the weather at this time of year can be changeable, so you don’t want to be wearing basic trainers only to find yourself in a rainstorm with soaking feet! You need footwear that will support your ankle and ultimately provide comfort for the walk and climbs ahead.
Walking has become even more popular than ever this year whilst we have experienced the restrictions of Covid-19 – it is an opportunity to get outdoors, take exercise and get some space, safely! Many people have discovered local walks that they didn’t even know were there – there may be footpaths and routes in your immediate area that you never knew existed. There is plenty of inspiration for walks all over the country if you search online, maybe join a walking or hiking Facebook group for recommendations. Please be sure to follow the country code when outdoors and take any litter home with you – don’t spoil the great outdoors for others.
Plus, if you use your Nikwax Footwear Kit prior to your walking adventures, you will be safe in the knowledge that your feet won’t run the risk of getting damp from footwear ‘wetting out’, moisture will be able to escape from the inside (no clammy feet!) and you can focus on just enjoying your activity, comfortably. Nature has much for us to enjoy, so get outdoors today!
