The Serial Adventurer

Exploring the Gems of Antalya: Must-Do Activities in the Region

2023-06-18T08:07:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the stunning Antalya region in Turkey, a place where ancient history meets breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an adrenaline junkie, or a food lover, Antalya has something for everyone. In this blog post, we'll take you on a virtual tour of some of the top attractions and activities that you simply can't miss during your visit. So grab your travel itinerary and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Manavgat Market: Immerse Yourself in Turkish Culture

No visit to the Antalya region is complete without exploring the vibrant Manavgat Market. Held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, this bustling bazaar offers a captivating experience. Dive into the vibrant atmosphere as you navigate through a maze of stalls selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to clothing, spices, and souvenirs. Engage with friendly locals, practice your bargaining skills, and sample some of the region's finest produce. The Manavgat Market is a true feast for the senses and a perfect opportunity to bring back unique mementos from your journey.

Side Old Town: Step Back in Time

Prepare to be transported back in time as you wander through the captivating ruins of Side's Old Town. Marvel at the remarkably preserved ancient structures, including the grand Temple of Apollo, the ancient amphitheater, and the awe-inspiring Roman baths. Stroll along the picturesque streets lined with charming shops, cafés, and restaurants. With its rich historical heritage and breathtaking coastal views, Side Old Town is an architectural and cultural gem that will leave you awe-struck.

Manavgat Waterfall: Nature's Serenade

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and venture into the tranquil oasis of Manavgat Waterfall. Located just a short distance from the city center, this captivating natural wonder will leave you mesmerized. Feel the refreshing mist as the cascading waters plunge into the river below, creating a picturesque landscape that's perfect for memorable photographs. Take a leisurely stroll along the shaded pathways, enjoy a picnic by the riverbank, or simply bask in the beauty of nature's symphony.

Parasailing on the Beach/Sea: Soar High Above Antalya

For thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts, Antalya offers an unforgettable experience with parasailing. Take to the skies and soar high above the mesmerizing coastline, enjoying panoramic views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and the stunning landscapes below. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you glide through the air, supported by a parachute and a powerful speedboat. Parasailing in Antalya is an exhilarating way to appreciate the region's natural beauty from a whole new perspective.

Tasting Turkish Treats, Tea, and Coffee: A Gastronomic Delight

No trip to Antalya is complete without indulging in the mouthwatering flavors of Turkish cuisine. Treat your taste buds to an array of delectable Turkish treats, from sweet baklava and Turkish delight to savory kebabs and traditional mezes. Accompany your culinary journey with a cup of aromatic Turkish tea or a rich, fragrant cup of Turkish coffee. Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality and cultural traditions as you savor the distinct flavors that define Turkish gastronomy.

The Antalya region of Turkey is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. From exploring vibrant markets and ancient ruins to immersing yourself in natural wonders and savoring the flavors of Turkish cuisine, every moment spent in this enchanting region will leave you with cherished memories. So pack your bags, embark on an adventure, and don't forget to follow @theserialadventurer on Instagram.

Top 10 Nothern Ireland

2023-05-17T12:03:00.000-07:00

Northern Ireland is a land of breathtaking natural beauty, rich history and culture, and warm hospitality. From the stunning Causeway Coastal Route to the fascinating cities of Belfast and Derry, Northern Ireland has something for everyone. Here are the top 10 things to do in Northern Ireland:

Visit the Giant's Causeway: This natural wonder is one of Northern Ireland's most famous attractions. The hexagonal basalt columns that form the Causeway are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and make for a truly awe-inspiring sight.
Walk across Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: This thrilling experience offers stunning views of the coast as you cross a narrow bridge suspended over a 30-meter-deep chasm. It's not for the faint-hearted, but the views are well worth it.
Explore Dunluce Castle: This dramatic castle ruins perched on the edge of a cliff have been the inspiration for many myths and legends. With its rich history and stunning views, Dunluce Castle is a must-visit attraction.
See Glenoe Waterfall: This picturesque waterfall is located in the Antrim Hills and is one of Northern Ireland's hidden gems. The tranquil setting is perfect for a peaceful walk or a picnic.
Hike to Cranny Falls: Nestled in the Mourne Mountains, this stunning waterfall is reached via a scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Walk through the Dark Hedges: This iconic avenue of beech trees has become famous for its appearance in the hit TV show Game of Thrones. The atmospheric setting is truly enchanting.
Visit the Crown Saloon in Belfast: This historic pub has been serving customers since 1826 and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the city's rich history and culture.
Explore the Lost Village of Galboly: This abandoned village offers a fascinating glimpse into life in rural Northern Ireland in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Drive the Causeway Coastal Route: This scenic drive takes you along the coast from Belfast to Derry and offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Northern Ireland, including the Giant's Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and many other attractions.
Visit Derry/Londonderry: This historic city has a rich and fascinating history, from the siege of Derry in 1689 to the more recent Troubles. Today, it is a vibrant cultural hub with a lively arts scene and some of the best pubs and restaurants in Northern Ireland.

In conclusion, Northern Ireland is a fascinating and beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. From natural wonders like the Giant's Causeway and Glenoe Waterfall to historic sites like Dunluce Castle and the Lost Village of Galboly, there is no shortage of things to see and do. So why not plan a trip to Northern Ireland and experience it for yourself?

Adventures for Boxing Day

2022-12-23T12:48:00.000-08:00

Boxing Day is a holiday that is celebrated in the United Kingdom on the day after Christmas. It's a day that many people use to relax and unwind after the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, and there are plenty of great adventure ideas to consider if you want to make the most of the day.

One popular adventure idea for Boxing Day is to go on a hike. The UK is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, and a hike is a great way to take in the stunning scenery and fresh air. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just starting out, there are plenty of great trails to explore.

Another fun adventure idea for Boxing Day is to go cycling. The UK is home to some of the best cycling routes in the world, and a bike ride is a great way to see the sights and get some exercise. Whether you prefer road cycling or mountain biking, there are plenty of options to choose from.

If you're looking for something a little more adventurous, why not try your hand at rock climbing or bouldering? These exciting sports are growing in popularity in the UK, and there are plenty of great places to try them out.

No matter what adventure you choose, the most important thing is to have fun and make the most of the day. Whether you're hitting the trails, hitting the road, or just enjoying the great outdoors, there are plenty of ways to make lasting memories on Boxing Day.

Adventure ideas on the run up to Christmas

2022-12-12T15:34:00.000-08:00

As the holiday season approaches, many people are looking for fun and exciting ways to get into the Christmas spirit. If you're an adventure seeker, there are plenty of great options to consider that will help you make the most of the season.

One of the most popular adventure ideas on the run up to Christmas is to go on a winter hike. There's nothing quite like the crisp, fresh air of the outdoors to get you feeling festive, and a winter hike can be a great way to take in the beautiful scenery of the season.

Another fun adventure idea is to go ice skating. This is a classic Christmas activity that is perfect for people of all ages. Whether you're an experienced skater or just starting out, you'll have a blast gliding across the ice with friends and family.

If you're looking for something a little more exciting, why not try your hand at snowboarding or skiing? These high-energy sports are perfect for adventure seekers and are sure to get your heart racing.

For those who want to get their adrenaline pumping even more, there are plenty of great adventure activities to try. For example, you could go dog sledding, snowmobiling, or even try your hand at ice climbing.

No matter what adventure you choose, the most important thing is to have fun and make the most of the holiday season. Whether you're hitting the slopes, hitting the trails, or just enjoying the great outdoors, there are plenty of ways to get into the Christmas spirit and make lasting memories with loved ones.

December Travel Weekend Packing List

2022-12-10T00:12:00.000-08:00

Are you planning a December adventure weekend and not sure what to pack? Don't worry, we've got you covered with this comprehensive packing list.

First and foremost, make sure to pack appropriate clothing for the weather. December can be chilly, especially at night, so be sure to bring warm layers like a coat, hat, gloves, and a scarf. It's also a good idea to pack a waterproof jacket in case of rain.

Next, consider the activities you'll be participating in on your adventure weekend. If you're planning on hiking, be sure to pack sturdy hiking boots, as well as a backpack to carry all your essentials. If you're planning on camping, be sure to pack a tent, sleeping bag, and camping pads or air mattresses for added comfort.

In addition to clothing and gear for your activities, there are some other essentials to include in your packing list. These include:

Sunscreen: Even in the winter, the sun can be strong, so it's important to protect your skin from sunburn.
Insect repellent: While bugs may not be as prevalent in the winter, it's still a good idea to pack insect repellent to keep them at bay.
Flashlight or headlamp: December nights can be long, so be sure to pack a light source to help you see in the dark.
First aid kit: Accidents can happen, so it's always a good idea to be prepared with a first aid kit.
Snacks: Pack some non-perishable snacks like granola bars or trail mix to keep your energy up during your adventures.
Water bottles: Staying hydrated is important, so be sure to bring enough water bottles to keep you hydrated throughout the day.

With these items in your packing list, you'll be well prepared for your December adventure weekend. Happy exploring!

Top Tips For Winter Adventures

2022-12-09T10:46:00.001-08:00

Winter is a great time for adventures, whether you're hitting the slopes for some skiing or snowboarding, or enjoying the great outdoors with some snowshoeing or ice skating. Here are some top tips to help you make the most of your winter adventures:

Dress in layers: One of the key things to remember when embarking on any winter adventure is to dress in layers. This will help you to regulate your body temperature and stay comfortable, no matter what the weather is doing. Make sure you have a base layer to wick away moisture, a middle layer for insulation, and an outer layer that is wind and waterproof.
Protect your extremities: Your hands, feet, and head are all vulnerable to the cold in winter, so make sure you have the right gear to keep them warm. Gloves, hats, and warm socks are a must, and consider investing in some hand and foot warmers for extra protection.
Stay hydrated: It's easy to forget to drink water in the cold weather, but staying hydrated is just as important in winter as it is in summer. Make sure you bring plenty of water with you on your adventures, and consider using a hydration pack to make it easy to sip on the go.
Watch the weather: Before you head out on your adventure, make sure you check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. This will help you to know what to expect and make sure you have the right gear with you.
Be prepared: It's always a good idea to be prepared for the unexpected when you're out in the great outdoors. Make sure you have a first aid kit, a map and compass (or GPS), and a emergency whistle or signal mirror with you at all times.

With these top tips in mind, you'll be ready to hit the slopes, the trails, or the ice and make the most of your winter adventures. Happy exploring!

10 More things to do in Cornwall

2022-08-08T15:59:00.001-07:00

I visited Cornwall again in 2021, seems to have become tradition for a yearly trip, so here are some of what we got up to. And you should too.

1. Visit Kynance Cove

Amazing views, we even got a sneak peak of Matt Smith and the team filming the Game of Thrones prequel.

2. St Michaels Mount at Marazion

Obviously worth a vist, great idea would be to paddleboard up to and around the island at high tide.

3. Porthleven

The most hipster place in Cornwall with quirky shops and the best freshly baked bagels 🥯.

4. Watch the pros at Fistral Beach

I was to busy being all zen and watching the surfers to take a picture at the infamous Fistral Beach at Newquey.

We also got the see the most amazing murmuration of starlings over the beach and cliff tops. Luckily I got a snap of these.

5. Scoff a Cream Tea

When in Cornwall....

It's going.... its going.... its scone!

6. Visit Fowey

Another paddleboarding opportunity in the estuary. Just remember Fowey is pronounced Foy.

7. Explore Caves at Portreath

Plenty of beach caves here you can find yourself walking through caves to the sea here.

8. Go Surfing Again

Just don't step on a weaver fish!

9. Have a drink at the Wateringhole at Perranporth

The best beach bar in the UK, great place to catch a sunset.

10. Spend a day at Perranporth

Finally, my favourite place in Cornwall so I will always advocate for a day here.

Where should I visit in Cornwall this coming September? Any unearthed places? Let me know in the comments.

Derbyshire's Christmas Village

2021-12-25T15:06:00.002-08:00

Castleton

As you may have noticed from my previous posts, Castleton is one of my favourite places. Castleton is the most beautiful village all year round.

Castleton is famous for its Christmas at Castleton celebrations, the closest you can get to a real life model Christmas village.

The whole village gets involved, Christmas trees on every corner, lights on every building, it is the most magical

You can even go and watch the Carol singer show in a cave (Peak Cavern).

With the village being high up, it also benefits from having a white over back drop of Mam tor, Winnats Pass and other prominent structures.

Each year there is a light switch on ceremony in November, and the lights stay on until the new year. Visitors benefit from late night shopping during this period

There is also a Christmas tree festival at St Edmunds Church which runs from mid November to mid December. Usually around 50 trees decorated by local groups, businesses and charities.

You can take a day trip to see the amazing lights and attractions or you can make a weekend of it. Not short of places to stay. My recommendation is Ye olde Cheshire Cheese inn.

Built in 1667, this famous pub-hotel will provide you with plenty of history of the village.

Grab a mulled wine from the many quaint establishments offering and take a stroll around the village shops before grabbing a bite to eat.

Tips: Book in to one of the villages pubs for food as Castleton gets very busy during the festive season.

Parking: The visitor center will be full, either park along the road leading to Mam Tor, or park at the Devils Arse car park.

Stay Wild

- The Serial Adventurer

Top 7 Things To Do In York

2021-08-14T13:40:00.003-07:00

York, my favourite UK city I have ever visited. Very quirky, pretty and packed full of things to do.

Here are 7 things to do when in York;

1. The Shambles and Market

One of my favourite parts of York! Visiting The Shambles is like taking a step back in time, such quirky buildings with even quirkier shops, even some with names i shall not mention. The Shambles need to be at the top of your list when visiting York.

Harry Potter Fans, I hope you got that One!

Nestled into the Shambles you will find the Market, there are some really interesting independent stall holders worth visiting, especially the Baklava one!

2. York Minster

A city with no cathedral? Who cares? York Minster is such a grand building with so much detail within its architecture. You can either take in the view from the outside or get tickets to explore inside.

3. Shopping

From the quirky retailers in the Shambles to high Street shops at Coppergate Shopping centre, there are lots of shops to suit all!

My personal favourite shops were in the Shambles and those on Stonegate and Blake Street.

4. Grab Some Street Food

With street food stalls on even corner you are guaranteed to be tempted into something. We grabbed loaded fries from The Taylor Made kitchen in the Shambles Market. £6 and that (in the photo) is only a small! Huge portions, so much value for your money.

5. Tower Gardens and a stroll by the River Ouse

Advisable late afternoon or early evening! Such a calm relaxing way to end a day in one of the UKs prettiest cities! Enjoy views of boats, the surrounding architecture and Riverside bars you may find yourself in later on in the evening.

6. Clifford's Tower

Unfortunately for us, when visiting York, Clifford's Tower was having some restoration work being done meaning the Tower was covered in scaffolding! (So here's a photo of a random York Street Name instead) Even with this you can still see how great the Tower would be standing high over the city.

The Tower will definitely be on my list next time I visit York.

7. The City Walls

The city walls in York have been around for quite a while, with the original walls built by the Romans in 71AD.

Today you will find remains circling the medieval city although mostly from walls rebuilt in the 12th century.

There is a great lot of history to discover in York.

Extra Tips;

Parking - Askham Bar Park and Ride £3.80 return per person. Much better than almost £20 in the city centre. Very secure and reliable bus service.

Anywhere I have missed of and need to go back and see? Let me know in the comments.

Stay Wild!

Top 5 Things to do in Knaresborough

2021-07-29T14:31:00.006-07:00

Knaresborough is very much one of Yorkshires hidden gem towns!

Here are 5 things I did when visiting Knaresborough for the day and would highly reccomend you checking out.

1. Check out all of the quirky art

On every street in the town there Is some quirky art to see.

2. Ice Cream By The River

Take a seat by the river Nidd and enjoy the views of willow trees flowing over the river, and first time rowers getting to grips on how to row! People watching is very interesting at times.

3. Chapel of Our Lady of The Crag

Built into the sandtone cliffs, this Chapel has been a place of worship since the 15th Century. The Chapel is now looked after by the Chapel of Our Lady of the Crag Trust and us free to enter. One of the volunteers of the trust even offered us a courgette, never been offered one before!

There are several caves you can visit in Knaresborough such as St Roberts and the House in the cave all for free.

You can also vist Mother Shiptons cave for a fee, the cave is said to be the UKs first paid attraction. In this cave, you will come across the petrifying waterfall which turns items into stone.

4. Knaresborough Castle

You can access the castle grounds and views of the old tower and where the moat used to lye. The remains of the Kings tower along with secret underground passages are accessible at just £3.50, this also provides access to the castle museum.

The grounds also host bowling and putting greens if you like playing with balls!

5. Row a Boat Over the River Nidd

Traditional rowing boats are a popular sight on the River Nidd, you just have to give it a go. I will pre warn you though, it's a killer arm workout!

If you can work out how to direct and row, you can make your way under the viaduct and through willow trees. The River is exceptionally peaceful.

Last few tips;

Park at York Place car park, only £1.60 for 24 hours! Postcode HG5 0AD less than a 5 minute walk to all the attractions.

Stay Wild!

The Serial Adventurer x

5 Things I would have done differently at Loch Lomond

2021-07-26T13:35:00.000-07:00

My first ever visit to Loch Lomond, a fantastic weekend with great company. We packed a huge amount of activities in. You can read about them on my previous post Here.

Here are 5 things I would have done differently at Loch Lomond.

1. Not picked a cheap festival tent to spend the weekend in

Although at least our tent was coloured to match to countries national drink, Irn-Bru. A larger tent would have given us a little more room for storage!

2. Wear a wetsuit for SUP on Loch Lomond

August in Scotland is still Baltic! 13 degrees and falling into the UK's deepest lake is not that great! Wear a wetsuit and keep warm, unlike me who thought shorts and a vest would be suitable.

3. Do an Island Explorer rather than circular cruise and explore Inchcailloch island

For the same price you can jump off the cruiser and explore the island and grab a later cruise back to the shore at Luss.

Search for Loch Lomond cruises to book your place online.

4. Walk more of the west highland way

The West Highland Way is a beautiful route to take. We only took a short walk along the path from Balmaha to Milirochay Bay and these views here were amazing! I can only wonder what you could see if better travelled along the path.

5. Try Wild Camping

Scotland is the wild camping capital of the UK, with many places allowing you to pitch up and light campfires as you please then why not?

I would stay at Millarochy Bay pictured above, here you have a beautiful wild spot where you can wild camp on the east shore of Loch Lomond, with a car park and public facilities just a stones throw away from the shore.

You can make the best of both worlds, if you want to try wild camping without the too wild parts.

Where have you wild camped before in Scotland? Where would you advise to stay?

Thank you for reading.

Stay Wild.

A Staycation in the Jurassic Coast - (Dorset UK)

2021-07-20T11:26:00.000-07:00

Given the current restrictions on international travel, why not get to know our own country, after all we do have some beautiful places.

A July week spent in Dorset, we based in Weymouth, a great central location for exploring the many different attractions in the county.

During the week, we explored much of the landscape from cute villages to Jurassic coastlines a few activities and places I highly recommend getting involved in and visiting are;

1. Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove

Two of the most famous beaches / coves In Dorset are a must see. I advise visiting Durdle Door first, the earlier the better as it gets busy very quickly. Once parked up it is a 10- 15 minute walk to the beach, so make sure you use the toilets In the car park before you set off!

On the way down the footpath, you will have great views of the Man O'War beach (pictured below) before reaching the steps down to Durdle Door.

After taking in this Jurassic landscape, you can hike 30 minutes over the South West Coast path to Lulworth Cove (downhill). Or head back to the car park and drive to the Cove.

Parking is £10 all day for a car or £15 for larger vehicles, and you can use the same ticket at both Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, great if you don't fancy the hike like us!

Be sure to pack decent footwear for the hike down and some suitable water shoes if you plan on going in the sea. Both beaches are very pebbly and Lulworth Cove has a fair amount of seaweed under foot. This will save you crawling back to shore like a washed up sea creature like me!

2. The Isle of Portland

The drive over Portland Beach Road is like no other, with sea views on all sides accompanied by Chesil Beach and wind surfers, make sure to take it slow to soak in all the views.

Plentiful of things to do and see, the Isle of Portland is home to Portland Bill lighthouse at the tip of the isle as pictured above, it slightly reminded me of Lands End. There is a small shanty town of sheds near the lighthouse, if anyone knows what this is please let me know in the comments.

3. Cerne Abbas

Home to the famous Cerne Giant, this quaint village is exceptionally beautiful with so much to see and do.

The car park at Cerne Abbas is free, they just ask for a kind donation of £1 to help towards preserving the area. Pop DT2 7GY into your sat nav.

First thing to do after parking up is to head straight to the Viewpoint. Don't forget your glasses and take your binoculars if you have some. The giant chalk carving is quite the distance away!

After seeing the main attraction of Cerne Abbas, head into the village where you will find a cute tea room to call for a brew or pop to The Giant Inn if you fancy something a little stronger.

Back in the 1600s Cerne Abbas was home to over 14 ale houses with only 1500 residents at the time, the villagers must have enjoyed a pint or two.

The village is also home to Cerne Abbey, where you can donate £2 to enter the grounds or you can visit St Augustine's Well. It is believed that St Augustine's arrived in 597AD and built the well. There are many tales about the well which you will find out when you visit.

4. Abbotsbury

This picturesque village nestled by the coast lies with a backdrop of St Catherine's Chapel on the hill. You can visit the ruins of Abbotsbury Abbey which leaves behind a small pond and barn. The village is also home to a swannery and subtropical gardens.

After exploring the village, you can either take a 30 minute stroll or drive to the beach.

After a short drive or long walk, you will find yourself at Chesil Beach. If you can handle the tough walk along the sinking pebbles you will find where the beach separates the sea and the lakes of Fleet nature reserve, showing a landscape like no other.

5. Corfe Castle

The inspiration for some Enid Blyton books, Corfe Castle is a gem of a village. Situated in the countryside by the Purbecks , the castle towers over the village giving it an amazing backdrop from every angle.

The village is home to many thatched cottages and cute village shops including a bakery where you can pick up a breakfast roll and coffee.

Corfe Castle has a railway station hosting in action steam trains, you can even hop on a steam train to Swanage. The station has a museum dedicated to the history of the Corfe Castle railway.

There is a miniature village replicating the village and castle how it was before it fell into ruin, you will also find fairy gardens, great for the kids and adults.

6. Tyneham Abandoned Village

The now ghost town of Tyneham was evacuated during WW2 in 1943. The military used the village as a training base throughout the war.

After the war ended, the villagers were still not allowed to return, the military kept the village as a training base, the surrounding areas are still today used as a firing range. The village itself has been made accessible for those intrigued by the lost village.

Many of the buildings of the village have fell into ruin but some still stay intact.

The school house being one of those buildings, with desks, book cases and other classroom tools in place, today you can almost imagine how it was with a full class.

The local church also is in very good condition and fully accessible.

Parking in the village is free with a request for a donation of £2 to keep the site accessible to the public. BH20 5QH follow the satnav to this postcode and then follow the road down a little further and you will come to the well pointed out car park.

7. Sea Kayaking at Weymouth Beach

Weymouth beach holds some of the world's finest sand, who wouldn't want to kayak out to sea looking over the lovely sandy beach?

The beach hires out both kayaks and pedalos up and down the beach, they are reasonably priced. Kayaks £6 for half an hour but we definitely had at least an hour before heading back ashore. If you can handle a bit if teamwork then double kayaks are also available.

Weymouth beach is ideal for beginners and children as the sea stays very shallow for quite a way out allowing you to kayak freely without the worry of being out on deep water.

For those of you thinking of trying Kayaking for the first time it is a very easy water sport and is very hard to fall out of a kayak on still waters!

8. West Bay (Broadchurch)

A fan of the BBC crime drama Broadchurch? You may remember the cliffs in the picture above where Danny's body was found at the foot of sparking a thrilling investigation to find his killer.

West bay has a medium sized harbour with plenty of places to grab some food and a couple of shops to wonder around.

You can explore the beach and cliffs, climbing to the top of the steep grassy bank if wanted or investigate the village to spot buildings and areas from scenes in Broadchurch.

Take a look at our movie from the week below;

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https://www.unorules.org/minecraft-uno-rules/

Thank you for reading my post, drop me a comment if you have any questions or any recommendations of places to visit in Dorset.

Stay wild.

Loch Lomond Itinerary

2021-01-27T13:21:00.005-08:00

Welcome to The Start of the Scottish Highlands

My first ever visit to Loch Lomond, a fantastic weekend with great company. We packed a huge amount of activities into our short weekend at this magnificent place.

After planning the trip for weeks, the weather had not predicted very promising results, heavy rain and downpours given for the entire weekend, we were not sure whether to cancel and re-book for another weekend when dryer weather predicted. We decided to go with it, a bit of rain never hurt anyone, even in a non-waterproof child sized tent.

And so we set off, 0430hrs on a summer morning from Chesterfield. A great start until the moment we passed the England/Scotland boarder, immediately rain was smashing down onto the M74, spray from lorries, cars skidding even one crashed over 4 lanes, not a pretty sight. We couldn't act surprised as we knew the forecast.

After another couple of hours having to slow down on the motorway to avoid skidding we eventually arrived into Luss village where we were staying. The weather immediately cleared up and the sun came out almost like we were being welcomed.

We found Luss caravan and camping site where we were staying, got the tent pitched in a matter of minutes, we kicked back watching everyone else struggle with their giant oversized tents.

We chose Luss of all places around Loch Lomond as research showed it was a great base to travel to other places, had plenty of amenities and things to do in the village, not to mention being home to a camp site with pitches on the shores of Loch Lomond.

During the weekend in Loch Lomond, we managed to pack quite a few activities in.

Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

Based on Luss Beach, Loch Lomond Adventures will provide you with a bunch of water sport options, Kayaking, Canoe, we chose to try Stand up Paddle boarding. We had a 1hr slot for rental of our boards, of that time I think I spent all of 5 minutes actually stand up paddleboarding, the rest either falling in or 'Sit down paddle boarding'. whilst I was falling in, Lucy was busy getting blown into the Loch by the strong winds.

Walked Some of the West Highland Way, Balmaha to Milarrochy Bay and Back

This is such a beautiful walk, along the different shores of Loch Lomond and views of surrounding mountains. This is a great section to choose, Milarrochy Bay as the half way point is a bonus as there are public facilities if you are in need. Upon your return to Balmaha, there are a few cute coffee shops you can grab a warm cup of joe from.

Visited Abandoned Buchanan Castle

This is a must see! Hidden from plain sight, you would never know the castle was there if it was not for the power of google, follow the postcode in the itinerary at the bottom of the post to find it.

Since its closure in the 1950's the castle has deteriorated and now lies completely overgrown and lost in time.

Visited Ballach Castle and Grounds

Nice castle and beautiful grounds and gardens. (Free parking and entry to the grounds)

Drank Some Irn-Bru

The national drink, although I only had sugar free, not sure if this fully counts. Maybe I just need to return to try the real thing.

Took in the Best View of Loch Lomond From the Inveruglas Pyramid Viewpoint

Not on the original itinerary but definitely worth the visit. We found a little spare time so we took a short trip north of Luss to the Inveruglas pyramid, here you can climb up the steps to see the best view of Loch Lomond.

Went on a 90 Minute Circular Cruise Around Loch Lomond

A great cruise even if it were raining. You can sit below deck in the dry and check out the views of the Lochs many islands or you can sit or stand above deck for 360 degree views of the beautiful landscape. Of course I did the latter, a little rain wont ruin my experiences.

What Changed compared to the Itinerary

A few things changed from our itinerary, due to the predicted weather we swapped a few activities around, that did not play in our favour, the cruise we moved from Friday to Sunday, turned out to be dry Friday and it rained during the cruise Sunday!

The spontaneous decision to visit the Inveruglas pyramid was a great one, you should definitely add this to your itinerary, I am thankful we came across it as the view is amaaaaziiing!

We decided to not go to Loch Lomond Arms as we enjoyed the bliss of sitting by the campfire with a hot coffee. The pub would have been great if the weather was accurate, I'm sure a break from the rain would have been appreciated.

Cooking on the camping stove is pretty fun and is a must do on camping trips.

As we had a non electric pitch, we were limited on what food we could store so apart from the pot noodles we tried a couple of recipes.

Maple bacon pancakes were my fave but, we forgot the maple syrup so had just bacon pancakes, still tasty nevertheless.

Overall the trip was fantastic, we were quite lucky with the weather given the treseros downpours predicted, we only experienced rain whilst driving up and a spot of on the last day. During the boat trip!

You can download our itinerary here Loch Lomond Itinerary

What would you change on the itinerary? Where are some hidden gems around Loch Lomond you know of?

Let us know in the comments section below.

Thank you for reading

- The Serial Adventurer

10 Fun Things to do in Cornwall

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1. Visit a Cider Farm

Back in September when we had a small break between lock down's due to the notorious Rona, I

managed to squeeze in a weeks adventure in Cornwall. It was such a lovely week away, almost like

the virus was never here.

We managed to pack quite a few adventures in during the trip, from those adventures I have picked

10 of my favourites to share with you. We stayed in Perranporth, overlooking the beautiful beach and sea with waves roaring to be surfed on.

If you do go to Cornwall, you need to try out these 10 activities;

We visited Healeys Cider farm, here you can experience the whole process of how traditional
Cornish cider is made from how it was made in the beginning to now. You have the opportunity to
taste a range of ciders and also more recently, jams made on the farm. The cider farm is also home
to a range of farm animals, great for the kids.

What is also amazing about Healeys is once you pay for entry which is reasonably priced, you can
return at no extra cost for the next 12 months.

You can book your tickets here healeyscyder.co.uk

2. Visit Medieval Tintagel

Tintagel, a place for kings and many legends alike. The beautiful landscape of this small Village on
the west coast of Cornwall could be mistaken as a mythical world, Tintagel is mainly famous for its castle, said to be the birthplace of King Arthur and in some versions even Camelot castle itself. The remains of the castle, now an English Heritage site are only accessible by the bridge connecting the cliff tops, here you will see history yourself along with fantastic views of the sea and beaches below.

After exploring what was once a grand towering castle, you should make your way down to the
magical beach below. As soon as you land on the beach, you are greeted by a beautiful waterfall that
cascades onto the beach from above, the perfect photo op, in fact this exact photo op got me
featured in Wanderlust magazine. After being mesmerised by the waterfall you will then notice the
caves which surround the cove, Merlin's caves, the perfect exploring opportunity. We found a lobster
hiding in a pool in the cave awaiting high tide to reunite with the sea.

After exploring all of the wonders you can jump in a Land Rover to rally back up the long hill into
Tintagel village.

3. Get cocktails from a VW campervan beach bar

Perranporth, home to what I believe is one of Cornwall's most scenic beaches also adopts the amazing Watering Hole beach bar. Here you can grab a cocktail from the VW campervan named Beetle Juice, freshly made and shaken you can enjoy it with the weather and view.

What better way to spend your evenings than at a beach bar with a cocktail in hand watching the sunset over high tide where surfers are hoping to catch one last wave for the day.

4. Go swimming in a cave pool

Again, as mentioned Perranporth is one of my favourite beaches in Cornwall, it also hosts a bunch of caves and coves with oasis' left by the Atlantic Ocean during low tide. Some of these Oasis' are deep enough to have a swim as I did above. The Cornish sea is known to be extremely cold so if you don't fancy squeezing into a wetsuit, you can have a splash at wild swimming in these pools left behind every morning under the sun to warm up.

5. Eat a Cornish pasty

The traditional Cornish pasty was created for the miners who worked in the famous Cornish tin mines. A pastry case keeping a substantial meal warm for the huge amounts of energy exerted doing this job.
Today the traditional steak pasty is still popular in the county to both locals and visitors. You can find a pasty shop in almost every town and village in Cornwall.

You must try a Cornish pasty, even if you do not want to go for the traditional steak, there are new combinations such as cheese and onion and chicken and leek to choose from.

6. Watch the sunset on the beach

Sunsets are one of natures most wonderful sights, even more spectacular from the beach. There is something so fulfilling about watching the orange glowing sun set beneath the horizon of the sea, silhouettes of surfers enjoying the waves and swells caused by low tide.

A sunset from a Cornish beach is a must see. The picture above was from the Watering Hole beach bar on Perranporth Beach, a cocktail accompanied well.

7. Go Surfing

One activity Cornwall is very famous for... Surfing. Cornwall hosts some of the best surfing waves in the UK, this with a mix of the beautiful blue sea is enough to attract any surfer.

I give surfing a go every time I visit Cornwall, even though I may not be very good, surfing is still extremely fun! It makes you so content. Grab a couple of friends and head out into the surf, it is a great laugh and you may even catch some great waves.

If you are a little nervous, maybe try bodyboarding instead for your first time before you take a step up to a full board. (P.s, bodyboards are much easier to carry than surfboards).

8. Walk along the South West Costal Path

At 630 mile long, the south west costal path is one of the UK's favourite trails, starting at Minehead in North Devon, it covers the entire Cornish coast and ends in Poole, Dorset.

With only 1 week to explore the amazing County of Cornwall, I only covered a very small section in comparison. From our Chalet on the cliff tops over the sandy path edges of the cliff down onto Perranporth beach. Also from the Chalet only a short scenic walk to Holywell Bay.

I would love to return and complete the entire South West Coast past in the future, I can only imagine the beautiful sights it has to offer.

9. Eat ice cream at St Ives

Voted the UK's favourite seaside resort, St Ives is home to many shops, art galleries and some of the best ice cream I have ever tasted and of course in true Cornish style, I had a spoonful of clotted cream atop the scoop.

Watch out for the sea gulls in St Ives, they are notorious for landing on your heat and stealing your ice cream! This happened to my Mum a few years back.

10. Go swimming in a natural rock pool at Polperro

Hidden between the cliffs lies Cornwall's most beautiful fishing village. As you stroll down the hill you will pass beautiful cottages and shops set in their era. As you near the harbour, keep left and you will pass a house completely covered in shells, it is such a lovely sight. At the opposite end of the harbour, follow the footpath through what I can only compare to architecture in such a place as Santorini Greece, this will lead you to the cliff edge, below you will see the beautifully blue rock pool.

Once at the cliff edge, follow the natural rock formed steps down below the cliff and walk along to the rock pool where you can have a swim in the natural infinity rock pool, overlooking the blue landscape glistening under the hot sun.

Which of these activities will you try on your next trip to Cornwall? Let me know in the comments below.

Thank you for reading

- The Serial Adventurer

My Favourite Derbyshire Village - Castleton

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Castleton, my favourite village in the peak, it is so beautifully picturesque and there is so much to see and do.

Here are my top 5 favourite things to do in Castleton.

1. See the view from Mam Tor

Also known as the shivering mountain, Mam Tor stands out amongst other peaks due to its unique crumbling face.

There are several routes to the top. You can either park in Castleton Village and take a long hike up, or park at Mam Tor National car park (S33 8WA) for a shorter stroll to the top.

2. Trek Over Caverns at Cave Dale

As you make your way through the rocky opening, you are actually walking over underground caves (peak cavern).

You also get a great rear view of Pevril Castle from the farside of Cave Dale.

3. Driving through Winnats Pass

One of the UK's most scenic roads. Road trip anyone?

Pull up and climb to the tops for the best view of Winnats Pass from above.

4. Exploring the Caverns

Castleton is home to several caverns and caves; Blue John Cavern famous for the blue john stone which is available to purchase at many shops in the village.

Speedwell Cavern; tour this cave by boat for spectacular scenes underneath Winnats Pass.

Treck Cliff Cavern; also home to blue john stone, you can learn the history of it through a guided tour.

Peak Cavern; known as the devils arse, this cave has the largest natural cave entrance in the UK it is regularly transformed into a pop up cinema. Ticket anyone?

5. A Stroll To River Cottage

One of the UKs most instagrammed villages and the villages most instagrammed spot. Are you surprised?

Parking at Castleton is easy, you can either park at the visitor centre car park or along Old Mam Tor Road. Failing that, you can park at Peak Cavern car park just before Winnats Pass.

Follow me for more adventures.

Thank you for reading

- The Serial Adventurer

Top 5 hidden Gems in the Peak District

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1. Lumsdale Valley

Set just outside the town of Matlock lies the wonderful valley of Lumsdale. Park in the town center and walk to the falls.

At Lumsdale, you will come across a ray of waterfalls in stages as you make your way up through the mill ruins.

As you reach the top you will find a pond, the main water source for the many waterfalls throughout the valley.

2. Dovedale

Stroll along the river Dove, take a hike up thorpe cloud or make your way across the stepping stones. Dovedale is a great day out.

Use post code DE6 2AX for a large car park 10 minutes walk from the stepping stones.

3. Chee Dale

From the car park, walk along the river Wye, there are so many natural wonders to see along the way. You will come across several sets of stepping stones you must cross.

Chee Dale and the River Wye runs under the monsal trail. You can make your way up to the monsal trail at many of the viaducts along the river path to make your return journey to the car park.

Park at Millers Dale SK17 8SN, the car park has a takeaway cafe serving hot drinks and cakes along with public toilet facilities.

4. Cave Dale

Set in the picturesque village of Castleton, Cave Dale is a natural beauty.

As you make your way through the rocky opening, you are actually walking over underground caves (peak cavern).

You also get a great rear view of Pevril Castle from the farside of Cave Dale.

Park either by the tourist information center in Castleton or along the road leading towards Mam Tor.

5. Millenium Walkway

Set under the town of New Mills, the millenium walkway construced in the year 2000 is a completely different perspective.