September 2012
- 4
Pyrenees Walking 2012: Snakes, Sunburn, and Inedible Baguettes
In his Pyrenees guide book Ton Joosten describes the high section east from Salardu as by far the most difficult. This, plus impressions derived from photographs, meant I was discouraged from walking it. Two years ago I met a Spanish chap, Jose, who said the central part of the chain is the best and after twenty years walking, there were parts he wouldn’t bother with again. I’ve come to the same conclusion after walking in…
- 10
British Walking: A Postcard From Edale
Three years ago when I got back from the Pyrenees I couldn’t bear the prospect of walking under grey British skies and gloom. I found magazines extolling the wonders of Britain rather pathetic, illustrated with cloudy photographs of Wales or even Scotland. And when I start walking again in this rain sodden isle the dream of the Pyrenees will vanish: I’m back in goddamn Blighty and it’s goddamn raining again. Again. This time was different. My…
- 28
British Walking: Overnight In Wales
For a city, Manchester is one of the best locations in the country for the outdoors. Wales and the Lake District are less than two hours away, the Peak District less than an hour, and Scotland is a manageable distance rather than a major expedition. Because of this (it must be so) there’s an abundance of outdoor shops here: Ellis Brigham, Cotswold, North Face, Snow and Rock, Milletts, Blacks, and about two years ago Go…