Search Results

When we visited Iceland in September, a visit the the Golden Circle was a must do. But we wanted the freedom to do everything at our own pace, so we decided to hire a car and create our own one day self drive itinerary, which you can follow below. To read about what else we got up to on our trip to Iceland you can read the blog here . What is the Golden Circle? Iceland's Golden Circle is a 190 mile tourist route that covers three main natural attractions - Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss waterfall. The route includes some of Iceland's most famous and breath-taking natural attractions, shows a diverse range of the Icelandic landscapes and can easily be done in one day or broken down into a longer trip. Driving Iceland's Golden Circle in One Day. Self Drive Itinerary Staying in Reykjavic the night before, we get an early start and completed this self-guided tour in a single day, visiting most of the popular spots, and still having ample time to enjoy each location. Almannangja Gorge Our stops were as follows: Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park - This was the first stop on our journey and is a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site where you can stroll between two continents. There are numerous places to discover here, and all the trails are well-maintained, making navigation simple. There are a good few things to see here so expect to spend 1-2 hours here. Entry is free and parking costs around 1000ISK. Almannagjá Gorge  - a stroll through Almannagjá gorge is an experience like no other. A scenic stroll that takes you from one continent to another in a matter of minutes, from the North American tectonic plate to the Eurasian. As you descend down into the gorge you will embark on a journey along a gravel trail with towering rock walls on each side where you can see the plates pulling apart from each other. Öxarárfoss Waterfall - found at the end of the gorge, this is a spot that you definitely don't want to miss. It's got a cool mix of history and natural beauty. It's a great place to relax and snap some amazing photos. You may recognize the waterfall from Game of Thrones, which adds to its epic vibe. In the winter the pools can freeze and the waterfall can become an impressive ice sculpture. Drekkingarhylur  - is a stunning pond located close to the Öxará River. An oxymoron - a wonderful sight to view but with a hauntingly dark past. The pond was dubbed the Drowning Pool, from the 16th century until 1739, it was the site where many women were drowned as punishment for crimes like adultery and even lying under oath. A shocking reminder of the brutality that women were subjected to over the years. Silfra Fissure  - If you're into diving or snorkelling, this place is a must-visit. Even if you don't want to get in the water, you should still check it out. You can see where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates come together. Silfra has the clearest natural freshwater on Earth, with visibility that can reach over 100 meters (300 feet) underwater, making it one of the coolest diving and snorkelling spots around! This is one thing that I wish we had done whilst we were there, as amazing as viewing the fissure was, I would have loved the experience of being in the water and it is something I will add to the top of my list if I return to Iceland. Thingvallavatn Lake - found to the South of the national park, Thingvallavatn is Iceland's largest natural lake covering 32 square miles and is 114 metres deep. There are four species of Arctic Char inhabiting this lake. You can scuba dive at Davíðsgjá ( David's crack) or the Silfra Fissure and fishing trips are possible here. The Geysir Geothermal Area  - a paradise of geysirs and hot springs located in Haukadalur valley. In this spot you can catch the Strokkur Geysir shooting boiling water up to 30metres every 8-10 minutes and you can see the king of the Geysirs - the Great Geysir , which is no longer active but could blast boiling water up to about 170 meters high - wow. The Strokkur Geysir goes off most frequently so is perfect for a photo opportunity. An amazing sight, with the smell of sulphur in the air and steam rising from the ground. You'll find fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, boiling hot springs, and colourful minerals everywhere. The place is totally free to visit, but I did feel like I had been robbed after shelling out £32 for two soups at the café. I'd give yourself at least one hour here.   Gullfoss Waterfall  - also knows as the Golden Waterfall, this is one of Iceland's most famous landmarks. Famous for its massive size and jaw-dropping beauty, making it a must-see spot for anyone visiting the country. Gullfoss tumbles down in two parts, with the first drop around 11 meters and the second an impressive 21 meters into a rugged canyon shaped by nature over thousands of years. On average 100,000 litres of water plunges down into the canyon every second!! There are plenty of spots to soak in the waterfall's power, with well-kept paths and upper and lower viewing platforms that make it easy and safe to explore. This epic location is said to attract 2,000 per day so it can be pretty busy, and make sure to take a waterproof as there is a high chance you will get splashed. Plan to spend at least an hour here taking in the views. Above are the three main stops on the Golden Circle but here are some detour stops we made to make the most of our journey - Flúðir Secret Lagoon  - Iceland's oldest swimming pool. It's a natural geothermal spot that's not as crowded as the others because it's a bit off the main path. Mostly locals hang out here, and it's a lot cheaper than the other popular lagoons. It's a natural hot spring in a geothermal area where the water remains at around a cosy 40 degrees throughout the year. The Secret Lagoon has been around since 1891, and you can even enjoy a beer while you're there. Relax whilst surrounded by nature, the steam rising, tiny geysers popping, and bubbling hot pots! Kerid Crater Kerid Volcanic Crater  - The fresh minerals and growing plants give it these cool red and green colours. There's a blue lake in the middle that really stands out against the reds and greens. You can stroll along a trail around the top or head down and walk around the lake - both equally as impressive. The parking is free here and there is an entry fee of around 400 ISK to get in. The next two are not part of the Golden Circle but are often combined by some tour groups. They were on the way to our next hotel for the evening so we decided to stop. Definitely worth the detour if you have the time. Standing behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall Seljalandsfoss  - this was my favourite waterfall of the trip. You can walk right behind the powerful falling water. It's a great spot to soak in the views of the falls, the lush greenery, and the rugged cliffs. But a heads-up, the area can get pretty wet and slippery, so make sure to wear waterproof clothes and good shoes. Skogafoss  - another waterfall on the way to our hotel for the night. It is pretty remarkable to see with a 60-meter drop and 25-meter width. We only had a quick stop here as we had been driving loads & I was all waterfalled out, but if you hang around, you can climb 370 steps to a lookout spot with amazing views of the Skoga River and the surrounding scenery. The Golden Circle is accessible all year round and each season brings different atmosphere. This is a must do for anyone visiting Iceland. I hope my Iceland's Golden Circle in One Day. Self Drive Itinerary has helped you to plan your own trip. As usual any comments likes or shares are hugely appreciated. Happy Adventuring🌟

This is all the helpful information I gathered from our trip to Iceland, I hope that this helps you plan your trip to this beautiful country. I’ve split it up into these sections; Reykjavik, The Golden Circle, other cool stuff, and top tips. We went in September found the weather to be pretty good, we had enough daylight hours to get things done. The following is my list of the best things to do in Iceland. Getting Around We picked up a hire car from the airport, and this turned out to be the best option for getting around easily during our trip. Having the freedom to explore at our own pace made the entire experience much more enjoyable. I would advise opting for the maximum insurance coverage when renting a vehicle as the car can easily be damaged by factors that are beyond your control, such as unpredictable weather conditions, stones or debris hitting your vehicle, and extreme winds that can cause your doors to literally blow off. The Golden Circle We completed this self-guided tour in a single day, visiting most of the popular spots, and we appeared to have ample time at each location. Our stops were as follows: Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park - A UNESCO World Heritage site where you can stroll between two continents. There are numerous places to discover here, and all the trails are well-maintained, making navigation simple. Almannagjá Gorge - a stroll through Almannagjá is an experience like no other. This gorge, shaped thousands of years ago, is flanked by continental plates on both sides. Öxarárfoss Waterfall - a spot you definitely shouldn't miss. It's got a cool mix of history and natural beauty. The trail there is pretty easy and gives you amazing views of the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. You might recognize the waterfall from Game of Thrones, which adds to its epic vibe. It's a great place to relax and snap some amazing photos. Drekkingarhylur - is a stunning pond located close to the Öxará River. It's a lovely sight, but it has a dark past. Dubbed the Drowning Pool, from the 16th century until 1739, it was the site where many women were drowned as punishment for crimes like adultery and even lying under oath. Silfra Fissure  - If you're into diving or snorkelling, this place is a must-visit. Even if you don't want to get in the water, you should still check it out. You can see where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates come together. Silfra has the clearest natural freshwater on Earth, with visibility that can reach over 100 meters (300 feet) underwater, making it one of the coolest diving and snorkelling spots around! The Geysir Geothermal Area - This is the spot where you can catch the Strokkur Geysir shooting up every few minutes and check out the Great Geysir, which is no longer active but at a time could blast boiling water up to about 170 meters high - wow. It's an amazing sight, with the smell of sulfur in the air and steam rising from the ground. You'll find fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, boiling hot springs, and colourful minerals everywhere. The place is totally free to visit, but I did feel like I had been robbed after shelling out £32 for two soups at the café.   Gullfoss Waterfall - also knows as the Golden Waterfall, is an absolutely stunning natural sight in Iceland's amazing scenery. It's famous for its massive size and jaw-dropping beauty, making it a must-see spot for anyone visiting the country. Gullfoss tumbles down in two parts, with the first drop around 11 meters and the second an impressive 21 meters into a rugged canyon shaped by nature over thousands of years. There are plenty of spots to soak in the waterfall's power, with well-kept paths and viewing platforms that make it easy and safe to explore. Flúðir Secret Lagoon - Iceland's oldest swimming pool. It's a natural geothermal spot that's not as crowded as the others because it's a bit off the main path. Mostly locals hang out here, and it's a lot cheaper. It's a natural hot spring in a geothermal area in the small village of Flúðir, about 25 km from Geysir. The Secret Lagoon has been around since 1891, and you can even enjoy a beer while you're there. Relax whilst surrounded by nature, the steam rising, tiny geysers popping, and bubbling hot pots! Kerid Crater Kerid Volcanic Crater - The fresh minerals and growing plants give it these cool red and green colours. There's a blue lake in the middle that really stands out against the reds and greens. You can stroll along a trail around the top or head down and walk around the lake. The parking is free here but entry costs around 400 ISK and must be paid to get in. Standing behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall Seljalandsfoss  - this was my favourite waterfall of the trip. You can walk right behind the powerful falling water. It's a great spot to soak in the views of the falls, the lush greenery, and the rugged cliffs. But a heads-up, the area can get pretty wet and slippery, so make sure to wear waterproof clothes and good shoes. Skogafoss  - another waterfall on the way to our hotel for the night. It is pretty remarkable to see with a 60-meter drop and 25-meter width. We only had a quick stop here as we had been driving loads & I was all waterfalled out, but if you hang around, you can climb 370 steps to a lookout spot with amazing views of the Skoga River and the surrounding scenery. Reykjavík - Iceland's Capital City We dropped our car off at the hotel and decided to explore the capital on foot. This is what we did: try "the best hot dogs in the world" at Baejarins Beztu Pylsur but make sure you try to visit outside of lunchtime to avoid waiting in a huge queue visit Hallgrimskirkja - the tallest church in Iceland, an iconic landmark in Reykjavik watch the sunset at Lake Tjornin - watch the the sky light up fiery colours take a stroll along rainbow street - the lively atmosphere and stunning murals create an enchanting experience for all who wander through visit the monument to the unknown bureaucrat - a tribute that honours the countless individuals who work diligently behind the scenes in the world of administration and governance, often without recognition or acknowledgment for their contributions to society visit Laugavegur - a vibrant main street that serves as the heart of the city, adorned with an eclectic array of colourful street art and bustling with a diverse selection of shops, restaurants, and bars that cater to both locals and tourists alike if you are lucky enough you will be able to catch the northern lights try some Icelandic delicacies at Icelandic street food - you can indulge in a warm soup and if you are brave enough try fermented shark   Other Things To Do: Kleifarvatn Lake - on our way from the airport to Reykjavik, we decided to take a little side trip to Kleifarvatn on the Reykjanes Peninsula. It's the biggest lake in the area, going as deep as 97 meters. The mix of dark volcanic rock and bright blue water is absolutely breathtaking, especially with the geothermal steam adding to the view. This detour gave us a taste of Iceland's stunning natural beauty and set the vibe for our adventure.   Fatjokul Glacier Hike - a thrilling 5-hour tour across the glacier. Fatjokul translates to "falling glacier," which perfectly describes the dramatic ice chunks breaking off - which we were lucky enough to see whilst we were there. The tour company will provide you with crampons and winter boots if you don't have your own. We were greeted with breath-taking views of the blue and white glacier stretches, framed by rugged mountains. The hike was both refreshing and educational, giving us insights into how the glacier formed, the effects of climate change, and its unique ecosystem. We made our way through deep crevasses, towering seracs, and sparkling ice formations. We were also allowed to drink the fresh glacier water flowing from a hole in the ice - refreshing. The whole day was a thrilling experience but made even better by the fact I found a piece of black obsidian on the ice.   Raufarhólshellir, Lava Tunnel - since the weather was rough and the winds made it risky to do stuff outside, we switched up our plans from ice climbing to checking out the Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel. This change let us enjoy the area's cool geological features indoors. The lava tunnel, an amazing result of old volcanic activity, offered us a fun experience. There is a part of the tour where they turn the lights off and you are plunged into complete silence & darkness. Black Beach  - Reynisfjara is known for its cool black sand and amazing basalt caves and pillars. The beach is known for being pretty windy, when I went, it was super windy with an amber warning, which made the place feel even more intense with the waves crashing and the black sand swirling around. Just be careful though, because there are sneaker waves that can sneak up and pull you in. If you want to get an idea of the wild weather we experienced have a look here .  Reynisfjara Black Beach Top Tips: Look out for Icelandic lava bread, traditionally baked by burying dough in hot volcanic ash. Black in colour, it is unique and flavourful. It reflects the island's geothermal activity and culinary heritage. If you have a long day of exploring make sure you fill up at breakfast as eating out all day can become quite costly. Most hotels offer a buffet style from continental to Icelandic delicacies including fish oil. If you are travelling on a budget it is possible stock up on some shopping at the supermarkets - having the car meant we could get there easily and we made sure we had snacks and bottled water with us in the car. Reynisfjara - Black Beach Iceland is a wonderful place to visit and even although we crammed a lot in I still feel as though we only just scratched the surface. I cant wait to return to this beautiful county to see more. If you have any comments, suggestions or questions please drop them below. And as always any support is appreciated.

An incredible four day experience rolled into one blog to help you plan and prepare for your hike through Gran Paradiso National Park. I completed this trek in July just before my summit of Gran Paradiso . When Skyhook Adventures invited me to join the Gran Paradiso Circuit Trek, I absolutely jumped at the chance. Skyhook offer adventure trips across the globe and this one was right up my street, the whole thing was seamless and well organised from the start - I would highly recommend checking out their trips on offer. How To Get There - The best airport to fly into is Torino Airport, for me there are no direct flights from Scotland, but I managed to find a simple connecting flight via Frankfurt that still got me there in a timely fashion - the whole journey took under 6 hours. However, Frankfurt is the biggest (and most confusing) airport I've ever been in in my life and due to a delay, I almost missed my second flight, so if you are having to change in Frankfurt, make sure you give yourself enough time. I spent the night in Turin, which is a short journey from the airport and cost €6 on the bus. In the morning I took a metro to the meeting point at a cost of €2. The two meeting points were Turin Centre and Turin Airport or if you had your own transport in Italy you could meet at the starting point at Rhemes-Notre-Dame. For the return home you can either book an evening flight from Torino airport on the day the trek finishes or you can choose to stay a few days in Italy to enjoy some leisure time (I ended up continuing on to summit Gran Paradiso - blog to follow). What I Packed For The Gran Paradiso Circuit Trek- Below is a list of everything I carried with me on the trail. This isn't everything that I took with me on the flight, you were able to leave some bags and belongings in the car. It is advised to take trekking poles with you - I was unable to do so this I only had hand luggage but you will be able to borrow some from your guide. Hiking boots * Socks x 4 Sun Cream Towel Rucksack Underwear Deodorant Swimwear Waterproof trousers and jacket PJs/ something to sleep in Toiletries Dry sacks or bag cover Down Jacket T-shirts x 3 Sunglasses Battery Pack Hiking trousers Jumpers x 2 Medications Tripod Sleeping bag liner** Shorts x 2 Ear plugs!! *The rifugi provide sliders/crocs for wearing inside the huts, so you can save yourself some packing space - there's no need to take shoes for the evening ** There are covers on the beds but it is not advised to sleep in them without anything to cover your body as they likely don't get washed very often and a high number of people are passing through and staying there Accommodation - Turin - I spent the first night in Turin in Hotel Urbani located in Porta Nuova, right by the metro station. This hotel was a great price, it's in the city centre, close to the airport and metro and the staff were incredibly helpful. Rifugio Benevolo 2,285m Really warm showers here - 3€ for 3 minutes, you must buy a token from the bar. There are three showers for all of the guests, so as you can imagine there can be a bit of a queue of people waiting to use them There are also only three of toilets, so if you can I would aim to get there first thing in the morning before they are well used😅 Rooms - the rooms were small and tight, our group was split across two. The rooms have bunkbeds. Here all the rooms were quite close to each other and situated right above the bar so it was a little noisy Bar - €3.50 for a cola. Beers, wines and spirits available No Wi-Fi and no signal, however there is a signal sweet-spot if you walk around to the back on the hut where the little bench is Possibility of marmot and ibex sightings here This one didn't feel quite as remote as the rest of them as it is easily accessible by walking or the road There is a slackline in front of the hut if you fancy testing your skills Rifugio Bezzi 2,284m Huge & loads of marmots outside Free showers- nice & hot but try to get there first and don't take too long in case the hot water runs out The toilets here are mostly drop toilets but there is a seated one upstairs Rooms - each group seemed to be in their own room so all 9 of us were together. It seemed a little quieter as there were different floors and sleeping areas Bar - €5 for a prosecco - winning. And around €3 for a can of fizzy pop Free Wi-Fi but it only worked in the downstairs bar This one looks really impressive from the outside - I think this one was my favourite of them all It is possible to spot the glacier that you were walking alongside earlier that day Rifugio Chalet de l'Epee 2370m - Very close to a farm where you can hear the lovely sound of the cowbells There are a lot of showers here which cost €2, you must pay at the bar but there is no token or time limit (obviously don't take the mick as there is a limited water supply to these places) Drop toilets Rooms - again our group was given our own room at the end of a corridor so it was nice and quiet, but to get there or to the bathrooms we had to walk through another room past people who were sleeping so I was cautious not to disturb them Bar - the prices were pretty much the same for alcohol across all rifugi There is no Wi-Fi or signal here but if you turn right when you come out the front door and take a walk along the path for around 10 minutes, you will find signal For me this rifugio definitely had the most stunning views Overall I would advise that you take some ear plugs if you want a good nights sleep, as there as so many groups there and people moving around during the night, it can be quite noisy. The rifugi provide you with shoes so that you can keep your hiking boots at the door After dinner you will be offered teas, coffees and liquor - I tried genipy one night and boy was it strong Entertainment - most of the rifugi have games there that you can play I think some may take card but I didn't want to risk it so made sure I had cash Food Glorious Food - Considering you are in the middle of nowhere, I found the food to be very substantial along the trek. This is what you can expect: Dinner - we ate dinner in the rifugi each night, and were always provided with at least three courses of tasty and filling food. Dinner was definitely my favourite meal of the day. This is what we had at each rifugio , it will be different from place to place but this is just to give you an idea of the food you can expect. Rifugio Benevolo - a choice of soup or tomato pasta (although they came around offering seconds so you could have had both if you liked), goulash and polenta, chocolate cake Rifugio Bezzi - soup & bread, tomato based pasta, roast beef and potatoes (these were really crispy and so yummy😋) and flan for desert. We were served both starter options here Rifugio Chalet de l'Epee - tomato pasta, vegetable soup and bread, beef with potatoes and fontina cheese (made in Aosta valley) and crème caramel. The trays of food were put on the tables so you could serve yourself The food was always plentiful across the rifugi and nobody in my group seemed to be still hungry after dinner, I was extremely impressed with how they manage to pull it off, considering they have limited resources and can sometimes be feeding up to 60 guests at one time Lunch - In the morning you pick up a packed lunch before leaving the rifugio . This consists of sandwiches, fruit and sometimes a wee sweet treat. You need to take your own lunch with you for the first day as you go straight into the park and won't come across anywhere to get food until you hit the rifugio for the evening. Lunch with a view has a whole new meaning out here. Breakfast - Breakfast is a buffet consisting of breads & spreads, yoghurt, sometimes cakes or biscuits and you could help yourself to teas and coffees. Personally, I struggle with eating breakfast at home so I really struggled to eat enough here Snacks - If you have a bigger appetite or can't resist a snack stop along the way, then I'd suggest you stock up and carry your own with you. Because I struggle with breakfast I picked up a pack of individually wrapped pain au chocolat from the supermarket and they came in really handy around 11am when the hunger from breakfast hit me. If you arrive at the rifugio feeling quite peckish from the days activities, it is possible to buy snacks from the bar - mainly toasties, sandwiches or meat and cheese platter, and most places had chocolate bars and nuts available Dietary Requirements - The rifugi are very accommodating for vegetarians and vegans and try their hardest to provide a good alternative meal, however please remember that these places are very secluded, so the offerings may be very simple and limited. There were two members my group who had dietary requirements - one vegetarian and one vegan. The rifugi really made an effort to accommodate this Gran Paradiso Circuit Trek, Day by Day Diary Day 1 - Rhemes-Notre-Dame to Rifugio Benevolo 10k, 500m elevation The first pick up point was at 9.30am, so after I got ready and double checked my packed rucksack, I grabbed some cash, some snacks from the supermarket & managed to navigate the Italian metro - which was actually really simple. It is around a two hour drive from the airport to the little village of Rhemes-Notre-Dame. The journey gives you a great opportunity to introduce yourself and start to get to know the people in your group, my group consisted of 7 others - most of whom were strangers. Upon reaching the starting car park we set off on the trail at around 12.30pm, stopping briefly at a little coffee shop in Rhemes. The first part of the trek was fairly flat and foresty and before long you come to a clearing in the trees where the emerald waters of Lac Pellaud were glistening in the sun. This was the perfect lunch spot, as we chatted and watched the large fish and ducks swimming in the lake. The second part of the day was a slow and steady uphill climb through alpine meadows & passing beautiful waterfalls - this was where I really started to feel further from civilisation. This part is a little bit steeper over rocky terrain but still fairly manageable. When the rifugio  comes into view - wow!! It is a breath-taking sight, our home for the night. We arrived just as the rain started which was careful planning by our wonderful guide Elisabetta, who had been keeping an eye on the weather forecast. Huge shout out to Elisabetta who was great, really friendly and knowledgeable and was able to tell you interesting facts about the geology and vegatation we encountered during our trip. It was quite an experience to see the alps in the rain, as the lush greens stood out against the moody weather giving a very dramatic landscape. And the marmots didn't seem phased by it as we were able to spot some from the hut. This is the first time I'd ever seen a marmot and I was so excited - we don't get anything like that in Scotland. After dinner we finished the evening by playing Jenga and celebrated a successful first day. Day 2 - Rifugio Benevolo to Rifugio Bezzi (Bec de Traversiere optional) 10k 800m ascent & descent (12k 1160m including Bec de Traversiere) After having breakfast we left the hut around 8am - bad rain was due later so we wanted to try to get as much of the hike done as possible whilst it was dry. We set off to a symphony of cowbells from the cows meandering on the steep hill we were about to ascend. The first section of the day takes you up a steep path on a grassy hillside with lots of switchbacks. There are insane views from the hilltop and the hut we had just came from looked miniscule. On the approach to Lago Goletta the path evens out and the terrain dramatically changes from green & grassy to rocky & grey. Lago Goletta is a sight to behold - an alpine lake against the grey snow capped mountains, it is possible to swim here, I went in up to my knees but that was enough - it was icy cold and cold in the air too. The path from here is steep and rocky and there may be some snow patches to cross over until you reach Col Bassac Dere at 3,082m. From here you have the option to continue on to the peak - Becca Della Traversiere. It is possible to wait and enjoy the views if the rest of the group chooses to continue. The journey down from the Col descends over rocky terrain and there is a little rope section to navigate - nothing too extreme. We passed by another beautiful alpine lake and the surrounding area started to make me feel as if I was walking on Mars. It started raining on the way down which did make the scenery a lot more dramatic, but we didn't want to get too wet so for the last push we rushed to get to the rifugio - where I treated myself to a prosecco as this day was quite physically demanding & I was soggy from the rain - it was well deserved. Summiting Becca Traversiere 3334m - most of us were eager to hit the peak and those who chose not to were happy waiting at the col, enjoying lunch and admiring the views. For the rest of us it was a rocky ascent for a further km and 150m to reach the summit. The first part consisted of a gentle incline as you manoeuvred along the scree side of the mountain before reaching a second col type spot. From here is where the steep incline starts and the uphill climb begins over rocky paths and loose debris sections. It was quite exposed in places, but nothing too extreme. It took us around 40 minutes to reach the summit, where the views were incredible. It was a little cloudy so we weren't able to spot any of the iconic mountains but we were able to look down onto the Goletta and Gliairetta glaciers. Day 3 - Rifugio Bezzi to Rifugio Chalet de l'Epee 12k, 850m elevation After breakfast it once again was an uphill push but this one was slightly less steep than yesterdays. The guide will offer you the chance to detour to Lago San Martino where you can go for a dip, we went but only one from the group was brave enough as it was quite a cold morning. It is sometimes possible to see Mont Blanc from here but we had no luck today. Continuing on our journey we approached an alpine meadow with the most amazing views down into the valley! We experienced all kinds of terrain on this day as we continued on over a rocky crossing on the side of the mountain, bridges and a river crossing where we had to carefully navigate before our lunch break. A few switchbacks later and you will reach the highest point of the day where you can see glorious views down across the valley. A rain cloud rolled in but it only lasted a short while. A long descent takes you over a boulder field and through lush green hillside before the rifugio finally comes into view. There is a cow farm near the rifugio , where the combined noise of the cow bells against the mountain backdrop creates a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Day 4 - Chalet l'Epee to Col Fenetre & the descent to Rhemes-Notre-Dame 7.5k, 470m elevation, 1200 descent Our final day begun with a 400m ascent to Col Fenetre - the window between two valleys. This was a fairly gentle ascent which did not get too steep until the end part. The views from the fenetre were unreal - we could see Mont Blanc peeking through the clouds on one side and Gran Paradiso on the other - seeing it's colossal size it was hard to imagine I would be standing on top of it in just a few days. We enjoyed lunch here whilst we soaked up the views and prepared ourselves for the descent. Looking down I couldn't help but think 'how on earth are we getting down there?' but once you are on it, it isn't too bad. It is STEEP and scree in places but the path zig zags, just ensure you take care of your footing. There are two rope sections as you get further down. The first one is pretty simple and the rope provides an additional point of contact. The second is slightly tougher (part of it had came loose from the wall here which didn't help) and at a point you had to turn into the wall and sort of step back. Elisabetta was amazing here at providing encouragement, guidance and ensuring everyone managed safely. It was a bit of a fun section to break up the descent. Once we were down from the steep art there was a meadow to stop for lunch where we saw ibex and gazed with achievement at the steep descent we had just completed. The final part of the journey back to the car continued under the warm sunshine through gorgeous alpine meadows alive with flowers, butterflies, crickets and bees. This was beautiful and I felt myself getting quite emotional and full of gratitude over just how much of marvellous journey this had been. Once again, thank you skyhook and thank you Elisabetta for making this a magical experience. Top Tips - Entertainment - there are cards and various other games like boggle and jenga at the huts, but you may want to take a book or puzzles or a journal for something to keep you entertained in your free time in the evenings Tipping - although you are not obliged to, we felt that our guide had done an outstanding job so we decided to put some money together and give a combined tip as a thank you. We each put in €30 but there was no pressure if some wanted to give less or more Cash - you should carry enough cash on you to buy drinks and snacks at the refugi - other than this you won't really need it Water - I carried a 1.5 litre bottle with me and it was plenty for me. You can fill up from the rifugi and there are also little water troughs along the way with lovely fresh water from the mountains Going Solo - I know the thought of signing up for a group trip where you don't know anyone can be a daunting thought but it is so worth it, and you will probably find that the people on your trip are very like-minded 😊 It is possible to book on in groups too The end of a wonderful four days trekking through the Gran Paradiso National Park in the Italian Alps. If you have found this helpful and enjoyed reading this, any comments or shares are very helpful. I hope this has inspired you to one day embark on your own hike in the Italian Alps

Gran Paradiso was my first ever 4000m alpine summit (I have previously summited Kilimanjaro but this wasn't technical) and what an incredible mountain to start on. I have most definitely caught the bug and will be looking to climb further mountains in the Alps in the future - stay tuned. Before embarking on this journey I spent the previous four days completing the Gran Paradiso Circuit Trek as a warm up. My trip was organised by Roberto at Trekking Alps  - you should check him out for some exciting hiking trips to spend your time in the Alps. What is Gran Paradiso? Gran Paradiso is a mountain that stands at 4061m in the Italian Alps, and is the tallest mountain located solely in Italy. The whole hike took us two days and this epic peak is known as one of the more straightforward 4000m mountains in Italy that you can summit. Saying that, it is helpful if you have some winter mountaineering experience under your belt as this will be an alpine experience crossing glaciers, requiring ropes and with some exposed scrambling sections closer to the summit. When to climb Gran Paradiso? It is best to climb between June and September, as the weather is more favourable then and the alpine huts are open. What you will need: harness crampons (mine were provided by the guide as I couldn't carry them with me) boots (doesn't need to be winter as long as they are crampon compatible) poles suitable clothing and layers (it may start off warm when you are leaving the car park but the summit will be cold) down jacket waterproofs (jacket & trousers) sleeping bag liner headtorch - it is advisable to take one although we didn't really need ours as the morning light was beginning to break through A lot of other groups had helmets and ice axes - our guide carried the ice axe and crevasse rescue kit and helmets aren't deemed 100% necessary - but that is very much down to the individual and group leader. Day 1 of Summiting Gran Paradiso Around about midday I met up with Roberto (the legend who pulled this all together), Michele (our alpine guide) and their two friends Frisco & Allesandro in Aosta and from here we drove on to Pravieux, Valsavarench to start the hike. This is the most popular starting point and you can hike to either of the rifugi from here. We were heading for Rifugio Chabod . After a quick gear check, we set off from the car park at around 3pm and made our way up through a forest which was pretty steep with lots of switch backs. The ascent through the forest was hot and the sun was beating down. After about 45 minutes of walking we reached an opening where there was a building of some kind and a water trough where we could refill our bottles with fresh water from the mountains. We continued on our journey and before long we could see the north face of Gran Paradiso towering in the distance - the excitement was really starting to build. We finally reached the rifugio at around 5pm which was a very welcoming site, we got settled and treated ourselves to some beer. You can read more about what the rifugio was like here . The evening consisted of discussing tomorrows adventure, getting to know each other, a filling three course meal, a few games of Chinese checkers and cards. Once darkness fell we took in a few last glimpses of the mountain under the stars and set off to bed at around 10pm knowing we had an early rise and huge day ahead the next day. Over the course of the day we went from 1,850m above sea level to 2,700m at the rifugio . Overall, a pretty straightforward and not too physically demanding day. Day 2 of Summiting Gran Paradiso We had planned that a 5am breakfast would give us plenty time to reach the summit and safely descend from the mountain and across the glaciers - as the day goes on and the sun gets hotter there is a risk of the snow melting making a more dangerous glacier crossing. We left the rifugio at 5.30am under the moonlight for our summit push (although I believe some other groups chose to set off even earlier). It was only necessary to use our head torches for around 15 minutes before the morning light was sufficient to turn them off. A well maintained hiking path assists you to ascend a moraine ridge - this looked a lot steeper from a distance than it was when we were on it (I was out of breath just looking at it 😅). We stopped just before the Glacier del Laveciau to put on our crampons before traversing the glacier and navigating around crevasses - sometimes crossing them via snow bridges, which were built from packed frozen snow allowing you to cross over the middle of the glacier with holes at either side. This was something I had never done before and was equally daunting and exciting. You could see that some of the crevasses were just newly filled with a fresh dusting of snowfall, but underneath this would be a huge plunging hole. Great care had to be taken here to not tread somewhere we shouldn't. From here it was up and up, making sure our crampons were gripping to the icy glacier underfoot. Finally we reached the Schiena d'Asino "the donkeys back" which was a sort of plateau before the final ascent - I felt like part of the hike leading up to here went on forever, I actually found this the hardest bit. I remember feeling tired and my legs were just done and breathing was a bit tough - not so much because the altitude just cause I'm unfit tbh 😅. The weather was a bit ropey on the donkeys back, visibility was low and we were getting battered by the cold. We stopped for a quick snack and to regain energy before pushing on. From here it was only about 200m more to reach the summit, it was really exciting whilst we were going up and passing everyone coming down who had already summited. You could almost feel their elation. The route continues up a steep exposed slope towards the ridge. There is one final glacier crossing which was pretty simple when we did it but our guide did tell us that sometimes very early or late in the season a ladder is required to cross here. We kept our crampons on for the final rocky scramble, finally climbing metal rungs that made a ladder in the face of the rock. This last 60m section to the top was my favourite - it was really exciting with some pretty hairy exposure and rope sections for which you need basic climbing skills. After the final pull up from the ladder we had finally reached the summit which was marked with a statue of the Madonnina - signifying the mountains importance to Italy. We had made it wooohoooo! To descend from the summit you had to cross probably the most narrow and exposed part of the day but there are fixed anchors for you to rope into - now for some reason I had got into my head about this from watching videos and reading blogs but on the day it didn't phase me at all. Just keep your cool and you will breeze it! As we reached this part the clouds that were hanging over us lifted into beautiful blue skies and we were treated to a panorama of the surrounding alps. When we reached the summit there were no queues (which I had previously read about causing a bit of a problem) so maybe we just got lucky and we got there at about 10am - around 4.5 hours after leaving the rifugio. The descent saw us taking the other route down and passing Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele (most of the time you will ascend & descend via the same route). I feel like we got to the rifugio pretty quick as spirits were high and there was even some snow sliding (safely) on the way down. We took a break here for some lunch, well deserved beers and a rest. I tried Italian crispella which is very similar to lasagne. This rifugio was super busy as I believe it is popular with day hikers as well as those staying overnight to summit Gran Paradiso. The descent from here was pretty simple but to me it seemed like it took FOREVER, I think it's because it had been such a long day and there was so many switch backs. But the stunning scenery along the way made up for it. We finished at La Breuill where there was a large mountain hut (and more beers) before Michele hitched a lift to the start point to retrieve the car. Top Tips & Questions Training - you should be physically fit and mountaineering experience would be beneficial. A good level of fitness is required as the summit morning is long. Altitude - I felt completely fine but I guess some people may experience a shift in the altitude and notice a small change in their breathing as the air becomes thinner. Staying in the hut the night before is important to allow your body to acclimatise. Guiding - whilst this mountain can be done independently, I would highly recommend getting a guide who is knowledgeable of the area and of the movements of the glaciers Staying in the Rifugio - I believe both rifugi to be fairly similar so this information should cover both The rifugio is around 50 euros per night which includes a 3 course meal and breakfast 3 course meal - soup, pasta, a meat dish and desert (I had a crème caramel) there is limited signal but it can be found by walking a short distance It slept around 70 people over two floors so it can be pretty busy and noisy you will be sharing a room with numerous groups so take ear plugs the rifugi on this route are extremely hospitable you will be given shoes to wear inside and must leave your dirty boots at the door there are games to play for evening entertainment Where To Stay Before Your Hike? I'd recommend staying in Aosta Valley or near to there, I stayed at Villa Kate just outside Aosta. After having just come off the Gran Paradiso Circuit Trek , I decided I needed a few rest days and this was the perfect place. Only a 20 minute walk to Aosta - which is a lovely place to spend a day. You can read about things to do in Aosta here. And with that I've reached the end of my blog. I hope I've given you a good insight into what summiting Gran Paradiso is like. As always if you have any questions or feedback, please leave a comment below and any shares or likes are appreciated. Happy Adventuring 🌄

Bringing you the most scenic waterfalls views and where to find them in each part of Scotland. I've made a wee map so you can see where they all are (this took me ages btw 😅 and I'm starting to feel like a dinosaur with technology). If you have any suggestions for waterfalls I should visit, please leave a comment. Check out my top castles to visit in Scotland . The best waterfalls to visit on your trip to Scotland: (In no particular order) Falls of Bruar Location: Blair Atholl Postcode: PH18 5TW For this adventure, I'd suggest parking at the House of Bruar. It's free, and you can grab some tasty snacks for your walk. The walk is about 1.5 miles and takes around an hour to see both the upper and lower falls. The path to the upper falls can be pretty steep, so it's a good idea to wear sturdy shoes. Toward the top the path can be quite steep and narrow, I'd suggest going up the left path and come down the right. Along the way, you'll enjoy impressive trees and beautiful views. You'll also find some cute little tunnels and a bridge that's a popular spot for photos. Falls of Foyer Location: Inverness Postcode: FK20 8RL These falls exceeded my expectations all across the board, falling at an impressive height of 140 feet. This is certainly a hidden gem with minimal effort to get to from the roadside. To reach the upper viewpoint, you'll need to descend a pretty steep staircase with approximately 100 steps. There are a few side quests where you can go and visit a little locked gate to a dark underground room. You can reach the upper falls viewpoint within 5-10 minutes from the entrance. If you want more adventure then continue on to the lower viewpoint for breath-taking views of the gorge. There's a shop and café at the entrance where you can grab snacks and caffeine to recharge before or after your journey.  For more to do around this area check out my blog about the Scottish Highlands . Plodda Falls Location: Cannich, Near Glen Affric Postcode: IV4 7LY For me the highlight of these falls is the thrilling viewing point which hangs over the falls, it really is an unforgettable experience. After a beautiful scenic drive here you will come across a parking lot in the middle of the woodlands. From the parking area, a short walk leads to the wooden platform that extends over the edge, offering a thrilling birds eye view over the 151-foot waterfall. The platform is sturdy enough but you can sometimes feel it move slightly in the wind so be sure to bring your head for heights. For further exploration, a path winds through an impressive group of towering fir trees, leading to a lower viewing platform formed by the trees' roots giving you natures own viewing platform. This spot offers a unique perspective of the falls, with the powerful sound of water crashing down. The combination of lush greenery and the majestic waterfall creates a breath-taking scene that will leave a lasting impression. Whether you're an adventurer or a nature lover, this experience is one to treasure. Steall Falls Location: Glen Nevis, Fort William Postcode: PH33 6SY Located in Glen Nevis in the Scottish Highlands, the journey to the falls is almost as impressive as the falls themselves and includes a thrilling wire rope suspension bridge. I'd say it's around a 40 minute walk here from the Upper Falls Carpark, with views of mountains and a peaceful river running parallel to the path. Crossing the high rope bridge to get to the falls is an exciting way to cross the river (it's also possible to wade through the water when it is not in spate). Steall Falls is Scotland's second highest waterfall, featuring a drop of 120 meters. The cascading water creates a misty spray and rainbows, adding to its enchanting ambiance. The area holds significance for Harry Potter fans, as several scenes were filmed here, capturing the mystical essence of the wizarding world. With scenic views in the glen, I would recommend taking a picnic and making a day out of it. Den Finella Location: St Cyrus Postcode: DD10 0DN Den Finella Waterfall, also known as the "lost waterfall of Scotland," is a hidden gem located between St Cyrus and Johnshaven in Aberdeenshire. This is one of the more difficult ones on this list to get to, as it you have to climb down a steep hillside aided by ropes. You may be lucky enough to find parking on the bridge, then be surprised to find that the waterfall is pretty much right underneath it. To get there, you need to head into the woods and follow a grassy path which then leads down the very steep descent, which can be a extremely slippery if it's been raining. Someone has placed ropes here to help you down but you must take extreme care. The banks, trees and sides of the waterfall are covered in ferns and ivy. The waterfall drops around 80 feet, and you can climb the rocks on the right hand side to get closer and take a dip in the pools underneath the waterfall. It is a truly wonderful place to swim. If you don't want to climb down, you can still catch views of the falls by walking along to the old viaduct. I absolutely love this secret spot, but if you go, be extra careful. Gray Mare's Tail Location: Kinlochleven Postcode: PH50 4SH This wonderful spot feels like something directly out of a fairy-tale. You will hear the waterfall roaring long before it comes into view, creating a natural song. To get there it is a pleasant walk through the woodland area with some steep paths but it is pretty easy to reach. For the daring, there are planks, re-bar steps fixed into the rock and an exciting wire bridge over the water which will allow you to get up closer to the waterfall. For an even bigger adventure, you can book Scotland's only Via Ferrata trail here . This will take you on a thrilling adventure with safety cables and harnesses, letting you climb right up the waterfall. Mealt Falls (Kilt Rock) Location: Staffin, Skye Postcode: IV51 9JE These two amazing natural spots are on the Isle of Skye, right on the edge of a cliff. The waterfall plunges down 60 meters, with a basalt sea cliff towering 90 meters high around it. The rocks are known as Kilt Rock because the columns resembles the pleats on a kilt - the Scottish national dress. There an accessible viewing platform near the parking lot where you can check out the falls and the cool rock formation. Sometimes, you might even see wildlife like puffins, whales, and dolphins. It can get pretty crowded during the holidays. If you are in Skye, I would definitely recommend stopping here on your trip. Black Spout Location: Pitlochry Postcode: PH16 5RB You can easily reach Black Spout Waterfall from the forest car park in about 10 minutes, with only a slight incline. The trail offers a picturesque hike through vibrant woodlands. The waterfall, standing over 60 meters tall, cascades down a rocky cliff into a tranquil pool, creating a stunning view, which is particularly impressive after heavy rain. The viewing platform provides a remarkable sight of the falls, but you can walk a bit further to get closer to the pools. The area is popular for hiking, birdwatching, and picnics. If you wish to extend your walk, it's possible to reach here from the centre of Pitlochry. Falls of Falloch Location: Near Crainlarich Postcode: FK20 8RL This stunning waterfall in the Scottish Highlands is formed by the River Falloch. A brief ten minute walk from the carpark leads you to this impressive sight. You can take a walk through the caged tunnel to give you a better vantage point of the falls, which are particularly impressive after heavy rain. You may find a lot of people swimming in the pools during the good weather, and even some daredevils jumping from the rocks, but please be careful as people have been seriously injured here in the past. A very popular spot which can get over crowded in the summer months and parking can become an issue. Unless you are taking a picnic or having a swim, this could be a relatively short stop on your journey. Maspie Den Location: Falkland Estate, Fife Postcode: KY15 7AD A waterfall that you can walk behind? Sign me up! You will find it at the end of a scenic woodland walk through the Falkland Estate. The trail takes you through a glen, across wooden bridges, through tunnels, and through the forest until you reach the Yad waterfall. There's a path that lets you stand right behind the falling water. Just be careful—the path can get pretty muddy and slippery when it rains. It's a lovely short walk with signs on boulders to help you find your way. However, there's not much phone signal here, so make sure you have a copy of the route before you head out. If you're up for a longer or tougher hike, you can start from the Pillars of Hercules or check out the nearby Lomond Hills for more adventure. Find other exciting things to do in Fife . The above are the best waterfalls to visit on your trip to Scotland that I have uncovered so far. What do you think? Are there any more waterfalls in Scotland that you think I should visit? Feel free to check out my other blogs about exploring in Scotland .

Here in Scotland we are lucky to still have around 1000 historical castles scattered across the country in some incredible locations. I am compiling a list of the best historical castles that I have visited that I think you will love. As always this is a working list so will be forever growing and changing. If you have any suggestions of ones to add, please leave a suggestion in the comments. Check out the best waterfalls to visit in Scotland . Best Historical Castles to Visit on Your Trip to Scotland Edinburgh Castle Location - Edinburgh Postcode - EH1 2NG Cost - £19.50 online Let's start with one of Scotland's most famous castles, the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Located in the heart of Edinburgh atop Castle Rock, it's a must-see when visiting the capital. Dating back to the 12th century, the castle has served as a royal residence, a military base, and has always been a significant symbol of Scottish heritage. Entry to the castle costs £20 if booked online (recommended due to long queues and possible sell outs), and you will need at least 3 hours for your visit to explore properly. As one of Edinburgh's top tourist attractions, it can get very crowded, so be prepared for lots of people. Inside, you'll step back in time to see the Stone of Destiny, the Crown Jewels of Scotland, and the Great Hall filled with medieval weapons. If you're there at 1pm, you can experience the firing of the one o'clock gun. Annually, the castle hosts the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, an incredible event that fills you with Scottish pride. With stunning views of the city, the castle really showcases Scotland's history, architecture, and culture, making it well worth a visit. Dunnottar Castle Location - Stonehaven Postcode - AB39 2TL Cost - £13 This magnificent 14th-century castle is believed to have inspired the castle in Disney's "Brave." As you approach, you'll see it spectacularly perched on top of a 160 ft cliff, offering breath taking views of the North Sea. Below the castle, there's a small bay where the waves come crashing in - it's pretty mesmerizing, and you might even spot some seals. There are quite a lot of stairs leading down to the castle (around 150 I think, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes). If you prefer not to tackle the steps, the views of the castle from above are equally impressive. Entry to the castle costs £13, allowing you to explore the ruins that once belonged to one of Scotland's most powerful families. With its dramatic appearance, it is a favourite among filmmakers, making it an iconic symbol of Scottish heritage. Definitely worth a visit if you are near the east coast. Craigievar Castle Location - Alford Postcode - AB33 8JF Cost - £17 Is this the Scottish castle that inspired Walt Disney? Craigievar is said to be the inspiration behind the enchanting Disney castles with its magical architecture. The grounds around the castle are charming with beautiful lawns, well kept gardens and vibrant flowerbeds which creates even more of a story book setting. We did not book to go inside but I believe inside there are a number of well preserved rooms filled with elegant furnishings and stunning artwork. Please be aware that if you would like to go inside, you must book a tour in person and numbers are limited so you may have to wait outside for a while. The castle's pink exterior and fairy-tale design attract photographers and social media enthusiasts, offering a unique and striking setting. This Scottish castle is a breath taking sight steeped in history and inspiration, captivating visitors with its magic. Elcho Castle Location - Perth Postcode - PH2 8QQ Cost - £8.50 A hidden gem located between Dundee and Perth, which I only discovered a few months ago. For just £8.50, you can explore the remaining floors of this well-preserved 16th-century castle. Inside, you'll find the banquet room, chambers, grand staircase, kitchen, and the most long drop toilets I have ever seen under one roof!! The castle was originally constructed as a "party castle," which might explain the abundance of toilets? The views from the top floor are stunning, but make sure you have a head for heights and don't mind some rather large cobwebs in the turret rooms. If heights aren't your thing, you can explore the lower floors and take a stroll through the beautiful orchards to pick some fruit. They often offer guided tours, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the castle's history and its regional significance. At the reception desk, I believe they have medieval costumes available for hire if you want to take some photos and pretend to be a princess for the day. This is a fantastic day out and an excellent way to spend time away from the nearby cities, I would highly recommend a visit here. If you would like to find other things to do in the area check out this blog . Kelburn Castle Location - Largs Postcode - KA29 0BE Cost - £5 parking A 13th-century castle in Ayrshire that underwent a controversial transformation in the early 2000s by a group of Brazilian artists, making it a vibrant and unmissable landmark. Surrounded by lush gardens, the castle hosts numerous events and garden parties throughout the year. With a rich history of noble tales and resilience, the interior boasts grand halls and luxurious rooms filled with antiques and art, reflecting Scottish aristocratic life. The secret garden on the grounds is worth exploring for an additional £5 entry fee. The estate features stunning gardens adorned with art and sculptures by local artists, a variety of plants and trails, waterfalls, farm animals, breath taking views, and offers a tranquil escape. It’s an excellent day out for both adults and children and you can spend so long exploring here. If the weather is nice this is a great place to enjoy a picnic or a tasty snack from the café. Eilean Donan Castle Location - Kyle of Lochalsh Postcode - IV40 8DX Cost - £12 Is this one of the most iconic views in Scotland? Eilean Donan is a stunning 13th-century medieval fortress that stands where three sea lochs meet, giving this spot breath taking landscapes. Restored in the mid 1900's, it retains its historical and architectural beauty. To enter the castle it will cost you £12, allowing you to explore the rich history of the inside of the castle. Please note that photography inside the castle is not allowed. At night, the illuminated castle offers a fairy tale scene, attracting photographers and romantics. A gift shop and café at the entrance provide souvenirs and refreshments with views of the lochs - you do not need to enter the castle to enjoy its beauty. Castle Ruins in Scotland Dunskey Castle Location - Portpatrick Postcode - DG9 9AA Cost - Free Located on the southwestern coast of Scotland these castle remains are an absolutely amazing place to explore. Dunskey Castle, a 16th century structure, is rumoured to be haunted. Despite its age, the castle remains in relatively good condition and can be explored with caution. You can roam through the crumbling rooms of what used to be a grand building . You can even go down to the cellar where the pigeons might make you jump out your skin with fright as you venture in to each new room. It is easy to picture how glorious this must have been back in the day. The castle is rumoured to be haunted by a nurse maid, piper, jester and a hairy man - quite a quirky crew. I honestly think I might have caught a ghost in a video on my phone - but haters will say it was dust. To reach the castle, park at the harbour in Portpatrick and walk from there. The coastal walk to the castle takes you up steep stairs and across a wooden bridge where you are towering over the sea cliffs - a thrilling sight to see the gulls swooping underneath you around the cliffs. On a clear day, you can even see all the way over to Ireland Getting to the castle & back takes around an hour but you can continue the walk around the coast using this route .  In my opinion these are the best historical castles to visit in Scotland that I have visited so far. If you have any suggestions of other places to visit, please let me know in the comments. I hope you enjoy exploring them as much as I did. Feel free to check out my other blogs about exploring in Scotland .

I have visited Mull twice now, once on a solo road trip and once with my fiancé. Here's a little list of everything we did there. I know there's so much more to explore on the island, and I'll add more and update the blog when I have the chance to return. We travelled in a campervan, so accommodation wasn't an issue - we also did some wild camping for a night. If you plan to do this, please be considerate and take all your rubbish with you. Always leave no trace. The simplest way for me to reach Mull was by taking the Calmac Ferry from Oban to Craignure (other route option are available), which cost about £50 and took less than an hour. Things To Do: Climb Ben More The only Munro on Mull. You will find Ben More standing tall in the centre of the Island, with a 6-mile route that's fairly easy to follow. It should take about 4 hours to complete. We were fortunate with the weather and enjoyed stunning views of the surrounding islands and the mainland. There's also an option to take the ridge route from A'Chioch, but we were short on time during this visit. However, I'd love to return to tackle the more challenging route to the summit. The summit of Ben More Tràigh na Cille - Black Sand Beach A secluded spot on the west coast with fascinating black volcanic sands. There is a short 30 minute walk from parking your car near the bridge of Allt Na Cille. This is a pleasant walk on which we found a rope swing across the river, so naturally we had to have a go. Sometimes, if you are lucky there will be cows in the water, having a little paddle or cooling off on a hot day. If you have the weather on your side this is a great spot to spend some time or even take a picnic. Calgary Bay Is this the most iconic beach on Mull? With a long stretch of white sand and clear water, this sheltered bay is perfect to spend the day chilling on the sand, walking along the beach or taking a wee dip. We enjoyed a refreshing swim here, had a small portable BBQ on the beach (please tidy up after yourself & make sure you leave no mess) and watched the sunset. Keep on the lookout for sea eagles as they are often spotted here. Visit Tobermory "What's the story in Balamory wouldn't you like to know" - this may immediately pop into your head as the title song of the hit children's TV show Balamory in the early 2000's. The main town of Mull, Tobermory is a quaint little fishing village with cheerful coloured houses. A busy tourist spot with lots of lovely cafes & fresh seafood coming from the harbour. There is a lot for tourists to do around here including visiting the museum, a distillery, go to view the lighthouse or my favourite... head to Aros park to see the Aros waterfall. Boat Trip to Staffa - Puffin Spotting & Fingal's Cave We took a delightful 3 hour trip with Staffa Tours , leaving from Fionnphort and stopping to pick up passengers from Iona (which gives you the opportunity to hop off here and explore Iona on the way back if you wish to do so.) The ticket price was around £40 per adult and it was worth every penny. As you approach the caves by boat you will see the impressive hexagonal basalt columns rising dramatically from the sea up ahead and hear the magical music of the waves crashing against the columns. This is amplified by the arched roof and sounds almost like an organ being played in a cathedral - I believe the caves were the inspiration behind a very famous orchestral piece "Hebrides Overture" composed by Felix Mendelssohn after visiting the caves. Once arriving at the island you have your own free time to explore and can enter the cave by walking along the basalt columns, and take a short hike up onto the hill top. This is a very famous spot for spotting Puffins as they breed here every summer. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, porpoises and minke whales as they can often be spotted playing around in the waters. Staffa is uninhabited so there will be no toilets, cafes or shops on your visit - plan ahead. Fingal's cave shares the same geological origins as The Giants Causeway in Northern Ireland and it is thought that at some point many moons ago the lands were connected. The legend of Fingal's Cave - A famous Scottish story is that of two giants with a long standing feud. The Irish giant Fingal (Fionn mac Cumhaill) and Benandonner the Scottish giant were said to have hurled insults at each other across the waters until one day enough was enough - they declared war and a bridge was built from Staffa to The Giants Causeway. Neither of the two had seen each other before and Fingal was intimidated by Benandonners huge size as he saw him crossing the bridge. Being frightened to take on the giant, Fingal's wife cunningly comes up with a plan and dresses Fingal up as a baby and places him in a cot. Benandonner arrives and looks around ready to fight Fingal but upon seeing the enormous size of his "baby" starts to worry about the size of his father. He decides it's best not to stick around to see and flees back to Scotland smashing the bridge up on the way so Fingal cannot follow. Thanks to the giants, this is is why the two places share the same types of basalt columns. Ship Wreck at Salen Beach A quick stopping point on the road from Salen to Tobermorey, you can pull in at the layby by the roadside to see the shipwrecks that have been here since the 1970's. This spot is extremely popular with photographers, and is a great photo opportunity. Fidden Farm Fidden Farm is a gorgeous campsite in a secluded bay on the coastline of Mull. The site is open from the end of Mar - Sept and at only £12 per person per night, it's an absolute bargain for the facilities and the stunning surroundings. With white sandy beaches, clear blue waters perfect for dipping or paddle boarding and some of the most incredible sunsets I have witnessed, this place is certainly worth a visit. Horse Trekking I went out for the afternoon with Mull Pony Trekking , on a private trek up into the hills. I don't think I had planned a private but it was just out of season and I was the only one there which worked out great for me! Liz and her team are super friendly and happy to point out where you may spot wildlife along the way, and the ponies are very well cared for and behaved. It was a lovely trek up into the hillside and to see Mull from a different viewpoint, I even got into a wee canter. There is an option for a beach trek also which I think is very popular. I got lucky with a last minute booking but I would recommend you book in advance especially during peak season. The cost for the trek was £55 and in my opinion, well worth it. Mull is a beautiful island with numerous things to do and I can't wait to return to explore some more. If anyone has any suggestions of other things I should do on my return please feel free to leave a suggestion below. Feel free to check out my other blogs about exploring in Scotland .

This was my first time visiting this incredible part of Scotland without it being a flying visit just to catch the nearby ferry. I really enjoyed exploring a new area and I was blown away by the dramatic cliffs - the coast here reminds me a lot of the Irish coastline - there are so many similarities between the two. The following information on how I spent my time exploring the South West of Scotland. Where To Stay Coorie Retreats Hot Tub at Coorie Retreats If you're looking for an incredible luxury glamping experience then Coorie Retreats is the perfect place. Nestled in between Portpatrick and Stranraer this place has everything for some well deserved relaxation after a long day of exploring. We stayed here for two nights and could have easily stayed more, the hosts really went the extra mile with extra little touches to make your stay special. The cabins come with a wood fired hot tub, pizza oven, outdoor BBQ system, outdoor cinema and a wood burner it is certainly somewhere to get cosy - and they are dog friendly, what more could you want. But don't just take my word for it - check them out here . Things To Do Watch the Sunset at Portpatrick Harbour Portpatrick Sunset I was on my way to Lidl to get supplies for the cabin when I saw the sky light up orange in my rear view mirror, I quickly about turned and headed down to the harbour in Portpatrick. The sunset was glorious and the waves smashing against the rock formations were mesmerising, I could have sat there for hours watching. I could literally see Ireland across the water. Fun fact - this is also the starting point for the Southern Upland Way - a 214 mile trail from coast to coast starting in Portpatrick and finishing in Cockburnspath in the east of Scotland. This takes around 12-15 days and am I now tempted to do this one day? Yes... Yes I am. Galloway Forest Park  The largest forest park in the UK, you could literally spend days exploring here and still have so much to see, but unfortunately I didn't have days so I opted for these which were all in the same section of the park that I visited. This part was about an hours drive from Stranraer. Bruce's Stone Bruce's Stone - a memorial stone to Robert the Bruce commemorating his victory over the English. With stunning views down to Loch Trool this spot is a great place to visit. You can park right beside this in the Upper Bruce Stone car park - DG8 6SU. The Merrick - a wee Corbett and the highest mountain in southern Scotland. A 13km out and back trail that will take you through some incredible scenery. This should take about 4-6 hours, please make sure you are properly equipped and you can find the route here . Buchan Burn - Follow the path for the Merrick for about twenty minutes and it will lead up past the falls. Further up the route before you turn off for the ascent there are great dipping spots. Top tip - the park is great for stargazing on a clear night as there is no light pollution here. Dunskey Castle & Coastal Route Dunskey Castle looking eerie You can park at the harbour in Portpatrick and walk from here. It's a charming fishing village with a few bars. The coastal walk takes you up steep stairs and across a wooden bridge where you are towering over the sea cliffs - a thrilling sight to see the gulls swooping underneath you into the cliffs. On a clear day, you can even see all the way over to Ireland Getting to the castle & back takes around an hour but you can continue the walk around the coast using this route .  Dunskey Castle My favourite spot on this walk is Dunskey Castle, the ruins of a 16th century castle that is said to be haunted. The castle is still in pretty good condition and is sturdy enough to explore with care, you can venture into the ruined rooms in what would once have been a spectacular building. You can even go down to the cellar where the pigeons might make you jump out your skin with fright as you walk to each new room. You can see how glorious this must have been back in the day. The castle is rumoured to be haunted by a nurse maid, piper, jester and a hairy man - quite the crew. I swear I caught a ghost in a video on my phone - haters will say it was dust. To read more about the best castles to explore in Scotland , check out my blog. Mull of Galloway   & Gallie Craig Gallie Craig Around a 45 minute drive from Portpatrick/Stranraer. A lighthouse stands tall on what is the most southern town in Scotland. The exhibition & café were both closed whilst we were there but on a normal day you would be able to take a tour of the lighthouse. This is a great spot for wildlife watching - dolphins, porpoises, whales & basking sharks have all been spotted here.  Gallie Craig   is named as the most southernly point of Scotland. The epic cliff drop views here are something to behold. When you are here a sign shows that you are almost an equal distance between Lands End & John o groats. And a 'short' 2800 mile journey to Senegal where the gannets migrate in the winter. This is definitely worth a visit for the views alone. Dunskey Glen Access to this walk through the estate is only open from March to Oct, although you can join this on to the cave walk below and loop through the estate. This is a lovely walk along a peaceful woodland trail over wooden footbridges and into the glen. This walk will take you around 1-2 hours. Ouchtremachain Cave S tart your adventure at Portpatrick harbour and take the steep path up to the clifftop, following the signs for the Southern Upland Way. You'll come across a cove with a cave in the cliffside. Local legend has it that parents used to bring sick kids to the cave for healing. They’d bathe them under the waterfall and leave some money on an altar inside, hoping for a cure. The next cove, Port Cale, is a historical gem where the first telephone cables between Scotland and Ireland were laid. Port Logan There wasn't a huge amount to do here but it does have a beautiful beach that goes on for miles and an old lighthouse that is worth seeing. I hope you have enjoyed reading my blog - if you have any suggestions, feedback or even just want to leave a nice supportive comment then please do. Feel free to check out my other blogs about exploring Scotland.

After spending some time in the beautiful Cappadocia, my flight home was going to be via Istanbul so I thought it would be rude not to check it out whilst I was there. If you would like to read about what I got up to in Cappadocia click here. I had about 48 hours to spare, so here's what I did and what I wish I could've done with more time. As usual, I didn't plan any of this in advance, but luckily I met a friendly local lady on the metro who shared some great tips with me. Getting There I was already in Turkey, so I just hopped on a flight straight to SAW for just £87. Getting out of the airport is super easy, and there's a metro connection right from the terminal. You'll need to grab a card from a machine, kind of like an oyster card, and then top it up – this card will be a game-changer for your whole trip. It works on almost all types of transport in the city (except for taxis), making it super easy to get around by bus, metro, or even the numerous ferries. The transport system here is seriously impressive. Where to Stay I ended up staying in Sirkeci (old town), which was pretty busy and full of tourists, with lots of shops and restaurants. The buildings looked a bit old and worn out, but the accommodation was quite cheap. It was definitely a popular spot, which actually made me feel a lot safer as a solo traveler. However, if I had met that lady earlier, I might have stayed in Pera/Beyoğlu as she recommended - when I visited there, it seemed really nice and more modern. To do Galata Tower is super easy to reach via the metro, and you have the option to head up the tower for some amazing views of the city. It'll set you back about €30, but just a heads up, the lines can get pretty long. Sunset on Galata Bridge The Galata Bridge in Istanbul is famous for offering panoramic views of the Bosphorus. Visitors can stroll from one side to the other, enjoy a coffee at one of the cafes underneath, and admire local fishermen as they cast their lines into the water. This iconic bridge is a hot-spot location for wedding photos, I saw around ten couples getting their pictures there in the short time I was there. Bosphorus Tour If you're looking for an awesome way to soak in Istanbul's beauty, then hop on the ferry ride up the Bosphorus. You will see the city from a whole new angle and cross between two continents. If you fancy and your budget allows then you can get a private boat charter, but I chose to go for the public ferry instead. It's super cheap at just 200TL (£5/€6), and it's a more authentic and budget-friendly way to enjoy this iconic journey. It can get a little crowded, but grab a seat by the side for the most epic views of Istanbul's skyline. Plus, you'll get to learn more about the sites with the onboard tannoid system giving you information on the city's history. As you sail across the Bosphorus, you'll see this cool mix of old and new – mosques towering next to modern skyscrapers. The trip lasted around two hours and it was a brilliant way to spend part of the day. Grand Bazaar & Spice Bazaar When you visit the Grand Bazaar, you'll be blown away by the tons of shops taking over the little alleys, each with its own cool stuff to check out. It feels a bit chaotic at first, with vendors trying to catch your eye and show off their goods. But that's all part of the experience of the bazaar. It's a dream for bargain hunters, you can grab some awesome souvenirs and gifts to take home. On the flip side, the Spice Bazaar is an experience for the senses. As soon as you walk in, you're hit with a mix of smells from all the spices, teas, and sweets on display. Strolling through the Spice Bazaar isn't just about shopping; it's like a journey for your senses, where you can discover new flavours and dive into the tasty traditions of the area. Each stall has its own story to tell, giving you a taste of the diverse and flavourful world of Turkish cuisine.   Visit Kadikoy - Asian Side Once again, the trusty ferry boat took me to my destination. As soon as you set foot in Kadikoy, you'll be drawn in by all the amazing fresh seafood vendors lining the streets. Kadikoy is buzzing with life, with plenty of bars offering great deals, making it a cool and lively area to check out. Whether you're into happy hours, cosy pizza places, hip burger joints, or authentic sushi spots, you'll find a wide range of delicious options in Kadikoy. I thought that the pricing here seemed a bit cheaper than I had noticed in other areas. This place has a really vibrant atmosphere. Visit Beyoglu I hopped on the Tünel funicular from Karakoy, the second oldest underground train ever, which was a pretty cool way to get there. When I got to Beyoglu, it was buzzing with life and seemed like a great place to grab a drink and do some people-watching. They had some popular stores like Vans, Puma, and Colombia. Clementine Patisserie is located here and does the most amazing frozen fruit juice which were a welcomed find on such a hot day.  I really wish I could've stayed in this area longer. Galataport A cool waterfront complex that let's you break away from the busy city, giving you a mix of chilled and relaxing vibes. You'll find chic shops and yummy restaurants here. Grab a coffee or pastry from Sagra Café or Divan Patisserie and enjoy the waterside view, or stroll along the promenade. And don't forget to go up to the rooftop bar for epic views of the city skyline and the water. Galataport is a must-visit for those looking for a touch of sophistication and charm. I would also recommend visiting the streets nearby (Hoka Tahsin street) as they are really trendy and have lots of quirky bars. Mosques  - On this trip I personally didn't have enough time to visit and go inside but I was lucky enough to pass Hagia Sofia and the Blue mosque and admiring them from the outside is equally as breath-taking. Boat Trip to Balat Jump on the ferry boat to Balat - a must visit destination for those looking for something a little different. There is a very arty vibe here with the colourful houses, cute cafes and and historic vibes. See if you can find the street with the hanging umbrellas. Istanbul Museum of Modern Art If you are looking for something a bit different, the MOMA offers a unique cultural experience. Located at Galataport on the Bospherous, you can explore the collections of paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia exhibits. The museum has a viewing terrace for incredible views across the city. The entry fee of 650TL. Recommendations for places to eat Around Sirkeci, it felt pretty hectic with folks trying to drag you into their restaurants without giving you a chance to check out the menu. Still, I did get to enjoy a delicious Adana Kebab in a restaurant close to my hotel despite all that. Here are some of the hidden gems I discovered throughout the city: Clementine Patisserie - best for drinks & brunches. Located in Beyoglu. I only had a few of the frozen juices but they were incredible and from what I saw the lunches looked great. This is a very Instagram worthy spot. Dönerci Engin'in Yer  - best for street kebabs, visit before 3pm. Located in Pera Ozsut Cafe - breakfast spot, Located in Beyoglu next to Tunel.  Antiochia  - restaurant near Beyoglu - good for a kebab. Pandeli Restaurant - located on the way into spicy bazaar. Bit more expensive, but a good recommendation if you are looking for a nice treat.  Pera Palace Hotel - traditional afternoon tea in a luxury setting. Overall Istanbul is a wonderfully vibrant city to visit. I hope this guide will assist you in planning the perfect trip. If you would like to read about what I got up to in Cappadocia click here. Or for any of my other adventures my blogs can be found here .

Having Cappadocia on my bucket list for quite some time, I decided to take the plunge and embark on a solo trip in August 2024. This guide details my personal approach, what I could have improved, and invaluable tips. I actually didn't have anything booked and basically winged it as I went along. Pre-booking would probably be a lot more cost effective and less stressful but also just know that it is possible if you are a scatter brain like myself. I stayed for three nights and I was satisfied that I managed to squeeze enough in. Truthfully, I was ready to leave by this point as I struggled to do things during the day - it was so unbelievably hot when I was there that I was just slothing around like a big slug all day and I'm not too good at sitting still. However if you are looking for a relaxing trip then you may want to consider staying longer. If you would like to read about what I got up to in Istanbul click here. Flights So I left everything pretty last minute, even booking my flight home the day before I left Istanbul. But if you plan ahead, you can find some pretty cheap flights to Istanbul SAW airport. From there, you can easily catch a flight to either Kayseri (about an hour away from Cappadocia) or Nevsehir (around 40 minutes away). I landed in Kayseri and then tried taking the public bus to Goreme - to be honest, it was a long and hot journey. I'd recommend just taking a taxi from the airport instead, as it's quicker, more comfortable & not that costly. I flew back from Nevsehir because the flight times to Istanbul were better for me. The airport is small, but that's great because it's super quick to navigate through security and reach your gate since everything is so close together. Accommodation Choosing to stay in Goreme was perfect for me. It's surrounded by the cool fairy chimneys and caves, plus it's super close to bars, restaurants, tourist attractions and shops – perfect for first time visitors. After looking at multiple options online I decided to stay at Elite Cave Suites and it was a great decision! I bagged a queen room with a balcony view at an amazing price. The hotel has a balcony spot for watching hot air balloons and seeing the town light up at night. Bonus - the hotel had cute kittens nearby and a very friendly dog who liked to visit the reception area. The staff here were extremely helpful and friendly. Activities Sunset Horse Ride I last-minute booked this trip on my first night, around an hour before I was due to be picked up. I initially struggled finding an available spot but I persisted in visiting different travel operators until I scored a space with Tripster Travel who provided a brilliant service. It cost me around £35 for a two-hour adventure, and they made sure I got smoothly picked up from my hotel and taken to Goreme horse ranch. The horseback ride through Rose Valley to the sunset viewpoint was absolutely magical, with stunning views of the town glowing in the golden light. Despite the crowds from different tour groups, it was truly an unforgettable experience. Take a Balloon Ride I managed to make this booking the night before the trip for about £70 (after a little comparison shopping), which I think was pretty lucky since someone else I chatted with later in the week got charged £150! Balloon rides always kick off at sunrise, so get ready to get out of bed early - I got picked up at 4.15am. Sometimes they can be cancelled due to rubbish weather, so I'd recommend booking it for one of the first days of your trip just in case. That way, if the weather's not great, you'll maybe have time to reschedule. I got picked up by the tour operator and taken to the balloon launch site where we got to see them getting set up - it was truly an awesome sight watching the balloons inflate one by one before we hopped on board. The baskets were massive, fitting about 25 people. We soared up to around 1000ft, taking in the breath-taking view of the village below and the sky filled with other balloons - must've been around 150 up there in total. We spent around an hour in the air, and it was worth every penny. Once back on solid ground, they gave us a certificate and some champagne (non-alcoholic - tasted like Red Bull). The company I flew with was Istanbul Balloons , and their guides were super helpful the whole time. An experience I'll never forget. Watch the Sunset I was really lucky to have booked a hotel that was up high and had a viewpoint across the town so I could watch the sun set from the comfort of my own balcony. If this isn't an option for you then y ou can go up to the "highest point" which was super close to my hotel but it seemed to be pretty busy (there was a queue when I walked around the corner.) There is also a 20TL entry fee to this particular viewpoint - so for me in this instance my hotel was the winning choice. There are plenty of spots near Goreme to catch a stunning sunset, a like the panoramic view point at Love Valley or Red valley. If you're staying longer it might be worth exploring these different options. Wake up early to watch the balloons in flight Getting up early to catch the balloons from your balcony is such an amazing experience. You can see them gliding through the town, sometimes coming so close overhead that it feels like they might crash into the buildings. It's pretty awesome to watch them all up in the sky, giving you a whole different vibe from being inside one of them. If you don't have a balcony view, no worries - just head to the highest point or a panoramic spot like I mentioned earlier for a great alternative. Another cool idea is to visit the spot where the balloons take off. You'll be right there as they prepare for flight and lift off right above you. It's a fantastic experience! Visit Love Valley Around a 30-minute walk from Goreme or just a quick 5 minutes in a taxi, Love Valley is totally free to visit. The valley got its name from the rock formations that look erm... a bit phallic - they're quite a sight to see. Besides that, there are cool hiking trails, caves, and more sights to check out. I'd suggest hiking through the valley; you'll stumble upon Keles café tucked away in the middle, a real lifesaver on a scorching day. They serve up fresh lemonade, beers, and water, and you can chill in the shade for a bit - a hidden gem. There is also the option to go up to the Love Valley viewpoint at the top, where you can grab lunch at the café, and snap some Instagram-worthy pics. Top tips & other fun activities If your hotel doesn't have a pool as mine didn't, you can find some pools that are open to the public in other hotels (obviously you should buy drinks etc). I used my hotels sister chain and I've never been so thankful for that cold water in the 33 degree heat. There are so many other activity options in and around Goreme but I guess it just depends on your interests and how you wish to spend your time. A few alternative options for you to consider on your trip are: Taking a Turkish bath - there are lots of places you can do this here, this just isn't something I think I would personally enjoy. A sunset buggy ride - for me it was this or the horses and I love horses so that won. Visit all the different valleys - they all have different unique features and are worth a visit in their own right. Visit the open air museum - a large collection of monasteries and cave churches. I hope this helps you to plan your stay in Cappadocia. For me it was now time to head off to Istanbul, you can read all about my trip here.

The Italian Dolomites is without a shadow of a doubt one of the most breath-taking places I have visited. There really is something for everyone - hiking, climbing, mountain biking, beautiful scenery and all activities to suit various skill levels. I have put together a list of what I think are the best hikes and activities to do whilst you are there. I have included links to some of the Alltrails hiking routes for you to use on your adventures. For 30% off Alltrails+ you can use this link - this is my go to app for exploring in different countries. Getting To The Dolomites - Each time I have visited I have flew carrying only hand luggage to Venice Marco Polo then rented a car at the airport to continue the drive down into the Dolomites. Depending on what time you land it is worth considering whether you would prefer to stay overnight near the airport to continue the drive the next morning or whether to continue the same evening. When to Go - In my opinion, the best months to visit the Dolomites are May, early June, or September, when tourist numbers are lower. However, one should be ready for unpredictable weather, including storms and potential snow. While July and August offer warmer temperatures and a higher likelihood of pleasant weather, I find these months excessively crowded for a truly enjoyable visit. Things to Do in the Dolomites - There is an abundance of activities to experience in the Dolomites, and this little guide highlights my personal favourites - from epic hiking trails to quirky leisure pursuits, and even some thrilling via ferrata routes for the daredevils among us. These lists are presented in no specific ranking order. Hikes & Viewpoints - Cadini Di Misurina Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint This is really one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Dolomites and with only around a 30 minute hike from the parking area it really is maximum reward for minimum effort. I'd also recommend combining this with number 4 as you are in the same area. There is parking for the start of this hike at the Rifugio Auronzo (this fills up quickly during the busy months) and you are required to pay €30 for the toll road entry. * This route is incredibly popular with tourists and can sometimes be overcrowded with long queues so I would aim to get there as early as possible. And if you don't like crowds maybe best to sit this one out. You can use Alltrails route - https://www.alltrails.com/trail/italy/veneto/rifugio-auronzo-cadini-di-misurina?u=i&sh=uvmy9w 2. Lago di Sorapis Starting from Cortina area, this is a pretty challenging hike to a beautiful blue alpine lake surrounded by the mountains. The route up is pretty exposed and has steep stairs so make sure you have a head for heights and appropriate footwear. Once you have visited the lake you have two options - you can either retrace your steps back the way you came or complete the circle route which takes you down a rather steep and scree path (pictured below) . I'd suggest the loop solely for more experienced hikers (also optional to do the steep scree path on this route first then come down from the lake via the out & back) * Be aware that there are signs prohibiting swimming in the lake here. Out & back route 7.1 miles - https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/italy/veneto/passo-tre-croci-lago-sorapis?u=i&sh=uvmy9w Looped route 8.4 miles - https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/italy/veneto/passo-tre-croci-lago-di-sorapis-forcella-marcuoira?u=i&sh=uvmy9w 3. Lago di Braies Lago Di Braies Undoubtedly one of the most renowned lakes in the Dolomites. The hike around the lake is straightforward and should take you no more than 2 hours. Parking is available at the P2 or P3 carparks for approximately €8. It's important to note that the car parks reach capacity quickly, so I suggest arriving early in the morning or later in the day - after 4pm to avoid the crowds. Our visit during sunset was truly breath-taking, with the mountains bathed in a mesmerizing golden hue. For a different experience, consider renting a rowboat for €25-€30 to explore the lake. While the starting point of the hike can be crowded, as you progress along the loop, you'll find fewer fellow hikers. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/italy/south-tyrol/lago-di-braies-pragser-wildsee?u=i&sh=uvmy9w 4. Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike. This is a 7-mile relatively easy hike around the famous three peaks, a super popular trail that can be pretty busy, but totally worth it. You'll see tons of amazing views along the way, making it a really satisfying adventure without being too hard. Don't forget you can stop for lunch and some refreshments at the rifugios along the route (note that some may be closed during winter, so it's advisable to confirm in advance and carry cash). Aim to get to the trail as early as possible for parking (6am or 7am) and be prepared to wait in a queue at the tolls. As per number 1 in this list the parking for the start of this hike is at the Rifugio Auronzo (this can fill up completely) and you are required to pay €30 for the toll road entry. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/italy/veneto/tre-cime-di-lavaredo-laghi-dei-piani?u=i&sh=uvmy9w 5. Piz Boe Piz Boe summit This exhilarating hike will take you to the summit of Piz Boe, a wonderful rocky mountain towering over 3000 meters (10,000 ft) above sea level. The rugged terrain made me feel like I was in Arizona or something which was a welcomed contrast to the green pastures I has been surrounded with previously. The panoramic views of the surrounding grey, rocky mountains stretching for miles will leave you in awe. The final ascent to the summit is challenging, with steep inclines, scrambling sections, some ferrata holds, and wire ropes. However, this is absolutely do-able without specialized ferrata equipment. Just exercise caution, maintain sure footing, and face the heights with confidence. There are two hiking routes that I know of to lead to this pinnacle: The trail from Pordoi Pass is better for those who want a challenge there is a particularly demanding final stretch before you reach Rifugio Forcella Pordoi (you might really need that beer by the time you get there). You will come a steep ascent over loose scree, but you can navigate through this by using the zigzagging path. Note that passing other hikers on the scree section might be challenging, and trekking poles could prove beneficial for extra support (although not essential, as I don't have them). You will merge onto the same path as the chairlift option before continuing on towards the ultimate summit. Alternatively, for a simpler ascent, consider taking the chairlift from Pordoi Pass, priced at around €26, ascending to Rifugio Maria, followed by a scenic hour-long walk to the summit. Hike to the summit - https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/italy/veneto/passo-pordoi-piz-boe?sh=uvmy9w&u=i Chair lift - https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/italy/trentino/piz-boe-via-sasso-pordoi?sh=uvmy9w&u=i 6. Tofana di Mezzo This is the third highest summit in the Dolomites, standing proudly at 3244 meters (10,643 feet) in the Cortina area, on a clear day, you will be rewarded with awesome 360-degree view of the Dolomites from up there. The last 5 minutes to the top involve a bit of a scramble and a narrow path.  Unfortunately, I didn't get many pictures from the summit because it was super cloudy when I went and I couldn't see much. If you're not up for the scramble, there's a viewpoint lower down where you can still enjoy some epic views. For around 40 euros, you can hop on the Funiva Tofano cable car (it's a quick hike from there). On your way back down, I suggest checking out Lago Ghedina, a beautiful heart-shaped lake nestled among the mountains. If you take the cable car up, you can reach the lake with a short hike from the first station. There is also a via ferrata here if you fancied a more adrenaline fuelled journey to the top. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/italy/veneto/tofana-di-mezzo-via-rifugio-tofana?u=i&sh=uvmy9w 7. Seceda Hike The Seceda ridgeline is absolutely stunning - with the paragliders flying around when I visited, I could have easily spent hours just taking it all in. You can start this hike from Ortisei, but many people choose to take the cable car to Col Raiser (that's what I did) to skip the forest walk and start the rest of the hike from there (which still takes about three hours, but it's a pretty straightforward hike). Along the way, you'll find plenty of beautiful spots for photos and nice places to stop for lunch. Plus, there are many other trails and side adventures if you're up for some exploring - the signs make it easy to find your way. This route can get quite crowded since it's easily accessible, and I think there's another cable car that can take you even closer to the top. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/italy/south-tyrol/col-raiser-seceda-forcella-pana-rifugio-firenze?u=i&sh=uvmy9w 8. Lago di Carezza Take a quick and easy hike around a gorgeous mountain lake. Just 0.8 miles, so it's super chill and totally worth it. Perfect if you're looking for a laid-back day or have some extra time to kill. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/italy/south-tyrol/lago-di-carezza?u=i&sh=uvmy9w If you want to include Lago di mezzo you can extend this to a 2.5 mile hike to take in both beautiful lakes. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/italy/south-tyrol/largo-di-carezza-lago-di-mezzo?u=i&sh=uvmy9w 9. Adolf Munkel Trail If you're up for an epic day hike, this one's a winner. You'll stroll through forests and alpine meadows, taking in the epic views of the Odle/Geizler peaks. It's a pretty easy trek, but the scenery is like something straight out of a movie. If you time it just right, catching the sunset here is magic – those peaks turn golden! Trust me, it's breath-taking enough during the day, but a sunset here is a must-do for me when I come back. Top tip: go anti-clockwise for the best views of the peaks. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/italy/south-tyrol/via-delle-odle-zanser-alm-rifugio-delle-odle-malga-dusler?u=i&sh=uvmy9w 10. Alpe di Siusi Check out the biggest alpine meadow in Europe. This 4-mile easy hike offers amazing views of the meadow. It's a simple walk where you can chill and enjoy the scenery. Great for a family stroll or a laid-back day of hiking. Keep an eye out for the adorable cows. I recommend bringing a picnic to relax and take in the views, or grab a snack at one of the nearby rifugios. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/italy/south-tyrol/giro-per-famiglie-alpe-di-siusi-val-gardena?u=i&sh=uvmy9w 11. Cinque Torri loop Also known as the five pillars, this 7.1 mile loop near Cortina offers breath-taking views and a chance to immerse yourself in Italy's history. Along the way, you can venture off the path briefly to explore bunkers and trenches dating back to WW1. It is also worth taking the paths to Rifugio Averau and Rifugio Nuvolau for some refreshments and unique views. I am desperate to get back and do this one for sunrise. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/italy/veneto/anello-cinque-torri-nuvolau-via-baita-bai-de-dones?u=i&sh=uvmy9w It is also possible to get the ski lift for around €18 https://www.alltrails.com/trail/italy/veneto/cinque-torri-rifugio-averau-nuvolau?u=i&sh=uvmy9w Additional Places to visit / things to do Stay overnight in an Alpine Hut On our short trip we stayed in Rifugio Sandro Pertini, Rifugio Forcella Del Pordoi (near Piz Boe) and Rifugio Viel Del Pan. But there are lots of options to choose from as you will see these mountain huts scattered all across the Dolomites. There is something really special about waking up in the mountains and we were lucky enough to see a cloud inversion one morning making it even more amazing. The accommodation must be booked well in advance, and they often close during the off-season. Private dorms can be requested for an additional cost; if they are fully booked or you prefer not to, then you will be in a shared dorm. It is essential to bring a sleeping bag or liner, as the bedding may not be washed as frequently as in hotels. Stays typically include breakfast and dinner on a half board basis. I'm such a fussy eater so I was a bit nervous about the food, but the meals provided were surprisingly good, considering the remote location with limited resources. The huts offered fantastic dinners such as ribs, stews, pesto pasta, dumplings, and strudel. You also have the option to buy cakes and snacks or to eat there during the day when they are open to the public. Sassolungo Coffin Lift from Passo Sella, Val Gardena This unique chair lift is made for only two people (although usually taken solo), has no seats, is shaped like a coffin and will not wait for anyone to get on it - you basically take a run and get shoved on. So if you're scared of heights, small spaces or being trapped in a coffin I'd maybe sit this one out, but if you can brave it you will be rewarded with incredible views and a thrill-seeking ride up the mountain Sound like fun? Then try it out for yourself. Book into a spa for some relaxation We booked into Croce Bianca Leisure & Spa in Canazei and got an incredible deal (like £70 but we did book last minute). For this we were treated to mountain views, full spa access, the best buffet breakfast I've ever had and a comfy night's sleep. This is one of the many spas in the Dolomites and after several days spent hiking and roughing it in the mountains it was 100% worth it. https://www.hotelcrocebianca.com/en/ View my experience here Food Glorious Food There are lots of incredible places to eat in the dolomites but I can't not mention Medal in Gardena. The interior was incredible (I felt a bit underdressed at first in my hiking gear but honestly there was a huge mix of people). This was possibly one of the best places I've eaten, they do pizzas, steaks and even sushi on Thursdays. https://www.gardenahotels.com/en/restaurants/medel/ Val del Mis & Lago del Mis This is located in Belluno national park and if you are driving from Venice to the Dolomites and have time it's worth stopping off or even spending the night if you have a van. You will be treated to waterfalls, lakes, rock pools and can even go for a swim in the lake. There are loads of hiking trails to explore and various cafes. I could have easily spent the full day here. https://maps.app.goo.gl/xdDYdmN29Hn57FeB6 Via Ferattas The Dolomites offer an abundance of Via Ferrata routes, providing an option for every adventurer. From complete beginners to expert climbers conquering vertical cliff faces, there is a route suited for every skill level. The Via Ferrata 365 website is basically the via ferrata bible - https://www.ferrate365.it/en/ . If you prefer not to carry your own gear during your journey, worry not - equipment can be easily rented from sports stores in all the nearest towns. Here are some that I have done or are on my hit list. Via Feratta Ivano Dibona Via Feratta Monte Paterno Via Feratta Oskar Schuster Via Feratta Lipella to Tofano di Rozes I hope that on reading this you have managed to take some inspiration for your own trip. If you have any comments, questions, general feedback or if this has helped you in any way then don't be afraid to leave a comment. This is my first attempt at a travel blog so any support is appreciated.

A van trip to explore the best of Ireland has always been on my to do list, so after a family bereavement I thought f*ck it, and I hopped on the ferry to see just what the Emerald Isle had in store. I took the ferry from Cairnryan to Belfast, the return ferry ticket for one passenger and a campervan cost approximately £300 and the journey lasted just over 2 hours. Alternatively you can take the Ferry to Larne which is around 30 minutes north of Belfast. This blog covers my experiences on this trip. My goal was to explore the most picturesque and stunning locations while bypassing the cities, as I had visited them previously. However, you can customize your itinerary according to your preferences. I combined parts of the Causeway coastal route with the Wild Atlantic Way over the space of a week in November. The Causeway Coastal Route spans 115 miles along the coastline of Northern Ireland with a number of interesting stops along the way - you could easily do this over a few days taking in many of the different sights and activities. On the other hand, the Wild Atlantic Way is an extensive route over 1500 miles with many of the main stopping points being really far away from each other (sometimes requiring a two hour drive). I made it down as far as Clifden in County Galway before making the lengthy return journey back to get the ferry. The dark winter nights meant I had limited daylight hours to see and do things which I tried to make the most of instead of driving all day. Consequently, I felt that the Wild Atlantic Way was a bit too much driving for me at this time but I will definitely be back to pick up where I left off maybe next summer when the days are longer. It is also worth mentioning that I found places to sleep for the night in the campervan by using Park for night. This gives you a selection of paid campsites and free park up spots but if you use one of these then don't be a meathead - be respectful, leave no trace and take your rubbish with you!!! My chosen stopping points: The Causeway Coast & Northern Ireland Carrickfergus Castle - This medieval castle was my first stop on the route after getting off the Ferry. I didn't go in but I walked around the area to stretch my legs and admired the view from outside. The entry fee is £6 to explore the castle from inside. Blackhead Lighthouse - Built in 1902 you can take a short hike up to this historical landmark. The hike is just under 3 miles (4km), around an hour and it takes you on a scenic walk along the coast, past some caves and up 100 steps to reach the lighthouse. From here you have stunning views across the Irish sea. The Gobbins Cliff Trail  - a fun day out along the cliffs of the coast. The Gobbins path was originally opened in 1902 and then restored in 2015, you can still see traces of the original cliff path and hear all about how it was constructed. The trail takes you through a series of tunnels, bridges, and pathways that have been carefully carved into the rock, providing an exciting experience for anyone. The tubular bridge and the cave that you go through were probably my highlights of the trail. In the summer the cliffs are full of birds including puffins, I could still spot their nests although the birds are no longer around. We were lucky enough to spot a friendly seal popping his head up from the water. The cost of the excursion was £21 for adults, helmets are provided as a necessity in case of banging your head or falling rocks and you must wear hiking boots and if you don't have any with you then don't worry - you can rent them for a fiver (£5). The route can be quite slippy and there's a steep hill to climb on the way back to the van. The Black Arch - This one isn't so much of a stop but instead the beginning of a scenic drive along the Antrim coast. A lot of people choose to pull in at a layby to stop to take photos of the iconic arch (just don't stand on the road). Torr Head Drive & View Point - a scenic detour and completely worth it. If you make the short steep incline to the viewing point you will have incredible views. This is the closest point to Scotland in Northern Ireland and they even say you can see over to Mull of Kintyre on a clear and bright day (disclaimer - it was neither clear or sunny when I went but the views were incredible nonetheless.) There are ruins here of an old lookout station, you can use the old rusty ladder to climb up to the rooftop for better views although the inside of the building is pretty wrecked and has graffiti and couple of beer bottles (think Banksy gone rogue.) The road to get there is long and windy, and make sure you are ok with steep inclines and heights. I came face to face with a bin lorry taking up all the road & had to squeeze past in a campervan which was a struggle. Kinbane Castle - my favourite stop on the route so far, this is one you should definitely make time to visit. When you start walking down the steps and the view of the castle comes into view, I was completely blown away by it's beauty. The ruins are perched on a cliff edge overlooking the Atlantic ocean and the views are breath-taking. You can explore the ruins and even hike up to the furthest point of the cliff edge (just be careful in poor weather as it is pretty narrow.) There are 140 steep steps down (and a bit of stinker on the lungs on the way back up) but it is completely worth it. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge - another favourite of mine, this made me grin from ear to ear from the exhilaration and the sheer beauty of the views around me. If you want to cross the bridge it will cost you £15.50 for an adult ticket, which is a bit costly but I really do think it is worth it. You will then embark on a short walk along a coastal path with views to die for for around 20 minutes before reaching the bridge. You may need to queue for a short while as only a limited amount of people are allowed on the bridge at any one time. The crossing is 30 metres above the rocks and crashing waves below and 20 metres in length to get to the other side and to the island that was once a hotspot for salmon fishing. I won't lie I could absolutely not look down on the way over and you can feel the bridge moving but on the way back I put my brave pants on and looked over the side and I am so glad I did. Isn't is crazy to think that back in the day the fishermen would cross an early version of this bridge with only one rope for a single handrail and carrying all of their equipment and let me tell you this bridge swings in the wind!! So I can only imagine what it was like back then. The Giants Causeway - aargh I hate saying this but truthfully I was really underwhelmed on my visit. Maybe I don't know what I was expecting but in my head I had kind of thought it would be huge towering basalt columns, something a bit like Fingal's Cave on Staffa but it's really tiny. Don't get me wrong the formations of the stacked rocks are cool and I loved watching the waves crashing against the rocks but I just thought it would be more. My highlights were definitely walking up to the giants organ, the amphitheatre viewpoint and if you can hike the steep path up to the cliff top the views are incredible. Please don't let me opinion stop you from going to see for yourself. I didn't actually pay for the causeway as it isn't required to access it, it only costs £10 to park in the lower car park near the railway and is only a short walk up from there. I didn't use the café on site or the visitor centre so I can't comment on these but you have the option to access these for an additional charge. Dunluce Castle - a quick pitstop here as the sun was setting to admire the castle ruins on the clifftop. The castle was closed for the day when I was passing however during opening hours it is £6 entry to the ruins and I absolutely would have done this if I had got there earlier. Portstewart Strand - a beautiful long beach with lots of swimmers and dog walkers. I stayed near here so visited for my morning walk and ended up chatting to a lovely bunch of swimmers and having an impromptu jump in the sea with them which was thrilling as the waves are pretty big and it was rather cold. On a nice summers day I imagine this beach would be incredibly busy and I could see why as it is gorgeous. Parking is literally on the golden sands of the beach. This was my final stop on The Causeway Coast before continuing on to The Wild Atlantic Way but the following two are on neither of the coastal trails but worth the drive from here or Derry (about an hour and 40 minutes.) These can also be squeezed in on the West Atlantic way as they are only a short detour from Leitrim and just across the border in Northern Ireland. Marble Arch Caves Cuilcagh Boardwalk - a popular boardwalk trail in County Fermanagh right next to the border into ROI. The walk is 6.8 miles and will take around 3 - 4 hours to walk along the wooden pathway to Cuilcagh mountain. You can reach the summit of the mountain by taking the "Stairway to Heaven", a steep staircase all the way to the top. The boardwalk is suitable for anyone who loves an outdoors adventure. Marble Arch Caves - situated five minutes away from the Cuilcagh boardwalk this exciting tour takes you down into the 11km long cave. It's the perfect thing to do on a rainy day and at a cost of only £15 it was definitely worth it, also it wasn't busy at all when I went so I actually ended up with a private tour for just me. The guides are really knowledgeable and it is interesting to see all the formations in the cave including the 10,000 year old stalactites and insect fossils. If you are lucky and the weather is on your side you will get to take the underground boat tour through the caves but alas I was not lucky - maybe next time. The Wild Atlantic Way I drove through Derry into County Donegal to begin my tour of the west coast. Note that you can get the Lough ferry from Magilligan point on the causeway route but it stops for the winter season. County Donegal Malin Head - the most northern point in mainland Ireland, you can see Scotland on a good day. There are several different trails with stunning views of the rugged coastlines & cliff edges. I recommend taking the coastal walk along to the Hell Hole where you can look down into a large crevasse between the cliffs where you can listen to the water roar and the waves crash. Beside the car park is an old communication station that was imperative in connecting America & Europe during the wars. If you coming from The Causeway Coast this is a bit of a detour but worth it if you aren't tight for time. Cara Na Mara (Bunbeg Wreck) - a shipwreck on the beach also known as Bad Eddie. The beach was a welcomed leg stretch after the two hour drive from Malin Head. The ship was beached by a local fisherman named Eddie during the 1970s so he could carry out repairs and has remained there ever since. Bad Eddie now has the addition of some lovely fairy lights & a few iron hearts that I'm not sure were there during its maiden Voyage Malin Beg Beach - I stopped over here to park up to spend the night. The views from the car park down to the silver strand beach are a stunning sight. When I woke up in the morning I took a stroll down the 174 steps (be prepared for this on the way back up) to stroll along the beach and I had it all to myself. It's the perfect spot for a little dip. After speaking to some locals on my trip they informed me that it is sometimes referred to as the secret beach as nobody ever seems to go so if you are looking for something a little out the way but worth the reward then this is the place. Sliabh Liag - the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Wow - this place is seriously exceptional. You can pay to park in the little car park at the bottom of the trail and take the short walk up to the viewing point to stare in awe at the sight of the cliffs!! You can chill here and it has various refreshment vans including a fabulous coffee shop and the famous lobster rolls (be there quick as once they are done for the day they are done.) You can also hike up to the top of the cliffs which will take around 3-4 hours, there is a path but it is also advisable downloading the route. I used this route on Alltrails and don't forget you can get 30% off Alltrails+ here. County Leitrim Glencar Waterfall - a really short walk to a pretty epic waterfall. There is a big car park here with toilets and an ice cream van. On a good day I imagine the views over the Glencar lough would be amazing. The waterfall is only a 5 minute walk from the car and completely worth it - it was so much bigger than I expected. County Mayo Downpatrick Head - oh I really loved this. A short walk from the car park and you are spoilt for choice. You can go and visit the blowhole and then continue on to see Dun Briste, the incredible 350 million years old 50 metre tall sea stack. The cliffs are so high and there are no railings or anything so it can be a bit jittery as you walk near the edge. This is also where the red bull cliff diving took place a few years ago which is a completely mental thought when you see the sheer height of the cliffs. County Galway I drove here via the West Port & Clifden route which took a bit of extra time but the views were incredible especially on the second part of the drive when the mountain skyline starts to come into view. Sky Road - a scenic driving loop 16km long near Connemara National Park. If you have some spare time and fancy a wee drive then I would suggest this but if not then you're not missing out on too much by giving it a miss. Connemara National Park - 🤩 chefs kiss! I absolutely loved it here! I parked at the visitor centre hiked to the top of Diamond Hill which is the most popular hill in the park, this is a 4.4 mile loop that took just under two hours and that was stopping for loads of photos. The views of the mountains from the top are unreal. Definitely worth it. And that is where my solo Ireland road trip comes to an end. I'd had enough of driving by this point but I'm definitely not finished exploring and I hope to return next summer where I can pick up where I left off and explore the southern half of the west coast.