Hikers will experience three different areas of Britain in one trip. We’ll begin on the peaceful, quiet Isle of Man, where tourists are few. A three-day stay will allow us to discover coastal walks, visit the unique village of Cregneash (filming site of “Waking Ned Devine”) and opportunities to explore ancient Viking ruins and castles. The port city of Douglas has changed little since Victorian times, and is still trodden by heavy-footed carthorses pulling trams.

From the Isle of Man we’ll travel by ferry and bus to the magical village of Grasmere in the Lake District of Northwestern England. Grasmere has a population of just less than 1000 and only a handful of roads, which meet at a central green. Years before the poet Wordsworth put down roots here, the “White Village” was looked upon as “a little unsuspected paradise.” You may wish to visit Wordsworth’s grave at St. Oswald’s, the Heaton Cooper Studio and the Gingerbread House before venturing out into the countryside. Most of Grasmere’s shops, galleries, and cafés occupy nineteenth century buildings, although the village is much older. At the rear of the churchyard stands Sara Nelson’s Gingerbread Shop. Grasmere gingerbread has been made on the premises since the mid-nineteenth century and the recipe is a closely-guarded secret. Hiking opportunities abound directly from the town, with easy access to many trails.

Our next stop will be Oban, Scotland. Oban is a wonderful coastal village with easy access to the Isles of Kerrara, Mull, and Staffa. Hiking excursions will be scheduled to each of these destinations, reached by very short ferry rides. After leaving the ferry at Craignure, we’ll hike to Torosay Castle, a formidable fortress overlooking the Sound of Mull. As the seat of the Clan MacLean, it is one of the oldest inhabited castles in Scotland. A ghost hike around the city of Oban is always an exciting choice, and seafood is abundantly available for evening meals. Of course, Oban Scotch is a draw for those who would like to taste the locally brewed specialty, and a tour of the distillery is within walking distance from the hotel.

Our final destination will be the city of Inverness, often referred to as the “capital” of the Highlands. It is a major jumping-off area for exploring the northern and western Highlands, the Moray Firth coast and, of course, Loch Ness. There is so much to see and do in this wonderful city that hikers will want to come back again and again.

REGISTRATION, DEPOSITS, & PAYMENTS
Adults of any age are welcome, providing very good physical condition. Past participants have ranged in age from 18 to 84. Adaptability and a sense of adventure are more important than cycling experience. Formal registration must be accompanied by a NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT of $200. EARLY REGISTRATION IS ADVISED! A payment schedule will be sent on receipt of your application and deposit. Fees paid will be refunded, minus deposit, upon withdrawal up to 12 weeks before departure on written notice. After that, housing and airline
cancellation charges will be assessed.