Danish Shelter Walk     Photos here....

12 of the most adventurous of Wellingborough Ramblers set out from Pear Tree Farm in Aldwincle for a 21 mile walk and overnight stay in the Danish Shelters situated within Fermyn Woods Brigstock.

The weather was beautiful as we walked the first 11 miles to evening dinner at The Green Dragon in Brigstock. After gathering provisions for breakfast at the shop we continued on to the shelters in the woods. We lit an open fire and had a very pleasant evening chatting, eating and a little light alcoholic beverage  (some more light than others )!

An early morning start saw a few eager beavers lighting the fire for breakfast. After breakfast, ablutions, and gathering our rucksacks together we walked the final 8 miles back to Aldwincle for a welcome drink and lunch. The only disappointment being that the pub at Islip had changed opening hours so  we were not able to get coffee or a pint.

Thank you to everyone who rose to the challenge. We couldn't have asked for better weather and I think everyone would agree that we all had a fantastic time.

LESVOS      Photos here....

Early in May, 32 Ramblers gave up a nights sleep to travel down to Gatwick to catch a plane to Lesbos, which is the most easterly of the Greek islands, situated just five miles from the coast of their old enemies the Turks.

Landing at the small airport of Mytiline  around midday the group soon found the nearest taverna to await the second leader who was flying in from Manchester.  These middle of the day taverna visits were to become a feature of the holiday and proved to be a welcome break or a refreshing finish for all of the walks.

The hotel in the north of the island was a series of lodges built up the hillside, each consisting of a spacious room with a balcony overlooking the sea and the Turkish coast. Some of the best views were at the top but it meant a good climb each time one had to return to the room. A lack of hot water and droopy shower heads were the only small problems and were soon overcome.

The walks, all within a reasonable distance of the hotel, were either along the beautiful coast or up in the hills where ancient olive groves and old monasteries where discovered and spring flowers were still in bloom. Swallow tail butterflies, tortoises and terrapins were seen and a short toed eagle was probably the highlight, especially among the twitchers.

 The temperature climbed up into the high 20s and on those days when there was little breeze it became a little too warm for some.

Most late afternoons were spent taking a siesta or lazing around the pool before cocktails on the terrace around seven. This was followed by dinner in the dining room, where the buffet was plentiful, varied and enjoyed by all.

Three evenings were spent in the nearby harbour town of Molyvos where the various local brews and entertainment were sampled. Two were spent doing quizzes and it said that those with the greater knowledge did not necessarily win!   One very enjoyable evening was a sing-along led by our own musician Neil. The Greek evening was a little disappointing as the music was loud and the dancers more concerned with there impending exams than getting dressed up for the occasion.

Overall the holiday proved to be huge success with good weather, good food and best of all, good company.