Stunning walks, a lovely Spa town from a luxury Spa hotel
Overview
A great weekend discovering the spectacular Peak District from the pretty Spa town of Buxton.
We will design a walking programme to include a variety of scenery to make the most of what this area has to offer. They will be of moderate standard as there will be a few gradients which give this area its stunning scenery, but as usual we will take our time.
There is also plenty to do for non walkers or if you want to mix and match walking and touristy stuff. Buxton itself has the Pavilion gardens (23 acres of restored pleasure gardens), The Opera House and Dome, Shops in the spring gardens and market place, and of course an array of cafes and pubs. Further afield you will find Chatsworth House and the Haddon Hall and an abundance of pretty villages.
Accommodation There are many hotels in Buxton and the surrounding area; from budget to more upmarket. We can source the one for your needs and budget.
The Detail
Variations:
A Sample two day walking programme
Day one is likely to be this classic figure of eight ramble from Monsall Head. The view from Monsal Head has to be one of the best in this part of the Peak District. The morning walk of around 6 miles, will go down into the valley to admire the impressive viaduct and then on to the Monsal Trail (a route that follows the old railway from Matlock to Buxton). Then back down to the river following it through Millers Dale as we wind our way through this beautiful gorge. The return uses the Monsal trail again where we have the option of either going through the tunnels (if they are still open) or a more spectacular route up and over the hills.
The 5 mile afternoon walk uses another part of the Monsall Trail as we head towards Bakewell, passing the old station by Thornbridge Hall. The return sees us going through typical Peak District dry stone wall countryside and the two lovely villages of Great and Little Longstone.
Day two will either be around Chee Dale and Chee Tor, another part of the Monsal Trail but one that follows a lovely tree lined riverside path along the river Wye. Another option is the beautiful Lathkill Dale; we follow the River Lathkill through several weirs and waterfalls as it disappears and becomes a rocky path. Or we could venture into the Goyt Valley and its hills and reservoirs. Either way the walk will be around 6 to 7 miles.
