A campervan is a brilliant way to get out into the great outdoors and take advantage of all the activities on offer
Words ❚ Iain Duff
Campervanning is not only about relaxing and lazily watching the world go by. For the more active camper, a road trip is an excuse to pull on a wetsuit, hiking boots, trainers or Lycra shorts (not all at the same time, hopefully) and take advantage of some of the great activities on offer, either on site or nearby.
Heading off on holiday is an ideal opportunity for the whole family to explore the UK’s great outdoors. From cycling country trails, to taking to the water in a kayak, there is a huge range of activities you can take part in, that will keep everyone happy, whatever their age or fitness levels.
Whatever activity you choose to do, always remember to make sure you have the right equipment and that you know how to use it.
If you’re trying something completely new, follow instructions and don’t break the rules. Know your limitations and when it is time for you to call it a day, and always know what you should do in the unlikely event that something goes wrong.
But most important of all – get out and enjoy yourself!
WILD SWIMMING
Wild swimming – or outdoor swimming – is essentially a pastime enjoyed by those who don’t want to be confined to an indoor pool. Rivers, lakes, seas – even lidos – are all part of the experience and the UK is blessed with numerous places adventurous swimmers can go to get back to nature and appreciate the chlorine-free waters and picturesque scenery. It’s an amazing experience that puts you back in touch with nature and is also great for your health. You don't need to be a good swimmer to enjoy wild swimming – there are plenty of lakes and river pools where you can stay within your depth. What could be better on a sunny summer’s morning than an early morning dip before rushing back up to your ’van for bacon and eggs and a mug of tea?
WHERE TO GO
The Snowdonia National Park in north Wales is blessed with numerous beautiful wild swimming spots, both inland and on the coast.
WHERE TO STAY
NANTCOL WATERFALLS CAMPSITE Cefn Uchaf, Llanbedr, Gwynedd LL45 2PL T 01341 241209 W nantcolwaterfalls.co.uk
An award-winning site next to River Cwmnantcol and the falls, where there are three pools that are relatively shallow and safe for a plunge.
CYCLING
Whether it’s frantically pedalling along country roads with the
