Stunning Dorset countryside

As the weather closes in, you may be mulling over the idea of getting some Winter sunshine in warmer climes but don’t dismiss the endless possibilities for warming winter breaks in the UK too.

What could be better than a brisk Nordic walk followed by a warming drink by a log fire? In this issue we share our favourite Nordic walking routes on the Isle of Purbeck (the home of NWUK HQ) in Dorset, with the help of local Instructor Lynne Martin.

Lynne works part time in the NWUK offices and spends the rest of her time leading and planning walks in the spectacular scenery of the Jurassic Coast. Here are her favourite walks:-

CORFE CASTLE CIRCULAR WALK
This walk is a particular favourite because it includes spectacular ridges, ancient castles and a pub with one of the best views in the UK!

There are a couple of quite steep climbs but the views are so worth it. The pub (The Scott Arms at Kingston) is a true gem and a favourite with walkers and cyclists in Summer and Winter.

For full details click here

STUDLAND VILLAGE WALK
A little shorter but with optional loops available, this walk takes in the stunning Studland bay with it’s miles of golden beaches (where we watched a seal on our last Nordic walk) and an ancient Norman Church. Also, without sounding as if we are obsessed, there’s a nice Pub here too!

For full info on the walk click here

KIMMERIDGE BAY CIRCULAR
To be honest, the views just keep getting better and the vista across to Portland, Weymouth and the Olympic sailing waters that you get on this walk are second to none!

In Kimmeridge Village, Clavells tea Rooms are a firm favourite with local Nordic walkers and the walk includes enough climbs to justify the Cream Tea!

For more info click here

CORFE CASTLE TO SWANAGE VIA NINE BARROW DOWN
This famous route is 5.5 miles and you can either pop back on the steam railway or take a number of other walking routes back if you want to make a day of it! The route heads out of the Village and up on the downs where you can take in views of Poole Harbour and the Isle of Purbeck in it’s full glory.

For full info click here

Hillview Cottage Corfe Castle

For accommodation in the area try this website  www.corfe-castle.co.uk  maybe book this idyllic cottage which is right on the major walking routes, packed with maps and info and can be booked as a package along with a Nordic Walking course or guide.

Click here for more info.