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River Wye: Hike, Bike & Kayak (Source to Sea)

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Fully Guided Small Group Short Break
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 Trip Length
5 Days
 Trip Starts
Gloucester
 Trip Finishes
Gloucester
5 Day River Wye: Hike, Bike & Kayak (Source to Sea) Itinerary (Intrepid)
Countries Explored: England
Trip Style
Original
Budget
Affordable
Max. Group Size
12
Pace
Moderate
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
BEXW

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Intrepid's 5 Day River Wye: Hike, Bike & Kayak (Source to Sea). Why should you visit the River Wye? We’re glad you asked! Crossing from Wales into England and carving out much of the border on its way, the River Wye is undoubtedly one of the UK’s best examples of unspoiled natural beauty and classic British scenery – from rolling green hills and spectacular valleys to delightful little villages dotted with cosy pubs. In five days, you’ll uncover all the best bits of this beautiful corner of the country on foot, bicycle and canoe, with a local leader on...read more hand to show you the ropes. Venture from the river’s source in the Welsh Mountains and follow it on a thrilling adventure down to Ross-on-Wye.

Itinerary

The famous River Wye maps out much of the border between Wales and England, and its untouched landscapes really are a sight to behold. Your exploration of this great river begins in Gloucester, where you’ll meet your local leader and the rest of your group at 11am. From here it’s a transfer to the top of the Wye Valley (approximately 2 hours) – you’ll soon see why this has been named an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Things kick into gear with a bike ride around the secluded Elan Valley – this is the wild west of the UK – no shops, starbucks or costa coffee here, just stunning natural wonders at every turn. Enjoy a flat ride around an 18th-century reservoir and take it all in. Retire to your accommodation for the evening, a beautiful lodge set in a Victorian era building that retains much of its traditional feel.

Kick off the day with a hike to the source of the River Wye, hidden away high up in the Welsh Mountains. While you’re at it, you may also like to hunt out the source of the River Severn, as it’s just a mile away. After you’ve found the source, it’s time to hop back on your bike and follow the very first stretch of the River Wye all the way back down to the Elan Valley. This journey is all downhill, so it’s sure to be a thrilling ride! Enjoy an evening at leisure back at your lodge (B)

Today you’ll hit the water for a canoeing and kayaking adventure! Transfer to the village of Glasbury where you’ll meet your canoeing instructors for a safety demonstration, then head off in your one or two-person canoe or kayak – the choice is yours. Paddle on down past peaceful countryside and arrive at the market town of Hay-on-Wye. If you forgot to pack a good book for your downtime, worry not! With over twenty independent bookshops, this charming little place is the National Book Town of Wales. Stop for a spot of lunch and perhaps one of Hay’s excellent coffees, then return to the water and continue down to Whitney Bridge, where you will disembark and spend the evening. Your accommodation tonight will be one to remember, as you’ll sleep on the side of the river in comfortable and spacious wooden pods, totally immersed in your natural surroundings – this is glamping at its best! (B)

Start your day in the village of Preston on Wye and set your wheels in motion for a bike ride to Goodrich Castle. This ancient medieval castle is so well-preserved it’s not hard to imagine what life here must have looked like, and its serene setting in the countryside above the River Wye is up there with the best of them. Walk up to the Symonds Yat Rock where you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with unbeatable views of the River Wye and the surrounding landscape. Not only home to the site of an ancient fort build over 2500 years ago, the area is also one of the best spots in the country to view peregrine falcons, so be sure to look up as well as down! Tonight will be spent in the lovely town of Ross-on-Wye – ask your leader why they claim to be the birthplace of British tourism. (B)

Just like the River Wye, your journey must come to an end. Today you will transfer back to Gloucester where your adventure will wrap up, and say your goodbyes to your newfound friends. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Follow the River Wye from its source high in the Welsh Mountains all the way to Ross-on-Wye on foot, bicycle and canoe, allowing you to see the scenery from multiple perspectives.
  • Explore the little-known yet absolutely beautiful Elan Valley on bicycles, then spend two nights in a remote family-run lodge, set in a gorgeous Victorian era building.
  • Hit the water in a canoe or kayak and paddle down from Glasbury to Whitney Bridge, stopping off for lunch in the charming town of Hay-on-Wye, famed for its celebration of books.
  • Pull up your kayaks on the side of the river and arrive at your accommodation – a spectacular glamping experience in permanent pods totally immersed in nature.
  • Hike and bike up to Symonds Yat Rock and be rewarded with unbeatable views of the River Wye and its surrounds, plus the chance to spot peregrine falcons soaring overhead.

  • Hotel (3 nights)
  • Glamping pods (1 nights)

  • 4 Breakfasts included

  • Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included

Brochure

Cycling Adventures

Intrepid Cycling Adventures (2022-24)

Gain a different perspective and deeper understanding of the country you’re travelling in as your journey unfolds on the open road, surrounded by sounds, smells, changing scenery and like-minded riders. There’s no racing, no medals and no pressure – or reason – to get anywhere in a hurry. Enjoy the ride, soak everything up, and stop to take photos and...more interact with locals whenever you feel like it.

Prices & Dates

There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Intrepid. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Intrepid. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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