I have found that my passion for the countryside just grows and grows and that the peaks and dales offer such great companionship whether you are with friends or just out with the dogs, the scenery accompanies you wherever you go. The ever-changing landscape has inspired a genre of people over the passing millennia to walk a wide-ranging variety of tracks and trails through moorland or flower strewn meadows, or past babbling brooks or vast reservoirs of water, taking in an abundant palette of colour for the eyes with each passing season.
One of the most popular trails is the Monsal Trail which is around 8.5 miles long and was once part of the railway line that linked Manchester to London. The flat route saunters from the edge of Bakewell to the edge of Buxton and is a snapshot of what the Peak District has to offer. The 19th century poet Eliza Cook wrote:
‘And Monsal, thou mine of Arcadian treasure,
Need we seek for Greek Islands and spice-laden gales,
While the Temple like thee, of enchantment and pleasure,
May be found in our own native Derbyshire Dales.
It’s so important to buy and wear the right clothing for all your country adventures. That’s why, I have put together a list of summer must haves next time you’re going on a summer holiday in the country.
Summer Walking Shoes for Ladies
Sturdy shoes are always needed when out on a ramble and as we are now in summer, I have tried out a couple of the ones we stock and to be quite honest I love two of them a lot!
The Scarpa Women’s Terra GTX although these are not my favourite looking boots, they are oh so comfortable! Breathable and waterproof as soon as you put them on it's as if you have never not worn them.
With the latest Gore-Tex Performance Comfort breathable waterproof membrane concealed behind the full grain leather upper, these boots do not only allow water not to get in but also allow any build up of excess moisture inside the boot to get out. Foam cushioning keeps your ankles comfortable, and the internal shape of the boot offers space for your feet not to feel tightly squished. A great entry level boot.
My other favourite is the Ariat Women’s Skyline Mid Waterproof Boot. I like the look of this boot and wear it when I am taking the dogs out. A waterproof boot it needs no breaking in. The full grain leather offers warmth and comfort for your feet whilst the lacing system makes you feel like the boot is attached to your foot rather than being an added extra on your feet. Although a quite expensive initial out lay these boots will pay you back tenfold.
Walking Shorts for Women In the Warmer Months
Summer is shorts weather and one of my favourite pairs of shorts are the Deerhunter Lady Anne. With the added Teflon Shield+ coating these shorts are everything you need, lightweight, waterproof, durable and breathable. The thigh pocket and back pocket have zip closures which will keep your money and keys safe. These are really comfortable as they have elasticated panels which give you more freedom of movement and versatility no matter what you are doing.
Women’s Long Sleeve Top Perfect for Walking and Relaxing
Now you may think that my next item is going to be too warm for summer, the Craghoppers NosiLife Erin Ladies long sleeved top, but it is only 160g. It is easy to wash, incorporates a moisture wicking ability which absorbs moisture from your skin keeping you cool.
It is also made from the NOSILIFE fabric which is an anti-insect treatment that is proven to reduce bites by up to 90% from midges, mites and even mosquitos. The NosiLife treatment also acts as a biocide and works as an anti-bacterial agent keeping bacteria at bay and decreasing odour build up. So, on a nice stroll home along the canal footpath after supper in the local area you won’t have any insects for your evening meal!
Craghoppers Jumpsuit for Country Walks
Another item from Craghoppers that I am enjoying wearing for evenings out in the local area is the Craghoppers NosiLife Rania Jumpsuit. Just like the Erin, it is made with the same tech and so the midges, etc stay away. I find it really comfortable and easy to wear and I love the colour of the Woodland Green.
Women’s Summer Waterproof Coat
My final choice is the Didrikson Avon Waterproof Jacket. This fully wind and waterproof rain jacket is great if you get caught in a summer downpour. I’ve gone for the Chilli red as I love this vibrant colour and it looks great with a white t-shirt, jeans and pumps for a casual but up to the minute look that can take you to town as easily as the countryside.
The two front pockets are large enough to carry your essentials and the hood is a perfect size. With the Didrikson heritage you know that you are getting the added breathability as standard, so you don’t have that build up of condensation as the temperatures rise and the storm clouds pass. A fantastic little jacket.
So, there you have it guys my staycation must haves. Until the next time enjoy your holidays.
