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Mickledore Travel

Mickledore Travel Traveller Reviews

Reviews of Mickledore Travel

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West Highland Way by BillK, 13 Jun 2019
Holiday Rating:

Exhilarating walk in one of the world's great routes.

We opted to do the West Highland Way as our third long distance walk. We thought that we needed to build up to this one as people in their late sixties and this one is described as moderate to difficult. The strategy must have worked because we coped well with the demands of the walk despite the poor weather for the time of year. It is a truly spectacular route and the rainy weather did not detract from our enjoyment of the route. I would advise ...

We opted to do the West Highland Way as our third long distance walk. We thought that we needed to build up to this one as people in their late sixties and this one is described as moderate to difficult. The strategy must have worked because we coped well with the demands of the walk despite the poor weather for the time of year. It is a truly spectacular route and the rainy weather did not detract from our enjoyment of the route. I would advise anyone doing it however, to make sure they have good quality water proof clothing and water proof walking boots. On our previous walking holidays, one in a similar part of the Scottish Highlands and the other in the North of England, the waterproof garments were literally baggage, as we basked in temperatures from the low to high 20s at a very similar time of year. This year was very different. Another decision you will need to make is the length of time you are going to take over the walk. Our tour company offered the choice of of 6,7,8 or 9 days. We chose a fairly conservative 8 days averaging 12 miles a day. The walk begins at Milngavie on the north western outskirts of Glasgow. Do get you "passport" at the outdoor shop close to the start of the trail. You can then opt to have it stamped at hotels, inns and guest houses en route. We started on 29 May and after a very dry month the first real rain arrived in the area with us on the Wednesday evening before we started. Thursday dawned with the rain persisting but by the time we set off from the comfortable Milngavie Premier Inn it was little more than nuisance drizzle and as we progressed through Allander Park northwards, even this subsided. It never got bright but it was a pleasant and relatively easy walk towards the first nights stop in the village of Drymen and the more challenging terrain ahead. There were plenty of potential picnic spots for a fairer day but we decided to take advantage of the pleasant cafe at the Oakwood Garden Centre cafe for lunch on Day One. About an hour from Drymen the heavens opened and we did get properly wet. Our B&B in Drymen was comfortable and we had a decent dinner in the Clachan Inn. We had identified other WHW walkers back in Milngavie and caught up with some of those in Drymen. It is a feature of this walk that you are likely to come across walkers from all over the world. In our case we shared parts of the trail with walkers from Canada, Australia, The Netherlands, Germany, France and Italy. There was a real sense of camaraderie. It would take me a long time to describe every day in detail so I will try and pick out highlights. Quite early in Day 2 the first real ascent begins up Conic Hill. On a good day it affords a magnificent view over the southern end of Loch Lomond and the surrounding countryside. We did see it on a good day 2 years ago but the views were limited by the dark rain clouds and mist on day 2. Despite this it was still a very pretty descent into the attractive loch shore village of Balamaha. Our second night was at the Rowardennan Hotel. The walk from Balmaha to Rowardennan and indeed the following morning is through undulating forest trails, with some steep climbs and views of this most scenic of lochs. The Inversnaid Hotel provides a haven for Lunch on Day 3, even offering an area inside for walkers to take their packed lunches - very impressive. The journey along the eastern shore of the loch continues but the terrain changes after Inversnaid. For about 90 minutes the trail is a constant obstacle course of rocky terrain taking you up and down the hillside and across the many burns stimulated by the heavy rainfall of the last couple of days. This section of the trail places a premium on being sure footed and was the part of the trail we found most demanding. There is the reward of reaching the head of the Loch with beautiful views over the harbour of Ardlui on the western side of the loch. It was with some relief that we emerged into meadowland and the climbs now offering magnificent views of the highland landscape. It took about another 90 minutes to reach Inverarnon and our next overnight stay at Beinglas Farm lodges. Undoubtedly the most demanding day so far although it had offered stunning highland views and had been mostly dry. The Falls of Falloch looked quite magnificent early in the walk on morning 4.The scenery is now open and even on a rainy day the peaks of the Monroes, Ben More and Stop Binnein are clearly visible rising up to the west of the trail. We took the diversion of about a kilometre down into Crianlarich and had lunch in the hotel there. Another hotel which catered for walkers and provided a drying room for boots and coats. After ascending back up on to the trail a remarkable thing happened - the sun came out and the moors and mountains looked truly resplendent bathed in the light. We even allowed ourselves an ice cream at Kirkton Farm and a further hour took us to Tyndrum and our stay at the homely Glengarry Guest House. From Tyndrum the path is an old military road which runs close to the A82 and the train line from Fort William to Glasgow. It was very satisfying when travelling back on the train to see the path, which you have trodden. The proximity of the road does not detract from the impressive views of another Monroe, Being Dorain, this time to the east. The Bridge of Orchy and its hotel provided a refuge on Day 5 lunch time, with the now customary drying facilities and welcome tea and scones. Leaving the hotel we crossed the bridge over the raging River Orchy and a short afternoon over the hillside offering picturesque views of Ranoch Moor and Loch Tulla. The rain began to intensify so the Inveroran hotel was a welcome sight and our next stop. The morning rain cleared soon after we had started on Day 6 and we walked over Victoria Bridge and began our climb up the Black Mount. The beautiful scenery carries on during the climb up to just short of 450 metres. As the guide book remarks, "true highland scenery wild and desolate." The descent down to the Kingshouse Hotel is just as stunning with the magnificent pass of Glencoe becoming apparent. This was a short day for us and we arrived at the newly refurbished Kingshouse hotel at lunch time. Should we have gone for the further 10 miles on to Kinlochleven? One of the reasons for stopping at that point was that soon into the next section of the trail is the climb up the forbiddingly named "Devil's Staircase." We saved this for the morning of Day 7. Like most features with this kind of name it is not as bad as its name suggests although it is a steep climb with a number of switchbacks up to two cairns at 548 metres. Top views north to the Mamores with Ben Nevis rising behind. This section finishes with a steep descent down to Kinlochleven at sea level. Our final day was a demanding 15 miles to Fort William with an initial climb up through "The Big Pass," which I found as demanding as yesterdays climb. Draw dropping scenery the whole day ending with a steep descent into Fort William. We made doubly sure that we secured our final passport stamp in the tourist office. Even as someone who has run 23 marathons and an ultra marathon I felt a real sense of achievement. It was also rewarding to share it with others whom we had befriended along the trail. A top class experience!

Rating for tour operator:

They specialise in organising UK walking holidays and they know their business. It's the third walking holiday we have done with them and I am sure we will do another.

Mickledore Travel responded to this review on 17 Jun 2019:

Thank you for taking the time to leave such great feedback about the route. I am pleased you enjoyed your walk, with such varied scenery and stunning views it is a fabulous trail. We would be pleased to arrange a further walking adventure for you in future.
Sue

Speyside Way by Mr M E 19, 13 Jun 2019
Holiday Rating:

Walking the Speyside Way

Six of us walked the Speyside Way from Buckie to Aviemore, about 90 miles, over six days. We used Mickledore to arrange accommodation and transport of luggage from hotel to hotel. They were brilliant, as usual. The walk was varied, sometimes on disused railway track, sometime through woods and over hills. One day we took the Tomintoul Spur, a taxi to the high town and a walk back mostly downhill and across wilder country than the actual Speyside ...

Six of us walked the Speyside Way from Buckie to Aviemore, about 90 miles, over six days. We used Mickledore to arrange accommodation and transport of luggage from hotel to hotel. They were brilliant, as usual. The walk was varied, sometimes on disused railway track, sometime through woods and over hills. One day we took the Tomintoul Spur, a taxi to the high town and a walk back mostly downhill and across wilder country than the actual Speyside Way. Brilliant views along the way, points of interest and a warm welcome everywhere

Rating for tour operator:

We have used Mickledore for several years. They are a terrific outfit, based in Keswick. Communication via phone or email is apleasure and all questions are quickly answered. We would recommend them to anybody wanting a walking holiday

Mickledore Travel responded to this review on 17 Jun 2019:

Thank you for your kind comments about the customer service provided by our team. It is great that you enjoyed your holiday. We hope to welcome you back for further walking adventures in the future.
Sue

Mickledore Travel by Bob & Harmke, 13 Jun 2019
Holiday Rating:

Our wonderful Arran Coastal Way May 2019

We did the Arran Coastal Way by Mickledore Travel in May 2019 and experienced it as outstanding nature loving. Being with the warm people of Arran and enjoying the beautiful nature of the Isle we had a wonderful stay, again, in Scotland.

We did the Arran Coastal Way by Mickledore Travel in May 2019 and experienced it as outstanding nature loving. Being with the warm people of Arran and enjoying the beautiful nature of the Isle we had a wonderful stay, again, in Scotland.

Rating for tour operator:

Everything was well organized and the level of the B&B's was very good with a topper in Blackwaterfoot.

Mickledore Travel responded to this review on 17 Jun 2019:

It is great that you enjoyed your holiday. We put a lot of effort into choosing the best accommodations and it is lovely to hear that you enjoyed the ones we selected for you. Thank you for leaving us your feedback.
Sue

Great Glen Way by JSteZ , 12 Jun 2019
Holiday Rating:

Mickledore three days Great Glenn way, beautiful scenery walk, absolute recommendation

With 5 men, around 40 years old, we went to the beautiful last three days of the Great Glenn way. Accomodations were beautiful, picturesque. Very kind people, ambiance was good and the walks absolutely fantastic

With 5 men, around 40 years old, we went to the beautiful last three days of the Great Glenn way. Accomodations were beautiful, picturesque. Very kind people, ambiance was good and the walks absolutely fantastic

Rating for tour operator:

Mickledore made the reservations. First we were split over 2 accomodations at multiple locations, but when we asked to change it only the first night we had to split up. A problem with the luggage labels was handled quickly.

Mickledore Travel responded to this review on 17 Jun 2019:

Thanks for your feedback. I am happy to hear that you enjoyed your holiday and found our customer service responsive and efficient.
Sue

West Highland Way by harmj59, 4 Jun 2019
Holiday Rating:

super walking holiday (wow feeling)

our group of friends (7 in. total) walked WHW from Crianlarich to Fort William; a great experience

our group of friends (7 in. total) walked WHW from Crianlarich to Fort William; a great experience

Rating for tour operator:

all has been organized perfectly by Mickledore

Mickledore Travel responded to this review on 17 Jun 2019:

Thanks for leaving us your feedback following your walk on the Highlands section of the West Highland Way. It is great that you all enjoyed your adventure.
Sue

Cotswold Way by Nico, 3 Jun 2019
Holiday Rating:

Wonderful walk in the Cotswolds

We had a 11-day walk with Mickledore. Everything was perfectly organised. We stayed in excellent B&B’s with very friendly hosts.

We had a 11-day walk with Mickledore. Everything was perfectly organised. We stayed in excellent B&B’s with very friendly hosts.

Rating for tour operator:

Mickledore is very well-organized. Booking was very easy and any questions were promptly answered.

Mickledore Travel responded to this review on 17 Jun 2019:

We put a lot of effort into finding good accommodations and it great to hear that you found your hosts welcoming. Thanks for leaving us your feedback.
Sue

Dales Way by Frances, 30 May 2019
Holiday Rating:

Idyllic Spring ramble in Upper Wharfedale

We are two senior Aussies whose vision of a Yorkshire idyll was fulfilled by this walk through woodland and across moors. Drifts of bluebells and buttercups, pungent fragrance of wild garlic, fat lambs and green as far as the eye could see. Not to mention cosy pubs and hearty Yorkshire food.

We are two senior Aussies whose vision of a Yorkshire idyll was fulfilled by this walk through woodland and across moors. Drifts of bluebells and buttercups, pungent fragrance of wild garlic, fat lambs and green as far as the eye could see. Not to mention cosy pubs and hearty Yorkshire food.

Rating for tour operator:

Mickledore made the experience personal with individual itineraries and attention to detail to meet our requirements. They set a clear standard for accommodation and provided us with comprehensive information and maps. Communication was excellent and they were very responsive and helpful.

Mickledore Travel responded to this review on 17 Jun 2019:

It is lovely to hear that you enjoyed your walk in the Yorkshire Dales. Thanks for your kind words about the customer service of our team.
Sue

West Highland Way by Judith, 29 May 2019
Holiday Rating:

8 wonderful days on the West Highland Way

I'd been wanting to do this walk for some time and finally took the plunge. It lived up to expectations, every day brought a change of scenery and somewhere friendly and comfortable to spend the night. This was my 6th Mickledore holiday and totally lived up to the high standards which I've come to take for granted.

I'd been wanting to do this walk for some time and finally took the plunge. It lived up to expectations, every day brought a change of scenery and somewhere friendly and comfortable to spend the night. This was my 6th Mickledore holiday and totally lived up to the high standards which I've come to take for granted.

Rating for tour operator:

Mickledore provide a complete service, from accommodation to route details and all the information you are likely to need on the walk - from ATMs to pharmacies and coffee stops. As a solo walker, I feel confident that, should any problem arise, support is available.

Mickledore Travel responded to this review on 17 Jun 2019:

It is lovely to hear that your walk on the West Highland Way lived up to expectations. It is a fabulous route. Thank you for your kind words about the arrangements we made for you. We hope to welome you back for your next adventure.
Sue

Cotswold Way by Sigmasailor, 28 May 2019
Holiday Rating:

Cotswold way; our first Mickledore experience (we will be back for more)

Fantastic walk, very well organised by Mickledore. All the B&B's (+one hotel) were good to excellent. We liked to be able to walk from B&B to B&B, so much more rewarding than using shuttles some other travel agents use. Mickledore took care of our luggage too, absolutely no stress or hiccups. The information supplied (three months before the actual walk) was more than adequate.

Fantastic walk, very well organised by Mickledore. All the B&B's (+one hotel) were good to excellent. We liked to be able to walk from B&B to B&B, so much more rewarding than using shuttles some other travel agents use. Mickledore took care of our luggage too, absolutely no stress or hiccups. The information supplied (three months before the actual walk) was more than adequate.

Rating for tour operator:

Mickledore responded quickly to our questions and made the booking process easy and fun.

Mickledore Travel responded to this review on 14 Jun 2019:

It is lovely to receive such kind feedback. Thank you. I am pleased you enjoyed your walk and the arrangements that we made for you. We would be very happy to arrange another holiday for you in future.
Sue

Dales Way by Kitohiker, 28 May 2019
Holiday Rating:

Walking perfection

A perfect weeks adventure walking the Dales Way. Wonderful scenery and welcoming hospitality, all without leaving the trail.

A perfect weeks adventure walking the Dales Way. Wonderful scenery and welcoming hospitality, all without leaving the trail.

Rating for tour operator:

Professionally organised trip, and Mickledore obviously have a great working relationship with the BnB’s on route.

Mickledore Travel responded to this review on 14 Jun 2019:

Such lovely comments. Thank you. We do work hard to pick the best accommodations and hosts for our holidays. It is great to hear that you found them so welcoming.
Sue