THE DALES HIGH WAY

Saltaire to Appleby
- 91 miles

Last year we finally managed to walk the Dales Way, and were bowled over walking in such fantastic scenery. So much so that on discovering a second long distance walk in the Dales, we had no hesitation in returning this year.

As the name suggests, The Dales High Way follows a more lofty route. Whereas the Dales Way stuck very much to river valleys with occasional sorties onto the moors, The Dales High Way reverses that trend, spending much of the time on higher ground. As a consequence, the views are generally more expansive, and there is a feeling of being out in the great outdoors exposed to the elements rather than sheltered in the valleys.

Along The Way is the opportunity to 'top out' on two of the Three Peaks, marvel at truly spectacular limestone features and still manage to take in a couple of beautiful, tranquil riverside paths. There is a ridge walk that is truly breathtaking (at least that's what the guidebook told us. But more of that later...), flora and fauna galore, and ancient and more recent history abound. Add to that a mix of splendid B&Bs, food to satisfy any gastronome and local beers to outshine ambrosian nectar, and you have a winner in every sense of the word.

Put simply, this is the best walk we have done. Stunning from start to finish with each day providing a variety of landscape and scenery.

If you intend to walk just one long distance path in your lifetime, make it this one ....

Carolyn & Steve

xx