Hills and thrills in test of peak performance

SUNDAY DRIVER Bakewell tarts and incredible views await as David Williams takes a 100-mile trip through the splendour of the Peak District in a posh Porsche

Most regions have them; notorious routes where once drivers and motorcyclists perhaps with more confidence than ability flocked to flaunt their “skills”. It’s all very different today and the once-infamous Snake Pass in the Peak District – relentlessly tamed over the years by speed limits, trafficcalming and common sense after a spate of accidents – is no exception.

There’s still a visceral thrill to be had, however as, carefully observing a blizzard of 50mph roundels and signs urging caution, we leave Glossop heading south-east and, after a thrilling climb offering stupendous, far-reaching moorland views, descend this twisting, undulating road otherwise known as the A57, with its glimpses of wild dale, sparkling reservoir – and a sheer vertical drop.

Our 434bhp Porsche Cayenne S is more than a match for the bends – some tightening alarmingly if you don’t pay attention – with its growly 2.9-litre V6 petrol engine, powerful brakes (with huge calipers showing through the optional 21-inch wheels, eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox and firm suspension.

Snake Pass is just one fleeting section of this route, which encompasses some of the Peak District’s finest scenery, on a 100-mile romp that reveals fetching towns and villages, surging rivers, a magnificent stately home, the birthplace of the Bakewell tart and spectacular gorges.

There’s no better place to start than picturesque Ashbourne to the south, with its higgledy-piggledy streets and the fast access it affords, via narrow country roads snaking through Mapleton, to one of the district’s prettiest features, Ilam Park with its riverside walks and long views towards the National Nature Reserve of Dovedale.

For a close-up of Dovedale, follow signs to Milldale before striking north on the faster A515 to the comely spa town of Buxton (but not so fast as to miss eerie Arbor Low Stone Circle on your right, safe in the knowledge that, although it is haunted, the evil spirits venture out only after nightfall).

There’s a warm embrace at Buxton with its grand, honey-coloured Georgian buildings, manicured parks and imposing opera house. Never warmer than when, on a cold day, you run your hands under the 82F (28C) thermal waters gushing from St Ann’s Well in The Crescent. They say it’s drinkable, too.

Put your faith in your map-reading

Sunday 10 February 2019