‘I TRIED IT!’
A Sisters in the Wild Introduction to Bikepacking Weekend in the Peak District gave Rolls Royce engine fitter Alex Phipps confidence to plan her own bike trip
‘I wanted to plan my own multi-day bike adventure so I thought doing a Sisters in the Wild beginner’s weekend would be a great way to learn. I ride to socialise and get out in nature but I liked the idea of doing an adventure using my own steam. Everyone was really welcoming and friendly, a whole range of ages and fitness levels. After dinner the first night, Charlotte (founder of Sisters in the Wild) laid out the kit she uses and we all asked questions.
‘The next morning, we had a relaxed breakfast, then packed up our bikes and set off on a 40K ride through the Peak District with great views and a 500m climb. We had some rain and hail along the way, plus some chunkier gravel tracks, so arrived at the campsite feeling like we’d had a real adventure, battling through weather and hilly terrain! We gathered round the campfire and tested out cooking stoves, then drank tea into the night. Getting back on the bike the next day and feeling those aches and pains was challenging but, once we got going, I was fine.
‘We cycled past Mam Tor, then took the steep downhill back to the hostel at our own pace with everyone cheering each other in. By the end of the weekend, I felt proud of myself and more confident. My friend and I have now booked to go bikepacking in Devon for four nights. My main advice is just do it! The kit matters but jumping on your bike and getting out there enjoying yourself is the best way to learn what you need.’
For more info, visit sistersinthewild.com