Great Britain

<p>From Edinburgh across the granite plateau of the Cairngorms and the Valley of Glencoe to the Isle of Skye and back via Glasgow. The route touches Scotland's three landscape types: city, moorland, and Atlantic coast.</p><p>While distances are short, driving times are long. The A82 through Glencoe and the roads on Skye are winding, partly single-track with passing places, and busy in summer. Expect an average of just 50 km/h.</p><p>May, June, and September are the best months: long days, comparatively dry weather, and, crucially, no Midges. Between late June and August, these biting midges make still evenings on the West Coast a torment; a head net costs little and helps.</p><p>This route is suitable for motorhomes, as Scotland has extensive access rights. However, local restrictions apply to wild camping on Skye and around Loch Lomond.</p>

<p>Wales can be traversed lengthwise in ten days, from Edward I's castles on the north coast, across the Eryri mountain range and the Pembrokeshire coast, to the capital. Distances are short, but the country is mountainous and major transport routes run from east to west, not north to south. Those wishing to travel the route by train will partially pass through England.</p><p>Place names are bilingual, and since 2023, the National Parks officially bear their Welsh names: Eryri instead of Snowdonia, Bannau Brycheiniog instead of Brecon Beacons. In the northwest, Welsh is the everyday language.</p><p>The western slopes of Eryri are among the rainiest areas in Great Britain. Between May and September it is most reliable, but waterproof clothing should still be packed.</p>

<p>Two National Parks in northern England, about two hours' drive apart, yet fundamentally different. The Peak District is a cultural landscape of limestone, drystone walls, and stately homes, surrounded by Manchester, Sheffield, and Derby. The Lake District is high mountains in miniature, with deep lakes and fells over 900 metres.</p><p>Both are easily accessible by train, but on the ground, you'll need a car or good nerves for the bus routes. The Peak District was Britain's first National Park in 1951, prompted by the Mass Trespass on Kinder Scout two decades earlier.</p><p>Weather changes in both parks are swift and severe. For upland routes, a map, compass, and waterproof clothing belong in your pack; mobile network coverage isn't everywhere.</p>