Cape to Cape: A 1,250-mile backpacking walk from Cornwall to Cape Wrath in Scotland

John Sutcliffe, a professional geologist and landscape lover, embarks on a breathtaking 1,250-mile backpacking trek from Cape Cornwall to Cape Wrath in Scotland. He traverses the remote moor country of Dartmoor, Exmoor, and the Somerset Levels, crosses into Wales, and follows the Welsh border to Shropshire. He then treads the Pennine Way for 250 miles to the Scottish Borders, faces unforeseen challenges, and makes new friends. After traversing the Southern Uplands of Scotland and the Pentland Hills, he follows the West Highland Way to Fort William. He then sets out across the rugged and remote North West Highlands of Ardgour, Knoydart, Torridon, and Sutherland, exploring the bothy network along the Cape Wrath Trail and facing the onset of Hurricane Bertha. Cape to Cape is an inspiring story of one man's celebration of the diverse British countryside.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 288 pages
\n Publication date: 01 May 2018
\n Publisher: Crescent House
\n

On a late April morning, as the sun rises over the horizon, a seasoned geologist and avid landscape enthusiast named John Sutcliffe embarks on a remarkable backpacking trek that spans a staggering distance of 1,250 miles. Approaching his 70th birthday, John sets out from Cape Cornwall in South West England, his heart filled with gratitude for the near-perfect visibility that envelops him. Despite the late hour, he cannot resist the temptation to sit down and fully absorb the breathtaking beauty that surrounds him.

The journey begins along the rugged sea cliffs of Cornwall, where John sets foot on a path that will take him through the remote moorlands of Dartmoor, Exmoor, and the marshy Somerset Levels. As he traverses into Wales, he follows the enchanting Welsh border, passing through charming towns and villages. The landscape transforms into a tapestry of limestone dales, where John walks alongside the serene River Derwent, encountering breathtaking vistas and encountering unexpected challenges along the way.

For 250 miles, John embarks on the iconic Pennine Way, a trail that traverses the rugged terrain of Derbyshire. He shares his campsite with the nocturnal creatures, forging deep connections with nature and meeting fellow adventurers who become lifelong friends. The journey takes him through the Southern Uplands of Scotland, where he discovers hidden gems like the Pentland Hills, often overlooked by other walkers.

Continuing his adventure, John follows the West Highland Way to Fort William, where he reaches a significant milestone of 1,000 miles. It is here that he takes a brief pause to celebrate his mother's 100th birthday, surrounded by loved ones and the breathtaking landscapes that have accompanied him throughout his journey.

After the celebrations come to an end, John sets out across the rugged and awe-inspiring North West Highlands of Ardgour, Knoydart, Torridon, and Sutherland. He explores the bothy network along the Cape Wrath Trail, immersing himself in the cultural and political heritage of the region. With the onset of Hurricane Bertha, John faces the elements head-on, wild camping with curlews and enjoying the occasional luxury of a guest house en route.

Throughout his journey, John weaves his story with vivid details of the cultural and political heritage that underpins the stunning landscapes encountered. He shares insights into the geological processes that have shaped the landscape, providing a deeper understanding of the natural wonders that surround him. Cape to Cape is an inspiring tale of one man's celebration of the diverse British countryside.

As John continues his trek, he reflects on the transformative power of nature and the importance of preserving it for future generations. His journey serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit, as well as the awe-inspiring beauty that can be found within the confines of our planet.

In conclusion, John Sutcliffe's Cape to Cape journey is a testament to the human spirit's enduring strength and the awe-inspiring beauty of the British countryside. Through his journey, he celebrates the diversity of the British landscape, explores its cultural and political heritage, and immerses himself in the natural wonders that surround him. Whether wild camping with curlews or indulging in the occasional luxury of a guest house, John's story reminds us of the importance of connecting with nature and preserving the beauty of our planet for generations to come.

\n Weight: 724g\n
Dimension: 238 x 171 x 17 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781909461550\n \n