ISHBEL HOLMES, WORLD ADVENTURE CYCLIST AND AUTHOR
Where is it?
Falkirk. The area is blessed with more than 500km [310 miles] of chilled-out, traffic-free, nature-filled paths and trails, connecting the Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel.
Why do you go there?
Nature reserves, lagoons, pebble beaches along rivers, wildflower woodlands, raised boardwalks over wetlands and the wow factor of the Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel.
The rich diversity of wildlife and the phenomenal craftsmanship of art and engineering tick all the boxes for my senses.
It is a positive retreat from living in a crazy world that sometimes doesn’t make sense, by offering pathways into a world that does.
How often do you go?
Almost every day.
How did you discover it?
The Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel are world-famous these days. I discovered the rest simply by being curious and exploring my local area, just as I would when travelling foreign lands.
What’s your favourite memory?
I was walking my dog Maria towards a nature reserve, when we came to a crossroads and she abruptly stopped. No matter how much I coaxed her, she remained cemented to the spot, refusing to budge.
READ MORE: Wildlife gardens – top tips to make a home for nature
I had visions of carrying her which, at 17kg, was an unattractive prospect. A few minutes later, my now partner Steven and his dog Lucky came bounding down a path by our side and Maria went running over to them.
We said hello and after some chat, continued the walk together. Steven and I have been inseparable since. We are still exploring the trails, now with our baby growing inside me.
Who do you take?
It was just me and Maria, who I rescued from the streets of Brazil. Then it was me, Maria, Steven and Lucky. Now our baby girl (I’m 25 weeks pregnant) joins us too.
What do you take?
The same mindset I have when travelling the world, setting out with curiosity and focusing my mind and senses on the here and now surrounding me. Poop bags, too.
What do you leave behind?
My worries and incessant mind chatter to gift myself a holiday every single day, even during lockdown.
Sum it up in five words.
Nature. Discovery. Wildlife. Calming. Magical.
READ MORE: Wildlife gardens – top tips to make a home for nature
What travel spot is on your post-lockdown wish list?
Pre-pregnancy my answer would have been to explore a Bornean rainforest, go on a cycle tour of Africa or to trek Peru. But with a baby due in September, it will probably be braving the midges in a Scottish campsite.
Me, My Bike and A Street Dog Called Lucy by Ishbel Holmes is published by Bradt Travel Guides, priced £9.99. Visit worldbikegirl.com
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