Читать книгу Cycling in the Cotswolds. 21 half and full-day cycle routes, and a 4-day 200km Tour of the Cotswolds онлайн

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But beware the Jekyll-and-Hyde nature of off-road surfaces. When dry, the trails are hard-baked and although they may be bouncy or even bone-shaking they usually offer a relatively easy-going surface. Light or short-lived rain will not have a major effect on this once the ground has dried out in spring. Once wet-through, however, the surface can acquire the thick gloopy consistency of a bog, and may flood.

Unless you like thick, clarty, dauby sticky stuff, winter is definitely not recommended for the novice cyclist, and even the more experienced cyclist may wish to stick more to the roads. However, for the experienced and prepared cyclist, particularly one who enjoys a thoroughly muddy off-road challenge, winter offers a quiet and adventurous angle to a cycling visit to the Cotswolds.

All of the route descriptions in this book assume dry summer conditions.

Accommodation

Accommodation is widely available throughout the Cotswolds, although there are only a few hostels. Due to its popularity with tourists, the region’s hotels and B&Bs can seem quite expensive, especially in the summer season. The high demand for rooms during this time means it’s best to book your bed well in advance.