Self-guided holidays : Self-guided short break walking holidays : Hidden gems
West Wiltshire's Wylye Valley
Set in the chalk downland on the western edge of Salisbury Plain, the Wylye Valley is a hidden gem which is only just beginning to be discovered. Long downland ridges topped with prehistoric hill forts with far-reaching views support an abundance of wild flowers, butterflies and birdlife. In June the unspoilt grassland is cloaked in the purple and pink of wild orchids and the rare early gentian, followed through July and August by an abundance of harebells, scabious, ox-eye daisies and wild roses. The eastern flank of the valley, known as the Great Ridge, is topped with attractive woodland which comes alive with a spectacular carpet of native bluebells from around the end of April until mid-May. The River Wylye is a crystal-clear chalk stream, noted for its trout and grayling fishing, which flows gently through a series of picturesque, unspoilt and undiscovered villages.
Your first walk will take you along the airy downland ridge which links Cotley Hill with the Iron-age hillforts of Battlesbury and Scratchbury, where steep battlements, tumuli and medieval field systems make the sense of history almost palpable. Your second walk will take you alongside the tranquil River Wylye and through the unspoilt villages of Knook, Corton, Stockton and Sherrington, before visiting Great Ridge Woods for grand views of the surrounding countryside and a wonderful display of bluebells in season.
We have lived at the foot of Cotley Hill for the last seventeen years and climb to the top every day. We are as thrilled by the view now as we were in 1990, and still derive tremendous pleasure from spotting the first lark, boxing hare, adonis blue butterfly, cowslip, orchid and hawthorn blossom of the year.
You will stay at the Angel Inn in the riverside village of Heytesbury. The Angel is a sixteenth century coaching inn which provides an excellent blend of original features and contemporary comfort. Eating at the Angel is a treat in itself and an excellent menu, which makes great use of locally-produced fish and meat, is complemented by a great selection of local ales and fine wines.
Holiday options
| Code: SBWWV |
| Nights: 3 |
| Price: £360 |
- All of the above prices are per person, and based upon two guests sharing a double or twin-bedded room.
- Single traveller supplement; £150
(More about single supplement). - Discounts available for parties of three or more guests.
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