Austria
1. We kicked off last year with the ultimate adventure—a road trip to Austria in our camper! It was our first time taking the van abroad, and boy, was it epic. We spent a week at the most amazing resort in Tirol, where the mountains greeted us with breathtaking views. The resort had it all, including an outdoor pool and spa. Picture this: swimming in the warm water as snowflakes gently fell around us. It was nothing short of surreal. Our days were filled with scenic drives, cozy nights in the camper, and unforgettable moments that made this road trip an adventure for the books.
Snowboarding
2. Starting from scratch, we decided to give snowboarding a shot, and guess what? We went from total beginners to confidently cruising down the slopes, all thanks to Snozone Castleford. Now, we’ve got a trip planned for this year to go snowboarding in the French Alps – talk about leveling up! From figuring out how to balance on the board to looking forward to snowy adventures in the mountains, our journey is all about turning falls into lessons and embracing the fun in learning something new. Here’s to the excitement of conquering the slopes and the anticipation of our upcoming snowy escapade!
Wales
3. Our weekend road trip to Wales was a blast! We did all sorts of cool stuff, like bouncing around at Bounce Below and zooming on the Velocity Zip Line. We also checked out the Slate Museum to learn about Wales’ history. It was non-stop fun, and every day had something new. The mix of exciting adventures and exploring made our trip a fantastic and unforgettable experience.
Fern Competition
4. Throwing it back to an awesome project, we took on the challenge of converting a VW Caddy Maxi into a full-fledged campervan. Check out the details here: link to more info. We poured our hearts into this custom build, making it a cozy home on wheels. The best part? We decided to share the love by raffling it off for just £5 a ticket! It was incredible to see the response and excitement from folks eager to have their own campervan adventure. The cherry on top was delivering the fully-equipped van to the lucky winners in Wales, making their dream of hitting the road a reality. The entire journey taught us so much, from carpentry skills to the joy of creating something special for others. It was an unforgettable experience that brought together the thrill of DIY craftsmanship and the happiness of making dreams come true on the open road.
Chirk
5. Our trip to Chirk was super fun, especially because we tried paddleboarding for the first time on the famous aqueduct there. It was cool to paddle over the water and look down at the Chirk Aqueduct carrying the canal above the River Ceiriog. The views of the countryside were awesome, and it felt both exciting and peaceful at the same time. This was our first aqueduct experience, and it made for a memorable day filled with simple joys and beautiful landscapes.
Yorkshire Dales
6. Our time in the Yorkshire Dales was awesome! We explored so much, from the cool Malham Cove to cute villages like Skipton. The Ribblehead Viaduct was a standout with its huge arches and old-fashioned vibe against the hills. We also checked out Druids Temple, feeling like we stepped into some ancient world. It was a fun adventure filled with beautiful spots and interesting history, making our trip something to remember.
Sheffield
7. Sheffield never fails to surprise us with its diverse and unique adventures, and one standout experience was our visit to the Builders Brew, the Lego cafe that added a playful twist to our usual outings. The cafe, with its vibrant and whimsical atmosphere, felt like a haven for Lego enthusiasts. As we sipped our drinks surrounded by colourful Lego creations, the air buzzed with creativity and nostalgia. The imaginative decor and the chance to build our own Lego masterpieces at the table turned a simple cafe visit into a memorable adventure. Sheffield, with its ability to blend the ordinary with the extraordinary, continues to provide us with delightful surprises and unforgettable moments.
Sunderland
8. Our trip to Sunderland was really awesome! We had a blast at the beautiful beaches and enjoyed the busy harbor with all its cool activities. The sea breeze and sandy shores were so relaxing. And guess what? We also saw the Angel of the North, this huge sculpture that looked amazing against the sky. Sunderland’s mix of beach fun, harbor excitement, and the impressive Angel of the North made our visit extra special and memorable.
Fielder Forest
9. Our excursion to Fielder Forest was an absolute delight, filled with nature’s wonders and an exhilarating forest drive. Surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, the forest provided a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The incredible forest drive was a highlight, allowing us to navigate through winding paths, marvel at the vibrant foliage, and absorb the peaceful ambiance of the woodland. The scent of pine and the rustle of leaves created a symphony of nature as we ventured deeper into the heart of the forest. It was a truly immersive experience, connecting us with the beauty of the outdoors and leaving us with cherished memories of our time amidst the enchanting landscapes of Fielder Forest.
NC500
10. We capped off the year on an exhilarating note by embarking on the North Coast 500 (NC500) adventure in Scotland, and it was nothing short of incredible. Our journey through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands revealed the raw beauty of nature, and highlights included an encounter with Callum the stag, a majestic creature that seemed like a mythical guardian of the highlands. The scenic drive took us to stunning beaches, each with its unique charm, and the rugged coastal landscapes left us in awe. From the mystical allure of ancient castles to the tranquility of lochs nestled between rolling hills, the NC500 presented a diverse tapestry of Scotland’s wonders. Ending the year with such a memorable road trip was the perfect way to appreciate the rich landscapes and unique experiences that Scotland has to offer, leaving us with lasting impressions and a sense of fulfillment as we welcomed the new year.
Thinking about 2023, our van adventures were a big highlight—road trips, cozy spots, and the joy of simple living. Alongside summits, oceans, and cultures, these van moments made the year special. Now, looking to 2024, we’re excited for more stories, simple joys, and new adventures on the horizon.
