Chapter 1: A Taste of Switzerland in Shropshire

It has been nearly a decade since my last visit to Shropshire. Back in 2013, I spent time near Ludlow, a town renowned for its culinary delights. This trip, however, finds us further north, near Church Stretton, which earned the nickname “Little Switzerland” during the Victorian era. The surrounding peaks easily justify this title. The area is alive with the sounds of insects and birds, primarily summer visitors that arrive with spring. The heather has yet to bloom, so the “purple haze” I remember from my previous visit is still absent.

Despite this, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy. We've opted for a five-mile loop that begins and ends in Carding Mill Valley. Upon reaching the summit, we anticipate breathtaking vistas stretching across Shropshire and beyond.

Our walk isn't exactly a stroll in the park. The initial ascent is steep as we navigate the rocky path alongside the stream, guided by pink arrows. The melodic song of larks reverberates through the valley, while a blanket of grey clouds serves as a reminder of the morning rain. The temperature, however, remains comfortably in the mid to late teens.

It's amusing to realize that the Welsh border is just a few miles away—a region I’d love to revisit. A thought crosses my mind: if the Welsh were to pursue independence like the Scots, would we soon require passports to cross the border? Interestingly, we don’t need one to visit Scotland.

As we reach the summit, the hills surrounding us appear majestic, and the landscape is simply breathtaking. The Mynd, derived from the Welsh word for mountain, extends far and wide. Looking eastward, the rooftops of Church Stretton resemble tiny dollhouses, reinforcing its “Little Switzerland” nickname.

Two birds of prey soar above, likely searching for a meal. This sight makes me reflect on the numerous hikers and cyclists I’ve encountered along the way, not all of whom adhere to the principle of leaving no trace.

We begin our descent into the valley, where the path becomes more rugged. At last, my walking shoes get a real workout. I purchased them a few months back, but until now, they have only traversed the gentle landscapes of Abney Park and Hampstead Heath. Here, we navigate the challenging terrain, bending and crouching as we go. Our map suggests we might find ourselves at the top of Old Rectory Road, but we end up taking an unnecessary detour. Ultimately, we find our way back to the base of Carding Mill Valley, where our journey commenced.

As we return to Birmingham, I can’t help but hum Jimi Hendrix’s "Purple Haze." In my rendition, the lyrics have been slightly altered: “Whatever it is/Shropshire put a spell on me.”

The first video showcases the stunning landscapes of the Cotswolds, featuring beautiful English countryside villages adorned with classic limestone houses. It’s a testament to the enchanting scenery that inspires many creative minds.

Chapter 2: Embracing the Nature of Switzerland

In this section, we explore the serene beauty of Switzerland's countryside, walking through a fruit paradise in Altnau. The lush landscapes and vibrant agriculture encapsulate the essence of natural abundance.

This second video offers a glimpse into the pastoral life of Switzerland, where walking through orchards filled with fruit trees reveals the simple joys of rural living. It's a refreshing perspective on creativity found in nature.