Beyond the beaches

DID YOU KNOW?

Your SUP paddle should be 6-8 inches (15-20 centimetres) taller than you – longer foR racing, shorter for surfing.

There’s certainly no shortage of water in the Shire area! Our many rivers and lakes are perfect for watersports, and we’re fortunate to have a raft of organisations and companies that make these activities possible. One sport that has really taken off over the past couple of years is stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) – whether as an active distance sport or serene relaxation.

A study by property rental experts Holiday Cottages found that SUP was the watersport most Brits wanted to try in 2021, with over 40 percent in all age categories eager to give it a go. And why not? It is an incredible workout and gives you the beauty and tranquillity of being out on the water. We asked the experts at Wave – who make and sell everything you need to get started – to share their beginner’s guide to paddle boarding…

EQUIPMENT Find the right board first. Choose a wider, longer, thicker board as your beginner board, and as you improve in balance and technique, you can advance to shorter and thinner boards. A leash can be a good safety measure. As you are likely to fall off the board often, learning to balance and self-correct, you don’t want your board to drift too far away!

SAFETY As with any sport, practice makes perfect. According to the RNLI, you should consider getting lessons on land before hitting the water. This can teach you the correct techniques for mounting, dismounting and moving your board, as well as precautions for when you are out on the water. Keep to a level you’re comfortable with until you’re ready – you don’t want to paddle for the first time in aggressive water. Instead, find lakes or other calm water to practise your techniques.

FALLING No matter your skill level, you are going to fall in at some point. Remember, paddle boarding is a watersport, so embracing the water is natural. Wear a flotation device of some sort for reassurance. If your stance is correct, you should be fairly balanced, but once you start paddling it can become harder to maintain stability. For the best chance of staying on your board, remember to paddle with your core. Your centre should be tight. Keeping an eye on the horizon will also help – looking down at your board could throw you off-centre.

white-knuckle rides

Few inland watersports are more exhilarating white-water rafting and the Shire patch is home to the perfect locaton. The National White Water Centre in Bala is a haven for adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies. Tucked away in Snowdonia National Park, this world-class facility offers a range of activities that will get your heart pounding and leave you with unforgettable memories. The centre boasts an artificial white-water course that simulates the challenges of rafting on natural rivers. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced rafter, you can navigate the turbulent rapids, work as a team and conquer the twists and turns of the course. With qualified guides leading the way, you’ll experience the rush of excitement as you paddle the foaming waters.

For those seeking an even more intense adventure, kayaking is another popular activity at the centre. The white-water course provides the perfect environment to test your kayaking skills, with powerful rapids and fast-moving water. Whether you’re a beginner seeking to pick up the basics or an advanced paddler looking to refine your technique, the National White Water Centre offers expert instruction and equipment rental to accommodate all levels.

Prefer to stay on dry land? Try your hand at canyoning –traversing steep gorges, jumping into pools and sliding down natural water chutes. This thrilling activity combines elements of climbing, scrambling and swimming and provides an exhilarating and unique experience.

Surf from the turf

White-water thrills

Obviously we couldn’t put together a water-based feature without mentioning the unique and world-famous attractions at Adventure Parc Snowdonia, formerly Surf Snowdonia. This innovative facility has revolutionised the surf scene by creating perfect, consistent waves in the heart of the countryside.

The main attraction is Surf Lagoon, a 300-metre lake, where advanced technology is utilised to create powerful and surfable waves – different types for surfers of all levels, from beginners to experienced riders. The waves are perfectly formed, predictable and consistent, allowing surfers to hone their skills, learn new techniques and experience the joy of the sport outside an ocean setting. The facility also offers equipment rentals, ensuring that visitors have access to top-quality surfboards and wetsuits. With its state-of-the-art wave technology, professional instruction and stunning natural backdrop, it’s a must-visit destination.

In The Swim

Open-air swimming is enjoying a boom, particularly since the pandemic when indoor pools were closed. More people are taking to rivers and lakes for an exhilarating daily dip, not just in the summer months but the whole year round. And then, of course, there’s the lido, a great British tradition that dates back to the 1930s.

Adventure Parc Sno

Bath retailer Showers To You looked to find the quietest outside pools in the UK and rate them for their peacefulness. Shire readers will be delighted to hear that when it comes to beating the crowds and keeping cool, Nantwich Brine Pool in Cheshire ranked seventh.

So if surfing, splashing, paddling and powerboating fill you with dread, head inland for some water therapy instead.

Play it safe

Swim at a lifeguarded beach Whenever possible, choose a beach with lifeguards on duty. They are trained professionals who can provide assistance and rescue in case of emergency. Swim between the red and yellow flags, as this area is closely monitored.

Check the tides Be aware of the tide times before heading to the beach. It’s important to know when the tide is coming in and going out to avoid being cut off from the shore or stranded on sandbars.

Respect the water The sea can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to respect its power. Cold water, strong currents and rip tides can catch even experienced swimmers offguard.

Float to live If you find yourself in trouble in the water, remember to float on your back and relax. This will help conserve energy until help arrives.

Beware of rip currents oat to live

These are strong, narrow currents that flow away from the shore. If caught, don’t panic or swim against the current. Swim parallel to the shore until you’re out of the current, then head for safety.

Be sun safe Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. Take breaks in the shade, especially during the hottest part of the day, to avoid exhaustion or sunstroke.

Keep an eye on children Supervise children at all times near the water, whether it’s at the beach, pool or near rivers or lakes. Equip them with buoyancy aids appropriate for their age and swimming ability.

Don’t drink and swim: Alcohol impairs judgment, coordination and reaction time. Save the celebration for after you’ve left the water.

Call for help If you see someone in trouble in the water, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Do not enter the water unless you are a trained rescuer.

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is the charity that saves lives at sea. It is dedicated to promoting water safety and preventing accidents and drownings in the UK. Find out more and support them where you can at www.rnli.org