This bikepacking story marks the beginning of a new chapter in Gillians ongoing journey of self-discovery—one that lives beyond comfort zones, routines, and the safety of the familiar.
Right now, I'm packing. Trying not to overthink it. Trying not to let the rabbit hole of YouTube videos convince me I need more gear, more preparation, more… something. I'm choosing to trust what I have. To believe that it's enough. And to remember this is all part of the learning.
Whatever happens out there—rain, sore legs, unexpected turns—it's all experience I'll carry forward. Especially with a bigger ride looming later this year: from Windhoek to Cape Town. But for now, it's time to roll out and begin.
The Setup – Alpkit Gear That Carried Me:
2 x Toliari Pannier 20L, 1x Toliari Pannier 12L
Spacious, stable, and weatherproof — these panniers made packing easy and riding balanced. They stayed put even on rough sections and helped me travel light without compromise.
Absolutely loved this compact cooking system. Quick to boil, efficient, and easy to use. Made every morning tea and evening meal a ritual to look forward to.
Airo 180 Sleeping Mat Comfortable, compact, and easy to inflate. It made my first night under canvas surprisingly restful — even if sleep was hard to come by.
My trusty companion for this trip — the Mool felt solid and agile, especially fully loaded. It handled hills and quiet lanes with ease and gave me confidence I didn't know I had.
Small but mighty. Lightweight, dries fast, and packs down tiny — a brilliant bit of kit that quickly became essential.
Day 1 – Ilkeston to Holbrook and Beyond (40km)
Weather: Clear skies, dry, sunshine.
Woke with a sense of peace and excitement… plus a touch of anxiety. I packed up Lulu (my bike), loaded with all my kit, and set out from Hemlock Stone towards the High Peak Trail.
As I pedalled through quiet country lanes and over rolling hills, something shifted. I began to truly see — the world at handlebar level, unfiltered and slow enough to take in. There's magic in that. I felt strong. Capable. Alive.
And when the sunset painted the sky and a full moon rose behind me, I knew I was exactly where I was meant to be.
Day 2 – Tannenbaum Campsite Loop via Cromford Canal (30km)
Weather: Misty sunrise, calm, sunshine and clouds, dry.
My first night in the tent was… well, an experience. Not uncomfortable (thanks to the Airo mat), but the silence was so deep I could hear my own breath. Eerie, humbling, and beautiful.
I woke early, just after 6 a.m., to a sunrise that stopped me in my tracks. The whole valley was wrapped in mist, golden light rising slowly through it. I brewed tea on the Brukit — flawless, again — and sat quietly in gratitude.
The day's ride was gentler, looping through canal paths and old rail trails. It was peaceful, meditative. And as I returned to camp, I realised: each ride brings lessons, laughter, and a little lighter.
Final Thoughts
Alpkit gear supported me brilliantly — simple, rugged, thoughtfully made, and exactly what I needed. For anyone wondering if you really need all the extra stuff, I'll say this: trust what you have. Use what works. And let the adventure teach you the rest.
Here's to the road ahead — and the rides that remind us of who we really are.