Founded by Chris and Abby – two runners and two wine lovers who combined their passions to create Trails and Vines. The weekend getaways are all about having a good time with like-minded individuals while improving your running on local trails. The holidays include 1-1 coaching, top accommodation, winery visits, and plenty of delicious food and wine!
I’ve just returned from one of their 3 day stays in Norfolk. Here is what we got up to. Although this was a press trip, the experience we had was identical to what they offer during their breaks.
Day one
The break started at Norwich station where we were collected by Chris who drove us to our home for the next few days. We arrived at the beautiful Stubbs House, greeted with refreshments and the most amazing lemon drizzle cake.
After everyone had been introduced it was time to get the running shoes on. Our first run together was around 4 miles and took us through local trails to Chet Vineyard where Abby led us through a yoga session in their fabulous tasting room. Well-stretched, we enjoyed a glass of fizz on the terrace overlooking the vines.
Back to Stubbs house for a chill in the hot tub and dinner. You won’t go hungry on these trips, Abby makes delicious, nutritious food.
Day two
After a peaceful night’s sleep we awoke to another one of Abby’s fabulous spreads. Fuelled with homemade granola, yogurts, and porridge we headed into the garden for a strength session, followed by a short run to the river for some speed work.
You’re in safe hands with 2 knowledgable coaches on hand for support. The sessions are tailored so you don’t need to worry about being able to keep up or being too slow.
I enjoyed the interval session – it’s one I will do again. We ran out along the river path for 3 mins. Rest. Then ran 2.5 mins back (1.5 mins / Rest / 1 min) – with the aim being try and get back to the starting point. Out of the 5 repeats I think I got close(ish) on 2.
In the afternoon we enjoyed a tour and tasting at one of England’s most exciting new wine producers, Winbirri Vineyard. They’ve won multiple industry awards and we learned all about their amazing still and sparkling wines. My knowledge of wine is limited to the fact that it comes in a bottle at the supermarket. Yet, I learned a lot during the 3-hour tour. After tasting 5 wines (with generous pours), I purchased a bottle of my favourite – the award-winning Bacchus.
A chilled evening followed, before another delicious homemade meal and wine. At this point I was wondering if I could convince Abby to move up north and be my live-in chef!
Day three
Long-run day! We had an option of 2 distances (12 or 17km) through the glorious trails of South Norfolk. Again, every pace is catered for and we re-grouped at several points along the way.
Run done, it was back to Stubbs House for a good restorative yoga stretch and lunch before being dropped off at the station by Chris.
I absolutely loved my weekend with Trails & Vines. Great company, great food, great wine and some running thrown in. I didn’t want to leave! Chris and Abby since they are both so friendly and welcoming and I loved sending time with them. Perfect combo for those who love running and wine. Don’t worry about holidaying solo – you will meet some amazing, like-minded people while you are there.
A great trip… anyone fancy booking a break for next year? I know I do.
Trails and Vines offer a selection of holidays and retreats in Bergerac, Rioja and the UK to find your next break click here – and tell Abby and Chris I say hi!
