How many miles is it (between start & finish of each day)? - This is one of the two most asked questions we get asked on a daily basis (the other being 'What's the weather going to be like today?') and unfortunately for the person asking, like the weather question, there is not a straightforward answer.
We don't think in terms of 'miles', we always think in terms of 'time'. Setting aside the fact that none of the maps produced in the last 30 years, give an indication of miles (as they're all measured in kilometeres), the distance to be covered (as seen on a map) does not give a clear indication of how long it will take to actually walk it.
There are some sections of the Trail that the majority of folk will find that they can comfortably walk at a rate of 4 kms (kilometeres) an hour (approximately 3 mph). There will also be other sections that the same walkers will find themselves only able to cover half that distance (and even less) in the same timeframe.
We put together hundreds of Itineraries for clients each year and the method we use is based on various factors - eg the overall timeframe that has been booked, the level of accommodation & services preferred and any special requests that may have been asked of us. Beyond that, we then factor in the terrain to be traversed each day and what distractions there are en-route (ie Sites of Interest) and thereby calculate the expected time that will be taken between each point. Within this calculation, there will also be consideration for whether you are just easing into your walk, or likely to be feeling a few aches from the previous day - and of course, we will have borne in mind all the feedback we've had over the last 8 years, as well as the fact that we ourselves have walked this Trail more times than anyone else.
So the general rule of thumb is 'don't think in terms of miles - think in terms of Terrain'! That being the case, don't be surprised when you're presented with an itinerary that has longer distances on the flat bits - you'll appreciate it when you reach the hills...
