This Healthy Avocado Salad is one of those simple, nourishing recipes you’ll find yourself making on repeat. It’s fresh, colorful, and made with just a handful of wholesome ingredients that really let each flavor shine.
Creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, sweet yellow tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion are tossed in a light lime dressing with extra-virgin olive oil, garlic, and just a touch of honey. Fresh cilantro is mixed right into the salad and finished with a little extra on top for garnish.
The result is a bright, balanced salad that works beautifully as a side dish, light lunch, or easy addition to any summer meal.
What You’ll Love About Avocado Salad
Quick & Easy: Ready in about 10 minutes for busy nights.
Dietary Friendly: Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with healthy fats and fresh vegetables
Perfect Pairing: Light, bright flavors that pair well with almost any meal
Easy Entertaining: Perfect for summer dinners, potlucks, or easy entertaining
Healthy Avocado Salad Ingredients
Ripe avocados – Creamy and rich, forming the base of the salad
English cucumber – Adds crunch and refreshing texture
Yellow tomatoes – Sweet, juicy, and slightly milder than red tomatoes
Red onion – Thinly sliced for a little bite and depth of flavor
Fresh cilantro – You may use pa
Fresh lime juice – Brings acidity and keeps the avocado vibrant
Extra-virgin olive oil – Smooths and balances the dressing
Sea salt & freshly ground black pepper – To bring everything together
(See printable recipe card for full list of ingredients)
How to Make Avocado Salad
Prep the vegetables: Dice the avocados, slice the cucumber, halve the yellow tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Add everything to a large bowl along with most of the chopped cilantro, reserving a small handful for garnish.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, extra-virgin olive oil, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Toss gently: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat, being careful not to mash the avocado.
Finish and serve: Sprinkle with the remaining cilantro for garnish, adjust seasoning to taste, and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
Lemon swap: Fresh lemon juice works well if you don’t have limes. Your favorite vinegar would also be a great substitute for the citrus juice.
Herb option: Not a fan of cilantro? Substitute fresh parsleyinstead or omit it.
Milder onion: Soak sliced red onion in cold water for 5 minutes to soften the flavor.
Make it a meal: Add grilled or shredded chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
Nutritional Benefits of Avocado Salad
This Avocado Salad is full of feel-good nutrition.
Avocados provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and potassium. Extra-virgin olive oil supports nutrient absorption and adds antioxidants. Fresh vegetables contribute hydration, vitamin C, and beneficial plant compounds that support overall wellness.
Because this salad contains healthy fats, your body can better absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the vegetables. Delicious and healthy.
Storage
Store in the refrigerator, covered, up to 3 days.
The lime (or lemon) juice in the dressing will help prevent the avocado from browning, but this avocado salad is best when consumed fresh.
I’ve been on the hunt for effective and affordable (because we have to be reasonable!), and Remedy Skincare is an honest favorite.
We invest so much time, money, and energy into our face products—serums, treatments, devices, etc.—and then expect a random body lotion to magically do the rest. Now that I’m in my 40s, I know I need to up my game on my body care.
That’s how I found Remedy Skincare, and it’s quickly become my favorite for smoothing body texture, reducing bumps, and improving skin quality without irritation, all at a good price point.
And yes, I’ve got a code for you, and it works sitewide. Remedy is already a good price, so this discount code is just the icing on the cake:
As I mentioned, being in my 40s has made me notice my skin MUCH more. I’ve been taking care of my face, neck & chest since my 20s, but started noticing my arms and legs needed a little more love.
Some derms recommend a retinol body cream, and I’m PICKY about retinol—both on the face and the body. Retinol is incredibly effective, but when it’s done poorly it can cause redness, dryness, and irritation, especially when applied to larger areas like arms and legs.
Remedy stood out because it’s formulated by a doctor and designed to solve real skin issues without damaging your skin barrier. They are science-focused, not hypy, and priced well. All in all, I think it’s a fantastic skincare line!
After using it consistently, I can honestly say: The Remedy Body Lotion gets rid of body bumps. All of them. It also smooths & firms. I love it! It’s my hero product.
What Makes Remedy Different
Remedy isn’t a flashy brand, and that’s exactly why I trust it.
The company is built around the idea of solving skin problems with expertise and empathy. Their founder is a doctor with a sworn responsibility to help others, and that philosophy carries through every product.
Instead of overloading formulas with unnecessary ingredients, Remedy focuses on:
Proven actives that actually work
Gentle, skin-respecting formulations
Clear solutions for common skin concerns
This is skincare designed to do something, not just look good on a shelf.
Remedy for Body Bumps (The Standout Product)
If you try one thing from Remedy, make it the retinol body lotion for body bumps.
This product does three things extremely well:
Smooths rough, bumpy texture
Improves skin firmness
Delivers retinol benefits without irritation
It’s rare to find a retinol body product that’s effective and comfortable enough to use consistently. This one manages both.
I use it a few nights a week, usually after showering, and my skin feels smoother within days — with real, visible improvement over time.
At around $28, it’s also an incredible value for something that actually works and lasts for months.
Other Remedy Best Sellers Worth Trying
While the body lotion is what made me a fan, Remedy has several other standout products that deserve attention.
Derm Dissolve Cleansing Balm
This is a gentle but effective cleansing balm that melts away makeup, sunscreen, and buildup without stripping your skin. It leaves skin clean, soft, and comfortable — not tight or dry.
Dark Spot Correcting Advanced Serum
This serum is designed to target discoloration and uneven tone without harsh ingredients. It’s a solid option if you’re working on dark spots, sun damage, or post-breakout marks and want something that’s effective but still gentle.
Rich Cream Barrier Repairing Moisturizer
If your skin runs dry, sensitive, or compromised, this moisturizer is excellent. It focuses on repairing and supporting the skin barrier, which is essential if you’re using actives like retinol.
It’s rich without feeling heavy and works well both day and night.
Gentle Retinol That Actually Works
A quick note on retinol, since there’s a lot of fear around it.
Retinol increases cell turnover, which is exactly what helps smooth bumps, unclog follicles, and improve texture. When formulated correctly, it strengthens skin over time rather than thinning it.
Remedy’s approach is balanced and skin-friendly. No burning, no peeling, no panic reaction — just steady improvement.
Who Remedy Skincare Is Best For
Remedy is a great fit if you:
Struggle with KP or body bumps
Want smoother, firmer skin
Want retinol results without irritation
Prefer doctor-developed skincare
Appreciate effective products at a reasonable price
Remedy Skincare does exactly what good skincare should do: it solves real problems without overcomplicating things. If body bumps have been driving you crazy—or you want thoughtful, effective skincare that respects your skin—Remedy is absolutely worth trying.
I’ve been on the hunt for effective and affordable (because we have to be reasonable!), and Remedy Skincare is an honest favorite.
We invest so much time, money, and energy into our face products—serums, treatments, devices, etc.—and then expect a random body lotion to magically do the rest. Now that I’m in my 40s, I know I need to up my game on my body care.
That’s how I found Remedy Skincare, and it’s quickly become my favorite for smoothing body texture, reducing bumps, and improving skin quality without irritation, all at a good price point.
And yes, I’ve got a code for you, and it works sitewide. Remedy is already a good price, so this discount code is just the icing on the cake:
As I mentioned, being in my 40s has made me notice my skin MUCH more. I’ve been taking care of my face, neck & chest since my 20s, but started noticing my arms and legs needed a little more love.
Some derms recommend a retinol body cream, and I’m PICKY about retinol—both on the face and the body. Retinol is incredibly effective, but when it’s done poorly it can cause redness, dryness, and irritation, especially when applied to larger areas like arms and legs.
Remedy stood out because it’s formulated by a doctor and designed to solve real skin issues without damaging your skin barrier. They are science-focused, not hypy, and priced well. All in all, I think it’s a fantastic skincare line!
After using it consistently, I can honestly say: The Remedy Body Lotion gets rid of body bumps. All of them. It also smooths & firms. I love it! It’s my hero product.
What Makes Remedy Different
Remedy isn’t a flashy brand, and that’s exactly why I trust it.
The company is built around the idea of solving skin problems with expertise and empathy. Their founder is a doctor with a sworn responsibility to help others, and that philosophy carries through every product.
Instead of overloading formulas with unnecessary ingredients, Remedy focuses on:
Proven actives that actually work
Gentle, skin-respecting formulations
Clear solutions for common skin concerns
This is skincare designed to do something, not just look good on a shelf.
Remedy for Body Bumps (The Standout Product)
If you try one thing from Remedy, make it the retinol body lotion for body bumps.
This product does three things extremely well:
Smooths rough, bumpy texture
Improves skin firmness
Delivers retinol benefits without irritation
It’s rare to find a retinol body product that’s effective and comfortable enough to use consistently. This one manages both.
I use it a few nights a week, usually after showering, and my skin feels smoother within days — with real, visible improvement over time.
At around $28, it’s also an incredible value for something that actually works and lasts for months.
Other Remedy Best Sellers Worth Trying
While the body lotion is what made me a fan, Remedy has several other standout products that deserve attention.
Derm Dissolve Cleansing Balm
This is a gentle but effective cleansing balm that melts away makeup, sunscreen, and buildup without stripping your skin. It leaves skin clean, soft, and comfortable — not tight or dry.
Dark Spot Correcting Advanced Serum
This serum is designed to target discoloration and uneven tone without harsh ingredients. It’s a solid option if you’re working on dark spots, sun damage, or post-breakout marks and want something that’s effective but still gentle.
Rich Cream Barrier Repairing Moisturizer
If your skin runs dry, sensitive, or compromised, this moisturizer is excellent. It focuses on repairing and supporting the skin barrier, which is essential if you’re using actives like retinol.
It’s rich without feeling heavy and works well both day and night.
Gentle Retinol That Actually Works
A quick note on retinol, since there’s a lot of fear around it.
Retinol increases cell turnover, which is exactly what helps smooth bumps, unclog follicles, and improve texture. When formulated correctly, it strengthens skin over time rather than thinning it.
Remedy’s approach is balanced and skin-friendly. No burning, no peeling, no panic reaction — just steady improvement.
Who Remedy Skincare Is Best For
Remedy is a great fit if you:
Struggle with KP or body bumps
Want smoother, firmer skin
Want retinol results without irritation
Prefer doctor-developed skincare
Appreciate effective products at a reasonable price
Remedy Skincare does exactly what good skincare should do: it solves real problems without overcomplicating things. If body bumps have been driving you crazy—or you want thoughtful, effective skincare that respects your skin—Remedy is absolutely worth trying.
Coffee table books make such a fabulous accessory, adding beautiful style and color to any area of your home. Learn where to find the best coffee table books for decorating and gifting!
Get the secrets to help make a rug purchase so easy! Find out how to narrow down your choices based on size, color, material and durability. This rug shopping guide makes the process simple and yes… even fun!
You know I’m always keeping an eye on emerging science, especially when it comes to cellular health and longevity. So when I started seeing reports that fish oil supplements can go rancid, it made me pause.
I’ve taken omega-3s for years, but between inconsistent sourcing, oxidation concerns, and that not-so-lovely aftertaste, I began exploring better options. That’s when Fatty15 landed on my radar—and I’ve been using it ever since.
In this post, I’ll walk you through what Fatty15 is, how it works, why it’s different from fish oil, and how to get 15% off your first order if you want to give it a try.
Fatty15 Discount Code: Use code ELIZABETH15 at checkout or shop directly through this link to save 15%: fatty15.com/ELIZABETH15
What Is Fatty15?
Fatty15 is the world’s first and only pure supplement form of C15:0, an essential fatty acid that was discovered—believe it or not—while helping older Navy dolphins age more gracefully. (Yes, really.)
C15:0 is a saturated, odd-chain fatty acid that naturally supports cell membrane strength, metabolic health, and longevity pathways. Unlike omega-3s (which are polyunsaturated and prone to oxidation), C15:0 is more stable—and may be even more effective.
It’s been the subject of 100+ peer-reviewed studies, with benefits spanning immune function, cellular repair, mitochondrial support, and more.
Why I Tried Fatty15
I was genuinely curious by Fatty15 recently when I started seeing reports that fish oil can go bad, especially if stored improperly or exposed to light and heat. Since I still wanted to keep my omega profile up, I started looking into alternatives and came across C15:0.
What stood out to me right away:
It’s vegan
It’s more stable than omega-3s
It’s third-party tested and research-backed
And it’s just one tiny, odorless capsule a day
So far, I’ve really liked it. Within a few weeks of consistent use, I noticed better sustained energy, fewer mood dips in the afternoon, and an overall feeling of being more balanced.
Fatty15 Is Backed by Real Science
A few quick facts that sealed the deal for me:
C15:0 has been called “the first essential fatty acid discovered in 90 years”
Fatty15 is the only supplement that delivers it in a pure, vegan-friendly form
Their parent company, Seraphina Therapeutics, was just ranked #1 fastest-growing supplement company and #5 fastest-growing consumer products company in the U.S. by the Inc. 5000
Over 100,000+ people now take it daily, and 6,000+ 5-star reviews speak for themselves
Even better? They’ve made sustainability a core value—Fatty15 comes in plastic-free, refillable packaging.
What Does C15:0 Do, Exactly?
C15:0 works by supporting the foundation of health: your cells. It’s been shown to:
Strengthen cell membranes, helping them resist age-related breakdown
Activate AMPK and PPARs, key longevity pathways in the body
Support mitochondrial function (your cell’s energy centers)
Promote balanced metabolism, immune response, and mood regulation
Act as a pro-longevity nutrient, helping reduce oxidative stress and inflammation
And because it’s an odd-chain saturated fat, it’s less prone to oxidation and breakdown than polyunsaturated fats (like omega-3s from fish oil).
Fatty15 (C15:0)
Fish Oil (Omega-3s)
Stability
Highly stable (saturated)
Can oxidize easily (PUFA)
Taste/Smell
Odorless, tasteless capsule
Fishy taste and burps
Source
Vegan, sustainable microbes
Often marine-based
Longevity Pathways
Activates AMPK + PPARs
Some pathways, less stable effect
Daily Dose
1 small capsule
2–4 large capsules
Aftertaste
None
Common side effect
Fatty15 is a smart, low-maintenance upgrade—especially if you’re concerned about fish oil quality or want a vegan option.
What’s Inside the Bottle?
Just one ingredient: FA15, the patented, pure form of C15:0.
Vegan
Odorless and tasteless
Microbe-derived (not dairy or fish)
100% clean formula—no fillers, binders, or fluff
Comes in glass packaging with recyclable refills
It’s simple, clean, and does what it says.
My Experience So Far
I take one capsule in the morning with my other supplements. No side effects, no aftertaste—and it travels well. It’s now part of my daily rhythm, and I feel good knowing it’s supporting my cells from the inside out.
What I’ve noticed after a few weeks:
More stable energy throughout the day
Fewer afternoon mood swings
Better overall clarity and focus
Zero digestive issues or weird taste (huge win if you’ve tried fish oil before!)
Fatty15 Pros & Cons
Pros:
Backed by science and 100+ studies
Only one capsule daily
Vegan, sustainable, third-party tested
No fishy smell, burps, or aftertaste
Supports whole-body health and healthy aging
Cons:
Premium price point (but in my opinion, this is offset by quality and benefits)
Results are subtle and long-term (not an overnight fix, which isn’t necessarily a con, but it does take time)
Fatty15 Discount Code
Since you’re a blog reader, you can save 15% on your first order. Just use my code ELIZABETH15 at checkout, or click the link below to have it auto-applied:
You’ll also be supporting my work when you use this link—thank you! I only recommend what I genuinely use and believe in.
If you’re looking to support your health at the cellular level, Fatty15 is worth your attention. It’s simple, research-backed, and rooted in real science (plus, the dolphin story? Love it). I’ve been genuinely impressed with how it fits into my daily wellness routine and feel confident recommending it as a smarter omega alternative.
Let me know how it goes if you give it a try—I always love hearing what’s working for you.
You know I’m always keeping an eye on emerging science, especially when it comes to cellular health and longevity. So when I started seeing reports that fish oil supplements can go rancid, it made me pause.
I’ve taken omega-3s for years, but between inconsistent sourcing, oxidation concerns, and that not-so-lovely aftertaste, I began exploring better options. That’s when Fatty15 landed on my radar—and I’ve been using it ever since.
In this post, I’ll walk you through what Fatty15 is, how it works, why it’s different from fish oil, and how to get 15% off your first order if you want to give it a try.
Fatty15 Discount Code: Use code ELIZABETH15 at checkout or shop directly through this link to save 15%: fatty15.com/ELIZABETH15
What Is Fatty15?
Fatty15 is the world’s first and only pure supplement form of C15:0, an essential fatty acid that was discovered—believe it or not—while helping older Navy dolphins age more gracefully. (Yes, really.)
C15:0 is a saturated, odd-chain fatty acid that naturally supports cell membrane strength, metabolic health, and longevity pathways. Unlike omega-3s (which are polyunsaturated and prone to oxidation), C15:0 is more stable—and may be even more effective.
It’s been the subject of 100+ peer-reviewed studies, with benefits spanning immune function, cellular repair, mitochondrial support, and more.
Why I Tried Fatty15
I was genuinely curious by Fatty15 recently when I started seeing reports that fish oil can go bad, especially if stored improperly or exposed to light and heat. Since I still wanted to keep my omega profile up, I started looking into alternatives and came across C15:0.
What stood out to me right away:
It’s vegan
It’s more stable than omega-3s
It’s third-party tested and research-backed
And it’s just one tiny, odorless capsule a day
So far, I’ve really liked it. Within a few weeks of consistent use, I noticed better sustained energy, fewer mood dips in the afternoon, and an overall feeling of being more balanced.
Fatty15 Is Backed by Real Science
A few quick facts that sealed the deal for me:
C15:0 has been called “the first essential fatty acid discovered in 90 years”
Fatty15 is the only supplement that delivers it in a pure, vegan-friendly form
Their parent company, Seraphina Therapeutics, was just ranked #1 fastest-growing supplement company and #5 fastest-growing consumer products company in the U.S. by the Inc. 5000
Over 100,000+ people now take it daily, and 6,000+ 5-star reviews speak for themselves
Even better? They’ve made sustainability a core value—Fatty15 comes in plastic-free, refillable packaging.
What Does C15:0 Do, Exactly?
C15:0 works by supporting the foundation of health: your cells. It’s been shown to:
Strengthen cell membranes, helping them resist age-related breakdown
Activate AMPK and PPARs, key longevity pathways in the body
Support mitochondrial function (your cell’s energy centers)
Promote balanced metabolism, immune response, and mood regulation
Act as a pro-longevity nutrient, helping reduce oxidative stress and inflammation
And because it’s an odd-chain saturated fat, it’s less prone to oxidation and breakdown than polyunsaturated fats (like omega-3s from fish oil).
Fatty15 (C15:0)
Fish Oil (Omega-3s)
Stability
Highly stable (saturated)
Can oxidize easily (PUFA)
Taste/Smell
Odorless, tasteless capsule
Fishy taste and burps
Source
Vegan, sustainable microbes
Often marine-based
Longevity Pathways
Activates AMPK + PPARs
Some pathways, less stable effect
Daily Dose
1 small capsule
2–4 large capsules
Aftertaste
None
Common side effect
Fatty15 is a smart, low-maintenance upgrade—especially if you’re concerned about fish oil quality or want a vegan option.
What’s Inside the Bottle?
Just one ingredient: FA15, the patented, pure form of C15:0.
Vegan
Odorless and tasteless
Microbe-derived (not dairy or fish)
100% clean formula—no fillers, binders, or fluff
Comes in glass packaging with recyclable refills
It’s simple, clean, and does what it says.
My Experience So Far
I take one capsule in the morning with my other supplements. No side effects, no aftertaste—and it travels well. It’s now part of my daily rhythm, and I feel good knowing it’s supporting my cells from the inside out.
What I’ve noticed after a few weeks:
More stable energy throughout the day
Fewer afternoon mood swings
Better overall clarity and focus
Zero digestive issues or weird taste (huge win if you’ve tried fish oil before!)
Fatty15 Pros & Cons
Pros:
Backed by science and 100+ studies
Only one capsule daily
Vegan, sustainable, third-party tested
No fishy smell, burps, or aftertaste
Supports whole-body health and healthy aging
Cons:
Premium price point (but in my opinion, this is offset by quality and benefits)
Results are subtle and long-term (not an overnight fix, which isn’t necessarily a con, but it does take time)
Fatty15 Discount Code
Since you’re a blog reader, you can save 15% on your first order. Just use my code ELIZABETH15 at checkout, or click the link below to have it auto-applied:
You’ll also be supporting my work when you use this link—thank you! I only recommend what I genuinely use and believe in.
If you’re looking to support your health at the cellular level, Fatty15 is worth your attention. It’s simple, research-backed, and rooted in real science (plus, the dolphin story? Love it). I’ve been genuinely impressed with how it fits into my daily wellness routine and feel confident recommending it as a smarter omega alternative.
Let me know how it goes if you give it a try—I always love hearing what’s working for you.
I don’t think I’ll ever forget the feeling of standing at the start of the Cotswold Way in the golden village of Chipping Campden. Early morning mist hugged the rooftops, and for a moment, the whole world felt hushed—like it was holding its breath right along with me.
Could I really walk 100 miles across England’s countryside? Was I ready for the hills, the rain, the blisters?
I was nervous. But as I tightened the straps on my backpack and took those first steps past the old market hall, something shifted. I wasn’t just starting a walk; I was stepping into a story—a winding path through history, nature, and, truthfully, myself.
Over the next ten days, I wandered through ancient woodlands, climbed up to sweeping escarpments with views that made me stop in my tracks, and ended each day in villages so charming it almost felt like I had wandered onto a movie set. There were tough climbs and muddy boots, yes, but also those quiet, golden moments that stitched themselves into my memory: a deer darting through a misty field, the clink of a pub doorbell as I stumbled in for a much-needed pint, a local pointing me down an overgrown path with a smile and a “You’ll love this bit.”
Walking the Cotswold Way was so much more than just a hike. It was a journey—and one I’ll treasure for the rest of my life.
If you’re dreaming of taking on this trail, whether next month or “one day,” this is your friendly guide to what it’s really like to walk the Cotswold Way. (And if you want every step mapped out, with my full daily itinerary, hotel recommendations, and insider tips, you can check out my detailed guide here!
As of now people are already booking accomodation early for 2026 so it’s time to get on it!
The Cotswold Way is a National Trail in southwest England that runs about 102 miles (164 km) from Chipping Campden to Bath.
The Cotswold Way is one of the official National Trails in the UK—a collection of long-distance paths specially designated for their natural beauty, cultural importance, and historical significance.
It travels through the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, famous for its rolling hills, ancient stone villages, sheep-dotted fields, and storybook scenery. Along the way, you’ll pass castles, battlefields, Neolithic burial grounds, and landscapes that look almost too beautiful to be real.
The Cotswold Way isn’t about speed; it’s about soaking it all in, one footstep at a time.
It feels like walking through a story book!
My Personal Journey Walking England’s Cotswold Way
In May 2024 I decided to walk the Cotswold Way.
Not to be dramatic here but it changed my life.
I was living in Oxford, England and was feeling stressed and overweight. I told my husband and he made me a detailed 4 month training plan. I started training and eating healthy. I fell in LOVE with walking. I lost 30 pounds before the hike and discovered a deep love of the countryside and walking.
Here’s the exact training program I followed.
This training isn’t easy, it’s demanding. But it made the walk itself so so so wonderful. I actually ended up walking 131 miles because I did all the extra side trips because I felt SO good.
How Long Does it Take to Walk the Cotswold Way?
Most people take between 7 and 10 days to complete the trail, though ultra-marathon types might tackle it faster.
👉 If you want to enjoy the journey—stopping for cream teas, castle visits, and long pub lunches—I highly recommend giving yourself around 10 days.
How long it takes to walk the Cotswold Way really depends on two things: how much you want to walk each day, and how much you want to explore beyond the trail itself.
Most people complete the Cotswold Way in 7 to 10 days.
If you’re aiming for a faster pace and don’t mind long walking days, you can finish in 7 or 8 days (averaging 13–16 miles per day).
If, like me, you want time to soak it all in—to wander through villages, visit castles, stop for leisurely lunches, and maybe sit on the occasional bench just to enjoy the view—you’ll want closer to 10 days.
I chose the slower, savor-everything route and walked the Cotswold Way over 10 days. And while the official trail itself is 102 miles, by the end of my journey, my GPS tracker showed that I had walked 131 miles total!
Why the extra miles? Well, one of the best parts of walking the Cotswold Way is that you’re never far from something worth detouring for. I ended up taking side trips to explore castles, historic sites, hilltop monuments, and of course, charming villages slightly off the main trail. I couldn’t resist visiting places like Sudeley Castle in Winchcombe and Horton Court, a beautiful medieval manor house—and every extra step was absolutely worth it.
A few things that added miles for me:
Wandering through towns like Painswick, Winchcombe, and Wotton-under-Edge
Taking scenic detours to castles and monuments
Walking to and from accommodations when they were a little off the official route
Exploring viewpoints and country pubs (priorities!)
So while the official distance is just over 100 miles, it’s good to plan for a little extra, especially if you’re anything like me and can’t resist a good side quest.
My advice:
Give yourself a bit of breathing room with your itinerary.
Build in time for side adventures—you’ll want it!
Remember, it’s not just about reaching Bath at the end; it’s about everything you experience along the way.
And honestly? Those extra miles ended up being some of the most magical parts of my trip.
Trust me: your feet (and your soul) will thank you.
How Difficult is the Cotswold Way?
The Cotswold Way is rated moderate. It’s not a technical trail—no scrambling or mountaineering required—but it’s hillier than you might expect.
Each day brings a mix of steep climbs, gentle fields, wooded paths, and the occasional rocky patch after rain. Some of those hills are no joke, but the good news? Every climb comes with a view worth the effort.
Quick facts:
Terrain: rolling hills, farm tracks, woodland, country roads
Elevation: over 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) of total ascent
Navigation: well-marked with the acorn symbol, but having a map or hiking app is smart (I used AllTrails app!)
Personally I had no issues. No blisters. No problems. I felt great everyday. And I know that is because I trained. And the training was fun! I also had these hiking boots which I highly recommend.
Best Time to Walk the Cotswold Way
While you can walk the trail year-round, spring and autumn are pure magic.
Spring (April–June): Fresh blooms, newborn lambs, longer days.
Summer (July–August): Warm, lush, but busier with tourists.
Winter (November–March): Quiet but muddy, with short daylight hours.
I walked in early October, and it felt like the landscape had turned into a painting—golden fields, rusty red trees, and soft mist hanging over the hills each morning.
What to Pack for Walking the Cotswold Way
Packing wisely makes a huge difference. You don’t need a giant pack weighing you down, but you do need a few essentials:
Start slow: Especially on the first couple of days—your body needs to adjust.
Use a luggage transfer: It’s worth every penny.
Don’t overpack: You’ll regret it by mile 50.
Plan snack stops: Some sections have long gaps without shops or cafes.
Enjoy the small moments: A friendly wave from a farmer, a field glowing in the late afternoon sun—these were my favorite memories.
TRAIN. Train ahead of time. I’ve seen too many videos and stories of people not having a good time because they just did it without training.
Cotswold Way Updates for 2026
Planning to walk the Cotswold Way in 2026? Here are a few updates to keep in mind:
🗓️ Events: The Cotswold Way Relay continues annually and may impact certain trail sections in June. A fun event
🛤️ Route Diversions: A few temporary and permanent trail diversions remain in place near areas like North Nibley, Tormarton, and Farfield Dursley. Always check the National Trails website before you walk for the most up-to-date route info.
🥾 Trail Surface Improvements: Several sections have been resurfaced to improve drainage, especially in previously muddy areas like Haresfield Beacon and Standish Woods.
📱 Navigation: While the trail is well-marked, summer overgrowth can hide signs—download a GPX file or use an app like OS Maps or AllTrails as a backup.
🛏️ Accommodation: With the Cotswold Way growing in popularity, many inns and B&Bs are booking up early for 2026—especially in towns like Winchcombe and Painswick. Book 3–6 months ahead when possible. to witness—or avoid if you prefer a quieter walk!
Final Thoughts: Why the Cotswold Way Stays With You
Walking the Cotswold Way isn’t just about covering miles. It’s about walking through layers of time, through stories written into the hills and stones. It’s about finding stillness in a noisy world, connecting to something bigger, slower, and somehow more real.
If you dream of a trip filled with beauty, history, and a good bit of muddy adventure, this is your sign.
And if you’d like even more help (like my detailed step-by-step itinerary, hotel and restaurant picks, packing lists, GPS downloads, and real-world advice), grab my paid guide here. It’s like having a friendly trail buddy right in your pocket.
