Had an incredible weekend exploring the Cotswolds. The rolling hills and stone villages never get old.

Started Saturday morning in Bourton-on-the-Water. The little bridges over the River Windrush were as charming as ever, even in February. Grabbed coffee at a local café and watched the ducks for a solid twenty minutes — sometimes you need that kind of morning.

Bibury & Arlington Row

Drove over to Bibury after lunch. Arlington Row is probably the most photographed street in England for good reason.

The 14th-century cottages look like something out of a storybook. Even with the grey February sky, the honey-colored stone just glows.

Sunday Hike

Sunday we tackled a portion of the Cotswold Way. About 8 miles through farmland and woods. Muddy, cold, absolutely worth it.

Route notes:

• Started at Broadway Tower (great views)
• Lunch stop in Stanton
• Finished at Stanway House
• Boots essential — very muddy this time of year

The pub at the end served the kind of Sunday roast that makes the whole hike worthwhile. Massive Yorkshire puddings, proper gravy, the works.

Already planning the next trip. Might do the northern section of the Way in spring when everything’s green.