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Hammocking is the latest craze taking the world by storm here at IHUK. It’s as simple as it sounds- you get a hammock, find a couple of trees, tie each side up and bingo you’ve got your own little oasis of relaxation and mindfulness. Find the best hammocking spots here with the Hammocking and Hostelling guide page!
The best thing to me about hammocking is that it can be done almost anywhere. From nestled cosily in woodland to the somewhat fear-inspiring suspension over moving water to the extremes of hanging hundreds of metres over a ravine, anything goes. Hammocks are stackable too so you can bunk up just as you would in a hostel dorm! Whatever floats your boat – or should we say, hangs your hammock – the more imaginative the better. My favourite spots are several self-discovered places along the River Derwent, what better place to take five and chill out in the cool riverbank shade?
Hostels are fast catching on to the opportunity to provide their hammock-spaced wooded grounds for overnight stays. With the right equipment, spending the night in a hammock is easy, and surprisingly comfortable. It may even send you to sleep with the gentle rocking sensations.
And if you like being close to nature you can’t get much closer than in a hammock! Under the stars taking in the fresh air is a delight (providing it doesn’t rain of course…) but with just a little prep and a trusty tarp, hammocking can be enjoyed throughout the year. Nothing resets your circadian rhythm better than an evening outdoors.
Hammocking solo or with friends
A hammock trip can be enjoyed with friends or as a solo swinger, the choice is yours. I like to hammock at hostels as you get all the benefits of a hostel while still being able to get up in a tree! Breakfast after waking to the sunrise and then a stroll through the woods into town? Yes please. I’ve met a few fellow hammockers at hostels in my travels and they’ve been friendly and even shared some tips.
My biggest tip for hammockers is to take your time picking the best spot, once you’ve set up there’s all the time in the world to relax. But make sure you’re nice and comfy first and foremost. I hope that I’ve convinced you to give it a go, good luck and happy hammocking!