Basecamp Lake District – get fit for free in 2009

Fight the festive flab in 2009 by gathering a gang of friends and decamping to the Lake District to try out Britain’s best “green gym.”

If you share the cost of a self-catering cottage there are some amazing cut-price deals to be had per person in the New Year.

The Lakes also offers the best walks, mountain biking, cycling and scenery which won’t cost you a penny.

All you need to bring is your boots and your bike to start burning off the calories in beautiful surroundings. One of the best locations to set up basecamp is Coniston – a bustling village with pubs, shops and on the shores of a spectacular five-mile long lake.

The village is also at the foot of some of the area’s best mountain ranges and from the centre you can take on mighty Coniston Old Man - which at 2,863ft is more than three times bigger than the biggest building in London’s Canary Wharf.

Alternatively, start yourself on some of the smaller nursery slopes in the area or try the lower level peaks like Wetherlam, Dow Crag and Tarn Hows.

For those with new bikes for Christmas, you can blitz the frosty lakeside paths or choose one of the multitiude of bridleways, quiet country lanes or hair-raising downhill rides.

Summitreks in the village specialises in canoe hire too so you can have a relaxing adventure on the crystal clear waters for just £17 for a half day or £24 for a full day.

If you need somewhere to stay the first port of call has to be the Coppermines and Lakes Cottages company which offers over 70 different cottages to stay - from luxurious retreats to rugged bases for fell walkers.

Offering cottages which sleep groups of four to six people and upto 30 makes it ideal for friends, families and groups.

As well as being a great place to getaway from it all, Coniston is one of the Lake District’s best villages for pubs, food and beer. But remember, you are here to get fit…

For a suggested weekend itinerary follow this link