To celebrate the launch of its Peruvian Amarillo Chilli Sauce, Encona held a “Taste Tripping” blogger event sauce back in the summer with London-based Peruvian street food trader Julio Brujis of Panka Peruvian Food (panka.co.uk). I had a great time attending … and also participating in a fun little “llama limerick” competition put on by Encona and offering a prize trip for two up for a llama trek in the Lake District to the poet with whose limerick was deemed best.
Yeah, llama trekking in England. Hey, why not? And guess who won that limerick competition?!? Yep. Yours truly.
Wanna read my rhyme? Of course you do.
There was a young llama from Peru
Who hoped to go trekking with you. He wrote a nice rhyme
And had such a great time
That he said “hey bai, can I be your long necked wooly bully quinoa crunchin’ boo?”
I was finally able to redeem my prize a couple of weeks ago; apparently llama trekking is a super popular summertime activity as much of July and the whole of August were fully booked. Kemey and I heading up to Penrith on the train and made a relaxing weekend out of the opportunity.
Our trek was with Lakeland Llama Treks. I loved every second of the experience and would highly recommend it (and the pros at Lakeland) to anyone. I had no idea taking a walk with a couple of llamas would be so amazing. Both Kemey and I led a llama each on a scenic stroll from the Llama’s Pyjamas B&B to nearby Brougham Castle (and back). Domesticated by the Incas some 4,000 years ago and a lot cuddlier than you might imagine, they are a pleasure to be around and are as calm as they are calming.
Find out more at lakelandllamatreks.co.uk.
When not hiking around with llamas, we had a great time exploring the northern bit of the Lake District around Penrith.
Dinner at the Beehive Inn in the quiet village of Eamont Bridge was lovely – and the staff could not have been any more welcoming or accommodating Great burgers too! beehiveinnpenrith.co.uk
A round trip steamboat cruise on Ullswater (with a stop off for a woodland stroll around Glenridding) was idyllic as well: ullswater-steamers.co.uk
Oh and that new Peruvian hot sauce from Encona? It’s tasty – and really has a kick (unlike docile llamas). But for all its fire, it’s equally flavoursome. Look for it at your local food store and find out more at enconasauces.co.uk.
