Great Wall Discovery - China

The Great Wall of China was originally constructed to keep out nomadic tribes who raided China’s northern frontier. Our trekking challenge started in Jinshanling with a vigorous trek that loops along the mountains either side of the Gubeikou Gateway.

Each day we trekked approximately 12kms along the stony path, twisting and winding its way along the mountains, interspersed with crumbling watchtowers.

It was demanding but also very rewarding, particularly on clear days when we looked out at the vast and beautiful mountain ranges. Our imagination took us back several centuries to when the wall was the frontline defense of Imperial China.

On completion of our challenge we returned to Beijing to explore some of the many attractions of China’s capital city: the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven and the Lama Temple.

After eight days, we attended a celebratory Peking Duck Banquet, and awards were handed out to each trekker for their hard work.

The total raised by the group was £70,000.

Many thanks to all colleagues at GEKA and GEKA Germany for their support and generosity in raising money for Breast Cancer Campaign.