First of all I forgot to do a first week recap of total mileage on Wednesday, so here it is for one week and two days: I’ve walked 94 miles, haven’t kept track of the total ascent, but it’s a lot cause these cliffs are no joke. Here is the mapping of the route covered.
Now for today - it was AMAZING. Cornwall is just off the charts with beauty, interest, great people. Which were extra appreciated today because I slept awfully last night, or rather I didn’t sleep. I was cooooold in the tent (35F maybe?) probably because I forgot to put my mat down. Finally drifted off about 5am and had crazy dreams. Not a good rest for a long day.
But we did 10.2 miles in 6 hrs, took a couple shortcuts which not only saved time and energy, but enabled us to discover some wonderful surprises. Found a fairy garden (I could fill this page with the delightful photos I took. Could’ve stayed there all day, but we had to get a move on. Had a cup of tea at the National Trust Pentireglaze shop and walked on), and was stopped by a herd of cows that just would not budge off the field path. Didn’t get a photo because they were slightly intimidating and we were hustling to figure out a way out of the field over a big stone wall.
We started the day looking for breakfast in a quiet Padstow, caught the walk-on ferry to Rock and ate our breakfast baps. Walked to Lundy Bay and kept jaw dropping at the size of the surf. The path was easy, gentle ups and downs till the last few drops into Port Quinn and Port Isaac (location of fictional tv show Doc Martin). A gentle rain started, minimal breeze, but we didn’t mind because the flowers were beautiful (spring!!), the views were better and better around each turn, and we were making good time. My leg is improving, blisters are being held at bay (thanks to my Injiji toes socks, compeed balm and band aids, little toe sleeves and even more foot products I never knew existed! So far the whole procedure to protect my feet is working!).
We made it to our lovely Port Gaverne Hotel and had a drink, took showers, hand washed clothes, and have dinner reservations downstairs at 7pm. We are fully treating ourselves tonight! I’m tired in every way physically, but feeling calm, happy and quiet in spirit. I’m falling deeply in love with Cornwall, and soaking up all the British things that make me smile like the hot cross buns I bought this morning!
Morning in Padstow
