Treated ourselves to a taxi today as it was going to be a double bus fare day and this would have amounted to the same overall cost. We had a fabulous driver who regaled us with Welsh stories all the way – many laughs to start off the day.
It was an easy enough path along the coastline at Southerndown but sadly there was no way across the river – so a trek up the estuary it was .. what’s an extra 4 miles between friends.
It was raining today, a completely different weather day to yesterday. And it persisted.
As had been advised, we reached the river crossing point at the magnificent site of Ogmore Castle, an early 12th Century fortress, built to guard Glamorgan against attacks from the Welsh-held West. Here we had the delight of crossing the ancient stepping stones – slightly precarious but we all managed without a topple.
Then we crossed the bridge into the extremely picturesque village of Merthyr Mawr. The roads had been closed to cars but they allowed us humble walkers through. All very exciting as the village was set up for filming – film crews, vintage cars, film set designs and a large gang of security people all looking rather important. Despite questioning a few of them they were not giving away any information as to what what was being filmed … obviously a period drama of some sort – dying to find out.
From here we entered the famous Merthyr Mawl sand dunes, partly woodland – they are the second highest in Europe and quite fabulous. Not to grumble but the sand was soft and deep in places so progress was slow but we all made it out in one piece. And from the soft sand we moved on to beach walking where the sand was a little wet – we left deep footprints as we wound our way back to Porthcawl.
It was still raining as we arrived – 10 rambling miles today.
p.s. I’m going to attempt to post this on Facebook as I always do but my last two blogs have been removed as apparently have tried to gather sensitive information from others … it’s a complete mystery!!
p.p.s. I’m struggling to upload photos for some reason – when I get back to MK I need to get some help from a young person!!
Up with the lark at 6.30am (well not me, I’m always last up) to prepare ourselves for our 13 mile walk … this is how we holiday!! Getting quite slick with our logistics now so drove to Southerndown, parked up and within minutes our trusty bus arrived. Slight mystery though as we had to pay for two tickets each as the service changed midway. So, one bus, one driver but two fares as the same bus that we sat on throughout changed from the 303 to the 304 – weird. The narrowest of country roads with many a stand off but we arrived in Gileston without a scratch.
The area was familiar to us from yesterday and we wandered down to where we knew the coastal path started. We’d had some indication from a walking couple yesterday that some of the path might be closed … Steve however insisted that he could use his nose and work it all out (size of nose jokes ensued). He also felt confident that his OS app would see us through so no need to panic – leading to more laughs about Steve being ‘App Man’ – he can switch from Co-op app to OS app in the blink of an eye. Anyway, David J had his trusty OS map and that could never fail us.
We found the path and we got off to a great start. Beautiful weather today, blue sky with a little wind to keep us cool. Stunning scenery from the off. We were walking and chatting our way up a pretty robust path when we were literally attacked verbally by an angry farm lady who came at us full barrels – “there’s a ‘keep to the footpath’ sign, can’t you read?” She was accompanied by two loudly barking dogs – they were only labradors but there was no way they were going to let us pass by her property. All five of us were so shocked by her outburst that we meekly turned back. We had missed an obscure makeshift sign that indicated a temporary and overgrown path to the left – it took us in a small circle for about 5 minutes and then back on to the path we had just come off. At every opening the dogs stood and barked – what a friendly homestead.
We walked from this point over a number of farm fields where no paths had been left for walkers, despite it being a public footpath – presumably the same farmer – boy, her ears must have been burning. Also we had to walk through a tunnel of brambles and nettles, the worst we have ever experienced – blood was drawn. That was her fault too. We discussed going back to say our piece … maybe another time!
A bit of beach walking too – the large pebble variety, that was interesting. Plenty of driftwood for makeshift walking poles – as usual I had left my walking pole in the boot of the car.
And then the dreaded sign appeared – ‘Path Closed due to Cliff Erosion.’ The trouble was that the only thing we could have done was to go back through the vicious brambles, back along the non-existent farm field paths, back to the barking dogs and crazy angry woman – well, basically back to the start. Team talk time – we decided to use all our gumption and sneak round the barrier and see what the closed off section was like. I know, we’re very naughty. It was about 100 yards section and about one yard of it was pretty close to the edge, but completely manageable. So much so that we went on to pass two other groups of walkers and we suggested that they could ignore the diversion too – praying that we don’t hear on the local news about some cliff fallers.
The walk just got better and better. Mostly cliff top with stunning views, numerous inclines and descents of course, woods, more pebbles, farm fields, cows and sheep – all wonderful. And I have to say, a very generous route for cafes and toilets – a rambler’s dream.
We had coffee at Llantwit Major and then walked on to admire the spectacle of St. Donat’s Castle. Our picnic spot for today was at Nash Point near the picturesque lighthouse. So much to enjoy on today’s ramble … and we passed many rambling groups too with whom we exchanged stories. Then, nearing the end we were able to visit the walled gardens of Dunraven Castle, dating back to 1543 – worth a stop off.
A final big trudge up yet another hill, brought us back to our destination at Southerndown. En route we completed our blackberry picking, essential ingredient for Steve’s promised blackberry crumble – if only our airbnb had sufficient dishes … I’m sure we’ll improvise.
13 miles today – it was a walk I’d highly recommend … but just beware of the Angry Woman!!
The Wales Walking gang setting off from Cardiff station
Yes, we’re back on that Coastal Path and once again accompanied by our very lovely friends – David Rose, Ros Crawley and David Jockel. We’re staying in airbnb’s and planning to walk each day over the next couple of weeks to move further along the South Wales coastline. It seems they must like us because they’ve come back for more. Quite incredible!!
For the first week, we’re based in Porthcawl – a pretty little cottage, not the best equipped but it does the job. And it’s near a beautiful beach.
Today we were up bright and early, drove to Barry Island and caught the train to Cardiff. Lovely train ride to start the day’s adventure. We were pretty wrapped up as the weather was damp and overcast … but nothing dampened our spirits as this was the first day and we were full of expectation.
We’d had experience of walking from Cardiff (walking in the other direction) and recalled the lack of coastal path signage, so we were super careful of heading in the right direction this time. We had the delight of wandering alongside a pea green canal, horribly littered too but still with elegant swans gliding along and herons perching alongside.
But things got better and better. Interesting to see different parts of the city and then a pretty sizeable hill climb took us up to cliff tops and sea views, from time to time lurching into woodland walking. The day got warmer and warmer too and the layers were removed one be one.
Lots of walking and talking today – the very best way to do it … it’s all about distraction. Along the narrow woodland paths there was an abundance of berries. Huge succulent blackberries there for the picking. I could feel Steve twitching to get at them to add to his winter stock. There was also elderberries, rose hip and sloes. Ros was so informative about methods of making wines, cordials, gin and syrups – I need to get foraging.
About half way through (or so we thought), we reached Penarth Beach with its very pretty and well maintained pier, so there was a group decision to stop for our picnic lunch. With gay abandon we tucked into our chicken and avocado sandwiches – such sophistication.
Picnic spot – day one
And so we continued on our way.
How we all dream of our wildlife section of the garden to be … a week after we sow the seeds!!! The kissing gate tradition continues. xxxx
Unfortunately, the last few miles saw us strolling back to Barry Island, via Barry and via Barry Docks, along a busy ‘A’ road, so not the most inspiring. The fact that what we’d estimated it to be a 12 mile walk and the reality was that it was a 15 mile walk led to even more weariness. But you know us, we didn’t grumble!!
Barry Island had livened up a bit by this time, with waltzers, rollercoasters and screaming in full force, kids making the most of their last bit of freedom before the new school year began. We would have joined in but we were dizzy enough from the excitement of a day on the path.
From here it was home for recovery and … Coq Au Vin on the menu tonight … it was absolutely scrumptious.
Tuesday 3rd September 2024
Day 2 – Barry Island to Gilestone
We left home at 8am and reached Barry Island at 10.30am, having driven and parked up in Gilestone, then literally a run up the hill to the bus, catching it in the nick of time. Luckily there were a few good sprinters amongst us!! A minute or two later would have seen us hanging around for another hour. So all went like clockwork.
And it was a sunny day today – blue sky and a fresh wind, just perfect for walking. The clamminess of yesterday had passed.
A wonderful day of scenery again today – beaches, woodlands, cliff tops, fascinating rock formations, roman ruins and even a power station! Quite a few hills to climb I must say and the downhill slopes and steps to go with it. But nothing slippy, slimy or treacherous, so all good.
Roman ruins
Another great day of walking and half of yesterday’s mileage – 7.5 miles. Nothing outrageous to report. We have considered making some things up and the ideas included falls off the pier, daring do rescues, shark attacks, buried treasure and pirates, dinosaur prints and a gigantic race of seagulls taking over the world. But who’d believe us?
What did happen though is that 4 out of the 5 of us went swimming when we got back to Porthcawl and it was great – warm and wavy and loads of fun. We have photos to prove it.
Valley to Trearddur (it’s so hard to say Trearddur … with its rolling ‘r’ and ‘dd’ being pronounced as ‘th’)!! – 11 miles of walking
I was talking to Tom on the phone, while this photo was taken on Silver Bay Beach – about half way.
No trains or buses needed today as we set off from Valley for our 11 mile ramble to Trearddur. We knew that the first half particularly was lowland, so we had mentally prepared ourselves for a muddy day. Just about spotted the ‘hole in the wall’ start to the Coastal Path and once inside, so did the squelching begin.
The hole in the wall that led us on to the Coastal Path
So for the next few miles we manoeuvred our way along muddy paths and beaches but took it all in our stride as once again we had fabulous views and perfect weather. We were also treated to a series of ‘boardwalks’ which had obviously been placed over the worst parts. Bless you Alexander Boardman for inventing the boardwalk – you were a genius and today you were our saviour.
Someone had kindly indicated an alternative path along the beachWe love a boardwalkFabulous views, despite the mud! Looking at Holyhead Mountain – yesterday’s climb!
We reached ‘Four Mile Bridge’ which is clearly not 4 miles long – having now researched we know that it is so named because it is 4 miles from the town of Holyhead. It links the main island of Anglesey to the island of Holyhead.
Four Mile Bridge
The immediate path off the bridge looked a little treacherous, with it being both narrow and blocked … I could see a wet experience ahead. However, once there, it was a little wider than initially thought, and our Sherpa David beat out a path behind the boat so that we didn’t have to swim around or climb over.
At this point I was saying to Steve “are you sure about this!?”Where there’s a will there’s a way!
This narrow path path led on to some woodland with beautiful bluebells on display.
Then we found ourselves on the most magnificent beach in Silver Bay … with its golden sands and the sea unbelievably calm. We chose this perfect spot for our picnic lunch and got chatting to a chap that had come down from his caravan to swim, he swims most days. He reassured us that it is not always like this, more often it is windy and the sea choppy – we truly have been blessed with the weather.
Silver Bay BeachSensibly reapplying sun creamChatting to Tom while being photographed on Silver Bay BeachOur new friend
We were treated to some amazing air displays during the walk today, both helicopters and trainer jets from RAF Valley. Our very own Air Show – spectacular.
Pork sandwiches and crisps consumed, we continued on our way. Higher ground now so less muddy … with a few hills thrown in. Wonderful views of Snowdonia in the distance and once again, a stunning collection of coves, sandy beaches and cliff faces. Overwhelming beauty at times – feel so privileged to experience it.
Snowdonia views in the distanceThen, further on, back to the views of Holyhead MountainGreat balancing skills
Then finally, after 11 glorious miles, we reached the beautiful beach in Trearddur Bay – the end of the road for us. This saw Steve and I complete our walk of the whole of Anglesey and Holyhead – David kindly bought us beers to celebrate, in Oceans Edge bar/restaurant, overlooking the beach on what felt like a summer’s day.
Trearddur Bay BeachCelebratory beers – completing the Coastal Path of Anglesey and Holyhead!
Then it was the bus back to Valley and to save us extra walking, we made the decision to stop off in the pub for a couple of beers and an early dinner, rather than go home, get changed and come back out. BIG mistake but loads of fun. A few beers waiting for the carvery to open, a huge plate of carvery … more beers and wine … and a very giggly and wobbly walk back home!!
And so, that’s a wrap for now and I’d like to thank Steve and David for helping me through some of the more trickier parts and for keeping me motivated to continue being a ‘Rambling Rose.’
80 more miles of coastal walking clocked up on this trip, (a little less for me) so we’re chipping it off. And after a dodgy start, it has to be said that this is one of our favourite sections so far. Wales is wonderful and Holyhead particularly is a real hidden gem – most definitely worth the drive up.
Mr. Rose and Mr. Rose …it’s a Goodbye from him and a goodbye from him and a Goodbye from me!!
Who put a mountain in the middle of a Coastal Path walk!? We knew that Holyhead Mountain was lurking on one of the island walks but when you’re there, it’s pretty tough, thrown into the mixture of a 12-mile trek. Today was the day it had to be done!!
Leaving Holyhead … again!!
Wednesday 23rd April 2024
Holyhead to Trearddur – 12 miles
Up and out a bit earlier today to catch the train to Holyhead. Valley is a request stop so we nominated David to flag the train down, as we were the only passengers on the station platform. On arrival, we made our way over Holyhead’s quite magnificent bridge to a cafe named “Holly Molly” and tucked into rather delightful breakfasts and mugs of tea. Then we were ready for the off.
David flagging down the train as Valley is a request stopThe striking bridge in HolyheadSaid breakfast, setting Steve and David up for the day – mine was somewhat smaller!!
Picked up the coastal path signs quite easily and the first couple of miles were pretty plain sailing – all was well in our world. Yet another fair weather day – just can’t believe our luck. Gradually there was a sense of climbing but the paths were so accommodating that it wasn’t a struggle. There was a certain amount of winding around the mountain rather than steep ascents so still didn’t foresee any difficulty. And the views were to die for, wouldn’t want to have missed this.
A little relax before the climb.The South Stack Lighthouse
However, as we got further up the 722 ft climb it got steeper and rockier underfoot and the same with the downhill sections. So I must admit to struggling somewhat on the top half of the mountain. Even with my trusty walking pole, I seem to have got more wobbly on these trickier terrains and my diminishing confidence results in me being slower. Steve and David don’t mind waiting for me or giving me a supporting hand from time to time but I do feel sad about not being such a capable rambler anymore.
Holyhead Mountain has diverse ecology and several sites of historical significance – there were numerous other walkers exploring its rugged paths. Many visitors come to see the South Stack Lighthouse and also the variety of birds that nest along the cliff faces. We were looking out for puffins and stonechats as well as seals and dolphins but didn’t see any of those. We did see a couple of small lizards but luckily not the snakes that had been mentioned as a possibility. And we also saw some Oystercatchers.
Oystercatchers
When we reached the bottom of the mountain we had 5 miles in the bag, and it seemed like the next 7 miles would be a breeze! I’m not going to grumble because it was beautiful – we were so spoilt with the blue skies, the turquoise seas shimmering in the sun, the dramatic cliffs and sandy coves … but a breeze it wasn’t. It was 7 miles of significant ups and downs in places, not on the mountain scale but certainly not flat. But I wouldn’t have missed it for the world (I can safely say that now I’m back home sitting in an armchair)!
Finally saw a F35B Lightning Fighter Jet
Along the way we saw many people kayaking, young and old, as well as a group of youngsters being taught to do abseiling and coast steering. And as we neared Trearddur Bay there were several beaches of outstanding beauty.
KayakingCoast steeringAbseilingAnd finally we reached the beautiful Trearddur Bay Beach
Despite my own limitations, I would wholeheartedly say that today was yes, one of the tougher of days, but it was also the most magnificent in terms of scenery. So, if you are a walker and you’ve not visited this part of Anglesey, I would certainly recommend that you put it on your list.
It was a mountain of a day but now feeling mellow with a glass of red wine in Valley, watching the sun go down … and there it is in the distance – that’s the brute that is Holyhead Mountain.
From our house in Valley, we watched the sun set on Holyhead Mountain
Like yesterday, today’s plan was to catch a bus and walk back to Valley – this time from a different direction. Our first mission was to find the bus stop in Valley and this ended up being a 2 mile wander until we found somewhere to stand in hope that the number 61 would stop to pick us up – this being the one daily bus going in that direction. Success, the driver stopped, although didn’t seem over impressed with me speaking in English. After an incredibly hairy ride along several of the narrowest country lanes, where the driver was definitely not taking any prisoners, we disembarked roughly near Porth Swtan and headed off to find the coastal path. This turned out to be another 2 mile walk. So before we even started our official coastal path mileage, we had walked 4 miles … we like to call them ‘bonus’ miles! Sadly there was nowhere open for coffee and cake … and this haunted us the whole day.
No evidence of this being a bus stop but we waited in hope – there was one bus a day at 11.44am!
And so we set off on the officially signed path – great signage today, didn’t get lost once. It was one of those undulating sort of days, enough ups and downs to keep you interested but nothing too dramatic. A mixture of terrain too – country and cliff top paths, tarmac lanes, farm fields, caravan parks, sand dunes, as well as stretches of beach – sand and pebbles. All pretty pleasant.
Finally, after 4 bonus miles, found ourselves on the Coast Path at Porth SwtanJohn, Paul, George or Ringo?Probably not recycling!?Holyhead to Dublin in 3.5 hours
The weather was a little nippy today with chill winds so we were wrapped up. Three miles in we decided to stop for our picnic lunch as time was getting on. We found a sheltered spot on a pretty beach and tucked in – so wishing we had brought a hot drink with us. When another couple arrived and set up their picnic spot nearby, we were SO envious of their huge flask of coffee – we were positively drooling.
We set off feeling re-energised and not long after the sun began to peep through the clouds. We just can’t believe how lucky we’ve been with the weather – some friends of ours experienced a whole different climate a couple of weeks ago. Traipsed our way through fields of baby lambs that just melt your heart. Talked about identifying birdsong … but the seagull was about the best we could do! We did however manage to identify the roars of the F35 fighter jets flying over, even though we couldn’t see them.
A bridge too far?Think these swans may have been nesting
Started to feel a little weary as the miles clocked up and unfortunately the last couple of miles were spent wading through mud again. The mild climate has definitely improved the ground but there’s definitely still some squelchy bits around. Had a long section of balancing on logs, clinging to the fence but still managing to sink into it occasionally … my trusty walking pole kept me upright however.
Then finally Valley was in sight and we wound our weary way around the village to our oh so comfortable accommodation. It was muddy boots and socks off and kettle on. After the official 10 miles of Coastal Path covered, plus our bonus 4 miles pre-path, 14 miles walking today deserved lashings of tea and biscuits. It felt good to be back in Valley.
No, we didn’t walk Marathon mileage today, but we did set off late morning so that we could see the start of the London Marathon on the TV, and we made it a short walk in order to be back to watch the finishers – we all had several friends running it today.
We’re staying in the village of Valley in North Anglesey, logistically planned for our walk around the coast of Holyhead (otherwise known as Holy Island).
Our new accommodation in Valley, North Anglesey – great views
Again it was all three Roses – Steve, David and myself – a right bunch!! We planned to get a train to Holyhead but there was a replacement bus service, which worked super nicely, particularly as it was free. And on arriving at the busy Ferry Terminal, there was just one thing to do before setting off – coffee and cake. It’s tough!
Impressive views of the Irish ferries as we left to start our walk along the estuary coastline, taking us through Penrhos Coastal Park. The beautiful woodland promised viewings of red squirrels but despite cricking necks, not a bushy tail was seen. There were minimal inclines today – it was a manageable and pleasant walk with perfect weather. While we had all the walking gear on, we passed many casually dressed Sunday strollers – must have thought that I was a real weirdo with a walking pole – I’m just not taking any chances ever again! It was mostly single track walking so we took it in turns to be the ‘pacer’ in true Marathon fashion.
And literally 300 yards before the end, just when we imagined arriving back with spotless boots, we hit a muddy cow field – but still nothing in comparison to earlier days so hardly worth a grumble. Just short of 5 miles today – a walk in the park.
Said muddy cow field, near home
And now we are back in our lovely accommodation, enjoying tea and biscuits, and scanning the sectioned TV screen, trying to catch sight of those green Redway Runners’ T-shirts, as well as our friends in their Charity T-Shirts, crossing that famous finish line.
The London Marathon finish line.
Congratulations everyone!
And back to yesterday: Saturday 20th April 2024
We checked out of our stunning accommodation in Abersoch (early) in order to drive to Pwllheli for the parkrun. The most stunning of parkruns but one of the hardest too as it’s running on soft sand and pebbles. We all found it hard and definitely zero chance of a PB. Rewarded ourselves with a full Welsh Breakfast afterwards, as you do.
Pwllheli Beach – it doesn’t come more tranquil than this.This is what we were running on though – tough going!
Drove up to Anglesey and then on to Holyhead – spent a couple of hours relaxing on the beautiful beach at Trearddur Bay – you see it’s not all hard work – before checking into our new accommodation in Valley.
Trearddur BayEven had a paddle
And the day before that: Friday 19th April 2024
While David did an admirable 18 mile coastal walk from Llanbedrog to Criccieth, Steve and I on the other hand had a leisurely morning and an indulgent lunch at The Sandbar restaurant on Abersoch beach. The weather was absolutely stunning, so much sunshine. We just had to finish the day off with a couple of beers at The Vaynol pub, watching the sun go down.
Views from the Sandbar restaurant, Abersoch BeachA cheeky couple of Friday night beers!
So all in all the last few days have been wonderfully relaxed – with a little bit of running and walking thrown in. Now this feels like holiday.
So I jumped back in today and joined Steve on the coastal path – the final bit we needed to do on the Llyn Peninsula – hoping beyond hope that I’d made the right decision. That is the trickiness though – you just don’t know until you get there. And we were joined for the majority of it by our buddy, David Rose. This meant we could park David’s car in the Hell’s Mouth car park and be able to use ours when we returned to Abersoch where we’re staying. With the sun shining and blue skies we keenly set off in our walking shorts, ready for the adventure ahead.
I can safely report that it wasn’t disappointing, in fact it was the BEST day of coastal walking I’ve done in such a long time. It completely restored my faith … and my confidence. This time I remembered to bring my walking pole so for the odd bits of mud and downhill slopes we encountered it made such a difference. On the whole though, the ground was so much drier, hardly a slip hazard in sight – bliss.
Sometimes previous walkers leave us with a little help ….The remote controlled kind …
The route was a series of stunning beaches, views a-plenty. Some significant climbs it has to be said and a small amount of narrow paths on cliff edge but as long as it’s not slippery I can cope with that. And the two men were always there to give me a hand! There were large parts where we could walk three abreast and chat about life and politics … oh, and about animal poo!!
We stopped about half way for our picnic lunch – David is having a good influence on Steve in terms of stopping for sustenance. We spotted a great bench that was clearly for someone who had long legs … David and I just had to dangle ours! We were joined by several sheep and lambs who seemed fascinated by our egg sandwiches and made us feel guilty with their piercing stares. When Steve dropped a piece of banana there was practically an avalanche of them. Who would have thought? And as we walked away a couple of them followed us – clearly getting bored with their diet of grass.
As I walked today, I was reflecting on a little book I’m reading, given to be my lovely chum Anne – it’s entitled ‘Mindful thoughts for Walkers.’ I was following their advice about being mindful, getting into a rhythm and breathing, listening to sounds, being aware of the smells, just appreciating the nature around us and being present. So therapeutic. It’s a great little book based on Buddhist philosophy.
About a mile out of Absersoch we parted company with David as he was walking on to Llanbedrog (we had already covered that section). Steve and I walked the last bit along the beach which is always a beautiful way to finish.
More house envy
And rounded it all off with coffee and yummy cake back in the village before setting off in our car to collect David and return him to his parked car. Eventually we all end up back in our accommodation, now showered and revived … the men are snoozing while I reflect on the day for our blog.
I can wholeheartedly say that today’s walk was “FAB-U-LOUS” – 8.5 miles of loveliness. I think that’s me back in … for now!
Travelling alone again today and probably a good decision with there being plenty of climbing and oodles of mud along the thirteen plus miles and five hours. This did though enable Dee to drop me off at the start and meet me at the end of the walk.
Leaving Aberdaron at 9.30am with still a chill in the air, the first couple of miles were through farmland before reaching the first of several huge climbs. This meant though the views were incredible in both directions and the bright clear weather helped despite the rather strong winds!
Other than shedloads of mud today I also spotted a few flowers including this magnificent display of Bluebells, in a woodland with a stream running alongside, spectacular!!
Interesting seeing various signs along the way and this one covers off most jobs including ‘knapsack spraying’ …. I have absolutely no idea?
Normally I travel light, meaning no bags / food etc but today I had a change of plan and it’s fair to say that eating lunch with this view was pretty special.
Porth Neigwl is referred to in English as Hell’s Mouth, reflecting the dangers to shipping along this part of the coast. One of the most famous disasters being the sinking of ‘The Twelve Apostles’ which caused a lot of comment!
Tomorrow we complete the Llyn Peninsula with a walk from Porth Neigwl to Abersoch and I’m being joined by Dee and our good friend ‘Rose The Younger’ aka David Rose, so it’ll be nice to have company and we might, just might, have a beer on arriving back in town.
Another day on the coast path and a complete change of weather, with lots of the mud drying and easier conditions underfoot. Still a small matter of hills and a mighty wind to contend with but the incredible sea views, coves and beaches more than made up for this!
Today was just ‘Billy no mates’ venturing out as Dee had quite rightly decided not to partake because of the aforementioned mudfest that we had seen the day before. The plan for today’s route of 15 miles, included a small section of path actually on the beach, with high tides expected a path closure across the beach was probably for the best!
Lots of good things to report today, in no particular order:-
Plenty of coastal path signs, lots of downhills (of course lots of uphills as well), awesome views, a few other walkers on the path, amazing weather albeit a tad windy (cobwebs defo blown away) and top of the list was Dee being able to track the walk on Garmin, enabling her to co-ordinate meeting me at the end with sandwiches, cakes and drinks!
Can you spot the coastal path … it goes either up and down (generally) or occasionally round all these lovely inclines!
Always a memorial along the path and today’s two feature ‘The view for Leo” being just a sign, so I assume Leo stood here rather than sitting. This was made up for though a little later when a white painted bench came into sight but there was no plaque?
Most of the focus on pictures today revolves around sea views, a feature of coastal path walking is getting so many photo opportunities. All of these are taken with my phone, as I’d made the decision to travel light today which seemed a good decision as apparently there are Banjo’s locally?
Two more days of walking on The Llyn Peninsula before we move onto Holyhead next week for more walking exploits!
