Cockles and Cockerham

January 22, 2025March 18, 2025 / Dee and Steve / Leave a comment

Wednesday 22nd January 2025

An altogether much brighter day – started in rain but ended with some blue sky and the sun trying to pop his head through the clouds – we’ll take that, so much better than yesterday. We started off walking from Knott-End-on-Sea, a pretty seaside village although somewhat deserted. Lowry used to sketch here, it was a great inspiration to him. So we had to get a photo by his sculpture – forever the tourists!

We quickly picked up the sea wall path and it was such a treat to find it was tarmac, no squelchy mud thus far. There was a huge expanse of sand on the beach and we’re guessing the sea was there somewhere but was shrouded in mist. Some smart coastal properties too but their signage was well and truly letting us know that this foreshore was private property.

The sea wall came to an end after 3 miles and at this point we got chatting to a couple of cockle pickers who had just returned on their quad bikes, bringing in bags of cockles. They were a jolly pair too and were delighted to share all their cockle picking expertise – shame we missed a photo opportunity! As we left them, Steve started reciting: “I’m not a cockle picker nor a cockle picker’s mate, I’m only picking cockles cos the cockle picker’s late.” Well, I could not get that rhyme out of my head for the rest of the day!!

We picked up a country lane now so again pleasant walking for a few miles – we were using our OS app to follow the Lancashire Coastal Way. Surprisingly it took us onto a fairly major road (we found out later that the rest of the sea wall is closed off for construction). There was no pavement on this road and cars were whizzing past at 70mph – not idyllic rambling conditions. So, after a mile, Steve worked out a detour on to some country lanes that would circle around to where our car was parked. It was a huge agricultural area, both livestock and arable – not seaside but still interesting. It did however add another 1.5 miles onto the walk but we decided it was worth it for stress and safety reasons. And as the weather cleared we were just about able to see the mountains of the Lake District in the distance.

We ended our trek in another lovely village, Cockerham, where our flask of hot chocolate was waiting for us in the car! The thought of it had kept me going those 9.5 miles. But today we’d had no mud and no wind … it was a good day.

Now home for cockles … or is it curry!?

OAPs let loose in Lancashire!

January 21, 2025March 18, 2025 / Dee and Steve / Leave a comment

Saturday 18th January – Monday 20th January 2025

After a fabulous two night stay with Alice and Jon in Lymm, we drove up to Lancaster on Saturday afternoon for a week’s house-sitting assignment. The house owners, Paul and William were off to Gran Canaria for a break and leaving us in charge of their stunningly stylish Victorian residence and their two wonderful moggies, Monty and Kit. We spent a great evening with Paul and William before they flew out the next morning – a deliciously home-cooked meal and the most perfect company. We’ve fallen in love with Monty and Kit who are 4 years old and brother and sister. They lay cuddling each other for hours each evening and love to wash each other … and they have the odd scrap too!!

We spent Sunday settling in and exploring the interesting city of Lancaster. We walked up to the Castle and the Priory and discovered the history of its prisons and the stories of the Pendle Witches. The city is steeped in history and has the most spectacular architecture. There is also a vibrant University student life here so quite a contrast to its Roman and Medieval past. Always great to discover a different city.

So Monday was our first day of walking and by use of car and bus we made our way to Fleetwood, to walk the Wyre Estuary. If the ferry had been operating we could have saved ourselves a lot of time and effort – it might have been cheating but we were sorely tempted … then the decision was taken out of our hands, it’s in for repair. Treated ourselves to a bacon ‘barm’ and a mug of hot tea in the ferry cafe instead.

Overall not a day to write home about – it was cold, grey and drizzly and estuary walking is never glamorous. The first side of the estuary was 4 miles of busy roadside then a mostly manageable path. One section of it did have a ‘No Access’ sign but apparently that doesn’t apply to us!!!! The ‘health and safety’ aspect of heavy machinery did not worry Steve a jot, especially as no alternatives were provided. So, when we reached the digger, we skirted around it on the soggy mud flats and gave the digger driver a cheeky wave – he didn’t seem perturbed. The path got somewhat wetter between here and Skippool where we had parked the car, but we waded our way through. And, despite there being some stunning properties, it was like a boat graveyard, amazing vessels just seemingly left to rot.

Back at the car we warmed ourselves up from our flask of hot chocolate and tucked into sausage rolls and sarnies, heater full blast. Feeling rejuvenated, we talked ourselves into tackling the other side of the estuary, rather than come back to do it tomorrow. Seemed like a good idea at the time.

In reality it was pretty grim. We were SO cold when we got out and our clothes were so damp. After a small stretch of roadside we hit the worst terrain of the day – ’twas the mud flats – that sinky, boggy sort of rambling that appeals to no-one! But it was just a couple of miles of that and then we were on to lovely country lanes. Later there was a section of very high and incredibly slippery embankment walls – boy I was smug to have my walking pole – it would have got very messy without! Then more country lanes, a golf course and and an easy path into the lovely town of Knotts-End-on-sea.

And we’d racked up 15 Miles – not a bad effort at all. It’s weird though, the colder and wetter it is, the faster Steve walks (and I try my best to keep up) – so it becomes a physical exercise rather than a sightseeing stroll. But it was a section that just needed to be done and hopefully it will get a little more scenic over the next few days, despite the unpromising weather!

The best part about the day though was the buses – the Lancashire buses are fabulously comfortable and warm and the drivers uber friendly. Our timing was perfect to catch both the buses, no waiting. And … I got to use my newly acquired bus pass – so finally I’ve found some benefit to being a golden oldie!!

Malaga storms and bamboo wigwams …

November 15, 2024 / Dee and Steve / Leave a comment

Friday 15th November 2024

We survived the storms!!

It was a little scary for 24 hours, particularly in light of what happened in Valencia so recently. I think the authorities reacted strongly because of that, sending out alerts with loud alarms to Spanish phones, advising no travel and listing closures. Trouble was, being holidaymakers we didn’t get the alerts and the severity of it all only really hit home as we were traveling by train to Malaga – our thought process being that we might as well spend a wet day dodging in and out of museums, galleries and cafes. We thought the train was pretty quiet and the streets of Malaga too, then we discovered most things were closed down. So it was an incredibly brief visit … as the volume of rain started to increase it dawned on us that perhaps our apartment was the safest bet. We must have got what was one of the last trains back to Benalmadena before the train service shut down for 24 hours – lucky us! And so it was an afternoon indoors, listening to the crashes of thunder and lightening … and the volume of rain was quite phenomenal.

There’ve been piles of bamboo washed up on the shoreline since we arrived 2 weeks ago – we were initially mystified but found out that it had been washed down the rivers from the mountains in last month’s storms. It’s been joyous seeing the kids using it to construct wigwams and beach houses – all shapes and sizes – quite a competition, makes a change from sandcastles! Last week there was a massive clean up campaign and the beaches tidied. But now, it’s all back … at least the kids will be delighted.

On Sunday we took part in the Feungirola 5k race, whilst others chose to do a half marathon! Although it was hot it was a relatively flat course so quite enjoyable. Particularly enjoyable as the course came up short … 4.3k … such a wonderful surprise to stumble upon the Finish Line when you least expect it!!

*I’m famous – made it to the official site*

The rest of the week has been fairly leisurely although Steve has been training for the Benalmadena Half Marathon on 24th. I’ve settled for speed walking. On Saturday, while Steve, basking in the glory of Wycombe Wanderers being top of the league, watched their match, I took myself off for a long walk along the Benalmadena coastline … 5 jaunty miles in total with a little swim in between. Some stunning and secluded beaches along this stretch and the sea is wonderfully clear.

We’ve met up with Julie, Martin and Annie (& friends) a few times – for runs and coffee. Lovely to have some local expertise out here.

We’ve continued to explore some local areas – love the old town of Fuengirola with its pretty squares, churches, bars, cafes and restaurants. Definitely worth diving into these streets off the main beach area.

Yesterday we took a bus ride up the winding steep hill to Benalmadena Pueblo – this is a favourite spot of ours from a previous visit. Absolutely love it here. Tucked into tapas and wine and soaked up the atmosphere of this white village, with stunning views over Benalmadena. Then, rather than use our return bus ticket, we took a long, leisurely, steep walk downhill back to our apartment.

Which brings us to today. Steve was up early to fit in a 10 mile run … achieved! Weather seemed a little iffy again but we headed out for a beach day anyway. It was warm enough but the sea was ferocious – only surfers braving the crashing waves. The bamboo is well and truly back.

An early night is called for tonight as tomorrow I reach the milestone that is “Old Age Pensioner!!” Wish me luck!! x

Costa del Sol – some rambling and a whole load of chilling!!

November 8, 2024 / Dee and Steve / Leave a comment

Friday 7th November 2024

A bit of a contrast to our wet, wild and windy adventures on the UK coastline – this time we’re on the glorious Costa Del Sol where we’ve spent the last 5 days settling into the Southern Spanish way of life. Our accommodation in Benalmadena is neatly tucked away from the crowds, giving us the opportunity to explore local life, practice our limited Spanish and use their marvellous train service to explore all there is between Malaga and Fuengirola. There are some superb walking stretches here as long as you stick to the beach strip … either direction from us we can walk for miles and miles on wonderful promenades. If you venture off you go steeply uphill into the mountains – not for the faint hearted. We’re using our ‘Rambling Roses coastal path walkers’ as an excuse to keep to the flat. To be honest a few hills in this moderate November temperature will not be so bad so I’m sure we’ll wend our way up a hill/mountain or two before too long … but there’s no rush!!

We arrived on Sunday night, two hours later than planned due to flight delay. This had the knock on affect of a slight situation at check in … the supermarket, where our keys were waiting for us, had shut. After a number of phone call attempts we finally made contact with our airbnb host to explain – the outcome was we took refuge at the pizza parlour until a young lad appeared on a motorbike an hour later with spare keys. This wait forced us to consume wine!!! Our bijou apartment is lovely and all we need for our budget self-catering 4 weeks sunshine break. And plenty close enough to where many of our running friends will be located when they come out later in the month, just a couple of train stops away. Sea views too, over stunning white Spanish architecture – just perfect.

So, this first week we have been finding our feet in terms of:

The best beaches
Selection of walks
How to negotiate Spanish train ticket machines
The ins and outs of the bargain 10 euro train ticket
Exploring all the stops on the Malaga – Fuengirola train line
Importantly, which stations are lower down i.e. how to avoid long uphill walks after a day out!! **
Cheapest supermarkets
Bargain yet delicious Spanish wine
Spanish restaurants

** would recommend Fuengirola, Torreblanca, Carvajal and Los Alamos for beaches that are nearer to train stations. Montemar Alto and Torremolinos are great places but be prepared for a strenuous walk uphill from the promenade if you end your walk in either of these areas.

It’s definitely been hotter some days than others and generally warmer than we had expected. We’ve had a couple of beach days already so plenty of chilling. I’ve got to swim a few times so I’m a happy bunny – the sea is not cold, honestly – not quite a bath but easily doable and refreshing.

On Wednesday evening we ventured into Feungirola where we enjoyed a seafood paella at ‘San Pe’, a pretty Spanish restaurant tucked away in the side streets of this vibrant town. On our way home, we bumped into our running friend Julie Bousfield, and her husband Martin – they have an apartment in Torreblanca and had been enjoying a meal out too … so we shared a ‘merry’ train ride home. We met up with Julie again this morning for coffee and a lovely stroll and she shared many handy tips to help us during our stay here.

Walks so far this week:

Around Benalmadena
Benalmadena – Carvajal
Montemar Alto – Los Alamos
Carvajal – Fuengirola

Trying to get in at least 5 miles of walking each day whilst Steve is trying to build up his running mileage in preparation for the Benalmadena Half Marathon later in the month – he’s wondering why he signed up!! Suffice to say we are very happy to be here. Sunny weather and blue skies certainly energise you and create positivity. After a crazily busy year, we’re relishing spending some chilled time together and intend to take it easy as well as make the most of our Spanish time. And we could wax lyrical about the bargain that is the 10 euro train ticket – we can use it for all our trips for the whole month we’re here and there’s still plenty for us to see and do on the Costa Del Sol.

We hope the sun keeps shining … except on the two race days!!

The Swansea stroll …

September 12, 2024 / Dee and Steve / Leave a comment

Thursday 12th September 2024

Day 11 – Swansea to Langland Bay

We had saved this wonderful stretch for our very last day of walking for this trip as it involved a gentle stroll along the Swansea promenade, into the Mumbles then up and over the hill into Langland Bay. Easy peasy! I felt so recovered after my day off yesterday and a sunny amble was the perfect finale to what has been a terrific walking holiday with lovely friends.

Steve, Ros and I caught the bus into Swansea, sitting on the back seat like excited schoolchildren. And there was excitement too when squeezing along narrow roads in Mumbles, due to parked cars on either side, a speedy JCB managed to scrape the side of the bus. This caused delay while an investigation took place … and gave the local passengers a great opportunity to moan about parking in the area … “Mumbles is just like one big car park.”

We finally disembarked and found our way from the bus station to the promenade – the sun was out, blue skies, just perfect. Less than two miles in the rain came to join us so we used it as an excuse to dive into a cafe for coffee. Fabulous seafront cafe called ‘The Secret’ which we subsequently realised is the starting point for our parkrun on Saturday.

By the time we emerged the rain had stopped and then held off all day. So a fabulous walk along the miles of Swansea promenade and then into the Mumbles … and it had to be a Greggs sausage roll for lunch. We stuck to the seafront coastal path and were impressed by the Coastal Protection Project – it’s going to look so smart although I’m sure it’s causing quite an upheaval.

Apart from some steps and a few manageable inclines, the coastal path gave us a day of flat pleasure. Ros and I even got propositioned … a sweet elderly gentleman asked us if we would like to go clubbing tonight. I asked him if he’d like to sign my dance card which made him chuckle and he assured us that he would get the drinks in. We’ve still got it!!

The drop down into Langland Bay was just stunning – we really have hit on a magical place to stay. Opposite our apartment is ‘Langlands Brasserie’ where we toasted our rambling achievement with beers. And it all ended in sunshine.

8 miles walking today.

110 miles in total for this walking trip – not bad for a group of jolly sexagenarians! See you soon.

Over the boardwalk … and Anglesey complete

April 25, 2024 / Dee and Steve / Leave a comment

Wednesday 24th April 2024

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 Pat*h

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 beach*

*Fabulous 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.

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!?”*

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.

*Chatting to Tom while being photographed on Silver Bay Beach*

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.

*Then, further on, back to the views of Holyhead Mountain*

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.

*Celebratory 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!!*

Coastal path walk … with a mountain thrown in!!

April 23, 2024 / Dee and Steve / Leave a comment

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!!

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 stop*

*Said 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.

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.

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.

*And 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*

Walking back to Valley

April 22, 2024 / Dee and Steve / Leave a comment

Monday 22nd April 2024

Porth Swtan to Valley

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 Swtan*

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.

*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.

Marathon Day Coastal Walking

April 21, 2024 / Dee and Steve / Leave a comment

Sunday 21st April 2024

Holyhead to Valley

*Setting off from Holyhead Ferry terminal*

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.

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.

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.

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 Beach*

*A 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.

The three Roses set off from Hell’s Mouth … the pole came too!

April 18, 2024 / Dee and Steve / 2 Comments

18th April 2024

Hell’s Mouth (Porth Neigwl) to Abersoch

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 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.

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!

The rambling roses

Come along with us on our journeys :)

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