June 14th: Gunwalloe to Coverack

Kynance Cove

My morning view from The Halzephron Inn, Gunwalloe

Day 15, I left the wonderful Halzephron Inn where the owners were so kind. Clare and David both donated to the fundraiser and provided me a packed lunch for free. Their generosity is greatly appreciated by me.

In complete contrast to yesterday the sun is shining and it does so all day. What a difference it makes, walking seems somehow easier. I found that I was able to maintain a good pace on the mostly well-maintained walking surfaces today, which was a welcome relief for my tired and blistered feet - and I was/am grateful for that small mercy. However, I couldn't ignore the large blood blister next to my left heel, which throbbed painfully whenever I encountered uneven ground. But other than the blisters my body seems to be holding up well and I felt strong today.

I met a number of people as I made my way along the path, including Alec who tells me he is walking the coast of the entire country... in as long as it takes... a monumental feat! We exchanged some tips and encouragement and continued on our separate ways.

My bloody knee

My HUGE blister

Despite the beauty of the day, the trails I traversed were not without their challenges. Due to the nature of the path I must trip and stumble a100 plus times a day. But today I had my first fall. During a downhill stretch, while navigating a particularly tricky section filled with boulders, I lost my footing. And in an attempt to steady myself, I had reached out for support using the raised bank, only to lean against a thorn bush.. I immediately lifted my hand but the sudden shift caused me to lose my balance entirely, and I fell onto my knee. Although it was a minor incident, it served as reminder of the constant vigilance required when walking these trails. I stopped at the next pub, dressed the knee and put on some ice, and thankfully all is good. However I have to say, the worry of a fall is a constant concern on these paths.

From Lizard Point, looking back

The closet accommodation to the path. That is the sign post by the pub garden!

By the end of the day, I had completed 22 miles, climbing a total elevation of 3,400 feet. Although I have already walked 320 miles, the marked halfway point is about 3 miles into my walk tomorrow... I will definitely be doing more than the 630 miles I had initially set out to do.. there's no doubt. After a long day of walking, I was relieved to find my hotel for the night conveniently located right on the path. No walking an extra mile or getting lost trying to find my accommodation today!

The Paris Hotel, my view from the pub garden and the restaurant