June 18th: Fowey to Portwrinkle

The stunning Polperro

Goodbye to the Galleon Inn

Day 19. I set off from Fowey early this morning to catch the ferry to Polruan, that would start me on the next leg of my journey. Like yesterday, with the sun rising steadily, I wanted to get some miles in before it got too hot.

Today proved to be another tough day, with a total elevation gain of 4300 feet over a distance of 21 miles, and the warmth of the sun made every step feel heavier. The physical demands of the day aside, I was accompanied by an emotional weight that stayed with me throughout the day.

From Polperro to Looe

I walked into Looe alongside Martin and Sian who I met on the path today. We shared stories and by the time we got to the harbour both Sian and I were in tears! After parting ways with them, I decided to take a break - grabbing a bite to eat and indulging in a pint. I also needed to ice my legs and seek out some shade to escape the harsh sun.

As I continued my journey, I walked past the beach at Millendreath, where as a child I enjoyed many holidays with my family, and it made me think of my Mum. I don't know what is the most draining, the physical exertions or emotional ones!

Despite the heat, terrain and emotions today, I managed to keep myself hydrated and well-fed and coped ok. But the hardest thing to deal with today was the loss of half my banana. I was looking forward to a little boost and as I peeled it the top half fell off and rolled along the floor. Had a bit of a Tom Hanks/Castaway moment where he loses his beloved companion WILSOOOON!!

My morning ferry, St George's Island and clear blue skies

Portwrinkle ahead, phew phew and double phew

It was a beautiful day with a dead calm sea, stunning clear skies, more spectacular coastal landscapes and lush, vibrant greenery surrounding me all day. By the end of the day, I can say I have now climbed the equivalent of two and a half Everest's! Around 76,000 feet!

First photo after some brutal hill climbs - worth it for the views at the top, Second photo a shot of the calmest sea - not fit for sailing! and Lantic Bay nestled away in the third picture.

Finished the day with a stellar seafood linguine and while eating I received a message from Bob Hallum, my friend who joined me for the first week of this marathon journey, and my golf pals:

"Phil, on behalf of the lads who played Burford today we just wanted to wish you well on the magnificent walk you’re doing . We had a whip today £40 per team which James team won, but only bragging rights and was presented with a small cup . We all decided that the winnings should go to your charity £240, this will be put in by myself on behalf of the fiddle. Keep going Phil we’re all behind you !. Soon back at the club. 💪🏻🍺🍺"

Was I touched or what! Topped off my linguine with a few tears after reading that..

I am staying in The Finnygook Inn tonight and can see Plymouth Sound in the distance.. Tomorrows destination..

View from my window to Plymouth in the distance