June 21st: Challaborough to Prawle Point

Salcombe

Just a slight delay to the morning... It was milky time!

Day 22. After a lovely breakfast of porridge with fresh fruit, Jono and Suzi drove me back to Bigbury on Sea to resume my walk where we left it yesterday.

Jono and I

Jono, despite grappling with a troublesome ankle, accompanied me for the first four miles to Hope Cove. Susie then joined me for the next eight miles to Salcombe, and together we embarked on a delightful trek along this stunning stretch of coastline.

Hope Cove and Bigbury in the distance

As we approached the Salcombe/Kingsbridge estuary, the scenery became even more spectacular - gorgeous almost turquoise water, lush greenery and the estuary teeming with boats of all shapes and sizes. We passed by some fabulous houses that lined the waterfront too, each one more impressive than the last. The area had a lively, affluent atmosphere and I was more than happy to spend a little more time there, finding a charming local pub and enjoying a beer with Susie before hopping on the ferry/boat across the estuary.

Salcombe Harbour

Waving goodbye to Jono ans Susie in Salcombe

Once I disembarked, I continued my journey on foot towards East Prawle, where I was set to meet David Hardie, an old acquaintance I had not seen in many years - we were reconnected recently through a mutual friend.

I arrived at East Prawle and David and I had a beer in the Pig's Nose before he drove me to his lovely home in Torcross. We had a good catch up, discussing the changes life had brought us.

David, who had faced the loss of his wife to ovarian cancer just a year prior, spoke with a depth of understanding that really resonated with me. He shared his insights on grief, emphasising that there are no strict timelines for healing - each person navigates their own path and it’s crucial to take it one day at a time.

His words were comforting, and I felt a kinship with him as we both journeyed through our respective losses. He said I could call him anytime. I know that David truly understood what I was feeling, like Ruth who I had met a couple of days ago.

On Prawle Point heading to East Prawle

He cooked a lovely meal and we ate with his good friend Janet. I found comfort in their company, and I appreciated the kindness and support from them both.

Only 18 miles today, and only 3000 feet of elevation so... felt like a rest day! But in all seriousness, when the terrain flattens out, the physical demands of the walk are significantly reduced. I found myself moving with a lightness in my step and without the usual fatigue that accompanies steeper climbs. I could've kept walking to Dartmouth!! (...okay not really)

I'm very much looking forward to walking with my golf pals tomorrow, as my journey soon heads into it's final week!