June 6th: Bude to Tintagel

Boscastle Harbour

Day 7 and the weather is mixed today. The day started and we were in shorts, t-shirts and sunglasses but for the first time during this journey, we find ourselves having to put on full waterproofs during the day as the heavens open up and the wind howls around us, adding an extra layer of difficulty to an already demanding day.

When the weather turned...

Dizzveryhard

Navigating the South West Coast Path, we follow the set route religiously, yet despite our apparent diligence, we find ourselves covering more miles than the guidebook indicates. The day was initially daunting with a planned climb of 6000 feet and a trek of 21.5 miles, but to our unpleasant surprise we end up walking a total of 24.5 miles! The additional miles, compounded by the erratic weather conditions, leave us feeling utterly drained by the day's end.

Bob powering through!

Reflecting on the first week of this adventure, I feel a sense of accomplishment - as does Bob who has braved it all with me. I believe after this first week I have now climbed the equivalent of one Everest and walked a staggering 155 miles - like a lunatic as my son has been lovingly calling me. And with three more Everest climbs and a total of 475 miles still ahead of me, the challenge is far from over.

Is this the path?

Stunning scenery again today with breathtaking landscapes, jagged cliffs and sweeping ocean views that almost echo the legends of old in Tintagel. Tintagel Castle famously being linked to the likes of King Arthur, the knights of the round table and Merlin for centuries! It made for a somewhat mythical end to the day, as we spent the evening at the 'King Arthur Arms' - with a couple of beers and ice packs all over.

Feeling part of a long line of adventurers to have braved this coast throughout England's history. Reminding us that we are part of a bigger narrative that extends beyond the struggles we may face in this lifetime. (And we get to brave it all with valour, Compeed patches and Gortex!)