I was staying with my friend this weekend catching up. We love going on walks and chatting as we go. We ended up doing a circular route, walking on all terrain, from sandy beach to pebble beach, to forest and road. We covered it all.
After parking the car, we found our trail and headed to the beach. It was very windy and cold but we were well wrapped up. Making our way along the path next to the beach we found it fascinating that people were playing golf in the high winds next to the beach. How on earth was the ball even going where they needed it too?
At several points the wind would blow me into the path of my friend and unbalance me. But we kept on going. Despite the wind it was a beautiful sunny day. Very little clouds in the blue sky. We were both glad to be out and about, getting some fresh air and blowing out the cobwebs. It was very refreshing and felt great to be outdoors.
Walking and chatting, everything else was on the peripheral. We were truly in that moment and enjoying it all. We walked on the pebbly beach, commenting on the colourful stones and wondered how old they were, admired their smooth shapes and the vast array of colours.
As we moved onto the sandy beach, the footprints of other people and dogs were visible. The closer to the water, we could see the footprints disappear as they were washed away. With the wind less harsh at this side and the beach stretching on, we admired the calmness of the water. We noticed a buoy in the water bobbing about, except when we got closer we realised it was a swimmer with an orange cap. The dry sand was blowing in long streaks towards the sea, making beautiful pattern.
As we made our way off the beach we stopped to get a hot drink to warm up before we headed back out.
The next leg of our walk took us through the forest following a trail. We were going to a place called fairy glen. It’s a small waterfall and is stunning. Due to the recent high winds, a lot of trees had fallen over, reshaping the stream running through it.
Dodging mud and puddles as we walked, we enjoyed the peace and quiet, meeting only a few people along the way. We came to a lovely little waterfall and stopped to take some photos. The water was crystal clear as the bubbles dissipated. If it wasn’t so cold and wintry I did suggest we could paddle in the water. It was only ankle deep so it wouldn’t have been too challenging to do so.
Moving on and up to the bigger waterfall. We had to climb a small but steep section. I’ve got long legs so am lucky I could make it up. Jill made it but with shorter legs it was certainly challenging. Arriving, we admired the stunning waterfall, we listened to the water rushing over the edge. Worth the walk for sure. It was very relaxing and quiet except for the wind in the trees and the waterfall.
The next leg was a steep incline up a hill, it promised amazing views. We were unsure but as the weather was good and we were already there, it made sense to keep on going. We wanted to see this views!
Off we went, after about 30 seconds we had to have a breather, but there were trees perfectly situated on the path to help hold us up and have a moment to breathe. Nature was giving us a helping hand, of which we were really grateful.
With the wind still burling and the end not in sight, paying attention to the ground and sides was ever more appealing as a distraction to get up this hill. Looking at the colours of the leaves, grass, trees, bushes were helping us to push on.
Wow! When we got to the top, the views were stunning. It was truly breath-taking! The photos do not do it justice. Appreciating the views, and the true beauty of the scenery, we were thinking of those that lived there and how lucky they are to see that view every day.
Our journey down to the car was on a minor road, it was steep and hard not too run once you picked up momentum. But we barely paid attention to the road as we walked closer to the town admiring the views as we went.
Back at the car we got out of the wind and felt our faces for the first time in about 3 hours. But we felt great. Full of energy and alive. We spoke about the different stages of the walk, the things we saw such as a seagull swooping to get a crab from the water and then flying high and dropping it to get the meat.
On a beach, in a wood, on a road, you will see many different natural sights. I encourage you to get out and enjoy the weather regardless of the wind or rain. You can see so many things if you pay attention and notice. From the gulls overhead, the water lapping at the shore, to the wind through the trees and our feet squelching in mud, there are many natural sounds to enjoy.
Going for a walk is a great form of exercise, it clears the head, gets the blood pumping and is good for your mental wellbeing. See what you can see and hear on your next walk.
Enjoy your week, have fun and thanks for reading.
Love Emma xx

