We’ve been talking a lot about spring here at Foot Trails HQ as we’re helping many of our guests plan their spring walking adventures. All of which got me thinking back to a brilliant walk I did along the coast in the south west last spring. It really stuck in my mind and felt like a proper sunny spring day, so I thought I’d share it here on our blog.
As I arrived at my startpoint, I immediately knew I was by the coast. In fact, I’d have known this even if I’d had had my eyes shut. The wind was blowing in off the sea, bringing with it the smell of the ocean. Waves were crashing against the rocks, sending salty spray up into the air, and gulls were wheeling and shrieking above my head, presumably on the lookout for some unguarded fish and chips.
It was all very familiar but also very exhilarating. Because I knew I was in for an adventure—with big skies and a landscape that would take my breath away (literally and figuratively 🙂). As I moved through the countryside, I was delighted by the bursts of colour I saw—white hawthorn lining the narrow path, contrasting sharply with the dark skeletons of the still-leafless trees. In fact, one of the things I love about spring by the coast is that the landscape is muted but still really beautiful. The views in all directions were spectacular, a patchwork of farmland to my left, the sea shimmering off to the horizon on my right, and cliff after cliff stretching out in front of and behind me.
The paths are less frequented at this time of year, which meant that I only met a few other walkers out on the trail. The sunshine was a welcome reminder that spring was underway. At the first small fishing port I visited, I even dared to sit outside for a coffee and a slice of cake, letting the sun warm my face. I think it was my first al fresco ‘meal’ of the year.
Tempting as it was to stay and soak up the rays, I kept walking, past thatched cottages and back out onto the path. The trail took me inland and out, through shaded woodlands and villages that look like they’d clung to the coast for centuries.
When I reached my destination, I was windswept but very happy. And, much like the gulls that accompanied me on this walk, I was also on the lookout for some fish and chips!
Emma
