PORT GAVERNE TO TINTAGEL Stage 20 (9th June 2008)

We decided to do this stretch in reverse since 2 guidebooks warned that it is one of the most severe stages on the whole SWCP (on account of there being 8 steep valleys to cross). Since these are mainly closer to than to we thought it would be better to face them while still fresh. We took the #595 bus to at 9.05, which then became the #584 bus to Port Gaverne. We started the walk in a sea mist which proved a boon as it kept us cool. Today’s profusion flower has yet to be identified by the photographer?. Gull Rock was visible from different angles throughout the walk. We got to Common for cake with 7 valleys crossed by 12.45 and reached the pub in by 13.30 and had lunch. A steep climb led to an easy cliff top stroll past bizarre slate workings and the church above Castle. We reached the Visitors Centre by 15.15, about two hours ahead of our expected schedule, wondering what all the fuss was about. Then took the #584 bus back to at 15.45.

Total distance walked 8.25 miles (13.2km). Ascent 760m

The South West Coast Path is the longest of the official UK National Trails, running from Minehead in Somerset round the English south west peninsula coast to Poole in Dorset. The total length is just over 1000 kilometres or, more precisely, 630 miles. Only very dedicated walkers could contemplate completing the whole walk in one go, although plenty of people have done just this. Received opinion is that it would take around 6 weeks, even for the most dedicated.

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