A not-so-well-deserved break

Last year, when Nigel and I walked the South Downs Way, we met another couple who were undertaking the same walk. They said something which stopped us in our tracks:

'We're not walking tomorrow.  It's our rest day.'

So one could take a rest day. It simply had not occurred to us. 

'We're going to have one of those next time.' 

So this year on the Pembrokeshire coast path, the plan had been to walk for five days, then take a break when we hit St David's. But thanks to my dodgy knees, when we reached St David's we had been walking for only three of those days - did we even deserve a rest day?

However, there was no way I was going to miss out on exploring this legendary tiny city.

The cathedral turned out to be a jewel, built improbably in a hidden hollow. Inside, the splendid ancient architecture was enhanced by thought-provoking contemporary art and poetry, adding to the spirituality of the place. 

It got even better when we explored the massive ruins of the bishop's palace. There weren't too many visitors so Stephen, one of the custodians, gave us a tour. He had supplemented his historical knowledge with a detailed study of the building and showed us details we'd never have spotted, like 'the disappointing staircase' which led only to a cramped garderobe.

After that, in generous sunshine, we walked out to St Non's head and perched on the ruins of a Celtic Chapel. While Nigel read, I painted a watercolour of the sea and a linnet sang to us from a nearby fence post.

So no, maybe we didn't deserve a rest day, but we certainly enjoyed it.

South Downs Way, Day 5 - Amberley to Bramber - Falls!

Twice today I ended up at eye level with the chalk and flint surface of The South Downs Way. 

The first fall was when I skidded on the chalk, extremely slippery after rain. I had watched my step on the slopes, used my walking poles. But on a flat bit, with barely any incline, my legs skidded from under me.

The second was when, striding along at top speed,  the loop of my bootlace hooked onto the metal eye of the OTHER boot. I actually felt it happen, but there was nothing I could do.  I went flying and was just so relieved not to break my glasses. 

Both times, I was saved from bad cuts by the fact I was wearing fetching elasticated knee supports.

Had tiredness made me clumsy?

When we arrived at the (very hospitable) Black Horse in Amberley yesterday, we got chatting to another South Downs Way walker. He and his wife had not been on the path that day. They had dallied in the picturesque village of Amberley and taken a rest day.  

Now that is an interesting idea for future trips.