Day 4 - St. Agnes to Gwithian

St. Agnes to Gwithian
18 miles 3,000ft Ascent

I set off at 06.30am from the campsite just north of St.Agnes. and dropped into Trevunance Cove to start a steep hill climb onto the cliffs. The trail was fairly easy after that to Porthtowan. En route, I came across the amazing cliff top tin mines. The mines extend out under the sea. The buildings were amazing. I had the place all to myself.
I carried on to Porthtowan where I waited 20 mins for a lovely coffee shop to open. Unfortunately, this means dropping down to sea level and then back up steep inclines to get back onto the cliffs to Portreath.
The trail was comfortable on this section as I walked past a disused airfield on Nancekuke Common.
As I descended into Portreath, I felt really tired but thankfully found a little bakery with seats in the shade.
I decided that I would only walked a few more miles and stop at a campsite just beyond Portreath.
The next 3 miles were brutal. I had to descent and ascent really steep sections. On the very last ascent, I met a couple day walking in the opposite direction who tried and failed to raise my spirits by saying look at the amazing scenery.
I ungraciously replied that I was past that as I struggled with my heavy pack.
A mile later and at the point of bailing out to a nearby campsite, I started to get my energy levels back and decided to carry on. AC/DC and Van Morrison helped me along.
Near a place called ‘Deadman’s Cove’ (I’m not kidding), I met a trail walker going the opposite direction. He was walking the trail in aid of Prostate Cancer. He and I spent an hour just chatting. He was a retired Met Officer.
I carried on my slog to Godrevy Point lighthouse and turned south towards Hayle and St.Ives Bay.
I arrived at a fantastic campsite in Gwithian. The staff were very attentive and have charged me £10. The site is packed but I am tucked away in a backpackers section away from everyone.
The weather has been stunning today. Admin completed, No blisters to speak of..
St Ives tomorrow!Leggi altro