Things I have learned since my last post:

1. The value of washing machines. Hand washing can only get you so far; I was almost as excited at the sight of a launderette the other other day as I have been at each sighting of a Roskilly’s ice cream vendor.

2. The value of cars. (Not really. More the value of not using them.)

3. If you find the coast path occupied by several cows and a bull, do not attempt to circumvent them by walking (I use the term “walking” loosely) through a gorse field. You can’t walk normally through gorse, and it will go through your trousers and leave red blots all over you. And you’ll be stuck where you are if the bovine ones do take exception to you (thankfully in this case they had higher priorities than daft humans stuck in gorse bushes).

All of this information will obviously be stonkingly useful in London.

Beyond these gems, I’ve had many highlights in the last week or two… The fabulous Tinner’s Arms in Zennor provided us with very comfy beds and delicious grub part way through the relatively wild and woolly but glorious path round the Western end of Blighty on our way from St Ives; as did the Old Coastguard in Mousehole once Western intrepidatiousness had been completed. Land’s End provided some glorious tat shopping opportunities and the chance of a cheesy photo with The Sign (a tenner, but it has to be done); Penzance brought the parky but brilliant Jubilee Pool (see pic; no problem once you’re in and are numb anyway). Plus trundling over to St Michael’s Mount and it’s been a whole world of new experience…!

And of course the coast itself remains as stunning as ever in the sunshine – gorgeous little coves between Marazion and Porthleven, and everything from craggy headlands to tranquil wooded passages on the path. And cows. And ponies. I prefer the ponies.

AND I have officially surpassed the 100-mile mark (by some way now), and obviously am feeling inordinately pleased with myself about it. (!) Legs still in situ.

And last but not least, thank you so much to those who have already joined me on the walk – to M, Debbie, Stu, Ruth, Fiona, Alison and Rachel – thank you very much for the support, and I hope you’ve enjoyed it as much as I have. And to those yet to arrive – look forward to seeing you!

On that note, I must go to kip in the lovely Boak House B&B in Coverack – well worth a mention as anywhere where the welcome involves a G&T and three friendly woofers is more than ok in my book – in preparation for my 7am start and 13 miles tomorrow. Wish me luck!

All content copyright Briony Reed and A Cornish Adventure, 2013. Unauthorised use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Briony Reed and A Cornish Adventure with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.