Wednesday 25^th November 2015 – 47/52 – Pleinmont to Pembroke Bay

Arriving at Pleinmont this morning my mind immediately went back to the previous Wednesday and how difficult the wind had been on Pleinmont Point. The wind, a north westerly, was strong again today, but although this leg is some 11 miles long it is quite flat compared with the much higher altitude of the cliff paths. Clive S was my only companion this morning, but I was very grateful for his company in what would prove to be testing walking conditions.

The tide was well out as we set off for L’Eree, and the coastal road was littered with pieces of seaweed and smallish pebbles that had been washed over the sea wall by the strong tides, with that very distinct smell of seaweed which is such a familiar characteristic of this area throughout the year. We were pleased to get off to a good start and steady walking rhythm, despite the strong wind. There were very few people around due to the dull and windy weather conditions, but the views out to sea were spectacular as we pounded along, and despite the tide being out a long way, you had to feel for any seafarers out in those conditions.

We quickly got through to Perelle Bay and around to Richmond, where I was somewhat concerned that the stronger wind would be blowing sand in our eyes, but this did not happen as the sand was quite wet. There were very few dog walkers out today although the few that were out were going all the way to the waterline with their dogs. No matter what the weather is like Vistas Cafe always seems to have people in, and today was no exception, all taking the opportunity to get some refreshment and shelter from the weather. On towards Cobo, and with the pink granite rocks it looked reminiscent of a moon landing site as you viewed the area.

We did have problems with the blowing sand as we hit the sand dunes around Grande Rocque, but it was short lived as we turned inland towards the Port Soif area. There were a few more people around in this area but a stark contrast to the much busier flow there is when the weather is much more favourable.

The sea birds always seem to use the strong winds to their advantage and we were greatly entertained by their hovering in such conditions. With the skies getting darker we were conscious of the probability of getting wet at some point, although time-wise we were well on schedule to catch the 13:04 92 bus from Pembroke Bay. Inevitably the rain did eventually come down, as we hit the Rousse headland, and we had a heavy shower, which fortunately was not prolonged.

It was nice to see the kiosk opposite the Vale Pond nature reserve open and being used but we did not have time to stop otherwise we would likely miss the bus and have an hour to wait in wet clothing – not advisable on a day like today! I was feeling the pace we had set at this stage but it was imperative we did not slack off across the golf club area. There were plenty of golfers around today despite the very strong wind – it must be difficult for them in this very exposed area of the island!

We were delighted to arrive at the bus stop at Pembroke Bay with minutes to spare for our intended bus back home, which duly arrived on time.

Yet another tough leg completed and now down to 5 more to do with 47 completed!

Many thanks to Sarah Snell Photography for the use of her photograph of the rough seas on the west coast – https://www.facebook.com/sarahsnellphotography?fref=ts