We have saved the best
until last and today there is a bit of blue in the sky and a slowly
strengthening sun. We discover a new path opposite the entrance to the campsite
this morning and it is heading in the right direction. A quick look at the map
and we modify our planned route before we have even walked half a mile! This
series of paths and tracks cut off a corner and provides a more direct route to
the tracks which will take us up onto Rhossili Down.
The climb is gentle
and very steady and so we rapidly gain height and reach the trig point at The
Beacon without much effort. The sun is really breaking through now and we get
sudden glimpses both seaward and on the landward sides before the cloud and
mist hide all views once again. By the time we are walking along the ridge of
Rhossili Down visibility has become much clearer and the views are stunning.
The path is wide and grassy and follows the high point with views ahead along
the heather moorland ridge, to our left and behind us the coastline back to
Worm’s Head and to our right countryside views. As the sun is now shining from
a deep blue sky it is about as perfect as it could be!
At the end of the
ridge is a steep descent to Hillend and an enormous holiday park amongst the
dunes of Hillend Burrows. Every guide to this walk recommends the direction as
we have taken it and it is not difficult to understand why as we slip and
slither down the steep slope. The return walk is either on the beach or on the
route of the Wales Coast Path just above the wide expanse of sand which is Rhossili
Beach. We follow the path with the sun shining full in our faces before
dropping down onto the beach for the last mile or so before the steep climb up
to the village.
We treat ourselves to
a late lunch at the excellent Bay View Bistro and finally drag ourselves away
and using field paths return to the campsite.
7.5 miles
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