LIFETIME of WALKS by DEREK HARWOOD

South West Coastal Path No. 55              Total: 487.5 miles

Time Taken:     Cycle:     Distance:   Enjoyment:    Weather:  
3 hours                  n/a          4.5 miles         90%           Showers
Nature: Robin

 Temp:     Cloud:     Rain:    Visibility:    Ground Conditions:  
  12oC         85%          15%      Good        Muddy Underfoot
Compantions:  Ann

General:
Drove to Coleton car park. Boots on, then a steady walk with Ann 
down Coleton Lane towards Downend Point. Very large puddle in 
a dip in lane, so Ann returned to car before planned and drove back 
to chalet in St Mary's Bay. Turned north at finger post at end of lane 
towards Crabrock Point and Brixham. Fantastic views across 
Scabbacombe Sands, Long Sands and Southdown Cliff to Sharkham 
Point. Very steep descent to small bridge over small stream by 
Scabbacombe Sands to Woodhuish, where many wild ponies were 
quietly feeding. Very steep ascent from Scabbacombe Sands, over 
cliff above Long Sands, through flowering gorse, brightly coloured 
yellow in sunshine between showers. More yellow flowering gorse 
seen on sharp ridge of Crabrock Point while descending to Man 
Sands. Sheltered during passing shower by wall near house above 
Man Sands. Another very steep path over Southdown Cliff with more 
excellent views north and south. A robin jumped onto the path just in 
front of me above the zig zags down and towards Sharkham Point. 
As usual the robin remained on the path until I got my camera out. 
Mobile used several times on Sharkham Point distracting me 
sufficiently to walk along the wrong path. Had to retrace my tracks 
from the car park back to the coastal path.  Walked straight back to 
the chalet where Ann was waiting with a welcome cup of tea. 
Yet another enjoyable day's walking on the South West Coastal Path.