The Gentle Art of Tramping
Sunshine, a four legged companion and a wander-spirit - two walking routes for you to enjoy.
This week my four legged tramping companion returned with sunshine in tow. We took to the hills in search of ourselves and some new swim spots. Here are two routes we thought you might enjoy the next time you find yourself this way.
Following the brook to the river - Walk 1:
“The morning swim is such an embellishment of the open-air life that many are tempted to plan their whole expedition with that in view.”
- Stephen Graham, The Gentle Art of Tramping
Venford brook, Dartmoor
Slip down from the moors to speak with the trees as you follow Venford’s tumbling brook towards the river. Walk along the woodland path edging the brook and you’ll soon reach the wide river Dart dotted with large sunbathing rocks and cool dipping pools along it’s length.
Here’s a link to the plotted route on an OS map with a detailed descirption.
Before you poo poo a ‘there and back again’ walk, keep in mind that sometimes a small change in perspective is just what we need.
A warm sea breeze and the smell of coconuts - Walk 2:
“Nature becomes your teacher, and from her you will learn what is beautiful, who you are, what is your special quest in life and whither you should go.”
- Stephen Graham, The Gentle Art of Tramping
Soar Mill cove, Devon
Have you ever tentatively bent down among the gorse prickles to smell their yellow flowers? If not, you should - they smell of coconuts!
The flowers are edible too and it turns out there’s lots you can make
Gorse flower cordial or gorse flower rum - with their almond flavour and coconut smell, you’re on your way to a great botanical cocktail.
Rice pudding, fudge, wine, pannacotta, the list goes on and on!
(I could pretend these photos are blurred for an artistic reason, but really, it's that my phone decided to have a few hours where it refused to focus)
