Hidden Gems

We recently returned from taking the camper and Travel Ted around The Lizard and St.Mawes area.

So, so many little coves, and general beauty. We love Cornwall, as it's always so peaceful.

We stay in car parks mostly. Where possible in a beautiful spot, with a view. This was an impromptu stop at Pendennis Castle near Falmouth. Panoramic views of the estuary, coffee and croissants while watching a pod of dolphins just offshore. An excited young fisherman came running up to us and a couple 'overnighting' next to us. 'Sorry guys, have to tell you to come and see the dolphins'. It was another of those magical moments when complete strangers share something special.

The other couple sold everything they owned, bought the long wheel base/high top version of our van, installed shower etc etc, and have been on the road for six months so far. It's a good life.

Our travels took us to Lamorran Gardens. We've been trying to see them for ages, and have spent many a night sleeping next to St.Mawes Castle to do so. They open occasionally, and at this time they open for three days a week. One of the days when we where there! They are extraordinary. 

Upon entering, we met the gardener Jake. A lovely guy, obviously very smart and knowledgeable. The gardens are set on a very steep incline down towards the town of St. Mawes. Paths zigzag, steps descend, but none of it was as daunting as it first appears. A very clever design. One gets to see every part of this beautiful place without breaking a sweat. 

At every turn something wonderful to see. Generally I would say an Italian theme (the reason for the Egyptian bust becomes apparent, I think, when one reads a little of the gardens history).

We spent a glorious couple of hours just strolling, and having cold drinks and cake at The Terrazza. Sparkling water for Amanda, ginger beer for me, and we shared a delicious homemade lemon drizzle cake.

An old favourite that we like to revisit when in the area is the church at St. Just-in-Roseland. At the bottom of a hill, and surrounded by the river, whilst set in lovely gardens, it has such a sense of peace about it. We always make time to pray and give thanks when there.

A tree with personal prayers was there this year. I added my own very specific one.

Always in need of a cuppa at every opportunity, the kettle goes on at a moments notice.

We were hungry one lunchtime, and because of the heat couldn't be bothered to cook or prepare, so we went to a little ventre in a field above Kynance Cove. Ellies Soul Kitchen

A small caravan, but boy does she offer a fantastic choice of really good, healthy and homemade fresh food. There are plants for sale as well! Always a win win for us. If you are in the area please do go, you won't be disappointed.

Usually when back at the van and settling at the end of the day, we read, drink tea, or in my case pursue the very manly hobby of fower pressing. I have made my own, rather industrial press. Very effective indeed.

A blistering day.

Kynance Cove early one morning. There was nobody else around, and we enjoyed a lovely morning swim in the crystal clear water. It was going to be really hot, and getting clean and refreshed set us up for the day. Living in a small van for a week or more poses many challenges, and keeping clean has been sorted.

Every morning a kettle is boiled, and with shampoo, a bowl and towel. I wash Amandas hair. The left over soapy water can be used to wash our bodies. Needless to say we've got used to keeping our 'bits' hidden from inquisitive eyes!

Another night saw us staying in the car park at Gunwalloe. Virtually on the beach is Winwaloe Church. Small, wonderful, peaceful. It was a good night.

There were dozens of coves and beauty spots, and just a handful mentioned. Our time on the road is always an adventure.

This coming week Bex and Matt take our little van on their own adventure to St. Davids in Pembrokeshire. Gonna miss her (the van). A week of machinery and our own little collection of gardens to tend in the meantime.

Have a wonderful and special week.