Gri's galivanting's - October '24

 

As many of you know, I had an exciting adventure in October! I went Nordic walking in the beautiful landscapes of southern Spain in the Sierras de Aracena y Picos de Aroche region with some Nordic walking friends, and I also took the opportunity to visit family and friends in the lovely areas of Cornwall and Dorset in the UK. After a long journey with some layovers in Seattle and Heathrow, I finally arrived in Swanage, where my lovely friend Maureen welcomed me with open arms. She was
a great host, and we explored this charming coastal town together.

  

We checked out some incredible historical sites, including an old mine where the famous Purbeck stone was extracted.  There are many mine shafts across the landscape, notably Tilly Whim Caves in a dry glacial meltwater valley. The abandoned quarry now hosts a rookery of bats, which are protected…that was rather sinister. For obvious safety reasons, the entrance is now chained. 

The Great Globe is regarded as one of the largest stone spheres in the world, weighing around 40 tonnes. Just thinking about the fact that it was built in the 1800s highlights the extraordinary engineering skills of the time. It's a place that really leaves you with a sense of wonder! 

One of the highlights of my brief visit to Swanage was Durlston Park and Nature Reserve, and I have to say, it was simply breathtaking!  There are countless fun activities for kids, and the views of Dorset’s stunning Jurassic coastline are nothing short of awe-inspiring—complete with meadows, sea cliffs, and fantastic walking trails. 

                                                            

I found the charming castle, with its lovely café, to be a welcoming place to relax. 

We decided not to climb up to the lighthouse since the day was damp and blustery.

I was amazed to learn how this peaceful little town played a vital role during World War II, helping to defend the UK against a potential German invasion! There are still remnants of that time scattered along the beaches and coastline. One of them is Fort Henry, a sturdy bunker that overlooked the bay and was once a vantage point for Churchill, Eisenhower, Montgomery, and even the King. Standing there, looking at the stunning Studland Bay, it was hard to believe that such a beautiful spot had witnessed so much history and death, all rather grim.

We spent time strolling through the picturesque countryside, admiring the breathtaking scenery and visiting the centuries-old Norman church of St. Nicholas. 

Later, we joined my cousin Eve for delightful musical events, including a series of Victorian Harvest hymns and a captivating show by the Welsh folk group Vri, who were extremely talented and lively. Eve had performed at this church earlier in the year with her fellow choristers, 

Upon our return from Spain, I was warmly hosted by my Nordic walking pal Jan, who lives in a lovely house on the Arne near the charming town of Wareham. 

The next morning, the team took us on a scenic hike to the Old Harry Rocks, a place I'd long wanted to see. It's quite impressive and rather breathtaking, especially when standing alone, being invigorated by wind and rain - reminiscent of Wuthering Heights. Apparently, daredevils sometimes fall over the cliffs.

My lovely hosts, Jan and Maureen 💚💚💚 and Lynne, our fearless leader💙💙💙

See you in the next chapter in Spain, Picos de Aroche - where we spent a week full of adventures, walks/hikes in the rain, enjoyed Spain's gastronomic delights, and made new memories.