Now that the nights are drawing in, the traditional drive to the coast ends with pitching tents in the dark, and then looking for everyone else. Normally, my sea kayaking friends can be found in a nearby hostelry. In this case it was the
Glendower Hotel in Fishguard.
The next morning we checked the weather and divided ourselves into smaller groups before heading off to different parts of the north Pembrokeshire coastline.
I headed to Whitesands Bay near St Davids with a group to explore Ramsey Sound and the surrounding areas. On the water, the highlight was always going to be the tide race at 'The Bitches'.
Off the water, we spent over an hour at lunchtime sheltering from the chilly north breeze in the sun trap that is St Justinian. We were limited to a small number of landing places because many of the small coves and beaches are occupied by young grey seal pups.
Once we arrived back at The Phoenix Centre the Saturday evening festivities began with drinks round the barbecue in the fading rays of late afternoon sunshine. As darkness fell, the cool of the evening gently ushered us into the bar where the fun and games went on late into the night.
On Sunday morning our Indian Summer had been replaced by dozens of hangovers, heavy drizzle and increasing south-westerly winds. I headed north with a group with the idea of finding some shelter at Cwm-yr-Eglwys. This is a great area for rock hopping and exploring gullies and caves. I'm certain that it would be even better on a nice day.
Thanks to Mike Mayberry of
Mayberry Kayaking for organising the weekend and to everyone else who took part and made this event so laid back and friendly.
