Day 18: Rocky trail to Pendeen

Start: St Ives

End: Pendeen

Miles: 15

Total miles: 147

We left St. Ives nice and early to complete the first miles before the temperature crept up. My guide book regarded today as one of the toughest stretches of the entire path. Not only was the elevation 1100m but the trail was lined with large boulders and rocks. Initially it was difficult to get into a rhythm, but eventually I got used to hopping over the rocks to cross the streams and clambering over boulders. If you took your eyes off the route for a second, you'd misplace a foot and roll an ankle. Concentrating on this occupied my mind. The route was remote, only seeing a handful of walkers and no provisions. I'd made sure that we were carrying lots of fluids and knew the routes to escape the trail if needed.

Later into the walk, we meet a couple who'd been wildlife spotting. They'd seen dolphins, seals and choughs. I asked them were they were from, they were local to the area and told us stories of the disruption and chaos caused last summer when the G7 was held in Cornwall. We also saw some climbers, visiting from the Peak District to try new routes around Commando Ridge. The tin mining industry continued to have a strong presence in today's landscape, with old headstocks and chimneys in the distance.

The hiking today was tough and the progress with slow due to the rockier terrain. When we took a break, I told Sam how happy he would feel when we get to Penzance and he can see how far he's walked. He said that the pride will not outweigh the pain. It got me thinking about why I do this. I could just have a small day pack with some water and snacks, go on a walk then return to a hotel. But instead I choose a far less comfortable option. I think the benefits of planning and executing a long distance hiking extend far beyond the obvious physical reasons. It builds confidence, resilience and strength. It is inevitable that there will be some level of adversity that you have to face, whether that be unpredictable weather, sleepless nights in the tent or physical exhaustion – but exposing yourself to this pushes you beyond your comfort zone while developing perspective and gratefulness for the simple luxuries that we take for granted daily. I understand this is not for everyone, but for me the benefits will always outweigh the temporary discomfort. I'llask Sam again in Penzance if pride has outweighed pain, maybe he'll reassess.

I now have two more days before a complete rest day in Penzance. I'll be drawing upon this to motivate me round Land's End tomorrow.