Day 34: Feeling the strain

Start: Salcombe

End: Beesands

Miles: 11

Total miles: 461

I felt tired when I woke up this morning, my whole body ached and I felt generally run down. It was a mix of general fatigue and like I was fighting off a cold. I caught a cold back in week 3, it resolved relatively quickly although now it seems to have resurfaced. It's difficult to eat well when long distance hiking, trying to eat an adequate energy intake to ofset the calories burnt while aiming to choose healthy choices. It's hard to get enough fresh fruit and vegetables to ensure I'm getting all the vitamins I need. I imagine this plus the daily physical exertion and fewer hours sleep is responsible for how I'm feeling. I decided to reduce my miles for the next couple of days to give me longer rests in the afternoons. Also, as I begin to approach more towns in the coming days, I will try to find more fruit and vegetables to help me recover and fight this off.

I left camp and took the ferry from Salcombe across the river. The approach to Salcombe through South Sands was lined with large houses and gates labelled 'Private Land'. The ferry ride was short and much more official than yesterday's, with a timetable and no need to ring a bell. From here the route became more remote, rugged and hilly. Rocks lined the path reminding me of the stretch from St Ives a few weeks back. The path was challenging, mostly because my legs were heavy and tired making it feel like I was walking through syrup. I took it slowly and rested more than I normally do. I had a few friendly chats with walkers on route, but mostly the path was quiet. As the sun came out the heat added to the challenge and I was glad when I arrived at Start Point lighthouse, knowing my camp would be just beyond there. The route was stunning, with rocky outcrops, hidden beaches and secret coves. Even though I'd only completed 11 miles, the terrain was tough and it took much longer than expected. It turns out Devon isn't as gentle as I expected, with today matching some of the challenge I'd faced in Cornwall.

I've found myself a small patch of shade at camp and will rest here for the afternoon. Tomorrow I will have another shorter day and hopefully find a shop to buy some fresh fruit. It's strange what a difference a day can make. Yesterday morning I felt strong and was making quick, easy progress. But today felt like the opposite. Let's hope an afternoon of rest and another shorter day will help my body recover so I can enjoy my final 10 days.