Devon's Delights

After 3 months of largely occupying the van I have recently had the chance to enjoy a comfortable bungalow in the quiet village of Galmpton near Brixham. Despite having visited nearby Dartmoor in previous years and explored the coastline to both the east and west this area was new to me.

The Dart Valley's attractions were a revelation with Agatha Christie's home at nearby Greenway sitting in magnificent grounds which led to the small jetty from which local ferries linked to Dittisham and Dartmouth. This access to sheltered waters enabled a friend to join me for a test paddle from Totnes to Dartmouth with favourable tides and high pressure - conditions which allowed him to paddle the dramatic coastline from Brixham, round Berry Head and in to Kingswear the following day.

During the week I attended to a number of tasks on the van - a replacement fridge was fitted and some plumbing and wiring rerouted to facilitate the installation of an underslung waste tank. A new bike rack that will allow me to access the fresh water fill point without removing the carrier or bikes was ordered and fitted - being higher and mounted on just one door it also removes the need for a light board which will simplify things and avoids the need for heavy lifting.

A TV bracket fitted in the roof space added a touch of sophistication and following a full service the trusty bus is now ready for my drift north to Skye over the next month.

Another friend joined me for the weekend during which we enjoyed a fourteen mile walk following the route of Greg's paddle from the swooping coast path but taking almost 3 times as long and then on Sunday walking along the valley to Dartmouth and returning by ferry.

In bright early morning sunshine I explored the empty expanse of Slapton Sands - used for training prior to the Normandy landings almost 70 years ago but now a haven for bird life before carrying on to spectacular Start and then Prawle Points. Salcombe's Sharpitor provided a final walk after a perfect day with good views of large vessels entering the Channel or heading for Plymouth further along the coast.

A day's gardening and housework has left the premises spick and span so tomorrow sees a leisurely return to Wales for badminton, a GP appointment and then a quick trip in to a bothy near Dolgellau to deliver a replacement stove before heading up to the Yorkshire Dales.

Photos of the last fortnight appear can be found here and I hope to get the Spot locator reporting in during the extended Scottish trip.

The slideshow casts back to the charms of Japan.