Over the Easter holiday five of the Friday Bunch stayed at the luxury campsite at Carnon Downs; Ray (organiser), Yvonne, Martin, Ben and Richard (plus non-paddler, Judith, Richard's wife). We managed to paddle 5 days out of 6.
Day 1/Good Friday - Swanpool Beach, Falmouth to Truro. We got involved with the Truro River Race run by Devoran Gig Racing Club, who made us very welcome. Before the race we visited St. Mawes for a pasty and had a sculk around Falmouth Harbour before registering for the race at Church Mylor. Kayaks have won the race for the last few years so the handicapper gave us little chance. Most of the gigs overtook us within the first mile. Martin and Richard dodged the King Harry chain ferry. Ray came first amongst us but we were beaten by 20 minutes by a local paddler! We managed to beat 2 girls on a sit-on-top at least!! Refreshments enjoyed afterwards at the Truro Cricket Club. (17 miles)Day 2 - Pendower Beach to Port Holland rtn - Pendower beach, Nares head, Portloe, Shag rock, Port Holland back to Gull island (choppy uncomfortable sea) round the rocks and return to Pendower beach. (12 miles)
Day 3 - Gorran Haven to Charlestown rtn - Watched seals around the Gwinges, Chapel point, Black Head, Porthpeau, Charleston, Black head, Pentawen Beach, Magvagissey, Chapel point, Goram Haven (18 miles)Day 4 - wet and windy, day off
Day 5 - Swanpool Beach to Helford River rtn - Sunny lunch outside the pub at Helford Passage. (13 miles)
Day 6 - Readymoney Beach, Fowey to Golant rtn - Strong winds forecast so we bimbled around the Fowey River. Readymoney beach, past Penpoll Creek, Great Wood, back to Washing Rocks, Blackbottle Rock, Lantic Bay, Readymoney beach. Winds didn't increase but it did pour with rain so wandered out towards Gribbin Head. (12 miles approx)The occasional heavy rain didn't dampen the fun, fine food and drink enjoyed each evening at the campsite. Thanks to Ray and Yvonne for organising the week, researching and planning the trips.
. . . Ben
