The Rumps

A wave splashes all over me. Soaked wet, I laugh. Suddenly the mental tiredness lifts, as if the wave rinsed it away, taking it all back into the sea. I take off my wet shirt and place it on the rocks to dry. Setting myself next to it, I feel the calmness that is so natural to me, flowing back into me. Slowly I come to sense the lands again and in silence I listen to the voices of the rocks. Balance.

After driving across one of Britain's wonderfully narrow lanes (meaning one car broad, two way road), I find the parking lot to be more than full. Not fancying driving back, I stand there in doubt. Someone advices me to drive on and park in a lay-by along the lane. It seems to be common practice so I decide to take my chances. A little further I see a van parked in a lay-by and my car fits exactly behind it, so I pull over. Soon I find myself chatting with Matt, who is a professional mountaineer and about to climb some of the cliffs. The great thing about meeting locals, is that you get directed to the best places and so I end up walking west in the direction of Penzaeth, along the South West Coast Path, instead of my initial plan to walk from Port Quin to Port Isaaq.

The north coast of Cornwall is fascinating. Rugged cliffs, coves that turn into sandy beaches when the tide is out, endless views over the sea and over the land. As today is my first time hike here, I can't seem to stop. Around every rock there is another one attracting me, promising more beautiful views. The day is sunny and warm, making me regret my choice to not bring my shorts. I prepared for cold and rain, used as I am to face all types of weather in one day in the outdoors.

I come to the Rumps. Watching the waves crush on the cliffs deep down below me, I sit on the rocks. The wind messing up my hair, the sun shining on my face, land behind me and sea in front of me. Nothing more. Especially nothing less. Such simplicity is a treasure these days. A few other people find a spot on the rocks as well, enjoying the solitude. If you ever go to Cornwall, be sure to get to this spot. It's one of the best.