Ilfracombe to Braunton(ish)

After yesterday's gentle mileage we had a tougher day today in order to get to Braunton such that we can make a short cut tidal ferry at Instow tomorrow.

We managed to miss this morning's rain by checking multiple weather apps and leaving 20 minutes later than planned. With a tricky bit of route finding we made it out of Ilfracombe and onto the cliffs once again. Today was quite blustery but a good temperature and after a few miles of dodging slugs on the path we made it to the quaint village of Lee.

A steep ascent out of Lee lead to some pleasant walking and we made it the 8.5 miles to Woolacombe. We picked up some provisions for dinner and continued the 2ish miles to Putsborugh before stopping for lunch. Thinking walking along the beach would be tiring we chose the coast path which turned out to be made of soft sand, we abandoned this part way and finished along the beach which was actually much easier going.

After a quick steak sandwich stop we continued around baggy point and descended into Cryode. Lots of walkers have been asking if we are doing the whole path (I assume due to the size of our rucksacks) but today we heard the best response. After we answered the usual question of where are you headed tonight, instead of the usual responses of "don't worry it's not too far now" or "it's easier going from here on" we got a "better keep walking then!"

So we did, after hopping over some rock pools and across the beach we passed a disappointing sign which said "9 miles to Braunton".

Undeterred we plodded on past Staunton, into Braunton burrows. We made it past the golf course and military zone just before sunset and decided to pitch up for the night. Whilst cooking dinner some military guys walked past, apparently we are in the military zone, but it doesn't matter because no one is around, probably less of a threat then the cows which are supposed to be grazing in here...