I have been lurking around this forum, amongst others, soaking up a lot of the advice & tips (very helpful indeed *thumbs up*).
Having just finished University, I am currently organising my first solo 'adventure'. I have decided to complete the SOUTH WEST COAST NATIONAL TRAIL in its entirety (Minehead to Poole).
I am extremely eager to get out there and go but I realise this sort of thing takes a fair degree of planning (which I have been doing for the past couple of months). I have set a date of April 1st 2010 as my start date (to allow for additional planning, time to purchase required gear & also bearing in mind April/May being a good time to walk the trail - or so iv heard!).
I aim to camp as much as possible throughout the route, staying at hostels/b&bs only when necessary. I do plan on staying in some campsites as well but I would prefer to wild camp as much as possible. Basically because it will be much cheaper and also because I think it would be a better experience. I have read a lot about wild camping and I know the importance of respecting the countryside, and I will do everything to keep the countryside as I find it. The question is, is this feasable along the SWCP?
With this being my first real walking adventure, I know some of you may think that its a great length to complete at first. I dont really have any significant walking experience (other than walking along the coast where I live, but nothing substantial). However I do think I will be ok. I am fairly fit for my age, I completed the last 2 Great North Runs and I regularly keep myself active. I know long distance walking is another thing altogether... However, I DO NOT plan to try and race around the SWCP. I have decided to take a day off for every week I am away, to relax and recover (for example I hope to take a ferry to Lundy Island on my first week).
I do not have any deadlines to keep to, so I can literally take as long as I want. My main reason for doing this is to take in the beautiful scenery and heritage along the coast and having lost my mother very recently I also think it will be a great time to clear my head and give myself solitude and time to think.
Anyway, I apologise for the length, I really just wanted to see if anyone else had completed this, and if anyone had any advice (especially on the camping situation).
