Spring is coming, the accommodation is booked and you’re raring to get to Pembrokeshire! So make sure you are ready to make this your ‘epic year’: your ‘Year of Adventure’. Forget coasteering or zip wiring, I’m talking about enjoying Pembrokeshire’s real virtue its mile upon mile of outstandingly beautiful walks along its coastal path and in its mystical Preseli hills.
These few tips will help you get the most from your adventure:
Check out your walking boots. Are they still in the cupboard from last year? Check they are still waterproof, supple and comfortable? Are the laces in a good state and are they still comfortable? If in doubt think about buying and wearing in some new ones. It’s worth getting new boots (your best friends on any walk!) properly fitted unless you know what you are doing.
Re-waterproof your outer layers of clothing. You can buy inexpensive re-proofers from any high street walking shop and ask the staff how to use them if you are not sure. A dry walker is a happy walker!
Get yourself walking fit and know your capability. Get some shorter walks in to check yourself out for any little niggles, pains or discomforts. Understand what you are really capable of and comfortable with and plan your walks to stay within these – there is no shame in not walking the entire coastal path in one week! Make every walk is a real pleasure and leave yourself wanting to do another.
Do some advanced planning. Have a look at a map or read up on where you want to explore this year. In the walking world we talk about ‘bagging’ a hill or route. Decide what you will bag this year and don’t just leave it to chance.
Further Advice: if you want to understand more about any of these points call Ian Pattinson (01239 821621) or email him at info@discoverwalkingpembrokeshire.co.uk . Ian is our friendly, Visit Wales Accredited, outdoor activity provider and walking skills expert. His advice is free!!