|
We've only been to Camisdal once before and this trip reminded
me why - it was pretty tough walking. This expedition was
quite crowded: ten explorers, Benjamin, Calum, Edward, Fern,
Frederik, Nicole, Robbie C., Rowan and Thomas, plus eight
helpers, Claire, Heather, Howard, Johnny, Pamela, Philippa,
Sam and Sheila W. We also had three official dogs, Ellie,
Honey and Roo, plus Stan who came along to pick up the odd
stick.
I knew this would be a walk needing navigation so I started
off my explaining how to use a compass to the younger explorers.
This time we needed all the help we could get, with a compass,
map and GPS.
The first part was simple enough, and it felt pretty blowy
hurrying along the track past Gorteneorn. Once we got past
the gate we were in the shelter of the trees and everyone
started to get quite warmed up. We turned off on the old grassy
track leading north and squelched our way along until we reached
the top of the hill above Droinen.
Last time, I carried on around the hill to the north but this
time I cut over the top, using a compass bearing and the GPS
to check the position. It worked out quite well in the open
ground but I got some funny GPS readings under the wet trees.
However, we came out at just the right place and crossed the
fence onto the beach. Some explorers looked at the old wrecked
boat before we made our way along the shore to the old Camisdal
croft.
This is an old ruined building on the edge of mature forest
and a lovely place to stop for a wafer, which we did. Everyone
did a bit of exploring in the forest and I found an old track,
possibly leading to the Droinen graveyard.
All too soon it was time to pack up and head back. We went
up the hill through the big oak trees and then worked our
way round the hill at the top of the dunes until it was time
to strike inland. I couldn't find any landmarks I recognised
so we threaded our way through the forestry using the compass
for what seemed like hours. Finally I got a good GPS fix and
was able to cross to the path for the walk back.
At this point it stopped raining and started drenching, and
it got wetter and wetter the nearer we got to the cars. By
the time we reached the Pantry, everyone was soaked and the
warmth and food were never more welcome.
John
Dye
|
|
