Well the forecast was not looking the best but we brave few had embarked on this adventure.
The plan, to paddle 35 miles down river in open boats with an over night camp at Ross-on-Wye.
We arrive on Saturday morning only to be greeted with some rain that turned into a lot of rain followed by a complete downpour. Mother nature showing that there are indeed different types of rain, how lovely.
So all dressed to impress in as much waterproof gear as we had, the rain stops and we head on down river after a quick car shuttle. The line up, three open boats and a sea kayak, to be joined on the Sunday by Simon in another kayak.
Well the scenery was amazing as we set out to do the first days 20 mile paddle. The weather just kept getting better adding to the beauty of the surroundings and the waterproofs had to come off. We were treated to a day of amazing sunshine and even the fish were so delighted that they decided to leap over Dale’s boat.
A couple of stops for lunch and it was back to the business at hand. It was such a relaxing time that there was no better way to spend the day than in an open boat heading down river with friends.
We make camp at the White Lion at Ross and sample to local food and drink before a night in town.
Morning was greeted with yet more sunshine and a hearty breakfast, fuel for the fire. We set out again to finish our journey with the remaining 15 miles ending at Symonds Yat. Another beautiful day with a stop over looking the beauty stop at Symonds for us all to have a bit of fun and a swim.
This spot has some very special memories for a member of the group “Hayley”. Rob and myself had our 2 star canoe assessments in what can only be described as the perfect setting. The trip was over far too soon and culminated in a few of us letting off steam and jumping off splat rock. What can I say, “Idyllic”.
Dave Garland
