Lisa Drewe Best Guidebook luck changed as three dolphins barrelled toward me . For a few magical minutes , the curse of not spotting them was lifted , and I felt a profound connection to the natural world — a sensation that only human-powered exploration of water can evoke .
Energised , I headed south to Pembrokeshire ’ s captivating coastline , exploring the sea caves and tunnels of the Witches Cauldron . Here , my husband Charlie bravely plunged into the emerald waters to check the water levels for my photography . I playfully suggested he sing while swimming so I knew he was safe . His choice ? ‘ Yma o Hyd ’— Welsh for “ Still Here ”. Fellow swimmers were left wondering what creature lurked within the hidden depths of their favourite swim spot .
The Blue Lagoon at Abereiddy , the cathedrallike sea caves in Wales near Stackpole Quay , and the awe-inspiring Blue Crater near Broad Haven South were other highlights along this stunning coast . Inland , there were tide and beer-assisted trips from Carew Castle to Cresselly Quay and inn , while urban paddling in Swansea Bay showcased a surprising juxtaposition of nature and industry . After rounding the serpent-like Worm ’ s Head and paddling past the sandy beaches of Gower , I was ready to re-enter civilisation , albeit tired from the constant navigation of the Bristol Channel ’ s significant tidal range .
The final leg of my research trip took me to Southeast Wales , where the Bannau Brycheiniog ( Brecon Beacons ) and the River Wye , offered stunning paddling experiences . From the Three Bays of Barry Island to Cardiff Bay ’ s urban vibrancy , I explored waters that passed iconic landmarks like the Principality Stadium and Castle Coch . Inland , there was Pontsticill Reservoir , in the shadow of Pen y Fan , and Blaenavon ’ s Keeper ’ s Pond - though drone photography here was thwarted by an overzealous father-son team experimenting with a motorized rubber ring in a very tight space !
Looking back , exploring Wales from the water was a transformative experience . While it may sound idyllic , researching 104 routes for the book was no easy task . Finding the right balance of conditions for safety and photography was challenging . A perfect day required wind under 10 mph and in the right direction , tides in my favour , and the sun in the right spot – and rarely did these factors align . When they did , I made the most of it , rarely taking a rest . Even then , camera equipment and saltwater waves proved an unfavourable mix , and an embarrassing self-inflicted drone attack saw me in the drink !
Reflecting on this journey , I ’ ve come to fully grasp the meaning of the Welsh word cynefin — a term that captures a deep sense of place and belonging . It speaks to the almost primal connection we feel to the landscapes that shape us , to the places where our histories are written . It ’ s about being rooted , attuned to the rhythms and nuances of the natural world , and knowing it instinctively . Last year , out on the water , I truly understood why this word is so deeply Welsh , yet its concept resonates across other Celtic languages . Interestingly , cynefin has no direct translation into English , which makes me wonder – why ? I ’ ve never been more attuned to what nature offers us and , more importantly , what we stand to lose . Never before have I felt such a strong desire to protect these blue spaces . Now that this Celtic odyssey is complete , I know I ’ ll return — drawn back by the wild beauty and the profound connection these waters hold .
Wales / Cymru Paddle Boarding by Lisa Drewe
Adapted from the Introduction
Published by Wild Things 2023
The judges said Great book : inspirational plus packed with genuinely useful information . Lovely to look at whether or not you ’ re ever going to use it ! Good text and beautiful images . A very successful series / publishing strand – does the job beautifully .
above Cydweli ( Kidwelly Explorer ) below Llynnau Mymbyr , looking into the Snowdon Horseshoe
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