The Valley of Rocks is a simply stunning part of the UK coastline, it's one of those places where you can just sit and absorb the beauty that surrounds you, on the edfe of the moor, high up on a wind-swept cliff edge, with the wind blowing, and the waves crashing beneath you.
One of the things on my to-do list is to find some time to properly explore the South West Coast Path. It's really easy to dip into parts of the route, whilst not taking in the atmosphere of the route. I'm guilty as charged here I'm afraid! The valley of Rocks is just a mile or two away from Lynton, a great place to begin a walk, and the path goes through the Valley on its way to Lee Bay, Martinhoe and beyond. One day I'll have something momentous to share!
The Valley of Rocks is home to a number of feral goats, who don't seem to object to the tourists that pass through frequently to take their pictures, before moving on to the next beauty spot.
It's been a go-to place for many a writer, painter, poet or composer, hoping to absorb the atmosphere as inspiration for their next work. Probably the most famous people to have visited are Samuel Taylor Coleridge and William Wordsworth, who aimed to produce a collaborative work set in the valley. Unfortunately it never got completed.
The Australian piano composer Miriam Hyde visited in the 1970's and was so struck by its beauty she wrote a piece of music. Here's a performance of it by the pianist Gil Sullivan. Have a listen to it whilst you check out my photos!
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