JOGLE Day 48 19/06/17 Monmouth – Aust 24 miles

Strange old day but overall I think I managed it pretty well. Conscious of the hot temperatures I decided to stay with the low routes along the river Wye as much as possible rather than going for the higher Offas Dyke Path. A few overgrown fields on the first part meant wet feet but that was ok as I got a fair bit of shade at times, particularly along the old railway line and in wooded areas. I stopped and watched one of several fishermen standing near weirs in the river, but not for long! After passing the impressive Tintern Abbey ruins I finally had no choice but to gain height and very quickly had a path misread through a quarry which cost me an extra half mile – not welcome in the 30 degree heat. Once up though the path was easy to follow, one or two road shortcuts at times on the way to Chepstow. I could not resist the urge to stop for 10 minutes at the Tesco service station shop, if was like being in refrigerator!! Next was the Severn Bridge which I had dreaded, but with my iPod drowning out the door traffic noise, hardly any wind and awesome views it was actually an amazing walk! Only shame was that I couldn’t take any photos.. I soon arrived in Aust at the farm and had a cold foot bath waiting.