Seals and Serenity: A Sea Kayak Trip Around the Great and Little Orme
It was a crisp March morning, Andy and I set out for an exhilarating sea kayak paddle around the majestic Great and Little Orme in Wales. The sun peeked through the clouds, promising a day of adventure and discovery on the shimmering waters of the Irish Sea.
As we launched our sea kayaks from the tranquil shores of Llandudno next to the lifeboat station. The Great Orme rose majestically before us, its limestone cliffs standing tall against the azure sky. With each stroke of our paddles, we embraced the rhythmic dance of the sea, our kayaks gliding gracefully over the gentle swells.
Our journey began along the rugged coastline of the Great Orme, where towering cliffs echoed with the calls of seabirds and the soothing sound of crashing waves. Secluded coves beckoned to us.
On rounding the headland with the square building which used to accommodate the Llandundo lighthouse, the swell was refracting off the cliffs somewhat and we made out a pair of paddlers in the distance. As they approached we soon realised that it was Andy and Catorina paddling the same trip in reverse. They had decided to go with the tide and the wind.
We paddled on looking into the sea cave on the final headland but the swell was a little too big to venture too close. We eventually turned around and paddled back to find some more sheltered water to haul ashore for a late lunch. We opted for the small stoney beach just west of Llandundo pier.
As we rounded the pier, our eyes widened in wonder at the sight of Little Orme, its rocky promontory jutting out into the sea like a sentinel guarding the coast. Eager to explore its hidden treasures, we paddled onward and crossed the bay, our spirits buoyed by the promise of more adventure.
As we approached the shores of Little Orme, a sense of tranquility enveloped us, the rugged beauty of the coastline unfolding before our eyes. We spotted a colony of seals basking on the beaches, their sleek bodies glistening in the light. With bated breath, we watched in awe as they frolicked in the surf, their playful antics a testament to the wild spirit of the sea.
Drawing closer to shore, we marveled at the natural splendor of our surroundings, the rugged cliffs and pristine beaches a testament to the timeless allure of the Welsh coastline. With each passing moment, we felt a deep connection to the natural world, our souls nourished by the serenity of the sea.
We rounded the Little Orme and headed to Rhos on Sea and found a sheltred landing behind the first breakwater. We enjoyed more coffee from our flasks and were overflown by a drone and then a group of powered paragliders.
As the sun began its slow descent towards the horizon, we reluctantly bid farewell to the seals and the shores of Little Orme, our hearts filled with gratitude for the privilege of experiencing such beauty. With the lifeboat station looming large on the horizon, we paddled homeward, our spirits buoyed by the memories of our sea kayak trip.
For in the heart of every kayaker lies a spirit of exploration, a yearning to chart new horizons and discover the wonders that lie beyond. And as long as the sea continues to call, Andy and I will answer, eager to embark on new adventures and create memories that will last a lifetime.
