Wendy Mewes
Writer, Walker, Guide
Walking
Walking is an important part of my life.
‘Walking reflects this reluctance to be still, a desire for constant sense of purpose and achievement, but this very movement can be an isolating process. It’s no good asking me for an aimless stroll.’
This is a quote from Crossing Brittany, a travelogue about my walking experience along the entire 365km route of the Nantes-Brest Canal. I've also produced a walkers/cyclists' Guide to the Nantes-Brest Canal, with full maps and background information about the canal and things of interest along the way.
Walking the Brittany Coast: Morlaix to Benodet (621kms) gives a full description of the fantastic coastal path in Finistere, with directions and details of sights, accommodation, etc. This has got to be the most spectacular walking in Brittany.
Walking in Finistere is my collection of shorter circular routes, each suitable for whiling away a few hours in the hugely varied landscape of my favourite department.
The Saints' Shore Way: A 133km walk along the north coast of Brittany between Roscoff and Lannion. This was conceived as an extension of the Saints’ Way in Cornwall, and includes historical background about Dark Age migrations as well as full maps and directions.
‘There are layers to excavate in language as there are in landscape. For me this descriptive hymn of topography is the true hold of Breton, and a reminder that identity was based on local landscape in the days when people travelled little outside their own communities. For walkers, these names are precious signposts to the past.’
Crossing Brittany
Brittany Walks
I run Brittany Walks and regularly lead guided walks and historical outings for both groups and individuals, holiday-makers and residents of Brittany. Routes vary according to requests and the weather. Details of the regular programme can be found on the website. For tailor-made requests, please contact brittanywalks@orange.fr
The website www.brittanywalks.com is a resource for all those interested in walking in Brittany, from short circular routes to long-distance trekking. Articles on a wide range of walking topics, FAQs and an information service are available here.
Walking Meditation
An interest under development: this way of connecting with the earth and the present moment shows silence to be a powerful form of communication. Try a new concept of walking - without destination or purpose.
See my blog at www.wendymewes.blogspot.com