What a glorious day! The sun is shining and it is really warm despite a breeze. We start with a swim in the pool which we have all to ourselves.

When we drove into Boscastle, we thought it would be a quick visit as there didn't seem to be much to see. We parked the car and set off with Truffles tugging on his lead, eager to explore. I was surprised at how 'dog-friendly' the place was, even the pottery shop said he was welcome. However, with his uncontrollable wag, we decided not to take any chances. He was happy to wait outside and welcome the other customers.

The only thing we knew about Boscastle was what we had seen on the news about the floods in 2004. It hardly seemed possible that the picturesque, babbling Valency River could cause so much damage. We followed the river through the town, exploring some lovely shops and noting which of the cafes and tea rooms might be useful later on. The icing on the cake came at the end as we clambered over the slippery, slatey rocks to where the natural harbour was revealed in all its rugged glory.

On the way back we stopped for a cup of tea and our first Cornish Pasty of the week at the newly rebuilt Harbour Light.

We continued our journey to Tintagel where we stumbled upon the little gem that is The Old Post Office. Dating back to 14th Century, the undulating slate roof is topped by picturesque tiered chimney stacks. Passing the Victorian post box, we have to duck through the low door frames to enter the interior which is an enchanting collection of rooms including the hall, parlour and two bedrooms. The garden at the back is an absolute delight and provides the ideal opportunity to sit and enjoy another perspective on the building.

From here, we headed down the main street towards the castle. We were surprised to find ourselves on a steeply sloping path leading down towards the sea. Surely castles are built on hills? Little did we know!

Reputed to have been the birthplace of King Arthur, we find the rugged coastline and view the long climb up to the castle. The wind is now quite strong and the waves are crashing against the rocks and into Merlin's cave.

The castle is split in two by a deep chasm separating the island from the mainland. We make our way to the ticket entrance. As it is by now a bit late in the day, the lady in the ticket office suggests that, rather than pay to go on to the island we visit the mainland part of the castle which is free at this time of day. We climb the steep steps to the top, gasping for breath! It is so dramatic to walk through the ruined castle and gaze at the roaring waves below us. We follow the path that returns us to ground level just in time to catch the last LandRover back to the top of the hill.

The afternoon is topped off by a fantastic cream tea with the usual argument about whether the jam or cream should go on first!

On our return, we decide to take the dog for a walk on Widemouth Beach. We arrive at dusk, just in time to see a crowd of surfers on their way out into the sea. We spend an enjoyable half hour watching them ride the huge waves while the dog avoids getting his paws wet.