Day 3/4 Cleveland Way (section of the Way) 54km - Boltby to Osmotherley - 1 Jun 2010

15.2km, took 3.75 hours

It was a very wet and low visibility day. After a good breakfast at the B&B, I left Boltby in search of the shortest way to rejoin the Cleveland Way. Wanting to do short-cuts, I ended up at Boltby Reservoir where forest tracks were going in all directions, and unfortunately not listed on my map! I had to get my compass out in several situations to make sure I was not walking in circles. I passed a group of 4 horse-riders, trotting and walking. I envied them silently.








After 1.5 hour, I finally found the official well-built track leading out of the forest. It was a great relief. I emerged on moorland at Steeple Cross. Visibility had worsened and rain had grown heavier. It was a pity that the extensive moorland views were blocked by the thick fog. I trotted on, picking up my pace, hoping to get out of this terrible weather as soon as possible.










The path ascended and descended gently, passing a forestry plantation before emerging briefly onto a road beside a carpark at Oakdale Head. I slowly blended into the urban surroundings as I approached the village of Osmotherley. There were some really steep climbs but I pressed on, knowing well that I would be reaching my destination soon.












The village was smaller than expected and I headed to the YHA straight away despite knowing that it would not be opened till 5pm. It was located at the outskirts of the village, not very near, sadly. :( While waiting for the reception to be opened, I took a shower, dried my wet clothes and boots and spent the remaining hours in the TV lounge. I had dinner in the YHA with many coast-to-coast walkers who were sharing thousands of interesting encounters. Envied them...I would have done that walk if I could afford 2 weeks more. But now, there's no time left. :(