Canoefest is a fabulous annual gathering organised by the Open Canoe Association.It takes place at a different venue every year and this year it was at Ross on Wye Rowing club.
This meant easy access to the River Wye and a lovely big field to camp in where I set up my tent.
I had lunch and assisted others with putting up tents as the field began to fill up.
I went for a walk around as the sun began to set and took this picture looking towards town.
The night was cold but I had two sleeping bags and put one inside the other so I was toasty warm
despite finding ice in my water bottle sin the morning.
After breakfast I went to the briefing to find out what activities were on for the weekend.
There were lots of demonstrations, trips to go on and coaching included in the price.
I opted to go on a trip from Ross to Symonds Yat and after sorting out a shuttle we were soon on the water.
Whilst on the trip our leader Adrian was available for dispensing tips and helping improve our technique.
The River Wye flows a lot faster than the Nene so we continued at a good pace.
We stopped for lunch at one of many easily accessible beaches
There are lots of points of interest along the route including this tower near the Youth Hostel.
and lots of abandoned old railway bridges
We were soon close to home as we passed under this bridge and were back in plenty of time to rest up and prepare for the evening.
A fabulous day with pleasant company on a cracking trip. Day 2 will follow shortly.