The Familiar Can Still Surprise. . .

Of all the places in the Lake District, I've probably been to Ambleside the most and I've done the walk to Grasmere several times.  But here's the lovely thing about this area; not only is it always changing in different seasons and varying weather conditions, but there are paths at all levels and for all walking abilities. Last summer I took my Mum on a very low-level walk around Rydal Water, through the woods and out onto the path that brings you to the shores of Grasmere Lake and its famous view. She absolutely loved it.  If you want a greater challenge, you can go up and do half of the Fairfield Horseshoe and then come down into Grasmere.  You can also take a middle height path and go along the famed "Coffin Route".

But on our last Sunday ramble, the leader chose yet another path going up parts of Loughrigg Fell. It was a lovely route with equally nice views up to the hills (mostly shrouded in mist) and down to the very still waters.

I love how vibrant the colours still are and how they look like smudged watercolours in the lake's reflection.

I've been over bits of Loughrigg several times but there are so many different paths you can take and I'd never travelled over this exact one so it was very exciting to suddenly come across this huge cave carving itself into the hillside.

Just another of the many pleasant surprises walking always bring, and yet another enjoyable ramble before arriving at the familiar view overlooking Grasmere.  Have I mentioned how much I love the Lake District?