The first overnight stay in Ivy, our campervan, was a success, mainly thanks to our choice of destination – Eden Valley Holiday Park at Lanlivery. In a wooded paddock, a short walk from the village, Mr Word Loft and I spent a relaxing weekend learning more about van life and decided we love it.
It’s been a bit of a learning curve. On arrival: ensure the water tank is topped up, then at the pitch, hook up the electricity before becoming acquainted with all of Ivy’s gadgets to provide a comfortable stay.
Lemon chicken, corn on the cob with salad, followed by chocolate profiteroles – Saturday’s gastronomic dish using the cooker was tasty and a splendid start to our mini break. Sitting outside with a glass of rosé after dinner, we listened to the dusk chorus and a nearby trickling stream; hours drifted by.
After a lazy evening and a restful night’s sleep, we were up sharp next morning. We have a shower and toilet compartment aboard, but took advantage of the park’s excellent amenities.
Breakfasted and ready for a walk, we tramped uphill to Lanlivery. I had sold my handmade ceramics in the craft tent at the village’s Vintage Rally and Country Fair over twenty-five years ago, but had never explored further than the venue’s grounds and was eager to do so.
Red campion and other wildflowers waver along roadside verges. Before long, the Gothic architecture of St Brevita Church, with its square tower and pinnacles, is impressive on the crest of a hill. Its peaceful graveyard houses some grand tombs and monuments on land left unkempt, enabling wildlife to thrive.
Meat and vegetable aromas drifted from The Crown Inn across the lane. I visualised the Sunday dinner we were booked in for later when I noticed a sign for Puddle Farm Farmer’s Market, which runs monthly throughout summer and autumn.
I was elated when we arrived at the smallholding where ponies gazed over a fence. Further down in a courtyard, there was a seed-swap table, local produce for sale, a barbecue stall and a drinks vendor. The air was alive with the rich scent of roasted coffee and sizzling sausages.
Up stone steps, there was more on offer, including a local bakery and a potter selling exquisite pieces. I couldn’t resist two glazed bird-shaped hanging ornaments – a blue tit and a robin – my favourite species.
On our way out, we were asked if we had seen everything. On hearing our reply, a hand-drawn map printout was supplied. With only half an hour before dinner, we had a rushed but enchanting gander around the site. There are three bell tents with comfy-looking accommodation, a pig meadow, and a vegetable garden. Chickens clacked in their rustic coops, bees buzzed in the orchard, and ducks snootily waddled by, their beaks towards the sky.
After all the excitement, we managed to rush back to the Crown Inn, a renovated 12th-century longhouse, just before our reserved slot, where the cool interior, local ale, and a delicious meal were greatly appreciated.
Until next time,
Sue. X