The Northern Hemisphere meteorological winter began on Sunday, a bright and crisp dry day with dramatic clouds approaching from the west. Time for a quick drive to the beach for a bracing walk.

St Michael’s Mount is closed during the winter months, but you can still walk across the causeway at low tide to visit the village. The shops, cafés and toilets are all closed as well as the castle and gardens.

The sun is playing hide and seek behind the clouds and the blue sky is retreating further away.

The sunshine has attracted many people onto the beach and dog walkers enjoy the freedom of being allowed here during the winter months. I was hoping to perhaps see some birdlife, but the tide was out and there were probably too many dogs on the seashore.

Energised by our brisk walk we returned to the car after a warming coffee at the Godolphin Arms; crepuscular rays streamed through gaps in clouds and the sea shimmered in the light. Life is good.

Jo’s Monday Walks