Sunday 3 August 2014

Egmont Bight and Freshwater Step waterfall

A view across Egmont Bight towards Houns Tout, Chapmans Pool and in the distance St Aldhelm's Head, taken from the cliffs above Freshwater Steps waterfall. Dark grey Kimmeridge clays dominate the geology of this section of coast, fragile and subject to slides and collapse, the sea is often coloured by fresh its deposits. Freshwater Step waterfall is small, although it can be transformed during the winter months, what is notable though about the waterfall is the protruding Kimmeridge clay step which gave the waterfall its name. Sticking out into the sea as it does, even at low tide, it cuts across the beach creating an impassible obstacle, making a walk from Kimmeridge to Chapmans Pool along the seashore impossible.  We first found this out many years ago after walking the considerable distance from Kimmeridge, along what is in places is an arduous shoreline, only to be faced with the even more arduous walk back. There used to be steps up from the beach to the coastal path on the Kimmeridge side, steps we had hoped to climb in order for an easier walk back, though sadly these fell in to disrepair, decay and finally by the time we required them, oblivion. Today though, the walk was along the cliff top, in glorious sunshine and the views were equally as glorious. No matter what the season or what the weather the Jurassic Coast never fails to lift and inspire. 

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