I’ve done nearly all of the major walks here on Pitcairn. Highest Point I’ve visited twice, and Tedside, Down Isaac’s, and St. Paul’s Pool once each. The weather was supposed to turn foul today but I wanted to get up to Christian’s Cave. This is where Fletcher Christian sat and contemplated his fate. Breakfast was interesting this morning as I went to crack some eggs to make batter for French toast, one of the eggs was bad. Now I know why they say when you’re baking, to crack the eggs into a separate bowl because if an egg is bad then you have to throw out all of the ingredients already in the bowl. When I made the batter, a little tiny gecko was crawling around in it! Things came right as I eventually made some French toast. The way I’m doing a homestay here on Pitcairn is unprecedented; whilst I’ve stayed with hundreds upon hundreds of locals in dozens of countries, I’ve never stayed in someone’s home without meeting them first. Carol is currently in Tahiti receiving medical treatment and I’ll be taking her and her husband, Jay a thank you card upon my return to Pape’ete. As with many places, it’s always a good idea to let someone know where you’re going and what your plans are. Char knew I was going to Christian’s Cave and then I saw John and Ruby on the way. There is no mobile coverage on Pitcairn so if you fall and twist an ankle or worse, it could be awhile before help arrives. On the way to Christian’s Cave is Pitcairn’s first eco-trail, complete with signboards about both native and introduced plants. Some humungous leaves here:
One introduced plant is locally called a “grab a leg” which release prickly seeds that latch on to your clothing. The climb up to the cave was fairly steep but not too difficult.
At the top I took my shirt off and enjoyed the scenery. From there I had yet another gorgeous view of Adamstown and Bounty Bay.
Near Christian's Cave is a tunnel that's supposed to lead to another way down but I didn't see how it was any easier.
On the way back I had to check my shoes and socks for “grab a legs” and there were a few stuck to my foot. A bin is provided to prevent them being spread to other areas of the island.
Char would make curried chicken and pumpkin pilhi for dinner. Today was one of those days I didn’t really do a lot. After Christian's Cave I just took it easy today. The advantage of staying 11 days is that I could relax a bit, and go back to visit places you enjoy. The locals get to know you on a first-name basis as well. If I were only on Pitcairn for four days, which make up the majority of visitors, I’d be running around like a maniac. Ah, the advantages of being a long-term traveller...
