I didn’t get sober to be “healthy”. I got sober because I nearly died — in the sea. At 6am.
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I’m taking you on a journey to a place straight out of legend: Merlin’s Cave in Cornwall. Yeah, you heard me right, we’re talking actual King Arthur territory here. If you’re into moody cliffs, crashing waves, and a spot so soaked in mystery that you can almost hear the magic, this place is for you.
First off, let me say this: getting to Merlin’s Cave is part of the experience. You’ve got to time it with the tides because this cave literally gets swallowed by the sea half the time. Nothing says adventure like a race against nature, right? But once you make it, the entrance to the cave is like something from a movie — jagged rocks, waves foaming at your feet, and this gaping black hole of a cave daring you to step inside. Trust me, it’s an Instagram moment if ever there was one.
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Inside? Pure eerie vibes. The light gets swallowed up, and you feel this weird, spine-tingling connection to the past. Is it haunted? Maybe. Is Merlin’s ghost gonna pop out and curse you? I dunno, but it sure feels possible. That said, it’s not a huge cave — more like a little pocket of intrigue. But somehow, it holds this weight of ancient magic. Either that, or the Cornish air just messes with your brain.
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Now, let’s talk about the view when you step back out. You’re hit with one of the most dramatic coastlines in the UK — wild cliffs plunging into the ocean, with the ruins of Tintagel Castle looming above like some Game of Thrones set piece. Perfect for that moment where you stand, hands on hips, staring into the distance pretending you’re some kind of medieval hero. Trust me, you’ll want to.
Final thoughts? If you’re anywhere near Cornwall, Merlin’s Cave is a must. Just be ready for a moody, windblown, slightly spooky adventure. Oh, and bring a jacket — because Cornwall, like Merlin’s magic, can be unpredictable.
Quit drinking on 23 July 2021 after a two-day bender and swapped bars for border crossings and 12-step meetings. Three sober years, 36 countries, 113 travellers (totally dry), fuelled by street food, jelly babies, and a broken Google Maps app. Wandersober is my journal, my SEO lab, and my mission. Featured in GQ, Mirror, Evening Standard, MarketWatch, and more.
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