The Monastery which currently houses sixteen monks.
A visit to Caldey Island was a must for cousin W and myself. We took a boat across in fairly calm waters on the second day of our break. The Cistercian monks of Caldey continue a tradition that began there in Celtic times. There have been more that 1000 years of prayer and quiet living which has made this Island a haven of tranquillity and peace.
Caldy Island Private Beach.
This lovely tranquil place is self sufficient and relies hugely on tourism during the summer months. The monks there produce perfume and chocolate, both of which are on sale at the local shop for purchase by visitors. The island is supported by a small team of locals on Caldey who help the monks with the upkeep of he Island and share in with their jobs of work.
There is a mass celebrated every day at 2.45. If you are a visitor you are invited to join in but it is no way mandatory. The peace and sense of community there is something I have not experienced elsewhere. The brothers are very aware of our changing world, and are doing all they can to live within their own boundaries, while interacting with modern life. The balance for them must often be difficult.
Mid sea transfer! This looks like a black & white
photograph, but it's not!
On our way back to Tenby harbour, the tide had gone out so we had to board an army sea-tank, complete with camouflage on the sides, and be 'driven' out to our boat. When our boat came alongside people had to transfer. This was fine until the current caused the boat to start drifting! This meant the boat hand had to circle again and re-group with us. It was all high drama on the sea!!! We eventually got everyone safely transferred and continued our journey back to Tenby quite safely. Another, lovely day ...
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