Meet Andy and Lauren from Gylly Adventures and SUP Yoga
Tell us a little about your background and why you started Gylly Adventures
Andy: My background in adventure started as a boy scout many years ago and I have never quite got past the initial enthusiasm for everything outdoors. Since then I have worked in the adventure industry most of my adult life. Leading expeditions abroad and teaching outdoor adventure in two further education colleges, my most recent was at the Marine School in Falmouth. The opportunity to run Gylly Adventures was presented to me about two years ago. I couldn’t resist the chance to develop my own adventure company, showing people the best coastal landscapes and adventures that Cornwall and Falmouth have to offer.
What’s unique about what Gylly Adventures offer?
Andy: We offer lessons, hire and guided adventures in kayaking and stand up paddle boarding, as well as a range of other activities from coasteering to bush craft. We can cater for people who just want to hire equipment or want a tailored adventure covering a range of activities.
What do you love most about Falmouth?
Andy: I love the diversity of Falmouth. We are lucky to have so much beautiful coastline and rural beauty, but at the same time there is always a lively buzz happening around the town and so many fun events over the summer.
Lauren: My favourite thing about Falmouth is the crystal blue waters and secret coves away from the crowds – there is so much to do. In a fairly small town, many are surprised with how much goes on! Whether you’re after outdoor action or some indoor activity, Falmouth’s diversity has something suitable for everyone.
What’s your favourite summer activity?
Andy: My favourite activity to lead is our unique night tours because it gives locals in the area a new adventurous perspective on the coastline they know already. In my spare time, I love to surf and kayak – to be out on the water whenever I can!
What’s special about SUP yoga?
Lauren: We enjoy being able to provide such a different way for people to relax, surrounded by such a beautiful calming environment with an experienced yoga instructor. SUP yoga is a completely unique way in which to experience the practice of yoga. Being out on the water allows you to connect with nature and your surroundings in such a way that you feel completely present in the moment. SUP yoga is both challenging and invigorating but also leaves you feeling deeply calm and centered.
What would be on your must-do list whilst in Cornwall?
Lauren: Definitely try and visit all the best beaches. Depending on what kind of visit you’re looking for, both relaxation and activity is easily achieved. Watching the sunset, particularly from the north coast, also isn’t one to be missed.
Top tip whilst visiting Falmouth?
Andy: Gyllyngvase Beach of course!
Tell us more about the LED night time tours
Andy: Our LED night adventures are uniquely designed to let people see Falmouth at night…from the sea. For these special tours, we have green LED lights attached to the bottom of the kayaks or paddleboards, allowing you to see anything that might be swimming beneath you. It’s a spectacular way to see the wildlife. Gylly Adventures are the UK’s first and only LED night SUP providers. This really is a hypnotic journey that will leave you glowing!
When you’re not at work, where would we find you?
Lauren: Gone surfing!
How many people can book onto your tours and lessons?
Andy: We can cater to a whole different range of group sizes. We like to send two or more people out on a tour or lesson just to make things a little more interesting, and if the group is slightly bigger we can send out more than one instructor.
Does the weather affect your activities?
Andy: Not as much as you might think. Gylly has access to a number of venues, therefore if the weather conditions are unsuitable in one location we can re-locate to an alternative. Wet activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding and coasteering are fun in the rain, as in all likelihood you’re wet already.
Can you sum up Gylly Adventures in three words?
Andy: Friendly, fun and adventurous.
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Want to have a go at sup yoga?
Gylly Adventures now offer stand up paddle board (SUP) yoga sessions for our guests to try. Every Friday evening at 7pm and every Saturday morning at 7am, our hour-long yoga sessions will run. You can book by calling Andrew on 07341 890495.