Are rainy walks actually better?

This weekend has been one for catching up with friends. Yesterday, I was lucky enough to spend time with two great friends and their families. Today, I got to catch up with a uni friend and finally meet his lovely new wife.

To make the most of these opportunities, I have researched lots of new walks so I can keep working towards my goal. Today, I tried a new route along Tiverton canal (which I was only vaguely aware existed) and it was brilliant! The rain was pelting down and I gritted my teeth, determined to get my distance target and get home. But, as I left Tavistock and got out into the countryside, the walk got better and better.

The rain didn't stop but the trees offered some shelter and barely anyone else was walking so I had space and time to myself. The air was so clean and refreshing. I started to relax into the walk and actually began to enjoy it in spite of the rain and the muddy towpath. The further from town I went, the prettier the walk was. I saw and heard a range of birds including a Robin who I'm sure followed me along my route. On my return, I was privileged to see and follow a kingfisher as it darted along the canal, the electric blue flash initially catching my eye.

When I got back to my car, 5 miles later, I'd made my distance target and had a good, hard walk and I felt great. OK my boots were soggy and muddy and my legs were a little stiff from the cold but it was definitely worth the effort. 

But now I'm undecided. Yesterday's walk in the sun was gorgeous but today's in the rain was just as nice, although very different. Are rainy walks actually better?