NEWYDDION / NEWS
FOOTPATH NO 12 BONT - LOUGHOR
City and County of Swansea Rights of Way Dept has finally completed the improvements along this fine footpath. Bridges have been repaired and many new wicket gates installed along the way. This walk is one of fifteen which have has been included in a new book highlighting railway walks along the Swansea to Shrewsbury line called 'Great Walks from the Heart of Wales Railway' (Kittiwake Press 2003) by David Perrott. (August 2003)
RAY AND ANGIE
Good luck to Ray and Angie on their new adventure to Sri Lanka. Ray has been a fantastic leader and a regular walker and we shall miss them both. (August 2003)
RHINOGYDD TRIP SEPTEMBER 2003
On Friday 6th September 19 of us made the 3 hour trip up to Llanbedr Youth Hostel near Harlech. When I arrived everybody had gone down the pub, the Victoria Inn. On the Saturday morning I was summoned by the manager of the hostel who complained about the noise which had carried on until the early hours of the morning. Unfortunately, a minority of the group led by Bobby Evans, returned to the hostel with a large amount of wine and without any shame continued to indulge in some serious heavy drinking. Consequently, I had to apologize to the manager on their behalf .
Frank was unable to join the party due to sickness and diarrhoea and wisely remained at the hostel. The rest of us drove up to Cwm Nantcol and parked near Maes y Garnedd Farm. We then walked down the road for approx.1 mile and then made our way towards the isolated stone bridge of Pont Scethin. After passing the monument, in memory of an elderly lady who once traversed these hills, the mist came down and remained with us until we climbed the summit of Diffwys- the first Hewitt of the day. It was at this peak that the mist temporarily parted and the magnificent panoramic view of the Mawddach estuary opened up in front of us. We then proceeded to Crib y Rhiw where we stopped for lunch. Unfortunately Bobby and Leigh had forgot to bring their packed lunches but were fed by the generosity of the group. At the foot of Y Llethr a small group decided to return to the cars while the rest continued upwards towards that peak and were amply rewarded with fine views of Tremadog Bay. The next stretch was a descent towards Llyn Hywel and than upwards to Rhinog Fach. By now the mist had disappeared. The descent to Bwlch Drws Ardudwy was slow and arduous - the last 100 feet being very steep and slippery. After a short break we then proceeded down the valley to the cars.
Saturday night, as expected, was very quiet and everybody awoke on Sunday morning to brilliant sunshine. The forecast was not good; heavy rain throughout the day. But as it turned out we had a lovely day and the forecast got it completely wrong ! We left the hostel and travelled 5 miles along a narrow road up to the secluded beauty spot of Llyn Cwm Bychan. It was pleasing to see that Frank had recovered and had joined us. From the lake we walked up the famous Roman Steps to the head of the pass at Bwlch Tyddiad. We then proceeded up and around Llyn Du and climed the summit of Rhinog Fawr. The descent to Bwlch Drws Ardudwy was again slow and was particularly difficult on the lower slopes. The Rhinogydd are renowned for difficult walking terrain and for promising paths which simply disappear. We had lunch at the Bwlch and then continued into the forest. We then followed a forestry track (the trees having been felled) towards the ruin of Hafod Gynfal and onwards over the open moorland to the empty farm of Wern Fach. The return leg took us past another empty farm, Wern Cyfrwy, and we then followed the path upwards through the pass of Bwlch Gwilym and then a quick ascent down to Llyn Cwm Bychan and the cars. On the way back a few of called in at Salem chapel - the chapel made famous by a picture painted there in 1910 by Curnow Vosper (1866 - 1942) where an image of the Devil appears in the shawl of an old woman.
NORTHERN CARNEDDAU TRIP MAY 2004
19 of us booked in at the Conwy Youth Hostel - a fine modern hostel with excellent food and friendly staff. Nevertheless the weather over the weekend was awful - cloud, low mist, wind and rain and consequently very poor visibility. On Saturday 8th May we decided to travel down to Aber Falls and bag the summits of Drum, Foel Fras and Bera Mawr- a 11 mile walk. From the car park at Bont Newydd it did not take us long to reach cloud level. Instead of walking up to Bwlch y Ddeufaen as planned we took a short cut along a track up to Drum and sheltered in the hollowed out cairn on the summit. I have been here twice before and each time the weather has been kind; not today though ! The next stretch was a tough climb up to Foel Fras- the only 3,000 footer of the day. After touching the trig point we climbed over the wall be means of a ladder stile and sheltered from the prevailing wind and had lunch. And talking of lunch I must congratulate Bobby and Lee for remembering on this occasion to bring their packed lunches ! Then it was all downhill. On arriving Garnedd Uchaf I set the compass in the direction of Bera Mawr but got it slightly wrong and missed the rocky outcrop . Nevertheless we were going in the right direction and soon we were following afon Coch down a delightful valley. There are some fine waterfalls along this river. Bobby mistook one waterfall for Aber falls and insisted on having his photo taken. By now we were at last coming out of the mist. We had a tea stop by the old sheep enclosures and then walked down to marvel at the real Aber Falls . (See the photo gallery). In the night some revellers (i.e Bobby and the gang) went down to the Liverpool Arms.
It was nice to wake up on the second day without having the manager wanting a word with me. We awoke on the 9th again with low cloud but the weather forecast in the hostel stated that the mist would lift during the day and that the sun may make an appearance. Today was a 9m linear walk from Llanfairfechan to Conwy. We caught the 9:50am bus to Llanfairfechan and walked up the village to the pretty dingle on Coed y Nant. On reaching the open moorland we were again walking in low mist and it was even lower than the day before !. After passing through the kissing gate we navigated up to Bwlch y Ddeufaen. The mist had lifted slightly on reaching this ancient thoroughfare. After visiting the two standing stones we started making our way up to the two 2000 footers of the day, Foel Lwyd and TalyFan. The ascent to the trig point is quite a trudge in poor visibility but the stench from a decomposed horse midway up did indeed break the monotony. After eating our lunch on Talyfan and while descending to Cefn Maen Ambor the mist suddenly cleared and for once we could really enjoy the views. Conwy Castle and the Great Orme could clearly be seen in the distance. We soon arrived at the scenic Sychnant Pass where some of us had ice cream. It was here that Gareth started to pay for staying up drinking until 3:00am in the morning. He will insist on burning the candles at both ends !!! We then proceeded up to Mynydd y Dre or Conwy Mountain where we were amply rewarded with excellent views. We then walked the short distance back to the hostel and our cars.
IRELAND MAY 2004 - WICKLOW MOUNTAINS
In early May five members of the club travelled to Ireland to spend a weekend walking with the Crossbridge Walking Club. In spite of Keiths dire predictions the crossing was excellent much to the relief of Val and Di who had emptied the local pharmacy of seasickness tablets. We stayed in the village of Tinahely where we had an excellent welcome plus cakes, tea and the enormous breakfasts from Madge the owner of a local B/B.
The tone of the weekend was set when the Crossbridge Club invited us to meet them some time after 10 p.m. in the local pub. The following day we met them at 10.a.m. and climbed Lugnaquillia which at 3039 ft is the fourth highest mountain in Ireland. The climb took about 4 hours and we were glad to find that some of the Crossbridge members were of a similar level of fitness to ourselves with frequent "lets admire the views" stops. Magnificent views and excellent weather - we were of course desperately sorry to receive a text from Gareth who was on the North Wales trip complaining about the rain.
After the descent we ryhydrated in Fentons pub where a diet of Guiness and christening cake soon revived tired limbs and set us up for another late evening in Tinahely - Keith swears that this was the first time he had to fight his way out of a pub in the early hours of the morning !
On Sunday we met the Crossbridge Club again and had a shorter walk along part of the Wicklow Way. Keith got very worried at this stage when he was advised that all Irish pubs closed on a Sunday - a little wind up from Marcella who was our contact in Ireland. Another short night ensued followed by a 5 a.m. start to catch the ferry from Rosslare - with another excellent crossing.
An excellent weekend and we want to pass our thanks to the Crossbrideg Walking Club who entertained us royally with particular thanks to Marcella and Jim Byrne. We have invited them to visit Wales and I am sure that more visits to Ireland will follow. Thanks to Di for driving my car at key moments - generally after leaving the pub -and for keeping the car the same shape and colour !
Denis
ANN AND MAUREEN'S PERU ADVENTURE JUNE 2004
It was great to see our intrepid explorers return safely to the Bont after walking the famous 'Inca Trail' in Peru. The snaps were excellent particularly those of the enchanting ruins of Machu Pichu and the surrounding mountains. There's no stopping these two. Last year it was Nepal; this year is was Peru. Where next ?
Y MOELWYNION / HEBOGAU SEPTEMBER TRIP 2004
On Friday 3rd September eleven of us made the trip up to Beddgelert- seven stayed at Bryn Gwynant Youth Hostel and four in B&B. On the Saturday we all drove the short distance to the pretty village of Croesor. The intention was to bag the 3 Hewitt's of Cnicht, Moelwyn Mawr and Moelwyn Bach. Unfortunately, due to the adverse weather conditions i.e. heavy drizzle, low mist and poor visibility we decided to follow a low level route.We headed up Cwm Croesor along the old tramline and climbed a couple of steep inclines to Bwlch Rhosydd and to the ruined slate quarry of Rhosydd. The ruined quarrymen houses known as 'Y Baracs' were very atmospheric in the misty gloom. The route then took us down past Cwmorthin to Tanygrisiau. En route we visited Plas Cwmorthin - clearly the managers house - and 'Y Gorlan'. Unfortunately. this chapel is now a ruin. After lunch we climbed the long tarmacadam road to Llyn Stwlan Dam; the rain had stopped and the mist was beginning to lift as had been forecast. Unfortunately, the mist soon returned and remained low for the rest of the day - so much for the Met's Snowdonia weather forecast ! We joined an old miners track and proceeded towards Bwlch Stwlan. In spite of the weather we decided to bag one Hewitt and climbed the easy path to the cairned summit of Moelwyn Bach. It was then all downhill along the ridge to the road which led us back to Croesor. In the evening we all wined and dined at the Prince Llewelyn pub in Beddgelert
On Sunday 4th the weather could not have been different and we awoke to brilliant warm sunshine and decided to bag the Hewitts of Moel Hebog, Moel yr Ogof, and Moel Lefn. From the car park in Beddgelert we made our way towards the old farmhouse of Cwm Cloch Uchaf and then started the long, tough ascent to the summit of Moel Hebog. The views from the top of this majestic mountain were very impressive- yr Wyddfa, yr Aran, y Moelwynion, Nantlle Ridge and Tremadog Bay were all clearly visible in the distance. We descended to Bwlch Meillionnen and then climbed the remaining hilltops of Moel yr Ogof and Moel Lefn. The return leg was along the paths and tracks of Beddgelert Fforest.
CYNGOR CYMUNED LLANWINIO COMMUNITY COUNCIL & FOUNTAINS plc - 2004
Hoffai Alan Richards ar ran y clwb ddiolch Cyngor Cymuned Llanwinio am agor ei lwybrau ar gyfer ein taith ar Dachwedd
14ydd 2004. Braf gweld Cyngor Cymunedol sy'n amlwg yn gwerthfawrogi ei lwybrau cyhoeddus. Hoffwn i ddiolch Fountains plc - perchnogion y coedwigoedd - hefyd am drwsio llwybr 19/24 yng Ngelli Wen. Yr ydym i gyd yn gwerthfawrogi eu cydweithrediad.
On behalf of the group Alan Richards would like to thank Llanwinio Commuity Council for re-opening its rights of way for our walk on November 14 2004. I would also like to thank Fountains - owners of the forestry - for reopening and restoring
Footpath 19/24 in Gelli Wen to its former glory. We very much appreciate all their efforts.
BERWYNION & ARENIG FAWR TRIP MAY 2005
On friday 6th May 2005 thirteen of us made our way up to Cynwyd Youth Hostel. Unfortunately, the YHA in their wisdom have decided to close this old mill after nearly seventy years of service (opened 1933). We all met up at the Blue Lion in Cynwyd and returned to the hostel with refreshments. We awoke on the Saturday and drove to Pistyll Rhaeadr - the highest waterfall in Wales. Our intention was to bag six hewitts on a 14 mile hike of the Berwynion. As we arrive the heavens opened and fortunately for us this was to be the heaviest shower of the day. After visiting the falls we walked up a delightful valley to Llyn LLuncaws and upwards towards Moel Sych, the first Hewitt of the day. We then followed the ridge an bagged the summits of Cadair Berwyn and Cadair Bronwen. The wind was bitterly cold along this ridge nevertheless the views of the surrounding countryside was great. We returned to Bwlch Maen Gwynedd where we had lunch. We the proceeded along Tomle, Foel Wen and onwards towards Mynydd Tarw, our final hewitt of the day. We then descended to Tyn y Ffridd and followed the public right of way past the empty farms of Bryn Gwyn and Gwern Feifod and a cutting in a conifer fforest to arrive at the road which led us back to the start. In the evening we assembled at the Prince of Wales for some refreshment.
On the Sunday 8th May we drove towards Bala and followed a minor road to our starting point below Arenig Fawr - our destination for the day. We walked along the metalled road past the hamlet of Arenig and after a mile and a half we turned right along a track which led us to Llyn Arenig Fawr. As we looked behind us we could see Llyn Celyn (a deeply controversial reservoir where a village, Capel Celyn, and a cultural way of life was destroyed in order to supply Liverpool with water. All Welsh MP's bar one voted against the construction of this dam- so much for democracy ! ) After visting the bothy at the edge of Llyn Arenig Fawr we began our ascent of the summit. As soon as we arrived at the trig point a cloud came over and dumped it's contents of hailstones upon us. As it was so cold we quickly read the memorial to the eight American aircrew whose plane crashed on the mountain in 1944 and hurried down the mountain to look for a sheltered lunch stop. We decided not the climb Moel Llyfant but decided instead to follow a track past the ruined farm of Amnodd -Wen back to the cars.
IWERDDON / IRELAND 2005
In mid September twelve members of the club visited Wicklow as guests of Arklow and Wicklow Walkers.
On the Saturday we met Brian King and his merry group who decided that a trip up to the the summit of Lugnaquilla
(3039ft) was a suitable welcome to Wicklow. This turned out to be an A class walk with a near vertical rock gully near the top. Ask Norman Richards if you need any more information on Gully Climbing. After suitable refreshment at a local hostelry we were invited to a Ceilidh in the evening. On being informed that the dancing took up ten years to perform properly a number of us applauded from the sidelines whilst a few of the more adventurous and agile ventured forth. The award for bravery and title for Welsh dancing King and Queen went to Margaret and Gareth Jones (proven that there is more going on in Hendy than we thought)
The following morning we were invited to visit Wicklow Gaol - ( a must do visit if you go to Wicklow). After being welcomed by the gaoler with some bloodcurdling stories of the gaol we attended the school that was held in the gaol many years ago. The matron of the school soon quietened the more unruly members of the group. I have never seen Eric so subdued - not for long though !!!!
Following this we walked in Glendalough - a beautiful valley and tourist area. We climbed some 500 plus steps to the top of the hills above the Valley. A word of congratulation to the local Heritage association who have done a superb job in providing environmentally friendly walkways. We could and should learn from this in Wales.
Again we were forced into a local hostelry where we bade farewell to our hosts. The welcome we received was excellent and we gave thanks for a wonderful trip. A reciprocal visit has been discussed and we would like to see our new friends here in Wales for a visit
LAUGHARNE - LLANDAWKE - LLANSADWREN WALK - NOVEMBER 2004
We would very much like to thank Mr Kevin Thomas, Carmarthenshire CC Footpath Officer, for ensuring that two obstructed paths were opened and waymarked prior to our walk. Diolch, Kevin.
PROPOSED FOOTPATH 10 & 12 DIVERSION Community of Pontarddulais
It is a concern that the City and County of Swansea are proposing to divert the above paths. The Council want to divert Footpath 12 -the fine wooden walkway through the reeds to the Old Church - to save future maintenance costs. The proposal to divert Footpath No 10 ,which follows the line of the old railway to Pentre Bridge, will result in an inferior route. The present elevated route offers fine views of the marsh and the surrounding area and this would be lost.
STOP PRESS: The proposals have been withdrawn.
DYFI HILLS & TARENNI TRIP MAY 2006
On Friday 12th May fourteen of us made our annual trip up to North Wales. This time we stayed in Kings Youth Hostel near Dolgellau and once everybody had arrived we made our way down to the George III pub in Penmaenpool for some grub and some refreshment. We were later joined by Bethina & Val and their partners who were staying in Dolgellau. We returned to the hostel and chilled out in the lounge. The more sensible ones retired early but the usual suspects stayed up drinking until the early hours of the morning. No names mentioned but they know who they are!
On the Saturday morning we awoke to very low cloud and the forecast was not at all promising particularly the forecast that Kevin had seen- torrential rain all day! The walk was to be a linear route across the Dyfi Hills starting from Dinas Mawddwy and ending at Minffordd- a journey of approximately 11 miles. (Margaret & Maureen opted for a more leisurely stroll along the Mawddach Trail). We parked some of the cars at Minfordd and then drove up to Dinas Mawddwy. Immediately from the start there was a steep climb to negotiate as the path meandered up through the woods towards the slopes of Foel Dinas. Ann & Alison found the going quite tough and were feeling under the weather; sombody should have told them that drinking both red and white wine isn't a good thing! Nevertheless they did recover as the day wore on. Soon after passing Bwlch Siglen we began our ascent of Maesglase. Very soon were were shrouded in mist and the precarious cliffs of Craig Maesglase looked quite menacing. We eventually reached Maesglase and the higher summit of Maen Du - the first Hewitt of the day. We decided to have our lunch on the southern slopes of Craig Rhiw-erch and as we sat down the mist suddenly lifted and the fantastic peaks of Cribyn Du and Craig Portas appeared before us. We then climbed Craig y Portas and decided to leave the path in order to bag Cribyn Du- the second Hewitt of the day. Unfortunately the mist descended temporarily and spoilt what would have been magnificent views of Cwm Cerist below. We rejoined the path and walked in the direction of Waun Oer. The climb to the summit was not as bad as it looked and by now even Ann & Alison were in much jovial mood - their earlier discomfort had now become a distant memory. From Waun Oer the ridge walk along Mynydd Ceiswyn was very pleasant particularly with the majestic Cader Idris towering before us. We finally reached the B487(T) at Bwlch Llyn Bychan and then followed the old road down below the crags of Craig Cwmrhwyddfor in the direction of Minffordd. Unfortunately, there were not enough cars to take us all back to the hostel so we had to do a couple of trips as the other waited in the car park. Bobby and Gary could not resist temptation and just had to visit the nearby Minffordd Hotel.
After arriving back at Kings we decided to visit Dolgellau. By now we were also joined by Kath & Martin who had drove up during the day and had climbed Cader Idris. In Dolgellau we all broke up into three groups and decided to eat at different locations but we all met up again at the Royal Ship Hotel. After some refreshments we all returned to the youth hostel. The lounge was full in the evening and we were all pretty quiet but that did not stop one person unconnected with our group - who was also staying at the hostel- from telling us that he had to be up early in the morning and that we had to go to bed. Some of us did retire at it was 12:30am but the others continued to socialize. Things came to a head when the same individual returned and hour later, turned off the lights and told our group what he thought of them. Geraint, having been offended by the foul language, told him in no uncertain terms that there was a polite way of telling people to to clear off to bed.
On the Sunday morning we awoke to brilliant sunshine and we were very soon on our way to Pennal near Machynlleth- our starting point. The plan was was to do a fine 10 mile circular ridge walk over the Tarenni. mountains and bagging one Hewitt- Tarrenhendre. The first part of the walk was along a road which climbed steadily upwards past the property of Pantyronn. We then proceeded along a track and past some ancient circular stones to the eastern slopes of Alltgwyddgwion. We then began the climb up towards the summit of Trum Gelli and its massive cairn. It was here that we decided to have our lunch. It was here also that Bobby's rucksack mysteriously disappeared and after some frantic searching the culprit was found. No names mentioned, Kevin! After lunch we continued past Tarren Cwm Ffernol to Tarrenhendre. We then descended back down to Pennal.
TAITH IWERDDON / IRELAND TRIP (MEDI / SEPTEMBER 2006)
Nine members travelled to Ireland to walk with the Dungarvan Hillwalking Club with our host being John Neylin who hailed from Cardiff - although we agreed not to hold that against him.
On the Saturday morning we met three members of the Dungarvan club with a view of climbing the Knockaunpeebra ridge. This was shrouded in mist so that the walk was changed to see the lakes in the Nire valley. When we saw the ridge we would have climbed on the Sunday morning a number of us were grateful for the mist. The walk went well until lunchtime when the mist descended with visibility down to 15 yards, or 14 metres for the younger members. As a result we had to walk using a combination of GPS and a good old fashioned compass bearing. Well done to Margaret, John and Richie for getting us home.
I am going to pass a veil over the Sunday night other than than to say that two of our members from Hendy entered into a drinking condition with some locals and came a bad second - not a pretty sight to see over breakfast on Sunday morning.
On Sunday morning we joined a number of Dungarvan members to climb the Mahon Falls. This was a very tough climb with the boys from the Hendy being very quiet but they got there. We then walked around the Falls area mainly through peat bogs (Maurice renamed them the Dungarvan Bogwalking Club after this). Following a descent from the Falls we retired to the Tudor House Pub for a spell of rehydration. One of our members was brave enough to ask a Manchester United supporter who scored the winning goal for Arsenal - I will leave this story until the Christmas dinner.
At dinner that night a great debate took place as the province in which the mountains of Mourne are located. This seem to involve half the restaurant at one stage with a number of opinions expressed - it turned out that they were in Ulster which means that a number in the restaurant and a certain Mr Hopkins were not too hot on Irish geography. Well done Geraint for knowing the correct answer but then his head was clearing by that time!!!
An excellent visit and our grateful thanks go to John Neylin and the rest of the Dungarvan Club who were excellent hosts. We have invited them to visit us and we hope they will take up the invitation.
Denis
OPEN ACCESS IMPROVEMENTS AT PENTREBACH (MARCH 2007)
The City & Council of Swansea Public Rights of Way department have improved access from Pentrebach to Graig Fawr Mountain by erecting a new stile above Craigfryn and clearing an overgrown path above Ty Newydd.
MOELWYNION & MANOD 2007
On Friday 11th May nineteen of us booked in at The Snowdon Ranger Youth Hostel on our annual trip up North Wales. Conveniently for some, the local pub 'The Cwellyn Arms' was located only a mile and a half away and everybody met up there. We then returned to the hostel where the most sensible ones retired to bed early while the usual crowd stayed up late making merry - an established curious custom by now! Nevertheless, Ann & Alison had learnt from previous mistakes and awoke in the morning with clear heads, unlike last year!
On Saturday we drove to the tiny village of Croesor which is located below Cnicht - an imposing cone shaped mountain also known as the 'Matterhorn of Wales'. Unfortunately, the tops were shrouded in mist as were Moelwyn Mawr, Moel yr Hydd & Moelwyn Bach - the other 3 Hewitts we had planned to climb. We were also joined at Croesor by Geraint's friends who made the journey south that morning from Ynys Môn. The ascent of Cnicht was not too taxing while the mist temporarily lifted at times revealing fine views of the summit and the surrounding countryside. Sadly, the weather was to deteriorate and the mist returned with a vengeance only to lift for a brief period at Rhosydd Quarry - a fascinating abandoned slate quarry located high on the mountain. We had lunch here and made the decision not to climb Moelywn Mawr due to the low mist. We decided to follow the old slate road down Cwmorthin Valley past the old chapel and lake towards Tanygrisiau. A long slog then followed as we climbed the road which led up to Stwlan Dam which certainly sorted out the men from the boys! On crossing the dam we returned to cloud level and the route upwards into the mist towards Bwlch Stwlan was very unpleasant. As the conditions deteriorated we then decided not to climb Moelwyn Bach but to follow a path back down the mountain and returned to the start. Again, the weather had the better of us on the Moelwynion. However, it has given us a good excuse to return. As the old adage says 'Tri chynnig i Gymro!'
In the early evening some of the group were told off for drinking their own cans of bow. The Youth Hostel has a licence to sell alcohol and therefore one can only drink alcohol purchased from reception. Andy didn't think much of the 'Moose piss' as he elegantly called it. We all had meals at the hostel while the usual crowd went down the pub and returned and ignored their strict licence laws. The LDWA London group - who were also staying at the hostel- looked in disgust as cans of bow were being passed around indiscriminatingly. The party continued until the early hours. However the sensible ones that retire early and who look forward to a good nights sleep can now purchase ear plugs at the hostel which certainly has the desirable effect of muffling out the noise from the rowdy revellers below. Fortunately for them there was no 'Victor Meldrew' type character staying at the hostel this year to tell them off.
We awoke on the Sunday (The worst day supposedly but which turned out to be the best!) and travelled to Blaenau Ffestiniog. Our intention was to bag the 3 Hewitts of Manod Mawr, Manod North Top & Moel Penamnen. We parked at Manod where Garry decided not to walk due to his blisters (or hangover!) and went to explore the town. The rest of us climbed upwards towards Llyn Manod - a fine lake located between Manod Mawr & Bach. Unfortunately, Gareth decided to turn back and seek out out Glyn Wise and ask for his autograph. His was faithfully accompanied by Huw. The rest of us climbed up towards the summit of Manod Mawr. The views from this fine hill were excellent. Frustratingly, the summits of Moelwynion, located directly to the west, unlike yesterday, were quite clear. We then proceeded to bag Manod Mawr North Top located just beyond the encroaching quarry. Catrin & Brian decided that the pace was too quick for them (not Geraint's fault this time!) and decided to explore Llyn Bowydd & Llyn Newydd. The rest of us proceed along the wet heather towards the fine summit of Penamnen where we had lunch while enjoying the fine view. Terry unfortunately had cramp which explains why he was miles behind! After lunch we then met up with Catrin & Brian and we proceed down through the quarries towards Blaenau Ffestiniog. As we descended the weather began to deteriorate.
EXMOOR & NORTH DEVON TRIP (SEPTEMBER 2007)
Approximately 22 of us made the trip over Offa's Dyke to our first and long awaited trip to Exmoor and the North Devon Coast. Denis, who arranged the trip, billeted us all at different locations within the pretty village of Exford. Unfortunately, Alan,Terry, Spencer, and Norman got lost on our way due to poor navigational skills of the latter. Terry said that he would have done better with his eyes shut! In the evening, Denis had arranged an evening meal for us at the Exmoor White Horse Hotel and refreshments followed.
On Saturday 18th September, we awoke to a miserable wet morning which was to get even worse. Margaret, Jackui & Glenda decided that Exmoor was not for them and decided to do some sightseeing instead. Gareth, must have wished he'd gone with them! However, he didn't get much sympathy from the group. We parked at Webbers Post and followed the low level Dunster Path in the direction of Brockwell. We then began, in fierce driving rain, the long climb up to Dunkery Beacon. At 1705 feet, this is the highest point on Exmoor. Unfortunately, due to the adverse weather conditions visibility was poor ,but despite this, Eric's wonderful navigational watch was not required! After we had waited for Gareth to arrive- which seemed like an eternity- we gladly descended the hill towards Bagley Coombe. We then proceeded towards Stoke St Pero Church where we had lunch. The final leg of the walk was along a fine bridleway which went through Cloutsham Ball woods. A thoroughly enjoyable walk which was marred somewhat by the atrocious weather. In the evening we again returned to the White Horse Hotel for some refreshments. Norman wore some snappy pink footwear which we all admired and Geoff donned some dashing white daps. We really do have some snappy trendsetters in footwear amongst our group. Oh yes, Gareth drank only pop!
On Sunday, we drove to Saunton, a seaside resort on the North Devon Coast for our second walk. Unfortunately, some of us got lost on the way (not your fault this time, Norman!) but we soon arrived at our destination. The weather for the day was to be more promising. From Saunton Sands we walked along a fine path towards Croyde Sand. Unfortunately, Sandra had a back injury and could not continue the walk. Croyde Sand seems to be very popular with surfers. We then proceed around Baggy Point and had lunch in sheltered spot overlooking the sea. In the distance we could just make out Rhosili Down. After lunch we continued along the coast towards Pitsborough Sand. The view we had of this large sandy bay towards Woolacoombe was breathtaking. We then began the return leg inland but the views were just as good. Lundy Island, only 12 miles away, was quite visible in the distance. The last viewpoint overlooking the wide expanse of Saunton Sands, was probably the best. Thanks Denis for arranging such an enjoyable weekend.
26 August 2007 ABERGAVENNY 3 PEAKS CHALLENGE (20 miles)
Eight of us attempted the above challenge walk on a very warm August morning. As were were arriving the three mountain tops of Blorenge, Pen y Fal and Ysgyryd Fawr were all shrouded in mist but this soon evaporated by the morning sun. We parked at the car park below Ysgyryd Fawr and walked the 2 miles down to the town of Abergavenny. We passed the remains of the Medieval castle and Ann, the leader, related to us the massacre that occurred there when local Welsh leaders were betrayed and butchered by the infamousWilliam De Breos. On reaching the Usk river the Blorenge, the first climb of the day, towered above us. We then crossed the Usk Bridge and noticed the original Medieval bridge hidden amongst the arches. We then proceeded through the tunnel which runs underneath the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal and began the long ascent up the north side of the Blorenge. On reaching the top we were rewarded with fantastic views of the surrounding countryside. On reaching the trig point we found that Margaret (who had gone a couple of hours before us) has left a note to remind us that there were only two peaks to go! On the way down to Govilon, Terry unfortunately lost his sunglasses. He must have lost them on one of his many tumbles down the mountainside. Soon we were walking along the canal towpath and decided to have our lunch outside the Bridge End Inn in Gilwern. After a well earned rest we then made our way towards the village of Glangrwyne and soon began the long slog up to Pen y Fal (Sugar Loaf). By now the sun was beating down on us and the going was getting a little tough. However, after drinking water and resting a while we were ready to bag the final hill of the day -Ysgyryd Fawr, which we could see in the near distance. On reaching the valley floor we were angered by a family of town dwellers renting an old farmhouse who were seemingly oblivious to the fact that their dogs were worrying sheep- so much for the Countryside Code! Soon we were climbing up the north side of Ysgyryd Fawr-a task made more difficult by aching legs and feet. Even Geraint said he was knackered. On reaching the top we just sat around and admired the panoramic views and then followed the pathdown along the whale back ridge accompanied by a brilliant sunset descending over Pen y Fal. We had been walking for 10 hours and we were all very satisfied that we had successfully completed the Abergavenny 3 Peaks Challenge Walk.
FRIDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2007 10th ANNIVERSARY DINNER
Approximately 37 attended the 10th anniversary dinner held at the Pontarddulais Rugby Club. It was quite an enjoyable evening and it was great to see some old faces again. Some photos of past walks were also shown on the large screen. Alan Richards talked about the history of establishing the walking club and Selwyn Williams presented Alan with a fine slate plaque. Diane Govier, was presented with flowers for organising the dinner.
SUNDAY 9 SEPTEMBER 2007 10TH ANNIVERSARY WALK
22 members attended the walk which was in fact the the club's inaugural walk held in September 1997. We walked up Fforest Hill and then proceed over Banc y Fforest before descending towards the A48. After passing Pentwyn Farm we followed the old road up towards Llwynteg (a large section of this track had been cleared by the council thank mainly to the efforts of Llanon Councillor, Neil Baker). After walking along fields we then followed a metalled road to Pont Sion Rhydderch where we had lunch on the banks of the Morlais Rivers We then proceeded towards Troserch Woods but were stopped by police who had closed the road after an unfortunate incident the previous night. There was no alternative but to retrace our steps, but fortunately, a gentleman by the name of Greg came to our aid and allowed us to walk through his property to access Troserch Woods. We then followed the riverside path to Llangennech. We soon arrived at yr Hen Gapel and then walked the mile or so back to the Bont. A most enjoyable walk.
11/11/07 Llanddowror
The walking club would like to thank Dan Pearce, Carmarthenshire CC Countryside Ranger, for reopening two neglected paths in Llanddowror in time for our walk in the area. We would also like to thank Mrs Howells for opening the church for us to see the tomb of Griffith Jones.
ARAN FAWDDWY & RHOBELL TRIP (MAY 2008)
25 of us made our annual trip up to North Wales. This year we had booked in at the Ffynnon Wen Youth Hostel near Cerrig y Drudion. On arriving we met up at the Saracens pub in Cerrig y Drudion.We then returned to the hostel where everybody had a nightcap before retiring to bed. Suddenly, we were entertained by a fantastic display of thunder and lightening. Unfortunately, Mervyn - a newcomer on the trip- succeeded in creating his very own thunderous display by keeping everybody awake by his loud and persistent snoring. Mike and Brian had to retire the lounge. Mervyn will have his own room next time!
On the following day (Saturday 10/5/08) we awoke to very low mist but things improved and we had, for once, a clear first days walking. 7 members went to bag Cnicht while the rest of us decided to visit the Aran area in order to bag six Hewitts. As it was a linear walk we parked some of the cars at the planned finish at Llanuwchlyn and then drove along the winding and narrow road up to Bwlch y Groes- the highest pass in North Wales. As it was a clear day we decided to extend the walk slightly by walking down the road towards Llanymaddwy and then up the pretty Llaethnant valley. After climbing the zigzag we then left the track and climbed the short sharp hill to bag Llechwedd Du- the first Hewitt of the day. The summit is marked by a handful of quartz stones which Bobby-for some inexplicable reason- found fascinating. (Pob un a'i glemau!!!). We then proceeded gradually towards Esgeiriau Gwynion - the 2nd Hewitt of the day - and decided to have lunch overlooking Bwlch Sirddyn and Cwm Croes. However, somebody forgot their sandwiches yet again! We then descended towards the bwlch and proceeded to tackle the hill known as Foel Hafod Fynydd (3rd Hewitt) - a climb which everybody agreed looked worse than it actually was. After waiting for Ann, Alison, Geoff, Mike and Brian to catch up we proceeded towards Creiglyn Dyfi - the lake located beneath the towering cliffs of Aran Fawddwy. The aim was to have a rest beside the lake but to Brian's annoyance Geraint, Kevin and Andy proceeded up the very long grassy slope towards Erw y Ddafad Ddu. Everybody else simply followed. This grassy slope was to be the most tortureous climb of them all. Even Ann and Alison found the ascent hard and they had only drank five bottles of wine the previous night. Bobby kindly offered to carry their rucksacks. Leigh, Geraint and Spencer made it look all too easy (I'm sure they are on something) while the rest of us made hard work of it. On reaching the top we then made for Aran Fawddwy. At 2,969 feet - this was the highest peak and the 4th Hewitt bagged. The views from the summit were fantastic but too hazy to see Penyfan to the south. We then retraced our steps back to bag Erw y Dafad y Ddu -the fifth Hewitt - where Ann & Alison had volunteered to stay behind to look after our rucksacks. By this time our limbs were aching but Aran Benllyn , the fifth and final Hewitt was within our grasp. After accomplishing our mission we then descended for 4 very long miles towards Llanuwchlyn -the end of the walk. As to be expected the walkers who were always in front were not slow in finding a pub, The Eagles Arms. Unfortunately, some of us had to coerce the drinkers to return to the hostel asap otherwise we would have been late for lunch; we only just make it! In the evening some members ordered a taxi to transport them down to the pub while the rest of us stayed at the hostel. We played an interesting game which Kevin is still trying to fathom out. Most retired early to bed but some were awoken by the rowdies from the pub most notably by Geoff Long and Mervyn Reid.
On the following Sunday morning we decided to attempt a short 8 mile walk by bagging two Hewitts in the Southern Arenig area, Rhobell Fawr and Dduallt. We parked in a foresty quarry at Moel Cae'r Defaid above Rhydymain Village. Helen, unfortunteely got lost! We were also joined today by Margaret and Maureen. Clive decided to visit Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake). Illtyd looked very refreshed on the account of the non alcohol drinks he had purchased the previous day. This was to be a very hot day again with hardly any breeze. Just below Ty Newydd y Mynydd we left the track an began ascending the hill by following a drystone wall towards the summit of Rhobell Fawr - the first Hewitt of the day. Due to complaints received on the previous day we decided to have a lengthy spell on the summit. Feeling refreshed we proceeded via Foel Gron to the beautiful but isolated valley of Cwm y Nant Lwyd. Fortuntately we had permission from Mr Jones, the landowner, to cross the bridge over the Mawddach River at Dolcynafon to reach Alltlwyd located a short distance away. During this time we discovered that we had lost two members who had decided to go walkabout. Having had lunch above the valley we proceeded towards the ford to cross the infant Mawddach for the second time. Fortunately, due to the recent spell of dry weather the river crossing posed no problems. We then proceed upwards along the northern ridge of Dduallt - the final hewitt. This climb proved to be very taxing due to the numerous blind summits encountered which had the effect of demoralising the weary walker. As we climbed we noticed menacing storm clouds gathering around us and thunder and lightening were quite evident in the distance which proved to much for Gary and Geraint who made a hasty retreat from the summit to safer ground. We all regrouped at the bottom of the valley and with aching limbs and several blistered feet we continued the short distance through the woods back the cars. A challenging but most enjoyable walking weekend - the most challenging yet perhaps.
CORNWALL TRIP 13th - 15th JUNE 2008
Sixteen of us travelled down to Cornwall for the weekend making Boscastle (or 'Bosco' as Terry would say) our base. Boscastle made national headlines in 2004 due to the floods which devastated this former fishing village. On arriving the elders of the group booked in at various guest houses in the village while the younger element booked in at the youth hostel - a fantastic hostel totally totally refurbished after the floods. In the evening we met up at the Cobweb Inn where Denis had booked us in for a meal at 7:30pm. Geraint could not resist having the fillet steak at the reasonable price of £20.00! Norman & Terry had a fantastic meal of cod & chips - the highlight of the meal being the batter, much better than the batter in the King Chip shop they said! Denis couldn't stick the pace so he persuaded Keith to go for an impromptu walk up the village.
After the usual first night of sleeplessness due to a strange bed and constant snoring we got up to prepare for the first walk of the weekend. We all met up at the car park and drove the short 40 miles down to Hollywell Bay, near New Quay. From Hollywell we walked along the coast towards Perran Beach, near Peranporth. Our leader, Denis, was sporting a lovely three quarter number; he was obviously making a fashion statement. On the way we bumped into to two real Cornish characters who were out walking the coastal path collecting money in aid to a local children's hospice. We all contributed generously. After walking along the wide expanse of Perran Beach we turned inland towards the vast area of sand dunes. Alison & Ann were by now feeling the pace after once again overindulging the previous night. Will they ever learn! On reaching the remains of St Piran Church we decided to have lunch. This particular church was finally abandoned due to the unrelenting encroachment of sand. We continued on our way passing near to a campsite where Geraint informed us he stayed during younger days - he wouldn't elaborate further! Soon we said farewell to Keith, Lyn, Catrin and Di who wanted to save their energy for the following day's walk. Norman was tempted to go with them but he would never have heard the last of it. We soon reached Crantock - a fine bay and rejoined the coastal path. We then followed the path for two miles past Porth Joke back to Hollywell. We lost Terry for a while who seemed to be struggling a little. But we did wait for him to catch up.
After arriving back at the hostel Geraint found a note from Brenda, the Warden at the hostel, telling him in no uncertain terms to make his bed up. Geraint obliged. We all met up again at the Cobweb Inn for food and refreshments. Gareth told us that he would not be walking with us on the second day as he had promised Lisa to go shopping with her and see the sights at Ilfracoombe - poor Gareth!
On Sunday 15th we all met up and drove the short distance to Poundstock - a hamlet with a fine Medieval Church. After walking through fields and wooded coombs and after Denis had taken a wrong turn (Lucky Keith was with us) we reached the fine rugged coastal path near Dizzard. Ann & Alison were looking very refreshed today; after all, they only had drank three bottles of wine the previous night! We then continued along the coastal path towards Millook. It was a beautiful clear day, so clear in fact that some of us could seethe DVLA in the distance! On reaching Millook some of the party, including young Garry, decided to take a short cut back to Poundstock while the rest of us fancied a challenge by climbing the steep looking hill out of Millook. Unfortunately, the lion of a hill turned out to be lamb! We then followed a path past Penhalt (almost certainly Penyrallt' ) back to the cars. Some of the more cultural ones on our midst us decided to visit Poundstock Church and view the fine Medieval wall paintings. Some of also visited the historic Guildhouse. We all thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would like to thank Denis for arranging once again a fantastic weekend. Diolch yn fawr!