Cerdded y Bryniau/ Hillwalking
For further details please contact Jill Marson
Bwriad y Cerddwyr Bryniau yw cyfarfod ar ddydd Gwener cyntaf y mis, teithiau lleol fydd teithiau'r gaeaf a gobeithiwn gerdded Eryri yn yr haf. Gwirforddolwyr ymhlith y grŵp fydd yn arwain, ond nid oes unrhyw bwysau i wneud hynny. Ceir cefnogaeth cyn ac yn ystod y daith os oes angen. Cysylltwch â Gwen os oes gennych ymholiadau. Bydd yr enwau sydd ar y rhestr cysylltu yn derbyn ebost yn disgrifio’r daith 'Cerdded Bryniau' nesaf.
The Hillwalking Group intends to meet on the first Friday of the month. Winter walks may be in the local hills, in summer we hope to walk in Snowdonia. Walks are led by volunteers from the group, but there is no pressure. Please contact me if you have any questions. Once you are on the contacts list you will be emailed a description of the next Hillwalk.
Jill Marson
Annwyl Gerddwyr Bryniau / Dear Hillwalkers ( please scroll down for English)
Bydd y daith nesaf ar ddydd Gwener Tachwedd 4 i fyny’r Arenig Fawr gan gychwyn am 9-00. Janet fydd yn ein harwain.(01745 550288) Mae ganddi daith arall ar dir isel os bydd y tywydd yn ddrwg.
Cewch fwy o wybodaeth am y cyfeiriad grid maes o law.
Yn ôl dymuniad aelodau’r grwp, byddaf yn danfon y rhestr o offer angenrheidiol gyda phob neges o hyn ymlaen. Cofiwch gymryd sylw!
Cofion, Jill
Cysyllwch â Jill i gael gwybod mwy
Contact Jill for more details
Friday 1st March 2024
Llangynhafal to Cilcain – 9 miles, circular walk. 1716ft/523mtrs elevation gain
Due to the poor weather forecast, and on grounds of safety, the planned Glyn Ceiriog walk was postponed.
Huge thanks to Jill for choosing and leading an excellent alternative local route. And so, on St David’s Day 2024, 10 walkers set off in cold conditions on a circular, undulating, walk from Llangynhafal to Cilcain. Lunch was enjoyed in the community shop’s garden where a convenient bench accommodated us all comfortably.
Being at a lower level than the original route and NE Clwyd meant we escaped the worst of the snowy weather to enjoy a wonderful walk which ended, surprisingly, in sun. The walk was a little over 9 miles, total elevation 500+ mtrs. There were a few stiles and a fair amount of mud, much of which clung onto the boots!
Thanks to everyone for the company, good humour and support
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Friday 2nd February 2024
Betws Y Coed and Llyn Elsi circular walk – 6 miles, 1198ft elevation gain
12 walkers met in Betws y Coed and welcomed one new member to the group. It was a short-ish walk of moderate difficulty owing to the terrain. Taking the Jubilee path, the initial climb was steep up steps onto uneven, narrow, rocky forest trail/footpaths that were slightly slippery and tricky, then muddy. We reached the monument at Llyn Elsi, stopped for a short break then continued around the lake along paths that varied from wide to narrow, only two stiles and a few gates. At the time the weather turned into a drizzle a relatively sheltered spot was found for lunch.
The walk was led by Moyra, assisted by walkers’ GPS gadgetry, good humour and support. The main challenge was a long downhill section, very uneven underfoot, which was tough even on the best of knees! We crossed Afon/river Llugwy over the replaced replica for the historic Miners’ bridge to return to Betws Y Coed.
On a clearer day we would have been able to enjoy beautiful views of Snowdonia hills!
Click on any image for a larger view
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Friday 1st December 2023
Bodfari and Tremeirchion Figure of 8 walk – 6miles, 1,300ft elevation gain
As in recent years, the last walk of the Hillwalkers’ programme for the year, was shorter than normal in order to accommodate the group’s pre-Christmas lunch.
Led by Helen and Des 18 walkers met at the Dinorben Arms Bodfari. It was a clear, frosty and sunny First day of Advent. From the carpark we walked through St Stephen’s church yard before climbing into the Coed Y Llan hillside woodland, and above towards Sodom. We did a brief detour, before Graig Tremeirchion, to view the Ty Newydd cave from a distance and continued on a mix of road, tracks, woodland paths and sections of the ODPath in the Moel Y Gaer area.
It was a morning of blue sky, far-reaching views over the Vale of Clwyd and snow covered Snowdonia mountains. There were no particular difficulties on the route as many of the dilapidated stiles have been replaced by kissing gates, though some old stiles remain. Instead of the wet and muddy paths we often encounter it felt crisp and frosty underfoot. Many thanks, Helen and Des.
Huge thanks to Jill for coordinating the Hillwalkers’ programme with detailed preparation throughout the year.
Thank you, Merry Christmas and best wishes for 2024.
Click on any of the images below to view a larger version
Friday 3rd November - 7 miles, 1300ft elevation
Penmaenmawr
First many thanks, Jill and Raymond, for the usual detailed attention to planning, organising and leading a superb Hillwalk on Friday 3rd November in an area around and above Penmaenmawr.
Starting from Penmaenmawr 8 walkers followed the Wales Coast Path along the seafront before heading uphill, a stiff climb initially on paths and tracks that were slippery in places, passing through interesting sections of old quarries and industrial buildings.
During a stop for a short break, the weather considerably better than expected, we enjoyed some breath-taking views over the North Wales coast and Anglesey. Continuing upwards on mainly grassy tracks we joined the North Wales Path, passing by a number of stone circles and were met by yet more magnificent views.
After a break for lunch the route took us around Foel Lus and along the Jubilee Path before a steep descent, along small roads and good paths, back to Penmaenmawr.
Thanks Jill and Raymond, also to everyone for super company and a great day which ended with very welcome refreshments at Betty's café in the centre of town.
Click on any of the images below to view a larger version
Friday 6th October 2023
Brenig Way route – 11.6 miles, Linear walk. 1730ft elevation gain
First, thanks to Janet for leading the walk and to both Jill and Janet for organising the logistics of a linear walk. 16 walkers met in Corwen; a convoy of 5 cars to the walk’s end at Betws Gwerfil Goch; return of drivers in 1 car back to Corwen… to the Start.
We welcomed 2 new members to the group and set off towards the square before following the route of The Brenig Way (Taith Brenig) trail along a mixture of terrain, from country lanes to climbs and descents, good footpaths, grassy riverside paths and forest tracks. Some of the challenges included mud, slippery stiles, a gate to climb over and a few ‘dodgy’ bridges. Animal sightings and adventures involved negotiating the path with a disturbed cow with her calf and, close to the end, we were pleased to find ourselves the right side of a gate from a herd of long-horn cows which were accompanied by a noisy bull.
In clear conditions there would have been excellent views of Snowdonia. Friday’s weather was as forecast - rather damp, cloudy, slightly windy with a dash of drizzle nevertheless the views were wonderful. A bonus of an autumn walk is ‘It is the season to be …’ mushroom picking!
Thank you Janet for a great walk through beautiful rural landscapes.
Friday 1st September 2023
Dolgellau area - Cregennen Lakes – 9.25 miles, circular walk. 2,000ft elevation gain.
Contrary to the weather forecast Friday was a warm, partly sunny, although exceptionally humid day. Ten walkers met at the Ty Nant Car Park, near Llyn Gwernan, below Cadair Idris to start a Figure of 8 walk, led by Nigel Horrocks.
Leaving the carpark we left the crowds behind to walk on good footpaths and a short section on a quiet country road past the King's Youth Hostel and Rehoboth chapel ruin. There were a few stiles, some boggy moorland areas and three rocky scrambles along the distinctive Pared y Cefn Hir. There were spectacular views along most of the route with panoramic views from the summit of Pared Y Cefn Hir which included Cadair Idris, Snowdonia mountains, Cregennen Lakes, Mawddach Estuary and Barmouth bridge.
Many thanks, Nigel, for leading a walk in such a stunning area - a wonderful combination of picturesque mountains, clear lakes, colourful heathers and other flora.
For Info:
Llynnau Cregennen – the origin of the name of the lakes refers to a time in 12th Century when criminals convicted at Llys Bradwen would be hanged (crog gangen = ‘hanging branch’) from the branch of a large oak tree.
Rehoboth Chapel Ruin (Cefn-yr-Owen, Islawr Dref)
The Chapel was first built in 1834, rebuilt in 1870 and again in 1885. By 1978 it had fallen into disuse and by the 1990s stood in ruins, although the cemetery remains in use.
Friday 2nd June 2023
Cwm Bychan – 8.00 miles, circular walk.
On a lovely, sunny Friday morning 8 walkers met at the National Trust Aberglaslyn Car Park for the start of a walk led by Brian Johnson. We walked steeply up through Cwm Bychan, had a short break at the top to enjoy the views, hear cuckoo song and then descended on a rough rocky path to Llyn Dinas where several visitors were enjoying themselves at the lakeside.
After Llyn Dinas the route up through, the welcome shade of, woods was uneven with rocks and tree roots. On route and during a lunch break more cuckoos were heard and we enjoyed wonderful scenery, the cloudless sky allowing great visibility of the Watkin path and Snowdon summit. We returned through the Nantmor Valley, with a short road section, again to the sounds of more cuckoos.
Many thanks - to Brian for preparing and arranging such a wonderful June walk – set among fantastic and varied landscape including lake; superb mountain views; paths that were steep, rocky, boggy and grassy in places; lots of ladder styles; remains of an industrial past.
Thanks also to everyone and at least 5 cuckoos for a great day which ended with welcome refreshments at Siabod Café.
Friday 3rd February
Gwytherin
Seventeen members of the hillwalking group set off from Gwytherin, near Llansannan, for a most enjoyable walk on 3rd February. Led by Janet, we negotiated muddy tracks and boggy paths, several tricky stiles with missing steps and a few immoveable gates to be climbed, also a number of steepish climbs - but only one descent? Most of the time we were up on top of the hills, with views over remote valleys and isolated farms, and when the cloud cleared could see over to Snowdonia in one direction and Moel Famau in the other. But after 10 rugged miles we all returned safely to Gwytherin, to find the pub open especially for us, with a log fire burning and a choice of beer or cider, tea or coffee (and some delicious brownies).
Friday 6th January 2023
Happy New Year! Blwyddyn Newydd Dda.
Llanbenwch Caravan Park – 7.25 miles, linear walk.
It was a very good start to 2023 for 14 walkers.
Led by Nigel, we set out from Llanbenwch Caravan park, walked along public footpaths to Ty'n Llanfair before gradually ascending at Faenol via a wooded valley to Coed Talwrn. Initially the weather was not as forecast but as we gradually ascended via Bryn Aur to the real summit of Mynydd Cricor (340m - 1,115ft) and then the trig point by Mynydd Cricor (329m) the skies cleared and the sun shone to reveal the splendour of the Clwydian hills.
We descended to contour eastwards towards Plas Bedw then, via wooded valleys, towards Llysfasi College. We were advised (warned!) that, walking at the head of the Vale of Clwyd an area seldom visited, there would be some very neglected stiles and the odd rickety gate to climb over. That was indeed so!
Many thanks - to Nigel for detailed preparation and arranging such a rewarding New Year walk. Thanks also to everyone for a great day’s walk and especially to Jenny and Jim for providing a ‘taxi’ service (to avoid excessive road walking) back to Llanbenwch for a lunch at the sheltered outdoor café.
Friday 2nd December 2022 Old Colwyn linear route to Llanddulas
5.5 miles 250 mtrs elevation
Friday 2nd December was the last walk of the Hillwalkers’ programme for 2022. By coincidence, it was also the last day of a Iolo Williams’s “Five day Best of North Wales Tour”. 16 u3a Hillwalkers met at Llanddulas beach which happened to be the same place and time for Iolo’s group (also a flock of Pink-footed Geese was flying west along the coast, apparently rare birds here, and in the distance and haze there were huge flocks of Common Scoter on the water).
On leaving the beach carpark we, first, had a bus ride into Old Colwyn to begin the linear walk. Led by Jill we walked from Colwyn Bay, downhill, almost to the seafront then climbed, following the North Wales Path, into the hills to the south.
Reaching Llysfaen we had a brief stop for refreshments and enjoyed the sights before the descent back to Llanddulas. It was a dry, slightly hazy day, good views over the coast towards Llandudno, great scenery to the south, with views towards Abergele and beyond. There was the added reward of especially impressive and atmospheric skyscapes.
Many thanks to Jill, and Raymond, for the meticulous arrangements and for coordinating not only this walk but the year’s programme. We finished with a group pub lunch at The Harp, Abergele.
Friday 4th November 2022
Llangwm circular route including Foel Goch and Garnedd Fawr
8 miles, 530 mtrs elevation.
9 walkers met at Llangwm village church for the start of November’s walk led by Moyra. First there was a steady climb to Foel Goch (607mtrs) followed by another to Garnedd Fawr (565mtrs) passing several Boundary Stones on route.
The terrain was mixed including tarmac lane, footpaths, fields and wet moorlands, descending via tracks to return on the road to the village.
After a week of mixed weather Friday was a welcome dry day, despite the threat from a dark cloud as we stopped for lunch. It was occasionally windy with sunny periods which allowed good views of the Berwyns and Bala Lake.
Many thanks to Moyra for making the arrangements and to everyone for a great day’s walk with much enjoyment, encouragement and help from everyone and various GPS/OS gadgets to keep us on track - much appreciated by the leader!
Friday 2nd September
Moel Eilio, Moel Gron and Moel Goch - circular route from Llanberis - 10 miles, 766mtrs elevation
Led by Berwyn, 9 walkers met in Llanberis. We walked through the village to start the climb to the summit of Moel Eilio (726 metres). Reaching the summit we stopped for a lunch break and enjoyed the spectacular views of the Snowdonia range of mountains to one side and the coast to the other. We followed the grassy, undulating ridge southeast, taking in the further summits of Foel Gron (593mtrs) and Foel Goch (605mtrs). The route was then steep downhill via a necessary stop at the Pen Y Ceunant café, to quench the thirst, before the sharp descent back to Llanberis.
It was a hot and humid day; panoramic views of Menai Strait and Lleyn, Nantlle Ridge, Snowdon and Glyderau, and Llyn Dwythwch.
Many thanks – to Berwyn, Jill and Raymond for making the arrangements and to everyone for a great day’s walk.
Diolch.
Friday 5th August 2022
Capel Curig, Crafnant and Geirionydd Lakes – circular route from Capel Curig
10.30 miles 565.0 mtrs elevation
No-one was able to do last month’s walk but on Friday there were five walkers, one of whom was a new member to Ruthin u3a who was welcomed to the Hillwalking group. Friday’s walk, which had been originally proposed for July, was led by Nigel.
From Capel Curig we enjoyed a varied and scenic 10.30 miles walk with some steep climbs and descents – overall 565 mtrs elevation. The weather was varied too with several short periods of showers between the warm sunshine. First we headed into the mountains up a long valley ending between Crimpiau and Clogwyn Manod. The path then descended to Llyn Crafnant, along the north side on an open forestry track, at the end of which the route cut right to take a rough path across to Llyn Geirionydd emerging near the monument. We followed the northerly shore along a mixed path and track before a stiff ascent on a forestry track up the flank of Mynydd Deulyn before joining a fairly steep footpath descending back to Llyn Crafnant. After a short section along a quiet road we re-joined the original path back to Capel Curig.
Thank you Nigel for leading the walk and for your meticulous preparations (twice) and to everyone for a great day’s walking. The woodpecker, Carneddau ponies and a Siabod café scone at the end all added to the day’s enjoyment!
Friday 3rd June 2022
Llangollen - Eglwyseg Cliff Tops – linear route from Ponderosa to Chainbridge, Llangollen.
The plan was to escape the crowds who are drawn to Snowdonia over Bank Holidays and our leader Nigel, succeeded with this interesting, undulating, linear route where the few people we met were on the lower levels only.
10 walkers, well prepared for customary British summer weather, set off from the Ponderosa, Horseshoe Pass. We had an uphill start, across open moorland, a lengthy descent to World’s End followed by a steep climb to the top of the Eglwyseg escarpment. We enjoyed an undulating walk along the cliff top, on good footpaths, before descending Trevor rocks to navigate the base of Castell Dinas Brân to arrive at the canal path to reach the finish.
We had the Eglwyseg cliff-top to ourselves apart from some occasional sheep with young-ish lambs. There were superb panoramic views and the cuckoo was heard again this month.
Agh, the stats! Either 17.42 km long and total ascent of 626m, or in 'Johnson' measures: 10.8miles and 2054ft. Or, a different GPS gadget claims 11.2 miles and 533mtrs total elevation! Can we agree that it was long, and hilly? And very enjoyable.
Many thanks - to Nigel for making the arrangements and to everyone for a great day’s walk. Special thanks to Jenny for making a linear walk possible by providing a ‘taxi’ service between start and finish for the car drivers.
Moelwyn Mawr circular walk
Friday 6th May 2022
The weather forecast was Rain from 3pm. Wrong!!
Photos of the 6 eager walkers who met at Tanygrisiau to start the climb, first, to the Stwlan dam and Llyn Stwlan reservoir followed by the ascent to Moelwyn Mawr are evidence of the wet, windy conditions along with full-day cloud cover the U3A hillwalkers weathered!! Well worth the challenge with the bonus of a cuckoo briefly singing on our descent.
4 years ago on 4th May 2018 I wrote – “Our pictures capture the extent of cloud and we confirm absolutely (courtesy of maps, compass, GPS gadgets! and without doubt) that Cnicht’s summit was reached by all” – transpose Moelwyn Mawr for Cnicht with an added Trig Point and the same could be said for today’s walk!
Today’s route started on tarmac which soon developed into rough rocky ground, stony paths and slate tracks as well as patches of marshy ground. We passed the remains of the Rhosydd and Cwmorthin quarries on our descent to Tanysgrisiau having enjoyed relative shelter at Rhosydd quarry for a lunchbreak. We passed a chapel ruin, Capel Rhosydd, as well as the remains of the Quarry Manager’s house.
One walking website states “under anything but perfect conditions, they (Moelwynion) can be highly challenging to navigate and keep your feet dry” (mudandroutes). Thanks to Jill’s planning, expertise and navigational skills we followed the pre-planned route, deliberately missing out Moelwyn Bach due to the conditions, and returned to the starting point exhilarated, and with dry feet! After 6.37miles and 659mtrs total elevation we arrived back in time to enjoy a cuppa at the Lakeside Café.
Our thanks to Jill and Raymond, and everyone for a great day, an enjoyable and successful walk. Excellent preparation and good advice resulted in 6 walkers setting off and (the same 6) returning safely.
Friday 1st April 2022
4 Lakes, Gwydir Forest, Llanrwst
On Friday 1st April 2022, led by Moyra, 9 walkers met at Llyn Sarnau carpark to start a circular walk taking in 4 lakes in the Gwydir Forest Park. First, we walked to Llyn Sarnau, a lake built in 19th C to provide water for lead mines. Next was Llyn Glangors, followed by Llyn Geirionnydd and Llyn Bodgynydd.
Despite hail the night before, Friday was a dry, sunny, slightly windy day for our hillside walk along forest roads, narrow paths, lakeside paths, lanes and uneven surfaces. A little mud, a few rocks and many tree roots added interest on route as did the lovely sights of some snow-capped distant hills. On the shore of Llyn Geirionydd we past the stone monument, with its wooden cross on the top, commemorating reputed birthplace of Taliesin Chief Bard of the 6th century.
Many thanks everyone for an enjoyable day.
Friday 4th March 2022
Cyffylliog – Fig of 8 route from Cyffylliog up to Foel Uchaf
Led by Janet 14 walkers met in Cyffylliog close to the Hearse House (erected 1823) and St Mary’s church (picture attached). Starting from the village the stretched Figure of 8. route took us alongside the Afon Clywedog, then Afon Concwest, before climbing steadily towards the Clocaenog forest and Llyn Clywedog. After a forest stretch it descended high above the Afon Clywedog before rejoining a lane. On leaving the lane we climbed over Foel Uchaf before descending to return to Cyffylliog.
We enjoyed a few muddy sections, forestry tracks and some paths overgrown with gorse and brambles. There was sun interspersed with dark clouds and blue sky, spots of rain, some wind and lots of enjoyment on this 10.85miles walk (range 10.7 – 10.9 according to various GPS gadgets!!) including 535mtr total elevation (again, varies according to GPS gadget); time for photos on route and time to appreciate great views. Many thanks - to Janet for arranging a great walk and to everyone for an enjoyable day.
Friday 4th February 2022
Llandegla – 8.25 miles, circular route from Llandegla, total elevation 360mtrs.
Led by Brian Johnson 12 walkers met in the village of Llandegla on a chilly, sunny morning. Starting from Llandegla we followed the Offa’s Dyke Path onto the Clwydians. Leaving ODpath we climbed to the highest (411 mtrs) point and the windiest (!) at Moel Y Waun. There was a light dusting of snow underfoot. The views at the summit were wide and spectacular. The route descended and we visited the remains of a medieval motte and bailey castle where we lunched, in the sun. We came across the ruins of old buildings and very old stone - Carboniferous Limestone rocks formed between 363 and 325 million years ago. Not far from the finish we made a short detour to visit St Tegla’s well – once renowned for its healing properties in curing epilepsy which entailed sufferers first having to undertake a most elaborate ritual, after sunset!
Many thanks - to Brian for a great walk and to everyone for an enjoyable day. The end of walk ‘cuppa’ in the village shop/café was an added bonus!
Friday 7th January 2022
Happy New Year! Blwyddyn Newydd Dda.
Bwlchgwyn – 8 miles, circular route from Bwlchgwyn via Ffrith.
Led by Des and Helen 11 walkers met at a lightly snow covered area by the war memorial at Bwlchgwyn for the first group walk of 2022. We walked on the route of old Roman roads, over a pack horse bridge and along part of the original Offa’s Dyke and enjoyed shared knowledge and history commentary on route. ‘Trekking’ through fields at the beginning, over numerous stiles, through lots of mud and along forestry paths we visited Ffrith village x2 on a Fig. 8 course, enjoyed lunch in the memorial park which Des had kindly arranged for the community hall to be open for us to use toilet facilities.
8 miles long, 550+ metres climbing and of all our walks, this one I hardly took any photos – sorry hence couple of GPS elevation plots!
Friday 3rd December - Gwaenysgor
Led by Jill and Raymond 12 walkers met at the Eagle and Child in Gwaenysgor for the last of the Hillwalkers’ 2021 walks. After the recent storm Arwen we were blessed with a dry day, and tested by numerous stiles as well as a few surprises on route. Within yards of the beginning we were faced by the first closed path due to storm damage. Undeterred our leader re-routed the walk to re-join the planned route on to Offa's Dyke Path on the hillside above Prestatyn where we enjoyed far-reaching views.
We headed downhill towards Prestatyn through fields before heading south to Gop Hill, the second-largest neolithic mound in Britain after Silbury Hill in Wiltshire. The woodland path up towards Gop Hill was the most challenging of the day’s route – rather like a ‘Celebrity Get me Out of Here’ encounter it was quite an undertaking climbing over and crouching under fallen trees and branches, and exposed roots. Returning to Gwaenysgor we followed paths and tracks making the day’s undulating walk 6.25miles long, 430mtrs total elevation.
Thanks - to everyone, for an enjoyable and safe day’s walking. Particular thanks to Jill who coordinated the programme with detailed preparation throughout the year. We ended 2021’s series of walks with a welcome pre-Christmas lunch at the Eagle and Child.
Thank you. Merry Christmas and best wishes for 2022.
Friday 5th November – Dee Valley
15 walkers met at Horseshoe Falls car park Chainbridge, Llangollen, for the penultimate walk of 2021. We boarded a bus from Berwyn Station to Llidiart Y Parc which took us to the start of our walk along a section of the Dee Valley Way.
Leaving picturesque Llidiart Y Parc the route went up into the hills above the Dee heading towards Llantysilio Mountain. There were steep slopes, rough ground as well as short sections of road and several stiles.
The walk, on a dry, mild November day was 8.75 miles long with 470mtrs total elevation.
Autumn was in evidence with its spectacular colours along the route and weather permitted distant views across the valley – see photos taken by some of the group.
Thanks, everyone, for an enjoyable day’s walking and ‘debrief’ over a cuppa! Particular thanks go to Carol and Nick for their detailed preparation of both the walk and bus timetable.
Frida 4th December 2020
Who would have predicted the year we’ve all been through?
Joined by a new member to the Hill Walking group, 18 walkers gathered at Llanfair DC on Friday 4th December for the final walk of 2020.
Led by Nick and Carol we explored the area between Llanfair DC and Pwllglas, including the limestone ridge of Graigadwywynt. The 7 mile, figure of 8, route passed through varied landscapes. from the grade 1 agricultural land in the Vale to the limestone pavement on the Graig, also through several areas of woodland, and two nature reserves.
Thanks - to Nick and Carol for preparing and leading us on an interesting, undulating and very enjoyable walk; to Des and Helen for their introduction to the fascinating Coed Cilygroeslwyd Wildlife Trust nature reserve; and to everyone for great (Socially distanced) company. Final thanks to Jill for coordinating the year’s programme of walks, and the behind-the-scenes (Covid 19 regulations) preparations which ensured another safe walk. Sadly, no pre-Christmas lunch to end the 2020 year.
How lucky we are to live in such a wonderful area and to be able to enjoy relative freedom. Nadolig Llawen, see you in the New Year.
Friday 2nd October – Clawddnewydd, Melin Y Wig, Derwen
Another good turnout on Friday with 17 walkers setting off from Boncyn Foel carpark, near Clawddnewydd. Threatening rain gave way to cloud, followed by glimpses of sun and only the last mile, or so, of our 8 mile walk was there (real) rain!
Led by Jim, the route took us through Melin Y Wig and Derwen along a mix of quiet roads, paths and woodland tracks that provided several points of interest, history and beautiful views.
Close to the start, colourful fungi interrupted the dark green-brown forest floor landscape; a little later a short detour took us to an Iron age burial ground and towards the end, we visited Ffynnon Sara (dedicated to the 6thC bishop Saeran of Llanynys).
Thank you, Jim, for preparing and leading the walk – and in such a peaceful area. Thank you everyone for the companionship and enjoyment. Thanks, also, go to Jill for coordinating the walk programme, checking out car-parking arrangements and all things to do with ‘Communication’ and keeping the group informed.
Diolch.
Friday 4th September
A great turnout for Friday’s walk. 17 U3A walkers set off from Graigfechan on 4th September, led by Nigel who guided us along a very enjoyable, undulating and meandering route of a little over 8 miles with total elevation of 540mtrs, possibly 600mtrs, depending on specific digital gadget reading!
Starting from Graigfechan village we walked up into the hills taking in parts of the Offa’s Dyke Path and Graigfechan walk plus a slight detour to appreciate the stunning views from Moel Y Plas.
Thanks - to Nigel for preparing and leading the walk, - to Nick for providing the rope to aid the abseil section (no joking) and – to everyone for the company, fun and humour therapy.
Friday 7th August
After several months of suspended walks and the recent easing of Lockdown restrictions it was great to be out walking with the U3A Hillwalking group again on Friday 7th August. Led by Jill 7 of us enjoyed a circular, undulating walk on a hot and humid day.
Starting from the Graig Fawr car park we walked in the hills overlooking Meliden and Prestatyn, partly along the Offa’s Dyke Path, passing a number of viewpoints. Lunch break was taken at the summit of Gop Hill where we enjoyed extensive views of the coast, the Wirral, Clwydian hills and Snowdonia. After lunch the route took us past two well-known historical sites - Gop cave and large Dovecot.
Thanks to Jill for preparing and leading the walk - a little over 8 miles, 500 meters total elevation with stunning views, rolling farmland and ancient history.
Prestatyn Hillside is important for wildlife and is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest where wildflowers thrive on the limestone hillside.
Excavations discovered the remains of 14 Neolithic people buried in a crouched position in Gop cave.
Gop Farm dovecote is said be c1600.
Friday 6th March
Starting from The Café at the Source carpark, Ty Coch Barns Llangynhafal, 12 walkers led by Des enjoyed a circular and undulating upland walk over the Clwydians to Cilcain where we lunched in the community park. The early frost soon gave way to a sunny, calm and wind-free Spring day. Views in all directions included a range of Snowdonia hills as well as Merseyside and Cheshire landmarks. Wildlife and nature and the sight of young lambs and daffodils blooming reminded us that Spring 2020 has sprung. Close to the reservoir grey-tailed wagtails were spotted.
Just short of 10 miles, over 600 meters total elevation, a fair amount of mud and many stiles of varying decrepitude. The most challenging, slightly perturbing, episode came close to the end – a highly agitated cow. One could almost visualise her steaming and snorting as she charged downhill and (fortunately) failed in her attempts to jump the boundary fence. No harm done to walkers or animal.
Thanks to Des for preparing and leading the walk, and to all for sharing their knowledge, humour and support, as usual. A great day - completed with welcome refreshments and home-made cake at the Ty Coch Café.
Friday 3rd January 2020 - Crimpiau
Blwyddyn Newydd Dda, and it was a Happy New Year for the 15 walkers, led by Nigel, who set out on the first Friday of the new decade to walk to the summit of Crimpiau. The weather was kind and views magnificent – highlights included the Snowdon horseshoe and Mymbyr valley, the Ogwen valley and Llyn Crafnant. The company was super too.
The 6.5 mile circular walk started at Siabod café, Capel Curig at 193mtrs with a gentle steady climb followed by a couple of slightly steeper sections before reaching 475mtrs – the top of Crimpiau. Delighted by the views but windswept at the top lunch break was taken just a few meters below in the comfort of relative warmth - courtesy of the sun and shelter from wind. The steep descent was a challenge for many reasons including the gradient, mud, plus boggy and slippery sections underfoot. We can report that there were a number of falls but no injuries – none that affected anyone’s appetite for a Siabod Scone at the end!
Thank you Nigel for leading the walk and for your meticulous preparation and advice. Everyone completed the walk safely and enjoyed a great January day in Snowdonia.
Friday 1st November 2019 - Bodfari
Led by Hilary 9 walkers enjoyed a 7.5mile moderate walk on a dry and mild November day. Starting from Bodfari the walk included sections of woodland, the old railway line (rail station closed around 1962), taking in Moel y Parc and joined sections of the Offa’s Dyke Path. We climbed over a number of styles and, after the recent rain, ‘waded’ through a little mud too.
Autumn was well in evidence on Friday 1st November: sculptured pumpkins perched close to the start at Bodfari, spectacular hues of leaves and berries along the route, as well as extensive views across the valley and over to the coast.
Thank you Hilary and everyone for an enjoyable day.
Moyra
Friday 6th September - Moel Ellio
We were led by Idris on Friday 6th on the moderately difficult Moel Eilio (726mtrs) circular walk starting from Llanberis.
Despite the rainy start, and finish, the mix of cloud and sun along the grassy undulating ridge and summits of Foel Gron (593mtrs) and Foel Goch (605mtrs) allowed good views of the coast and some of the Snowdonia range of mountains - Menai Strait and Lleyn, Nantlle Ridge, Snowdon and Glyderau, Tryfan and Moel Hebog. Below Llyn Dwythwch could be seen.
6 walkers, 5 + hours walking, 789m total elevation, 10.65miles (17+km). A great day.
Thanks everyone.
Friday 3rd May 2019Moel Siabod
Meeting at the Bryn Glo car park between Betws y Coed and Capel Curig 7 of us were suitably prepared for the icy cold and northerly wind conditions that had been forecast. Contrary to expectation and after an early soaking Siabod summit, at 872 mtrs, felt remarkably still, relatively warm with little wind and temperatures reaching a few degrees C positive - not the -3C predicted.
We walked over 7.5 miles, up the eastern side where the path started gently, soon became steeper and later provided brief sections of scrambling. After reaching the rocky top our descent, to the west, brought us down a shaley uneven path and, after the recent rain there was a boggy area.
Highlights included a disused quarry lake and other lakes, panoramic views of Snowdonia - Tryfan, Glyderau and Carneddau ranges. Some of the group heard the faint sound of the first cuckoo.
Many thanks to Janet for planning and leading today’s walk. Thanks, everyone, for the great support and company.
Friday 5th April 2019
8 walkers arrived at the arranged meeting point and waited patiently for the bus to take us from Betws Y Coed to the start of April’s walk. Despite being 20mins late the youthful driver safely transported U3A Rhuthun’s ‘bus-pass carrying’ walkers to the Roman Bridge on the A 470 to start April’s walk.
The 9mile linear walk with moderate climbs took us along the Lledr valley, past Dolwyddelan castle (Welsh castle built in the early 13th century by Llywelyn the Great), along Sarn Helen and over to the Llugwy valley, crossing the Miners' bridge back to Betws y Coed.
There were good views of snow covered Moel Siabod and Snowdon. On route we were observed by a group of 8 alpacas and entertained, during the break for lunch, by frolicking young Balwen lambs (Black Welsh mountain sheep “white blaze” with attractive four white socks, white face, black nose, and a partially white tail).
Thank you, Jill, for all the planning involved in this linear route - a superb walk, beautiful scenery and good company.
Diolch.
Friday 1st February 2019
Friday 1st February attracted 12 walkers onto beautiful snow covered paths, fields and tracks overlooking the river Alyn. Starting from Plymog farm area, Llanferres, we climbed to Llanarmon Yn Iâl past Clwyd Gate and returned to the start - but not before our leader, Idris, encouraged some more uphill walking. It was well worth the effort for the views – a white panoramic winter scene.
This ‘moderate’ walk was 8.60 miles long and involved a total elevation of 2358ft/718mtrs.
Lunchbreak was enjoyed at Llanarmon where Gwen created a petite snow’person’. The occasional food/fluid sustenance breaks plus rest stops gave opportunities for us to appreciate the white winter scene.
Thank you Idris for a superb walk – our second walk in 2019 on a cold, but mild, day.
Friday 4th January 2019
Many thanks,
Moyra
Just a quick reminder of the normal hillwalking stuff . Please read.........nothing to be alarmed about! Scroll down for English
Rhaid gwisgo esgidiau mynydd cryfion sy’n cynnal eich ffêr, ac sydd â gwadnau sy’n gafael
Dillad glaw (cot a throwsus) , er bod y rhagolygon yn ‘sych’.
Menig a het
Haen ychwanegol
Cymorth cyntaf personol
Cofnod o unrhyw gyflwr meddygol, meddyginiaeth, a rhif ffôn mewn argyfwng
Bwyd
Dŵr – bydd angen dros 1 litr ar dywydd poeth.
Golau a batris
Sach argyfwng plastig (£2 Sports Direct) neu flanced alwminiwm . Dylai bob aelod roi un yng ngwaelod ei fag.
You must# wear boots with a good ankle support and gripping soles.
Full waterproofs ( jacket and over-trousers) even when the forecast is ‘dry’
Gloves and hat
Spare layer
Small personal first aid kit
A note of any medical condition, medication, emergency contact phone number
Food
Water - more than 1 litre may be needed on a hot day
Small lamp and batteries
Plastic Survival bag (£2 Sports Direct) or foil space blanket. Every member should carry a personal one. If someone sprains an ankle and the group needs to stop for a while – you can get very chilly
The leader of the walk has the right to refuse to take any walker who does not have adequate equipment and supplies for the conditions.
For more information please contact Jill Marson.