#adventures snowdonia

[alexmurison]

Mountain Goat

[angiethewitch]

yr wyddfa

[deweydecimalchickens]

I spent the weekend walking the Ardudwy Way from Barmouth to Llandecwyn in north Wales, and it was mostly amazing. Pictures of the amazing bits to follow. However, here are some bits that went a bit wrong:

My first night in my one-person lightweight tent. Did you know these things tend to be much warmer if you remember to fully zip up the door flap? News to me!

As well as the aforementioned cows, there were horses on the path at one point. I have never seen horses in this area before. One was pretty chill and just grazed, but the other was noticeably panicky and actually got its shoulder under the chill one and forced its head up to stare at me. Oh well, time for another detour through another bog while avoiding eye contact and talking in soothing tones. This is why we wear waterproof socks.

Plan A had been to refill my water bottle from this stream. Then I saw the truly stupendous amount of hemlock-water-dropwort growing in it. I don't actually know if Britain's most toxic plant can poison the water it's growing in, but I wasn't going to be the idiot who found out it does.

The actual path is completely invisible and veers sharply to the right among the head-high bracken. You just had to sort of walk into it and see which bit let you through. The fake-ass path on the left was created by multiple people going the wrong way and then falling down a hole. Including me.

There was a whole extra valley like this. I didn't take photos but I was just stumbling through bracken, relying on knowing the trajectory of the path on the map, using my trekking poles like a cane in front of me because I couldn't see the ground, for about an hour. I also accidentally scared the hell out of a group of young people who hadn't realised they weren't alone in there, and were attempting to escape straight up the scree/craggy side. We've all been there, but they were making even slower progress than I was. I did keep an eye on them and make sure they got out okay.

I spent the last mile and a half running for the last train. In hiking boots and with my giant rucksack on my back. My filter water bottle fell off my rucksack at some point in this mad dash, so a) I littered and b) I was so thirsty I ended up drinking unfiltered stream water. (At least this was over 300m above sea level so didn't have hemlock-water-dropwort in it.) Luckily the train station was ready for people doing such stupid things.

I also have to hike in this ridiculous headgear because I started out with blue eyes and freckles and then took a medication that makes me more sensitive to the sun. No amount of sunscreen can stop me from going lobster.

I genuinely had a wonderful time, but yeah...

[torotillo]

Beautiful Snowdonia National Park, 3.5 hours climb to the summit of England and Wales tallest mountain, Mount Eryri aka Mount Snowden, North Wales. Such wonderful sights we had from the top.

[dopescissorscashwagon]

One of my favourite times of year, when the purple heather starts to come out in abundance! 💜

by Anne Kirkham 📸

This one’s from last season, heading down from Rhinog Fach, the Irish Sea just visible in the distance.

[oakandtideapparel]

ADVENTURE STORIES

The Summit of Snowdon: A Reflection on Adventure and Family

“There’s a moment, just as the first light of dawn breaks over the horizon, when everything feels possible”.

At dawn, with the first light breaking over the horizon, I set off with my nine-year-old son and two younger brothers on an adventure we had been dreaming about for years: climbing Snowdon, the highest peak in England and Wales. This wasn’t just about reaching the summit; it was about reconnecting with loved ones and immersing ourselves in the beauty of nature.

Driving through the stunning Welsh countryside, our excitement grew. My son’s curiosity and my brothers' stories added to the anticipation. As we laced up our boots at the mountain’s base, the rising sun cast a golden glow, marking the beginning of an experience we would cherish forever.

The climb was both challenging and rewarding. My son led the way with boundless energy, while my brothers and I shared quiet moments of reflection. Each step brought us closer to the summit, away from life’s distractions, and into the heart of what truly matters—family, resilience, and the joy of shared experiences.

Reaching the summit, surrounded by clouds, we found not disappointment but a profound sense of connection. The journey itself was the reward, reminding us that the most meaningful moments in life come from the challenges we face together.

As we descended, the day’s lessons stayed with us: life’s true rewards are found in the memories we create and the bonds we strengthen with those we love.

At Oak and Tide, we believe in the power of these moments. Whether it’s hiking a mountain, paddling down a river, or exploring new horizons, it’s the people we share these adventures with that make them truly special. Here’s to the next adventure and the memories still waiting to be made. Join us, and let’s create something unforgettable together.

Original Post can be found here 

https://www.oakandtideapparel.com/2024/08/12/the-summit-of-snowdon-a-fathers-reflection-on-adventure-and-family/

[centreareteoutdoor]

Embrace Adventure at Arete: Unforgettable Residential Activities in Wales

Situated amidst the picturesque landscapes of North Wales, Arete Outdoor Centre is your gateway to adventure and discovery. Our comprehensive outdoor residential activities centre offers the perfect blend of excitement and learning for schools, families, and corporate groups looking to experience the great outdoors.

At Arete, adventure comes in many forms. From thrilling rock climbing and abseiling on natural cliffs to serene yet challenging kayaking and canoeing on beautiful Welsh waters, there's something for everyone. Our mountain hikes, walking and navigation exercises allow you to explore the stunning terrain, uncovering the natural beauty of Wales while building resilience and confidence.

At Arete Outdoor Centre, we believe that the best adventures are the ones that inspire growth, teamwork, and lasting memories. Whether you’re scaling heights or paddling through calm waters, your time with us will be filled with moments of triumph and discovery.

Join us at Arete and embrace the adventure that awaits. Book your residential stay today and embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of Wales.

[outdoors-pete]

Y Garn, seen from different angles & at different times of the year!

[escapetothewildside]

Yr Wyddfa

Having a quiet weekend chilling out and whilst I was sorting out photos I came across this one of Yr Wyddfa also know as Snowdon that I took earlier in the year. Yr Wyddfa We were driving along a mountain road and as we came around a corner this beautiful vista of the mountains opened up in front of us. This is the less popular side of Yr Wyddfa which you can ascend via either the Snowdon…

[alexmurison]

A snow capped Cadair Idris Eryri National Park

[bittersweet-felonwood]

[30-before-30-but-im-27]

Snowdon

We made it to the Snowdon Summit!

We started our climb up the PYG track quite late so by the time we got to the summit a thick fog engulfed us. We decided that the safest way down would be to follow the train tracks. The visibility was low and it started to rain meaning that the Miners Path was out of the question. Eventually, we hopped onto Llanberis Path and followed it all the way down to an unfortunately closed pub. By the time we reached the bottom, it was almost 9 pm. I am proud of us for making the climb and getting down safely. There were two or three moments I thought that was it, we are going to fall. The walking sticks came in handy for additional support whenever the wind on the other face of the mountain picked up. The weather was not favourable to us at all which makes this an even bigger achievement.

Shout-out to my mum for going on this little adventure with me and absolutely smashing it! It was her determination that got us to the top.

[callumreuben]

[torotillo]

In the mountain cradle of Snowdonia National Park.