Aug15 - Jul 16
Sunday July 31st 2016. Llangybi Circular. Kath Spencer led a dozen walkers on an excellent day across a less frequented inland tract of the Llŷn’s delightful countryside. The 12 mile walk started from Llangybi, heading northwards mainly on pleasant country lanes, then turning west through Tyddyn Mawr farm along the ancient elevated trackway into Cwm Coryn, an area rich in archaeology with fine views across the peninsula to the coast and Bae Ceredigion. Detours were made to climb the two distinctive conical peaks on the edge of the Clynnnog Hills, Pen y Gaer, the site of an iron age fort, and Moel Bronmiod. The return was made across a long boggy stretch served by sadly neglected footpaths, eventually skirting Garn Bentyrch and reaching the well-preserved ruins of Ffynnon Gybi. All enjoyed this long but rewarding day of good dry walking weather with prevailing sunny periods. Noel Davey
Thursday July 21st 2016. Pwllheli Hinterland. There was a good turnout of 25 walkers for a pleasant 4.8 mile ramble in the hinterland of Pwllheli led by Miriam Heald. This was a late replacement for the programmed linear walk where path obstructions have yet to be resolved. The route led from the Penmount car park via Pen Lôn Cob to the seafront at the West End, skirting the golf course and heading inland past Penmaen to reach an attractive lunch spot with good views over the countryside. The walk continued via Fynnon Felin Fach and Gwynfryn to Penrallt and Denio, descending to the town near Bro Cynan and Asda. While this path section has recently been cleaned up and upgraded, it was disappointing to find large volumes of litter returning here. An enjoyable outing in the sunshine was rounded off by a visit to the café at Plas Heli. Noel Davey.
Sunday July 17th 2016. Carnedd Gwenllian via Drum. Roy Milnes led 9 walkers on a superb day in the Northern Carneddau , covering 13 miles and a cumulative ascent of 3500ft in increasingly warm and sunny weather. The expedition started from the Bont Newydd car park north of Abergwyngregyn, climbing steeply via the minor road and North Wales Path up to Drum. The route continued to the highest points of the day, above 3000ft, at Foel Fras and Carnedd Gwenllian. A lunch spot in the lee of a wall out of the brisk wind provided fine views towards the Clwydian, Berwyn and Shropshire Hills. The route then crossed the plateau, taking in the jagged rocks of Yr Aryg, Bera Bach and Bera Mawr, opening up successive views towards the southern Carneddau, Anglesey and, possibly, the Isle of Man. The descent was made via the Afon Gam Valley past the ever spectacular Aber Falls, shimmering in the late afternoon sunshine. A strenuous and most enjoyable day was rounded off by a posh tea in the village’s newly opened Aber Falls Café. Noel Davey.
Thursday July 7th 2016 Rhyd Circular. On what is likely to win a prize for the wettest walk this year Dafydd Williams led an heroic band of 15 ramblers through the delightful woodlands between the Dwyryd and the village of Rhyd. Starting from a layby on the A487 between Penrhyndeudraeth and Maentwrog, the route crossed the Ffestiniog Railway, climbing via Rhiw Goch past old mine workings to Rhyd and returned via Llyn Hafod-y-Llyn through Coed Llyn y Garnedd down to Coed Cae Fali. In spite of persistent rain the walkers remained in good spirits and most enjoyed their tramp through the damp and dripping forest. Noel Davey.
Sunday July 3rd 2016. Glyders. Judith Thomas led 11 members on a thoroughly reconnoitred and welcome return to the Glyderau. The walk of some 7 miles and 2800 ft of ascent started from Ogwen cottage, passing Llyn Idwal and continuing with an energetic climb through the Devil’s Kitchen (Twll Du) up to the main peak of Glyder Fawr (3300ft), where lunch was taken in the lee out of a brisk wind. The route then crossed the extraordinary rocky ‘moonscape’ of the Glyder plateau, skirting the pinnacles of Castell y Gwynt and Glyder Fach, with the customary parade onto the iconic Cantilever (Y Gwyliwr) just beyond. The descent followed the Miner’s Track, where wild goats were encountered, circling across Bwlch Tryfan and down Cwm Bochlwyd back to Ogwen in time for tea and ice creams. Predominantly sunny weather and good visibility throughout a strenuous but most rewarding day provided splendid views of the surrounding peaks of Snowdonia and beyond to Anglesey and mid-Wales. Noel Davey.
Thursday 23 June 2016. Dolwyddelan. John Enser led 20 members which included a new member, on a fine day, on a 6 mile walk which can be described as the Dolwyddelan Castle Walk. Parking by St Gwyddelan church we walked away from the village centre, crossed the railway bridge and after some 50 yards took a path on the right which we followed for over a mile before emerging on the A470. After crossing the road we followed a tarmac road past the railway halt, Roman Bridge to a Farm and continued to the river and crossed the bridge where lunch was enjoyed in the warm sunshine. We then went left of the old slate heap and reached the road close to the top end of the Blaenau Dolwyddelan valley. From here we headed back along a tarmac road towards Dolwyddelan for approx. a mile until we reached a farm where we went left and followed the path until the castle came into view. The majority of the party visited what is one of the Welsh Castles and arguably the birth place of Llewelyn the Great. It is then downhill to the A470 which you follow back to the start. An extremely enjoyable walk well led by our worthy Secretary. Dafydd Henry Williams.
Sunday June 19th 2016. Amlwch to Llandulas. John Enser led a 9 mile walk from Traeth Dulas to Amlwch on Anglesey. Eight members and a guest enjoyed the coastal walk, witnessing a seal colony at Porth Helygan and stopping for lunch at the lovely Porth Eilian. After lunch wind and driving rain made conditions more testing but we enjoyed a short break at Ffynnon Eilian where the Friends of the Anglesey Coastal path have installed a bench. John Enser
Thursday June 9th 2016 Great Orme. Llandudno. 18 members of the Club, led by Miriam Heald, made a welcome return to a favourite walk on the Great Orme at Llandudno. In the tradition of the best Thursday walks it started and finished in a café. The route taken ascended steeply from the West Shore, circling clockwise around the summit with a lunch stop at St Tudno’s Church and the descent via the ski slope and Happy Valley gardens, in all about 5.6 miles in 4 hours. Initial warm sunshine soon gave way to damp misty conditions which limited the views, but took the edge of the heat, while after some early light showers most of the walk was in the dry. A very pleasant outing. Noel Davey
Sunday June 5th 2016. Moel Ysgyfarnogod & Foel Penolau. On a day that was likely to be one of the warmest of the year Hugh Evans led 9 members on a cracking walk across the Ysgyfarnogod ridge. The route of some 9.5 miles started on a minor road west of Trawsfynydd, ascended about 1000 ft fairly steeply to the twin peaks of Moel Ysgyfarnogod and Foel Penolau, affording spectacular views across the landscape in all directions; lunch was taken in a magical spot next to the tiny Llyn Du; the walk then descended west of the ridge past old mines to the bronze age trackway and the astonishing relic of the Bryn Cader Faner stone circle, finally circling back with a ‘sting in the tail’ near Moel y Gyrafolen. Throughout the day the party marvelled at the remarkable geological architecture of this rarely visited part of Snowdonia, featuring huge slabs and blocks of stone, reminiscent of some kind of strange ancient ruins. The unaccustomed hot sunshine, tempered by a light breeze, and the often rough terrain made for a strenuous but thoroughly enjoyable day. Noel Davey.
Thursday May 26th 2016. Dyffryn Ardudwy. Nick White led a group of 18 members round a gentle 3½ mile circuit from Benar beach through the outskirts of Dyffryn Ardudwy on a pleasant sunny day. Lunch was taken in the local disused church graveyard, followed by an amble through the back streets to a boggy field full of wild orchids. Having passed the end of the airfield runway (future space port?) a walk through the holiday village and sandhills led to the (nudist) beach where a stop was made for tea (fully clothed). Judith ventured a paddle in the sea, then a short walk along a section of the Wales Coast Path on the beach led back to the boardwalk and the car park. Nick White
Sunday May 22nd 2016. Berwyns. Seven ramblers, led by Noel Davey, had a good, though strenuous day out on the Berwyns, the first visit by the Club to this area for about five years. The walk was some 12.5 miles in length over about 7.5 hours. The route started in the village of Llandrillo, heading steadily up the drover’s track eastwards to Pen Bwlch Llandrillo to the occasional sound of cuckoos, gaining about 1500 ft over 4 miles. The ‘Wayfarer’ cyclist’s memorial provided a welcome coffee stop. From there the route turned south onto the main Berwyn ridge, reaching Cadair Bronwen in time for a late lunch and an encounter with the only other walker seen on the day. Then, on to the highest point at Cadair Berwyn (2700 ft), manned by a lone radio ham. A moderately easy descent was achieved by a boggy grass track down Foel Fawr, crossing two major streams which thankfully were not much swollen by recent rain, eventually regaining Llandrillo through the charming wooded valley of Cwm Pennant. Some damp weather in the morning and sharper showers in the afternoon did not detract from a generally bright day with good visibility, affording distant views of Snowdonia and mid-Wales, as well as the impressive flanks of the Berwyns themselves. Noel Davey
Thursday May 12th 2016. Glasfryn Park Circular. In warm spring sunshine Kath Spencer led 21 walkers on a leisurely 5.5 mile ramble from Glasfryn Parc. The intricate and pleasant pastoral route comprised a series of loops along tracks and field paths mostly west of the A499, past Trallwyn Hall and as far as the lower slopes of Mynydd Carnguwch. The remotely located church of St Beuno above Penfras Uchaf provided a charming lunch spot. Following this most enjoyable outing a number of walkers visited the café and farm shop at Glasfryn. Noel Davey.
Sunday May 8th 2016. Llanlechid Circular. Sunny weather and a low-level B grade walk tempted out 14 ramblers for a varied and most enjoyable day led by Dafydd Williams. The walk started near Talybont, crossed over the A55 and ascended via sections of the North Wales Path to over 1000ft through the open access land below Moel Wnion. There were good views here of the mountain scenery , marred only by the pervasive pylons. The route then descended to the Ogwen Valley via the interesting Bryn slate quarry, where lunch was taken, and the quiet village of Llanllechid. The return led along pleasant valley paths past the delightful bluebell woods of Coed Cochwillan. Noel Davey.
Thursday April 28th 2016. Llanbedrog Iron Man. Judith Thomas led a 5 mile walk of two halves from Llanbedrog. 24 club members started out from the NT car park, climbing to the Iron Man via the splendid Winallt paths. The route then led around Tir Cwmwd headland in increasingly cold, wet and windy conditions and down the narrow lane past Bolmynydd. The majority then wisely decided to retreat to the amenities of Plas Glyn y Weddw. However, a band of 7 hardy souls carried on which proved less mad than it seemed as the rain promptly stopped, bringing brighter weather. The walk continued via Wern Newydd, Crugan and Llanbedrog beach with lunch en route, giving a refreshing if somewhat damp outing. Noel Davey
Sunday April 24th 2016. Nantlle ridge West to East. Roy Milnes led 8 walkers from West to East along the full length of the magnificent Nantlle Ridge, one of the great walks of Snowdonia. The route started with a steep but efficient ascent from Llyn Cwm Dulyn onto the ridge at Mynydd Graig Goch, then proceeding via Garnedd Goch to the highest point on Craig Cwm Silyn. Somewhat misty though mostly dry conditions on this section soon gave way to brighter weather, allowing spectacular views from the crags of Tal y Mignedd and Mynydd Drws y Coed. Ideal viewpoints were found for lunch and tea, well sheltered from the persistent cold north-easterly wind. Finally the party descended Y Garn down the steep grassy slopes at the eastern end of the ridge to Rhyd Ddu, a total distance of 8.3 mls with a cumulative ascent of some 3700ft. This well led and strenuous walk made a rewarding and memorable day out on the hills. Noel Davey
Sunday April 10th 2016. Nefyn to Penllech Linear Costal. Ian Spencer led 8 members, all ‘fresh’ from the Club holiday, on a 7.5 mile walk along the Coastal Path from Nefyn to Towyn, a welcome chance to walk by the sea and rocks again after the moors and dales of the Peak District. The weather was bright and sunny, though tempered by a cold easterly, giving fine views down the coast and across the water to Holyhead. A seal was sighted. The generally flat path followed the low cliff top, but was interrupted by many ups and downs formed by eroded gullies. The mud, notorious here, was relatively limited. This enjoyable walk was over quite early but about the right length after the exertions of the preceding week. Noel Davey
Thursday 14th April 2016. Mawddach Trail. 21 members made the long trek to Dolgellau for a 6¼ mile walk led by Nick White. Starting in Dolgellau the first 2 miles were nice and flat along the Mawddach Trail to Penmaenpool where the coffee stop was made. After refreshing ourselves we made the strenuous climb to Maes Angharad for our lunch stop on a convenient hillside, where we were joined by one of the very friendly farm cats. Fortunately the weather stayed fair and the party wished Nick a “Penblwydd Hapus” in the traditional manner. There followed a sometimes very boggy walk through delightful scenery to Graig and Rhydwen, before our final descent into Dolgellau with excellent views over the town. We finished with cream scones and tea/coffee at the well known Caffi T H Roberts to round off a successful and varied walk. Nick White
Peak District Holiday. 24 members of the Club and friends enjoyed their annual holiday from April 1st-8th, this time at the newly opened HF hotel of Peveril in the Peak District. As usual there was a choice of 3 grades of walks on each of the five walking days, attracting widely varying numbers. The walks covered a good cross-section of the National Park, from the charms of nearby Dovedale to the wilder moorland in the north and the industrial heritage of the Derwent Valley in the south. The A walks covered in total some 60-65 miles over the week. The weather was consistently better than forecast with predominantly bright, though often cool conditions and relatively little rain. On their ‘days off’ members took the opportunity to visit nearby Ashbourne, Buxton, Matlock Bath, Bakewell and Chatsworth. The accommodation, food and service was generally rated to be of the same high standard we have come to expect from HF hotels, even though on this occasion we needed to share the premises with another walking group. We are indebted once again to Ian for organising the holiday, including sorting out the scarcity of walks maps and directions available for leaders to guide the walks. Hugh has kindly volunteered to take over the organisation of HF Club holidays next year. Thanks also to Megan, Judith, Dafydd and Tecwyn for contributing to a diverse range of enjoyable evening entertainment. Noel Davey
Thursday March 31st 2016. Mynytho. 16 club members enjoyed a varied 3 mile ‘D’ walk led by Miriam Heald around Mynytho. The views on this sunny day were spectacular, extending in all directions across the peninsula, to Snowdonia and over Cardigan Bay. The main route tracked a number of muddy paths before lunch in the comfort of a garden terrace kindly hosted by Kev and Jean Norton. Six members added a short detour up to the ‘jampot’ on Foel Fawr. Noel Davey.
Easter Sunday March 27th 2016. Cwm Wnion. Hugh Evans led a small gallant band on a great 10 mile+ walk from Llanuwchllyn along Cwm Wnion. The route initially followed a well marked path through pleasant pastoral countryside along the southern side of the valley, then crossed the A494 and ascended steeply through mossy forest on the north side; the return route skirted open access land and was enlivened by various challenges including a swollen river, fallen trees and impenetrable brambles. Intermittent light showers, including some hail, interspersed with brighter periods, provided tolerable walking conditions with some fine views of the countryside, the Arans and other surrounding peaks. This well planned walk, followed by coffee and cake at the White Lion in Bala, made for a most convivial day in an area rarely visited by the Club. Noel Davey.
Link to Thursday February 4th 2016. Penmaenpool report.
Thursday March 17th 2016. Nefyn Circular via Mynydd Nefyn. Ian Spencer led 22 walkers on a most enjoyable, leisurely-paced 6 mile circuit from Nefyn. The route led uphill onto Coed Mynydd Nefyn, then along Bwlch Gwynt between Gwylwyr and Moel Ty-Gwyn, returning via a pleasant lunch spot at Eglwys Pistyll and along the elevated Coastal Path below the old quarries. The weather was again sunny and warm, enhancing the fine views across to Yr Eifl and Porth Dinllaen. Noel Davey.
Sunday March 13th 2016. Yr Aran & Beddgelert Forest. A group of 10 club members, led by Noel Davey, had an excellent day of fine sunny weather walking from Rhyd Ddu up Yr Aran and through the Beddgelert Forest. This walk had been postponed from two years ago when ice sheets still covered the heights of Snowdonia. This time the snow cleared just in time to allow a relatively easy ascent of Yr Aran from the SW, while leaving a magnificent backdrop of the still snow-covered slopes of Snowdon . The route continued along the SW ridge, descending across grassy open access land near Perthi and returning along sections of the Lôn Gwyrfai, a distance of about 10 miles. Two of the group opted for an easier walk of about 7 miles, retracing their steps from Bwlch Cwm Llan via Fridd Uchaf and Llyn y Gader. Noel Davey.
Thursday March 3rd 2016 at Capel y Traeth, Criccieth. AGM. The Club held its 37th AGM on Thursday March 3rd at Capel y Traeth, Criccieth. The meeting was well attended and efficiently brief. Afterwards Dafydd Williams led about 25 members on a 3-4 mile walk through the grounds of Bron Eifion and along Y Dryll, a pleasant stroll in fair weather, rounded off with welcome ice creams and coffee at Cadwalladers. Noel Davey.
Sunday 28th February 2016. Cwm Bowydd. 12 Ramblers led by their Chairman Nick White set out on a lovely sunny morning from the side of the Memorial Hospital in Blaenau Ffestiniog down a grassy slope and into a wooded area. They followed a path along the banks of the Afon Bowydd for about a mile or so. They eventually came to the A496, after a short climb uphill away from the river. The party then turned left onto a hard track. Here they had a short stop for a coffee break. Shortly afterwards the ramblers crossed the 17th Century listed Cymerau Bridge over the Afon Goedel. Again they entered ancient woodlands again crossing an ancient lane. After following quiet track for a while lunch was taken. Afterwards the Ramblers dropped down to a bridge crossing the Afon Teigl. The walk then followed the river upstream where they met a local walking group. For a short period they walked together chatting happily as the proceeded towards Blaenau. The walkers finished their walk climbing paths over pasture land back to Blaenau Ffestiniog. The leader was ably assisted by Daffyd Henry and thanked by all for a very enjoyable day. Ian Spencer.
Thursday 18th February 2016. Mynydd Carreg Circular. Miriam Heald and Megan Mentzoni led a party of 15 ramblers from Mynydd Carreg Farm. The club were again very lucky with the weather even if the ground was inevitably muddy in places after all the recent rain. The walkers made their way to the coast along a track and then across fields before following the coastal path around Mynedd Carreg. They followed a series of field paths and quiet country lanes inland. An excellent lunch spot was chosen overlooking Anelog. The walk was noteworthy for its marvellous views of both coasts of the peninsular. The walk ended following the Coastal Path back to the cars. Ian Spencer.
Sunday 14th February 2016. Gyrn Ddu, Gyrn Goch & Bwlch Mawr. Ian Spencer led 13 members on the walk from the A499 near Trefor taking the path by Rock Cottage. They climbed steeply upto Pen y bwlch and on and along the old drovers road. Fropm here they climbed up Gyrn Ddu and then up to the summit of Gyrn Goch where they had their picnic lunch. The view, on a lovely sunny day, was glorious over both Caernarfon Bay and over Cardigan Bay with the snow capped mountains of Snowdonia to the East. Most of the party then climbed Bwlch Mawr before returning along the drovers track and descending down to their cars. All in all a good days walk! Ian Spencer.
Thursday 4th February 2016. Penmaenpool. Luckily a dry day in this wet winter. Nick White led a group of 16 members on a 6 mile ramble around the foothills of Cader Idris. A visit was made to the Snowdonia National Park wildlife information centre in the old signal box at Penmaenpool, before setting off up the hill behind the George III inn. A steady climb on tracks and footpaths behind the ornamental grounds of Penmaenuchaf led to the back of Dolgledr, where the slippery ground from all the recent rains caused several members to come a cropper, fortunately with only pride injured. A stop for lunch was made with the Mawddach estuary at Barmouth as a backdrop, then a steady descent to Abergwynant, stopping to admire an old lime kiln. Finally a flat walk along part of the Mawddach trail with the wind behind us brought us back to our starting point and welcome refreshment in the George III. Nick White.
Sunday 31st January 2016. Llangelynin Old Church, Conwy Valley. The weather forecast was awful. Gales and heavy rain. Our starting point the car park at the top of the Sychnant Pass was like tornado alley. Things did not bode well as Judith Thomas expertly led the 9 of us on a circular walk which was to include Llangelynin Church. We had to take care not to be blown over as we made our way south up towards Maen Escob. As we passed Maen Escob the effect of the wind lessened and the forecast heavy rain never materialised, in fact we even saw some blue sky. The morning break was taken close to a stone circle near Cefn Llechen. Shortly afterwards we turned south east and arrived at the church in time for lunch. There, in the rather austere surroundings we eat our sandwiches, sheltered from elements. After lunch and half a mile further on we turned north and following paths and narrow lanes back to that extremely windy car park. It was an excellent walk, which protected us from the worst of the wind and gave us some excellent views of the coast and the surrounding countryside. Hugh Evans.
Thursday 21st January 2016. Llangybi. Kath Spencer led 19 walkers from Llangybi on a walk which included many of the picturesque local lanes, in view of the very muddy state of the paths after all the recent rain. They left the tarmac by Bryn Selyl following a track to the lane which led them to Bont Maen-llwyd. From here the ramblers were then on very muddy paths to, and by the side of Llyn Glasfryn. They then joined and followed the lanes back to Llangybi. After the walk they had tea or coffee and scones and cakes at the leaders house in nearby Llanarmon. Ian Spencer.
Sunday 17th January 2016 Four Valleys (Two Valleys). Noel Davey led a delightful walk from the Snowdon Tavern at Waunfawr entitled the 4 Valleys Walk. There were 11 members on the walk which started with a steady climb up to Cefn Du, where by dropping down a few yards, they found enough shelter from the wind to enjoy a coffee break. The party continued by re-joining the path which led them round the hill and eventually to Bryn Bras Castle. The walk very well led by Noel, continued by climbing back up the hill before eventually returning to Waunfawr. A wonderful feature of the walk had been the great views of the Snow topped peaks which gave an almost alpine feel together with Llyn Padarn in the valley below. Ian Spencer.
7th January 2016. Around Trefor. Nancy Saville led a party of 19 members on a walk from Trefor Harbour. They set off following the Coastal Path to the South with a very rough sea on their right. They then turned inland firstly on grass land up a very quiet lane passing a ruined fire damaged former Hotel. The ramblers had their lunch in a pleasant wooded area before they made use of the cycle track along side the main Caernarfon road. They crossed this road and made their way back through Trefor to the Harbour and their cars. The leader Nancy was thanked for an excellent walk after all the recent heavy rains and managing to avoid the worst of the mud. Ian Spencer.
3rd January 2016. Dwyfor (Lon Goed). the first walk of the New Year, Dafydd Williams led the club walk. He rearranged this, in view of the very muddy paths, after the days of heavy rain. Twelve members set off in heavy rain, which gradually died down, up Lon Goed near Chwillog. The track was sheltered by the Oak and Beech Trees which line the way. This track was originally laid to help bring lime from Afon Wen to the Vaughan Estate's land to improve the land.
The ramblers followed the path for three and a half miles towards its Northern end. Here they all had picnic lunches before returning to the start. Dafydd was thanked for arranging this walk avoiding the worst of the mud elsewhere and providing a most enjoyable walk. Ian Spencer.
Thursday 24th December 2015. Llanbedrog to Pwllheli. Christmas Eve. Ian Spencer led 11 walkers, including 3 generations of one family, on a short Coastal Walk from Llanbedrog to Pwllheli. They were very lucky with the weather having sunshine for this short 4 mile walk. On this festive occasion a short stop was made for mince pies and coffee. When they arrived in Pwllheli they all caught the bus back to their cars in Llanbedrog after wishing each other a Merry Christmas. Ian Spencer.
Sunday 20th December 2015. Around Moel Dyniewyd. Hugh Evans led 7 members on a walk from Beddgelert down the Aberglaslyn Valley, initially trying to follow the Fisherman's Path, which was in places under water. However they were able to by-pass these without having to walk on water. They then turned North East up the Nanmor Valley which they followed until they reached the quarries near Llwynyrchwch. From here Hugh led the walkers up and over the Moel-y-Dyniewyd Ridge and then descending to the Nant Gwynant Valley below Snowdon. They then made their way back along the side of Llyn Dinas and on to Beddgelert. Hugh was warmly thanked for an excellent walk on a surprisingly dry day. Ian Spencer.
Thursday 10th December 2015. Nefyn. Miriam Heald led 17 walkers from the Bryncynan Inn car park. They set off towards Nefyn along the road before making use of the footpath to the East which led to the centre of the village. From here Miriam led them to the cliff path which was followed round the bay with splendid views over the coast. Shortly after reaching Porthdinllaen Bay they turned inland and down a narrow lane passing a small delightful pond and then crossing the B4417. This lovely walk followed a series of pleasant paths across pastures before returning to the Brycynan Inn for mince pies and a refreshing drink. Ian spencer.
Sunday 6th December 2015. Yr Eifl 3 Peaks. Catrin Williams led a party of 7 ramblers from Mount Pleasant car park, on a somewhat restricted walk after all the rain and gales and the low cloud cover, around Tre'r Ceiri and Yt Eifl. They followed the grassy track until they met the path that leads up from Trefor to Bwlch yr Eifl. From here they followed this track back to Mount Pleasant, then turning right down the steep road to Nant Gwrtheyrn, Sadly the cafe was closed , but everyone thanked Catrin for leading a pleasant walk. Ian spencer.
Thursday 12th November 2015. Caernarfon-Foryd. Catrin Williams led a walk with 26 members setting out from Caernarfon. They started close to the Aber Swing Bridge and followed the Banks of the Straits along the road before reaching St Baglans Church which stands alone in a field at Llanfaglan. Seated in the church the walkers were treated to a talk by one of the keyholders of the church which is looked after by "The friends of friendless churches" society. The church is is situated in a pentagonal enclosure, the only one so situated in Europe. After a picnic lunch the walk continued over mainly pasture land and tracks back to the start. Catrin was thanked by all for a lovely walk in what proved to be mainly fine weather. Ian Spencer.
Sunday November 8th 2015. Porth Neigwl to Llanbedrog linear coast walk. Six ramblers, gamely led by Roy Milnes, enjoyed an exhilarating 10 mile circular walk from P.Neigwl along the superb section of coast path round Mynydd Cilan and Cim. This was instead of the programmed linear walk to Llanbedrog which was postponed on account of the atrocious weather forecast. In the event the strong, warm buffeting wind was bracing, but the promised heavy rain held off for much of the walk, The ever changing views of the wild seascape below were often spectacular. A welcome stop for lunch was made in the shelter of the cliffs on Porth Ceiriad beach close to the thundering surf. A memorable walk, though the party were relieved to get back to the cars in one piece. Noel Davey.
Thursday 29th October 2015. Dolgellau. Nick White led a walk from Dolgellau. The party of 19 started off through the town before following a long but steady climb of about 700ft. to the East. This is an area with a close historical connection the Quakers and there are several sites where this can be seen. The walkers turned West before descending down a charming wooded track to Dolgellau where they all had tea or cofee and cakes in one of the towns excellent cafes. Nick was thanked for a splendid well led and enjoyable walk. Ian Spencer.
Sunday 25th October 2015. Coed y Brenin. Nick White, the club chairman, faultlessly led a walk from Llanfachreth on a day when a heavy breakfast time shower had been the forerunner of a fine and good day for walking. He led a party of 9 members on a circular walk initially setting off to the North East of settlement of Llanfachreth. They followed the"Afon Las or Afom Babi" as it is designated on the Ordnance Survey map, before crossing the river by way of a ford and on into the woodland. The party then turned in a generally Southerly direction. The Ramblers continued to enjoy this delightful walk which had something of a sting in its tail by way of a stiff climb before the finish. Ian Spencer.
Thursday 15th October 2015 Dyffryn Maentwrog and Llyn Mair. The Club Secretary Mr John Enser ably led this 5/6 mile walk on a beautiful Autumn day, there being 16 members present. Most of the up and down route was in the Plas Tan y Bwlch estate woodlands and we zig zagged our way up from the lower car park, crossing the Ffestiniog Railway line and passing Llyn Hafod y Llyn. We then continued to undulate before arriving at Tanybwlch railway station where we enjoyed our picnic lunch with some members making use of the cafe facilities available! Having descended from the station and circled Llyn Mair we made our way to Plas Tan y Bwlch where again some members lacked the will power to pass the convenient cafe! An extremely enjoyable walk in the warm sunshine. Dafydd H Williams.
Sunday 11th October 2015. Aberdaron to Porth Neigwl Linear coastal walk. Roy Milnes very ably lead a group of eight members along the North Wales Coastal path and its latest sections from Aberdaron to the car park at Hell’s Mouth. The lightly overcast sky with a gentle breeze was ideal for walking and enjoying the scenery. We stopped on the path overlooking Porth Ysgo for our morning coffee. We then got a chance to investigate a couple of derelict manganese mine shafts in Nant y Gadwen. Lunch was taken at a very sheltered spot on Mynydd Penarmynydd above Trwyn Talfach and gave us plenty of time to appreciate the beautiful coastline; the Seagull Islands and Bardsey. An hour of walking along the path got us to Plas y Rhiw and a stop at the Tea Room to replace lost calories. We then left the coastal path and made our way along 2.8 miles of beach to the car park at Hell’s Mouth where we were picked up by the Drws I Drws minibus and taken back to Aberdaron. A really excellent walk. Hugh Evans.
Thursday 1st October 2015. Foel Sengl. This walk entitled Foel Sengl was very ably led by Kath Marsden. She had a small party of 9 ramblers who very much enjoyed the views of the coast and Snowdonia across Tremadog Bay. They passed the camping and caravan site at Merthyr Farm where there were a number of standing stones. This was a particularly pleasant walk, much enjoyed by the ramblers, who were full of praise for Kath, who stood in at the last minute to lead the walk. Ian Spencer.
Sunday 27th September 2015. Beddgelert 3 peaks. Eight members enjoyed a magnificent walk, capably lead by Hugh Evans, climbing the three adjacent peaks of Moel Hebog, Moel yr Ogof and Moel Lefn from Bedggelert. The total ascent was a strenuous 3000 ft over some 8.5 miles. The low light of a perfect autumn day afforded spectacular views across Northern Snowdonia and down into Cwm Pennant with the Llŷn stretching out beyond. The return went via Bwlch yr Elor through the Beddgelert Forest and the newly created Lôn Gwyrfai. A memorable day. Noel Davey.
Thursday 17th September 2015. Llanfrothen. Tecwyn Williams led this walk from Llanfrothen which was well supported by 29 members on a fine day. They climbed up through the woods before eventually coming out at the top of the hill from the roadway near Garreg. They then followed the path along the side of moorland. It has to be said that this leader, unusually for him, followed paths all day. A feature of this most enjoyable walk was the Folly passed along the way. The walkers returned above the Afon Glyn valley and enjoyed tea and cakes in the cafe near the car park. Ian Spencer.
Sunday 13th September 2015. Rhinog Fawr. In perfect weather conditions for walking, Noel Davey very ably led a group of eight walkers in a walk up Rhinog Fawr. The walk starting off from the car park at Cwm Bychan and took us to the top of the Roman Steps where we had a coffee break. We turned south west climbing past Llyn Du on a steepening path to reach the summit in time for lunch. We took the westerly path down from the summit before turning north and reaching the very beautiful Gloyw Lyn. We stopped beside the lake for a tea break, enjoying its tranquillity in the afternoon sun. On the move again, it wasn’t long before we had re-joined our outward path on the Roman Steps and arrived back at the car park. An excellent day’s walking in terrific scenery. Hugh Evans.
Thursday 3rd September 2015. Lon Goed. Dafydd Williams led a very well popular walk with 36 members who walked from the top of The Lon Goed at Hendre Garn all the way down this ancient way to where it meets the road out of Chwilog. Thr views along the way were suprisingly splendid to each side of the broad path which is lined with mature oak and beach trees. Both Snowdonia and the sea towards Criccieth Bay were clearly visible. Dafydd was thanked for this very popular walk by all who had enjoyed it immensely. Ian Spencer.
Sunday 30th August 2015. Moel Hebog. Dafydd Williams led a party of 10 ramblers on a smashing 12 mile walk from Beddgelert, through Beddgelert Forest before taking their lunch at Bwlch Meillionen. They then dropped down into Cwm Llethrith and into Cwm Pennant along the old Railway track to the side of Cwmystradllyn before climbing up again and down to Beddgelert through the woods where it was very wet underfoot. Dafydd was thanked by the party for a splendid strenuous walk. Ian Spencer.
Thursday 20th August. Llyn Idwal. Kath Spencer led 17 Ramblers on a 6 mile walk from the Ogwen Valley starting by the foot of Tryfan. The weather was quite mild with occasional drizzle. The first part of the walk along the far side of Llyn Ogwen was rather stoney but lunch was taken sheltering behind rocks. The ramblers crossed the A5 and followed the excellent path to Llyn Idwal and along it's sandy shore, round the back of the Lake. From here they had splendid views of climbers on the famous rock faces before returning to the A5 and their cars, but not before having coffee and teas at the Visitors Centre. Kath was thanked for this delightful walk. Ian Spencer.
Sunday 16th August 2015. Cnicht. Roy Milnes led a party of 9 members from the Croesor car park up Cnicht and on along the ridge and then down to Rhosydd Quarry where the ramblers had their lunch. From here they climbed up to the summit of Moelwyn Mawr and down to the Bwlch before making their way to the top of Moelwyn Bach. The pleasant descent down was made to the bye road that led them bach to Croesor and their cars. Roy was thanked for a very enjoyable 9 mile walk by all the walkers. Ian Spencer.
Thursday 6th August 2015. Panorama walk Barmouth. Fred Foskett led 17 members on a walk from a minor road above and to the East of Barmouth on a day of for once good weather. They went in a southerly direction through woodland stopping at viewing points overlooking the Mawddach Estuary. From here the party climbed quite steeply until they were a mile East of the starting point. They continued uphill they reached a prominent mast where they stopped for lunch. After lunch the ramblers continued until they joined the Ardudwy Way Path. After enjoying the splendid views they turned West towards the Mawddach Estuary and the cars having walked a strenuous 5 miles. Ian Spencer.
Sunday 2nd August 2015. Tremadog – Cwm Ystradllyn circ. Ian Spencer very ably (added by Editor who was there; modesty preventing Ian from putting the words in himself) led a party of 9 ramblers on the walk from Tremadog. They started out on a day of mixed weather by climbing up by the track Cwm Mawr passing the farm of the same name. From here they followed the path slowly descending across mainly pasture land, eventually passing the old slate mill building. They were now soon at the Cwmystradllyn Reservoir. Taking what shelter was available a picnic lunch was taken at the side of the water. Afterwards the party crossed to the other side of the reservoir and returned by a series of different paths and tracks avoiding the worst of the marshy land. Having made their way back to the Tremadog Cliffs they were soon back in Tremadog having enjoyed a nine mile walk. Ian spencer.