I have just returned from a few sunshine days in Wales and my trip included an ascent up Snowdon – the less strenuous way with Snowdon Mountain Railway as we had my 83-year-old pa-on-law with us.
I was impressed by the scores of determined walkers who trekked to the top, the fittest walking both ways, while others chose either to walk up or down, and take the railway for the other trip. I was particularly impressed by the number of young kids who keenly took up the challenge, and many walkers brought their dogs too for a good stretch.
The views from the top of Wales’ highest summit – 3,560 ft above sea level – are staggering, and the first thing many of the breathless walkers did when they made it was to phone home and share news of their terrific achievement with their loved ones.
I wonder if you have conquered Snowdon and, if so, how you found it, and what advice you would give. One walker recommend using poles with springs, for example. I would like to try it on a return visit so I can boast that I have also conquered Snowdon. Some young walkers in our hotel spent more than 4 hours coming down and found it gruelling (they took the train for the ascent), while others have managed it in half the time. Two keen walkers I met climb Snowdon over and over again, putting many of us half their age to shame.
I spoke to a few walkers about their ascent to Snowdon for this video.
Yes, on the train, like you. I was about 10 and had my nose in a copy of “Romeo” for the whole trip, much to my Dad’s chagrin!
I have walked up Snowdon many times…taking many different routes the first time we did it Matthew was about 7 I think.
Been there done that 🙂
Are you going to do the highest peak or the most challenging peak?
You certainly get about Ellee! I know the area well from my student days in Wales.
Well done to those who walked up there. It can’t have been easy.
Try Cader Idris Elle ( Seat of Idris )
Near the wonderful Mawddach Estuary , its almost 3000 ft and less packed .
My boys ( son and hubby ) have done it a few times and say its great to climb.
No train or tourist cafe at the top thank goodness !
Disaffected, I remember climbing Cader Idris with my school and really enjoying it. I’d like to go back there one day too.
Did you stay at Portmerion and get to visit Sir Clough Williams-Ellis home Plas Brondanw ?
disaffected, yes, we went to Portmeirion and later the gardens, and this was only thanks to your recommendation as there was no publicity about Plas Brondanw locally. It must be the best kept secret of North Wales. We went on our last day before travelling home, I said I must go because you had told me how special it was and I wanted to see it. I am now editing a video I made there, including an interview with its gardener, and will publish it later today.
I thought the two walkers we know would of given you more advice 🙂 🙂
Anne, yes, good point! 🙂
Very droll, not to put to fine a point on it 🙂