Conwy Mountain, the Druids Circle and More 3rd October 2009

Richard's view of the day.

Group photo with the Conwy Estuary and Great Orme behind.

Is it really that windy?

The first sighting of the "wild" ponies.

There's no problem really, we always look like this!
Forget what people say about sheep. just follow me I know the way!

Walk stats:Distance:13 miles; Climb:2480' (Estimated from Memory map elevation profile of the walk).

Time: 6 hours 11 minutes; On the move walking average:2.4 m.p.h.; Overall walk average:2.1 m.p.h.

Group:Martyn, Richard, Roger, Dave J., and Mike D.

We set off from Conwy, not knowing what the weather had in store for us. We expected some sunshine, a little rain and the accompaniment of a stiffish breeze. We got that and much more. The morning weather was good, but the wind was so strong at times that we had difficulty just standing still let alone making any forward progress. Despite the wind we made the Druids Circle in fairly good time, but it was just afterwards that the trek across open moorland to the Tal-y-Fan path was considerably more challenging than we had initially anticipated. However after taking lunch and Dave's reckying we contoured round the hillside to reach the main path. It was just after reaching the main path that torrential driving rain forced us to take shelter in what we assume some shepherd must have built for such occasions. A little cramped, but at least five of us could get in and although not perfect the roof did keep most of the rain and wind at bay. after sheltering for about 10 minutes we braved the weather and set off again, following a good track all the way back to the Sychnant Pass. The final section of track on the South side of Conwy Mountain was equally as good, and as a bonus we were in warm sunshine all the way back to the car.

Birds seen or heard today included: Wren, Meadow pipit, Wheatear, Carrion crow, Raven, Stonechat and Kestrel.

After walk drinks were enjoyed at the Britannia Inn, Pentre Halkyn.