Thursday 6th September......

.......and for many, the highlight of the week - a walk to the summit of Snowdon, which at 1085 metres, is the highest peak in Wales and England. Three groups were chosen according to the route  - one to climb the Watkin Path, one to branch off to follow the South Ridge and the third starting at Pen-y-pass to follow the Miners' Track, then to the top via the Pyg Track. Although the weather forecast warned of sun as the main hazard, a south-westerly wind brought moist air from Cardigan Bay, so clothing the southerly flanks in thick cloud. Unfortunately, this meant that once at the summit, there was no view. However, the wind direction meant that the descent via the Pyg Track was enlivened by the sight of clouds flowing over the summit and evaporating on the north-eastern side. All managed the ascent and descent successfully and took away memories of their achievement and the mountain itself.

Wednesday 5th September

A beautiful morning and its off to the delights of sunny Llandudno. On the way there is a stop in the small Conwy Valley town of Llanrwst to have a quick look at the £7 million flood defences installed to help protect the town protect itself for when the river bursts its banks like it did in 2004 and 2005.

 

 

Above map courtesy of http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/38435.aspx

 

 

Then it was on to Llandudno, a smart seaside town that has managed to retain its air of gentility despite the changes in holiday habits that has caused decline for so many of the UK's seaside resorts. The development of the town was studies, how it grew up on a sandy tombolo linking the limestone headland of the Great Orme to the mainland. The Mostyn estate still owns the land and strictly enforced covenants ensure that buildings are maintained and the town retains a crisp and cared-for appearance. Today, it is the main shopping centre for the North Wales coast, this being evident by the bustling main thoroughfare of Mostyn Street. Certainly, the sunny almost Mediterranean skies helped present the town in a most favourable light.