Friday, 1st October 2021 marked the beginning of the Lancaster Walking Group’s first-ever walking weekend away. Our destination: the picturesque village of Betws-y-Coed in North Wales. Nestled amidst the beauty of Snowdonia National Park, we were fortunate to have secured four charming cottages just two miles from the village. Remote enough to feel like an escape, yet close enough for easy access by car, the location was ideal.

We arrived in the afternoon to clear skies and a warm autumn evening. After settling into our cottages, we stretched our legs with a gentle stroll through the surrounding fields before returning to prepare for a delightful evening gathering—a Jacob’s Join dinner featuring contributions from everyone

Rain or Shine: Saturday’s Adventures
Saturday morning greeted us with heavy rain, but undeterred, we gathered in the main cottage after breakfast to plan the day. After some discussion, we unanimously decided to embrace the weather and set out for a short walk around Llyn Geirionydd, a beautiful lake just a few miles away.
Navigating narrow country lanes, we arrived at the lake, parked, and geared up for the walk. Despite the rain becoming heavier, the breathtaking scenery and tranquil atmosphere made the experience unforgettable. By the end of the walk, we were thoroughly soaked but also thoroughly satisfied—nothing could dampen our spirits.
Back at the cottages, we dried off and enjoyed a warm lunch indoors before heading into Betws-y-Coed for an afternoon of exploration. We wandered through the quaint village, admiring its shops, bridges, and surrounding woodland, before regrouping for a shared evening meal in the main cottage. It was the perfect way to end a rainy day.