Friday, 1st July 2022

Marking the start of our second weekend walking trip. Nine of us set off for a much-anticipated return to the cozy cottages near Betws-y-Coed, where we had stayed during our inaugural trip in October 2021. This time, we planned to explore new areas of North Wales while reliving the charm of our previous experience.

Our journey began with a delightful rendezvous at Loggerheads Country Park near Ruthin. Over coffee and a refreshing walk, the park offered us a perfect taste of the natural beauty awaiting us. After soaking in the atmosphere, we continued our journey to the cottages nestled in the hills above Betws-y-Coed. Upon arrival, we settled in and enjoyed an evening filled with great company, a delicious Jacobs Join (a potluck-style meal contributed to by everyone), and lively conversation. With spirits high, we retired for the night, eager to embark on the first day of walking.

Saturday: Trefriw, Scenic Views, and Ancient History

Saturday morning began with a hearty breakfast in the spacious kitchen of the main cottage, fueling us for the day’s adventure. We then drove to Trefriw, the starting point of our walk.

The trail began with a steep climb, rewarding us with breathtaking views of Snowdonia’s rolling hills. Along the way, we discovered an 11th-century church nestled in the fields, notable for remaining untouched by Victorian restoration. After exploring the historic site, we continued through meandering paths and fields, eventually reaching Llyn Geirionydd—a serene lake we had visited the previous year. This time, we enjoyed a leisurely stroll along its shore, delighting in the absence of the torrential rain we experienced in 2021 and instead relishing blue skies and sunshine.

Leaving the lake behind, the trail led us through the enchanting Crafnant Valley, where we encountered remnants of its industrial past, including the old mine workings and the Klondyke Mill, which ceased operation in 1911. From there, we descended through ancient oak woodlands before arriving back in Trefriw. Here, we treated ourselves to coffee and cake, basking in the warmth of the sun.

That evening, we returned to the cottages to a wonderful home-cooked meal prepared by our friends Ben and Sally. The night unfolded with delicious food, laughter, and conversation before we retired to recharge for the next day’s adventure

Sunday: Capel Garmon, Burial Chambers, and Fairy Glen

Sunday dawned, and after another shared breakfast in the main cottage, we set out on a walk led by Annik—this time directly from the cottages.

Our route began along a quiet lane that gently rose into the hills, leading us to the picturesque village of Capel Garmon. Strolling through the quaint village, we eventually arrived at the Capel Garmon Burial Chamber, a fascinating archaeological site dating back to 1900 BC. We paused here for coffee, taking shelter from a brief rain shower within the ancient chambers.

As the rain subsided, we continued uphill before navigating a challenging section through dense, overgrown woods. Emerging from the woodland, we passed a curious garden adorned with mannequin body parts arranged in peculiar and eerie positions. Leaving this strange sight behind, we pressed on toward Betws-y-Coed, where we visited the enchanting Fairy Glen. The final stretch of our walk took us up a long hill, leading us back to the cottages.

That evening, we celebrated the end of our trip with another night of feasting, storytelling, and laughter. It was the perfect conclusion to a truly memorable weekend.

Sunday: Capel Garmon, Burial Chambers, and Fairy Glen

Sunday dawned, and after another shared breakfast in the main cottage, we set out on a walk led by Annik—this time directly from the cottages.

Our route began along a quiet lane that gently rose into the hills, leading us to the picturesque village of Capel Garmon. Strolling through the quaint village, we eventually arrived at the Capel Garmon Burial Chamber, a fascinating archaeological site dating back to 1900 BC. We paused here for coffee, taking shelter from a brief rain shower within the ancient chambers.

As the rain subsided, we continued uphill before navigating a challenging section through dense, overgrown woods. Emerging from the woodland, we passed a curious garden adorned with mannequin body parts arranged in peculiar and eerie positions. Leaving this strange sight behind, we pressed on toward Betws-y-Coed, where we visited the enchanting Fairy Glen. The final stretch of our walk took us up a long hill, leading us back to the cottages.

That evening, we celebrated the end of our trip with another night of feasting, storytelling, and laughter. It was the perfect conclusion to a truly memorable weekend.