Southwell Ramblers invade Dolgellau
Our Spring walking holiday at the end of April took us to Dolserau Hall, just outside Dolgellau in the southern region of the Snowden National Park. Several of the group arrived at the hotel in time for a leg stretcher walk of a couple of miles either side of the nearby river Clywedog, a torrent of water that thundered through narrow gullies in a nearby wood.
Day 2 of our trip saw perfect walking weather in the mountains. After a hearty breakfast and making sure that we had our picnic lunch a group of 8 set off to trek to the summit of Cadair Idris (Penygadair) just 70 feet short of the magical 3000 feet. The views from the summit were magnificent. Meanwhile a party of 3 set off to complete a 5-mile circuit around Arthog with equally picturesque views across the estuary to Barmouth whilst another group explored the quaint town of Dolgellau and Barmouth with its long sandy beaches.
On day 3 one group followed the route of the old railway line at the side of the river Wnion from Dolgellau until it joined the river Mawddach and then on to the estuary at Barmouth. The scenery was again breathtaking and varied as the trail passed through marsh land, woods and pastures surrounded by those lovely mountains. Meanwhile a second party were completing the Panorama Walk, a short but strenuous walk (1400 feet of climbing) in the hills behind Barmouth with is its spectacular viewpoints over the Mawddach Estuary, the Cader Idris mountain range and Cardigan Bay. Meanwhile a third group visited Harlech Castle, Edward I’s coastal fortresses sitting astride a sheer rocky crag overlooking the dunes and Tremadoc Bay.
Day 4’s walk was also completed in perfect weather conditions. Just one walk today following the route of the New Precipice Walk. The "Precipice" refers to a flat track cut into the valley side, on the slopes of Foel Ispri, and makes use of an old tramway which was built to serve the workings of the long-abandoned Voel goldmine.
We must thank Dave and Jim, Jean, Sandy, Pamela and Christine for being brave enough to lead walks and to Keith for organising visits to site of interest, including Harlech Castle and for ensuring that all walkers got to the start points and, just as important, returned to the hotel at the end of the walk. Our thanks to Marie and the staff at Dolserau Hall for looking after us so well.