Van Travels in Mid-Wales

We've been away in the van on a mini climbing road trip for the last few days around Southern Snowdonia and Mid-Wales. It didn't take long to throw our climbing bags and a bit of food into the back, and we were all set. After stopping off briefly in Betws to pick up a new climbing guide, we found ourselves making our first stop in the Moelwyns.

There was a lot of low cloud in the air and the ever-present threat of rain, but we decided to try and get some climbing done anyway. We chose a suitable route and set off up. The rock was just about staying dry. Every now and then a little wave of drizzle would pass by, but never amounted to anything. The rock has all positive holds, but the gear was a little fiddley to find and place.

Having made it to the top of the cliff, we located the descent route - which involved walking down through an old mining incline tunnel! Pitch black to start!

Once we got through the tunnel, we carried on down the steep incline to the road and eventually the van, where we made a brew and kicked back on the sofa with some cupcakes.

It was dark by the time we reached Dolgellau, but enjoyed a great evening in the warmth of The Royal Ship Hotel, in the centre of town, before finding somewhere to camp nearby.

Thursdays plans changed by the hour and having got rained off an ascent of 'one ofMid-Wales' Finest Climbs' (Will 'O The Wisp), we turned our attention over to Cader Idris. It was nice when we arrived at the car park, but the mountain was covered in mist and it started raining soon after!

Unperturbed, we drove west along the estuary to Barmouth. The climbs in the quarry were dry, but a very strong cold wind was blowing through the ravine, making it too cold for the climbing to be enjoyable!

Barmouth is a nice little town though and after strolling the streets, we went for a coffee down by the waters edge, before carrying on with the tour. Harlech was next, followed by Criccieth.

Here we were able to enjoy a blustery walk along the coast, before going for dinner at Dylans restaurant with is brilliantly positioned right on the waters edge.

Finished the night by meeting up with some friends in Llanberis after a walk along the promenade...

Moelwyns - Craig Yr Wrysgan:

- Y Gelynen, V.Diff**