Swallow Falls to Betws-y-Coed

After a very comfortable night in the excellent Dol Peris Guesthouse (contender for the best accommodation in Llanberis), the next day dawned bright and clear. Out on the High Street there was a spring-like feel to the day. 

We had pick of the mountains to choose from for today's hike, but sadly I'd rather worn the group out on Snowdon yesterday! All thoughts of another big day in the hills were swapped for a leisurely start and a full cooked breakfast! It soon became clear that a valley walk was going to be more appropriate. Once we'd eventually checked out, we drove around to Capel Curig and started our walk from the Towers Outdoor Education Centre, where I once did part of my teaching practice.

It's a beautiful and dramatic walk along the river banks of the Llugwy and then up along the cliff edge above the famous Swallow Falls and then into the forest.

We dropped down to the Miners Bridge, where we stopped for some lunch and to watch the rapids. I'd not been down by the river in ages and enjoyed a little reminisce about when I kayaked the river for the first time as part of my degree course at JMU.

Finally, we followed the river to Betws-y-Coed, where were concluded the weekend with a de-brief over a hot drink. Despite the coldness of the mountains yesterday, it was mild enough to sit outside.