Today we completed something that we feel might have been a once in a life time ride around the National Park. We'd always been put off from this obvious challenge by the thought of the dangers and unpleasantness of passing traffic, but in these strange times, the traffic has all but been eliminated. Just the challenge and lure of the ride remained. Having building up our bike fitness over the last few months, the weather looked set for optimum conditions on Sunday morning. Light winds and clearing skies. We set off at 08:45 from The Cottage, straight up the hill to get the steepest section over as soon as possible. From there, it was downhill to Llanberis.
We skirted around the village, staying close to the lake shore. By this point, we had only seen six cars. We didn't see another until we were past Capel Curig over an hour later!
As we set off up the Llanberis Pass, there was still a bit of cloud hugging the summits.
Soon enough, we passed the Cromlech Boulders and the crags above.
Just above the boulders, the road conditions changed to super-smooth new tarmac. All was quiet as we made steady uphill progress, side by side, with a road lane each to cycle in. It was as if the Pass had been closed off for a private viewing!
Finally, the high point of Pen y Pass Youth Hostel came into sight.
No cars in the Snowdon Car Park today....
We had a brief sip of water, before enjoying miles and miles of empty winding downhill riding. Incredible.
The skies were also looking amazing as we continued to Capel Curig.
Soon, Snowdon was a distant view as we passed a deserted Plas y Brenin.
You never notice them in a car, but there are old milestones all the way along the A5.
The odd car came past on the home stretch, but mostly, we could concentrate on enjoying the views.
Tryfan looked particularly fine as we passed by the base of the North Ridge.
Goats were the only signs of like at Ogwen Cottage.
We were back home just after midday, with a 46km ride done. 660m of vertical ascent as well. A afternoon of relaxing in the sun filled back garden was completely justified and very much enjoyed too. Amazing Ride. Incredible conditions. Feeling well pleased!
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