Friday, June 02, 2023

Carneddau loop

Peaks: Pen yr Ole Wen, Carnedd Dafydd, Carnedd Llewellyn
Area: Carneddau, Eryri
Something of a time-trail over a loop I have done many times, going back 35 years: in fact, this is probably the Snowdonian outing I have done most often - or variants of it. The plan was to put a bit of an effort in to the top of Pen, move reasonably quickly over the ridge to Llewellyn, then run at a steady/slow pace down to the road. The weather has been stunning for quite some time now, a northerly airflow stopping things from getting too sticky while also rendering all views crystal clear with no haze, a wonderful combination creating almost perfect conditions. I took a direct approach to the style from the A5, then stuck more closely to the standard path - unusually dry - up to the bad step and ridge beyond. Kept a decent pace throughout and got to the summit in 41 minutes from the road, which was quite pleasing. Enjoyed the stunning clarity across to the Glyderau, then trotted over Carnedd Fach and Dafydd for another short break. Then the long haul out to Llewellyn in exhilerating conditions - a cool breeze and incredibly clear views under an azure sky. Had it all to myself, as well as the summit. I took some good lines on the descent down to Bwlch Eryl Farchog and its little scramble. I then plunged down towards Ffynnon Llugwy and the steep access road that leads back to the A5. A helicopter was picking up ballast here, and I was warned to 'be mindful' by a workman, but it didn't interfere and I got to the road 31 minutes after leaving the summit of Llewellyn, less than two hours for the loop. 

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