One of those days where everything goes right - a day that is firmly fixed in your memory bank, a day that was fun, successful and had a massive sense of achivement.
I had asked some BWFW members for their involvement for what would be a very tough walk - the whole of the Pumlumon massif using the Cambrian Way, with a view to offering this walk later in the year. This part of the Cambrian Way is remote and, especially the northerly section, is little walked. I briefed the group that if we had blue skies it would spectacular but if the weather was bad, then the walk would be very tough. The weather was bad....but we had a lot going in our favour - it wasn't cold and the wind direction was SW and we were walking from the SW. When we were on the mountain, ie in the clouds the rain wasn't heavy, just foggy and damp. The wind and driving rain increased as the day went on but we just kept going, nothing dampened our spirits, and there was a feel of elation the whole way. Even in these conditions the walk was spectacular - Pumlumon never fails to disappoint and arriving at Hengwm Valley reaffirmed my love for it's unique and mystical remoteness - it was a pleasure to bring others to this valley and then to see a solitary heron battling against the wind to take flight added to our fantastic experience. We set off at 0830 and bang on 1530 we reached the van at the end point (the minimum time I had estimated) and we hadn't see one single other person, not one! On arrival back at the Bryn Walking Van I had left flasks of coffee and chocolate digestives for our return - the Bryn Walking Cafe! I was felt so proud of the group - notice on every photograph they are smiling. Thank you so much for joining Bryn Walking for Women on this fantastic walk and especially to Anabel who made the linear logistics possible. I intend to offer this walk again later in the year: Distance 22km and total ascent 947m
6 Comments
Wendy Cottis
4/1/2023 17:36:01
This was a brilliant walk and so worth the effort of organising a big day out. The sense of wilderness across Pumlumon was great. There was some crazy weather up there which all added to the sense of camaraderie that develops within a group when conditions get a bit tougher. This area always offers up industrial heritage and interesting local stories. Looking forward to more!
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Helen
4/1/2023 17:41:17
You’re right - it is ‘a feel good place’ whatever the weather when you’re with great supportive company.
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Helen
5/1/2023 22:40:29
Thanks Alan
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Lyn Rees
9/1/2023 18:08:34
The walk was really great despite the weather, the wind blew a few cobwebs away ;). Absolutely beautiful landscapes that were visible despite the weather. A stunning part of the Welsh countryside. The walk was enhanced greatly because of the preparation our leader, Helen, had done in advance, and her knowledge of the area was outstanding and added to the whole walk experience.
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helen
10/1/2023 09:29:17
Hi Lyn
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AuthorHelen Menhinick - Mountain Leader Archives
October 2023
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