5th Year trip to Snowdonia

How will one ever know whether something is for them without giving it a go? This was very much in the minds of a group of intrepid explorers from the 5th year as we travelled to Snowdonia. Throughout the weekend such things as facing your fears and stepping out of your comfort zone were discussed.

 
We arrived at Dolgam campsite in Snowdonia, our home for the next few days late in the afternoon. We pitched our tents just in time as, typically, it started to rain soon after. We had a large evening meal (very necessary for what lay ahead) and then visited the nearby town of Betws-Y-Coed where we were able to stock up on supplies and have a gentle stroll along the river. After this it was back to the campsite for our first night under the stars (or rain clouds as it proved to be that night).

After breakfast on day two we travelled to Nantgwynant where we met Clive and Danny, our guides for the next couple of days. From here we took the Watkin path that took us to the summit of Snowdon. For many this was the first time they had climbed a mountain, something that I feel is a very special occasion and one commented that it was the most amazing walk they had ever been on. The latter stages of the ascent were by far the toughest as the gradient got steeper and steeper. All dug deep and made it to the summit and some stunning views over the surrounding area. We took the Miner’s path down and finished at Pen-Y-Pass. From here we visited the Pen-Y-Gwryd Hotel. This is where many British Everest expeditions have been planned and there are signatures on the ceiling of each person who has been on these expeditions, including Edmund Hillary and Chris Bonnington (and also one of the Beverley Sisters!!). We slowly made our way back to the campsite possibly to face the biggest fear of the weekend – Mr Watt’s Barbeque! All slept very well that evening.

After some bacon sandwiches we headed off to a gorge near Trawsfynedd. After kitting up in wetsuits, helmets, buoyancy aids and harnesses we walked to the top of the gorge. It was quite a shock to the system as we first entered the water. The night before had seen a little snow fall on the mountains and this had melted and was coming straight down the gorge, making the water extremely cold. We made our way down the gorge, jumping off ledges into plunge pools and swimming through small ravines as we went. This was definitely something new for everyone involved. After this we headed off to Beddgelert and a short stroll around the village and a well deserved ice cream.

The next day we slowly headed back to school with some very good memories. Did we face our fears? Some certainly did. Did we step out of our comfort zone? Without a doubt. Will anyone feel that perhaps they have found something new that maybe they feel is for them? I do hope so.

Jon Watt