Spring Hut Meet, April 2026, Philip

Friday

The weekend got off to an early start, with Jolanta and Trevor exploring the hills around Nantmor and Beddgelert. Meanwhile, I tackled an impressive 75 km road ride, cycling around the perimeter of Yr Wyddfa. By the end of the day, the wind was already beginning to build, setting the tone for what would become a blustery and decidedly Baltic Saturday.

Saturday

Trevor, Jolanta and I headed onto the Nantlle Ridge to visit the fine peaks of Trum y Ddysgl and Mynydd Tal y Mignedd, just south of one of Eryri’s several Y Garns. Despite their reputation, the nearby car parks and ice‑cream stops in Cwm Pennant, the hills were surprisingly quiet.

It was a welcome change to venture away from the usual honeypot routes and enjoy a more remote feel. The slightly lower elevations helped reduce exposure to the worst of the gales and hail sweeping the higher summits, though conditions were still challenging. Approaching the hills from the south proved rewarding, offering a scenic and uncrowded route with plenty of industrial history along the way, including the abandoned copper and lead workings at Prince of Wales Quarry, complete with addits, incline planes, old workers’ barracks and remnants of tram tracks.

The day ended with a memorable pathless descent, during which Trevor quite literally found “a bridge too far,” falling through rotten boards into the stream below. Thankfully, he escaped with only minor bruises—and very little sympathy from his companions.

Back at the hut, Pete and Sam rounded off the day with an excellent evening meal.

Sunday

With a gentler end to the weekend, Trevor and Jola opted for a relaxed stroll along the beach before heading home.