Atop Sygun Mountain

When I was much younger, I spent quite a lot of time walking over mountains in all weathers, in fact I was a member of the British Mountaineering Council, though never in the vertical rock face sense.  Being older and wiser and a lot less fit, I have since moved on to other interests.

On a recent visit to Wales and to Sygun Copper Mine, a whim took me and Rosie up Sygun Mountain, along the old pass.  It is many years since I have walked up such a hill and we were surprised to make the top.   Though it was overcast, the days temperature was rising and the protective clothing ended up being stowed in the camera bag and around our waists.

Looking from the ridge top below the sumit towards Yr Aran.  This mountain goes off to the right in the photograph.  It is 744m high and one of the hills surrounding Mount Snowdon, beyond.  At 1035m, Snowdon is the highest mountain in Wales.

The view on the other side of the ridge looks out towards Moelwym Mawr, which is hidden behind the clouds.  That is 770m high and between Sygun and Blaenau Ffestiniog.

The view down the Gwynant Valley towards Beddgelert was stunning, though very overcast.

The mountain path follows the ridge of Sygun Mountain and drops down to Llyn Dinas.  The return route is along the river to the Mine at Sygun.  From the summit, the ridge and descent is easier than the climb up.  However, we went down the hard way, taking an additional path as it was a quicker route to the cafe and a sensible refreshment.  We took the riverside walk to the lake afterwards.
If you are feeling fit, this walk is a good day out.  Otherwise, there is always the mine tour, the shop and the cafe to enjoy.
http://www.syguncoppermine.co.uk/