The wind blew strongly all night and by morning it was only just
above freezing. I had good views but they were hazy. I packed up
and was underway before 8am. I’d realised that my planned camp
for the night wouldn't be possible as it is at the top of one of
the toughest climbs in Wales. I knew I’d have to push the bike
but multiple 1in7s and 1in5s would be too much. I had a short
steep hill up to the top of Bryn y Fedwen (Birch Hill) then a
long descent to the B4518.
I turned left to head north along the valley bottom and through
Dolgadfan to Llanbrynmair. I met the main A470 then crossed it
to follow the narrow lane to Pandy. Up ahead I could see the
road heading between mountains and wondered what hills awaited.
As it turned out most of the way was rideable. The final bit
just before the A458 was a tough push and must have been 1in5.
Church at Llan.
Top of the 1in5.
I turned left on the main road and cycled down to Mallwyd and a
roundabout at the main A470. I’d already decided that my only
option was to get back to Dolgellau today. I reached Dinas
Mawddwy where my original plan was to turn right to the Bwlch y
Groes (Pass of the Cross). This wasn't to be so I continued
along the main A470 which was still going to be tough over the
Bwlch Oerddrws. The final mile was a long push all the way.
Approaching the summit I could see several people standing
around and not moving. When I got to the parking area I realised
they were waiting for passing aircraft but none came while I
cycled down the long descent.
Bwlch Oerddrws
Bwlch Oerddrws
I reached the Cross Foxes Inn where I was yesterday then
continued down to the turn off for Brithdir. Here I descended to
the Afon Wnion then crossed the bridge to the main A494. On the
opposite side I joined the narrow steep road heading back up to
the start of my ride. I knew what to expect so pushed away. It
didn’t take as long as I was expecting and I got back to the car
around 13:30. Caroline wasn't there so I packed my bike in the
car and drove home.
