Sunday 19th May, 2019
Mines and Minerals
The Gwydir Forest was once alive with slate and (mostly) metal mines; indeed in the early 19th century the population of tiny Llanrhychwyn was greater than that of Trefriw! We’ll be passing some ten workings, both large and small, as we explore this pretty area on Trefriw’s doorstep.
We will walk from Trefriw up the steep path to Llanrhychwyn, firstly passing the old slate caverns on the edge of the Gwydir Forest. We then descend through the forest to Hafna mine – the largest remains in the area – before passing Parc Mine (the last to close), the tiny Vale of Conwy mine, and Llanrwst mine up at Nant BH. Our return route takes us past the scenic lakes of Bwlch-y-gwynt and Glangors and the panoramic views above the remains of Pandora mine, which fed ore to the mill at Klondyke, which we’ll also pass. We descend to Trefriw on a scenic path above the Crafnant valley.
We’ll be back in time for our now-legendary Cake Fest.
Duration: All Day. Please bring a packed lunch.
Distance: 9.5 miles / 15 km
Grade: Moderate, though with a steep start.
Meet: 9.05 a.m. at Trefriw Village Hall (LL27 0JH, SH781631)
or, if the Village Hall repairs are not completed in time, at Peniel Chapel, LL27 0JL, just a minute’s walk up the road opposite the hall.
Walk Leaders: Karen Martindale and Jan Blaszkiewicz
Click on the map to see the rough location of this walk.
Booking: To book a place on this walk, click on the ‘register’ button below.
Please ensure that you have read the booking information, terms and conditions before you attend any walks.