A55 Sport Climbing

Despite the crystal clear blue skies, the temperatures have halved over night and today, despite appearances, it was only just into double figures when I picked up my group of students for some sport climbing.

There is a whole guidebook dedicated to the crags along the A55, which runs along the north coast of Wales. We were careful today though, to choose one that actually faced south to ensure that we were sheltered from the cold winds. We chose wisely and found ourselves basking in the sunshine while enjoying some good, sheltered, sunny climbs.

In fact, it got so hot that we stopped on the way back for a little light refreshment. When it’s this good in Wales, you’ve really got to make the most of it!

On my way back to The Cottage, I randomly bumped into John at Junction, who dropped into conversation that he had his climbing kit in the car and was keen for a climb. Always one to grab an opportunity, ten minutes later, we were enjoying the peaceful coastal walk into Penmeanbach. For some reason, the sun must have gone to our heads as when we reached the climbs, we walked straight past the lower grade (enjoyable) routes and headed straight for one of the hardest routes on the level – lured in by the guidebook description ‘best route in the area’.

We got to the top, but not without a good amount of sweating, straining, several points of aid and a short stop on a small ledge to answer a phone call from Clare!