Snowdon is not a peak I go up very often any more as it’s one of the busiest places I go to these days. However, as it is the highest peak in Wales and the target destination for my group, I suggested that we try for an early start to beat the crowds. With the forecast looking reasonable, we committed to a 04:45am alarm call…

As well as beating (some!) of the crowds, it also meant that we’d get to share witnessing the sunrise, which is always a special moment.

After hiking by torchlight, in the pitch black, under a starry sky, the glow on the horizon eventually got brighter and we stopped for a breakfast of porridge, while the a showered passed by. Then the main event started.

We sat and watched – the early start had been worth it!

Without the need for head torches we continued up the mountain in a beautiful light that reflected on the hillside as the skies began to clear.

Further up, we discovered a dusting of fresh snow had fallen overnight! The first of the season!

We were beaten to the summit by the train, which unloaded just in front of us, so despite our alpine start, we still had to endure a five minute wait, to actually touch the top of the mountain! But at least the views were good.

Everyone was delighted to reach the summit, especially as last years team had had to turn back from lower down. A slow but steady pace took us down the Miners Track to the awaiting mini bus.

Everyone one agreed that the mini bus seats had never felt so comfortable and that somethings are really worth getting up early for! Everyone was soon asleep as we returned to base. While everyone went for showers, Clare and I continued south to Fort Martin!