The 2023 Christmas trip saw us return to the Snowdonia Mountain Hostel in Nant Ffrancon with record numbers! Typical December weather (i.e. quite a lot of rain) led to some careful choices of timing and activities, with no less than four different options on Saturday. Those who were most prepared to battle the elements walked the whole ridge above the hostel – from Carnedd y Filiast to Y Garn. A little lower down, but not much less windy, there was some exploring around Dinorwig quarries and Cwm Idwal. The largest group set out around the Cwm Bychan and Fisherman’s Path loop, including an out-and-back to Moel y Dyniewyd for an obligatory summit, a surprise cave and the raging waters of the Afon Glaslyn. Everyone was back in time for the traditional Christmas feast and the newly elected social secretary’s evening entertainment.

Sunday started with a huge breakfast and a long wait for the torrential rain to pass through. A short but tough walk over ‘the knobbly bits’ near Capel Curig ensued, reaching the excellent viewpoints of Crimpiau and Craig Wen, and finishing as dusk fell. Those who wanted more than just wet feet sought out wild swimming opportunities instead.