Large Outdoors run sociable walking weekends across the UK. Read here about their trip to Treks Bunkhouse in Ffestiniog Snowdonia.
Large Outdoors weekends are about providing guests with some great walking in the company of knowledgeable guides. We also think that its really important that we create the right atmosphere back at base so that our guests can easily socialise and relax. This is why Treks Bunkhouse is a great find for us as the lounge and dining areas, together with the outside seating with those jaw-dropping views, really lend themselves to socialising.
Arriving at Treks Bunkhouse.
On our previous trips to Ffestiniog the scenery from Treks Bunkhouse has always been a popular topic of conversation as guests arrive on the Friday evening and then carries on as the group heads down the road to the Pengwern Arms for a quick pint before coming back and sitting down to our ‘ice breaker’ curry.
With the multitude of routes on offer we’re spoilt for choice in this quiet walkers’ paradise but we tend to earmark a bigger walk on the Saturday, usually an ascent of Cadair Idris. We head south from the bunkhouse and start our walk on the Minffordd path which winds its way first through beautiful oak woodland and then onto open fell and more rugged terrain. As we skirt the boulders and crags the full glory of the amphitheatre with the glacial blue waters of Llyn Cau below comes into view, a sight that makes the stiff climb up to the summit worthwhile.
From the summit we then follow the wide ridge, accompanied by intoxicating mountains views that make you feel as though you are a world away from everyday life, before our second mountain top of the day at Myndd Moel. From here we descend back into the valley with the fresh air and scenery having injected a new level of chatter into the group!
Back at Treks Bunkhouse
Back at the bunkhouse we find the group falls into two categories: those with endless energy who head down to the pub for an early doors pint and those who are happy to continue relaxing in the lounge. Later we serve a three-course dinner and re-live the day’s adventures over a drink or two.
Sunday’s walking depends on the group. Previous trips have included a brisker walk to ascend Moelywn Mawr, a lovely mountain with commanding views across the Vale of Ffestiniog, Tremadoc Bay and the Llyn Peninsula. Alternatively we might explore the area’s gentler side with a valley walk or head to the Glaslyn Estuary for a stroll through woodland and across the beaches. In fact sometimes we hang up the walking boots totally and hop on-board the Ffestiniog Railway – a great trip on an atmospheric steam train that is a relaxing way to see the sights.
After all this, we congregate for a final pub meal at lunchtime before heading back home. All-in-all, we feel the Treks Bunkhouse is great for groups as it provides a real feeling of escapism while still having the essentials on-tap after a day out in the hills (including plenty of hot water, warm living room and a pub just a 10-minute walk away).
If you are planning your own walking trip to Snowdonia you can view a map of bunkhouses in Snowdonia. To take part in a social walking holiday visit the the Large Outdoors website to find out more about the great weekends they offer at Treks Bunkhouse and other locations around the UK.