Valley Winds and Rock Climbing

Just returned from a great two days on Gwern Gof Isaf campsite in Capel Curig. The scenery was absolutely amazing and because we were in the campervan we were directed away from the crowds and told to find a space to the right of the house. It was just us in a beautiful valley.

The winds whipped around through the night and there was a couple of times we had to hold on but we survived and it was worth it to spend two quiet days in such an amazing place.

The kids loved the nearby little stream and spent a pleasant hour dipping their nets and throwing stones. Emily discovered a passion for rock climbing and kept disappearing off up the hills.

We had a little trip to Betws y coed. The children had £10 each to spend on a birthday present each for us (we share a birthday). I can't wait for tomorrow to see what delights they have bought! We had to have one present each early, the two plastic bowls, as there was nothing for them to have their weetabix in this morning. (just something else we forgot to take, along with any pants for Alana!).

We also bought two stripy mugs for all future campervan cups of tea.

I think we are settling into the campervan better this time. The children actually slept really well. They didn't wake until 7.40 this morning and keeping things in order and cooking are getting easier too. You know what humans are like and we are no different; we have established our little routines!

A note about the campsite, it is absolutley beautiful and quiet, although the tent field was quite busy. It attracted walkers and climbers and some families. The facilities were very basic, but it was reasonably priced and the owner was friendly. It was right off the A5 but don't let this put you off as the traffic was far enough away to be of no hinderance at all. http://www.gwerngofisaf.co.uk/

A Maiden Voyage

And we're off...! Our first proper camping trip. Ruthin was the destination and a test run was the mission.

The weather was hot and the hills were steep but we made it to the beautiful campsite of Gwerd Lake. It is a fishery and campsite with the added bonus of a shop and cafe. This might make it sound commercialised but it was lovely and quiet, the staff were friendly and the views were breathtaking. The only thing that it let it down were the loos and showers but they were working on new ones while we were there and they should be up and running in the next week. http://www.gwerdylakes.co.uk/

I can't continue without mentioning the fabulous Raven Inn, at the bottom of the long steep hill. A gem of a pub which was run by the community; food, ale or staff couldn't have been better, we would travel the hour just for lunch. If you are in the area make sure you stop in. http://www.raveninn.co.uk/

Beach 1 and 2 visited too! On Sunday we took a scenic drive over to Rhyl and Prestatyn. We have family connections and took a momentous photograph outside Stu's Grandparents old chip shop (now an aquarium shop).

The kids played on the sand, until we became too concerned about the sludge!! The best bit was a picnic, in the van, on the sea front, looking out to sea and basking in the sun.

We took the old coast road home through Flint where the traffic flowed at Clementine's pace; harking back to the days of old when holidays to Wales involved a mini and a four hour journey!