First Trip To Wales Part One
The first Trip to Wales photographing was on 14 August 2022
This was the first day of two days.
First location Pistyll Rhaeadr
Pistyll Rhaeadr is a spectacularly beautiful waterfall situated in Powys, Wales. Tumbling down from a staggering height of 240 feet (73 metres), it is considered one of the most impressive waterfalls in all of Britain. Nestled amidst verdant foliage and a vast variety of wildlife, it is a favourite haunt of nature enthusiasts and wanderlust-stricken travellers alike. Visitors to Pistyll Rhaeadr can enjoy a vast array of activities, from hiking trails and picnic areas to marvelling at the breathtaking views of the cascading waters. The surroundings are equally enchanting and provide exquisite glimpses of the Berwyn Mountains, Lake Vyrnwy and the Horseshoe Pass. Be sure to linger into the evenings as well, when it is rumoured the spirit of a drowned maiden may be seen by night. Amazingly, the name “Pistyll Rhaeadr” means “spring of the waterfall” in Welsh, evocative of the waterfall’s natural origins. The area surrounding Pistyll Rhaeadr has been bestowed the honour of being designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest, due to its unique and fascinating combination of rare plants and geological textures. All in all, Pistyll Rhaeadr makes for an unforgettable and ethereal experience, a poetic melding of nature and history.
Second location Lake Vyrnwy
Lake Vyrnwy is a man-made reservoir located in northern Wales, in the Gwynedd county. It was created in the late 19th century to provide drinking water for Liverpool, through a dam constructed on the Vyrnwy River. Today, it is a popular tourist destination because of its scenic location, surrounded by the Berwyn Mountains.
The lake is almost 5 miles long and covers an area of more than 1,000 acres. There are various activities available for visitors, including hiking, boating and fishing. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as red kites, peregrine falcons, otters and rare Welsh mountain goats.
The lake and the surrounding countryside are maintained by Welsh Water, which has also built a visitor centre providing information about the history and ecology of the area. There are also several accommodation options available nearby, including hotels, B&Bs and self-catering cottages.
On to the third location Beddgelert
Nestled in the very heart of Snowdonia in Wales lies the beautiful village of Beddgelert, a place renowned for its unspoiled beauty and cultural richness. This idyllic haven boasts stunning surroundings, steeped in history and offering an array of outdoor activities for adventure seekers. Majestically positioned on the banks of the River Colwyn and located near the foot of Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales, this village offers truly breathtaking views of the lush Welsh countryside. Hospitality is a way of life here, with traditional charm woven into every fabric of life. Visitors can take a stroll through the winding streets, checking out the terraced homes, pubs, and shops brimming with Welsh culture. Legends also abound in Beddgelert, with the Gelert tale of faithfulness and loyalty to Prince Llewellyn being of particular note. Truly, Beddgelert is your gateway to a one-of-a-kind Welsh adventure- a perfect fusion of history, culture, and outdoor escapades.
Forth location
Dinorwig Quarry is a former slate quarry located in the Welsh town of Llanberis, Gwynedd. It was in operation from the early 19th century until its closure in 1969. Today, it is home to the Dinorwig Power Station, a hydroelectric power station that takes advantage of the quarry’s natural terrain. The station is capable of generating up to 1,728 MW of electricity, making it one of the largest pumped-storage hydroelectric power stations in the world.
Anglesey Barracks is a former military barracks located near the town of Dinorwig in Gwynedd. It was built in 1810 to house troops during the Napoleonic Wars, and later served as a training ground for the British Army during both World War I and World War II. Today, the barracks are no longer in use and have been partially demolished.
Dali’s Hole is a small cave located in the Dinorwig Slate Quarries. It was named after Salvador Dali, who visited the quarries and was reportedly inspired by their surreal landscape. The cave is said to have been a popular spot for quarry workers to take their lunch breaks, and today it is sometimes used as a location for underground adventure activities.
Forth and final location Caernarfon
Caernarfon Castle is a medieval fortress located in the town of Caernarfon, North Wales. It was built by King Edward I in the late 13th century as part of his campaign to conquer Wales. The castle is known for its impressive architecture, which blends military strength with royal grandeur. Its walls, towers, and gateways are constructed from locally quarried stone of exceptional quality. The castle also features an inner ward, a great hall, and a chapel. Today, Caernarfon Castle is a popular tourist destination, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the castle’s interior and climb its towers for stunning views of the surrounding area. The castle also hosts reenactments and other events throughout the year, providing a glimpse into life during the medieval period.
