Some days on the hill just stick with you and this was definitely one of them.
I recently enjoyed a cracking little climb on Kirkus’s Route on Craig yr Ogof, classic tucked away in the heart of North Wales’ slate country. The climbing itself was great fun, but the real show-stopper was what greeted us every time we paused to catch our breath. What was equally atmospheric was the raptors that were flying around too.
The views stretch right out across the Moelwyn Mountains and beyond, with layer upon layer of rugged Welsh landscape rolling off into the distance. What really gets you thinking up there, though, is the setting. You’re climbing in the middle of historic slate mining country, surrounded by vast scars and terraces that were carved entirely by hand — just sheer graft, determination, and a work ethic that’s hard to imagine today.
Thousands of tons of rock shifted piece by piece, long before modern gear, power tools, or health and safety paperwork. When men were men, as the saying goes and slate was king.
All in all, a brilliant route, unforgettable views, and a humbling reminder of the history woven into the mountains of Snowdonia (Eryri). One of those days that reminds you why North Wales climbing is so special.