Bob's Bits.

Hobbies & Pastimes Hobbies & Pastimes: Chat / Discussions
1081

Ha ha ha…Newcomer, very perceptive and yes Mrs Fox certainly wears the trousers…:smiley:

Summer, if you’ve never been to Llandudno I can strongly recommend it, built in the Victorian era and the architect insisted that whatever changes were made to the town, the seafront would remain the same, and it has. And if you have already been to Llandudno, how could you possibly stay away. If we don’t go anywhere else throughout the year, Llandudno would still be a must.

Surfermom, Thanks and you are perfectly correct in your assumption. Sunday mornings seven mile run begins along that marvellous promenade towards the Little Orme (only little by name I can assure you) and then a very testing climb over it’s back and then down into the small village of Penrhyn, nestling under the Little Ormes South Eastern flank. A right turn in the village takes you along Glodaeth Lane and back out into the country. With no apparent turnoffs until a large roundabout (a sort of massive circular island with exits in which the rotating traffic has the right of way) and approximately five miles into the run. The third exit is taken and the height gained while ascending the Little Orme can now be used over the next mile to set a good pace all the way downhill back into Llandudno. An early start should guarantee reasonably traffic free roads…Paradise…:cool::cool::cool:

1082

The Great Orme is a massive lump of Limestone over 207 metres high and about 5 miles around its lower flanks. Viewing this enormous rock from the South and it looks quite unnatural, and like it shouldn’t be there, but it gives Llandudno good protection from the scathing North winds and over the years it has been mined for copper, and was the main source of employment in the area, so I’m sure the people of Llandudno are glad that it is there. The summit can be accessed by one of three methods - (1) A very scenic and exciting cable car ride (2) A tramway from Llandudno centre or (3) My preferred method…On foot…:-D:-D:-D

A road was cut into the cliffs around its lower flanks and provides the perfect running or walking route with outstanding views over Snowdonia. Because it is now a toll road traffic is down to a minimum which makes it very safe for cyclists and pedestrians and it was the focus of today’s walk with Mrs Fox.

A good climb right from the start, good for warming up and getting the circulation going…

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10792

Attempting the walk from the Grand Hotel side provides a steady long drawn out climb, but doing the reverse route is very steep indeed. Always keep a lookout over the wall and into the surf where seals can sometimes be seen. Mrs Fox and myself were lucky enough to see a couple staring up at us this morning.

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10793

Unfortunately, seals don’t like to be photographed…
I’ve run and walked this route many times in either direction and a visit to Llandudno would be incomplete without a travis of this marvellous route…But not by car Ay…:cool:

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10794

1083

Lovely scenery Bob and I would imagine walking or running here was very exhilarating. :slight_smile:

1084

Thanks Mags, and yes, it’s so inspiring here, even if you’re not a walker or runner it would be hard not to take advantage of the beautiful vistas around every corner.

It looked nice and dry at 5:45 this morning as I glanced through the window before pulling on the shorts and lacing up my running shoes, the sky was showing early signs of the daylight that was soon to follow with just a scattering of rainclouds lurking on the horizon.
I crossed the street and joined the promenade waiting for my GPS to load the satellites that were necessary to plot an accurate course. Had we been situated in a South facing room I could have left it on the windowsill, but unfortunately we are North facing. Once I’ve established an accurate measurement I won’t need to use it again and the stopwatch will suffice.

After a couple of frustrating minutes it beeped to let me know it was ready and I jogged off along the seafront. The tide was almost at its highest and waves lapped against the shingle beach making the run more interesting than usual. A few spots of rain from a renegade cloud felt cold against my cheeks and legs but the sky was mostly clear and my decision to press on was the correct one. By the time I reach the start of the climb up and over the Little Orme I was running warm and the rain had stopped.

I was surprised how easily I scaled the long and gentle climb, I was sure that the steep climbs I had negotiated in Guernsey had provided ample training for anything North Wales could throw at me. I passed the summit and started my descent into the little village of Penrhyn, running was easy now and I hardly noticed the undulations of Glodaeth Lane, I was surprised how long it was however, and with no footpath along most of it’s length, a careful ear must be kept cocked listening for approaching traffic. It does have a decent verge though, somewhere to leap in the event of an oblivious motorist.

Five miles covered and after leaving Glodaeth Lane at the roundabout I join the dual carriageway down into Llandudno with an ample cycle lane down the side all the way to the bottom where the footpath begins. I pick my way through the streets until I find myself back on the promenade, which now has a generous sprinkling of early morning fitness fanatics enjoying an early morning walk before breakfast. For the first time my legs can feel the distance, but with the last half mile to go I ignore my legs protestations and lift the pace all the way to the finish line…Actually, it’s a row of small Iron posts that mark the end of the promenade…

With breakfast out of the way, and Mrs Fox (She has ventured into the shops for some last minute items) I took the opportunity to post a blog until she returns, and with the sun on our backs, and the wind in our faces we start our assault on the summit of the Great Orme, very nice cafe for lunch at the top…If she makes it…:cool::cool::cool:

1085

What a lovely way to spend a quiet Sunday morning Bob, I quite envy you:-D

1086

It is pure pleasure to read your vivid accounts, Bob. You have me enthralled wtih the scenery and imaging the run bottom to top of the spectacular outcropping. It’s quite a feat, though I’m sure the remarkable vistas and seaks made your ascent that much more enjoyable. I also couldn’t help but be tickled by the feeling of wanting to go, go, go…when the GPS is still acting as if it wants to linger in bed. Having the cool early morning to oneself and be able to watch it awaken is heavenly. Glad you were able to get out there with the other faithful.

Enjoy your Great Orme adventure and thank you so much for taking the time to share the photos and decriptions. You have me reaching for my running shoes…and checking out Google maps…:smiley:

1087

Thanks again Mags and Surfermom, it’s a pleasure to entertain you, and anyone else who dares to peek behind Bob’s secret door…:smiley:

With crampons attached and Ice Axes at the ready Mrs Fox and me made the daring ascent of the Great Orme as planned. We set off under dark threatening skies but undeterred we arrived at the start of the climb in beautiful well manicured gardens that go by the name of Happy Valley.

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10799

The number of steps leading from the gardens to the gate that leads onto the open ground that surrounds the summit runs into four figures according to Mrs Fox - I believe it’s nearer to three figures - so after plenty of rests disguised as photo opportunities we eventually, and slowly, arrived at the Plateau and looked back…

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10800

Llandudno seems to attract a climate all of it’s own, and weather reports are usually deceiving when rain is forecast over the high mountains of Snowdonia not a drop falls on Llandudno. Although the skies above the Great Orme were clearing, not so over the moody looking Mount Snowdon. At over three thousand feet in remains to be (for me) work in progress…

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10801

For now the summit of the Great Orme will have to suffice, as as can be seen, the weather turned out to be quite extraordinary…

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10802

As we leave the summit and take the road down to Llandudno cottages begin to appear with outstanding views of the bay. Mrs Fox likes to imagine which one to purchase…So I let her take the lead…

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10805

All downhill from here as we follow the route of the tram and a surprisingly good cafe’ at the bottom…How interesting it is, that Mrs Fox appears to be on her last legs while making the ascent, but can then spend the next two hours browsing round the shops…

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10803

1088

Super photos OGF, the last time I was in Llandudno was 1992, must make a point of revisiting.

1089

Oh I am enjoying reading these posts OGF.:038:

1090

Fanrastic views from the Great Orme Bob:-D

It’s great following your travels including Mrs Fox too, as and when you can :smiley:

1091

Thanks Spitty, we try and come here every year, if you like walking, running and beautiful scenery then this is the place to come. Trouble is, Mrs Fox and me have these ‘Set Pieces’ that we have to do every time we come such as a walk round the Orme, up the Orme, a walk to Conwy (just completed today) and a walk to Rhos on Sea…I came here with my job around about 1994 Spitty, stayed in this very hotel, and Llandudno hasn’t changed much since then (that’s why we like it) they have built a large retail park at the other end of town though but it hasn’t detracted from Llandudno’s appeal, especially Mrs Foxes appeal at any rate, but it does keep her occupied while I get off for a longer walk …:-D:-D:-D

Thanks Newcomer, it’s very nice to see you here and glad you find it interesting and I can keep you entertained, you’re always welcome…:smiley:

And it’s always nice to see you here Mags. Yes, it was a brilliant day for taking photos yesterday. Not so good today, although we missed the rain (while we were in a cafe having lunch) it was a bit too dark for good photos. I took some anyway, and will post them as soon as I get time…:cool:

1092

I don’t know that from that view towards Mount Snowdon, one would ever pry me away. I am like-minded with Mrs. OGF. At this very moment, I am drawing up house plans for that spot atop Great Orme (now don’t go disappointing me with talk of park ownership, etc. These are just minor details to sort out.)

It’s good to know that you both made the ascent without the need of oxygen tanks or Sherpas. How fortunate you are to have such crystal clear skies!

Are most of the places you are walking part of trail systems, or are you making your own way as you please?

And did you know there is an artificial surf park in Snowdonia? Not sure how I feel about what that did to the landscape, but it does look like great sport…

I shan’t detract this lovely thread though. Back to you, Bob with another round of thanks.

1093

Loved your encounter with the ambulance Surfermom, and the quick witted staff…:slight_smile:

Had to make an early start yesterday so didn’t have time to post a blog so after my usual seven mile run It was a quick shower, breakfast, and while Mrs Fox spent the day ferreting out some bargains at the shops I drove the 30 odd miles to the foot of Mount Snowdon in Llanberis.

I had some unfinished business with the 1085 metre high mountain of blood sweat and tears. Having ascended it on the special little train some years ago I never thought that method was befitting of a fell runner, so today I would make amends before it gets too late…Who knew that as I lay in a hospital bed following a Heart Attack I would scale one of the three highest mountains in Britain…I always knew!

The start is located in Llanberis, the decision to take the train or tackle it on foot is made here at the station…

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10817

Today, I chose the foot method but even before I left the steep climb up the road section I was beginning to think that my seven mile run this morning might have been a mistake…:-(…I was soon on the early slopes and feeling good, the train had set off about the same time…

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10816

There were plenty of other prospective mountaineers making the ascent and one by one I was picking them off. There were just two chaps who set off about the same time as me who I immediately recognised as seasoned hill walkers and although I passed them early on, they eventually caught me up and would arrive at the summit before me…Although the climb was tougher than I expected, I pressed on without a stop - except for photo opportunities - The views just could not be ignored…

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10815

I was not the only one to reach the summit yesterday but all due respect, most of the people standing on the couple of foot of rock that marked the summit had made the gruelling climb the same as me. Unfortunately, even though the weather had seemed perfect down below, it was a different world up here at over three thousand feet, we were surrounded by the cloud and very cold…I hope there’s room up there for a small one…

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10814

While the folks behind toast their success I ask a passer by to take my photo…Brrrrrrrr…

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10813

Believe it or not, there is a cafe high up on the summit adjacent the railway station where you can buy overpriced tea and Tuna and Sweetcorn sandwiches, but you know what…That was the best cup of tea I’ve had for ages…

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10812

The four and a half mile climb took me just under two hours and the descent just one hour and a half. In 1990 I ran the Snowdon Marathon in three hours and eighteen minutes, about the same time as today but although the marathon was much longer it didn’t actually go over the top. It will be a long time until the elation of today’s effort finally wears off…if ever.

1094

Fantastic pictures … I’ve never been up Snowden because every time I intended to do it it’s been thick cloud !!!

1095

Well done on conquering Mount Snowdon, Bob … that must have given you great satisfaction :smiley: You are a very determined man with a purpose, extraordinary after suffering a couple of heart attacks … you well earned that cup of tea at the top! :038:

1096

Thanks Myrtle, funny thing is, when I set off to climb Snowdon the top appeared free from cloud, but on arrival the top it was shrouded with cloud. On the way down I glanced back to see the summit was once again clear. My deduction is:- That it’s always covered in cloud but you just can’t see it from below…:smiley:

Thank’s Mags, I don’t like giving in and will pursue a challenge until one of us has been beaten, I have been beaten a couple of times in the past, but not very often, it will probably be my downfall in the future…:cool:

Surfermom, most of the walks we do here are established rights of way. We tend to use the Coast Path quite often when walking at the seaside. The Coast Path goes right around Great Britain and is approximately 3000 miles long and is open to everyone. When on the moors though I have been known to follow a compass course and forge a path along previously unwalked routes…And yes, I believe I did see something a while back on TV about a wave making machine at a water park somewhere in Wales…Sounds like the equivalent of using a treadmill for runners…Bad Idea!..:-(:-(:frowning:

1097

And seamlessly on to today’s adventure…The mud had hardly dried on my walking shoes when once again we were to scale the dizzy heights of the Little Orme…For Myrtle…
Warmer today but a lot more cloud as we strode off along the mile long promenade to the foot of the Little Orme…Looking back along the promenade to the Great Orme…

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10820

The view from the top which I consider to be one of the best views of Llandudno there is…

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10819

And if Snowdon wasn’t enough, this trigpoint at just 141 Metres high still contains a great view…Even though I do look a bit portly on this shot…Too many egg and bacon breakfasts…

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10818

So that’s almost it for another year, it seems to have flown by, just a seven mile run to do first thing, if I can ever get these stiff muscles to perform. It’s forecast rain in the morning so it looks like being waterproofs at the ready. Whatever happens though, this holiday would not be complete without a last walk around the Great Orme…:smiley:

1098

Tut !!! I’d have come with you up the Little Orme :frowning:

1099

You and me, both, Myrtle!

Well done, Bob, on choosing the trail over the train. What a splendid accomplishment and personal feat! 3,000 feet - wow! No wonder you are elated. You look hardy and fit atop , if not a bit chilly….

I can’t tell you how much I am enjoying the photos and the accounts of this holiday (as well as your others), to the point of ensuring that this area will be on my must-stay places when I am UK bound. What a beautiful region for those who love the great outdoors and the charming appearance of the town itself. I certainly hope you are keeping all of your writing for your friends and family. It is very well done.

Spot on in your comparison pf the surf park to a treadmill. Funny! While artificial surfing won’t be at the top of my list, some of the Coast Path most definitely will be. I can imagine that there will be many people who will want to make the entire circle, but I will have to settle for just some of it. This trail system is an extraordinary and wonderful undertaking that I imagine will be very popular.

Enjoy that last seven mile run, and I wish you safe roads on your return!

1100

Thanks for your nice comments Surfermom, and thanks to everyone who has looked in over the last week. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but if it’s of interest to the few then my work here has not been in vain…I’ve enjoyed writing it…:smiley:

This was the scene in Llandudno this morning, strong winds and torrential rain and it was even worse at 6:15am It was also Dark for my last seven mile run of the holiday and perhaps the toughest test yet of my dedication and resilience…

http://www.over50sforum.com/picture.php?albumid=1292&pictureid=10822

To think that I was even in doubt about going out in my waterproof top, just light drizzle welcomed me to the promenade as I started the watch. Legs as stiff as ironing boards objected to suddenly being forced into action. I even considered the possibility of just running the length of the promenade before turning back if things didn’t get any easier.

By the time I reached the foot of the climb over the Little Orme the rain had eased off and so had the stiffness, although the pace was slow. I managed to keep it going all the way to the top and over the crest of the hill, with cap in hand and sleeves pulled as high as my waterproof would allow, all the problems I had to withstand this morning, being cold was not one of them.

I reached the turn off along Glodaeth Lane and climbed the small rise that confronted me, no problems so far except the rain was coming a little stronger, so on went the cap and hood and with coat zipped up, I pushed hard with the rain in my face. As the footpath ran out I skipped onto the road, the next couple of miles would be without it’s protection, and with water now swirling down the gutter it had permeated my shoes and was being absorbed into my socks.

My quads were beginning to tighten and as cloud overflowed into the valley so the rain began to increase, I had left all the buildings and houses of Penrhyn behind me now and was running in open countryside, not the best of places to stop, so with ever tiring legs I turned into the wind and battled on. It was as I approached the end of the road a figure came walking around the bend, as soon as he spotted me he rose onto his toes and started running. It was 6:30 on a windy dark rainsoaked morning and the young runner, dressed in just shorts and vest passed in the opposite direction and without stopping I issued a few words of encouragement, to which he acknowledged, and then disappeared into the mist and we both continued on our respective journeys…

I negotiated the roundabout on to a dual carriageway with an ample cycle/running track down the side and set about tackling the last climb of the day. Rain thundered down and traffic roared past throwing spray over my body, my aching legs begged me to stop, but the top of the hill grew closer and closer until suddenly I was faced with a panoramic view of Llandudno all the way down to the sea front. My pace quickened and as I made my way back onto the sea front and the promenade, still the rain cascaded down in bucketfuls but I would not be denied the last quarter mile sprint to the obelisk that marked the end of another very testing run…