free to be able to rate and comment on reports (as well as access 1:25000 mapping).
On my ongoing new years resolution to flood WalkHighlands with at least one walk report a day, this one is off the normal beaten path! Tucked in a quiet spot south of Cadiar Idris, the two hewitts of Tarren y Gesail and Tarrenhendre are not what you would call classics (!) but in the right conditions are a very pleasant way to spend a day away from the crowds.
A walk of three thirds, the first and last parts from and to Abergynolwyn involve forestry roads and to be perfectly honest aren't the most exciting of routes. The middle section which takes in the two hills and the Foel y Geifr 'ridge' between is a lovely wander with nothing taxing and plenty of good views.
The round of Bryn Eglwys quarry could be extended to visit some of the old workings and the lower valley, but other than the terminus of the Talyllyn railway that used to service the quarry, the route stays away from the industrial past. In fact it's hard to believe there was ever a quarry there at all.
Anyway, the pictures!
Typical view for the first few miles - winding up the hill side on some very friendly gradients!
Cadiar Idris - the main focal point for most of the day.
Tarrenhendre from the slopes of Tarren y Gesail
Top of Tarren y Gesail above the cloud to the South. Probably Plynlimon and friend poking out the top!
Same but with daft Jake adding to the shot!
The Foel y Geifr 'ridge'. Nice undulated few miles.
Sweeping path up to Tarrenhendre
Bogs and hags (and a surprisingly clean spaniel) at the top of Tarrenhendre
Thanks for looking at these pictures - not the most exciting but I hope it helps someone else tackle these unfrequented pair!
