Madog Walks Group

We've learned a lot about how to deal with obstacles on our dog walks. We do try to travel equipped to cope with all sorts of challenges, and have learned all srots of useful strategies. One of the commonest obstacles we encounter is the ladder stile . JJ the labrador struggles over a typical ladder stile at Llanwrst These have proved to be quite a barrier to greyhounds , especially. Getting a greyhound over a ladder stile can be a bit like pushing a giraffe through a cat-flap. The legs go everywhere, and you're instantly aware that greyhounds are only built for speed on the flat, interspersed with dozing on sofas. We were delighted when Archie the greyhound took up the stile challenge, and mastered it! Thrilled with this success, Archie himself has collaborated with his human colleagues to produce this charming tongue-in-cheek publication illustrating his amusing take on the whole business of getting over stiles. It's available to  buy on Amazon , with all prof...

4 mile hike skirting across the slopes of the Moelwyns, using a very convenient old tramway bed. The start point from the road is already quite high, which makes the onward ascent towards Moelwyn Mawr much easier. Old tramway Parking is roadside on the gated minor road between Tan-y-Bwlch and Croesor , uphill from the entrance to Penrallt (farm). Parking at roadside summit of minor road                                        What to bring Wear stout footwear, and expect it to be boggy in places. Bring a packed lunch, which we can eat while resting high up on the tramway, whilst admiring the sweeping view down to Croesor. Moelwyn Bach Head of the incline Obstacles: There is only a one low stile, high up on Moelwyn Mawr and about half way round the route. Contemplating the stile on Moelwyn Mawr The ascent is a long steady slo...

Short and initially steep walk (of only 2 miles) up through woodland to reach the restored Cwm Cypwrth copper mine. Inspecting the old copper-mining equipment The riverside pool is a great place for paddling and picnicing (so maybe arrive early with a picnic ?!!!) Riverside parking place, excellent for a picnic and a paddle Parking place (and starting point for walk) is here: https://goo.gl/maps/i9hsg8FSQGJ2 The first 200 yards are across a sheep pasture - (so dogs on leads!). There are two substantial post-and rail stiles, (which may need a bit of dog-lifting assistance for the less agile!), but no other sgnificant obstacles. One of the two stiles encountered en route The short ascent through the woodland is by a reasonably steep stony path, though there are several points for a rest on the way up. At one point the route currently diverts around a fallen tree. There is a good viewpoint for a proper rest after the second stile, so time to take a break and a...

A moderate 4.5 mile walk up from Llaneltyd village to the Llyn Tan-y-graig reservoir, then via the old mine tramways along the New Precipice Walk . (Much safer than it sounds! Stunning views of the Mawddach Estuary.)  Return to Llaneltyd via the lower woodland paths. Mawddach Estuary panorama The "Precipice" is a flat track cut into the valley side, on the slopes of Foel Ispri, and makes use of an old tramway which was built to serve the workings of the long-abandoned Voel goldmine. There are stunning views of the Mawddach estuary as far as the Barmouth viaduct, and across to Dolgellau and the Arans in the other direction. Directions From Dolgellau and the south : A470 just north of Dolgellau; turn right onto minor road signposted Cymer Abbey. Follow Cymer Abbey signs but stop short and park near No Through Road down to the  old Llaneltyd Bridge From Trawsfynydd and the north : A470 100 yards BEFORE roundabout with A496 north of Dolgellau...

Circular walk of about 4 miles, firstly along the wooded edge of Llyn Trawsfynydd, then gently ascending along farmland tracks to reach the Roman remains at Tomen-y-Mur.  Return through sheep pastures and a little woodland, to cross the A470 again and return to the power station/cafe entrance. Site of the Roman Amphitheatre Start at the cafe near the Trawsfynydd Power Station entrance road. No dogs allowed inside cafe, but there are picnic tables outside, beside the lake. Really nice cafe. Clean toilets. Parking Free parking at  Trawsfynydd Lake Activity Centre , either by the cafe (to the left), or off the Power Station approach (to the right). Obstacles Easy level walking beside lake for first half. Gentle sloping track to the ruins. LIkely to encounter some livestock on the section of the walk around the area of the Roman remains, and in some of the fields on the return. Several kissing gates and field gates. One post & rail stile. Mostly on firm tracks...