Finding hope in Snowdonia

On Friday, 15 September 2017, Hope4Cycling CCC travelled to the Peter Lowarth Memorial Hut, Garth Farm, Capel Curig to prepare for a 22-mile bike ride around Snowdonia National Park. 

On Saturday morning, twelve cyclists woke up bright and early and had a hearty breakfast to fuel up for the ride ahead. As soon as they were ready, the group set off in the direction of Llanwrst. They were led by Cycling Development Officer Chris Alston from Cycling UK, taking in the mountainous views of Moel Siabod and the Snowdon Horseshoe en route. 

Upon arrival in Llanwrst, the group stopped for coffee and cake before heading back to the quaint village of Betws y Coed along the back roads through the Gwyder Forest where they had a well-deserved lunch break and beer.

The ride went really well and it was a great opportunity for the Wirral based group to experience cycling in more challenging, yet picturesque terrain.

I feel so proud to have cycled that distance and all of the hills. It was great to share the experience with the great friends I have met since riding with Hope4Cycling.

Hilary Horne

H4C’s Hilary Horne said: ‘This is only my seventh time on my bike since returning to cycling after many years without a bike. I feel so proud to have cycled that distance and all of the hills. It was great to share the experience with the great friends I have met since riding with Hope4Cycling. I hope we can come back again soon.’

Hilary's husband Stan, pictured above with Hilary, was nominated for the Cycling UK Volunteer Awards by Chris for all the time and effort he puts into Hope4Cycling Community Cycle Club. 

Hilary herself completed the 15 mile route on the Wirral Celebration Ride during the Women’s Festival, having only purchased her bike a few weeks before from the Eastham Centre Community Cycle Hub, funded by BBR grant money. Now she has progressed to 22 mile rides in hilly terrain across Snowdonia!

Are you interested in cycling around Wales? Take a look at our County Guide for Gwynedd, Anglesey and Snowdonia for routes, events, clubs and advice.