An Easter Adventure to Anglesey
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PLEASE NOTE: Arrival time is from 16:30 (just saying this in case of any summer time difference confusion)
Easter in Wales is back and this time, we're going off shore (only just) to the beautiful Isle of Anglesey, or Ynys Mon in Welsh (well we are actually on Holy Island off the west of Anglesey to be precise...but anyways). With its name steeped in Old Norse history, the island was the subject of numerous invasions over the centuries, from the Viking Raiders to the Norman Raids of the ancient county of Gwynedd to which Anglesey was once a part. The Roman Empire also had an interest in the island, giving it the name Mona from the latin language, interestingly the name Mona remains with the island, in the form of a hamlet near the centre - RAF Mona is also present there, acting as a relief landing field to RAF Valley - home of the UK Fast Jet Training School. Keep your eyes peeled (you wont need to pin your ears back to hear them) and you might see some Hawks and other fastjet aircraft passing near or overhead.
This weekend, taking advantage of the bank holidays either side means we can pack in some great activities. Fancy some coasteering, some mountain biking, sea kayaking or maybe a short drive over to Snowdonia which dominates the skyline when looking back from the island. We have so many possibilities.
Aside from all of that, we have plenty of lovely food to get on the cooker and no doubt some games in the hostel to keep everyone laughing from dusk til dawn and beyond.
So come on, make a long weekend in beautiful North Wales with great rail links from almost any part of the country via Chester, you can get here very easily.
What will we be doing?
On arrival on Friday, we will get settled in and mingle, make new friends or reminisce with friends of old. We will have a briefing once most people have arrived, after the buffet dinner where the plan for the weekend will be detailed.
The plans for the weekend are to offer of local day walks including some beach and forest walks on Anglesey itself but also some trips by car to nearby Snowdonia for the mountain goats amongst us.
In addition, we have climbing, sea-level traversing and kayaking events available over the weekend. See their event pages here:
Sea level traverse: https://www.outdoorlads.com/events/easter-anglesey-sea-level-traverse-180331
Kayaking: https://www.outdoorlads.com/events/easter-anglesey-kayaking-180331
Outdoor Climbing: https://www.outdoorlads.com/events/easter-anglesey-outdoor-climbing-day-180401
that will be available at extra cost, keep your eyes peeled for these.
We also hope to offer some road or mountain bike events, so if you are a leader in this field, let one of us know, so we can get some plans together.
But of course, if you just fancy taking a wander to the nearby beach for a swim - it WILL be cold - but hey enjoy yourself. Or if you fancy making your own plans, thats fine too but dont be afraid to make suggestions to the event leader, we welcome ideas, suggestions etc.
What to bring
In addition to the walking kit, you will of course need your overnight stuff, so toiletries, towel, change of clothes and an essential piece of kit is an extra pillow as from experience, most hostel pillows are rubbish!
Boots: Hiking boots are arguably the most essential piece of kit when hiking just about anywhere. Walker’s should make sure that their boots are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support. Boots should also be in good condition.
Socks: Walking socks are often overshadowed by those new to hiking, with many novices failing to invest in proper socks. Good walking socks are essential in regards to keeping the feet dry, and in turn stopping the development of blisters. Sports socks and other socks not designed for walking will often become waterlogged, or damaged which will in turn blister feet.
Gators: Gators attach to the bottom of walking boots and extend to just under the knee. They provide waterproofing for the bottom half of the leg, and are essential in keeping the feet dry.
Walking Trousers: Walking trousers should be of a windproof design and made of a rip stop material, that will stand up to walking through ferns and undergrowth. They should also ideally be water resistant, or at least not gain weight, and lose their insulation properties when wet. Jeans are therefore to be avoided, as they are heavy when wet and provide no protection from the elements.
Waterproof Trousers: Waterproof trousers are essential in keeping the legs dry, as water resistant trousers will not keep out any significant rainfall. Walker’s should look for waterproof trousers that are breathable, in order to avoid being soaked with sweat.
Base Layer: A breathable base layer should be chosen in order to let sweat escape from the body. This should ideally consist of a breathable synthetic, specially designed fabric, though a cotton T-Shirt is sufficient.
Mid Layer: A Mid Layer goes on top of the base layer and should consist of a 100 weight micro fleece, or a rugby typed thick shirt. The layering system is important as it allows walkers to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature.
Outer Layer: The outer layer should consist of a windproof jacket or a thick fleece. This is the final layer and walkers should ensure that this layer provides ample warmth.
Waterproof Jacket: A good waterproof jacket is one of the most important pieces of kit you will require when hiking. Walkers should look for a jacket that is both waterproof and breathable in order for them to be protected from sweat. Materials such as Gore-tex are often the best choices.
Hat: As most heat is lost through the head a good hat is essential. The best hats are those of a fleece design, with wool also being acceptable.
Gloves: Gloves are essential in the colder months as walkers will require the usage of their fingers for various activities such as map reading. Windproof or better still waterproof gloves are the best choice.
Rucksack: A good Rucksack that is comfortable to wear is essential, and required to carry both food and equipment. Day sacks should have a capacity of around 30 litres with equipment being placed in water proof bags inside.
Emergency Equipment: A number of items should be taken in case problems occur whilst walking in the hills. Emergency equipment becomes of greater importance the further from civilisation walkers are. Equipment should include spare food stuffs of high energy, a survival bag, a whistle, a medical kit, a torch and something to make fire, either storm proof matches or a firelighter.
Food & Water: At least two litres of water should be brought for each day hiking, with more being taken if cooking is required. Enough food for the duration of a walk should also be taken. Food should be of the high energy variety, with hot food being able to be eaten raw if necessary.
Map & Compass: A map of the area being walked in is essential as well as a compass. The map should be in a waterproof bag or be of a waterproof design.
Mobile Phone: A mobile phone should also be brought and kept in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies.
Food & drink
GOOD FRIDAY DINNER - We will do the famous OutdoorLads Buffet, so bring enough food for one person and when we bring it all together we will have a veritable feast for everyone to enjoy. Try making something at home or baking something rather than throwing the quiche and pizza in from the supermarket ;) Although, no pressure of course.
SATURDAY BREAKFAST - We will have a selection of fruit, cereals, yoghurt and toast.
SATURDAY DINNER - We will prepare a homemade 3 course dinner for your delight. Dietary alternatives will be provided.
EASTER SUNDAY BREAKFAST - We will have a selection of fruit, cereals, yoghurt and toast.
EASTER SUNDAY DINNER - As is tradition, we will have a full roast dinner for Easter Sunday with all of the trimmings. Dietary alternatives will be provided.
EASTER MONDAY BREAKFAST - We will have a selection of fruit, cereals, yoghurt and toast.
LUNCHES - Please ensure you have lunches with you for the weekend, there are shops nearby in Holyhead.
DRINKS - You will need your own libations for the weekend, alcoholic or otherwise. Mine's a G&T....as is Andrew's....just in case you were wondering ;-)