Cadair Idris

It was an extremely early start for the intrepid duo as the headed north on the A470 towards Gwynedd and the 'Chair of Idris' protruding into the low cloud at 893 mtrs.



The chosen route, the Pony Path, begins in the north from either Dolgellau or the Mawddach estuary, is the easiest but the longest of the main trails. Its length from the mountain's base is 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) with a 600 metres (2,000 ft) climb.



The Idris in question is usually taken to be a giant from Welsh mythology who was said to have used the mountain as an enormous armchair to gaze at the stars. Alternatively, it may refer to Idris ap Gwyddno (or Gweiddno), a 7th-century Meirionnydd prince who won a battle against the Irish on the mountain.



Lord Twynyrodyn experienced periodic breathing difficulties on the upward route that seemed to evaporate when chatting to some pretty Swiss girls. The cloud cover also cleared as the summit was conquered.



There was a tricky little scramble for the duo over the loose scree to reach the summit.



Refreshments were taken at a local hostilry at the base of the mountain before the departure for home.