We had three options: continue, change the route or go back – we chose to keep to the original plan! We were at the top of the nek above Lekkerwater Gully and the wind was pumping, ruling out going down to the start of Lekkerwater Traverse. We could see that the start to Pimple Traverse above was relatively wind free and was the better option considering the gale force winds that we had encountered so far.
Once around the corner we were in the lee of the wind and conditions improved substantially. The line of the traverse opened up stunning views views towards Lions Head and beyond with the South Easter cloud pouring over the Apostle buttresses. After negotiating some exposed parts of the traverse and being aware of the dramatic rock walls above us, we reached a wide open slope that enabled us to have a well deserved tea break.
Around the corner from our tea spot we encountered the final rock challenge – a climb onto the rock face above followed by a delicate traverse to avoid a protruding elbow of rock. This got the adrenalin flowing and provided some good photo opportunities!
The ledge continued until we reached the wide open grassy slope of Victoria Ravine. The cloud at the top looked ominous, but this was our chosen way to our descent route. The wind hit us as expected on top but by now we had encountered sufficient challenges not to be deterred!
After enjoying the remoteness of the mist for about 40 minutes we reached the top of Llandudno Ravine. I had planned to descend via Llandudno Buttress but the strong winds would have made this unsafe. The 15 of us were back at the cars by 1pm, revelling in the adventure we had experienced.
Photos by Don Jepson
