Sometimes all the weather factors align and we have the perfect day. Ours was such a day – the cloud effects were amazing and we were still surrounded by low cloud when we reached the peak with no wind to chase us down again.
We ascended Llandudno Ravine and started the long trek towards Grootkop, stopping for tea before we reached the shade on the south side. Yellowood traverse was followed to take us around to the Atlantic side, passing groups of Yellowwood trees hugging the narrow ledge.
Once on the northern side we linked up with the B route that took us up through the rock bands to the peak. The lack of wind encouraged us to break for lunch at 11:30 and soak up the 360 degree views around us. After feasting our eyes we headed down the standard route to complete the circle back to the start on the southern side.
By now the warmth of the day had set in as we made our way back towards Llandudno Ravine via the Llandudno Buttress B route variation. We eventually reached the cars at 2:45pm. Our original party of 16, who had made the list, was down to 11 after 2 cancellations and 3 being unwell.
photos by Don Jepson
