- Car Park Location: (what3words) ///earl.amplified.belts
- Parking: Free Parking but small amount of spaces
- Length of walk: 6.8 km or 4.2 Miles
- Time Taken: 2 Hours
- Accessibility: Some areas are narrow and steep however its mainly open fields, paths or roads with little to no path.
- Difficulty: Easy circular route with a little challenge
- Route: All Trails
For our latest adventure, we found ourselves drawn to the picturesque surroundings of Capel Curig, a name derived from the charming St. Julitta's Church nestled alongside the river bridge on the Llanberis road. The decision to explore this area came about spontaneously, settled upon the night before. My go-to for discovering new walks is the AllTrails app; it's user-friendly interface and detailed reviews are so helpful when picking a new place to go.
As the weather was around 14 Degrees Celsius we opted for comfy walking boots and light jackets for ourselves. We also made sure we packed our waterproofs as you can't predict Welsh Weather but luckily we didn't need them!
For Oggy, he wore his Woof and Snout* collar which is completely spaniel proof and super easy to clean. In terms of safety this walk featured roads without paths so we opted for his Halti head collar to have more control as it wasnt a safe place to train. We also put him in a high vis vest just in case he strayed from the path as then we would still be able to see him as well as others doing the route too.
Safety was paramount, particularly concerning the presence of livestock. With sheep often grazing nearby, Oggy remained leashed throughout these sections mainly on a flexi-lead (responsibly), ensuring both his safety and that of the local animals. Despite the potential challenges, our well-preparedness and Oggy's reliable gear ensured a safe and enjoyable outing in Capel Curig.
The route we embarked on from Capel Curig unfolded like a storybook adventure, weaving through picturesque landscapes and offering a delightful mix of terrain. Starting off on a sturdy path bordering the valley's edge, we were treated to scenic views of open fields and majestic mountains standing tall in the distance. As we descended towards Pont Cyfyng, the sounds of the Afon Llugwy greeted us, accompanied by the sight of small but mighty waterfalls. The trail meandered alongside the river, leading us through the Braich Bryn-engan woodland, where there are plenty of wildflowers to see.
Despite the allure of the scenery, what struck us most was the serenity of the route. Even on a bank holiday Monday, we encountered surprisingly few fellow adventurers along the way, allowing us to fully soak in all the sights and sounds. Interestingly, we learned that this very area served as a training ground for the first team that conquered Everest.
As for refreshments along the route, while there weren't any dog-friendly establishments directly on the trail, venturing slightly off-course promised the opportunity to discover some dog-friendly places for a well-deserved pit stop. We recommend packing some snacks and water for you and your pup if you prefer staying on track!
Now, let's talk about Oggy and his water-seeking antics! It's become a running joke that wherever we go, he manages to sniff out a puddle or stream within minutes. On this particular adventure, he wasted no time in finding the perfect spot for a paddle that would have also made for an ideal picnic spot halfway through our hike.
When it comes to training and activities, Oggy is a natural explorer, but we've been working on improving his recall skills, especially in distracting environments. We've found that incorporating enrichment-based activities during our walks, like hide-and-seek with treats not only strengthens our bond but also keeps him mentally stimulated. Thankfully, the route provided plenty of off-lead opportunities!
In conclusion, the walk at Capel Curig exceeded all expectations, offering a perfect blend of tranquillity and adventure. It was one of the most enjoyable outings I've had in a while, with just enough challenge to keep things interesting. Without a doubt, I would love to revisit this route, perhaps with a picnic next time to fully savour the experience. Reflecting on our journey, one thing we'd do differently is remember to bring enough water for ourselves—though sharing Oggy's supply did make for a humorous moment along the way. I wholeheartedly recommend this dog-friendly hike to anyone seeking a memorable outdoor adventure.
I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share these adventures with Oggy. His boundless enthusiasm makes each outing all the more special. As we look forward to our next walk, I can't help but feel excited about what the future holds. Stay tuned for our next adventure—a forest-based exploration that promises even more excitement!
Lots of love,
Libby and Oggy
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