adventurous ewe

We Want Snow

2012-02-08T13:46:00.001-08:00

2012 has so far been a whole lotta fun and may it continue.
Our fist Toubkal climb of 2012 was a blast in many ways, we got blasted off the summit ridge with high winds and then burn to a crisp when the sun showed its face. We still managed to celebrate Keiths birthday with another awesome Tagine cooked by our super dooper Moroccan crew.
Our last trip saw all 14 clients summit and the result was Imlil seeing it's first small mountain of empty beer cans, once we all made it back to our guest house for cold beers on the balcony admiring the summit of Toubkal and a job well done.
Im back up Toubkal in two days with an all female team which should be fun and I hope we can show all the macho french climbers how its done.

Winter Toubkal

2011-12-24T00:04:00.001-08:00

I'm currently sat in Tanzania after what as an epic Kilimanjaro climb, Ive never seen so much snow on the summit, although it's great to be out here in Tanzania over the Christmas and New Year period I can't but help get excited about the New Year, with 2012 is nearly upon us, which means our Winter Toubkal Treks are about to kick off, There's already plenty of snow in the High Atlas so it's promising to be another awesome winter in Morocco, if your looking for a cheap winter getaway with sun and snow and experience the buzz of Marrakech, I would certainly looking to heading to Morooco.

We will based in Marrakech for the first half of 2012, running trips into the High Atlas and the Sahara, we hope to be adding some great cycling trips to the calender for 2012 so watch this space.

As I've said before I would like to thank everyone who's been part of Adventurous Ewe in 2011 and I hope to see you all again in 2012.

Have a great Christams and New Year,
Don't forget to ask Santa for those Crampons and Ice Axe.
Hope to see you out in Morocco.

Jim

2012 & Beyond

2011-11-11T11:23:00.000-08:00

Hello one and all

It's been so manic around here lately, which is why I've had no time to update our blog.

Firstly we would like to thank everyone for supporting Adventurous Ewe, its been an incredible year so far.

We've had trips going out to Morocco every month since July and the feedback has been incredible, our 3 peaks challenges have been a blast and there's been a huge amount of money raised for various charities along the way.

Winter Toubkal trips are looking popular and we have confirmed dates for January and February.

Thanks and see you out and about.

Jim

Toubkal Summer Trek

2011-08-02T11:36:00.000-07:00

I've not had much time of late to update the blog. We've been really busy with our National 3 Peaks Challenge and our Summer Toubkal Treks.
May bank holiday bought an exciting Toubkal trek, what was meant to be a summer trek turned out more like a winter ascent.

Day 1 we encountered strong winds which made the day tough going, then just before arriving at camp we had the unexpected challenge of crossing a swollen river due to heavy snow fall only a week earlier, with the rivers so high we had to wait until morning to find out if we could continue with our route over Tizi n Taddate pass.Thankfully by morning water levels had dropped and we were able to continue with our chosen route, today also had it own difficulties with crampons required in order for safe passage over Tizi n Taddate pass, once over the pass we only had two more small river crossings to make before arriving at camp so some well earned mint tea and cake, overnight conditions worsened with high winds which the High Atlas are notorious. We woke early praying for good weather and all was looking good.

After a good breakfast we made for Toubkal summit again in crampons, which is not normal weather conditions for May, we slowly made our way up the South Cwm nearing the summit ridge fighting strong winds which at time's blew us off our feet, we managed to reach 3900mt and then decided to return to camp and leave the summit for another day.After a good lunch it was time to load up the donkey's and make our back down to Imlil for a hot shower and a well earned breakfast.
The following two days were spent exploring the souks of Marrakech and enjoying Moroccan cuisine.
I'm now counting the days until we return to Morocco in September.

London - Paris

2011-06-06T15:22:00.000-07:00

Words can't explain this trip.
What a start line and even more impressive finish line and an incredible group.
Adventurous Ewe & The U Foundation have just completed the London to Paris in Style.
Amazing weather conditions, delicious food, good cold beer and then there was our route stopping off in Local village halls for lunch amazing and evening meals, I would say the best route into Paris from London by far and that was just the hospitality.

All the Adventurous Ewe Crew worked flat out to make it such a great trip.

Can't wait for next year.

Summer 2011

2011-04-30T06:37:00.000-07:00

The Summer season is nearly upon us and it's looking very busy with lots of teams signing up for our National Three Peaks Challenge, All teams will be hoping to climb Ben Nevis, Scafell & Snowdon in 24hrs which is tough challenge but great fun and a fantastic way to raise money for your favourite charity. Our first Three Peaks kicks of on 3rd June.

Snowdonia is popular as ever a great weekend getaway for an endless number of activities from exploring the quieter corners of Snowdonia to adrenaline pumping white water raftin g.

If your looking for a tough challenge our Welsh 15 Peaks 24hr Challenge is the challenge this little know challenge is alot tougher than the National Three Peaks Challenge.

Don't forget to check out our Gorge Walking trips based in the awesome Brecon Beacons Nat Pk, It's a day out you won't forget in a hurry.

Toubkal and the Moroccan High Atlas continues to provide an excellent high altitude trek a fantastic cultural experience passing there local berber villages.

Were also running a number of charity and bespoke challenges through out the year.

So there it is our program for 2011 plenty to go at some heart pumping and challenging trips to wet your appetite for the coming summer.

Have fun and hope to see you soon.

Under Starters Orders

2011-04-10T03:10:00.000-07:00

Adventurous Ewe set off this morning providing support for Katie Whyte as starts her 7 Marathons in 7 Days on 7 Islands. last report was they have just arrived in Scotland and will start the first run tomorrow morning. You can follow how Katie is getting on facebook. http://http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/followkatie

Clients Blogs

2011-03-21T05:08:00.000-07:00

It's all go here at Adv Ewe.
So here's some of our clients blogs who will be taking on huge challenges in 2011 and raising money for charity.

Katie will be attempting a huge challenge in April by running 7 Marathons 7 Islands 7 Days for Breast Cancer Care and Cystic Fibrosis Trust. http://http//7islands7days7marathons.blogspot.com/

Sam is 14 years old and will be taking on the 3 peaks challenge which young Sam hopes to complete in under 24hrs. Sam is raising money for Acorn's Children's Hospice.
http://http//www.3peakschallenge2011.blogspot.com/

Check out there blogs and follow there amazing Challenge.

High Atlas Trekking

2011-02-26T14:10:00.000-08:00

Toubkal 2011

2011-02-16T15:43:00.000-08:00

Were having a great winter over here in Morocco.

The weather has been fairly mild until the last week, we had a big dumping of snow last week which made it hard work getting to the summits, but we made it and it was worth all the hard work the views from Toubkal summit were just awsome.

The snowline is now at 2300mt so were now using porters to get all our kit into the refuge and the mules get a time out.

I'm in Marrakech at the momment prepareing for our next trek in 3 days time. fingers crossed the snow pack should have hardened a little by then.

There's a festival going on in Marrakech at the momment so the evenings are packed with all sorts of antics going on.

The refuge on Toubkal has been really busy with skiing groups and next week is full so its going to fun in there at least it will be warm in the refuge.

Were currently looking into adding white water rafting to our Morocco program. so once you've climbed North Africa's highest mountain you can then raft the white water in North Africa so watch this space.

Right time to get on with things.

Hydro Therapy

2011-02-01T07:29:00.000-08:00

Good news for all those looking for big adventure and the love of water.

Our Gorge Walking Trips in South Wales are filling up fast this year and with good reason as the Mellte and Sychrydd Gorges offer some of the best Gorge Walking/Scrambling in the U.K.

With massive jumps for those who feel need for heart pumping adrenaline which are of course optional.

For those looking to try and stay above the water but we cant promise, we will soon be offering White Water Rafting in North Wales on the Treweryn River.

The Treweryn is classic grade 3/4 river with some great adrenaline pumping rapids.

All these activivites are great team building events and perfect for Stag and Hen Weekends.

It´s also possible to combine any of these activities with Paintballing, Quad Biking and High Ropes Course´s.

Hope to see you on the water soon.

Toubkal

2011-01-22T13:54:00.000-08:00

I've not had much time to update the blog since returning from Morocco.

Here's a quick update.

Our January Toubkal Winter Climb was superb trip, We had perfect conditions for the trek, it felt like spring time in the Atlas and the snow was in great nic for summiting Toubkal.

After a night in Marrkech, we headed off early to the village of Imlil where we started our trek.

The snowline was 2800mt which made things alot easier to get our supplies to the refuge.

Our first day in the Mizane Valley was an acclimatisation day while learning winter skills, everyone got into glasading down the valley which continued to be the theme for week.

The following day we summited Toubkal and another stunning day with blue skies, again more glasading down into the refuge in time for more mint tea and cake.

The following two days were spent exploring the High Atlas and enjoying the winter sun.

Then finally back down to Marrakech and a cold beer !

Toubkal Jan 2011

2011-01-16T13:12:00.000-08:00

Jebel Toubkal

2011-01-02T08:40:00.000-08:00

I'm now in Marrakech putting the final bits in place organising the porters and mules for our trek in the High Atlas starting on the 3rd Jan.

Some of the group have arrived and are enjoying the buzz around Marrakech, with the rest of the group arriving on the 3rd Jan.

The weather is looking good with freeze thaw conditions and clear skies, the snow level is at 2900mts so our trek into the refuge should be alot easier to get all our kit into our base.

Fingers crossed we should knock off a couple of 4000mt summits this week.

Happy Christmas, Bring On 2011

2010-12-29T10:58:00.000-08:00

It's been a bit of a chilli December, We ran a Gorge Walking trip during the cold period, Everyone had more layers than an onion, we managed to keep nice and warm with an adrenaline pumping two hour gorge session everyone managed to do the massive 8m jump and finished off with a few beers.

Were now busy packing all our kit for our Winter Toubkal season and it's promising to be a corker with plenty of snow in the High Atlas, January is now fully booked and we have a few remaining places for our February Trips.

2011 is looking good for our Welsh 15 Peaks trips, it's the best and only way to see the best of Snowdonia, spread over 3 days we climb all the 3000er's.

Right I best go and continue packing as I fly out to Morocco on 1st Jan the perfect way to see in the New Year.

Hope you had a great Christmas and santa bought you all you asked for, See you on the hill in 2011.

All The Best The Adventurous Ewe Team.

Morocco

2010-11-19T04:26:00.000-08:00

I've just returned from a desert trip in Morocco, it's a magical place the Sahara with breath taking sunet & sunrises and the landscape changes so much.

We started our trek from the small village of Mhamid and then trekked into the Sahara with our trusty camels in tow. We trekkked as far south as possible in Morocco which bought us very close to the Algerian border, the sand dunes in this area are just incredible, we just had to climb them for sunrise, it took us about 45mins to top out on our Everest of sand dunes where we had hot tea and breakfast.

We left the Sahara after 6 Days trekking, it's was a bit of a shock going from the peace and quiet of the Sahara then jumping on the Tube through london, I know where I would rather be.

I'm now out in Costa Rica for a jungle trek so it's going to be a very wet week a million miles away from the Sahara.

Check out our new Gorge Scrambling Video.

Gorge Walking

2010-11-17T13:21:00.000-08:00

Kili season comes to an end.

2010-10-25T10:49:00.000-07:00

Jambo

Well what a season it's been on Kili, the short rain are just about here and we had our first covering of snow on the mountain last week.

They've been an incredible 3 trips with an average 90% of the groups summiting which is a huge success.
I now have a few weeks to catch up on the boring office work before heading back to Morocco.
Our Winter Toubkal trips are a popular hit this year and there filling up fast.

Toubkal offers the only winter mountaineering in the African continent with stunning views over the Sahara Desert from the summit, plus the very warm hearted Berber people of the High Atlas it's going to be a great winter.

Stu is busy with our Gorge Walking program even if winter is upon us.
Make sure you check it out next spring/summer, saying that we even have bookings in December.

In the mean time i'm going to continue enjoying the warm weather in Tanzania.

Have Fun

Jimbo

Kilimanjaro & Mt Toubkal

2010-10-04T03:44:00.000-07:00

Kili Time

I'm currently in Tanzania preparing for my second Kilimanjaro climb in 3 weeks, then I have another 2 climbs before the end of October, Stu will also be joining me on the second climb, it will be his first ascent on Kili and he's very excitied.

All our climbs are on the Machame Route which can be done over 6 or 7 days.

The only thing I would say is Kilimanjaro is getting very busy these days i've never seen so many people on the Mountain.

I've spent the last week with friends helping out on a project building a free medical centre and orphange mainly for the local Massai but it's free to anyone who comes, The kids in the Orphanage are amazing there's a family of 4 children here at the momment who lost there parents to HIV but they seem so upbeat it's very sad to hear but great to see them so happy and being looked after so well, We will be running an event next summer to raise money for the charity so I will keep you posted.

Toubkal

Our winter Toubkal climbs are looking very busy this year with our January date now having a double departure.

Climbing Toubkal in the winter is a great mountaineering experience with very few people on the mountain, you don't need to be a roughty toughty mountaineer to climb during the winter months just warm clothes and a great sense of Adventure.

So keep that Adventurous spirit alive and see you on the mountian.

Kili Time

2010-09-06T13:32:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year once again that I pack my kit and head for the dizzy heights of Kilimanjaro.

We ended our summer season with a Welsh 15 Peaks and our final 3 Peaks last weekend, its was a great final 3 peaks with our best time yet 24.20hrs, it was a great effort plus a great amount of money was raised for St Davids Hospice.

I'm doing four Kilimanjaro climbs over a 6 week period so it's going to be tough, i'm looking forward to catching up with all the boys in Tanzania plus I have 8 days down time which will give me time to catch up with old friends and maybe go on a bit of a recce for future trips.
Our Jan 3rd Toubkal trip is nearly full only 2 places left, so were putting on another date in early feb.

Best get back to the packing my kit.

NEVER LET AN ADVENTURE PASS YOU BY.

Jim

Gorge Scrambling/Walking

2010-08-19T14:28:00.000-07:00

We've been pretty busy round here at Adventurous Ewe.

Between running Three Peaks Challenges and the Welsh 15 Peaks it's been alot of fun.

But we now have a new activity added to our website for all you adrenaline seekers, Were proud to say we are now running Gorge Scrambling/Walking Sessions.

Were starting off in South Wales in the Mellte & Sychrydd Gorges these are some of the best gorge gorge's in U.K. with a huge 11m jump only for the brave.

We will be starting Gorge Walking in North Wales early next year and we promise it's going to be a heart pumping gorge.

Any how onto other things we only have one 15 Peaks left for this year and our final Three Peaks is the first week of September.

Toubkal is filling up fast and our 3rd January trip is now nearly fully booked.

I'm heading off to climb Kilimanjaro again this Autumn in fact I'm doing four Ascent's, which I can't wait for, you just can't beat standing on the roof of Africa.

Stu who has now joined the Ewe, will be running the Gorge Walking and has been working down there in the gorge since 2007(Gollum). So your in good hands, it's an awesome day out and one which will have you talking about it for weeks. Stu will also be running a Promo day for Adventurous Ewe so get in touch and you could get yourself a very cheap heart pumping day out.

Central America to Fort William

2010-07-20T09:05:00.000-07:00

July has just been crazy, so much i've been very slack on the blog page, and this is going to be a short update, as i'm just about to head to France on a London to Paris Bike Ride.

We have done a jungle trek in Central America, Three Peaks Challenge plus we even fitted in a Welsh 15 Peaks.

The Jungle trek was in Costa Rica, I was out there looking into a new trekking route, It was so new there were no paths through the Jungle so we spent 2.5 days hacking our way through the rain forest with an unimaginable number of river crossing.
It rained so hard water was running down into my jacket and out through the arms.

Talking of rain we so much rain on last weekends 3 Peaks it just like being back in the Jungle during rainy season.
Everyone battled on and completed the challenge in 23.5hrs.

We did manage to do the 15 peaks in sunshine though who ever said it rains in Wales.

Well thats a very quick update got a ferry to catch.

Summer is here

2010-06-24T15:29:00.000-07:00

Everyone completed the 15 peak Challenge last weekend in fantastic style, We had great weather and I think everyone was a little sun burnt by the end of the weekend.

Some members of the group were training for either Everest Base Camp, Kilimanjaro or Mont Blanc.

I'm currently in Fort William starting the 3 Peaks tomorrow.

We also have a group sleeping on the summit of Snowdon tonight as their starting the Welsh 15 Peaks Challenge in 24hrs at 05.00am

It's going to be a fun weekend.

Toubkal

2010-06-03T15:11:00.000-07:00

Just returned from a great trip up Toubkal.
Everyone summited and the conditions were great.

There's still plenty of snow in the High Atlas plus with all the spring flowers and the water falls in full flow the scenery was just stunning.
We trekked for 3 days in total which allowed us enough time to acclimatise.
It was along last day summiting then going back down to Imlil for a few beers and a hot shower, but the mountains were stunning plus being on a high from summiting made it easier.

We had a few hours in Marrakech to do some last minute shopping in the souks enjoy a fresh orange juice in the Jemaa El Fna before boarding our flights home.

I stayed on in Morocco to recce Essaouira on the coast which was stunning and the perfet way to chill out after the Toubkal climb.
Were now gonig to be adding Essaouria as an optional extenstion to all our future Morocco Trips. Back in Snowdonia tomorow with a group of four doing the Snowdon Horseshoe, it's going to be a hot day with super views all day.

15 Peaks

2010-05-12T14:25:00.000-07:00

Day 1

Snow in May what ever next.

I'm out with Carl & Dave doing the 15 Peaks over 3 days.

3 Peaks Challenge

2010-05-10T12:00:00.000-07:00

We've just run our first 3 peaks of the season had the best weather you could wish for.

Once we had loaded up our supplies we headed off from Snowdonia for the long drive to Fort William stopping off in Glen Coe to enjoy the stunning Scottish Highlands and dinner. With an early 05.00am start on Ben Nevis we made the long climb up the highest mountain in the U.K. The last 200mts of the climb was snow covered and with clear blue skies the views over the highlands was breath taking.

Once on the Summit we had an extra reward as Glenfiddich Whiskey were giving out free samples along with a bagpipe player which was awesome.

After a short break on the summit it was time to return to Glen Nevis jump on our bus and head for Scafell in the Lake District.
We would be climbing Scafell in the dark, were navigation can be tough at times.

We made good time up Scafell, No Whiskey this time just a cold northerly wind to greet us, So a quick photo shoot and down once again to our bus.
Once on the bus everyone was flat out asleep in no time, I must admit our little mobile home was beginning for smell a little fresh.

We arrived at Snowdon at first light feeling pretty tired with very little sleep and aching bones we sorted our kit and started are final summit.

Some of the team wer e in poor shape due to bad knees and had to miss out the final summit.

It was a little strange to be without our full team on our final climb.

We made Snowdon summit in good time and our total time for the 3 peaks was 28.5hrs.

After a celebration hot chocolate on the summit we slowly made our way down the Miners track enjoying the heat of the sun and stunning views of the Snowdon Masiff.

We meet up with the rest of team back at the Vagabond Hostel, then after a hot shower went out for a little celebration drink.

It was incredible weekend and everyone pushed themselves to the limit.

We had the most amazing conditions and it was a great pleasure to do such a tough challenge with such a determined group of people.

15 Peaks (knees up)

2010-05-04T13:26:00.000-07:00

May Bank Holiday was our first 15 peaks of the season and thankfully we had fairly good weather through out the odd hail storm but generally clear skies and great views.

Day 1 - We started our challenge from the Northern end of the Carneddau after a 2hr climb we reached the summit of our first Welsh 3000'er. Not bad timing as I think there were a few hangovers in the team.
We had a mixed day of sunshine & hail a bit strange in May really, but we also had some great views over Snowdonia and could even see the Irish coast line at times.

Sue & Steve were really struggling by the end of the day with bad knees so much so it took us about 2.5hrs to descend from our final Peak of the day, Sue was being a complete legend as it was pretty clear she was in a great deal of pain but battled on down with out any fuss.

Day 2 - S tarts off straight up the North Ridge of Tryfan and awesome Grade 1 Scramble and our training ground for Crib Coch on the final day. No hangovers today just very sore legs.We made great time to the summit enjoying some challenging scrambling onroute. Our next summit awaited as we made our way up the loose scree to Glyder Fach then onto Glyder Fawr.

At this point our other Sue had run out of steam, we had a regroup discussed a plan of action, Myself & Dave assisted Sue off the mountain as she was totally exhausted, Bryn & Emma then continued on to finish all the remaining summits for the day not to be beat by this tough challenge.

Bryn & Emma finally finished at 20.30 we headed straight for a beer and some dinner, Pie & Chips all round.

Day 3 - Our Final day and we were now down to 3 of us to finish off the route.

We awoke early morning, all very excited as today we were doing the Snowdon Horseshoe an awesome high level route around the Snowdon Massif, only to look out the window to see Snowdon totally white, I couldn't believe my eyes snow in May.
After a team meeting we decided we would start the route as assess the conditions as the day went. We also had another injury as Emma's knee was in pretty bad shape. You would never believe you could have so many bad knees in one group.

Any how we decided to give it our best shot as the mountains were looking like they just had to be climbed with a fresh covering of snow and now blue skies.

Unfortunately Emma's knee was giving her so much pain we had to retreat and call it a day.

We made a plan to return and complete the Snowdon Horseshoe later in the year when everyone's knees were in working order.
It's was a great weekend, i'm already looking forward to catching up having a beer and finish off what we started.

I've now got 3 days to recharge the batteries before the 3 Peaks this weekend.

I hope everyone has good knees.

Spring Time

2010-04-22T10:11:00.001-07:00

Were enjoying this fine weather up in Snowdonia at the moment.
Snowdonia Nat Pk is so dry it's unbelievable and there's still pockets of snow on the tops which makes the Park looks stunning.

We have been busy running navigation courses over the last few weeks.
All the course's have varied from the NNAS Award Scheme to Mountain Leader Refresher Course's and Night Navigation.

Next weekend is the first of our Welsh 15 Peaks of the season and the forecast is looking good.

Everyone on the May Toubkal Climb have been trying to squeeze in some training and reports from Jamal our man in Morocco is that all the snow has now cleared and it's warming up nicely, which is great news as were camping.

See you on the hill

Jim

Welsh Ridge Walks

2010-04-09T13:44:00.000-07:00

Spring is finally here and we've also had some great sunny days.

It's been a fab winter, but were happy to see spring finally arrive.

Our first weekend this spring was spent doing some of the lesser known walks in Snowdonia, but just as stunning as the popular walks, the bonus being it's very quiet and free from all the more popular routes.

On Saturday we headed out for the Nantlle Ridge, with stunning views of Snowdon and the coastline plus some easy scrambling the Nantlle Ridge is a must for all those looking for something new away from the crowds.

Once we had got over the initial shock of a very long steep climb onto the ridge and were rewarded with magnificent 360 views.

On the ridge the route starts on a broad ridge then narrows into a smaller brother of Crib Coch the great thing about Nantlle is you can take the more challenging route or the more relaxed route.

Sunday we climbed Cnitch known as the Matterhorn of Wales this is one of those quiet parts of the National Park that when your there you think why have I not been here before it's simply stunning again great views of Snowdon, Cadir Idris and the Coast.

There's a short scramble to the summit which just adds the whole experience once on the summit it was lunch time before following a short wide ridge then finally descending to our start point.

Both these routes get very little visitors which make it's such a special place.

Remember mum's the word.

Scottish Winter Skills

2010-04-02T05:22:00.000-07:00

We Loaded up our Land Rover for what was going to be a slow trip to the Scottish Highlands.
The joy of driving a land rover, well we would be going slow enough to enjoy the stunning Scottish Highlands but get a very numb backside in the process.

Arriving in Aviemore and the sun was shining, Wow this is going to be a good week. Of course it was't to last about an hour in fact.

So our winter skills started off ice axe arrest then moving onto snow pack asessment and winter navigation skills and finally crossing step ground.

After 3 days practising all our new skills in strong winds and zero visability we headed out on our expedition.

Once on the Cairn Gorm plateau we were down to zero visability so good navigation was need to find a venue for our night in a snow hole.

After 3 hours digging we finally had our cosy little home and a brew on.

Everyone had a good night's sleep if not a little damp.

The folowing day we spent practising our navigation before covering some steep ground decending Fiacaill Ridge and finally a controlled bum slide into Corrie Sneachda.

After a hot shower we headed out for a curry and well earn't beer..

Everyone then headed home the following day.

I stayed on a few days to make the most of the last few weeks of winter conditions, another day on the Cairn Gorm and then climbed gulley number 4 on Ben Nevis in glourious sunshine before heading back to Wales justv in time for more snow.

What an amazing winter this has been, lets hope we continue to have more winter like this year.

Rjukan Ice Climbing

2010-03-06T17:19:00.000-08:00

We arrived in Norway with a bang that was our landing the runway was a sheet ice pretty scary.

Outside the airport it was blowing a gale and about -12 the adventure had begun.
Our first 5 days in Rjukan were really cold average daily temp -16 so it made the ice really brittle so it was coming away in huge pieces. One of our group ended up with a split eye and great black eye.

We headed for the lower gorge for the first 2 days then we checked out Ozizmosis these were great intro's into the area and ice climbing.
Norway is'nt cheap and £5 a pint at happy hour we only had a couple of beers before maxing out the credit cards.
With such cold conditions and huge amounts of snow our next planned adventure to MAEL was going to be full on.
MAEL is a true adventure with an absail into the gorge then a 4 pitch WI 3 cllimb out for the hard core there a WI 4 & WI 6.
After a long full days climb everyone was rewarded with 5ft of snow towade through a tough but awsome day.
It was time for a rest day for me but the remianing of the group climbed every day.

Rjukan is a world class ice climbing area with over 150 water falls to climb with climbing routes to suit every level.
We headed out for the Krokan area once everyone was feeling strong this area had some of more technical climbing in the area there were some pretty knarly ice colums to be climbed for those good enough of mad enough.
We spent a couple days in the upper gorge there was some full on multi- pitch routes to be climbed including the world class Lipton good knows how people manage to climb it.
After 10 days we were all well and truly wasted everyyone climbed really hard but we all left Norway very happy and planning next years rtn trip.

Winter Skills

2010-02-08T15:04:00.000-08:00

Fantastic weather here in Snowdonia over the weekend, we had clear blue skies and great snow conditions for the winter skills course.
Both days were spent in Cwm Lloer learning and practising new skills.
Sunday managed to bag a few summits on the Carneddau and the views over Snowdonia were just magic.
There seemed to be alot of people on the hill who must have though it was mid July , with very little equipment, there were no crampons or ice axes to be seen, even a pair of boots would would have been good for some walkers.
The mountains in the U.K. can be very dangerous places to be with the wrong equipment so make sure you have all the right skills & kit before heading out.
You don't want to be in the paper come monday morning !

Sorry about that just a little rant.
lets hope the winter conditions continue.
Were of to Norway in 10 days to enjoy some world class ice climbing.
Have fun.

Toubkal Jan 2010

2010-01-15T13:27:00.000-08:00

After a short 3hr flight from the U.K. we touched down in Marrakesh to a perfect temperature of 19c, We then headed straight off for some lunch and then spent the afternoon wondering around the sights and souks of Marrakesh.
A short 2hr drive through stunning valleys we finaaly arrived at out guest house in Imlil.

After meeting our Moroccan guide Rashid the evening was spent getting our kit ready for the climb and a quick briefing before our early morning departure for the refuge.

The forecast for the next 3 days was possible snow on day one and two and and clear skies for our summit day.

The snow line was at 3000mt so things were looking good, our climb to the refuge at 3200mt would be quicker and easier.

As soon as our donkey's were loaded up with all our food and supplies for the next 3 days we slowly made our way to the refuge at 3200mt a climb of nearly 1400mt so a big day at altitude, it took us nearly 7hrs to reach the refuge stopping for tea along the way, thankfully the Moroccans like drinking tea just as much as the us so we were in good company.

Everyone was feeling pretty good with the altitude just a few mild headaches.

Once at the refuge it was tea time once again then we had just enough time to practise our winter skills and play around in the snow.

We awoke early the next morning to a total white out the wind was blowing at about 40kph which would mean we could only spend the day in the valley due to high avalanche risk.

All though we did manage two short walks up to 3400mt to help everyone acclimatise along with playing in the snow, plenty of tea and the odd game of cards.

By mid afternoon two of us headed out to check the conditions on the summit ascent route only to find the snow pack in very dangerous condition and a high risk of avalanche.

We would need a miracle for us to summit the following morning.

After another great evening meal and a birthday cake plus more tea and of course a game of cards we headed for bed praying for the conditions to change.

We woke early to check the weather only to find a foot of snow on the door of the refuge and the wind still blowing strong so we decided for the leisurely breakfast as we couldn't make a summit attempt in such adverse weather conditions.

After breakfast we started to make our way back down to Imlil along with everyone else staying in the refuge. Its was hard going trying to break a trail in over a foot of snow and of course the strong winds.

Finally after 1hr on the trail the weather finally broke and we were rewarded with breath taking views of the High Atlas and only our foot marks in the snow, it was like a winter wonderland and the snow was as low down as 1500mts which was not to common in Morocco.

Once back in Imlil we had time to chillout wounder around the village before dinner and a few celebration drinks.

Another early start back to the airport but to finish off our adventure we found ourselves stuck on the road due to a landslide so it was all has on deck or rocks in this case as we cleared the road and finally to the airport.

Despite not making it to the summit due the weather we had a great trip with alot of laughs and the trail back down after all the snow fall just made up it.

Snowdonia

2009-12-21T14:27:00.000-08:00

We have some great winter conditions at the momment in Snowdonia.

So we've been out making the most it.

We got some great winter routes done on the Glyders and Cwm Idwal.

The snow is still a little soft in the gullies but fingers crossed we get a hard frost tonight and it's back out tommorrow for more fun and games.

Some of the team who are coming on our Toubkal Winter Climb in January are out on the hill tomorrow getting some training in.

Were off to Scotland over Christmas and New Year, Our plan is to start off on the West Coast then were heading East then finishing on the Isle of Skye should be a blast.

Kilimanjro

2009-11-19T13:43:00.000-08:00

What an amazing two trips we had on Kilimanjaro.
Our first trip was with Help for Hero's with 5 founded soldiers which had loads of press coverage, I even made it onto GMTV so I'm now famous.
The lads were amazing all 5 made it to the summit and we only had 2 members out of the whole team not summit due to altitude sickness.
We had some tough weather over the 7 day climb plenty of rain and snow but thankfully on summit night we had good weather for the climb but unfortunately the summit was pretty much a white out.

The lads were a great inspiration and real hero's never was anything to much of a problem for them and we had some great laughs along the way.
The was even a Guinness World record broken for the first ascent of Kilimanjaro on crouches.
I must say I think the descent on the buggy deserved a world record for the first Tanzanian Bob sledge Team. Check out the video for yourself.

After 24hrs in Moshi just enough time to recharge the batteries.

A new team of climbers arrived and we were off to the summit once again this time we were doing a 6 day climb so less time to acclimatise.

The new team of climbers were keen a mustard and kept up great spirits as once again we had rain, snow and thankfully the last 2 days we had sunshine just enough time dry out our kit before summit night.

Summit night is always a tough night no matter how times you climb Kili and the feeling of triumph is always there.

19 out of 21 summited which is great credit to the group who supported each other the whole way.

Once back down in Moshi we hit the bar then showers and then back to the bar for a great night out Moshi.

They were two incredible trips both fantastic groups and it was great to back out in Tanzania.

Can't wait for next year now.

Kili Time

2009-10-21T08:05:00.000-07:00

Well it's that time of year again when we head of to Tanzania and heady height's of Kilimanjaro.

Were going to be assisting with the Help For Hero's Kilimanjaro Climb, the team of 18 climbers consist of wounded soldiers from Afghanistan and Iraq plus a film crew and journalist from the Sun newspaper.

So you can keep updated on the climb Via the Sun news paper or our facebook blog.

Once down from Kilimanjaro I will just enough time for a quick rest before heading straight back up the following day.

There a huge drought in East Africa at the moment so water is in short supply which is going to add the the already tough challenge of summiting Kilimanjaro.

Our next planned overseas trip in January will be Mt Toubkal in Morocco and place's are filling up quickly, last year we had some great winter conditions with plenty of snow on the mountain and clear skies.

Right then best go and back.

Snowdon Climb

2009-09-16T12:00:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to everyone who completed the Snowdon climb on Saturday and raising some very much needed funds for the local scout hut which will now help towards some very much needed work.

We had perfect weather the sun was shinning and not a cloud in the sky.

The group chose to climb up Watkin Path which has the lowest starting point on any Snowdon climb then the route slowing climbs past the old copper mines and Gladstone Rock before finally climbing up the scree to the Summit and finally descending down the PYG track.

While everyone was enjoying Snowdonia I was enjoying the Lake District helping out on 24 Peaks challenge which involved climbing 24 Peaks over 2400ft in 24hrs.

It's a very tough challenge thankfully we had glorious weather and good visibility which helped us a great deal to complete the challenge.

We took 2 days to complete the challenge but completed it in under 24hrs walking.

There was some very tough climbs but we had fantastic views over the Lakes which made all hard work worth it.

It's now time to start concentrating on training for Kilimanjaro in October,

Wet & Windy

2009-09-04T03:31:00.000-07:00

It's been a fun August with us doing the 3 Peaks 24hr challenge in a mix of conditions on the first challenge we had perfect weather with great views from all the summits the sun was even out to greet on Ben Nevis.

Then on the second challenge we had it really tough with strongwinds and driving rain which made it really tough going but everyone completed the challenge.

We also had a Snowdon weekend starting off with a Scramble up Tryfan

North Ridge which always great fun again the conditions were a little gusty to say the least.
The next day our route was the Snowdon HorseShoe but typical of this summer the weather conditions

were not on our side as it was a little like monsoon season and we were made to take another route.

It must have been one of the wettest day i've ever had on Snowdon, we were

like drowned rats when we finllay reached the summit, thankfully the cafe was open for a hot brew before heading back down compltety soaked must adimit it was a tough old day.

We have another Snowdon training weekend this week and the conditions are looking good.

Then it's time to look forward to our winter program with Toubkal looking very busy this year, lets hope we have a good winter like last year.

July

2009-08-05T12:37:00.000-07:00

July has been and gone we've been making the most of the summer day light hours even if the sun has been in hiding.

We helped out on a Snowdon training weekend early in July, everyone at the weekend was in training for there charity challenges.

We climbed the Glyders on Saturday and then Snowdon on Sunday, we had some rough weather on Saturday but we were rewarded with some sunshine and great views from Snowdon Summit.
Everyone swapped a few fund raising idea's and few extra tips for there big challenge ahead.

It was also great to meet some of the team who i will be climbing Kilimanjaro with for Help For Hero's in October.

Also in July we had another 15 Peaks Challenge, once again the first day was spent in very poor visibility and much of the day was spent navigating our way over the Carneddau in thick mist.

Day 2 started off on the challenging north ridge of Tryfan and everyone was buzzing when we finally made it to the Summit, it was then onto the Glyders and the Canterliever Rock, some members then decided to call it day while the others raced on up Y Garn and Elidir Fawr to finish what was a very long day.
Day 3 we had perfect weather for the Snowdon Horseshoe, starting off nice and early we made our way over Crib Coch which is always a bit of a challenge then the weather closed in for a short while and we finally made to Snowdon Summit our final 15 Peaks Summit for late lunch.
Everyone was still feeling strong so we decided to complete the Snowdon Horseshoe.
We finally made it back to Pen Y Pass well and truly worn out just in time for beer o clock.

Disney Climb Snowdon

2009-06-13T02:19:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to all the Disney who climbed Snowdon raising money for Great Ormond Street Hospital.

After a long coach journey up from London everyone finally arrived in Snowdonia late Friday evening after dinner it was time for a quick briefing then straight to the pub for a night cap.

Everyone woke Saturday morning to glorious sunshine, looking forward to the day ahead we all got our kit together ready to set off for Snowdon, Then out of nowhere two very special guests arrived.

It was Mikey Mouse and Goofy they had come to see everyone off on there Snowdon Challenge.

Mikey, Goofy and all the climbers jumped on board the bus for Snowdon stopping on route for a few photo's with our very special friends.

Mikey & Goofy then had to head back home and we started out on our Snowdon Challenge.

Our ascent route up Snowdon was on one of the less used routes but also the longest and hardest which kept us away from all the crowds.

Once we had climbed onto the South Ridge which was going to lead us all the way to the summit we were rewarded with stunning 360 views of Snowdonia.

After a very relaxed lunch stop we made our last climb to the Summit, we then finally made our way back down the PYG Track and to our waiting bus at Pen Y Pass feeling pretty worn out and a little sun burnt.

After dinner it was time for a few celebration drinks to toast the success of the climb and the huge amount of money raised for the Great Ormond Street Hospital.

15 Peaks

2009-05-27T04:40:00.000-07:00

We have just completed our first Welsh 15 peaks of the season and we experienced every possible type of weather you could have in Snowdonia.

Friday on the Carrneddau was spent mainly in thick hill fog,it was a long hard day but we were rewarded with the odd clearing for our efforts.

Saturday we started on Tryfan the conditions started off pretty good then slowly got worse as the day went on, once on the Glyders we had 60mph + winds hail which really hurt and poor visibility, but our spirits were not being damped even if our kit was.

Next up was Y Garn and by now the fog had cleared and we had the feeling of success in our hearts, but it wasn't to be the wind got even stronger so we had to desend into the Llanberberis pass and head for Pete's eats for a huge mug of tea and chocolate cake Yum Yum.

Sunday we headed up the Watkin Path as the forecast wasn't on our side for doing Crib Coch.

Again we started in light rain which became heavy rain and then finally snow, Yea in May !

Once on the Summit of Snowdon the cloud lifted and we had it all to ourselves. Happy Days.

We then descended down the south ridge and more tea and cake was eaten.

The following weekend we had glorious sunshine for our Snowdon Weekend.

Starting of at the base of Tryfan we climbed the North Ridge, reaching Tryfan summit is always a great sense of achievement, we then traveresed the Glyders all in perfect sunshine.

Sunday we took the South Ridge up Snowdon and returned down the Miners track all feeling pretty worn out and sunburnt.

China

2009-04-24T02:06:00.000-07:00

We have just completed an 8 day trek on the Great Wall.
The weather has been every thing from sunshine and 26 to freezing cold with heavy rain.
The food has been great apart from a few dodgy meals, I'm now becoming hooked on dumplings.
Everyone completed the trek and were now in Beijing and heading out tonight to check out the Beijing night life.

The next group arrive in tomorrow then I'm off again to trek the Wall this time a slightly different route which take us to the more remote parts staying in some small farming communities.
Should be great fun if the weather is kind.

Snowdon Weekend

2009-03-24T03:14:00.000-07:00

We have just completed our first Snowdon Weekend of 2009 and thankfully the weather was pretty kind.

Saturday on the Glyders was a little windy and the visibility was poor at times but we made it up Glyder Fawr in time for lunch (tea & welsh cakes), then it was onto Glyder Fach and the Cantilever stone before dropping down to Llyn Bochlwyd and finally back to base for more tea and cakes.

It was then time for a few well earnt beers in the evening after dinner.

Sunday the weather was much kinder and we had perfect conditions for our ascent of Snowdon, the last 100mts to the summit proved to be a bit of a challenge with there still being snow and ice on the path but we made finally to the summit for lunch.

After a good lunch we slowly made our way back down to Pen Y Pass Via the Miners Track enjoying the sunshine and views on route.

Jebel Toubkal

2009-03-16T15:44:00.000-07:00

We have just completed our first winter ascent of jebel Toubkal 4187mts the highest mountain in North Africa. With record levels of snow fall on the High Atlas this year we had perfect winter conditions.

Starting from the small berber village of Imlil passing through walnut and cherry orchids, we soon hit the snow line at 1900mts. After 6hrs trekking up the stunning valley we finally made it to our base camp in Neltner at 3207mts.

An early start the following morning saw us start our final ascent of Toubkal, there had been heavy snow over night and it was knee deep at times so the going was pretty tuff, but everyone made good time and finally summited after 4hrs and were rewarded with breath taking views over the High Atlas.

We then descended back down to base camp for a much needed lunched and finally back down to Imlil exhausted but very happy.

We then spent the next day in Marrakesh before heading home.

Sahara

2009-03-13T04:36:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to everyone who completed the 100km Sahara Trek.

With out trusty ships of the desert loaded up we set off into Sahara.

Day one was a nice easy short day just to get us into the swing of things, we arrived into camp nice and early set up camp and enjoyed our first of many nights under the stars.

The weather soon changed with heavy snow falling in the High Atlas which brings strong winds to the Sahara we were lucky or unlucky enough to experience a full blown sand storm one night which gave the camp a right old beating with tents being blown down.

The wind stopped the day we climbed Chagaga a 300ft sand dune the views from the summit were truly amazing.

Our last couple of days were spent crossing a huge salt flats were me managed to cover some big distances.

After 7 days of sand and stars we were finally back at our hotel for a much needed shower and cold beer.

Snowdonia

2009-02-13T13:45:00.001-08:00

What a week it has been. It's been fantastic having such great winter conditions in Snowdonia. This blog is going to be a bit short I just thought I would put a few photo's up, i'm guessing they won't do any justice to how stunning it's been in Snowdonia.

Weve done a few ice routes in Cwm Idwal and the LLanberis Pass and some great winter gullies, We camped out to be reward with a stunning full moon and clear skies, its been an action packed week.

Fingers crossed for more good winter weather.
P.s. Check out the Ice climber on the bottom picture.

Welsh ice climbing

2009-02-08T04:15:00.000-08:00

Who ever said winters are dull.

This recent cold weather is giving us some fantastic winter conditions in Snowdonia, with ice climbing routes now coming into good condition it was time for me to do my first Welsh ice route we head for Twll Du (Devils Kitchen).

Once in Cwm Idwal we chose our route had a quick brew then began our climb, i was so excited to be finally ice climbing in Snowdonia.

The route started off fairly easy so we just picked our way up, after 200mts we roped up as the next section was a grade 2 this section of the climb was awsome with my calves burning and heart pumping and the back drop into the Cwm was incredible.

After 3 pitches we put the rope away as we entered a gully then picked our way up finally topping out 3hrs later had a quick brew then i t was time to navigate our way down as the visability was down about 20mts.

All in all it was a fantastic winter day

Tryfan

2009-01-30T08:52:00.001-08:00

The Joys of Snowdonia mid week, it's nice and quiet and the hills are pretty much empty.

Just been for a quick Scramble up Tryfan we met at Llyn Ogwen at 7.30am had a quick coffee then set off on what i would say is one of my favourite mountains in Snowdonia. Our Route of choice was the North Ridge, it was a bit windy and Visibility was quite poor above 750mts, Tryfan's North Ridge is a great Scramble as it has something for everyone what ever your experience.

The last of the snow is now disappearing so fingers crossed the forecast is accurate and we get some more good winter conditions soon.

Argentina

2009-01-21T14:43:00.001-08:00

Reports from Nico our Argentine Guide in Salta the last ascents on Nevado de Cachi have gone really well with over 70% of the group topping out at a massive 6380Mt's.

The weather at times has been a little unpredictable which is nothing new to this part of the world, they had a few days of strong winds, and were even lucky enough to get some snow fall on our last summit day of 2008 which made the summit day sunrise something special.

Thanks to the help of the porters and the trusty mules on all the treks because without there hard work it would have been impossible.

Nevado de Cachi is a real gem of a mountain it's a tough old climb at 6380Mt's but the rewards are worth all the effort and for a trek no more technical than Kilimanjaro with more altitude and a lot more attitude with breathless views over the Andes in more ways than one this mountain just has to be on the tick list.

Plus after a long hard rewarding climb what better than enjoying a bit down hill mountain biking, wine tasting and some great Argentinian Steaks.

Scotland

2009-01-19T03:13:00.001-08:00

With what looked like good winter conditions in January Adventurous Ewe headed to Scotland to make the most of the Snow and Ice before it all disappeared.

After a fairly long drive we had made it to Aviemore and the Cairngorms, Our first few days were spent running through a few winter skills such as Ice axe arrest, stopping around in crampons and a bit of navigation work.

We also had time for a bit of a Scramble in Corrie Sneachda which was challenging but great fun.

The weather was fairly kind, but we did have a few days when the wind was nearly blowing you off your feet but it wouldn't feel like the Cairngorms without the wind.

We then decided on a change of scenery and headed south towards Loch Laggan and climbed Corire Choille and explored some great grade 1 & 2 gullies.Conditions were now changing as the wind picked up and the wet weather arrived so we headed to Glencoe with our fingers crossed for good conditions but it wasn't to be all the snow was disappearing fast, we were finally beaten, all feeling pretty tired and sad to be leaving Scotland it was time to head home to Wales and start praying for more winter conditions.

Welsh Winter

2009-01-06T06:25:00.000-08:00

We've had some fantastic days here in Snowdonia over December and into the new year, At times with plenty of Snow and clear blue skies.

The first day of 2009 was spent watching the sunrise from the top of Snowdon, what a great way it was to see in the New Year, it was then back down in time for a huge lunch and few beers.
We were blessed again with great weather for our first Snowdonia weekend of 2009.

Our first day was on Moel Siabod, it was a bit icy in patches which added to the fun plus the usual laughs crossing the bog and staying dry !! we slowly made our way to the ridge for our ascent, then it was a nice scramble up the ridge to the summit where we had fantastic views of the Snowdon Horseshoe. Were Jess And Pippa the two dogs enjoyed a well earnt rest and a biscuit or two.
The following day we spent on the Glyders starting off with Glyder Fach passing Devils Kitchen and finishing on Elidir Fawr, again we were rewarded with stunning views over Snowdonia before making our way down to Nant Peris and finally petes eats!!

We had fantastic weather all weekend and everyone was feeling pretty worn out at the end even Jess & Pippa.

Kilimanjaro In The Snow

2008-11-04T13:20:00.001-08:00

All feeling a little anxious 22 of us met in Heathrow Airport ready to take on Kilimanjaro.

Finally arriving in Tanzania we were rewarded with a glimpse of Kilimanjaro which left most of the group speechless.

After sorting out all our porters,cooks and local Guides we started out for our 1st nights camp at 3100Mt's, today's route was to take us through the stunning rainforest then finally following the ridge line into camp.

After an early start with Veiws of Kibo we slowly made our way to the Shira Plateau 3850Mts arriving at camp in the mist, it's was a short day in distance but everyone was feeling the effects of altitude.

We woke the the next morning to incredible views over the maasai step and Mt Meru 4600Mts, today was to be a tough day as we planned to climb up to the Lava Tower 4600Mt's passing through Lava fields giving the mountain a luna feel, we then planned to drop back down into camp at the base of the Barranco Wall 3900mt passing Giant Lobelia which grows up to 3mt along the way.

Some members of the team were really feeling the altitude once we reached the 4000mt mark and descended down to camp early so save there energy for the following days, everyone who went up to the Lava Tower did so with relative ease we finally made camp at 16.30.The next day we made our way up the Barranco Wall everyone really loving this section on the mountain as it's more hands on stuff, After a 2hr climb we reached the top of the Barranco wall and again we were rewarded with stunning views for what went on for hundreds of miles.

loosing 2 members of the team today the going was getting tough but we made it to Barafu Camp in good time, everyone now had 7hrs rest and prepare their kit before we left for the summit at midnight.

Waking up a 23.00 for our summit ascent to find out it had been snowing was unbelievable then to look up and see millions of stars in the sky made you feel very lucky.

The last night ascent up to the summit doesn't get any easier physically it's a bloody hard climb the air is so thin you have to walk at a snails pace, mentally when you know what lies ahead it makes the night easier.

We lost a few more members of the group through the night due to altitude and exhaustion those who made it to Stella Point and the Uhuru peak were rewarded with a truly amazing sunrise over Africa.

With everyone back at a camp dead on their feet we had 2hrs rest before moving onto to our final nights camp and a good nights sleep.

Back in Moshi after a long hot shower it was time for a few of Kilimanjaro beers and to celebrate every one's success.

Maximum Respect.............

Snowdonia weekend

2008-10-09T14:24:00.001-07:00

Everyone began to meet up in Capel Curig for what looked like the wettest weekend in wales on record, We started off with dry feet and high spirits the high spirits lasted all weekend but the dry feet lasted all of 5 minutes.

We headed for the summit of Moel Siabod climbing the southern ridge with plenty of options for a scramble and perfect training for the Barranco Wall on Kilimanjaro, halfway up the ridge we made a change of plan due to the weather conditions and headed down off the ridge.

So a new plan was in order so we headed for Llyn y Foel followed the outlet which was a absolute stunning walk, the river was thundering down along side our route as we headed for the shelter of the forest and finally returning back to the hostel and hot showers.

After a good nights sleep helped along by a few well earned beers everyone was ready for the next days walk, today was to prove to be much better as we had clear blue skies and perfect views of the Snowdon Horseshoe.

Peru

2008-10-01T02:53:00.000-07:00

Everyone gathered in heathrow all very excited as we were heading to Cusco in Peru, the heart of the Inca Empire.

We were planning on taking on the infamous Inca Trail. After a long flight via New York we finally made it to Cusco, at 3350mts, we made the most of some free time to relax and acclimatise.

The following morning we headed off on a short 4hr walk to help acclimatise. Starting of at Tambo Machay 3700Mt's feeling a little breathless we slowly made our way back to Cusco passing Puca Pucara, Qenko and finally the magnificent Sacsayhuaman Inca sites along the way. An early start the following morning we headed off for the Sacred valley of the Inca's stopping in Ollantaytanbo for our last supplies which included bags of coca leafs and chocolate. We set of from km82 happy to finally be on the trail. Our first day was nice and steady with stunning views of Veronica 5800mts as our back drop as we made our way through the valley following the Urubamba river and finally into camp at 3200mts. After a good nights sleep we were woken with a hot cup of coca tea then a good breakfast before we took on Dead Womans Pass at 4200mts. Everyone made it to the top feeling a little breathless while the porters just went sprinting past.

Day 3 in my mind is the best of them all starting off with a steady climb up Runku Raqay Pass and finishing in Winay Wayna passing through pristine cloud forest where the humming birds go whizzing past your ear even faster than the porters. As you pass through some of the most amazing Inca sites in the mist it just makes it feel even more mysterious.

We all finally made it into camp in good time and enjoyed our first cold beer in days.

Our final day and we said goodbye to the porters before setting off for the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu. After a couple of hours we made it to the Sun Gate and stunning views of Machu Picchu, thankfully no mist today.

We then spent the rest of the day exploring Machu Picchu and just soaking it all up. Next stop was the train trip back through the rain forest and Cusco here we come.....

We had a few quiet beers in Cusco before finally heading home.

Bring Me Sunshine

2008-07-18T12:52:00.000-07:00

Who ever said it was summer

It's been like the autum here at times in snowdonia armed with thermals and woolly hats. But it's not stopped us enjoying all that the national park has to offer.

Our Snowdon weekend started off with good weather, but as we crossed the Glyders the visablitiy became quite poor, which can add to the atmosphere of the Glyders with it's huge rock outcrops giving you the feeling of an unknown world.We were Finally rewarded with stunning views of the Ogwen Valley when we decsended out of the cloud.

The following day we had perfect conditions so we set off early for the summit of Snowdon and had perfect clear views over the whole of Snowdonia and the coast.

The following weekend we were on the Carrneddeu the most remote mountain range in Snowdonia we Sarted off with a steep ascent of Pen yr Ole Wen. Then making our way to Carnedd Dafydd before mving onto Carnedd llewelyn the second hightest peak in Snowdonia. The cloud finally cleared and rewarded us with stunning views over the whole Range.

Our route then Continued along a norrow ridge and onto a short Scramble giving us some Fantastic views of Tryfan before heading back down to the Ogwen valley and a much needed cuppa

Snowdon weekend

2008-06-12T15:02:00.000-07:00

With the Peru reunion being held in North Wales it was time for everyone
to blow the cobwebs off those trekking boots and head for Snowdon.

Everyone arrived in Rhyd Du on friday night after a long drive, a few Cusquena were dunk along side a little bit of wine!!!! while we all sat around the fire ate a BBQ enjoyed the stars and talked a load of rubbish. Perfecto

Saturday morning we woke to blue skies and perfect conditions, After a good breakfast we set off for Snowdon Summit following the Rhydd Du path for a short while then upto Bwlch Cwm LLan and stuuning views into cwm llan and Lliwedd. We then followed the ridge all the way to the Summit of Snowdon and were rewarded with fantastic views over Snowdonia.
After leaving the summit the weather closed in and we headed back down to Rhyd Du in time to chill out before dinner followed by another evening under the stars and a few cusquena's and a little more wine!!! mention no names.
Sunday morning and more blue skies so an easy day called for, a short walk around Llyn-y-Gader and Beddgelert Forest and back for lunch.

Everyone then headed home and the next reunion planned for Scotland.
It was great to catch up with everyone fingers crossed more of the team can make it to Scotalnd.

I would also like to thanks dave's sponser CUSQUENA.

Land's end to John o' Groats

2008-05-22T01:32:00.000-07:00

With everyone arriving at Lands end feeling a little nervous but enjoying the sunshine and hoping it lasted all the way to John o' Groats.

The first few days through Cornwall and Devon was tough with a head wind and crossing over Dartmoor some big hill climbs.

From Devon we headed towards the welsh borders and some fantastic riding everyone was pretty settled in and enjoying the country side and still the the sun was shining.

From the welsh borders we shot through the north west and into the lakes and a warm welcome with Shap hill.

Before everyone knew it we were in bonny Scotland and everyone was looking forward to this section of the challenge.

Our route took us up the west coast first then finally crossing over to the east coast and onto John o' Groats

After 12 days riding everyone was feeling a little sore and very happy to reach John o' Goats a huge amount of money was raised for charity and a huge amount of beers was drunk in Inverness.

kilimanjaro Training Weekend

2008-04-28T03:14:00.000-07:00

Everyone arrived in Snowdonia Friday night and Saturday morning and meeting each other for the first time, all having the same mission to climb Kilimanjaro in September.

We based ourselves in Plas Curig which is at the foot of Moel Siabod.

Our first days walk was up Moel Siabod which starts off with a beautiful walk along the Afon Llugwy before a steady climb to the south side of Moel Siabod up past the old Slate Mine to Llyn y Foel then nice steady scramble up the ridge to the summit and into the cloud.

The Scramble up the ridge was a great little warm up in preparation for the Barranco Wall.

Once on the Summit we all headed back down the Northern side of the mountain and finally out of the cloud where we all enjoyed the stunning views back down the valley.

The evening was then followed up by a few beers and lots of talk about Kilimanjaro.

Sunday morning was just a nice little stretch out for a few hours with a bit of hands on scramble before heading to the pub for Sunday lunch and planning the next training weekend.

Welsh Winter wounderland

2008-04-11T14:09:00.000-07:00

Finally some decent snow in Snowdonia.

It was play time while most people were at work in the every day grind.

We out headed for the the Carneddau some of the most bleak mountains in Snowdonia.

With ice axes in hand our plan of attack was the Llafar Ridge a great ridge Scramble in the summer so in winter conditions we were in for a ball.

The weather was pretty good to start off good vis for about 100mts at times, but as you would expect the weather closed in and the wind got up.

The hail was like being sand blasted in face while looking down into an abyss below which just disappeared into the mist.

This was a good welsh winter in April !

Half way up the ridge we had a change of plan and decided to head up a gully which was hilarious as we were then nearly waist deep in snow

(I was anyway).

Finally we reached the summit of Carnedd Dafydd in a white out, you couldn't see your hand in front of your face, with a bit of navigation and we were back in the land of living at home with the kettle on.

God I Love Wales

Peru Lares

2008-04-08T05:23:00.000-07:00

Having done the Inca Trail 7 times the Lares Trail had a lot to live up to........

So we set off from heathrow. Well we tried! Our flight was cancelled thanks to terminal 5. So everyone went for a beer and a few hours later finally, we were on our way - via the whole of the America's .........

After what felt like a life time sitting in airports we were finally on foot and hoof, with our trusty horse's as support, and heading for Machu Picchu.

Right from the start the the trail was just breath taking...........

Starting off at 3700mts in the sacred valley climbing to 4200mts passing through a narrow gorge with Pre Inca mummies and finishing off in a hot springs at 3200mts was not a bad start to the trail.

Up at 4.45am and then a steady climb from camp up through an amazing glacial valley going through some very welcoming Andean villages and up to our 2nd pass of 4200mts and that was before lunch. We camped that night at 3750mts where half the group decided to play football and woop the locals 5-4!

Up bright and early 4.45am and off again after another huge breakfast.
Today our climb was up to 4500mts and fingers crossed views of the Urabamba mountain range then decending down to 3800mts into camp where the group nearly drank the village out of beer and sang badly!

For me one of the many highlights of the Lares Trail is passing through the villages. It was great to have such an insight into life in the Andes.

Not forgetting the grand finale Machu Picchu which always leaves me speachless and a little breathless.

It was a great trip with a great bunch of people.

Perfecto.

Costa Rica

2008-03-27T07:07:00.000-07:00

Costa Rica is the perfect place for adventure. It has some of the best rivers, wettest rain forest, a stunning coast line and some of the most laid back people in the world.

Our mission was to trek from the Pacific coast to the Caribbean coast in 8 days in some of the most remote parts of Costa Rica with only horses as our support vehicles.....

The treking was pretty tough at times with non stop rain which turned the route into a huge mud bath. Nothing stays dry in Costa Rica!

Passing through the coffee plantations, huge oak trees and rain forests with howler monkeys and sopping wet half the time, made what was a pretty tough 8 days seem magical even if most of it felt like it was up hill.

Our last section of the trip was to raft the Pecuare river - one of the top 5 rivers in the world. A class 3/4 river passing through stunning gorges and thick jungle. What a river it was. Truely stunning plus a few heart stopping rapids to keep you on your toes. A few swimmers along the way but no flips.

Then it was James Bond style through the inland water ways to the Caribbean Coast.

What a trip...

PURA VIDA

Kilimanjaro

2008-03-06T10:11:00.000-08:00

Another successful Kili Ascent all the group made it to Stella point which was just amazing, We left base camp at 12.00am and reached Stella point at 06.30am, With everyone happy to see the sunrise and slowly warm up. One of the team had to go down from there which was really hard, everyone else pushed onto Uhuru Peak (The Roof Of Africa), we made it to the summit by 07.30am.
After 15Min's on the summit it was time to descend everyone was feeling pretty cold at-15c, plus the lack of oxygen it's tough going.
With everyone back in base camp 4600Mt's by 10.45am and dead on there feet after what feels like the longest night ever, A quick 2hrs rest then time to push onto our next camp at 3700Mt's and a beer then bed asap.
For all the group to make it to Stella point 14 in total at the same time was incredible.

This was my third time on the summit and it's still as hard as ever between 03.00am & 05.00am is the hardest it's so cold and your just wanting the sun to come up. You just go head headdown one foot in front of other and put your mind elsewhere.
Then as the sun comes up what you see before your eye's is just breath taking and worth all the hard work.

Kilimajaro is one of the hardest challenges you will ever take on but boy is it worth it.

IF YOU CAN'T CLIMB IT DRINK IT !!!!!!!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5s2OEPBGPo4

India 2008

2008-02-15T08:12:00.000-08:00

Well just got back from South India loved it started off in mumbai down to Goa for some beach time then south through Hampi,Mysore,Ooty,Cochin, Chilled on the houseboats then headed back to the beach. Which was very much needed after 2 weeks of very intresting travel from wonky buses, james bond style tuk tuks and packed trains.
Even manged to start getting a head wobble.

beijing

2004-08-28T11:12:00.000-07:00

well we made it, boy what a trip, never a dull momment we got very bogged at Nam Tso Lake at 4000m Long story. Dunhuang we bush camped in the desert new the south pass which marked the caravan route west and warned invaders during the Han Dynasty AD25. Then we skimmed the Gobi Desert and down to Xian and then onto hohot inner Mongolia and to one of the funniest night club ever. And finally into Beijing and quite a few beers.

Best of it is George and i are now driving back to Nepal and our chinese Translator has jumped ship no way does lilly want to do that again, so wev'e got a new translator who cant speak english ??

Were stopping in Lhasa to have a few cuba libre's with Fred in the Dunya Bar

Happy Days......

Lhasa

2004-08-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

Well we made it Lhasa and what fun it's been. We made along the 920km's of the friendship highway! Crossing our highest pass 5220m only just as there was a huge landslide we had to cross.Then we had the Rear suspension go on us so it took george and i 12hrs to sort out at 3900m. It was then onto Everest Base camp and everyone feeling pretty crap.

Kathmandu

2004-07-29T05:29:00.000-07:00

Well made i'm now in nepal getting ready for our trip into Tibet and then onto Beijing, sorting out all the endless paper work for Tibet. The truck is all ready to go, Weve very little in the way of route notes for northern china so we will make it as we go along we have a vauge plan. From Nepal north onto the Tibetan Plateau then north upto the Gobi Desert and then East onto Beijing all in 6 weeks.
Just been on a flight around everest and it's hard to belive were going to be driving a truck over the Himalaya, The flight was just breat taking one of the most amamzing sights i have ever seen.

Middle East

2004-05-07T12:59:00.000-07:00

What a cool place, must admit i was a bit nervous with the thought of coming here. I flew into Jordan and got a taxi to petra to catch up with the group, as soon as we hit the main road the first sign i saw was for Baghdad a little unnerveing with whats going on But wow what an intro to the middle east PETRA its place you have to see for yourself.

Next stop Red Sea and diving another wow !!! And some of the best rough camps ever in the western desert (Egypt).Then the norm Egypt stuff to many Tourists for me.

Then we were heading back to Syria which has to be my favourite Middle Eastern Country why ? well the list is endless great bush camps, amazing Roman Ruins, Alleppo Souk, And the best Falfel i've ever had, we had a few border problems on route but hey whats new.

Then eastern Turkey, very different to the west of the country and cold.

Then the big daddy Iran what wounderfull people, amazing mousque's (and cheap fuel 5p 1ltr) our first stop Tabriz onto Masuleh in the hills, Next up Shiraz (no wine), Persepolis, Yazd with is a really neat city in the desert and great cakes and then on to Terhan.

Then Transit back to greece in record time and to the UK to see Ben Harper in Manchester.

HAPPY DAYS.............

Patagonia

2002-04-21T13:30:00.000-07:00

St Patricks day in buenos aires boy o boy what a night had great laugh went to see a U2 tribute band,Drank and partyed all night long say no more ........
I always thought i would never see a water fall better or bigger than Vic falls but was i wrong Iguazu Falls is just huge i just made you want to jump into it.

It's one long old drive to the south but made to Ushuaia felling pretty wiped out time to chill out.

were at the Moreno Glacier and been on a short trek on the Glacier, Saw some great big chunks of the glacier braking off just incredible you can here it moving.

Still along way to go untill Quito and going well so far.

Nealry forgot went for a swim in a glacial lake at torres,One way to clear the head.