Last weekend, Donatella, Nik and I discussed going up North and doing a long route. I suggested the Cyfrwy Arete. Plans were made and I think we all looked forward to the following weekend. Nik and I dilligently watched the weather forecasts as they seemed to forecast cold weather! We left on Saturday afternoon and drove up in Donatella's car.

Donatella and Nik

Had a quick bite to eat and set up a bivi at the little car park on the North side of Cader. It was quite cold. Donatella comandeered my nice warm duvet jacket and we all went to bed. Donatella and I slept badly. We left the bivi site too late and it was 11 O'clock before we got to the foot of the climb! This meant that we would have to descend in darkness. Not something I relished.

The Arete from afar

Nick led off first. I was cold but Nik always enthusiastic climbed well. Donatella led the second pitch and I followed. Donatella did well too I was surprised! She had appeared so cold and un-enthusiastic!

Donatella leading Pitch 2

When Nik appeared at the top of pitch 2, he looked a little shaken and I wondered why. He was wearing my duvet and couldn't possibly be cold. He complained of cold fingers and looked quite down in the dumps. Thought is was best if he were to lead off just so that he would keep moving. After negotiating the awkward start, I found myself having to reel off loads of rope. Nik must have been climbing well. When I climbed past Nik as he belayed me onto the table, he appeared as happy Larry sitting there in the wind. Must have been an enjoyable lead! We all climbed off the table and as it was really rather late, we decided to abseil off. None of us wanted to spend a cold night on top off Cader! Down on the scree we cooked up a pot-noodle each and then headed for the car. Stopped in a pub and an Indian restaurant on the way home. Finally got back home at 01.00. Slept well and felt fit in the morning!