Hippocrates' Hibernian Hodomania
Walk report and photographs by Yvonne Gulley.
It was a dry, bright and breezy day for the three of us who walked Hippocrates' Hibernian Hodomania on 15th October. We set out on a loop to the west of Ireland Farm with views of the Begwns and Llanbwchllyn Lake before turning northwards to Twm Tobacco's grave, where we had morning tea ('bait') in the heather. From there we turned east onto Rhulen Hill, passing Dancing Ground, Red Hill and Doctor's Pool, where we picked up a byway. Doctor's Pool was dry, as were all the mawn pools we passed. Just short of the tarmac road to Bryngwyn, we stopped under a large ash tree for lunch, then we joined the road and turned west onto the common again just north of Bryngwyn village. Over Bryngwyn Hill we went, then down onto the footpath past Llanerchir and Perthycolly. A short, steep section of road followed, then we were back onto the open hill where we picked up a bridleway and enjoyed sweeping views of the Brecon Beacons until a misty cloud obscured them, bringing a brief shower. As we reached the road and Ireland farm again, we were rewarded with the return of the bright sunshine we had enjoyed all day long, and a full arc double rainbow. A quick drink in the Roast Ox, Painscastle finished off a glorious day.