We were invited by our son and dhis family to spend a few days between Christmas and the New Year at their home near Swansea. Apologies to DaiTheDragon but we only had two clear days and no time to spare. Our daughter-in-law announced that we would be going for a walk on Thursday, leaving at 9 am. I had hopes of going to Gower to snap a buzzard or kestrel hanging in the wind. However, we were taken instead to Glynneath and the southern outskirts of the Brecon Beacons.
The sun was out fitfully when we left home, but became much more elusive the more we went inland and the higher we climbed. We ended up walking uphill and downdale following the river with many streams and three large waterfalls. It is seven years since we left Swansea for East Anglia and the nearest hill to us is about 3 metres high. However, we coped and enjoyed it very much.
The sun continued to be elusive and we were reminded once again how much more rain there is in that part of the country. Moss and lichen abounded and water was everywhere. Nonetheless, the area had its own beauty and ambience and we had a great time. I did see a lightning blue tit and possibly a pair of ravens very high overhead - but that was it really until we came down into the Neath Valley.
Having reached the valley floor, we stopped at the Angel Inn for cawl, baguette and cheddar cheese. I should explain the cawl is homemade soup featuring chunks of Welsh lamb and vegetables - it was delicious - as was the pint of Rhymney bitter alongside.
I hope that the following snaps give a flavour of the country and weather conditions at that time.
Colin
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