Snow and ice may have caused traffic issues and closed schools last week but it also gave the landscape an alpine feel. As usual people were out sledging to make the most of the conditions.
But skiers also said it has brought some of the best conditions for a long time in Eryri (Snowdonia) – with fresh powder snow falling on hard ground. This saw parts of Eryri busy with skiers – and one person said it was like a “ski resort” near Marchlyn Mawr reservoir on Saturday with knee deep snow.
All routes in the region are ‘off-piste’ and there’s no easy way to get out – with any route requiring a decent walk with your gear first. But it was well worth it for those who made the effort – although one joked that we “now just need a ski lift”.
Mark Handford, from Snowdonia Adventures, was one of those who took full advantage of the conditions – taking to the Carneddau mountains. He said: “The past few days have given some of the best skiing in Eryri for a while, with fresh powder sitting on a stable firm base, the turns have been amazing!
Skiers near Marchlyn Mawr in Eryri
(Image: North Wales Live)
“You need to be able to ski all different types of snow, from melt crusty and hard ice, to firm snow, powder and softer heavier snow if the temperature rises.
“And as always the ability to understand weather and possible avalanche hazard, yes we do get avalanches in the mountains of Eryri on a regular basis during the winter season.
Skiing in the Caerneddau over the weekend
(Image: Mark Handford, Snowdonia Adventures)
“You can’t beat being on top of snow capped mountains with the sea as a backdrop.”
He did add that “Skiing in the mountains of Eryri is all off-piste, these aren’t pistes” – so don’t bank on a ski lift arriving anytime soon!
Sadly for those who’ve been loving the white stuff temperatures are now rising with a week of milder weather ahead.
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