Dicking about at Dinas Rock

We were dubious as we drove to Dinas Rock, owing to the dense, claustro-fog-ia that swamped most of the UK and dogged our drive. However, part way through Wales it was as if we crossed some invisible barrier; the fog rolled back and we emerged to clear blue skies and autumnal views over the Brecon Beacons.

It was our first visit to Dinas, and a perfect day for a good impression. The weather was cool and dry, with the sun dappling through whiskery trees to warm our backs as our hands froze on the burnished limestone. It isn't quiet, but the only noise is the river rushing through the rocks. We climbed mostly at Kennalgarth, a wide, yawning cave criss-crossed with cracked lines of feature; almost too much to choose from. The cave is overlooked by the 'Stone Bow', Bwa Maen, a big, beautiful eruption of strataed limestone that is dotted with signs promising much wrath to trespassers.

The most exciting thing that happened, other, of course, than Jonny's sending spree, was Sam climbing his second ever 7c, Fat Cat Roof (see photos above and below). He also flashed Launch Pad (7a), a neat vertical route. Amber climbed Poodle Traverse (6a) by fortuitous accident, and mostly just swung about on some jugs. 

A rather lovely day was had by all, goofing off in the sunshine whilst the rest of the UK languished under the clouds. The early onset of darkness sent us home prematurely and left us, once again, wanting so much more from this Welsh gem.