This is a weekend of hiking in Wales for beginners and those wanting a taste of mountain walking. During your hike you will be supported by experienced and approachable leaders who will help and guide you.
Our mission is to ascend Pen-y-Fan, the highest mountain in South Wales. It sits in a spectacular horseshoe of surrounding hills. We will use the route with the gentlest gradient. It’s 7.5 miles (12.0km) and there is 650m of ascent. We will take plenty of stops and hopefully complete it in about 6 to 7 hours.
You don’t have to be an athlete but you need a basic level of fitness such as being able to walk 5 miles in 2 hours on the flat and able to climb stairs easily
It’s more than just walking. It’s a chance to try something new together while picking up skills. You can enjoy the nature and landscape and we want you to feel you have achieved a challenge. It’s designed to feel approachable whether you come with others or by yourself. And we hope you will go home with some great photos and memories.
If you want more information before you book please join us at a Zoom meeting on 14 May at 7.30pm. Email Helen, the region walking adviser on walkingadviser@girlguidinglaser.org.uk for the Zoom link. Alternatively send any questions by email to the same address.
Assistant Walk Leader places
If you already have experience, we invite you join as an assistant walk leader at a reduced cost of £30. You will be responsible for managing a small group on the hill and navigating supported by Helen, the region adviser, who will take overall responsibility. Up to four assistant walk leader places will be allocated from the pool of applicants based on their prior experience. It will be an advantage if you have previously attended Girlguiding walking events and spent time in the hills. You do not need to hold a walking qualification. You may be able to claim expenses including travel up to a maximum of £50. The closing date for applications is 11pm on 30 June and we will let you know if your application was successful by 10 July. Apply to be an assistant walk leader here.
Who is this event for?
Leaders, leaders in training, advisers and volunteers. In the event of oversubscription we will prioritise applications from members who have not previously attended a region walking weekend.
Transport
Please arrange your own transport. We will set up a WhatsApp groups where lift offers can be exchanged. You may need to get yourself to a suitable pick up point which is convenient for the driver. It is most likely that you can get a lift, but we can’t guarantee it. Station pick ups are possible from Abergavenny.
Meals
The following meals are included in the cost of the event: Saturday and Sunday breakfast, Saturday and Sunday packed lunches and Saturday dinner. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be available throughout. Dietary requirements will be catered for if you let us know in advance.
Kit
You will need appropriate clothing for going walking, with comfortable, warm and waterproof clothing plus walking boots. Further details will be sent in the joining instructions and you can ask questions at the Zoom meeting on 14 May.
Cost includes dormitory accommodation with bunk beds and pillows. You will need to bring your own sheets/duvet/sleeping bag, pillowcase and towel.
Venue information
Penstar Bunkhouse is a converted barn on a farm at the foot of Pen-y-Fan. There is a fully equipped kitchen, ample living space with underfloor heating and a drying room.
Grid reference SO 009 254
Any questions?
Feel free to contact Helen, Girlguiding London and South East England walking adviser on walkingadviser@girlguidinglaser.org.uk
