Taff Trail, Castell Coch and Caerphilly Mountain
8 people attending
12 places left
Starting off from Radyr train station, we will make our way up the Taff Trail, through Tongwynlais, to Castell Coch; a 19th Century Gothic Revival castle which has a history stretching back to Norman times and has been used more recently in the filming of a number of television programmes.
We'll continue along the Taff Trail, past Taff's Well and upto the top of Craig yr Allt; which offers views south towards Cardiff and and north towards Pontypridd. We'll follow the Taff Ely Ridge Walk along to Caerphilly Common before making our way back through the woods down to Radyr.
What to bring
For your comfort and safety please be prepared for the anticipated weather and the terrain of the walk - keep in mind the following:
Boots: Hiking boots that are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support, are important as soon as you encounter any mud. Cross trainers may suffice in good weather and flat routes.
Socks: Proper walking socks keep your feet dry, and help prevent blisters.
Walking Trousers: will be more comfortable. No Jeans which can be are heavy and cold when wet. From April to October shorts are usually a better bet.
Waterproof Over-Trousers: essential in any significant rainfall. Breathable ones are best.
Layered clothing: allows you to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature. E.g. a base layer or a cotton T-Shirt; a mid layer like a micro fleece, or a rugby type thick shirt, and in cooler weather an outer layer consisting of a windproof jacket or a thick fleece.
Waterproof Jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather. You get what you pay for with these. Breathable fabrics are advisable.
Hat: essential both in mid winter to preserve heat and in summer to prevent sunburn and heatstroke.
Gloves: essential in frosty weather.
Small Rucksack: One that is comfortable to wear is essential so that you can use your arms freely. Place valuables in water proof bags inside.
Sunglassses and Sunscreen: April- Sept: comfortable sunglasses enhance your pleasure and keep insects out of the eye. Sunscreen is a must
Water: even in winter one can loose a litre or more of fluid by perspiration. If you fail to make this up you'll get dehydrated which can lead to headaches and other problems. A hydration bladder is easier to use than bottled water, but higher maintenance.
Food: a packed lunch will be required unless otherwise stated. In addition carry energy bars or similar to counter 'sugar lows'.
Medicines: If you have allergies, are diabetic, or have minor ailments don't forget these!
Extras to consider: A change of shoes as your boots may get muddy and a bag to put your boots into. If the weather is wet, it is worth considering bring a change of clothing to leave in the car or at least a change of trousers as your walking trousers may get muddy.
Food & drink
You will need to bring a packed lunch and snacks to last you through the day and at least a litre of water for hydration.
There may be a pub stop along the route.