Snowdonia: between sea and sky
An intrepid group of members and non-members of the Snowdonia Society made the boat crossing to Ynys Enlli (Bardsey Island) last Sunday 2 July for a very special day on the iconic island.
As sea spray hit the bow of Colin’s lemon-yellow boat, puffins, razorbills and guillemots in their hundreds were seen bobbing and flying about the waves. After 20 minutes crossing the swnt (sound in Welsh), the group alighted the island and were greeted by the sound of a colony of grey seals howling like wolves, sunning themselves on rocks near the harbour.
Once on land, the group stopped for a welcome cup of coffee at the tearoom and set off with local naturalist Haf Meredydd for a tour of the island’s history, buildings and ecology. Lunch was eaten sitting on a cliff in the purple heather, looking out towards the mainland of Pen Llŷn (Llŷn Peninsula) where Haf retold stories of former monks sailing across the sea in home-made coracles.
Looking towards the mainland gave a completely different view of our wonderful Welsh mountains which, framed by the sea and sky, was a visual reminder of the importance of protecting and celebrating the fantastic natural and cultural heritage of Snowdonia.
The Snowdonia Society is very grateful to Haf and Colin for making this such a special day, and to those who joined for the trip.
Images below, clockwise from top left: On the lookout for seabirds; grey seals sunning themselves ashore; the Enlli tea ‘room’; a group of guillemots; a traditional Welsh fisherman’s cottage; an unlikely shade spot for a sun-tired sheep!
Photo credits: Peter Smith 2017, Owain Thomas 2017
Did you know that 2017 marks the Snowdonia Society’s 50th anniversary?
As part of our birthday celebrations we have a whole host of events this year – Have a look at our online calendar HERE and be sure to take part in our other anniversary events for 2017. We look forward to seeing you very soon.
Not a member? Click HERE to join the Snowdonia Society and to help us protect the national park for the future.
