Team Training UK Conquers Cadair Idris – A Weekend in Dolgellau
Friday 23rd May
Our weekend adventure kicked off as we arrived in the charming Welsh town of Dolgellau, checking into the cosy Royal Ship Hotel. Some members made a cheeky detour en route, stopping off for a quick paddleboard on Bala Lake to get warmed up (or colder!) for the weekend ahead.
With bags dropped and rooms claimed, we hit the town to refuel and unwind. A few local watering holes were calling our name – the perfect way to power up (or wind down!) before tackling our big challenge the next morning: the mighty Cadair Idris.
Things got a little technical at one point, as Stephen whipped out his laptop mid-pub session – but a very different scene was playing out at the other end of the table with Lee and Matt, where things were definitely less spreadsheets and more shenanigans.
Saturday 24th May
Bright(ish) and early – depending on how lively the night before was – the team rallied for the climb. At 893 metres above sea level, Cadair Idris isn’t just a hill – it’s a beast. But if there’s one thing Team Training is up for, it’s a beast of a challenge.
We left the hotel with a steady warm-up walk through town before hitting the Fox’s Path. The route began with some steep grassland that offered us early views over the valley – picture-perfect stuff. As we climbed higher, we entered the cloud line and things got rockier underfoot. Then the real fun began: scree beds and scrambling all the way to the summit.
Reaching the top was a proud moment for all – and the bothy shelter gave us the perfect spot to rest, refuel, and soak in the sense of achievement (plus a few snacks).
The descent down the Pony Path was much gentler, giving our tired legs a break and letting the chat and laughter flow. Once at the bottom, we took a scenic detour around Llyn Gwernan and through the woods, heading back into town. Of course, a few well-earned pints at the hotel bar were in order – followed by a solid feed and a second attempt at making friends at Torrent Walk pub after the previous night’s antics.
Sunday 25th May
With our third fry-up in as many days inside us, some of the team weren’t quite done yet. We headed for the coast, starting in Fairbourne for a relaxing walk over the famous Barmouth Bridge into the seaside town of Barmouth. A round of ice creams kept morale high before we strolled back to Fairbourne and began our journey home – not without a final pit stop at Rhug Estate Farm Shop, of course.
These trips are what Team Training UK is all about. We’re more than just a gym – we’re a community, a family that keeps growing stronger with every adventure. You can have your Hyrox races and fitness events, but there’s nothing quite like “getting outside with ya mates.”
Plans are already underway for our next hike – and we welcome members old and new. If you’re keen to get involved, contact Team Training and let’s get you on board for the next one!
