WEEKEND 3 - WALES
Yr Wyddfa - Garnedd Ugain - Carnedd Llewelyn
Three mountains. Around 17 miles. Approximately 2,000m of ascent. The final weekend of my 3×3 Peaks Challenge raising money for the Stroke Association.
The Final Weekend
This final weekend brings the 3×3 Peaks Challenge to its conclusion.
Over two days, we'll climb Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Garnedd Ugain and Carnedd Llewelyn — Wales' three highest mountains — covering around 30 miles across the rugged landscapes of Eryri (Snowdonia). From rocky mountain paths and exposed ridges to long, demanding ascents and sweeping high-level plateaus, it's a fitting finale that will test both body and mind after three incredible weekends in the mountains.
This final weekend is dedicated to the Stroke Association. Every five minutes, someone in the UK has a stroke, and in an instant lives can be changed forever. In 2013 my brother-in-law, Barry, was out walking the dogs along the coastal path when he suffered a stroke. Thankfully, he was found by a neighbour who raised the alarm and contacted my sister before Barry was airlifted to hospital, where he spent several months recovering. Today, he continues to battle with limited mobility and impaired speech, while both he and his family adapt to the challenges of a very different life.
The Stroke Association helps stroke survivors and their families rebuild their confidence, regain their independence and navigate life after stroke. I'm taking on this challenge because no one should have to face that journey alone. By raising awareness and funds, I hope to help ensure more people receive the practical, emotional and life-changing support they need when it matters most.
Day 1
The final weekend begins with the climb up the Pyg Track to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). Unlike the other eight peaks, this is one I've climbed before and the only route of the entire challenge that's familiar to me. The last time I stood on the summit it was hidden beneath thick cloud and snow, so I'm hoping this visit finally delivers the incredible views across Eryri (Snowdonia).
From there we'll follow the rocky ridge across to Garnedd Ugain before descending via the Miner's Track, passing the beautiful lakes of Glaslyn and Llyn Llydaw on the way back to Pen-y-Pass. While it's perhaps the most familiar day of the challenge, it still demands respect, with long rocky ascents, exposed mountain terrain and a fitting final test before the last mountain awaits on day two.
Day 2
The final day takes us on an out-and-back route to the remote summit of Carnedd Llewelyn, Wales' third-highest mountain. Starting from Ogwen Cottage, we'll make a long, steady climb through the rugged Carneddau before reaching the broad summit plateau, where on a clear day the views stretch across Snowdonia, Anglesey and the Irish Sea.
Although there's very little scrambling compared with the previous day, the distance, sustained ascent and often exposed nature of the plateau can make this a deceptively demanding walk. After three weekends, nine mountains and countless miles on foot, reaching the summit of Carnedd Llewelyn will mark the successful completion of the 3×3 Peaks Challenge—a moment to reflect on an incredible journey while remembering the three charities and everyone who has supported me along the way.