Day 36
Parys Mountain
First stop was an old copper mine complex, Parys Mountain. We were exploring the lower slopes when we got chatting to Zoe and Derrick out walking with their two daughters and wonderful black lab, reminded me of Bob and Toby, such fabulous dogs and much missed. Derrick was an absolute mine of information and told us we were on the wrong bit of Parys Mountain. After the chat we headed over to the main part, like Anglesey’s mini Grand Canyon, awesome.
He also explained about the strange church we saw near Bull Bay, Our Lady Star of the Sea and St Winefride. It was designed in the 1930s in the shape of an upturned boat and made in concrete. The stained glass windows apparently made from milk of magnesia bottles! The bromide works we saw yesterday, are hopefully going to be converted to an outdoor adventure centre, and the disused rail line heading south reinstated if the funding can be raised. Wonderful if so.
We then met another couple and daughter, with two dogs, Rooney and Aires, who were so interested in our trip. These encounters make such a difference to our day, so thanks very much!
Anglesey’s rolling hills are cycling heaven, and combined with great cycle paths and stunning views we were loving it. Then Komoot threw in a bit of Heaven and Hell. A grass covered downhill to Red Wharf Bay. Incredibly beautiful but no road at the bottom, just a sea-covered salt marsh flooded track of sorts. We backtracked and found an alternative route down which wasn’t a lot better but we part rode, part pushed through. The view was worth it. Uphill we found a stall selling homemade jams etc. We settled on pickled onions!
The hills got steeper and longer but all rideable, then we descended to Beaumaris. Stunning castle, apparently never finished, and then a final ride to our Warmshower hosts, Rog, Jan and dog Baloo. I’m proud to say we managed the steep climb to their wonderful house. Over a wonderful home-cooked dinner we shared their nervous excitement of the imminent arrival of their second grandchild. Zach arrived around 2am, and all was well!
Fabulous end to a fantastic day.
