September’s Long Walking group finally managed to complete the delayed Autumn Equinox week walk in rather lovely weather. The route had caused some prior concern involving potential weather related effects upon its viability which involved two crossings of the Afon Alun brook in the steep sided remote Caste upon Alun valley which was the central feature of the day. Concerns proved unfounded as Storm Agnes allowed the U3A a good day out. In fact the day revealed the attractions of the area with superb vistas in all directions. Some broken cloud just added to the autumnal feel. The six walkers assembled at the northern edge of St Brides and immediately ascended the grassy valley side, to a ridge which revealed the quarry landscape of this special area. Sadly the black Belted Galloway cattle with their distinctive white band did not show. This left at least one walker rather let down.
The path entered eye level ferns and the group safely descended the stone slabs, slippery after some light overnight rain. The valley road went under the magnificent Victorian Vale Rail bridge and easily and safely crossed the stepping stones. A road section led through dense woodland to another high point where the sunlit fortified 12C Ewenny Priory was spotted before the descent to Corntown. The group had set a good pace which was maintained throughout. A brief stop for hydration near the Baptismal Pool, was followed by a steady tramp up Heol y Cawl, through the higher fields to the Trig. point which is inscribed with dates of the most recent Royal Events and a Welsh Dragon of course.
Walkers then retraced a little of the outward leg, but varied it to cross meadows of long grass and remote farmsteads. A steep woodland path led to the railway level crossing which decanted us onto slippery rounded rocks and the ancient Clapper Bridge over the Alun.
The last road mile or so involved a mainly steady ascent via the sadly closed Coed y Bwl bluebell wood and then the group was again united with its cars after the steep grassy
downhill last 200mtrs. The newly managed Pelican Inn at Ogmore welcomed just four of walkers. The writer was pleasantly surprised at the attentive, rapid service of snacks and more, which were appreciated by the diners. Thankfully the day was another success for the days group of keen and capable walkers.’
The 8 mile undulating route was covered at a brisk, but comfortable pace; a testament to this group’s fitness’.