Snowdonia Way - Day 1

Machynlleth to Dolgellau - 13.3 miles After a speedy 4.5h train ride, I started my journey from Machynlleth with a spring to my step. I remember taking a picture at the train station and posting a smiley face that I felt all the way to my toes. It started with pleasant views, tranquil villages, and road walking that quickly changed to stunning scenery, random houses, and ‘barely there’ paths 😁 loved it. This long-distance walk was so new (2017) that the signs were only a fairy-tale; the guidebook and Garmin GPS were my only proof that it was possible, legal, and real. People were few and far between, but I was more than happy walking at a leisurely pace, grinning at the sun, and taking pictures with the speed of light. There were a couple of ascents and gentle descents but one of them was very memorable for one single reason; it resulted in a straight slide into a small swamp with my left side completely submerged 😜. I don’t think I’ve ever got up as fast as in that very second 😊a super-fast sock change later I was as good as new. My odd-coloured socks entertained me for the rest of the day😂. My lunch spot was by a stream overlooking a small hill and surrounded by gently swaying trees; I could breathe again. Passing the slate mines was a shock to the system but so very fascinating but for some reason I really didn’t want to sneeze. Wild camping is really good fun .... once you find a nice hidden spot and get over the 'fugitive syndrome' 😉. I aimed for an early night as I knew tomorrow would be the longest day of my trip. A really great way to start another adventure.