Spectre HVS 5a, Clogwyn y Grochan
Alex Williams bridging up pitch two of Spectre HVS 5a Photo: Si Panton
Llanberis Pass remains ‘the’ magnet venue in North Wales; and it’s easy to understand why when you take a glance around. Wherever you look there is rock; crags and boulders of all shapes and sizes. The run of crags on the north side of the valley are particularly popular. Easy access, lots of sunshine and stacks of classic routes to go at – what’s not to like?
Clogwyn y Grochan is an intense sort of crag and it can feel a bit rude on an early season visit, but at least the gear tends to be good. And during the spring months when the rock is warmed by the sun there really is no finer place to be.
Spectre is a fantastic route with a lot of character. Like most HVSs on the Grochan it doesn’t give in easily, but it is not a nasty route, rather it rewards those who get stuck in. Get up there and give it a go – it’s a true classic!
