28. Day Ten in Llwyngwril: Steam Train to Blaenau Ffestiniog
After the fun of the Talyllyn steam train experience, I decided “Why not do a larger one up into Snowdonia?” So I did! I took the Mountain Spirit train up to the quarry town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. The first part of the journey was getting to Porthmadog, from whence the train departs.
Another day, another train ride!That sky says it all! Anything can happen.It did make me happy to see some sunshine.
I got to Porthmadog early enough to grab some breakfast. I walked some ways to a place I thought was in the direction of the station, had a lovely breakfast, but realized halfway through the meal that I had mistaken which station to depart from. The two were on opposite ends of town. Fortunately, it’s a pretty small town! But I had to quick-step, which diminished my enjoyment of the really cute little town of Porthmadog.
Arrived a little bit before the train did. Really enjoyed the vibe of a steam train station!What a beautiful creature! Somewhat larger than the Talyllyn train.The carriages were comfortable and kind of posh. Looking into First Class.Heading out of Porthmadog. Industry! Slate quarry, but not sure which one. Not many left in Wales these days.Crappy shot of a waterfall.Second crappy shot of the waterfall, but with more rhododendrons.
Mountains of slate.Blaenau Ffestiniog, the town that slate built. And is also built of slate.Enjoyed a quick walk through this charming little town up in the hills of Snowdonia.A very acceptable lunch.V. trad shot of our steam engine, steaming along.Tan-y-Bwlch station. Everything is tiny!Trawsfynydd nuclear power station, decommissioned but majestic nonetheless. I thought it was a castle at first glance. Little village literally nestled in the valley.This little llyn. Looks like a resort. There is so much texture and beauty in Wales. It was lovely to see it from this perspective, i.e., from a train!
An absolutely delightful day. I met a lovely couple and their very good baby, got in lots of walking in Porthmadog (although I did not have the wherewithal to go to the Purple Moose Brewery, my one regret of the day). But as always, lovely to get home to my little cottage on the rail and the sea.
Debkakes in the UK 2022 
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