Chairman's Blog

by Joanna Mackintosh

Steam trains always invoke memories of yesteryear

On a sunny day, Blaenau Ffestiniog (not to be confused with it’s older and smaller neighbour, Ffestiniog – nowadays known also as Llan Ffestiniog, just to keep you guessing) is quite lovely, and the roads to it are superb for bikes (especially the newly repaired and resurfaced Crimea Pass from Betws-y-Coed).

Wonderful lake & mountain views

On a dull day however, I always feel that Steve Goulding’s nickname for the village – ‘Blind Festering Dog’ – seems quite apt! Luckily (mainly ‘cos we’re fair-weather bikers), we were there on a nice day and the scenery at the Lakeside Cafe* was superb. The cafe sits beside a lovely lake and is surrounded by mountains (the “Moelwyns”) – one of which has its own pumped-storage electricity-generating lake nestled within (right near the top).

We're not the only bikers aware of this place!

It was mid-afternoon when we got to the cafe – just in time to witness the regular steam train pootling past its back door -  and two of the items on the specials board had sold out.

We were temporarily disappointed, but we persevered and ordered alternatives. Jan and Dave had curries – one chicken, one beef – and I can’t comment on how they were. Perhaps Dave will report himself on whether they were worth having again?

Plenty of room - and plenty of choice

Nigel was going to have the all-day breakfast (for continuity) but followed my lead and ordered the omlette and chips. We were asked what we wanted in it and so had ham, cheese, mushrooms and tomatoes.

These came with curly fries but we had one with regular chips so we could compare. Both were excellent and the omlettes were delicious.

My omelette was delicious

As a very scenic food stop at the end (or mid point) of a great ride around the North Wales’ roads, and with pretty average prices, this place is highly recommended.

*Lakeside Cafe, Tanygrisiau, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Gwynedd LL41 3TP – tel: 01766830950