Running in Wales

Just got back from one of the best runs in recent memory, along windy roads through the Welsh countryside. Started out uphill in the late afternoon, with a gray sky (what else is new?). The landscape is beautiful in a dull sort of way - muted browns, oranges, greens, and grays. Few trees. Rounded hills that look slumped, tired, worn. Stone walls that mark territory that have probably been standing for centuries. Unfazed sheep with neon spots on their backs to identify their herd. I climbed the hill, pushing myself to the top, panting and feeling the saturation that precedes sweat. As I eased over the hill, I found myself on a road leading towards another mountain, but this one looked different - it was black, cut up, and in shards. I arrived at the base of the hill several minutes later, and found that I was at the slate quarry trail. Wales is world-famous for its slate, the smooth, amazingly flat dark gray stones that are often used as roofing material. And this is where is was harvested. The entire hillside, maybe 400 meters up, was a loose pile of slate, with razor-sharp edges.

I slowed to a walk to check out the trail, and it led past old structures and cog rails associated with the quarry. I did a little prospecting myself, combing the piles for smooth pieces that I could take home. Hey, they sell this stuff for big prices in the giftshops, might as well cut out the middle man, right?

By now it was getting dark and I needed to get back. Once I was back on the road, a trail of orange streetlights marked my path, and lights from settlements in the distance flickered on. As I neared our lodge, I passed by an old church - moss-covered stones, faded stained glass, and a graveyard of toppled headstones in front. It was almost dark, making it all the more eerie. A little ways off, a family had gotten a head start on Guy Fawkes' Day, with a large bonfire lighting up the night. If you're looking for a good place for a horror movie, this was it. I enjoyed the air of mystery and intrigue a little longer, and went inside for a nice warm shower. Runs in new places are always a great way to see the area, and this time was no exception.