Still Waters

Still waters run deep,
Reflecting an azure sky.
Calm my troubled heart.

Llyn Llech Owain

This upland lake is the centrepiece of a Country Park near Cross Hands in South Wales.

The lake has many legends associated with it. One revolves around Sir Lancelot, of King Arthur’s Round Table fame. Another concerns the Twrch Trwyth or Wild Boar from the legend of Culhwch ac Olwen which appeared in the Welsh folk tales, The Mabinogion.

Being an upland lake, it is surrounded by peat bog and rests on limestone. This has created the circumstances where no fish can survive in the water.

The lake has been known to freeze over during winter, although skating is not recommended as the ice is not very deep.

The Country Park itself includes gentle, secluded walks which provide a great opportunity for solitude and meditation, and the location allows reasonable views of the surrounding countryside. There is a visitor centre, which houses a display telling the story of the park. The upper floor is a hide for bird watchers. The park rangers often run activities for young people to learn about the park and the environment.

Last time I was there, the car park area included a café and a children’s play area.

As you can see, I enjoyed visiting all year round.

Last of the Rowan Berries

I believe these are Rowan Berries. I’m not brilliant at identifying flora and fauna. They are also showing signs of age. But they caught my attention because of the colour contrast.

I hope you like it.

Bedd Gelert

River flowing by.

Trees, a stately canopy.

Peaceful autumn time.

Brecon Canal Bridge

This bridge over the canal at Brecon formed a very nice frame for the barges beyond.

Nant Gwernol

Strictly speaking, this is not Talyllyn Railway. But when you ride the steam train along the narrow gauge track up the valley to the end of the line, where the quarrymen disembarked for their day’s work, there are walks through the woods around Nant Gwernol.

The railway has been preserved and is run by volunteers. It is well worth a visit.

Porthcawl, South Wales

Nikon D60, f/22 18 seconds

I did not have my tripod with me when I came across this beautiful night-time view across Sandy Bay, Trecco Bay, and across to Ogmore-by-Sea. So I rested my camera on the sea wall and let tried several exposure times. I just love the effect.

Yorkshire Dales

This was the summer of 2010. The fields of the Yorkshire Dales were at their best.

Tree in a Field

I used to pass this tree every day going to and from work. One day, the light was just right as the traffic lights turned red and I had just enough time to grab the photo. Originally in colour, I feel it has a much better mood in black and white.

Pen y Fan – Brecon Beacons

Pen y Fan

Pen y Fan may not be the highest of peaks but it is easily accessible. And beautiful all year round.