The SCCC Weekend in Leicester was about the same time as Andy’s Birthday. As soon as he had completed the SCCC Club Weekend – Leicester Long Ride, it was time to climb into the car and head off for Andy’s Birthday trip. He wanted North Wales, so off we went to Llandudno.

Monday was actually Andy’s birthday and he wanted to visit the Welsh Mountain Zoo in Colwyn Bay. He even said that he wanted to cycle there and back, so that is what we did! We set off along the coastline, taking in the sea views.

It was then time to turn away from the sea and start climbing up to the Welsh Mountain Zoo, which is at the top of a rather steep hill.

When we asked about cycle parking, they said that no one ever cycles there! However, they were able to recommend a suitable place where we could lock them up safely.

Our first stop was at the cafe for a cuppa – unfortunately, they had no gluten-free cake. Then it was time to go and have a look around.

We were able to get really close to the penguin pool. Andy really likes penguins and so was pleased that we had the pool to ourselves and spent ages watching them swimming around.

Being at the top of a steep hill did mean that there were some great views. On the day we were there it was also really windy!

As well as the animals there were lots of nice flowers around.

When we first found the bears, they were hiding in the back but we did eventually get to see them.

The highlight of the day, and the main reason that Andy wanted to go, was to see the penguin parade.

Once the parade was over, we continued looking around.

After a late lunch, which was a very limited option for something both veggie and gluten free, we set off and cycled back to Llandudno. Generally following the same round that we had gone earlier.

Having put the bikes back in the car, we found a great cafe for tea and cake, called Love to Eat @OneTwoOne.

We hadn’t realised how late in the day it was.

After a bit of a walk around, it was time to go for Andy’s birthday tea. We found an Italian Restaurant called Romeo in Llandudno. It is now our favourite place to eat there! The food was great and the staff were all helpful and friendly.

The following day started out with a long run for me. Andy did the first half with me and we ran around the Great Orme on the toll road.

As we reached the Great Orme Tramway station back in Llandudno, Andy’s run came to an end and I continued on as the training plan said I needed an extra 50 minutes.

I ran along the bay and then back again.

I then ran across to the other shore and as I was heading back again, Andy came past on his bike. Apparently, he had got his bike out of the car and then cycled around the toll road again whilst I was finishing my run.

At the end, we just had time for a shower and change before we had to check out of the Travelodge where we had been staying.  We went to a cafe called the Lemon Tree Tearooms where we had a great breakfast! They had plenty of gluten-free options.

After some shopping and some wandering around in Llandudno, it was time for a late lunch before heading back home. We managed to find yet another place that we had not been to before – The Cottage Loaf pub. It was another nice place to eat.

All in all, it had been a great few days away. Unfortunately, we had to head back home ready for work the following day but we will certainly be back again soon!
Our route to the zoo was:

Our route back from the zoo was: