PEOPLE in Wales are being invited to step out with the Ramblers during its annual Festival of Winter Walks and leave footprints in the snow as they explore the country’s beautiful wintry landscapes. Ramblers Cymru groups will be leading free walks from December 20 2014 until January 4 2015. From short festive strolls passing carol singers and Christmas markets to heartier rambles to walk off the mince pies and kickstart new year’s resolutions, there’s something for everyone in Wales to enjoy.

Ramblers Cymru Director, Angela Charlton, said: “Walking is great at any time of the year, we’re spoiled by our dramatic coastlines, rolling hills and stunning views, but there’s nothing quite like wrapping up warm and heading out with family and friends to explore Wales at its wintry best.

Our walks during the festival are free, fun and open to everyone, so put on your hat and scarf and join us as we head out into the crisp, clear winter to enjoy the season the way we know best, on our feet.” Let’s Walk Cymru, a national health walking scheme run by Ramblers Cymru, will also be leading short, free walks across Wales during the festival. Step out with Ramblers Cymru on one of the following free winter wanders in Wales during the Festival of Winter Walks:

Mince Pie Walk, Great Orme Date: Saturday December 20 Start time: 10am Distance: 7 miles Description: Join the Vale of Clwyd Ramblers for this Mince Pie Walk in Great Orme. Starting point: Llandudno, West Shore Group: Vale of Clwyd

Pen y Fan (Brecon Beacons) at night with Gower Society Date: Saturday December 20 Meeting time: 3pm Start time: 4pm Distance: 6 miles Description: This short, circular night-walk, run in partnership with the Gower Society, will climb to the top of Pen y Fan then over to Tommy Jones’ memorial and back. This is a night walk so remember to bring head torches and fresh batteries. Due to the time of year, this walk will be dependent upon reasonable weather so if in doubt, check with walk leader Ian Smith on 01792 368609 on the morning of the walk. Starting point: Between Guildhall & Victoria Park Group: Swansea

Boxing Day Walk: Pwll Du, Brandy Cove & Langland Bay Date: Friday December 26 Start time: 10am Distance: 7 miles Description: Starting in Newton, this winter walk crosses Clyne Common then heads on to Murton, Bishopston Valley and Pwll Du Bay. Enjoy beautiful views from the Wales Coast Path as you head via Brandy Cove and Langland Bay back to the start. Starting point: Highpool Lane, Newton Nearest postcode: SA3 4TZ Group: Swansea

On Par for Mountain Views (in the Amman Valley, Garnant) Date: Saturday January 3 2015 Start time: 11am Distance: 6 miles Description: This walk heads up past Garnant Golf Course for some great views of the western edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park, following a series of footpaths along the southern side of the Amman Valley. The route heads back to the starting point through Garnant Park, following the River Amman. Starting point: The car park on Upper Station Road, Garnant. Turn north down the hill into Upper Station Road (opposite Garnant Chemist). After going over the level crossing at the bottom of this short hill, take the second turning on the left into the car park (approximately 50 metres after the level crossing) Group: Swansea

Gower: Whiteford Point Date: Sunday January 4 2015 Meeting time: 9am Start time: 10.15am Distance: 8 miles Description: A varied walk over hills and across beach and dunes in Gower. Make sure you bring your binoculars as birdlife is abundant during the winter. Meeting point: Tesco Ammanford Group: Dinefwr