Artist inspired by Tri Chopa Cymru (Three Peaks Wales) taking place on 10th May

The Welsh Three Peaks Challenge involves walking the mountains of Yr Wyddfa, Cader Idris and Pen Y Fan within a 24-hour window. It is a true test of endurance and stamina, taking in the rugged landscapes of Eryri and the steeply rolling sides of the Bannau Brycheiniog.

Participants travel from far and wide and thousands of pounds are raised for charity as adventurers, hikers, fitness fans and sports teams take part in this challenging and rewarding event.

Visit Wales describes this three peaks challenge as “… an unrivalled day of discovery, adventure and achievement”. But, above that, it describes the foremost reward of completing the challenge as: “Some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the world”.

Little wonder these peaks have inspired Welsh artist Lizzie Spikes to create a beautifully illustrated chart celebrating these spectacular elevations.

Lizzie has captured the majestic mountains in three different lights, much as the Tri Chopa participants will experience during their adventure. In the case of this artwork, starting with Yr Wyddfa in the North at dawn and watching the sun set from Pen y fan in the South.

The stunning depiction of the three mountains captures the atmosphere at various times of day, plus the beauty of the peaks and surrounding countryside. This would make a perfect memento for anyone who’s managed the mental and physical challenge and completed Wales’s Three Peaks, whether it’s someone completing the 24 hour challenge on May 10th or whether the peaks have been enjoyed at a more leisurely pace another time.

Lizzie said: “I admire the men and women undertaking the challenge on May 10th. It is not an easy landscape to navigate and, even in Spring, the weather and conditions can change quickly. Mind you, part of the beauty of the landscapes they will be adventuring in is taking in the terrains at different parts of the day. They should get to experience the beauty in a variety of lights and weathers (let’s hope not too much rain!) This was part of my inspiration for creating the illustration of these Tri Chopa. I love to walk in this part of Wales myself and experience the myriad of light, colours and moods that occur at different times of the day and in different seasons.”

The Tri Chopa collection is available from Driftwood Designs. It is part of a collection that features some of Lizzie’s striking and informative range of maps and charts. Covering subjects such as natural history, science and geography, they are illustrated and presented in ways that provide enjoyment as well as information.

Driftwood Designs Fine Art Prints are printed at The National Library in Aberystwyth.