Overview
A circular tour of the southern end of Snowdonia National Park including Cadair Idris, quirky Portmeirion, formidable Harlech and balmy Barmouth. From mountain peaks to valleys, interesting towns and sandy beaches there is something for everyone from a seaside get away to hiking to everything for the adrenalin seeker.
Penygader
The starting point for a walk up Cadair Idris and a landscape created in the last Ice Age. Cwn Cau is an impressive amphitheatre holding the waters of Llyn Cau. The summit known as Penygadair has some great views. Embedded in the rugged hillside are the ruins of the Welsh fortress of Castell y Bere
Barmouth
Small seaside resort with a wide sandy beach stretching into the distance, a pretty harbour on the Mawddach estuary and the headland of Dinas Oleu overlooking the old town. A great base to explore the area by car or on foot.
Harlech
The massive walls of the castle arise from the top of its rocky outcrop with views over the town and Tremadog bay. The unspoilt golden sandy beach backed by dunes stretches for miles. At one time the castle was captured by Owain Glyn Dwr and home to a Welsh parliament.
Portmeirion
Made popular by the 1960’s TV series the Prisoner the quirky village overlooks the river Dwyryd. Designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis in the style of an Italian Riviera town it is now a major tourist destination because of its multi coloured buildings and 70 acres of forest and garden.
Blaenau Ffestiniog
Local slate made Blaenau the town that roofed the world. Travel the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland railway to Porthmadog or visit the LLechwedd underground slate caverns. The more energetic can try Bounce Below - suitable for ages 7 plus.
Capel Curig
The twin lakes, Llynnau Mymbyr are about 4 miles longs and drain into the River Llugwy at Capel Curig on its way to the Conwy Valley. The panorama of mountains, moorland and rushing streams and still lakes can excite the walker or watcher alike, whatever the weather.
Bala Lake
Bala is an historic market town with a strong Welsh identity. An area of mountains, valleys, forests, fast flowing rivers, waterfalls, lakes and reservoirs. The Tryweryn and Dee flow either side of Bala, creating Llyn Tegid – Wales’ largest natural lake. Whether it’s sailing, canoeing, on or off-road biking or hiking you’ll find an outlet for your interest here.
Dolgellau
The handsome, dark-stoned market town is set beneath Cader Idris, the legendary ‘Chair of Idris’, on the approach to the beautiful Mawddach Estuary. Take a short walk to the Cymer Abbey ruins or just a bit further to the 5 arch Llanelltyd bridge over the Afon Mawddach.
Also Nearby
