Snowdonia has it all. You’ll be spoilt for choice when picking a mountain to hike up, and the same goes when choosing a lake to take a stroll around. Wherever you decide, it’s pretty much guaranteed to be utterly stunning. Dreaming of getting back into Snowdonia post-lockdown? We have a list of some stunning scenic walks to make your decision of where to visit first a little easier. Remember to stay local until restrictions are lifted.
Our newest development The View apartments are located in Old Colwyn in the Conwy county – just a short drive from the National Park.
Drum & Foel Fras
Within the Carneddau range in Northern Snowdonia, lies Drum and Foel Fras – two incredible mountains next to one another. Here, you can enjoy both the views out to sea and deeper into the mountains; something which, very luckily, is rather common in North Wales.
You can either begin your walk from Llanfairfechan or Abergwyngregyn, Llanfairfechan having the steeper ascent, to begin with. From Abergwyngreyn, follow the road up to Aber Falls Nature Reserve, head over the bridge and up the road all the way. Here is a small gated car park with a stone the other side letting you know you are in the Carneddau.
Follow the path to the left and turn right before the pylons. Follow the path until you reach the sign, and naturally, go in the direction of Drum. Your route around both peaks should be relatively obvious from here, or you can drop into Anafon Valley from Drum to cut this lengthy walk shorter. It is just as stunning from the valley.
Marchlyn Circuit
The Marchlyn Circuit is a route which takes you over 2 smaller peaks before tackling Elidir Fawr, from the Marchlyn Mawr reservoir.
You begin by parking on a country road above the village of Deiniolen and heading up the road to the reservoir. You’ll be able to see the semi-circle of peaks around you – so make your way around from the left. You first take a steep ascent up Carnedd y Filiast, before following onto Mynydd Perfedd, and then onto Elidir Fawr.
Once up the first peak, the view just doesn’t stop. You’ll get a full 360 scope of Snowdonia, over to the neighbouring Ogwen Valley, the rest of the Glyderau, the Carneddau and even over to the Nantlle Valley.
Cwm Idwal
This walk is a little easier on the knees and more family-friendly – but still rewards you with just as dramatic and beautiful views.
Cwm Idwal is a cirque within the Glyderau range, and you begin your walk here from Ogwen cottage. Following the rocky path up to Llyn Idwal, you will be treated with trickling falls and streams, and most of the time, ponies too!
You can either take a walk around the lake and enjoy the mountains or follow up to devils kitchen if you’re after a scramble.
