Walking in Snowdonia National Park
- Walk amidst the mightiest peaks of the Snowdonia National Park in North Wales
- Uncover the history of Wales including Gelert's Cave and its connections to a Welsh prince
- Discover hidden Llyn Crafnant on the edge of Gwydir Forest and the famous Swallow Falls
- A memorable ascent of Mount Snowdon the highest peak in England and Wales
- Riverside walk into the spectacular Abergaslyn Gorge through ancient and peaceful woodland
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Betws-y-Coed and OvernightArrive in Betws-y-Coed, described as the "Gateway to the Snowdonia National Park". It is easily accessible from Chester by train via Llandudno in approximately 1H35. You can also drive if you wish as there are 24H car parks in the town. If you arrive with time to spare perhaps take a little warm-up walk on one of the many trails around the town or through the heart of the beautiful Gwydir Forest, a magical setting. If you are missing any essential walking gear, you will find it here as Betws-y-Coed is a much-loved centre of the outdoors. Try one of the many restaurant's that provide locally-sourced produce.
A charming Victorian Guest House with a superb outlook over the village and the Conwy Valley. All six guest bedrooms have been newly decorated and upgraded and all have en-suites. In addition there is a superb outlook all around the house and from all of the rooms. You can also enjoy the views from the garden seating areas, which have been set out for the guests. there is free Wifi and all the rooms are well equipped and comfortable to ensure that you will have a good nights sleep.
Located in Betws-y-coed in the Gwynedd region, Oakfield Guest House offers accommodation with free private parking, wifi and a comfortable range of rooms with private bathroom facilities. Continental breakfast are offered and each room is equipped with tea and coffee making facilities along with a hairdryer and TV. The nearest airport is Anglesey Airport 61km away.
This former coaching Inn boasts scenic views of the Mountains of Snowdonia National Park, located in the picturesque village of Betws-y-Coed. The hotel offers comforable rooms with room service, free wifi and tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel has on site parking - bike storage and an onsite restaurant.
A short bus ride (15 mins) brings you to Capel Curig. From here you will ascend to Llyn Crafnant, a hidden gem missed by many visitors. It is a reservoir that is three quarters of a mile long and set at the northern end of the Gwydir Forest. At the head of the lake it could be argued that this is one of the finest views in North Wales. Then descend down to a trail alongside River Llugwy where you can view the spectacular Swallow Falls before heading into Betws-y-Coed.
Elevation gain/loss: +281m/-464m
A charming Victorian Guest House with a superb outlook over the village and the Conwy Valley. All six guest bedrooms have been newly decorated and upgraded and all have en-suites. In addition there is a superb outlook all around the house and from all of the rooms. You can also enjoy the views from the garden seating areas, which have been set out for the guests. there is free Wifi and all the rooms are well equipped and comfortable to ensure that you will have a good nights sleep.
Located in Betws-y-coed in the Gwynedd region, Oakfield Guest House offers accommodation with free private parking, wifi and a comfortable range of rooms with private bathroom facilities. Continental breakfast are offered and each room is equipped with tea and coffee making facilities along with a hairdryer and TV. The nearest airport is Anglesey Airport 61km away.
This former coaching Inn boasts scenic views of the Mountains of Snowdonia National Park, located in the picturesque village of Betws-y-Coed. The hotel offers comforable rooms with room service, free wifi and tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel has on site parking - bike storage and an onsite restaurant.
After a delicious and fortifying breakfast board the same Sherpa Snowdon bus as yesterday (30 min ride) bringing you to Pen-y-Pass. Descend slowly to the lush Gwynant Valley and then to the twin lakes of Llyn Gwynant and Llyn Dinas, both nestled among the wooded foothills south of Mount Snowdon. Upon arrival in the small mountain village of Beddgelert, why not treat yourself to a delicious ice cream (Cadwalader's if possible, Wales' own homemade icecream).
Elevation gain/loss: +56m/-380m
Plas Tan y Plas Tan y Graig is an award winning family run B&B Guest House with hotel quality rooms located in the centre of Beddgelert. There are five large comfortable en-suite rooms to choose from with stunning mountain and river views. Experience our their warm hospitality, high quality service and room comfort. A full menu breakfast is included.
This is a former Welsh manor house dating back from 1644. Located in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, just a short walk away from the picturesque village of Beddgelert.
All rooms are equipped with en-suite facilities, Egyptian cotton linen bedding, goose down and feather quilts,tea and coffee making facilities, complimentary toiletries, hairdryer, and radio alarm.
Bryn Eglwys was built as a farm house, a short stroll from the heart of the historic, alpine village of Beddgelert. With elevated 360 views and boasting probably one of the best vistas in North Wales.
As well as walking up Moel y Dyniewyd, you will also pass through the spectacular Aberglaslyn Gorge and past Gelert's Grave, which legend says is named after a dog called Gelert that belonged to the medieval Welsh prince, Llywelyn the Great. From the top of Moel y Dyniewyd (on a good day) there are spectacular views over Snowdon and other mountain ridges.
Elevation gain/loss: +399m/-395m
Plas Tan y Plas Tan y Graig is an award winning family run B&B Guest House with hotel quality rooms located in the centre of Beddgelert. There are five large comfortable en-suite rooms to choose from with stunning mountain and river views. Experience our their warm hospitality, high quality service and room comfort. A full menu breakfast is included.
This is a former Welsh manor house dating back from 1644. Located in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, just a short walk away from the picturesque village of Beddgelert.
All rooms are equipped with en-suite facilities, Egyptian cotton linen bedding, goose down and feather quilts,tea and coffee making facilities, complimentary toiletries, hairdryer, and radio alarm.
Bryn Eglwys was built as a farm house, a short stroll from the heart of the historic, alpine village of Beddgelert. With elevated 360 views and boasting probably one of the best vistas in North Wales.
Today's walk begins by walking through the forest above the village towards Rhyd Ddu. You may well see steam trains on the Welsh Highland Railway working hard to climb this steeply graded line through a series of horseshoe bends.
After Rhyd Ddu the scenery opens out and the path takes the western flank of Snowdon, ascending steadily to Bwlch Maesgwn, the col that separates Snowdon from Mount Eilio. At 467 metres this is the highest point on the walk so far. From here it’s a steady downhill walk to the village of Llanberis at the foot of Snowdon.
Elevation gain/loss: +559m/-488m
Erw Fair Guest House is a charming Victorian house conveniently situated centrally on Llanberis High Street. Erw Fair, pronounced Air-oo Vire, is an 18th Century former slate manager's home. It provides an ideal base to explore the area or relax in the heart of Snowdonia. The dining room, sun lounge and utility room are open all day for guest use.
Elegant Victorian Guest house nestled in Dyffryn Peris valley in Snowdonia National Park. Breakfasts and evening meals are available as well as transfers and pick ups (upon arrangement) as well as nearby parking.
The Padarn Hotel is situated at the foot of Snowdon in Llanberis and is surrounded by the Snowdonia National Park. There is 18 rooms available with Free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms and tea and coffee making facilities. There is also parking available, with 2 electrical vehicle charging points.
A relatively short circular walk around Llyn Padarn at the foot of Snowdon offers a more relaxing day before your mountain ascent of Snowdon tomorrow. The trail at times follows the lakeside path, with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains before heading back to Llanberis through the historic slate quarries.
Finish your walk at the excellent (and free) National Slate Museum. This is well worth a visit to see the demonstration of slate splitting and the atmospheric miner's cottages.
Elevation gain/loss: +177m/-177m
Erw Fair Guest House is a charming Victorian house conveniently situated centrally on Llanberis High Street. Erw Fair, pronounced Air-oo Vire, is an 18th Century former slate manager's home. It provides an ideal base to explore the area or relax in the heart of Snowdonia. The dining room, sun lounge and utility room are open all day for guest use.
Elegant Victorian Guest house nestled in Dyffryn Peris valley in Snowdonia National Park. Breakfasts and evening meals are available as well as transfers and pick ups (upon arrangement) as well as nearby parking.
The Padarn Hotel is situated at the foot of Snowdon in Llanberis and is surrounded by the Snowdonia National Park. There is 18 rooms available with Free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms and tea and coffee making facilities. There is also parking available, with 2 electrical vehicle charging points.
The big one! After a hearty breakfast the day starts with a short bus ride (10 mins) to Pen-y-Pass high on the mountainside. From here take the famous Pyg track as it climbs steadily past the glacial lakes heading for the summit. After around 3 hours of ascending you will reach the summit and proudly become the highest person in Wales and England! Descend via the more gently-graded Llanberis path, and celebrate your achievement with a well-deserved drink in one of the village pubs on arrival in Llanberis.
This big mountain walk is best completed in good weather. If the forecast is more favourable you may wish to climb Snowdon on Day 6 instead.
If you do not wish to walk up Snowdon or the weather prohibits it, you can take the Welsh Highland Railway steam train to the top.
Elevation gain/loss: +621m/-878m
Erw Fair Guest House is a charming Victorian house conveniently situated centrally on Llanberis High Street. Erw Fair, pronounced Air-oo Vire, is an 18th Century former slate manager's home. It provides an ideal base to explore the area or relax in the heart of Snowdonia. The dining room, sun lounge and utility room are open all day for guest use.
Elegant Victorian Guest house nestled in Dyffryn Peris valley in Snowdonia National Park. Breakfasts and evening meals are available as well as transfers and pick ups (upon arrangement) as well as nearby parking.
The Padarn Hotel is situated at the foot of Snowdon in Llanberis and is surrounded by the Snowdonia National Park. There is 18 rooms available with Free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms and tea and coffee making facilities. There is also parking available, with 2 electrical vehicle charging points.
This morning depart from Llanberis. You can reach Bangor by bus in 1H and then Chester by train in 1H20.
Other Information
Is it for me?This holiday is for those who love walking amidst sensational mountain views and dramatic landscapes. A tour in the mountains, but with moderate walks, that take you within the mountains, alongside lakes and rivers, to pretty villages with the discovery of Welsh history at every turn. You can ascend Snowdon if you wish, which is rated as moderate to strenuous, but this is purely optional.
Classic Routes | If you’re the active, outdoorsy type, who’s interested in taking on the great routes of the world or looking for a challenge, then our Classic Routes are for you. We’re talking the West Highland Way, Tour Du Mont Blanc and the Passau to Vienna Danube Cycle Path, to name but a few!
Multi Centre Walking | With a mix of loop and point-to-point walks stay 2 or 3 nights in one place which offers the chance to slow down and really explore a destination.
Solo Travellers
As a guide, we would suggest that the minimum age of traveler this tour would be suitable for is: 17 Years
On this tour you will be walking in Snowdonia National Park and along mountain trails, wooded and lakeside routes. You can enjoy stunning mountain views. Sometimes you will walk at a lower level, but at times higher up, where there could be some snow at the beginning and end of the season. We have rated this tour as moderate as generally the walks are not too difficult, but some days do have elevation gains and losses. You will need to be an active and fit person to enjoy the walks on this tour. We have tried to balance the harder walks with easier walks in between where possible. The day before the Snowdon summit is the easiest walk on the tour as it will give you a chance to simply have a more relaxing day before you ascend Mount Snowdon. The walk up Snowdon is rated moderate to strenuous and ultimately is physically demanding.
On this tour we will book you into handpicked B&B's, guest houses and at times. small hotels. They are comfortable and clean with great breakfasts and a very warm welcome.
If you are going to book the Escape to Snowdonia tour, please be aware that it is challenging to confirm 1-night stays in Beddgelert on Friday and Saturday nights. Therefore if you have the flexibility it would be advised to try and secure your booking so that you avoid your start date being on Thursdays or Fridays.
Single Rooms & Solo Walkers
If you require single rooms we would be happy to accommodate you although there is a single room supplement payable.
We welcome solo walkers on this tour, although you should, of course, take extra care in the outdoors and particularly in the mountains when walking solo and you must have the ability to read a map and compass.
Meals
A hearty breakfast is included each morning. Most guesthouses and B&B’s offer a cooked breakfast, which should keep you going for the day.
Lunch and dinner are not included so you are free to choose from the available options. Most of your accommodations will be more than happy to provide a packed lunch on request and this can be booked on arrival. Dinner is available either at your accommodation or nearby pubs and restaurants.
The trails you will follow on this tour very, between way-marked and unwaymarked. However navigation will be straightforward as you can use the Macs Adventure Smartphone App which has maps and the GPS tracks. Simply download the GPS tracks for offline use and follow the route on your phone with the assurance that navigation on this tour will be made simple and you cannot get lost. You will find more information on downloading the app in your Macs Adventure Account.
- Overnights in B&B's, guest houses, small hotels
- Breakfasts
- Luggage Transfers
- Detailed Information Pack
- GPX tracks and access to our GPS Macs Adventure smartphone app
- OS Snowdon Map
- 24/7 telephone support from our UK office
- Travel Insurance (required)
- Travel to Betws-y-Coed
- Travel from Llanberis
- Local buses to the beginning of walks
- Lunches, dinners, snacks & drinks
- Taxi transfers or public transport should you need to skip a stage
- Personal equipment
- Additional Nights, before, during or after the walk
This walking tour can be booked between April and October. The weather in Snowdonia can be quite cool and unpredicable at any time of year, so you should always be prepared with the right gear. Autumn can be a great time to walk as the path will not have as many people walking on it as the summer months. Spring and early summer are best times to see the flora and fauna along the way.
Walking at high levels in Snowdonia National Park means the weather may be very unpredictable. Walking up Mount Snowdon in particular can be hazardous in bad weather and should not be undertaken lightly or at all. It will be very important for you to keep your eye on the forecast. You can visit the following website for more information, Mountain Forecast. If the weather is due to be awful on the day you are scheduled to walk up Snowdon we suggest switching the walk with the Padarn Circular.
Betws-y-Coed It is easily accessible from Chester by train via Llandudno in approximately 1H35. In turn Chester is accessible from London, Manchester and Liverpool by train. So you can fly into any of the major UK airports and then carry on to this destination by rail. For more information on times and schedules please access the National Rail website. You can also drive if you wish as there are 24H car parks in the town. The cost varies, but on average its about £5 per day. You can find more information here. To get back to Bews-y-Coed from Llanberis at the end of your tour you can take a bus which takes approximately 40 mins. You can find more information on the Gwynfor Coaches website.
From your final destination, Llanberis, take a bus to Bangor. This journey takes approximately 1H. From Bangor you can access Chester by train in about 1H20.
If you have parked your car in Betws-y-Coed at the beginning of your tour, you can return there by bus in about 1H. For more information on bus and train timetables please go to the following websites - Gwyn For Coaches and National Rail.
We can also provide transfers for you. Please ask your Adventure and Destination Specialist for more details.
Your bags will be transferred from your accommodation as per your itinerary and moved onto your next overnight accommodation. We ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to 20kg per person.
It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity and emergency evacuation and hospital care.
Why Macs
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Positive Impact
At Macs, we don’t do tour buses, groups, or guides. Instead, we give you the freedom and confidence to have your own self-guided hiking or biking adventure.
This is active travel led by you.
You choose your departure date and who you travel with, we do the rest.
We sort accommodation and luggage transfers and provide your route in an easy-to-use app.
We give you everything you need to travel independently but we're here 24/7 if you need us.
Getting from A to B under your own steam is intensely rewarding. With Macs, you'll see the world, and yourself, differently.
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