Best things to do in Snowdonia National Park, North Wales

Snowdonia National Park offers some of the most breathtaking views in the UK and is the location of many popular things to do in North Wales.

The suggested activities outlined herewith makes two assumptions; you are in reasonably good condition as there is a degree of physical activity, and you travelling by car.

It is possible to take tours or even hike around Snowdonia National Park but it is far easier and quicker to travel by car. It also allows you to stop where you please and whip out the camera.

White Water Rafting – National White Water Centre 

Choose from a range of trips to suit your group, age is a big factor. Those looking for the bumpiest and wettest experience should  book a package involving the one miles runs down Upper Tryweryn’s biggest rapids.

A one hour session costs £35 per person and leaves you wanting to go again after two short runs. You can book an extended two hour session by hiring a whole raft for a fixed price.

For those with younger ones seeking a more relaxed trip, there is a Safari starting beyond the roughest rapids. The Safari takes you down to Bala Lake and lasts 4 hours, perfect for younger children.

You will get wet so come prepared with a towel and change of clothes so you can carry on your day.

The centre also provides canoeing and also has a camping site right next to it. You can book online here.

Cwm Idwal Walking Trail

Cwm Idwal walk provides some of the most striking mountainous scenery in Snowdonia and was chosen as a location for Guy Ritchie’s King Arthur: Legend of the Sword.

Getting a spot in the car park provided is a challenge and road running along Llyn Ogwen provides the perfect alternative.

Don’t be put off by the hikers with the all latest gear at the bottom, you can do this in a sturdy pair of trainers. Despite not needing hiking boots, be prepared to get your footwear dirty if there has been an occurrence of the famous Welsh rain in the past day.

Cwm Idwal Walking Trail

Heading up through the National Trust facilities you can choose a number of routes including one up to  ‘Devils Bridge’. Veering to the right will take you to a walking trail around the lake with a stunning back drop of protruding rock faces and rolling mountains. Once half way round the lake you understand why this was chosen as the setting for one of 2017’s blockbuster films.

The walk should take around 2-3 hours depending on the pace and whether you stop for a picnic.

For those wanting to experience a mountainous hike without too much of gradient or spend the eight hours it takes to get up and down Mount Snowden, this is perfect.

Find out more from the National Trust. 

Cwm Idwal Lake

Harlech Beach & Castle

There are two reasons to visit Harlech; the beach and the castle.

The Castle offers fantastic panoramic views of the lower lying land of Snowdonia between the sea and the hills to the east.

The sandy beach can be reached from a car park nestled behind the sand dunes that run along this stretch of coastline.

Harlech Beach

Harlech, while not spectacular in itself, is well worth visiting purely for the drive to and from the seaside castle to take in some of Snowdonia’s most spectacular views.

Coming in from the very north of Snowdonia you are treated with views prehistoric rock faces and sweeping valleys punctuated with tree lined lakes. To the south you drive along coastal roads where you stop at a tea room or pub.

Snowdonia’s Railways

Snowdonia’s railways are the most relaxed way to ascend to the peaks of mountain ridges and take in landscape.

Porthmadog is the start/end point for the Welsh Highand Railway to Caernarfon and the Ffestiniog route which heads east to the old mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog.

The Snowden Mountain Railway is a two and half hour journey to Snowden’s summit. The trip costs £29 for a return ticket in peak season and includes half an hour at the top before heading back down.

The train leaves from Llanberis and it is possible to buy a single ticket for those wanting to take on half the Mount Snowden hike. The service can be disrupted by high winds so this is worth checking. You can book online here for a £3.50 booking fee.

 

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