Visiting Snowdonia – a quick guide and some interesting history

Snowdonia is a mountainous region in the north-western reaches of Wales. While the Snowdonia National Park is a popular destination for many, the location of the area also provides many coastal towns and areas to visit.

What is Snowdonia famous for?

Where to begin? Its most impressive feature is undoubtedly Snowdon, the highest point in Wales (and England, too). You can take one of several routes to conquer the peak for yourself or take the easier route and hop on board the mountain train during the summer months (weather permitting).

How big is Snowdonia National Park?

The park covers 823 square miles, with towns, villages, trails, mountains, and much more within its area.

Get your walking boots on

One of the most popular activities in Snowdonia is walking. There are plenty of trails – including several to the peak of Snowdon – and lots that stick to lower levels too.

The official website for the area lists walks under four categories:

• Accessible walks for everyone (including wheelchair and scooter users)
• Leisurely walks
• Moderate walks
• Strenuous walks

Some of the leisurely walks take in several notable attractions in the park. You can visit the Llyn Trawsfynydd reservoir or witness the stunning Rhaeadr Cynfal waterfall. There are also details of the network of footpaths criss-crossing the area, including the Llyn Mair network of paths.

Meanwhile, if this is your first time in Snowdonia and you want to tackle an easygoing trail that stretches over nine miles, head for the Mawddach Trail. It may be long, but it is accessible for bikers and walkers, offering great accessibility and a chance to explore an old disused railway track, where only the track bed remains.

Top spots to visit in Snowdonia

There are plenty to choose from, but here are some top picks:

• Llanberis – while just a smidge outside the reaches of the park, Llanberis is an ideal place to stay while in the area. Close to the waters of Llyn Padarn, the village is also home to the station where trips on the mountain train begin, heading up to the summit of Snowdon.

• Harlech – head for Cardigan Bay and you’ll find the charming town of Harlech just waiting to be discovered. Perhaps not as famous as other destinations in the park, this is home to Harlech Castle, which dates from medieval times. Ideal for some spectacular photography with a mountain backdrop.

• Blaenau Ffestiniog – located in the heart of the region, this town was once famous as a slate producer. Strictly speaking it does not form part of Snowdonia National Park, but there are many reasons to visit when you are in the area. There are plenty of opportunities for walkers and climbers to test their skills.