Beddgelert, Snowdonia walking and hiking trails

Known as the adventure capital of Europe, Snowdonia National Park (Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri) is home to many famous Snowdonia walks suitable for all abilities. While Mount Snowdon is the perfect destination to unleash your inner explorer, there are countless Snowdonia walking routes to discover on your trip. 

As well as the spectacular Snowdonia hiking trails, often referred to as some of the best in the UK. If you’re looking to book a forest escape to Beddgelert here are our recommendations for exploring this wild and untamed corner of Wales.

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Uncover the legend of Gelert’s Grave

Instantly immerse yourself in the mythology of Beddgelert village with the popular Gelert’s Grave Walk. This circular route is Snowdonia walking at its most beautiful, taking you from the centre of Beddgelert village to the spot that marks Gelert’s grave. 

An easy 1.6km, the 40-minute walk follows the Glaslyn River and offers stunning views of the village and Snowdonia mountains beyond. You’ll also be able to discover the tragic story of how Beddgelert acquired its name before crossing the river back to the village. Here you can unwind with a pit stop at one of the many local tea rooms or restaurants. 

Famous Snowdonia walks on your doorstep

There’s no need to venture far for an authentic Snowdonia walking experience.

From your cabin, simply cross the Welsh Highland Railway line at the crossing. Then enter Beddgelert Forest where you can explore meandering trails and discover tumbling waterfalls.

From here you can also climb through the foothills of Moel Hebog (bare hill of the hawk) to the hidden waters of Llyn Llewelyn.

Remember the trail to Llyn Llewelyn is a challenge and sturdy walking boots are essential. And don’t forget to make time for a rest at the tranquil lakeside picnic area for a glimpse of breath-taking views across the valley.

Unbeatable mountain views

In search of a challenge? From your cabin walk to Beddgelert or Rhyd Ddu, following the way-marked Lon Gwyrfai Path. On this Snowdonia walking route you’ll find the path is wide and steep in places but the panoramic views more than make up for it. 

You can choose to walk to Beddgelert village which is a 30 minute walk away. Or head 5.2km in the other direction to take in the sights at the pretty village of Rhyd Ddu. 

Our tip? Around 20 minutes into the route, stop at the viewpoint for a breathtaking view of Mount Snowdon (yr Wyddfa) and other mountains such as Yr Aran and Cnicht. 

Nestled at both ends of the trail are welcoming local pubs and cafes. And if you don’t want to walk back from either direction, you can catch the steam train or the Sherpa bus back to your cosy forest cabin. 

A longer Snowdonia walk

This Snowdonia walk starts at the Gelert’s Grave and Riverside Walk in Beddgelert village. Along the riverside, a gate carved with two fish depicts the start of the Fisherman’s Path. 

The walk is a 10km round route and takes 4-6 hours. It’s strenuous with some tricky narrow paths that can be slippery. But it rewards with fantastic views and a chance to walk through the stunning Aberglaslyn Pass. Look out for the Welsh Highland Railway steam trains that follow the route too. 

On the way back, climb through Cym Bychan past the remains of old copper mines and down towards the restored Sygum Copper Mine before returning to Beddgelert. 

A true Snowdonia hiking experience

If you’re a keen hiker, Snowdon is a must. 

The Rhyd-Ddu path (a 5 minute drive from Beddgelert Snowdonia) is the quietest of the main Snowdonia hiking routes up, with great views of Moel Hebog and the hills of Nantlle. It’s 12km there and back from the car park at Rhyd Ddu and takes around 6 hours.  

This strenuous walk should only be undertaken with the appropriate equipment and planning. But the sense of achievement that comes with climbing the highest UK mountain outside Scotland, is worth the effort.

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