This guidebook describes the Snowdonia Way in Wales, a long-distance route through Snowdonia National Park from Machynlleth to Conwy. A low-level route of 97 miles (in 6 stages of between 13 and 21 miles) passes through the heart of Snowdonia's stunning mountain scenery and includes Pass of Aberglaslyn, Ogwen Valley and Aber Falls. It is suitable for walkers of average fitness and stamina, though the day stages are long. An alternative mountain route covers 122 miles in 9 stages of 12-18 miles giving a spectacular journey over the most famous peaks such as Cadair Idris, Snowdon and Glyders. The high-level route is more physically challenging and requires good navigation skills.
Full route descriptions for each stage are accompanied by OS maps and profiles. The guide also includes lists of accommodation and transport providers and a table of facilities to help with itinerary planning. Background notes on Snowdonia's geology, wildlife and history and extra information about features encountered along the way will help you discover more about this ancient and beautiful land.
Activities
Walking, long-distance walking, hiking, backpacking
Seasons
Both the main route and mountain route can be walked throughout the year, though in winter conditions the mountain route requires full winter mountaineering equipment.
Centres
Machynlleth, Abergynolwyn, Dolgellau, Trawsfynydd, Penrhyndeudraeth, Beddgelert, Pen-y-Pass, Dolwyddelan, Capel Curig, Bethesda, Llanfairfechan, Conwy
Difficulty
Though the walking days are long, the main route is mostly easy to navigate and stays at a low level, only crossing passes when necessary. Walkers should be used to full days out. The mountain route requires good navigation and includes a considerable amount of ascent, sometimes with no path.
Must See
Snowdon, Cadair Idris, The Glyders, Lake Trawsfynydd, The Ogwen Valley, The Vale of Ffestiniog, Aber Falls, The Pass of Aberglaslyn, The castles of Llewelyn the Great, The myth of King Arthur, Llyn Gwynant, Llyn Ogwen, Nantgwynant, Coed y Brenin, The Moelwyns, Moel Siabod, The Carneddau, Slate quarrying, Owain Glyndŵr