WALES' ULTIMATE
Hiking adventure

Your adventure begins as you arrive in the UK, where transport will be arranged to collect you from Chester or Station or directly in Blaenau-Ffestiniog. It’s well connected to Manchester, Liverpool and London making your journey smooth and hassle-free. 

To make the most of your trip, we recommend arriving in the morning or afternoon, giving you time to settle in and also a great opportunity to meet your fellow adventurers. If you’re arriving a day early, we can suggest excellent accommodation options to ensure a relaxed start to your journey. 

For the duration of the trip, you’ll be based in Blaenau-Ffestiniog, nestled in the mountains of Snowdonia. This means you won’t have to carry all your belongings from place to place, and after each day of hiking, you’ll return to the comfort of a warm shower and a cosy bed. Get ready for an unforgettable week exploring one of Europe’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.

Distance – 11.2km, Elevation – 850m, Time – 6 Hours

This dramatic loop starting right from Blaenau Ffestiniog offers one of Snowdonia’s most rugged and rewarding days out, weaving through the haunting beauty of the Moelwyn mountain range. The hike begins near the historic slate quarries that give Blaenau its distinct character, ascending steadily into the wild open hills. The first challenge is Moelwyn Bach, a steep climb with rocky scrambles and sweeping views across Tanygrisiau Reservoir and back toward the town’s slate-covered slopes. A narrow saddle links it to Moelwyn Mawr, the larger of the two, where the landscape becomes more open and expansive. From the summit, you’re rewarded with stunning 360° views — north toward Snowdon and the Glyderau, west to the Irish Sea, and south across the Rhinogs and Cadair Idris. Descending past Llyn Stwlan, a beautifully situated mountain lake, the trail loops back down into Blaenau, passing relics of old mining routes and stone ruins, giving the hike an almost post-apocalyptic atmosphere in places. It’s a varied and atmospheric mountain route — steep in parts, quiet, and full of moments that feel completely untouched by time. On a clear day, it’s absolutely unforgettable; on a misty one, it’s mystical.

Distance – 10.9km, Elevation – 750m, Time – 5 Hours

Just a 20-minute drive from Blaenau brings you to Croesor, where the trail to Cnicht begins. Often called the “Welsh Matterhorn” for its sharply pointed summit, Cnicht offers one of the most photogenic profiles in Snowdonia. The hike begins gently along a grassy path before rising steeply toward the peak. The final scramble to the summit is short but exhilarating, and the reward is a sweeping view over Porthmadog, the Moelwyns, and the Cardigan Bay coastline. You can descend the same way or make a loop via remote upland lakes for an added challenge. It’s a short hike, but one that packs a real punch in both beauty and atmosphere.

Distance – 13.4km, Elevation – 990m, Time – 7 Hours

This is the most scenic and arguably the most challenging route up Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) — Wales’ highest peak. Just a 40–45 minute drive from Blaenau, the Watkin Path starts in Nant Gwynant, weaving through mossy woodland and alongside waterfalls before opening into a vast alpine valley. The upper section is steep and rocky, requiring careful footing, but you’ll be rewarded with a thrilling approach to the summit. On a clear day, you’ll see across all of Snowdonia, and even as far as Ireland. The descent retraces your steps, offering fresh perspectives on the way down. This hike combines historic significance, wild terrain, and incredible variety.

After several days of hiking through Snowdonia’s wild landscapes, today is a chance to slow down, explore the villages at your own pace, or take a day trip to one of the country’s other stunning destinations.

There are hundreds more hikes you can go for alone if you still have the energy or maybe you would like to visit one of the beautiful seaside towns such as Barmouth. We have lots of ideas for you if you need some inspiration.

Distance – 10.2km, Elevation – 937m, Time – 6 Hours

A longer drive (about 1 hour 20 mins) from Blaenau, but well within your 90-minute window, this classic southern Snowdonia hike is worth every mile. The Minffordd Path climbs through ancient oak woodland before reaching Llyn Cau, a stunning glacial lake nestled beneath the horseshoe of Cadair Idris. The route then ascends steeply to the summit ridge, offering jaw-dropping views over Cardigan Bay and into mid-Wales. The mountain carries an air of myth — said to inspire poetry, or madness, in those who sleep on it — and the dramatic landscape certainly lives up to the legends. A perfect balance of effort and reward, it’s a highlight of any Snowdonia trip.

Distance – 11.2km, Elevation – 895m, Time – 6 Hours

About an hour’s drive from Blaenau gets you to Ogwen Cottage, the gateway to the Glyderau range. This iconic hike begins by skirting the shores of Llyn Idwal before heading into the dramatic gash of Devil’s Kitchen, a rocky ascent through dark, imposing cliffs. From there, the route climbs to Glyder Fawr, a broad summit with epic views, and then continues across an otherworldly boulder field to Glyder Fach, where the jagged spires of Castell y Gwynt steal the show. It’s a rugged, surreal landscape that feels more like a fantasy novel than a real place — and it’s one of Snowdonia’s most iconic mountain days.

After an incredible week exploring the wild beauty of the Welsh mountains, it’s time to pack your bags and begin your journey onwards. Transport will be arranged to take you back to Chester. It’s recommended not to book a flight or train too early on the final day to give us plenty of time to get back to the airport.

If you’re extending your stay, there are plenty of incredible places to explore beyond the mountains. We’d be happy to share recommendations to help you make the most of your time.

As you leave Snowdonia behind, you’ll take with you memories of dramatic peaks, turquoise lakes, and unforgettable adventures in one of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes. Until next time!