Snowdonia – Wales

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

We will start our journey to the mountains around 3pm. If you arrive earlier you can store your luggage with us and use the time to explore Chester. 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 Betws-y-Coed, 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.

Click for Route Map :  13 km  5 h  ~950 m  ●●●○○ — Moderate

Moelwyn Mawr (770 m) is a rewarding summit in southern Snowdonia, offering quieter trails and wide-ranging views across the mountains and coast. Starting from the slate village of Croesor, the path climbs steadily past old quarry workings and reservoirs, reminders of the area’s industrial past.

The route continues onto open slopes and grassy ridges, gaining height until the summit cairn is reached. From the top the panorama stretches over Snowdon and the Glyderau to the north, Cnicht’s sharp peak close by, and the estuaries and coastline of Cardigan Bay to the west.

The descent can be made by looping over neighbouring Moelwyn Bach, adding variety before dropping back into the Croesor Valley. With its mix of history, quiet trails, and expansive views, Moelwyn Mawr makes an excellent moderate day in Snowdonia.

Click for Route Map :  9 km  5–6 h  ~900 m  ●●●○○ — Moderate

From Ogwen Cottage the trail climbs into Cwm Idwal, circling Llyn Idwal before rising steeply into the rocky cleft of the Devil’s Kitchen. Stone steps lead through the dark gash in the cliffs to reach the high plateau of Llyn y Cŵn.

From here the path continues upward across boulder-strewn ground to the summit of Glyder Fawr (1,001 m). The top is a wild landscape of shattered rock and tors, with views stretching across Snowdon, the Carneddau, and down into the Ogwen Valley.

The descent retraces the route via the Devil’s Kitchen, returning once more to Cwm Idwal. With its mix of glacial valley, dramatic cliffs, and a high mountain summit, this route is one of the most rewarding day hikes in Snowdonia.

Click for Route Map :  14 km  6–7 h  ~950 m  ●●●●○ — Challenging

Snowdon (1,085 m) is the highest mountain in Wales and one of the most popular climbs in the UK. Among the many approaches, the Pyg Track and Miner’s Track circuit from Pen-y-Pass is a classic. The trail climbs steadily on rocky paths with early views of the Glyderau before steepening toward the high ridge below the summit.

From the top, a broad cairn marks the highest point in Wales, with sweeping views across Snowdonia to Anglesey, the Llyn Peninsula, and on clear days as far as Ireland. The descent via the Miner’s Track passes beneath sheer cliffs and alongside glacial lakes, gradually returning to Pen-y-Pass.

With its mix of rugged paths, dramatic scenery, and a true summit experience, Snowdon is a demanding but unforgettable day in the mountains.

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.

Click for Route Map :  10 km  5–6 h  ~850 m  ●●●●○ — Challenging

Cadair Idris (893 m) is one of the most iconic peaks in Wales, rising steeply above the southern edge of Snowdonia. The classic ascent follows the Minffordd Path, beginning near Tal-y-llyn Lake and climbing through ancient oak woodland before emerging onto open mountain slopes.

The trail passes Llyn Cau, a glacial corrie lake cradled beneath sheer cliffs, before zigzagging upward onto the main ridge. The route continues along the airy crest to the summit of Penygadair, where views stretch across Cardigan Bay, the Cambrian Mountains, and deep into the Snowdonia range.

The descent follows the same path back down, completing a compact but demanding circuit with a mix of forest, lake, and high mountain ridge. With its dramatic scenery and legendary atmosphere, Cadair Idris is a true highlight of southern Snowdonia.

Click for Route Map : 10.5 km  4–6 h  ~800 m  ●●●○○ — Moderate

Moel Siabod is one of Snowdonia’s best short mountain hikes, offering a big summit feel without the crowds of Snowdon. Starting from the Capel Curig area, the route climbs steadily through open moorland and rocky slopes before reaching a broad, rugged summit with panoramic views across the Glyderau, the Carneddau, and on a clear day, Snowdon itself. It’s a rewarding half-day adventure with a good mix of easy walking and light scrambling near the top, and because it stands slightly apart from the main range it gives you a unique, wide-angle view of the whole park.

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 after breakfast (arrival around midday). 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!