A full-guide to Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park, or its official name: Eryri National Park, is the largest national park in Wales. The star of the park is Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in both Wales and England, which stands at 1,085 meters (3,560 feet).

The scenery of Snowdonia is spectacular in every season and you can do any sort of adventure activities, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Adventures Activities

In summer, you can hike the park’s numerous trails, go rock climbing, or try your hand at mountain biking. For water lovers, Bala Lake offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. Adventurers can also explore the slate mines around Blaenau Ffestiniog or try zip-lining at Zip World Titan, the longest zip line in Europe.

In winter, Snowdonia transforms into a snow-dusted wonderland. Snowshoers, winter hikers, and climbers flock to the park to experience its wintry beauty. With the right equipment and preparation, the colder months reveal an entirely different side of Snowdonia.

Reaching the Summit

Option 1: Hiking to the Top

There are six main hiking paths that lead to the summit, each with its own level of difficulty and scenery. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Llanberis Path: The most popular route and the easiest, though it’s still challenging. It follows the train track for much of the way and has a gradual incline. A good choice if you’re new to mountain hiking.
Pyg Track: A shorter but steeper route, offering great views of lakes and surrounding peaks. This is a popular path for more experienced hikers.
Miner’s Track: Starts off easy along lakes but gets tougher as you approach the summit. It’s a rewarding route for those up for a bit of a challenge.
Watkin Path: This is the most challenging route, with steep sections and rocky terrain. It’s a beautiful trail, passing waterfalls and streams, but it’s definitely for the more seasoned hiker.

Option 2: Taking the Snowdon Mountain Railway

If you’re not up for the climb like the editor herself who wanted a more comfortable and memorable way to reach the summit of Mount Snowdon, then the Snowdon Mountain Railway is your perfect choice! Don’t worry, you still get to see the beautiful sceneries of the mountain along the way, the railway is making it more accessible for everyone, and it is ideal for travellers of all ages who want to experience Snowdonia’s beauty.

Established in 1896, the railway has been carrying visitors to the peak for over a century, winding through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Snowdonia National Park. The railway departs from the charming village of Llanberis, travelling nearly 5 miles to the summit of Snowdon. As you climb, the train offers incredible views of Snowdonia’s rugged terrain, including glacial lakes, sweeping valleys, and panoramic mountain vistas. You can sit back and enjoy the sights, listening to the conductor’s vivid commentary, spotting local wildlife like mountain goats, rare birds, and sometimes even Snowdonia’s wild ponies.

The Summit

At the top, you can disembark and explore the summit area, where UK’s highest visitor centre, Hafod Eryri visitor centre awaits. Opened in 2009, Hafod Eryri offers a warm retreat with refreshments, displays about the area’s geology and wildlife, and even a panoramic café. The visitor centre is designed to blend into the rugged surroundings, featuring large glass windows that allow for unobstructed views over the entire park and beyond on clear days.

A Few Tips

Snowdon Mountain Railway: The railway operates seasonally, typically from March to the end of October, with exact dates depending on weather conditions. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially in the busy summer months. The journey to the summit takes around 1 hour, with a short stay at the top before the descent back to Llanberis.

Bring Layers: Even if it’s warm at the base, it can get cold and windy at the summit.

Stay Safe: The paths can be challenging, so stick to your fitness level and don’t hesitate to turn back if the weather takes a turn.

Respect the Land: Snowdonia is a treasured natural space, so be sure to stick to marked trails, leave no litter, and respect local wildlife.

Other Attractions in North Wales Worth a Visit

While Snowdonia might be the star attraction, North Wales has much more to offer, making it a well-rounded travel destination. Here are some additional spots to add to your itinerary:

Llandudno: Known as the “Queen of the Welsh Resorts,” Llandudno is a classic seaside town with a Victorian pier, sandy beaches, and the scenic Great Orme headland. Ride the cable car to the summit for panoramic views of the coast and Snowdonia in the distance.
Conwy Castle: Conwy Castle is a stunning, well-preserved fortress along the Conwy Estuary, with towering walls and eight impressive towers. Built by Edward I, it offers sweeping views of the river and countryside. Visitors can explore its historic walls and enjoy the charming medieval town of Conwy, which features Britain’s smallest house.
Caernarfon Castle: Known for its striking polygonal towers and Roman-inspired design, Caernarfon Castle is a grand structure on the Menai Strait. Once a royal palace and still used for the Prince of Wales’ investitures, it offers visitors panoramic views of the strait and Snowdonia’s peaks.
Harlech Castle: It is another must-visit. Perched on a cliff, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers sweeping views of Snowdonia and the coastline. Built in the late 13th century, it’s one of Edward I’s “Iron Ring” castles and provides fascinating insight into medieval history. Conwy Castle and Caernarfon Castle are other impressive fortresses that showcase North Wales’ strategic significance and rich heritage.
The Llechwedd Slate Caverns: Explore the history of the slate industry in the immersive underground Llechwedd Slate Caverns near Blaenau Ffestiniog. Descend deep into the mines to learn about the life of Welsh miners, with thrilling zip-line adventures available for the adrenaline-seeking visitor.

Why you should visit

When planning a visit to Snowdonia and North Wales, consider basing yourself in one of the charming villages on the park’s outskirts, such as Betws-y-Coed or Llandudno. North Wales has excellent rail and road connections, and Manchester and Liverpool airports offer convenient access if you’re arriving from further afield.

North Wales promises an incredible mix of natural wonders, historic sites, and unique attractions for all types of travelers. Snowdonia National Park alone is worth the trip, but the surrounding areas offer even more reasons to explore this fascinating region. Whether you’re there for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, North Wales will leave you with unforgettable memories and a longing to return.