With its stunning snow-capped mountains and picturesque valleys, Snowdonia National Park is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in the UK, not just Wales. If you’re planning a trip to Wales, you should include a stop here in your itinerary. But with such a vast range of things to do and sights to see, where should you begin? Here’s a list of what are, in my opinion, the top 4 things you can do in Snowdonia National Park.
Climb Snowdon
The highest mountain in Wales, Snowdon, is one the most popular mountains to climb in the UK. It can be reached from Llanberis, a quaint village nestled in the mountains of Snowdonia and the starting point for the easiest and most popular route up Snowdon. The ascent takes about 2-3 hours and is a strenuous hike (you’ll be climbing almost 1000m), but it's definitely worth it once you reach the summit. If you’re fortunate enough to have good weather, you’ll be able to enjoy stunning views across the awe-inspiring landscape of Snowdonia National Park.
In addition to being one of the most photographed mountains in Wales and a popular spot for hikers everywhere, Snowdon also boasts an incredibly unique geology: its summit contains thick layers of volcanic ash from eruptions over 10 million years ago.
It’s also an incredibly popular place for photographers looking for dramatic landscapes at sunrise or sunset (which occur very early on winter mornings) and rock climbing enthusiasts who want something more challenging than just hiking up a mountain.
Admire the Llechwedd Slate Caverns with a deep mine tour
The Llechwedd Slate Caverns feature an underground museum and a deep mine tour where you can explore the history of slate mining and industrial architecture in the north of Wales. The guided tours take about one hour and include a video presentation which explains how slate was mined, transported and processed into building materials. There are also exhibits that show the tools used to cut, shape, and polish the stone prior to installation on roofs or floors.
It's a great way to absorb a little bit of Welsh history whilst you’re on your travels. Plus, it provides the perfect contrast to having climbed Snowdon. You could be on the top of Wales’ tallest mountain one minute and then deep down a mineshaft the next.
Revel in the beauty of a remote mountain lake with the Cwm Idwal Walk
Cwm Idwal has been called "the most beautiful place in Wales," and for good reason. It is a small, enclosed valley surrounded by lush green hills and dotted with streams. The walk through Cwm Idwal takes you through all of this natural beauty to a remote upland area where you’re treated to the beauty of Cwm Idwal lake and views of a waterfall.
A great thing about this walk is that it's not too difficult to complete: it's only about two miles long, so it can be done by just about anyone, including children and seniors.
Take a drive through the breath-taking Llanberis Pass
The Llanberis Pass is a scenic mountain pass in Snowdonia National Park. It is known for its steep inclines and is a popular route for drivers, cyclists and walkers alike.
Driving up this winding road you'll get some great views of several mountains including Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon), Crib Goch and Glyder Fach, and be surrounded by breath-taking scenery throughout your journey.
We hope you’ve enjoyed reading about these amazing places to visit in Snowdonia National Park. If you want to see them all, why not plan an entire trip around visiting each one? It’s easy to do when the weather is nice, and there are so many things to do and see around this area.