Exploring Snowdonia: Hiking Adventure and travel to a different era

Welcome to Snowdonia

Snowdonia National Park, nestled in North Wales, is an awe-inspiring region defined by its rugged peaks, serene lakes, and rich cultural history. Covering over 823 square miles, Snowdonia is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a diverse landscape that includes towering mountains, tranquil valleys, and picturesque villages. Central to this natural wonder is Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, standing tall at 1,085 meters (3,560 feet), attracting adventurers from all over the world.

The park's striking vistas are shaped by geological forces that have transformed this area over millions of years. While hiking is a popular pursuit in Snowdonia, there are also numerous other activities to enjoy, including rock climbing, cycling, and water sports. The park’s combination of stunning natural landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and cultural heritage makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

For those planning a hiking adventure, it’s essential to understand what to expect and how to prepare. If you're interested in hiking Mount Snowdon, make sure to visit my detailed hiking guide to discover the best trails, tips, and advice to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

In this post, I’m excited to share my personal experience in Snowdonia, offering insights into the journey and the stunning beauty that this incredible region has to offer. I’ll walk you through what we did each day, where we stayed, and the things I learned along the way. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner planning your first visit, I hope my experience can help you plan and make the most of your own adventure in Snowdonia.

For more detailed advice on the best trails to take up Mount Snowdon and tips for preparing for your hike, be sure to check out my dedicated post on hiking routes in the area.

My 4-Day Hiking Adventure in Snowdonia: A Day-by-Day Guide

Snowdonia National Park in Wales is a true gem. From its majestic peaks to its charming villages, every moment of my 4-day adventure left me in awe. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking to explore the natural beauty of this incredible place, Snowdonia offers something for everyone. Here’s how we spent our time, and I’m sure you’ll leave with unforgettable memories, just like I did!

Day 1: London to Betws-y-Coed

We started our journey at the crack of dawn, departing London at 6:00 AM. The drive was about 5-6 hours long, but honestly, it was part of the fun! We made a couple of stops along the way in Shrewsbury and Chester to stretch our legs and take in some of the picturesque towns. If you love charming British villages, these are a must-visit, so take your time!

By early afternoon, we arrived in Betws-y-Coed, a magical village nestled in the heart of Snowdonia. After checking into our B&B and relaxing for a bit, we were ready to explore. The village itself is picture-perfect, with stone cottages, scenic riversides, and cozy cafés that will steal your heart.

We decided to explore Betws-y-Coed Village – and trust me, it didn’t disappoint! Make sure to stop by St. Michael’s Church, which is not only beautiful but also steeped in history. If you’re up for it, you can take a short drive (about 10 minutes) to Swallow Falls, a gorgeous waterfall that’s totally worth the detour. Alternatively, for a quiet nature walk, Gwydir Forest Park is just 20 minutes away and offers peaceful trails.

For dinner, we enjoyed hearty Welsh food at Ty Gwyn Inn, where the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. Afterward, we took it easy, soaking in the peaceful vibes of the village, ready for the exciting days ahead.

Pro Tip: Betws-y-Coed is a great spot to unwind, but don’t forget to book your accommodations in advance – especially during peak season!

Day 2: Castles, Gardens, and Coastal Highlights

We kicked off the day early with a trip to Caernarfon, only about an hour away from Betws-y-Coed. You absolutely must visit Caernarfon Castle. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most impressive castles I’ve ever seen. Spend some time wandering around, taking in the epic views from the walls, and imagining life in medieval Wales. It’s a must for history lovers!

After exploring the castle, we made our way to Llanrwst (a 45-minute drive) for a well-deserved break. We popped into the quaint tearoom Tu Hwnt I’r Bont – I highly recommend trying their Welsh cake and a coffee. It’s one of those hidden gems that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into another time.

Next stop – Conwy (just 25 minutes away)! Conwy Castle is another jaw-dropping fortress, and walking along the town walls gives you stunning views of the landscape. Don’t rush – take your time exploring Conwy’s medieval streets, and grab lunch in one of the lovely local cafés.

We then drove to Bodnant Garden (about 15 minutes away), a breathtaking National Trust garden that’s an absolute paradise for plant lovers. We spent about 1-2 hours wandering through the gardens, admiring the seasonal blooms and taking in the views of Snowdonia. This is one of those places where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a painting.

After Bodnant, we headed to Llandudno (20 minutes away), where we took the scenic Marine Drive around the Great Orme. The coastal views are phenomenal. Make sure to take plenty of photos because this drive will leave you speechless.

We wrapped up our day by returning to Betws-y-Coed (about a 30-minute drive), where we had a delicious dinner and reflected on the incredible sights we’d seen.

Pro Tip: For a more leisurely pace, consider planning for longer stops at each destination. Snowdonia is all about savoring the beauty around you!

Day 3: Snowdon Hike & Adventure

The day we’d been waiting for! After breakfast, we drove to Pen-y-Pass, the start of the Y Lliwedd Trail, a moderately challenging hike around Snowdon, Wales' highest peak. The views from the trail are absolutely jaw-dropping. If you're up for it, this 6-7 hour hike will give you the best panoramas of Llyn Llydaw and surrounding peaks. Make sure to bring water, snacks, and a camera – the scenery is too beautiful to miss!

Reaching the summit of Snowdon was a dream come true. The view from the top is nothing short of spectacular, and the feeling of standing on the highest point in Wales is unforgettable. If you have a bit of time, explore Bwlch Glas, a nearby ridge offering even more incredible vistas.

After our descent, we drove to Llanberis Village (10-15 minutes away) for a relaxing stroll around Llyn Padarn Lake. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long hike, and the peaceful setting is the ideal place to reflect on your adventure. If you’re up for it, check out the National Slate Museum, which tells the fascinating story of the slate industry in Snowdonia.

After a long day, we treated ourselves to a well-deserved dinner in Llanberis or back in Betws-y-Coed. Relax, enjoy the food, and toast to a day well spent.

Pro Tip: Don’t underestimate the weather in Snowdonia. It can change quickly, so be sure to wear layers and pack rain gear – better safe than sorry!

Day 4: Zip World Llechwedd & Harlech Castle

We kicked off our final day with an adrenaline rush! We headed to Zip World Llechwedd (about 45 minutes from Betws-y-Coed). If you’re a thrill-seeker, you have to try the ziplining here – it’s the fastest zip line in Europe! Alternatively, if you’re more into exploring, the Llechwedd Slate Caverns are a fascinating underground experience. Be sure to pre-book your tickets, as these activities can fill up fast.

After all the excitement, we made our way to Harlech Castle (about 45 minutes from Zip World). This castle sits on a cliff with sweeping views of Cardigan Bay. The setting is absolutely dramatic, and spending an hour or so exploring its towers and walls is a perfect way to wrap up our trip.

We started our drive back to London (about 4.5 to 5 hours), but we made sure to stop along the way for breaks in Shrewsbury or Chester if we needed to stretch our legs. A little extra time to relax on the drive back goes a long way!

Pro Tip: If you’re driving from Snowdonia back to London, consider a few stops for breaks along the way. It’s a long drive, and a stretch and snack can make it much more pleasant!

Final Thoughts

This trip was nothing short of magical. Snowdonia is a place where every day offers something new—whether you’re hiking to the top of Snowdon, wandering through medieval castles, or relaxing in one of the beautiful villages. It’s a destination that combines outdoor adventure with rich history and culture, and I can’t recommend it enough.

If you’re planning a trip, take your time to enjoy each moment. The scenery is spectacular, and the people are welcoming. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or both, Snowdonia has it all!

And don't forget - Create a story with every mile you walk!