Snowdonia Off The Beaten Path Tips by sandysmith Top 5 Page for this destination

Lyn Crafnant and Llyn Geirionydd

Lake Crafnant is on the eastern edge of Snowdonia National Park. It is said to be the prettiest of a number of lakes in the area above the small village of Trefriw., near Llanwrst in the Vale of Conwy. Lake Crafnant is a 63 acre natural mountain lake, some ¾ of a mile long and is situated in a glorious mountain setting. Its a popular place for walking - fairly easy trails. Crafnant takes its name from “craf”, an old Welsh word for garlic, and “nant”, a stream. Even today the valley of Afon Crafnant smells of wild garlic when it flowers.

We made the 6 mile hike around the head of Lyn Crafnant, with its craggy peaked scenery,to the neighbouring lake of Llyn Geirionydd, which runs parallel to it, but a mile distant/ A short ascent through the forest trail of Mynydd Deulyn – “mountain of the two lakes" is made (approx 200m ascent). The western shore of Llyn Geirionydd is followed and then a track back to Lyn Crafnant via some derelict Pandora slate quarries. This second lake is the only one designated in Snowdonia to permit power boats and water skiing. A varied walk - allow about 3 hours. Well waymarked with colour codes for the trails.

Capel Curig

...and here's another couple of reflections looking towards the bridge (opposite direction to Snowdon)

Cwm Pennant

A lesser known Cwim in Snowdonia is Cwm Pennant. here you can follow a 3 mile route path to the end of the valley passing ruins of old slate quarries. Peaceful scenery and a gentle stream along the valley floor. Its even worthwhile to have a drive here if not up to walking.

Directions: In Tremadog take the A487 to Caernarfon. Pass through Penmorfa and then near the crest of the hill turn right (signposted "Woollen Mill"). Continue for 1.5 miles, passing Bryncir Woollen Mill, to a narrow right turn- signposted with Cwm Pennant.

Cwm Bychan

A desolate valley behind Beddgelert affords rugged Snowdonia scenery and you will also come across remanants of forming mining industry here...long since abandoned but relics remain as reminders - watch your footing here for the metal in the ground!
The walk here begins just above the Aberglasslyn Bridge where there is a convenient car park.

Reflection by Capel Curig

Just by the lake near Capel Curig is the perfect place for those Snowdonia reflections.... Cross the stile by the road and head for the little bridge for some fabulous views.

Nant Gwynant Valley

This beautiful valley slices through the mountains to the north-east of Beddgelert, its narrow floor largely filled by two idyllic lakes, Llyn Dinas and Llyn Gwynant. As the A498 climbs the shoulder of the Nant Gwynant pass there are panoramic views of Snowdon and its neighbouring peaks and there's a handy little cark park where you can pull in off the road to take in this stunning view.