Snowdonia’s Hidden Gems
Around four million people visit Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park every year, and the park’s beautiful mountains and lakes are beloved of hikers, families and watersports enthusiasts, among many others. But beyond its popular hotspots, Eryri also has a wealth of little-known historical sites, secluded beaches and quiet nature reserves to explore. Pitchup’s guide to hidden gems in Snowdonia takes in remote mountain hikes, isolated medieval castles, Roman remains, waterfalls and pretty villages where, if you’re lucky, peace, seclusion and the pleasure of discovering a secret are an added part of the fun.
Secret waterfalls
Rhaeadr Ddu waterfall
A magical spot in the Ceunant Llennyrch nature reserve, the impressive Rhaeadr Ddu (or Black Falls) tumble 60 feet over moss-covered boulders in a deep wooded gorge, The National Trust website has details of a two-mile circular walk from the Dolmelynllyn car park in Ganllwyd that takes you past the falls and through the ancient oaks of the reserve. The path can be uneven, rocky and muddy at times, so a good pair of walking boots is useful. As an added bonus, it’s possible to take a dip in the plunge pool at the bottom of the falls, but (as always with wild swimming) please check local conditions and proceed with caution.
Aber Falls (Rhaeadr Fawr)
The Rhaeadr Fawr (or Aber Falls) is a dramatic 120-foot cascade over black igneous rocks in the foothills of the Carneddau mountains. The Snowdonia official website has details of an easy out-and-back route from the Aber Falls car park that is well signposted and pushchair friendly. If you prefer a longer walk, try Visit Snowdonia’s four-mile circular route. Look out for standing stones and cairns along the way, and keep your eyes peeled for buzzards and peregrine falcons.
Lesser-known hiking trails
Cwm Idwal Nature Reserve
A glacial lake in a nature reserve surrounded by towering cliffs, Cwm Idwal has had its fair share of famous visitors, drawn by the dramatic landscape, rare arctic-alpine plants and sheer beauty of the site. The National Trust website has details of a (sometimes steep) three-mile walk that includes a circuit of the lake, starting at the Ogwen Cottage Ranger Base. On your way, look out for the Idwal Slabs, where Sir Edmund Hillary trained for his famous ascent of Everest, and the Darwin Idwal Boulders (first noted by naturalist Charles Darwin in 1842), huge glacial remnants that are a great place to stop for a snack and admire the view.
Rhinog Mountains (the Rhinogydd)
The rugged twin summits of Rhinog Fach and Rhinog Fawr, along with their taller neighbour Y Llethr, stand in a lesser-visited area south of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) in the east of the park. With steep rocky slopes and few marked paths, this is remote terrain, which adds to the allure for many. If you venture out here, you’re unlikely to encounter many other walkers. This is a tough walk for hikers with experience, so make sure you’re fully prepared for a long day – bring clothing for all weathers and plenty of food and water. A downloaded GPS file of the route (such as this eight-mile, five-hour route from Trail magazine on OS maps) will certainly come in handy. You’ll need to be able to read a map, just in case, and remember to inform somebody of your plans.
Quaint villages
Beddgelert
This pretty riverside village, named after the faithful hunting hound of a 13th-century prince, is home to classic Welsh stone cottages and a station on the Welsh Highland steam railway line. Its bistros, pubs, woodcraft centre and ice cream parlour make it a charming place to while away an afternoon, with some beautiful walks nearby Including the Lôn Gwyrfai path to Rhyd Ddu. You can also visit the grave of the aforementioned hound, or venture underground to tour the illuminated caverns of the Sygun Copper Mine. For more details, check out the village website.
Llanberis
Well-known as the start point for the Snowdon Mountain Railway, this lakeside village cradled by the foothills of the park’s most famous mountain also has plenty more to discover. Whether it’s a visit to the ruined medieval Dolbadarn Castle, a trip around the National Slate Museum or watersports and walks around Llyn Padarn, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained. For details of all local activities and attractions, take a look at the Llanberis village website.
Historic sites and ruins
Dolwyddelan Castle
Once the home of 13th-century prince Llywelyn the Great, the remains of handsome Dolwyddelan Castle stand in a commanding position on a hilltop overlooking the lush Lledr Valley and surrounding mountain peaks. It’s worth climbing the hill for the views alone, but if you want to venture inside the keep to wander the battlements and learn more about the castle’s history, it’s open Friday to Sunday (and Bank Holidays) from April to September.
Castell y Bere
Just below Cadair Idris in the Dysynni Valley, Castell y Bere is another of Llywelyn the Great’s 13th-century defensive bastions. Standing guard over the valley from the top of a rocky outcrop, the remains of its elaborate entrance, several towers, walls and the keep have superb views of the valley and the mountain peaks above. There’s a small car park close by, and plaques set among the ruins outline more about Llywelyn and the building’s history. It’s a remote site with access throughout the year – and best of all, entry is free.
Unique outdoor experiences
Plas Brondanw Gardens
Designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, who later created the village of Portmeirion, the gardens surrounding 16th-century Plas Brondanw embody the Italianate style that inspired him throughout his life. Laid out as a series of ‘rooms’ framed by elaborate topiary, they’re home to an eclectic selection of sculptures, with pools, fountains, a striking tower folly and avenues of trees thoughtfully created to maximise the views of Snowdon, Cnicht, and the coast in the distance.
The seclusion of the site makes it a little-known secret, and if you’re lucky you’ll get to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere with very few distractions. The gardens are open from 10am to 4pm all year round, there’s a car park by the house, and payment is via an honesty box or at the on-site cafe.
Tomen y Mur Roman Fort
Dating to the 1st century AD this hillside site overlooking Llyn Trawsfynydd is Wales’ best preserved Roman settlement and has sweeping views of the lake and surrounding mountains.. Among the remains at Tomen y Mur are earthworks that outline the presence of military buildings, a parade ground and an amphitheatre, along with later Saxon, Norman and medieval structures. Information boards across the site trace its history and significance, and there’s a signposted walking trail. Look out for the carved Centurial Stone that was replaced within the walls back in 2007.
Hidden beaches and coastal spots
Porth Ceiriad Beach
Just outside the park at the foot of the Llyn Peninsula, this secluded cove backed by steep cliffs is a favourite with surfers and watersports enthusiasts. Tricky road access, a steep walk from the cliff top car park and a complete absence of facilities mean that it’s rarely busy (especially during the week), but if you persevere you’ll be rewarded with a glorious stretch of sand, rock pools to explore and great views of the mountains of Snowdonia across the bay. Abersoch Life’s website pays a lyrical tribute to this hidden gem, has some great photos, and includes detailed instructions of how to get there.
Porthor
Close to the park on the north side of the Llŷn Peninsula, this remote cove is known for its ‘whistling sands’, named for the sound made by granules in the sand when you walk across it (tip: for the best effect, try the driest bits). The Wales Coast Path runs behind the beach and the clear, shallow water is good for swimming (take a wetsuit, if you have one). Access is from the National Trust car park at the top of the cliffs, and there’s a café and a beach shop that are open in summer.
From waterfalls to castles and secret gardens, if you venture beyond the park’s most popular attractions, Snowdonia’s hidden gems are out there just waiting to be discovered. All you need is curiosity and a spirit of adventure.
If you’re looking for a base for your holiday in Eryri, check out Pitchup’s guide to the best campsites in Snowdonia.
If you’ve enjoyed discovering Snowdonia’s hidden gems, why not share your pictures and adventures on Instagram – #snowdoniagram or #exploresnowdonia