Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park is the largest national park in Wales and one of the country’s most spectacular landscapes. Covering more than 820 square miles (2,130 km²) of mountains, lakes, forests, valleys and coastline, it is home to Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), the highest mountain in Wales, as well as picturesque villages, historic castles and the UNESCO-listed Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales. Although officially renamed Eryri National Park in 2022, many visitors still know it by its English name, Snowdonia National Park.
Whether you’re planning to climb a mountain, ride a heritage railway, explore former slate quarries or simply enjoy some of Britain’s finest scenery, Eryri offers something for every type of visitor. The park is famous for its walking and climbing, but it is equally rewarding for those who prefer scenic drives, photography, wildlife watching or exploring traditional Welsh villages. Historic attractions such as Harlech Castle, the National Slate Museum and the Italian-inspired village of Portmeirion add further variety, making Eryri much more than just a destination for hikers.
The landscape has been shaped over millions of years by volcanic activity and Ice Age glaciers, creating dramatic mountain ridges, deep valleys and crystal-clear lakes. Today the national park protects a rich variety of habitats that support rare plants, birds and mammals, while its mountains, rivers and forests provide endless opportunities for outdoor recreation throughout the year.
Despite its rugged reputation, many of Eryri’s highlights are easy to reach by car, making the park suitable for families, couples and visitors of all ages. Charming villages such as Llanberis, Betws-y-Coed and Beddgelert provide excellent bases with accommodation, cafés and visitor facilities, while scenic roads connect many of the park’s best viewpoints and attractions.
Our recommendation: Allow at least three days if possible. Base yourself in Llanberis, Betws-y-Coed or Beddgelert and explore different parts of the park each day. Even if you don’t plan to climb Yr Wyddfa, there are plenty of scenic walks, beautiful lakes, historic attractions and mountain viewpoints to enjoy.
Official website: https://eryri.gov.wales
Google map 4.9/5
The Best Places to Visit in Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) is the highest mountain in Wales, rising to 1,085 metres (3,560 feet) above sea level. It is one of the UK’s most popular mountains, attracting hundreds of thousands of walkers each year. Six main paths lead to the summit, ranging from the relatively gentle Llanberis Path to the more challenging Watkin Path and the famous Snowdon Horseshoe for experienced hikers. On clear days, the summit offers spectacular views across North Wales, the Irish Sea and even as far as Ireland.
Visitors who prefer not to hike can travel part or all of the way on the Snowdon Mountain Railway, which climbs from Llanberis to the summit, offering some of the finest mountain scenery in Britain.
Our recommendation: If you plan to climb Yr Wyddfa, start early in the morning, particularly during summer. For non-hikers, the mountain railway provides an excellent alternative, although advance booking is recommended during peak season.
Google map 4.8/5
Llanberis
Llanberis is one of the most popular villages in Eryri and an excellent base for exploring the national park. Sitting beside Llyn Padarn at the foot of Yr Wyddfa, it combines mountain scenery with a range of visitor attractions, shops, cafés and accommodation. The village is the starting point for the Llanberis Path to the summit of Yr Wyddfa and the terminus of the Snowdon Mountain Railway.
Llanberis is also home to the National Slate Museum, Dolbadarn Castle and the Llanberis Lake Railway, making it a rewarding destination even if you have no plans to climb the mountain.
Our recommendation: Llanberis is probably the best base for first-time visitors to Eryri, offering a good mix of scenery, attractions and facilities within easy reach of many of the park’s highlights.
Llyn Padarn
Stretching for almost two miles alongside Llanberis, Llyn Padarn is one of the largest natural lakes in North Wales. Surrounded by mountains and woodland, it is a popular destination for walking, kayaking, paddleboarding and wild swimming. The lakeside paths offer beautiful views towards Yr Wyddfa, while the nearby Slate Museum and Llanberis Lake Railway make it easy to spend several hours exploring the area.
The lake also played an important role in the region’s slate industry, with quarries and workshops once operating along its shores.
Our recommendation: The easy walk along the lakeshore is suitable for most visitors and provides some of the best views of Llanberis and the surrounding mountains without any strenuous climbing.
Google map 4.8/5
Llanberis Pass
The Llanberis Pass is one of the most scenic mountain roads in Britain, winding between towering peaks, rocky cliffs and glacial valleys as it links Llanberis with Capel Curig. The pass is famous for its dramatic scenery and has become one of the most photographed locations in North Wales. It also provides access to several of the park’s best walking routes and climbing areas.
Look out for the striking rock formation known as the Cromlech Boulders and the remains of former slate workings scattered throughout the valley.
Our recommendation: Drive the pass slowly and stop at the designated viewpoints whenever possible. Early morning and late afternoon often provide the best light for photography.
Google map 4.8/5
Tryfan
Standing 917 metres (3,010 feet) high, Tryfan is one of Britain’s most distinctive mountains. Unlike Yr Wyddfa, there is no easy walking path to the summit, and reaching the top involves scrambling over rocky terrain. The mountain is famous for the two standing stones known as Adam and Eve, which sit on the summit and have become an iconic feature of North Wales.
Although Tryfan is best suited to experienced walkers, it remains an impressive sight from the surrounding valleys and roads.
Our recommendation: Unless you’re experienced in mountain scrambling, enjoy the views of Tryfan from the Ogwen Valley rather than attempting the summit.
Google map 4.9/5
Llyn Ogwen
Nestled beneath the dramatic peaks of Tryfan and the Glyderau, Llyn Ogwen is one of Eryri’s most picturesque mountain lakes. Easily reached from the A5, it provides one of the most accessible introductions to the park’s spectacular mountain scenery. The lake is the starting point for several challenging walks, but many visitors simply stop to admire the views or enjoy a short walk along the shoreline.
Welsh legend also associates the lake with the story of King Arthur, with some believing Excalibur was returned to its waters after Arthur’s death.
Our recommendation: Even if you’re only driving through the national park, Llyn Ogwen is well worth stopping for. It’s one of the easiest places to experience Eryri’s mountain scenery without undertaking a long walk.
Google map 4.8/5
Cadair Idris (Penygadair)
Standing 893 metres (2,930 feet) above sea level, Cadair Idris is one of Wales’ most famous mountains and is often considered one of the country’s finest day hikes. Several well-established routes lead to the summit, passing glacial lakes, rocky slopes and spectacular viewpoints. According to Welsh legend, anyone who spends a night on the mountain will return either as a poet or a madman.
Although less visited than Yr Wyddfa, Cadair Idris offers equally impressive scenery and a quieter hiking experience.
Our recommendation: Minffordd Path is one of the most rewarding routes to the summit, although it is steep in places. Start early and allow most of the day for the walk.
Google map 4.9/5
Betws-y-Coed
Often described as the gateway to Eryri National Park, Betws-y-Coed is one of North Wales’ most attractive villages. Surrounded by woodland and rivers, it has long been a favourite base for visitors exploring the national park. The village offers a good selection of outdoor shops, cafés, restaurants and accommodation, while nearby attractions include Swallow Falls, Fairy Glen and numerous forest walking trails.
Our recommendation: Betws-y-Coed makes an excellent base if you want easy access to both the mountains and the forests of northern Eryri, particularly if you’re planning several days in the national park.
Swallow Falls
Swallow Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in Wales and one of the most visited natural attractions in Eryri National Park. Located just outside Betws-y-Coed, the River Llugwy tumbles through a series of rocky cascades surrounded by mature woodland. A network of viewing platforms provides excellent views of the falls throughout the year, with particularly impressive water levels after heavy rain.
Our recommendation: Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the busiest times. Swallow Falls combines easily with a visit to Betws-y-Coed and nearby Fairy Glen.
Google map 4.5/5
Beddgelert
Beddgelert is one of the most picturesque villages in Eryri, set where the Rivers Glaslyn and Colwyn meet beneath the surrounding mountains. Stone cottages, traditional inns and attractive riverside walks make it a popular place to stop while exploring the national park. The village is also famous for the legend of Gelert, the faithful hunting dog of Prince Llywelyn the Great, whose supposed grave lies just outside the village.
Beddgelert is an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions including Aberglaslyn Pass, the Welsh Highland Railway and Yr Wyddfa.
Our recommendation: Allow time for the short walk to Gelert’s Grave and follow the riverside path towards Aberglaslyn Pass, one of the most scenic walks in North Wales.
Aberglaslyn Pass
Aberglaslyn Pass is a spectacular river gorge carved by the River Glaslyn between Beddgelert and Nantmor. Steep wooded slopes, rocky cliffs and fast-flowing water create one of the most beautiful walking routes in Eryri. The well-maintained path follows the river through the narrow gorge, crossing footbridges and passing several excellent viewpoints along the way.
The pass forms part of the longer Aberglaslyn, Beddgelert and Nantmor circular walk, although shorter sections can also be enjoyed.
Our recommendation: Combine Aberglaslyn Pass with a visit to Beddgelert. The riverside walk is one of the most rewarding short walks in the national park.
Google map 4.8/5
National Slate Museum
Located in Llanberis at the foot of Yr Wyddfa, the National Slate Museum tells the story of the Welsh slate industry that shaped much of North Wales during the 19th century. Housed in the former Dinorwig Quarry workshops, the museum features original machinery, restored quarry buildings and demonstrations of traditional slate splitting. Together with the surrounding Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales UNESCO World Heritage Site, it provides an excellent introduction to one of Wales’ most important industries.
Please note: The National Slate Museum is currently closed for a major redevelopment project. During the closure, some exhibitions and activities have moved to nearby locations as part of the Museum on the Move programme. Check the official website for the latest updates before travelling.
Official website: https://museum.wales/slate/
Google map 4.7/5
Zip World Llechwedd
Located near Blaenau Ffestiniog, Zip World Llechwedd is one of North Wales’ leading adventure attractions. The site occupies a former slate quarry and offers a range of activities, including underground trampolines at Bounce Below, underground adventure courses and guided tours of the historic slate caverns. Nearby Zip World Titan also features one of Europe’s largest zip line experiences.
The attraction successfully combines outdoor adventure with the industrial heritage of the former slate mining landscape.
Our recommendation: This is an excellent choice for families with older children or anyone looking for something different from the park’s walking trails and mountain scenery.
Official website: https://www.zipworld.co.uk
Google map 4.7/5
Castell Harlech (Harlech Castle)
Perched high above the coast, Harlech Castle is one of the finest medieval castles in Britain and forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd. Built by Edward I during the late 13th century, the castle commands magnificent views across Cardigan Bay and the mountains of Eryri.
Visitors can explore the towers, battlements and gatehouse while learning about the castle’s important role in Welsh and British history.
Our recommendation: Visit on a clear day when the views from the battlements stretch across both the mountains and the coastline. Harlech combines well with nearby beaches and Portmeirion.
Official website: https://cadw.gov.wales/
Google map 4.6/5
Portmeirion
Portmeirion is unlike anywhere else in Wales. Designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975, this colourful Italian-inspired village overlooks the Dwyryd Estuary on the edge of Eryri National Park. Elegant buildings, subtropical gardens, peaceful woodland walks and waterfront views create a unique setting that has attracted visitors for decades. The village also became famous as the filming location for the classic 1960s television series The Prisoner.
Our recommendation: Arrive early or stay overnight if possible to experience Portmeirion after the day visitors have left. It is one of the most distinctive attractions in North Wales.
Official website: https://portmeirion.wales
Google map 4.5/5
Coed y Brenin Forest Park
Coed y Brenin Forest Park was Britain’s first purpose-built mountain biking centre and remains one of the country’s best outdoor recreation destinations. Covering thousands of acres of woodland, the park offers an extensive network of mountain biking trails ranging from beginner-friendly routes to challenging technical courses. There are also walking trails, running routes and picnic areas, making it an excellent destination even if you don’t plan to cycle.
The visitor centre provides bike hire, a café and information about the surrounding forest and wildlife.
Our recommendation: Even if mountain biking isn’t your thing, Coed y Brenin offers several attractive woodland walks and is a great place to enjoy a quieter side of Eryri.
Google map 4.8/5
Dolgellau
Situated in the southern part of Eryri National Park, Dolgellau is a traditional Welsh market town with more than 200 listed buildings built largely from local stone. Surrounded by mountains and close to the Mawddach Estuary, it provides an excellent base for exploring southern Eryri. The town has a good selection of independent shops, cafés and restaurants and is particularly popular with walkers and cyclists.
Nearby attractions include Cadair Idris, Coed y Brenin Forest Park and the Mawddach Trail.
Our recommendation: Dolgellau is an excellent choice if you prefer a quieter base away from the busier villages around Yr Wyddfa while still having easy access to some of the park’s finest scenery.
Mawddach Trail
The Mawddach Trail is one of Wales’ most scenic walking and cycling routes, following a disused railway line for around nine miles between Dolgellau and Barmouth. Running alongside the beautiful Mawddach Estuary, the largely flat trail offers magnificent views of mountains, woodland and tidal waters, making it suitable for walkers and cyclists of all abilities.
The route passes through peaceful countryside and provides plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Our recommendation: If you’re looking for a gentle walk or cycle ride away from the mountains, the Mawddach Trail is one of the best options in Eryri.
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National White Water Centre
Located near Bala on the River Tryweryn, the National White Water Centre is one of the UK’s leading destinations for white water rafting and kayaking. Thanks to a dam-controlled river, water levels remain reliable throughout the year, allowing beginners and experienced paddlers alike to enjoy exciting river adventures. The centre also offers canyoning, gorge walking and guided outdoor activities.
Our recommendation: If you’re looking for something more adventurous than hiking, this is one of the best places in Wales to experience white water rafting.
Google map 4.8/5
Best Time to Visit Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park
Eryri National Park can be visited throughout the year, with each season offering a different experience. Spring brings colourful wildflowers and quieter walking trails, while summer offers the best conditions for hiking, although popular areas around Yr Wyddfa can become very busy. Autumn is an excellent time to visit, with fewer visitors and beautiful autumn colours across the forests and valleys. Winter can be spectacular, but mountain conditions become much more challenging and require suitable equipment and experience.
How to Get to Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park
The national park is easily reached by road from across North Wales and northwest England. The A55 North Wales Expressway provides convenient access to the northern part of the park, while scenic roads connect the main villages and attractions.
The nearest railway stations include Bangor, Betws-y-Coed, Blaenau Ffestiniog and Porthmadog, with local bus services linking many of the larger villages. Several heritage railways, including the Snowdon Mountain Railway, Ffestiniog Railway and Welsh Highland Railway, also provide memorable ways to explore parts of the region.
Our Recommendation
If it’s your first visit to Eryri, focus on one area rather than trying to see the entire national park. Spend time around Llanberis and Yr Wyddfa, explore villages such as Betws-y-Coed and Beddgelert, and include at least one historic attraction such as the National Slate Museum or Harlech Castle. If you have three or four days, you’ll have enough time to experience the park’s mountains, lakes, villages and industrial heritage without feeling rushed.