6 Exciting Things To Do In Snowdonia
By: Kratika Fri, 22 Oct 2021 5:23:27
Named after Mount Snowdon, Snowdonia (Eryri in Welsh) is a mountainous region and national park in the northwest of Wales. Its wild landscapes and rugged peaks are steeped in history, and there are lots of things to do in Snowdonia.
The area was designated a national park (covering 823 square miles) in 1951 and is a popular destination for tourists, attracting over 6 million visitors each year. Apart from its historical sites, it is known for its excellent hiking, thundering waterfalls, serene lakes, and picturesque villages.
# Mount Snowdon
At 1,085 metres, Mount Snowdon is the highest peak in Wales and climbing it is one of the best things to do in Snowdonia. It is famous for its challenging hikes, associations with the Arthurian legend, and breathtaking views (you can see all the way to the Isle of Man, Scotland and Ireland on a clear day). Those not up to making the seven-hour-long hike up to the summit, can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway, and experience the stunning views from authentic Victorian-era carriages. The summit is also home to a café and visitor centre, Hafod Eryri.
# Conwy Castle
Built for King Edward I in 1283, to solidify English rule in Wales, Conwy Castle is one of the best surviving medieval fortifications in Europe. Built by Master James of St George, its high towers, fortified gates, and curtain walls are built on a narrow rocky outcrop. The castle’s battlements offer spectacular views across the mountains and sea.
# Llechwedd Slate Caverns
Located at Blaenau Ffestiniog, the Llechwedd Slate Caverns allow visitors to explore the underground world of a slate miner. Slate mining was one of the most prominent industries on North Wales between the early 1800s and the 1960s. The Miners’ Tramway Tour explores the skills needed to extract slate in the late nineteenth century, while the Deep Mine Tour lowers visitor 500 feet into the mountain to look at the vast underground caverns and a beautiful underground lake making this one of the most unique things to do in Snowdonia.
# The Waterfalls
There are many impressive waterfalls in Snowdonia. However, the most stunning are Conwy and Swallow Falls (pictured). Both are set amidst lush woodlands full of wildlife and are close to Betws-y-Coed. Conwy Falls is at the confluence of the Conwy and Machno, while Swallow Falls is set on the river Llugwy.
# Caernarfon Castle
Constructed on the order of Edward I in 1283, Caernarfon Castle was built to be an imposing symbol of the then new English rule in Wales. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the world’s finest surviving medieval castles and one of the best places to visit in Snowdonia. Caernarfon is also among the most important castles in the country.
# Port Meirion
This small yet vibrant Mediterranean-style village was built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975. Located near the River Dwyryd, it has a hotel, spa, restaurant, tea-room, beach, and numerous shops. It is one of the region’s most popular attractions and is known for its peaceful atmosphere. Port Meirion was also featured on the TV show ‘The Prisoner’.