Walk the Welsh Highland Railway
Highlights
- Explore the Snowdonia National Park and enjoy the idyllic natural beauty of the park
- Explore the short heritage rail journey to Nantmor, ancient woodland and the beautiful Llyn Dinas.
- Visit the picturesque village of Beddgelert following the course of the river, passing the Sygun Copper mine
- Take the Heritage train to Rhyd Ddu and visit the Cwellyn Arms.
Overview
You begin on the coast at Porthmadog, with your accommodation a short walk from the marina before heading into the Snowdonia National Park. The walks will take you through the idyllic natural beauty of the park, through woodland, along ridges and rivers, across moorland and beside lakes to end with the summit of Snowdon at 1,085m, the highest point in the British Isles outside the Scottish Highlands. Routes are planned to combine walking with sections of travel on the Welsh Highland Railway (tickets included), allowing more distance to be covered.
- Day 1 - Arrive in Porthmadog
On arrival in the coastal town of Porthmadog head out for a stroll around the marina before finding somewhere to eat near the guesthouse. Stay overnight at Yr Hen Fecws Guesthouse (Breakfast included)
- Day 2 - Porthmadog (Nantmor) to Beddgelert
Take the short heritage rail journey to Nantmor from where you head, up and over, through ancient woodland and across the moor to beautiful Llyn Dinas. You follow the course of the river, passing the Sygun Copper mine on to the picturesque village of Beddgelert. Stay overnight at Plas Tan y Graig B&B Guesthouse (Breakfast included)
- Day 3 - At Beddgelert
From the day you arrived you'll have seen Moel Hebog rising above Beddgelert. Today you will enjoy a circular hike from the picturesque village and through the surrounding farmland before making an ascent towards the summit before it opens out onto a plateau. Enjoy a grassy descent down the other side, winding through Beddgelert forest before returning to the village. Stay overnight at Plas Tan y Graig B&B Guesthouse (Breakfast included)
- Day 4 - Beddgelert to Rhyd Ddu
Spend time this morning exploring the small shops and cafes in the village, before a gentle stroll via Gelert's grave, the faithful hound to 13th century Llewelyn, prince of North Wales, to your next train station. Take the Heritage train to Rhyd Ddu and walk on to your overnight stop, the Cwellyn Arms. Stay overnight at Cwellyn Arms (Breakfast and evening meal included)
- Day 5 - At Rhyd Ddu
Today's hike begins with a big climb but it's worth the effort. Nantlle Ridge is a stunning ridge walk with views across the water to Anglesey and inland towards Snowdon: a sneak peak of what tomorrow has in store. Stay overnight at Cwellyn Arms (Breakfast and evening meal included)
- Day 6 - Snowdon
The grand finale. Your final hike ascends the Rhyd Ddu path to Snowdon’s summit. Take time at the top to enjoy the 360° views before descending via the Ranger’s path, you’ll finish at the Snowdon Ranger’s station before taking the Heritage train on to your final destination, Caernarfon. Stay overnight at Celtic Royal Hotel (Breakfast included)
- Day 7 - Depart after breakfast
Explore the grand medieval town of Caernarfon, with its mighty castle, pretty harbour and views across the Menai Strait to Anglesey before departing.
- 6 nights in a mix of guesthouse, inn and hotel accommodation
- All breakfasts and 2 dinners
- 3 x Walking transfers on the Welsh HIghland Railway
- Flights are not included
- Gratuities
- Travel and medical insurance;