Barmouth to Dinas Mawddwy
Take a trip through the breathtaking Snowdonia National Park
Follow the route - Barmouth to Dinas Mawddwy
Barmouth to Llanbedr
> From Barmouth follow the A496 north to Llanbedr.
Visiting Llanbedr
At Llanfair, just to the north of Llanbedr on the A496, are the exciting slate caverns, where you can walk through the old workings and see the enormous Cathedral cavern, but be sure to wear warm clothing, as the temperature inside is normally 10°C (50°F) or below.
Places to stay in Llanbedr
Llanbedr to Harlech
> Continue along the A496 to Harlech.
Visiting Harlech
Harlech Castle is one of the most magnificently sited of Welsh castles, looking out over Cardigan Bay. It was built in the 13th century by Edward I to subdue the Welsh but was captured by Owain Glyndŵr in 1404. Harlech’s theatre presents a varied programme throughout the year.
Places to stay near Harlech
Harlech to Trawsfynydd
> Keep on along the A496, then turn off right on to the A487 for 2 miles (3km) before joining the A470 for Trawsfynydd.
Visiting Trawsfynydd
The lake here is a man-made reservoir which provided cooling water for the decommissioned nuclear power station. Nature trails have been created around the lake, and there is excellent fishing. To the south, along the A470, is the Trawsfynydd Holiday Village, an ideal centre for hiking and mountain biking.
Places to stay near Trawsfynydd
Trawsfynydd to Bala
> Drive into the hills along the A4212 to Bala.
Visiting Bala
Situated at the top of Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake), the largest natural lake in Wales, Bala has become a great water sports centre. Sailing, windsurfing, fishing and canoeing all take place on the River Tryweryn. The other big lake nearby is Llyn Celyn, a man-made reservoir, which supplies Liverpool with some of its water and is a popular trout-fishing lake. The Bala Lake Narrow Gauge Scenic Railway runs 4 1⁄2 miles (7km) to Llanuwchllyn through splendid scenery. Bala was the home of the Methodist cause and has retained much of its Welsh character and culture.
Places to stay in Bala
Bala to Lake Vyrnwy
> Leave Bala on the B4391, then follow the unclassified road southwards over the hills and on to the B4393 to Lake Vyrnwy.
Visiting Lake Vyrnwy
This vast reservoir was created in the late 19th century to supply Liverpool with water; the village of Llanwddyn was levelled to make way for it and rebuilt on higher ground. The lake and the surrounding woodlands are now a reserve of the RSPB. There is a small visitor centre, and nature trails and hides are provided to enable you to view the wildlife in the area, which includes red squirrels, polecats and badgers.
Places to stay near Lake Vyrnwy
Lake Vyrnwy to Dinas Mawddwy
> Continue along the B4393, then turn right on to a minor road to join the B4395. Turn right again on to the A458 through Mallwyd, then head north on the A470 to Dinas Mawddwy.
Visiting Dinas Mawddwy
This little village is an ideal base for outdoor holidays in the area. Meirion Mill Shop, an outlet for clothing and other crafts, is based at the old woollen mill. Pottery and slate goods are available as well as woollens, and the old railway line is a good place for a stroll.
