9 Things To Do In and Around Snowdonia

Snowdonia is renowned for being one of the most beautiful landscapes in the UK. Also known as Eryri, the national park covers a whopping 823 square miles. There are so many people who live and work in the area, and there is so much to do, that we picked out 9 activities to participate in while you visit this stunning part of the world.

Hiking

Let’s start with the obvious, right? Mount Snowdon is one of the biggest mountains in the UK, and this region attracts millions of people every year to tackle this challenging and breathtaking route. The summit of Yr Wyddfa has six paths that you can take. These include:

• Llanberis
• Miners
• Pyg
• Watkin
• Rhyd Ddu
• Snowdon Ranger

There are other trails you can do in the area, but make sure you have all the right equipment before embarking on this journey. Wear the right footwear, check the weather, and take a map and compass, as conditions can change quickly. If you take the appropriate precautions, you are in for a real treat.

Wild swimming and waterfalls

Snowdonia is a fantastic place for wild swimming if you want to enjoy the landscape but don’t fancy hiking. Llyn Du’r Arddu on the Llanberis Path, the Blue Pool in Friog, and Llyn Gwynant and Llyn Dinas are all great places to take a dip and take a swim on the wild side. There is also the Watkins Path Waterfall if you don’t want to get wet and want to witness this spectacular natural phenomenon. Other waterfalls include the Rhaeadr Fawr (Aber Falls), Rhaeadr Ewynnol (Swallow Falls), the Conwy Falls at Fairy Glen, and Ceunant Mawr Waterfall.

Surfing

You would normally associate surfing with exotic countries such as Australia, right? Well, not to worry! Because the Adventure Parc contains an inland surf lagoon that is believed to be the first in the UK. This freshwater lagoon generates powerful waves every day, so you don’t need to concern yourself with the weather to ride the waves. If you did want to venture outside, surf spots are available in the right weather conditions along the natural coastline.

Zip World

Want to take your adventure to the next level? Zip World has a host of ziplining activities, including the fastest in the world at Penrhyn Quarry. Quarry karts, high rope courses, and tours are also included for adrenaline junkies who want to sample this exciting and beautiful landscape to the extreme.

Slate caverns and copper mines

The Llechwedd Slate Caverns are home to the underground Bounce Below trampolines and the world's deepest underground adventure golf course. The Sygun Copper Mine also offers adventure activities that are ideal when the weather is pounding outside, because you can just stay under the Earth! You can also bask in the stunning vistas and incredible history that these locations offer, with plenty of expert guidance available to tell you how these areas were formed and what they helped to create.

Stunningly scenic railways

The Snowdon Mountain Railway is unlike any other journey you will ever undertake. This railway adventure secures breathtaking views atop the summits of Snowdonia, which is ideal for children and those with mobility issues. The Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways takes you along ancient woodlands and stunning coastlines, with mountains, rivers, and castles all providing a feast for the eyes. The Llanberis Lake Railway is another possibility, which is a shorter five-mile return journey into the heart of Snowdonia.

National White Water Centre

The National White Water Centre is based in Snowdonia, offering lots of fun and adrenaline-packed activities for water lovers. White water rafting, canyoning, and kayaking are among the experiences people can book if they want an unforgettable and different experience in this area. Located in Bala, competitions are regularly held, but it is not just for those who want extreme adventure. There are more tranquil activities that take in the landscapes, wildlife, and history of this fascinating region.

Mountain biking

If you want to keep it natural, there are trails on Yr Wyddfa itself, but there are purpose-built ones at Coed y Brenin and Antur Stiniog. Coed y Brenin was the first trail centre in the UK and has options for all abilities and ages. Antur Stiniog focuses more on downhill routes and even offers uphill-assisted trails. Throughout Snowdonia, there are 90 miles of routes, which are similar to skiing in that some are more like green runs, and some are more akin to black runs.

Visit the towns and villages around Snowdonia

There are a host of different towns and villages in this area, including:

• Bangor - Connected to Anglesey by a suspension bridge, this university city has a cathedral and is great for shopping
• Caernarfon - The beautiful harbour has an imposing and stunning castle that overlooks this incredible market town
• Conwy - This walled town is home to the smallest house in Great Britain - the Quay House - and it has a famous castle
• Dolgellau - There are lots of outdoor activities here towards the southern edge of the national park
• Machynlleth - This market town is renowned for its rich history that you can sink your teeth into

Other noteworthy places to visit in the area include Llanberis, Betws-y-Coed, Beddgelert, Portmeirion, and Capel Curig.