What to See in Snowdonia (Eryri): Snowdon, Castles and Itinerary

Mountains, glacial lakes, medieval castles and stone villages: the national park of Snowdonia, today officially called Eryri, Snowdonia is the jewel of North Wales. Here's what to see in Snowdonia, how to climb Snowdon, and our recommended itinerary. Based in the UK since 2012, we organize tailor-made trips to Wales.

In short: In Snowdonia (Eryri), don't miss the ascent of Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa, 1,085 m), either on foot or by cog railway from Llanberis, the village of Betws-y-Coed and Swallow Falls, the UNESCO-listed castles of Conwy and Caernarfon, and the Italian village of Portmeirion. Allow 3 to 4 days there, traveling by car.

Snowdonia or Eryri: which name to use?

Snowdonia National Park now primarily uses its Welsh name, Eryri, while Snowdon mountain is known as Yr Wyddfa. Both names, however, remain widely used, particularly by travelers.

UP TO YOU

What kind of traveler are you for? What to see in Snowdonia (Eryri): Snowdon, castles and itinerary "?

5 quick questions to see what suits you best.

Question 1 of 5

On the road, you're more of a…

Fewer stops, more time on siteMore steps to see more

Question 2 of 5

You mainly stop to…

The beautiful viewpointsVillages and good places

Question 3 of 5

Your ideal route?

Scenic country roadsSimple journeys between stages

Question 4 of 5

For nights, you prefer…

Stay 2 or 3 nights in the same placeChange often to move forward

Question 5 of 5

The best part of a road trip?

An impromptu detourA favorite stop

What to see in Snowdonia: the must-sees

Climbing Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa)

At 1,085 meters, Snowdon is the highest peak in Wales. Several trails lead to the summit, such as the Llanberis Path, the most gradual, or the more challenging Pyg Track. Allow 5 to 7 hours for the round trip. Alternatively, the Snowdon Mountain Railway, a cogwheel train, departs from Llanberis, seasonally and depending on the weather.

Betws-y-Coed and the Swallow Falls

The gateway to the park, the village of Betws-y-Coed, charms visitors with its stone houses, bridges, and forests. Just a few minutes away, Swallow Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the country.

Conwy and Caernarfon Castles

Built by King Edward I at the end of the 13th century, Conwy and Caernarfon castles form part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Their walls and towers are among the best preserved in Europe.

Portmeirion, the Italian village

On the coast, Portmeirion surprises with its colorful Italian-style houses, designed by the architect Clough Williams-Ellis in the 20th century.

For thrill-seekers

In addition, the region offers many activities: giant zip lines in old slate quarries, kayaking on the lakes or mountain biking in the forest.

Our 4-day Snowdonia itinerary

• Day 1: Conwy and its castle.
• Day 2: Ascent of Snowdon from Llanberis, on foot or by train.
• Day 3: Betws-y-Coed and the Swallow Falls.
• Day 4: Caernarfon and Portmeirion.

For a turnkey trip, discover our tour Castles, legends and landscapes of North Wales and our guide What to see in Wales. More information is available on the official website. Visit Wales.

Also read: What to do in Cardiff

Frequently Asked Questions about Snowdonia

Is Snowdon difficult to climb?

The Llanberis Path is accessible to hikers in good physical condition, without any technical difficulties. However, the weather changes quickly in the mountains: be sure to bring warm and waterproof clothing.

What is the best time to visit Snowdonia?

From May to September, the trails and the Snowdon train operate best. In spring and autumn, there are also fewer people.

How to get to Snowdonia from London?

Allow approximately 4 to 5 hours by road, or by train to Bangor or Betws-y-Coed. However, a car remains essential for exploring the park.

BRIGHTSIDE TRAVEL

Do you want to experience this trip?

Our local team creates your tailor-made itinerary in the UK and Ireland.

Create my trip