The Eryri National Park (Snowdonia)

The Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) has some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in Britain. Reaching south from the mighty Conwy Castle to the glorious River Dyfi, the park is 830 square miles of rugged peaks, steep river valleys and many lakes. It is dominated in the north by Snowdon – at 3,560 feet, the highest mountain in Wales and England – and by Cadair Idris in the south. The park’s nine mountain ranges are complemented by 40 miles of coastline with magnificent beaches and the Dyfi, Mawddach and Dwyryd estuaries.  There are ancient forests, Iron Age hill forts, Roman forts, 13th century castles and picturesque villages such as Betwys-y-Coed and Beddgelert. Great walking includes the Wales Coast Park and the North Wales Path and the Aber Falls family walk.

There is the famous Snowdon mountain railway from Llanberis, and the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland narrow gauge railways also offer stunning views. The park has exciting mountain biking and horse riding. There are 17 nature reserves in the national park. Rare wildlife includes otters and polecats, raven and osprey.