Hike among Wales’ rugged, silent giants — Southern Snowdonia

Southern Snowdonia is a region of wild, rugged mountains and beautiful green hills. Far away from the crowds that flock to Snowdon and the Glyderau, this is a region for hiking connoisseurs seeking spectacular scenery, stunning wildlife, silent summits and blissful solitude.

Of course, a land as rich in natural splendour as this is not without its own popular peaks and trails. Mountains like the iconic, sprawling Cadair Idris and Cnicht – often called ‘the Welsh Matterhorn’ – draw hikers from far and wide and are worthy of their fame. Yet, it is perhaps the lesser known places that offer the greater satisfaction.

The breathlessly rough and dramatic Rhinogydd range throws down a gauntlet to all that would enter its challenging realm. The towering Aran ridge, home to the highest peak in Britain south of Snowdon, is a majestic place to explore. Trails through the Coed Ganllwyd and Cwm Cynfal nature reserves discover atmospheric woodland, cascading streams and waterfalls of sublime beauty. Meanwhile, the Dyfi Hills’ elegant curves bear all the fascinating hallmarks of an ancient glacial past.

This Collection explores all of this, taking in a host of adventures that truly get to know Southern Snowdonia’s multi-faceted charm. I’ve listed the Tours in order of difficulty, with the easier walks first and the more challenging mountain days at the end. It’s not necessarily a ‘best of’ for the region but a Collection with something for everyone, from the casual country walker to the avid peak bagger.

All of the longer mountain hikes take you to rough, exposed terrain, so equipping yourself properly is crucial. Quality hiking footwear, warm layers and waterproofs are required regardless of the season or weather forecast. You should also carry plenty of water and more food than you think you’ll need, just in case.

The town of Dolgellau is an excellent base for much of Southern Snowdonia, with many accommodation options and amenities. For the Rhinogydd, the lovely seaside town of Barmouth is better located and easier to reach. Meanwhile, for Cnicht and the Afon Cynfal waterfall walk, the attractive village of Beddgelert or the historic mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog are ideal.

Barmouth is accessible by train from Birmingham and Aberystwyth. From the town, you can catch the T3 bus to Dolgellau. Beddgelert can be reached via the Snowdon Sherpa bus service, which links to the city of Bangor, which is on the North Wales Coast railway line. Blaenau Ffestiniog can be accessed via the historic, narrow gauge Ffestiniog Railway from the harbour town of Porthmadog.