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Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 6.79 km (4.22 miles)

Approx. duration: 2-3hrs

Parking: Paid (Google Maps)

Dogs: Yes – On lead near livestock

From Perthi Holiday Cottages: 1-hour drive

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This popular circular walk leads to Aber Falls (Rhaeadr Fawr), one of North Wales’ most impressive waterfalls, combining woodland paths, open hillside, and wide views towards the coast and Anglesey.

You’re in the right place if you’re looking for a well-defined, rewarding walk to a dramatic natural landmark, suitable for most walkers and offering plenty of interest without venturing into high mountain terrain.

The route climbs gently through lush woodland at the edge of the Carneddau, following clear paths as the sound of falling water grows louder. The approach to Aber Falls builds anticipation before the waterfall comes fully into view, plunging dramatically from the cliffs above.

Beyond the falls, the circular route opens out into a more expansive landscape, with views stretching across the coast and out towards Anglesey on clear days. Wild ponies are often seen grazing on the surrounding hillsides, adding to the character of the walk.

Due to its popularity, this walk can be busy at weekends and during school holidays, with car parks filling early and local roads becoming congested. Visiting early in the day or outside peak times offers a quieter experience.

Aber Falls is around a 45-minute-1 hour drive from Beddgelert, making it a worthwhile half-day outing for those looking to explore beyond the immediate area while still enjoying one of Snowdonia’s standout natural sights.

“We’ve included this one because so many guests ask about it — and it deserves its reputation. We’ve made the route circular rather than there-and-back because the return section genuinely adds to the walk, with better open views across to the sea and Anglesey that most people miss by turning back at the falls. That said, come midweek or early if you can — at weekends it can be really busy and the car park fills fast.” — Delyth, Perthi Holiday Cottages

Our 17th-century cottages sit just above Beddgelert, with walking routes straight from the door.

Step-by-Step Walk Guide

Numbered steps with photos to help you follow the route.

From the lower car park, go through the gate and follow the path beside the river, keeping to the yellow waymarker signs.
A well maintained path climbs very gradually uphill and you will see the falls in the distance.
After viewing the falls at the end of the path retrace your steps and drop down to the river on your left and cross the bridge. Go up the stone steps on the other side.
At the top of the steps go through the gate and follow the path away from the falls. Along the path you will cross another bridge where there is another smaller waterfall.
Stay on the wider grassy path which curves back towards Abergwyngregyn and the sea. Don't take the left fork which takes you up towards the mountains.
Cross the stones over the river and keep following the path. It splits in two (pictured), take the bottom drier path. Keep following the path very gradually uphill towards the pylons.
Go through this gate and immediately turn down right. Follow the clearest widest path downhill.
When you reach this yellow waymarker follow it down right. The path gets steep (and slippery when wet) and it takes you all the way back to Abergwyngregyn village.
Turn right through the gate and follow the road back up to your car to complete the walk.

17th-Century Cottages in Beddgelert

Rated 4.98 on Airbnb from over 300 guest reviews

Ty Hebog historical barn conversion exterior at Perthi in Beddgelert Cosy log burner interior at Ty Hebog cottage Luxury king size bedroom with original historic character at Ty Felin water mill

Stay in a converted water mill, a historic barn or a mountain lodge on Delyth’s family farm above the village — with wide Eryri views and walking routes from the door.