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Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 6.32 km (3.93 miles)

Approx. duration: 2-2:30hrs

Parking: Free (Google Maps)

Dogs: Yes – On lead near livestock

From Perthi Holiday Cottages: 6-minute drive

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This enjoyable circular walk is one we put together ourselves, linking forest tracks, a lakeside causeway at Llyn y Gadair, and open hillside walking close to Snowdon — with a traditional pub stop at Rhyd Ddu along the way.

You’re in the right place if you’re looking for a varied but manageable walk with gentle climbs, good paths, and the welcome option of a pub stop along the way.

Leaving Beddgelert, the route winds through sections of Beddgelert Forest, where quiet tracks and woodland paths create a sheltered and peaceful start to the walk. The forest gives way to more open scenery as the path approaches Llyn y Gadair.

A highlight of the route is the crossing of the Llyn y Gadair causeway, with water on either side and wide views across the surrounding hills. This is a particularly scenic section and a natural place to pause before continuing on.

From here, the walk leads towards Rhyd Ddu, where there is the chance to stop at the Cwellyn Arms for a drink or a meal. This traditional pub makes a welcome break and adds a relaxed, social element to the walk.

After leaving Rhyd Ddu, the route climbs gently towards the lower slopes of Yr Wyddfa before turning back towards Beddgelert. The final section descends gradually, bringing the walk to a satisfying close after a varied circuit of woodland, water, and open hillside.

“This is a walk we put together ourselves and it’s one of my favourites for guests who want something varied without it being too demanding. You get the forest, the causeway with water on both sides, you’re right up close to Snowdon without climbing it, and there’s an old-fashioned pub in the middle of it all. It’s easy enough for most people and never feels crowded.” — 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.

The start of the walk and parking is just off the A4085 towards Caernarfon, around two miles outside Beddgelert village on the left-hand side, signposted for Beddgelert Forest.
Parking is possible right next to the main road or there is another car park if you follow the gravel road. To start your walk go through the gates that cross the train track.
Keep following the track uphill until you come to a junction signposted Rhyd Ddu. Follow this path right, through the woods, until you reach Llyn y Gadair.
Keep following the path with the lake on your right hand side. Don't turn off left.
Cross the main road and go past the toilet block following the yellow waymarks for Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon).
It is possible to take a break here by following the path down into the centre of the village where you will find the Cwellyn Arms pub.
After crossing the train track, the path meanders up towards the summit of Snowdon. However, at the crossroads pictured, take the turning right which leads you back down towards your car.
Follow the path down, passing behind the farm, until you arrive back at the main road where you started your 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.