Difficulty: Easy
Length: 7.49 km (4.66 miles)
Approx. duration: 2-2:30hrs
Parking: Paid (Google Maps)
Dogs: Yes – On lead near livestock
From Perthi Holiday Cottages: 25-minute drive
Starting from the high mountain pass at Pen y Pass, this there-and-back walk offers close-up views of Yr Wyddfa while leading past two of Snowdonia’s most beautiful lakes, Llyn Teyrn and Llyn Llydaw.
You’re in the right place if you’re looking for an accessible mountain walk with dramatic scenery from the outset, without a steep initial climb. The route follows clear paths and can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace, with the option to turn back at any point.
Beginning at the Pen y Pass car park beside the youth hostel, the walk immediately immerses you in classic Eryri scenery. The elevated starting point means the landscape feels expansive straight away, with steep slopes and rocky peaks rising around you.
The path passes the calm waters of Llyn Teyrn before continuing on to the larger and more dramatic Llyn Llydaw. Set beneath the towering cliffs of Yr Wyddfa, the lake offers one of the most striking mountain backdrops in the area and a natural place to pause and take in the views.
Scattered along the route are the remains of old mining buildings, adding atmosphere and a reminder of the area’s industrial past. From here, confident walkers can choose to explore further uphill, or simply retrace their steps and enjoy the scenery on the return.
Parking at Pen y Pass requires advance booking during busy periods (don’t arrive without a reservation expecting to find a space), but the area is well served by the Sherpa bus network, with regular services from Nant Peris, Beddgelert, and nearby villages. This makes the walk a practical option even when parking is limited.
“This is an underrated walk that doesn’t get talked about enough. It’s not a Snowdon ascent but it gets you right up close to Yr Wyddfa and inside the Horseshoe — the scenery is as dramatic as anything on the mountain itself, on a path that’s clear and well marked without being technically demanding. For anyone who wants to feel like they’re properly in the mountains without the full commitment of a summit, this is the one I’d point them towards.” — 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.
17th-Century Cottages in Beddgelert
Rated 4.98 on Airbnb from over 300 guest reviews
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.