This varied circular walk begins right from your doorstep at Perthi Holiday Cottages, leading you through the tranquil woodlands of Craflwyn Estate — a place steeped in Welsh legend and history. Once part of a 19th-century estate, Craflwyn is now managed by the National Trust and known for its rich biodiversity and mythical associations with Dinas Emrys, the legendary site where the red and white dragons fought, as told in the tales of Merlin. You’ll pass through mossy forests and winding paths that open out to beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
Continuing on, the trail passes by the entrance of Sygun Copper Mine, a restored Victorian mine that once played a crucial role in the local economy. Today, it offers a glimpse into the area’s industrial past, with underground tunnels and exhibits detailing the lives of the miners who worked there.
For those wanting a longer adventure, this walk can be extended to visit the Watkin Path pools — crystal-clear mountain pools perfect for a refreshing dip on warmer days. The extended route follows the scenic route from Craflwyn and is detailed on our website. You can also detour to explore Dinas Emrys, adding a mythical and historical element to your walk — a short climb rewards you with stunning views and a sense of ancient mystery.
This route offers a little of everything: woodlands, legends, industrial heritage, and the option for added adventure.
Please note: the path can be wet and uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is essential.
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.
Begin the walk outside Ty Hebog next to the cattle grid down. Don't go over the cattle grid but follow the path left (pictured) towards the field.
Walk diagonally to the other side of the field. You will see a steep grassy path in the distance (pictured). Ascend the path.
At the top of the path you will arrive at two gates. Don't go through the first gate on your right. Go through the gate straight in front of you (please close the gate afterwards). Follow the path rightwards going over the river towards the weather mast, keeping the wall on your right.
Keep following the quad bike tracks until these start going uphill (don't follow uphill). From here if you look downwards towards the corner of the field you will see a broken gate (pictured). Go over this gate (be careful of the barbed wire).
The path from here is fairly faint. Just make sure you keep quite close to the fence on your left. When the fence turns into a stone wall the path veers slightly away from the wall, then you will arrive at the clear way marked Craflwyn path.
The path here is fairly undulating. Going through some gates and over stiles until you arrive at a junction which is way marked (pictured). Here you will need to follow the path downwards to your right. The path to the left continues to the Watkin Pools.
The path meanders downhill, the path is uneven and wet so take care. You will pass the iconic chair (pictured) with great views of the Nant Gwynant valley.
Keep following the path downwards all the way to Craflwyn car park. Here, take a left pass the farm buildings and information centre towards Craflwyn Hall. Follow the car track pass the hall along the drive towards the main road.
At the main road, look right and you will see a gap in the wall (pictured). Cross the road and follow this path along the river towards Sygun Copper mine.
Follow the road up towards Sygun. However, instead of going up to Sygun the road veers rightwards towards Beddgelert along a quiet back road.
Along this road you will see a campsite on your right. At the Beddgelert end of the campsite there is a gate (pictured) that takes you off the quiet road and cuts across the campsite back to the main road. After passing the small lake take the campsite road to your left.
At the main road and the entrance to the campsite turn right along the main road. There is no pavement so take care. After about 75 meters cross the road and you will see a signpost the path back up to the cottages (pictured).
Walk up the drive next to the house (pictured) and the path starts through the gate behind the barn.
As you arrive at the top of the hill you will see Perthi across the fields. Follow the yellow way marker which guides you along next to the wall and through the gate and up to the sheep pen behind the house. Go through the sheep pen and through the field behind the main farmhouse back to the start point.
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.
