Overview
A breath-taking mix of scenery with mountains, valleys and beaches interspersed with castles, Industrial Revolution slate quarries with plenty for the adrenalin junkie, the serious hiker or those seeking quiet contemplation of this area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Sychnant Pass Road
Running westerly from Conwy along the wide valley on the south side of Conwy mountain, with its Neolithic stone circles and the iron age hill fort of Caer Seion it offers some great scenery and walking trails. As an old coaching route there are some great hostelries along the way.
Penrhyn Castle
The National Trust acquired this large country house and gardens, designed as a Norman castle, in the 1950’s. The interior is filled with collections of fine art and the extensive gardens benefit from views towards Snowdonia and the Irish Sea as well as exotic plants from the 19th century plant hunters bringing specimens to the then head gardener Walter Speed.
Bangor
A vibrant University town with plenty of places to stay and eat. It is an excellent base for exploring the area and on the doorstep Bangor’s pier, The Garth, offers views over the Menai Strait to the suspension bridge or back to Snowdonia. The city has a number of museums and galleries to explore.
Caernarfon
Dominated by the 13th century castle, another of Edward 1’s ring of fortresses, and probably the most formidable, the old town is surrounded by city walls with the narrow streets offering plenty of shopping opportunities. The castle is also home to the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum. Visit nearby Segontium Roman fort ruins
Llanberis
Set at the foot of Snowdon and between the lakes of Llyn Padarn and Llyn Peris on the Llanberis Pass route this is a scenic must. Hike or catch the railway up Mount Snowdon for spectacular views of Snowdonia National Park and its rugged crags partly impacted by an industrial history of slate mining. Nearby are the ruins of Dolbadarn Castle built by the Welsh princes of Gwynedd.
Penrhyn Quarry
At one time the largest slate quarry in the world and through the development of Zip World and Velocity 2 – the fastest zip line in the world and the longest in the Northern Hemisphere - a new tourist destination. Well worth a visit to either try the experience or watch others travelling past as you enjoy a drink or something to eat.
Capel Curig
The twin lakes, Llynnau Mymbyr are about 4 miles longs and drain into the River Llugwy at Capel Curig on its way to the Conwy Valley. The panorama of mountains, moorland and rushing streams and still lakes can excite the walker or watcher alike, whatever the weather.
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