CRAFLWYN
Craflwyn Circular Walk
This is a fantastic walk if you want both variety and amazing mountain views without having to take on an arduous hike. At 4.1km, the circular route can be completed in a couple of hours but you will discover plenty of spots where you might want to linger. The walk takes you through woodland, across hillsides and past waterfalls. There are striking views across the valley from the higher points and the cascades towards the end are beautiful. This route is well-marked and so it is impossible to get lost and the terrain is ideal for dogs. You may find livestock grazing and so dogs are best kept on leads if they are likely to chase after the sheep.
Beginning from the National Trust’s Craflwyn Centre car park, the walk is one of several you can tackle from the same start point including the Legendary Trail of Dinas Emrys. Parking is free but the National Trust ask that you make a donation to help with the cost of maintaining the trail.
Duration: 2 hours if you don’t rush. Relatively steep ascent and a change in elevation of 212 metres.
Terrain: Woodland paths, rocky paths and grassland.
Starting Out
The trail begins at the back of the car park where there is a map of the route. Walk up the path and into the forest following the waymarkers with green arrows. After roughly 300 metres, the path splits and you need to take a left turn. The trail then climbs steeply through the trees but you will soon emerge into the open. At the edge of the forest, the path branches left through a gap in the wall. A short downhill section in open country will give your legs a break before the path climbs steeply upwards once more. After the point where you emerge from the woodland, you will enjoy stunning views over the valley.
You will eventually arrive at a ladder stile which can be tricky for dogs to negotiate. The trail continues across the hillside and affords views of Llyn Dinas, the Sygun Copper mine and Beddgelert. Vast expanses of bracken turn gold in the Autumn and you might be lucky enough to see some of the mountain goats that roam the area.
Picnic Spot
By the time you have tackled half of the walk, you might fancy a snack or a nice picnic. The perfect place to stop isn’t far away! The trail begins to descend through the bracken and past several small streams. There’s another stile to tackle but this one has a convenient gap for dogs right next to it. Just ahead, the waymarker directs you down and to the right but in front of you is a magnificent bench with amazing views. It’s well worth stopping here to enjoy your refreshments while soaking in the vista.
After a sandwich and a cuppa, rejoin the trail and work your way down towards the waterfalls. The path can get wet and boggy in the winter months and there is one section where a small stream runs town the trail. Take care not to slip! This wet portion of the route can be traversed in just a couple of minutes.
The Waterfall
Shortly before the end of this wonderful walk you will arrive at a pretty waterfall. Follow the trail down the steps adjacent to the falls and past the small stream. This is another fabulous place to linger if you have the time. Dogs absolutely love splashing about in the stream and small pond. Indeed, this is one of our dogs’ favourite places to be!
After admiring the falls, continue along the trail through the lovely woodland. You will pass a spectacular wooden bench with a dragon carved into it. The bench is crafted from teak root and you can but one just like it from Beddgelert Woodcraft where you will discover a wonderful array of beautiful things. Check out our guide to the Legendary Trail of Dinas Emrys for a picture of the dragon bench.
When you return to the car park, there’s a toilet and waste bins if you need them. At the end of the building to your left, you will find a small exhibition featuring interesting information about the area and maps of the trails.
Directions
From the Woollen Mill, Drive to Penygroes and then turn right at the COOP store. Turn right at the next T Junction and then right again at the next T Junction. Follow this road past Nantlle and up into the mountains. You will eventually arrive at the Village of Rhyd DDu where you should turn right towards Beddgelert. When you arrive in Beddgelert, follow the road through the village and go straight on at the bridge. Continue on this road for roughly a mile and you will see the car park on the left.
