Gentle amble with gorgeous scenery
Both Beddgelert and Llyn Dinas are simply stunning, so why not walk from one to the other? This walk is on level ground and so is more of a stroll but it does deliver gorgeous views throughout. The route takes you through the village and long the river to the wonderful lake where you can extend the walk by continuing on the path alongside the water. A great choice if you don’t fancy a strenuous hike, this walk boasts the feel-good factor. Dogs should be kept on leads untgil you reach Llyn Dinas as there are sheep about and there are cars on the lanes. The walk to the lake and back is roughly four miles in length.
Duration: 90 minutes from the car park to the the lake and back.
Terrain: Roads and gravel pathways.
Starting Out
The walk begins in the pretty village of Beddgelert where there are several cafes and restaurants that you could visit for lunch or drinks before or after the walk. It’s best to park in the small car park that is located on the left just before the Saracens Head Hotel as you enter the village on the A4085. Exit the car park, turn left and walk to the stone bridge. Pass over the bridge and then turn left and walk by the river to the footbridge which you cross and then turn left. Follow the footpath past the green and the end of the terrace of cottages, cross the road and then pass through the gate. Walk alongside the river and then through the next gate. Bear right and follow the lane until you reach the Sygun Copper Mine.
The Copper Mine
When you reach the Sygun Copper Mine, it is worth taking the tour but if you are short on time or wish to stay above ground, turn left and walk towards the river. You will see a gate to your right just before the road crosses the bridge. Pass through the gate and continue on the footpath through open countryside with lovely views of the river and the mountains. You will eventually arrive at a wooden gate which is the entrance to Llyn Dinas. It is worth taking the stroll around the lake but you could choose to stay near the entrance. The lake water is surprisingly warm in the summer months (mid-May to early September) and so is perfect for swimming.
Llyn Dinas
One of the most beautiful spots in North Wales, Llyn Dinas should not be missed. You might wish to linger at the lake and when it is hot, you could stay all day and take a few swims. On cooler days, you could take the path to the left just after the entrance and walk up to Cwm Bychan (pronounced Coomb Buchan) from where there are incredible view over Snowdonia. When you wish to return to Beddgelert, simply retrace your steps long the path, past the cooper mine and back to the village.
Directions
From the Woollen Mill, drive to Penygroes and then turn right at the crossroads. 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, you will see a car park on the right just before the Saracens Head Hotel. The payment machine only takes coins. The charge is currently £3.30 for up to 4 hours. You can park all day for £4.45.
