Snowdonia Itinerary
The Snowdonia Road Trip is a 65 mile journey through some of the most beautiful scenery in Wales. Starting in Betws y Coed and ending in Bangor, the trip takes you through the towns of Beddgelert, Caernarfon and Capel Curig. The best time to drive this route is in the spring and summer months, when the stunning landscapes come alive with colour and wildlife. You will experience breathtaking views of Snowdonia National Park and the Llyn Peninsula. Be aware that the road conditions can be poor in some areas and there may be seasonal closures due to the weather. But with a bit of careful driving, you can enjoy the experience and create memories that will last a lifetime. Although this road trip can be done on a budget, it will provide you with a very high level of experience and memories. This is a trip suitable for all drivers, so take your time and enjoy the journey.
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number of days
111 km
route length
high
budget
tourist
good for
on the left
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Betws y Coed
Distance 111 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: modest
28.8 kWh
Airports
LPL
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VLY
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Betws y Coed, Wales, is a great starting point for the Snowdonia Road Trip. The town is situated in the Conwy Valley, surrounded by lush green hills and woodlands and is the gateway to the Snowdonia National Park. It offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors to explore – from its tree-lined streets and quaint shops to its beautiful riverside walks. The town is also home to a number of historic sites and has a variety of excellent restaurants and pubs.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Manchester Airport (MAN). There are a variety of car rental companies located at the airport, making it easy to pick up a car and begin the journey. Once on the road, visitors can explore the stunning countryside as they make their way to Betws y Coed.
Once in Betws y Coed, visitors can explore the town’s many attractions. These include the iconic Swallow Falls, the beautiful Gwydir Forest, and the famous Pont-y-Pair bridge. There are also a number of ancient castles and churches to explore, as well as a variety of museums and art galleries.
The Snowdonia Road Trip is an unforgettable experience. From Betws y Coed, visitors can explore the spectacular scenery of Snowdonia National Park and discover the stunning landscapes of North Wales. With so much to see and do, the town of Betws y Coed is the perfect place to start an adventure.
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Betws y Coed
- Beddgelert
Distance 28 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: modest
7.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Take a road trip through the stunning Welsh countryside, starting in Betws y Coed and ending in Beddgelert. On the 17mi drive, you'll take in the spectacular views of Snowdonia National Park. The journey will take less than an hour, and you'll find plenty of historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads to explore along the way. Look out for steep ramps and narrow roads in some sections, and please note that some roads may be closed seasonally. Make sure to check the itinerary for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Beddgelert - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Beddgelert - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikipedia
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2
Beddgelert
- Caernarfon
Distance 21 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: modest
5.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an incredible journey through the breathtaking Snowdonia National Park, starting in the quaint town of Beddgelert. Along the 13 miles of winding roads, you will be mesmerized by the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The drive to Caernarfon takes less than an hour, and you will want to make sure to take your time to appreciate the beauty of the area. You will pass through some narrow sections of the road, so keep your eyes peeled for any historical sites or scenic roads. Make sure to take a moment to admire the views of the mountains and valleys as you drive. As you reach your destination in Caernarfon, you will be rewarded with more stunning views. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Caernarfon - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - www.needpix.com
Caernarfon - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - www.flickr.com
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3
Caernarfon
- Capel Curig
Distance 37 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: fast
11.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip starting in Caernarfon, Wales and leading through Snowdonia National Park to Capel Curig? This 19mi-long journey will take you less than an hour to complete and you will experience some of the most stunning views in the UK. The route offers a variety of scenic roads, with some sections closed seasonally. You should be aware of the steep ramps and narrow roads in some sections. You will be mesmerized by the lush green valleys, the dramatic mountains and the stunning views of the sea. You can also enjoy the peaceful lakes and rivers and the quaint villages. Don't forget to take a break and admire the breathtaking views of Snowdonia National Park. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Capel Curig - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Capel Curig - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Capel Curig
- Bangor
Distance 26 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: modest
6.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip starting in Capel Curig, Wales. This 16-mile journey takes you through the stunning Snowdonia National Park and ends in Bangor. On this route, you'll be able to take in the breathtaking views of the Welsh countryside and make stops at some of the most interesting places.
Your trip begins at the picturesque Capel Curig, where you can explore the ruins of the old St. Julitta's Church. Then, you'll continue your journey through Snowdonia National Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty. Along the way, you'll be able to take in the spectacular views of the mountains and valleys. Be sure to keep an eye out for the narrow roads and seasonal closures.
When you reach Bangor, you'll be able to explore the city's rich history and culture. From the ruins of Bangor Cathedral to the Victorian-era pier, there's plenty to explore.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Bangor - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikipedia
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Bangor
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Bangor is the perfect end point for your Snowdonia Road Trip. Located in the heart of North Wales, it's the ideal place to spend some time and relax after your journey. The city has plenty to offer, from its historic buildings to its vibrant nightlife.
Start your day with a visit to the Bangor Cathedral, one of the oldest and most beautiful buildings in the city. Then, take a stroll along the Bangor waterfront, where you can admire the stunning views of the Menai Strait. Afterwards, explore the city's vibrant shops and restaurants.
For those looking for a bit of adventure, Bangor is also home to some great outdoor activities. Take a hike through the gorgeous Snowdonia National Park, or explore the nearby Beaumaris Castle. There's also a range of water sports available, from sailing to kayaking.
For those planning to fly, the closest international airport to Bangor is the Cardiff International Airport (CWL). From there, it's just a two-hour drive to the city.
Bangor is the perfect place to end your Snowdonia Road Trip. With its stunning scenery, historic sites, and vibrant culture, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Bangor - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - Flickr
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Snowdonia at a glance
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Start:
Betws y Coed
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End:
Bangor
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Distance:
111 km
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Stay:
2 days
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Getting there:
Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL),
Anglesey Airport (VLY)
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When to drive:
June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Snowdonia Road Trip, an enchanting 65-mile journey that weaves through the heart of Wales' rugged beauty, commencing in the woodland paradise of Betws y Coed and concluding in the historic city of Bangor. This route is a tapestry of charming villages, majestic mountains, and breathtaking natural wonders, guiding travelers through the idyllic settings of Beddgelert, the imposing fortress town of Caernarfon, and the panoramic vistas near Capel Curig.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Betws y Coed: This quaint town is the gateway to Snowdonia National Park, offering visitors a chance to witness the convergence of three rivers and explore the serene Gwydyr Forest with its enchanting waterfalls like Swallow Falls.
- Beddgelert: Nestled in the heart of Snowdonia, this picturesque hamlet is steeped in Welsh folklore, notably the legend of Gelert's Grave, where a loyal hound was wrongfully slain by its master.
- Caernarfon: The town is dominated by the impressive Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fine example of medieval military architecture, built by Edward I in the 13th century.
- Capel Curig: Located in the Snowdonia National Park, it offers awe-inspiring views of the surrounding peaks, notably Mount Snowdon and the Glyderau range.
- Snowdonia National Park: Traverse this rugged landscape to discover Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales at 3,560 feet, which can be ascended on foot or via the Snowdon Mountain Railway.
- Llyn Peninsula: The peninsula is renowned for its captivating coastline with hidden coves and expansive beaches, offering a tranquil escape and remarkable sunsets over the Irish Sea.
Best Time to Go:
Spring and summer, with their milder weather, provide the ideal backdrop for this expedition, enhancing the vibrant hues of the countryside and the opportunity to witness local wildlife such as peregrine falcons and Welsh mountain ponies in their natural habitat.
Potential Risks:
- Navigating narrow and winding Roads requires attention, especially during inclement weather.
- Be mindful of seasonal Road closures, particularly in winter due to snow or ice.
- The weather in Wales can be unpredictable; adequate preparation is essential for a safe and enjoyable Trip.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The route is accessible for drivers of all skill levels, with no specialized vehicles required.
- The Road Trip can cater to various budgets without sacrificing the richness of the experience.
- It's advised to pace yourself to immerse in the stunning landscapes and historical sites offered along the route.
A good choice for:
A Snowdonia Road Trip is an unforgettable escapade that not only showcases the sheer beauty of Welsh landscapes but also immerses travelers in the deep-rooted culture and history of Wales. It stands as a testament to the allure of Road Tripping and is a quintessential experience for those who seek to explore the breadth of the UK's natural and cultural offerings.