Hike - Aberglasllyn Woods and the Fisherman’s Path


Stunning views from a high viewpoint; interesting woodland sculptures; spectacular riverside walk along rock-hewn ledges.

                      

Route: Starting (and finishing) at Gelert’s Grave, this fairly strenuous 3 mile hike climbs up the valley side to a viewpoint at a ruined lookout post high above Aberglaslyn Pass.
The ruins of the lookout post
The route then descends steeply through the Aberglaslyn woodlands.  At one point in the woods there are a number of sympathetic woodland scultures.


Leaving the woods, the route then crosses the river at Pont Aberglaslyn, and returns to Beddgelert along the Fisherman’s Path.


Beddgelert village takes its name from the supposed burial site of Gelert, the legendary hound of Prince Llewelyn. The "grave" is well signposted, in the meadows along the riverside.

Statue of Gelert, near the grave
Obstacles: Strenuous in places; footpath surface is highly uneven in places; several flights of steps in Aberglaslyn Woods; short 100 yard stretch of narrow main A498 road (without sidewalk) to negotiate at Aberglaslyn Bridge.

Fisherman's Path (beside river) has several rocky ledges and steps, each well furnished with handrails and hand-holds.
Rocky ledge on the Fisherman's Path
Parking: Beddgelert has two principal car parks, both chargeable, one beside the Royal Goat Hotel / Wales Highland Railway station, and the other opposite the primary school. Both car parks are just a short walk from the village centre and onward to the riverside meadows where Gelert's Grave is located.

Parking is also available at Aberglaslyn in the National Trust's Nantmor car park.

Nantmor car park and toilets
Public transport: Beddgelert has regular bus services throughout the day.

In season, the Wales Highland Railway services call at both Nantmoor Halt and Beddgelert Station. It is therefore possible to use this short rail journey to shorten the walk and return to the starting point.

Facilities: Beddgelert has several cafes and pubs. The Saracen's Head is dog-friendly.

Refreshment (at the Royal Goat)... and a snooze!
Beddgelert public toilets (open all year) are in Stryd Smith, well signposted in the village centre.  Public toilets are also available at Aberglaslyn in the National Trust's Nantmor car park.