This is a short hike (just 2.5 miles) but is reasonably demanding (because of its steep and uneven/boggy initial ascent). It's well worth the initial cardio-vasular push - because the waterfalls and forestry are charming and the vistas from the upland plateau, once you get there, are hugely rewarding.
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Manod Mawr and the Vale of Ffestiniog |
The upland circular walk goes through the unusual and picturesque Dduallt halt on the Ffestiniog Railway. There are some interesting railway artefacts, and it has a fascinating history.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjzaT3HA7Us-1HXyEmZLVzbndxqztm1c0Vl2ivj_9lt7PoQUACr75r8hyphenhyphenzA22hUmepvxysgGg_O1mBRWzC626p5tqVx9iXQG80dgcwd-FPyllHICtXGIRtnKlJg6wxgDyK7DPQBpE22OIo/s400/IMG_5862.JPG) |
Rhoslyn Cottage, (once the Dduallt stationmaster's house) |
The ascent and descent route passes through both the Coed Cymerau and Coed Maentwrog nature reserves. There are some rich woodlands and charming waterfalls - serene places to take a breather and let the heart rate slow down!
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Footbridge by the waterfall in Coed Cymerau |
The route has more than its fair share of ladder stiles (in good condition) and a few low post-and-wire stiles (which need a bit of ingenuity or dog agility) to traverse.
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Post-and-wire stile |
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Solved! |
There are a few sheep about in places, but mostly minding their own business and at at a distance from the route.
The landscape is also home to quite a number of buzzards.
It's possible (optionally) to extend the walk by a further half-mile, if walkers wish to visit a couple of additional viewpoints up at Dduallt.
- Follow A487 then A496 from Maentwrog towards BlaenauFfestiniog
- Fork left signposted Blaenau Ffestiniog A496 (and NOT B4391 up to Llan Ffestiniog )
- Layby is 0.5 miles ahead on the right. Landmarks at layby: Telephone kiosk, Red post box, Stone cottage called "Hen Felin"
Parking
Parking is roadside, in the
lay-by beside the A496 at Rhyd-y-Sarn. On a quiet day, there is room for about 8-10 cars there. Landmarks: red postbox; telephone kiosk; Stone cottage
Hen Felin, Rhyd-y-sarn, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 4HY