Madog Walks Group

4 mile hike skirting across the slopes of the Moelwyns, using a very convenient old tramway bed. The start point from the road is already quite high, which makes the onward ascent towards Moelwyn Mawr much easier. Old tramway Parking is roadside on the gated minor road between Tan-y-Bwlch and Croesor , uphill from the entrance to Penrallt (farm). Parking at roadside summit of minor road                                        What to bring Wear stout footwear, and expect it to be boggy in places. Bring a packed lunch, which we can eat while resting high up on the tramway, whilst admiring the sweeping view down to Croesor. Moelwyn Bach Head of the incline Obstacles: There is only a one low stile, high up on Moelwyn Mawr and about half way round the route. Contemplating the stile on Moelwyn Mawr The ascent is a long steady slo...

Short and initially steep walk (of only 2 miles) up through woodland to reach the restored Cwm Cypwrth copper mine. Inspecting the old copper-mining equipment The riverside pool is a great place for paddling and picnicing (so maybe arrive early with a picnic ?!!!) Riverside parking place, excellent for a picnic and a paddle Parking place (and starting point for walk) is here: https://goo.gl/maps/i9hsg8FSQGJ2 The first 200 yards are across a sheep pasture - (so dogs on leads!). There are two substantial post-and rail stiles, (which may need a bit of dog-lifting assistance for the less agile!), but no other sgnificant obstacles. One of the two stiles encountered en route The short ascent through the woodland is by a reasonably steep stony path, though there are several points for a rest on the way up. At one point the route currently diverts around a fallen tree. There is a good viewpoint for a proper rest after the second stile, so time to take a break and a...

A moderate 4.5 mile walk up from Llaneltyd village to the Llyn Tan-y-graig reservoir, then via the old mine tramways along the New Precipice Walk . (Much safer than it sounds! Stunning views of the Mawddach Estuary.)  Return to Llaneltyd via the lower woodland paths. Mawddach Estuary panorama The "Precipice" is a flat track cut into the valley side, on the slopes of Foel Ispri, and makes use of an old tramway which was built to serve the workings of the long-abandoned Voel goldmine. There are stunning views of the Mawddach estuary as far as the Barmouth viaduct, and across to Dolgellau and the Arans in the other direction. Directions From Dolgellau and the south : A470 just north of Dolgellau; turn right onto minor road signposted Cymer Abbey. Follow Cymer Abbey signs but stop short and park near No Through Road down to the  old Llaneltyd Bridge From Trawsfynydd and the north : A470 100 yards BEFORE roundabout with A496 north of Dolgellau...

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. 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. 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! 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 (whic...