Aberglaslyn, Beddgelert

Details:

This location is a steep sided gorge running approximately due south from the village of Beddgelert. The river Glaslyn cascades through the gorge and is sheltered by mature deciduous forestry.

Even in high summer there is usually a good flow of water from the southern flanks of Snowdon and the Moelwynion, through Llyn Dinas. Also from Rhyd Ddu where the confluence is in the centre of Beddgelert. So this area makes for a great family day out if you’re also looking for interesting landscape photography compositions along the way.

A path runs along the left hand bank following the Welsh Highland Railway line, and in places is low down alongside some of the most photogenic falls and rapids. Parking is available at Beddgelert and at the southern end on the pass at Nantmor, with some limited layby spaces along the road in between on the right hand side of the river.

It is, of course, very popular and busy during the holiday season. But it comes into its own in late Autumn when the area is much quieter. The best time of day to visit is between 10:00 and 14:00 as the sun only reaches the valley floor around noon due to the steep sides of the narrow pass and the height of the ridges on either side.