Castell y Bere
52.6669° N, 3.9445° W
Castell y Bere: Llywelyn’s Lonely Mountain Castle
Hidden away in the southern edge of Snowdonia National Park, Castell y Bere is one of the most atmospheric and remote castle ruins in Wales. Built in the 1220s by Llywelyn ap Iorwerth (Llywelyn the Great), this was the southernmost stronghold of the Gwynedd princes, perched dramatically along a rocky ridge in the Dysynni Valley.
Surrounded by rugged hills and backed by Cadair Idris, Castell y Bere is as wild and poetic as the landscape itself.
A Symbol of Welsh Strength
Unlike many other castles in Wales, Castell y Bere wasn’t built by invaders but by the native Welsh. It was designed to defend Gwynedd’s border and project power deep into Meirionnydd. Though it eventually fell into English hands, it remained uniquely Welsh in character and layout. Today, its crumbling towers, curtain walls, and natural defences blend seamlessly with the landscape, creating a hauntingly beautiful place to explore.
© Brad Carr
Walks & Hikes Around Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
Snowdon offers a range of paths to the summit, each with its own character and level of difficulty. Here are some of the most popular routes to experience this legendary peak:
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Llanberis Path
- 9 mi
- 4 hrs 30 m
The most popular route, the Llanberis Path offers a gradual climb from the village, ideal for beginners up for a full-day hike.
Pyg Track
- 7 mi
- 4 hrs 30 m
The Pyg Track starts at Pen-y-Pass and offers a shorter, steeper climb with dramatic views, great for a rugged hike.
Miners' Track
- 8 mi
- 5 hrs 30 m
The Miners’ Track starts gently by the lakes before climbing steeply to the summit, which is ideal if you want an easier start.
Crib Goch
- 7 mi
- 6 hrs 30 m
Crib Goch is an exposed, knife-edge ridge for confident scramblers, thrilling, technical, and not for the faint-hearted.
Snowdon Ranger Path
- 8 mi
- 5 hrs 30 m
The Snowdon Ranger Path offers a quieter, steady climb with scenic views, once a favourite of Victorian visitors.
What to Know Before You Go
• Free to visit and managed by Cadw
• No on-site facilities, so bring food and water
• Terrain is uneven and exposed, wear good footwear and be prepared for changing weather
• Best enjoyed in spring or summer when wildflowers fill the surrounding meadows
Why We Love Castell Y Bere
Castell y Bere isn’t just a castle, it’s a moment frozen in time. Its isolation makes it feel more like a ruin discovered than a tourist attraction. With the mountains all around and history underfoot, it’s a place for slow wandering, deep breaths, and imagining the lives once lived in this remote fortress.
How to Get to Castell y Bere
Located near Llanfihangel-y-Pennant in southern Snowdonia, Castell y Bere is best accessed by car. From the A493 near Abergynolwyn, follow the minor road east into the valley. There’s a small free car park near the site with a short walk to the ruins.
A Bit of Castell y Bere History
Castell y Bere was one of the most important fortresses built by a Welsh prince. Constructed by Llywelyn ap Iorwerth (Llywelyn the Great), it served as a military base and administrative centre to control Meirionnydd. The site’s elevated position made it both defensible and symbolic of Llywelyn’s authority over southern Gwynedd.
After Edward I’s conquest of Wales, the English crown took control of the castle in 1283. Plans were made to expand it and create a new English settlement nearby, but a Welsh uprising in 1294 halted those efforts. Castell y Bere was abandoned soon after, leaving its ruins as a rare glimpse into the architecture and ambition of native Welsh rule.
Keep exploring
Castell y Bere is just one of many powerful reminders of Wales’ independent past. Want to uncover more remote castles, ancient ruins, and hidden landmarks across Snowdonia? Explore more below.