Beddgelert
Discover Beddgelert – A Fairy-Tale Village with a Legendary Past
If there’s one village in Snowdonia that feels like it’s been pulled straight from a storybook, it’s Beddgelert. With its stone cottages, arched bridge over a fast-flowing river, and a backdrop of soaring peaks, this charming village is packed with character and beauty.
Tucked away where the rivers Glaslyn and Colwyn meet, Beddgelert is a peaceful base for exploring Snowdonia, but don’t let its sleepy feel fool you, it’s also the starting point for some truly stunning walks, rich local history, and one of Wales’ best-loved legends.
Where Village Charm Meets Mountain Adventure
Beddgelert is all about balance; it’s relaxed, yet surrounded by adventure. It has easy access to some of Snowdonia’s most spectacular landscapes, while still offering the slow pace of a traditional Welsh village. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a riverside pint one minute and be halfway up a mountain the next.
With quaint shops, independent cafés, and welcoming locals, it’s ideal for couples looking for a romantic escape, families on a walking holiday, or solo explorers wanting a peaceful base with epic trails right on the doorstep.
Walks, Hikes & Trails Around Beddgelert
Beddgelert is a walker’s dream. Whether you’re into riverside rambles, forest trails, or steep summits, there’s a route for you:
Gelert’s Grave & Riverside Walk
- Distance: 1.6 mi / 2.6 km
- Time: 37 m
- Difficulty: Easy
Take a gentle stroll along the riverbank to the legendary resting place of Gelert, the faithful hound from Welsh folklore. The story might be a tearjerker, but the views are lovely, and it’s a great little loop to stretch your legs.
Aberglaslyn Pass Walk
- Distance: 4.5 mi / 7.2 km
- Time: 2 hrs 20 m
- Difficulty: Moderate
One of the most beautiful river walks in North Wales. Follow the Glaslyn River through woodland and rocky gorges, with occasional scrambling and bridges to keep things interesting. Perfect for families and photographers.
Moel Hebog
- Distance: 5.5 mi / 9 km
- Time: 4–5 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
This mountain towers above the village and offers panoramic views over Snowdonia and the sea beyond. It’s a challenging hike with steep climbs and a rocky ridge, but the views from the top are incredible. Start from Beddgelert and return via a circular route for the full experience.
Nantmor, Llyn Dinas, and Beddgelert Circular
Things to Do in Beddgelert
Visit Gelert’s Grave
Wild Swimming at Llyn Dinas
Just a short walk from Beddgelert, Llyn Dinas is a stunning mountain lake perfect for a refreshing dip. Surrounded by rugged hills and ancient woodlands, it’s a peaceful spot to cool off after a hike or just relax by the water’s edge, soaking in the serene landscape.
Explore Sygun Copper Mine
Step back in time and explore the fascinating underground world of Sygun Copper Mine. Take a self-guided tour through the winding tunnels, marvel at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and learn about the lives of the miners who once worked here.
Kayaking on the River Glaslyn
Paddle along the winding River Glaslyn, surrounded by lush valleys and rugged hills. It’s a fantastic way to experience Beddgelert’s natural beauty from the water, whether you’re gliding through calm sections or tackling the gentle rapids.
Where to Stay in Beddgelert
We’ve hand-picked a variety of lovely places to stay in and around Beddgelert, whether you’re after rustic charm, riverside luxury, or peaceful woodland seclusion.
Top picks nearby include:
- Beddgelert Campsite – Set in the forest, with glamping options and walking trails right from your tent or pod.
- Craflwyn Hall – A National Trust property just outside the village, offering beautiful rooms and historic surroundings.
- Tanronnen Inn – A cosy pub with rooms in the heart of the village.
There are also plenty of cottages, guesthouses, and holiday lets in the area, ideal for longer stays or family getaways.
View places to stay in Snowdonia
Places to Eat in Beddgelert
Despite its small size, Beddgelert is big on flavour. You’ll find a lovely mix of cafés, pubs, and eateries that make the most of local produce and mountain hospitality.
- Caffi Colwyn – A great stop for tea, homemade cakes, and hearty lunches.
- Hebog Eatery & Deli – Creative, fresh dishes with outdoor seating by the river.
- Tanronnen Inn – Traditional pub classics, generous portions, and a roaring fire in winter.
- Glaslyn Ice Cream Parlour & Pizzeria – Famous for its locally made ice cream, but also serves up cracking pizzas.
Good to Know
- Parking: There’s a pay-and-display car park near the centre. It fills quickly on sunny weekends, so arrive early.
- Shops: You’ll find a village store, gift shops, outdoor gear, and a post office.
- Dog-friendly? Very. Most pubs, walks and even the train welcome dogs.
- Cash: Handy for smaller places, though most now accept cards.
Why We Love Beddgelert
Beddgelert is a storybook village where history, scenery, and adventure come together. Nestled where two rivers meet, it’s the perfect base for exploring wild landscapes and soaking up local legends. With its cosy pubs, stone cottages, and trails leading to breathtaking views, Beddgelert leaves a lasting impression.
How to Get to Beddgelert
If you’re driving, Beddgelert is reached via scenic mountain roads, either through the Aberglaslyn Pass from Porthmadog, or over the Llanberis Pass from the north. It’s a joy to drive, but take your time on the narrow sections.
The Welsh Highland Railway links Beddgelert to Caernarfon and Porthmadog. There’s no mainline station, but nearby towns like Porthmadog or Bangor (around 40 minutes away) connect you by bus or taxi.
A Bit of Beddgelert History
Beddgelert’s story is steeped in legend. The tale of Gelert, the faithful hound who was mistakenly killed by Prince Llywelyn, has drawn visitors for generations. While the grave may have been created to encourage tourism in Victorian times, the story remains a key part of the village’s identity.
But Beddgelert’s real history goes even further back. The area was once a hub for copper mining, and evidence of this can still be seen in places like Sygun Copper Mine. The village also has strong literary links, it inspired poets and writers such as William Wordsworth and Gerald of Wales.
Its natural setting, combined with this blend of history, myth, and culture, gives Beddgelert its unmistakable charm.
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