Founded in 1951, Snowdonia National Park covers 2180 sq km (840 sq miles) of wild and unspoilt countryside in the western corner of North Wales. Mountain peaks, river valleys and lakes contrast with the 37km (23 miles) of craggy coastline and provide a natural habitat for many species of wildlife, some of which, such as the Snowdon Lily and Rainbow Beetle, are unique to Snowdonia. Much of the dramatic mountainous landscape is the result of millions of years of erosion, with the hanging valleys, moraines and glacial lakes having been formed over 10,000 years ago, during the Great Ice Age. The highest peak is Mount Snowdon, which at 1085m (3559ft) is also the highest mountain in Wales. The park’s natural attractions have made it a popular place with outdoor enthusiasts, who come to the lakes, mountains and beaches to walk, climb and enjoy watersports. Another way to take in the park’s scenery is to ride the Ffestiniog Narrow Gauge Railway which runs from Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog, stopping off at various beauty spots along the way. There are also many cultural events in the park, focusing on Welsh language and traditions which are very much kept alive in this part of Wales. Visitors to the park should look out for Eisteddfodau, which are Welsh cultural festivals featuring choral music, Celtic dancing and readings of poetry and folk tales, and are held in many towns and villages.
Air: Manchester Airport. Rail: Train: Llandudno Junction Station, Blaenau Ffestiniog Station or Penrhyndeudraeth Station. Road: Bus: Public services.

Snowdonia National Park Authority, National Park Office, Penrhyndeudraeth, Gwynedd LL48 6LF, UK
Tel: (01766) 770 274
Website: www.eryri-npa.co.uk

United Kingdom