This is an opportunity to view the surrounding spectacular, rugged mountains of Cwm Idwal, the Devil's Kitchen (Twll Du) & more. With some geology snippets, as well.
Walk outline: starting from Ogwen Cottage we will walk around Llyn Idwal (C 220m ascent) returning to Ogwen Cottage then follow the Slate Trail along Nant Ffrancon to Bethesda (mainly downhill).
The walk starts on upland paths with uneven surfaces & steps then continues on a lane (Slate Trail), other paths & partly through Bethesda. The most hazardous part is crossing the A5 in Bethesda, so please use the crossing.
Distance: 13½km (8½ miles) Ascent: 290m (950ft), Expected to finish by 4.30pm
Toilets & refreshments available at Ogwen Cottage & Bethesda Leisure Centre (vending machines).
Free parking at Bethesda Leisure Centre (Byw’n Iach Plas Ffrancon), arrive by 9:45am, please park cars at the far end of the car park. Please purchase snacks and drinks from the vending machines where toilets are available. We will then walk to the T10 bus stop on the A5 in Bethesda (Victoria Square) bus departs at 1027.
Directions to the car park at Bethesda Leisure Centre (Byw’n Iach Plas Ffrancon): approach Bethesda on the A5 from the Bangor direction. On entering the town, you pass a car repair garage on the left and then a row of terraced houses. At the end of the terraced houses, you will see a brown sign indicating the left turn to the Leisure Centre. Take this turn (which is very sharp) and follow the road uphill for about a quarter of a mile, around a slight bend to the right. The Leisure Centre is then on the right. Note the arrows in the car park showing a one-way circulation system, follow these and park at the far end of the car park.
Location: Grid Ref: SH 62084 67332, Address: Ffordd Newydd Coetmor, Bethesda, Gwynedd, Post Code: LL57 3DT; what3words: punk.overnight.airbase
Don’t forget your bus pass – if applicable!
We hope to finish by 4:30pm at the Bethesda Leisure Centre where toilets & vending machines will still be available.
As an option, its possible to finish the walk at Owen Cottage & return to Bethesda by bus – if you wish to do so, please advise the Leader or Back-marker.
In the event of bad weather, the walk will be postponed, so please check on Facebook at Ynys Mon Ramblers Group, on the evening before the walk & morning of the walk. Advisable to have waterproofs, boots/walking shoes & the usual walking kit, food & drink – if in doubt ask.
To register for this walk please let me know (Ray) using Messenger.
Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Bangor.
