Dolgellau Guidebook
Sightseeing
Starting from Dolgellau The Mawddach Trail footpath walk and cycle route winds for 9.5 miles (15km) along the disused railway track on the southern edge of the spectacular Mawddach estuary. Whilst the trail can be joined at several points it starts at the picturesque market town of Dolgellau and finishes by crossing the iconic railway bridge over the mouth of the estuary into Barmouth.
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The Mawddach Trail
Starting from Dolgellau The Mawddach Trail footpath walk and cycle route winds for 9.5 miles (15km) along the disused railway track on the southern edge of the spectacular Mawddach estuary. Whilst the trail can be joined at several points it starts at the picturesque market town of Dolgellau and finishes by crossing the iconic railway bridge over the mouth of the estuary into Barmouth.
This circular walk does not follow a public footpath but a private walk over a particularly beautiful part of the Nannau estate, which dates back to the twelfth century.
The public have been invited to use this walk by the estate since 1890 on the understanding that they observe the country code, follow the route indicated and use the proper access. Please keep dogs on a lead.
The Precipice Walk is one of the famous attractions of Dolgellau. It passes through an interesting variety of habitats which include deciduous woodland, a conifer plantation, meadows, lakeside and sheep-walk. But the main attraction of the walk is the incomparable views down the Mawddach Estuary and of the principal mountain ranges of Snowdonia.
To the north are Snowdon and the Moelwynion, to the west is the Rhinog, immediately south is the long scarp of Cader Idris, while to the east lies the Aran and Arenig.
It is a contour walk in that the path roughly follows the level of the 800ft contour line, so there is not much climbing or descending involved and it is an ideal walk for the whole family. The precipice, along part of the western side, is by no means as terrifying as it sounds but walkers who suffer from vertigo may need some assistance along this section.
How to get there?
From the centre of Dolgellau, go over the big bridge and turn right towards Bala. After about 500m turn left across the road to the Library up a hill towards Llanfachreth. After about 2 miles, at the top of the hill, you will arrive at Saith Groesffordd car park on your left at the junction. There are toilets here and ample parking.
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Precipice Walk
This circular walk does not follow a public footpath but a private walk over a particularly beautiful part of the Nannau estate, which dates back to the twelfth century.
The public have been invited to use this walk by the estate since 1890 on the understanding that they observe the country code, follow the route indicated and use the proper access. Please keep dogs on a lead.
The Precipice Walk is one of the famous attractions of Dolgellau. It passes through an interesting variety of habitats which include deciduous woodland, a conifer plantation, meadows, lakeside and sheep-walk. But the main attraction of the walk is the incomparable views down the Mawddach Estuary and of the principal mountain ranges of Snowdonia.
To the north are Snowdon and the Moelwynion, to the west is the Rhinog, immediately south is the long scarp of Cader Idris, while to the east lies the Aran and Arenig.
It is a contour walk in that the path roughly follows the level of the 800ft contour line, so there is not much climbing or descending involved and it is an ideal walk for the whole family. The precipice, along part of the western side, is by no means as terrifying as it sounds but walkers who suffer from vertigo may need some assistance along this section.
How to get there?
From the centre of Dolgellau, go over the big bridge and turn right towards Bala. After about 500m turn left across the road to the Library up a hill towards Llanfachreth. After about 2 miles, at the top of the hill, you will arrive at Saith Groesffordd car park on your left at the junction. There are toilets here and ample parking.
This circular path is one of the most popular paths in the Dolgellau area and it follows the river Clywedog through its striking gorge.
Originally, the path was built by Thomas Payne and his son; he was also the designer of the Cob across the river Glaslyn in Porthmadog. The work was commissioned by Baron Richards of the mansion Plas Caerynwch, which is further up the river, in order to extend the mansion's gardens.
More recently, the Snowdonia National Park Authority has restored the old path on the eastern side of the gorge, keeping to the route of the former path where possible. As the whole gorge has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) care had to be taken during the restoration work to ensure that the site was not impaired.
At one time the banks of the river Clywedog were bursting with industrial activity. There was a fulling mill, smithy, woollen mill and an iron furnace - some of which are still here today. The gorge also has a wealth of wildlife and special plants - there are otters, dormice and lesser horseshoe bats not to mention an important collection of lichen, ferns, mushrooms and liverwort. How many of these will you find?
How to get there?
From Dolgellau, follow the A470 to the south. After two miles, turn left for the B4416 towards Brithdir. Cross the narrow bridge, Pont ar Ddibyn, in 50 metres. After a further 100m there is a lay-by on the left with an oak signpost marking the path.
Torrent Walk station
This circular path is one of the most popular paths in the Dolgellau area and it follows the river Clywedog through its striking gorge.
Originally, the path was built by Thomas Payne and his son; he was also the designer of the Cob across the river Glaslyn in Porthmadog. The work was commissioned by Baron Richards of the mansion Plas Caerynwch, which is further up the river, in order to extend the mansion's gardens.
More recently, the Snowdonia National Park Authority has restored the old path on the eastern side of the gorge, keeping to the route of the former path where possible. As the whole gorge has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) care had to be taken during the restoration work to ensure that the site was not impaired.
At one time the banks of the river Clywedog were bursting with industrial activity. There was a fulling mill, smithy, woollen mill and an iron furnace - some of which are still here today. The gorge also has a wealth of wildlife and special plants - there are otters, dormice and lesser horseshoe bats not to mention an important collection of lichen, ferns, mushrooms and liverwort. How many of these will you find?
How to get there?
From Dolgellau, follow the A470 to the south. After two miles, turn left for the B4416 towards Brithdir. Cross the narrow bridge, Pont ar Ddibyn, in 50 metres. After a further 100m there is a lay-by on the left with an oak signpost marking the path.
Coed y Brenin was Britain's first purpose-built mountain biking centre and it is still one of the sport’s top destinations.
Eight purpose-built mountain bike trails start from the visitor centre and range from easy trails for families and beginners to technical routes for expert riders. Other facilities for mountain bikers include a bike shop and a skills area where you can develop your riding techniques.
The visitor centre is the starting point for walking and running trails through Coed y Brenin Forest Park as well as orienteering courses and geocaching trails.
Two of the walking trails are suitable for visitors using an off-road mobility scooter.
There are also children’s play areas, a café and plenty of picnic tables.
Coed y Brenin Visitor Centre holds the Visit Wales Gold Award for attractions that make an exceptional effort to create an enjoyable and memorable experience for visitors.
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Coed y Brenin Forest Park
Coed y Brenin was Britain's first purpose-built mountain biking centre and it is still one of the sport’s top destinations.
Eight purpose-built mountain bike trails start from the visitor centre and range from easy trails for families and beginners to technical routes for expert riders. Other facilities for mountain bikers include a bike shop and a skills area where you can develop your riding techniques.
The visitor centre is the starting point for walking and running trails through Coed y Brenin Forest Park as well as orienteering courses and geocaching trails.
Two of the walking trails are suitable for visitors using an off-road mobility scooter.
There are also children’s play areas, a café and plenty of picnic tables.
Coed y Brenin Visitor Centre holds the Visit Wales Gold Award for attractions that make an exceptional effort to create an enjoyable and memorable experience for visitors.
Food scene
The Torrent Walk serve a lovely Sunday lunch, it's very popular, so book ahead to avoid disappointment.
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Torrent Walk Hotel
Smithfield StreetThe Torrent Walk serve a lovely Sunday lunch, it's very popular, so book ahead to avoid disappointment.
Y Sospan dates back to the 1606, tucked away from the main square in the old town of Dolgellau. Y Sospan is full of character from it original slate floor to the old jail door that leads to a large restaurant with it big fire place.
Y Sospan is the perfect place to go for morning coffee & breakfast, lunch or take away meals if you have no time to stop. There is always a large selection of homemade cakes and tea or coffee how ever you like it as a treat after walking the beautiful surrounding mountings. And in the evening Y Sospan becomes a bistro where you are able to relax with a bottle of wine and great food.
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Y Sospan
Queen's SquareY Sospan dates back to the 1606, tucked away from the main square in the old town of Dolgellau. Y Sospan is full of character from it original slate floor to the old jail door that leads to a large restaurant with it big fire place.
Y Sospan is the perfect place to go for morning coffee & breakfast, lunch or take away meals if you have no time to stop. There is always a large selection of homemade cakes and tea or coffee how ever you like it as a treat after walking the beautiful surrounding mountings. And in the evening Y Sospan becomes a bistro where you are able to relax with a bottle of wine and great food.
The restaurant at Y Meirionnydd Townhouse is in the lower, medieval cellar that up until 1815 housed the County Jail. It has since been transformed into an intimate and comfortable restaurant.
Y Meirionnydd
Smithfield SquareThe restaurant at Y Meirionnydd Townhouse is in the lower, medieval cellar that up until 1815 housed the County Jail. It has since been transformed into an intimate and comfortable restaurant.
Tafarn Y Gader
Smithfield StreetBistro Tapas Bar
On-site restaurant, bar, large dining room and lounges available, offering Home-made local produce, to both residents and non-residents.
Open seven days a week and serve food from 12pm onwards 365 days a year! They can cater for special dietary requirements but suggest you notify a member of staff on ordering or reserving your table if you have specific needs.
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Royal Ship Hotel
Queen's SquareOn-site restaurant, bar, large dining room and lounges available, offering Home-made local produce, to both residents and non-residents.
Open seven days a week and serve food from 12pm onwards 365 days a year! They can cater for special dietary requirements but suggest you notify a member of staff on ordering or reserving your table if you have specific needs.
Mawddach Restaurant
A Neapolitan Pizza restaurant on a farm in Snowdonia!
Cafes/Takeaways
Popty'r Dref
Smithfield StreetLocal bakery.
DD'S BAKERY AND SANDWICH BAR LTD
5 Crosby BuildingsBakery and sandwich bar.
Dolgellau Kebab Shop
2 Arran RoadKebab, burger & pizza house
Chinese Cottage
Smithfield StreetChinese take away
Lemon Grass
Finsbury SquareIndian/Bangladeshi Restaurant/Takeaway
Dolgellau coffee shops & tea rooms offering freshly ground coffee.
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Roberts Bros
Bridge StreetDolgellau coffee shops & tea rooms offering freshly ground coffee.
Yr Hen Efail
4 Green LaneCafe & tea rooms
Dylanwad is an independent wine merchant and wine shop in Dolgellau, stocking a wide range of wines from around the world.
If you like wine, visiting here is a must!
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Gwin Dylanwad Wine
Dylanwad is an independent wine merchant and wine shop in Dolgellau, stocking a wide range of wines from around the world.
If you like wine, visiting here is a must!
Bars
Unicorn Inn
Smithfield SquarePub
Cross Keys Inn
Gwern Y CiliauCross keys 2 bars, pool table, 3 dart boards and good drinks
City/town information
Technically Barmouth isn’t in Snowdonia (many North Wales seaside town aren’t), but it’s one of the prettiest towns in the area and you can see the slopes of Cader Idris from it’s huge sandy beach. Barmouth is nestled beside the beautiful Mawddach Estuary with excellent hill-walking all around.
The foothills of the Rhinogs and Cader Idris mountain range and all within walking distance and there is a walking festival every September. If you want to take things a little more leisurely, then you can stroll over the half a mile long train/footbridge and onto the Mawddach Trail, where you can walk the old railway line inland to Dolgellau.
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Barmouth
Technically Barmouth isn’t in Snowdonia (many North Wales seaside town aren’t), but it’s one of the prettiest towns in the area and you can see the slopes of Cader Idris from it’s huge sandy beach. Barmouth is nestled beside the beautiful Mawddach Estuary with excellent hill-walking all around.
The foothills of the Rhinogs and Cader Idris mountain range and all within walking distance and there is a walking festival every September. If you want to take things a little more leisurely, then you can stroll over the half a mile long train/footbridge and onto the Mawddach Trail, where you can walk the old railway line inland to Dolgellau.
Portmeirion is one of Wales’ premier visitor attractions, welcoming 250,000 visitors every year. With free parking, complimentary guided tours and audio visual show, six cafes and restaurants, half a dozen shops, gardens and beaches it is the perfect day out for all the family. Surrounding the village are 70 acres of exotic woodlands with easy to follow woodland trails and coastal walks. It was designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis over a period of fifty years from 1925 to 1975. It was built in the style of an Italian village. It served as a location for numerous films and television shows, most famously being “The Village” in the 1960s television show The Prisoner starring Patrick McGoohan. It was also the location for the video of the Supergrass song Alright in 1995.
It is open every day of the year from 9.30am to 7.30pm. It is located 4 miles south of Porthmadog near the village of Penrhyndeudraeth on the Dwyryd Estuary.
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Portmeirion
Portmeirion is one of Wales’ premier visitor attractions, welcoming 250,000 visitors every year. With free parking, complimentary guided tours and audio visual show, six cafes and restaurants, half a dozen shops, gardens and beaches it is the perfect day out for all the family. Surrounding the village are 70 acres of exotic woodlands with easy to follow woodland trails and coastal walks. It was designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis over a period of fifty years from 1925 to 1975. It was built in the style of an Italian village. It served as a location for numerous films and television shows, most famously being “The Village” in the 1960s television show The Prisoner starring Patrick McGoohan. It was also the location for the video of the Supergrass song Alright in 1995.
It is open every day of the year from 9.30am to 7.30pm. It is located 4 miles south of Porthmadog near the village of Penrhyndeudraeth on the Dwyryd Estuary.
Dolgellau is one of the most beautiful places in Snowdonia. It may not be one of the top towns people think of when they book their ‘staycation’ in North Wales, some just think all Snowdonia has to offer is Snowdon. Sometimes Southern Snowdonia gets a bit left out, but it’s just as stunning as the North. It’s not quite the ‘Riviera’ of Snowdonia, but obviously we are nearer the Equator!
It’s a fabulous base to explore Snowdonia. If you want mountain biking you have everything including the flat Mawddach Trail which follows the old railway bed to the lovely seaside town of Barmouth. If hurtling down hills on two wheels is your thing, then Dolgellau is the nearest town to Coed y Brenin Mountain Bike Centre and further north you have the rugged slate tracks of Antur Stiniog in Blaenau Ffestiniog.
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Dolgellau
Dolgellau is one of the most beautiful places in Snowdonia. It may not be one of the top towns people think of when they book their ‘staycation’ in North Wales, some just think all Snowdonia has to offer is Snowdon. Sometimes Southern Snowdonia gets a bit left out, but it’s just as stunning as the North. It’s not quite the ‘Riviera’ of Snowdonia, but obviously we are nearer the Equator!
It’s a fabulous base to explore Snowdonia. If you want mountain biking you have everything including the flat Mawddach Trail which follows the old railway bed to the lovely seaside town of Barmouth. If hurtling down hills on two wheels is your thing, then Dolgellau is the nearest town to Coed y Brenin Mountain Bike Centre and further north you have the rugged slate tracks of Antur Stiniog in Blaenau Ffestiniog.
Bala & Penllyn is situated in the Snowdonia National Park, Wales, in an area known as the Welsh Lake District. The area has dramatic scenery with mountains almost touching 3,000 ft high, deep valleys, fast flowing streams, rivers, waterfalls, forests and many lakes.
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Bala
Bala & Penllyn is situated in the Snowdonia National Park, Wales, in an area known as the Welsh Lake District. The area has dramatic scenery with mountains almost touching 3,000 ft high, deep valleys, fast flowing streams, rivers, waterfalls, forests and many lakes.
There are many compelling reasons to visit. It’s surely one of Britain’s prettiest little seaside resorts. Located where the River Dyfi meets the waters of Cardigan Bay, it’s also a popular sailing and watersports venue (The Sunday Times listed it as one of the best beaches in Britain ‘for a spot of windsurfing or kitesurfing’). Pastel-coloured terraces front the large sandy beach and quaint old harbour. Golf is also popular here where Aberdyfi’s famous links course is one of the UK’s finest. Local museum is dedicated to the port’s shipbuilding past.
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Aberdyfi
There are many compelling reasons to visit. It’s surely one of Britain’s prettiest little seaside resorts. Located where the River Dyfi meets the waters of Cardigan Bay, it’s also a popular sailing and watersports venue (The Sunday Times listed it as one of the best beaches in Britain ‘for a spot of windsurfing or kitesurfing’). Pastel-coloured terraces front the large sandy beach and quaint old harbour. Golf is also popular here where Aberdyfi’s famous links course is one of the UK’s finest. Local museum is dedicated to the port’s shipbuilding past.
Activities
Unleash your inner-thrill seeker in our enormous underground net adventure! Jump, bounce and slide your way through this disused mine on the best playground ever!
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Zip World Bounce Poshtë
Unleash your inner-thrill seeker in our enormous underground net adventure! Jump, bounce and slide your way through this disused mine on the best playground ever!
Prepare for a truly unique and exhilarating experience: the fastest zip line in the world since 2013! Soar over Penrhyn Quarry, where you can travel at speeds of up to and over 100 mph while taking in unbeatable views of Snowdonia.
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Zip World Penrhyn Quarry
Prepare for a truly unique and exhilarating experience: the fastest zip line in the world since 2013! Soar over Penrhyn Quarry, where you can travel at speeds of up to and over 100 mph while taking in unbeatable views of Snowdonia.
The Fairbourne Railway has been running from Fairbourne village to the mouth of the Mawddach Estuary, connecting with the ferry to Barmouth for over 100 years. It started as a two foot gauge horse-drawn tramway which was then converted to a 15 inch gauge railway in 1916. The line in 1986 was completely re built to a 12.25 inch gauge.
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Treni i Fairbourne
Beach RoadThe Fairbourne Railway has been running from Fairbourne village to the mouth of the Mawddach Estuary, connecting with the ferry to Barmouth for over 100 years. It started as a two foot gauge horse-drawn tramway which was then converted to a 15 inch gauge railway in 1916. The line in 1986 was completely re built to a 12.25 inch gauge.
Being immersed in nature while learning how to care for it is the perfect pairing for a memorable day out.
Explore a world of green living at the UK’s leading eco centre on one of our many new visitor experiences or short residential courses.
CAT has nearly 50 years’ experience providing education on everything from renewable energy and environmentally friendly building, to ecology, woodland management, organic gardening and more.
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Centre for Alternative Technology
Being immersed in nature while learning how to care for it is the perfect pairing for a memorable day out.
Explore a world of green living at the UK’s leading eco centre on one of our many new visitor experiences or short residential courses.
CAT has nearly 50 years’ experience providing education on everything from renewable energy and environmentally friendly building, to ecology, woodland management, organic gardening and more.
King Arthur's Labyrinth is the underground storytelling adventure and a fun day out for the whole family. Find us in Corris.
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Labirinti i Mbretit Artur
King Arthur's Labyrinth is the underground storytelling adventure and a fun day out for the whole family. Find us in Corris.