We all know it. Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park in Wales is one of the most beautiful places in the whole of the UK. With 9 mountain ranges and 1497 miles of routes, you can see why it’s so popular with folk from all over.
Covering a total of 823 square miles, Eryri is Wales’ largest National park. So when it comes to camping, hiking and scrambling Snowdonia is a place you simply must tick off the bucket list.
Location
Eryri National Park is a mountainous region of north-western Wales. The park lies partly in the county of Gwynedd, and Partly in the county borough of Conwy.
Although whenever Snowdonia is mentioned people often think of the mountains, it actually has a wide variety of landscapes. These include forests, rivers, marshes and even 23 miles of coastline! (Link to Snowdonia website here!)
History
Snowdonia was at one time a seabed. The area was once covered by a shallow sea over 500 million years ago. Since that time, Snowdonia has been transformed by volcanic activity, which formed its distinctive rocks, and more recently by glacial activity. Glaciers dramatically changed the landscape, creating the huge valleys visible in Snowdonia today.
Humans activity in the region stretches back thousands of years. There are many prehistoric sites in the area. Most notable is that of Tre’r Ceiri (Town of Giants), which is a Iron Age settlement that sits on the slopes of Yr Eifl. The remains of the site include a large rampart and around 150 stone huts.
Perhaps, what Snowdonia is most famous for historically though, is its industrial heritage. Slate from from the quarries that operated in Snowdonia was used for roofing all across Great Britain. Bearing witness to this time are the remaining ruins of mines and mills that are scattered across the region.
Notable Features
Snowdon or Yr Wyddfa is the tallest mountain in the British Isles outside of the Scottish highlands, reaching a height of 1085m above sea level. The mountain is said to be the busiest in the UK! With multiple routes taking you to the summit, it can be tackled by less experienced hikers yet still enjoyed by those looking to challenge themselves.
The valley of Ogwen is an amazing area in Eryri National Park. The valley is home to tranquil lakes and is surrounded by the mighty Carneddau and Glyderau mountains. It’s a must visit for hikers.
Llyn Tegid, also known as Bala Lake, is a freshwater glacial lake. At 3.5 miles long and 3/4 mile at is widest point, it is the largest lake in Wales. The lake is popular for swimming, fishing and a variety of water sports.
Sources:
Eryri National Park
https://snowdoniarailway.co.uk/the-history-majesty-of-snowdonia/