Cadair Idris & Pistyll Rhaeadr Falls: date tbc

Cadair is often described as the 3rd of the Welsh 3 Peaks, alongside Snowdon and Pen y Fan. But like other mountains of Southern Snowdonia, it sees far fewer people making for its 893m summit. Yet this is undoubtedly the best hike in southern Snowdonia.

Found just outside Dolgellau, Gwynedd, set in a National Nature Reserve, protected for its geology and habitats. Rare alpine flowers still grow on its slopes, a legacy of the last Ice Age. We take The Minffordd Path, which is a scenic beauty! The trail offers a variety of terrain including a gorge, forest, rugged ridges, and a climb to the summit overlooking Llyn Cau (lake). Beautiful landscape all the way, with huge views from the summit, taking in the whole sweep of Cardigan bay on a good day.

This trip really is an beautiful escape from the crowds; a more peaceful visit for the real hiking connoisseur. 

Cadair is surrounded by legend. Its name means Chair of Idris, the giant. Llyn Cau, the lake in the centre of the horseshoe, is said to be bottomless. While spending a whole night on Cadair's summit is told to leave you coming home either mad or with the eloquence of a poet...

Walk Distance: 10 km

Hike Ascent: 850 m

Start Point: Minffordd Car Park, LL37 9AJ (change needed)

On our second day of this trip, we take a 10km circular walk, visiting several waterfalls (so remember your trucks!), before reaching the top of magnificent Pistyll Rhaeadr Falls.

Situated in the beautiful Berwyn Mountains, this is considered one of The Seven Wonders of Wales. Meaning Spring of the Waterfall, Pistyll Rhaeadr at 240ft is an impressive three stage waterfall, one of the tallest in the UK with a total drop of 73m. 

We only regret the opportunities we don't take... 

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