Top 5 easy walks around Dolgellau
It's not always all about climbing the highest mountains. An easy walk can be as good and enjoyable. These are also great as leg stretchers after a few hours in the car.
We have put together a top 5 of easy walks around Dolgellau we believe everyone can try.
1.Mawddach Trail
The old disused railway line starts right behind our house and runs all the way to Barmouth. It is a great, flat path that is completely traffic free, accessible only to walkers, runners and cyclists. There is just one road crossing.
The total length of the trail is 9 miles; however with several carparking options along the route, it can be enjoyed in shorter sections. Parking is available in
Dolgellau (long stay car park Marian Cefn Carpark, near the Rugby Club) for the start of the trail.
Penmaenpool near the George III pub and old wooden toll bridge. From here you can walk towards Barmouth and include (part of) the trails at Coed Abergwynant.
Arthog, a small carpark on Min y Don
Morfa Mawddach, carpark near the railway line. This is the carpark closest to the Barmouth Railway Bridge.
Public toilets available at all carparks, apart from Arthog.
2. Around Foel Offrwm
Fancy an easy walk with fantastic views of Cader Idris, Dolgellau and the Mawddach Estuary, this is definitely a route to consider. This 2.5 mile circular route starts opposite the entrance to the carpark for the Precipice Walk, between Dolgellau and Llanfachreth. Personally, we prefer to walk the route anticlock wise so you get the wide views over the Estuary first, before you go around the back of Foel Offrwm and make your way back to the carpark. For the more energetic people, look out for a big stone signposting the route up to the summit of the hill.
Public toilets available in the carpark.
3. Around Cwm Cynwch
Being part of the well known Precipice Walk, Cwm Cynwch is a reservoir with a easy accessible path around it. From the carpark, you follow the signposts for the Precipice Walk up to the reservoir. But rather than going up towards a stonewall, make your way towards the water and follow the path around.
You can add a little extension to see the amazing views of Cader Idris and the Mawddach Estuary. At the top end of the reservoir, keep an eye out for a narrow path going uphill. This path leads to a small wooden gate which you should go through. The path narrows but you should continue until you get to a viewing area and a wooden bench. Retrace your steps and continue on the path around the water’s edge.
Public toilets available in the carpark.
4. Torrent Walk
A short walk (2.5 miles) alongside the Afon Clywedog takes you through a magical wood. After a few days of rain, the sound and sight of the water rushing down is mesmerising.
The path is clear, easy to follow, with steps in places.
No public toilets.
5. Cregennan Lakes
Even the drive to Cregennan Lakes is worth it. The narrow road following the lower contours of the Cader Idris mountain range, shows you the most spectacular scenery.
From the carpark, turn left on the road for a short walk uphill to a viewpoint over to Barmouth, the Mawddach Estuary and the railway bridge. On a clear day, you’ll see the full length of the Llyn Peninsula.
Turn back towards the carpark, but at a small gate turn left and go along the path to a stile - go over the stile and follow the shoreline of the first lake returning back to the carpark.
Public toilets available in the carpark.
