Wales Snowdonia (Eryri) Mountain Loop

Betws-y-Coed – Llyn Ogwen – Llanberis – Beddgelert – Harlech – Bala – Betws-y-Coed

Road Trip Itinerary Overview

Circle the majestic heart of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. Starting in the alpine woodland retreat of Betws-y-Coed, you drive through the wild glacial trench of the Ogwen Valley (A5) beneath the crags of Tryfan. Ascend through the legendary Llanberis Pass between the soaring rock walls of the Snowdon massif, visit the folklore village of Beddgelert, cruise south to the clifftop ramparts of Harlech Castle gazing across Cardigan Bay, cross through Bala and its expansive mountain lake (Llyn Tegid), and complete the loop through the Conwy Valley.

The definitive Snowdonia mountain and coast loop, winding through glacial valleys, coastal UNESCO castles, and dramatic mountain lakes.

Key Waypoints & Scenic Stops Along the Route

1. Betws-y-Coed & Swallow Falls
2. Llyn Ogwen & Tryfan (A5)
3. Llanberis Pass & Slate Museum
4. Beddgelert & Gelert's Grave
5. Harlech Castle & Beach
6. Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid)

Recommended Places to Stay & Overnight Stops

• 🏨 The Royal Oak Hotel, Betws-y-Coed (Accommodation):
• 🏨 Portmeirion Village Hotel (Accommodation):

Roadside Dining, Historic Pubs & Places to Eat

• 🍴 Olif, Betws-y-Coed (Small Plates of Welsh Cheeses, Lamb & Seafood):
• 🍴 The Saracens Head, Beddgelert (Slow-Cooked Welsh Lamb Shank & Local Cask Ales):
• 🍴 Castle Cottage Restaurant, Harlech (Cardigan Bay Sea Bass & Salt Marsh Mutton):

EV Charging Stations & Rapid Hubs

• ⚡ GeniePoint Betws-y-Coed Station:
• ⚡ SWARCO Llanberis Community Hub:
• ⚡ Pod Point Bala High Street:

Fuel, Petrol Stations & Rest Services

• ⛽ Betws-y-Coed Service Station:
• ⛽ Porthmadog Travel Plaza (A487):

Essential Driving Tips & Seasonal Advice

• The Llanberis Pass (A4086) between Capel Curig and Llanberis is narrow with rock climbers frequently walking beside the road; drive at a leisurely pace.
• If you plan to hike up Snowdon from Pen-y-Pass, the car park must be pre-booked online months in advance; alternatively, use the Sherpa'r Wyddfa bus service from Llanberis.
• Harlech Castle's visitor center has an elevated footbridge that provides spectacular photography angles of the battlements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Wales Snowdonia (Eryri) Mountain Loop road trip and what are the main stops?

Wales Snowdonia (Eryri) Mountain Loop covers 110 miles (177 km) over 2-3 Days, rated Moderate. It starts at Betws-y-Coed and finishes at Betws-y-Coed (Loop), passing through Betws-y-Coed & Swallow Falls, Llyn Ogwen & Tryfan (A5), Llanberis Pass & Slate Museum, Beddgelert & Gelert's Grave, Harlech Castle & Beach, Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid).

Where are the EV charging stations on Wales Snowdonia (Eryri) Mountain Loop?

GeniePoint Betws-y-Coed Station: Fast EV charging available. SWARCO Llanberis Community Hub: Fast EV charging available. Pod Point Bala High Street: Fast EV charging available.

Where are the best places to stay along Wales Snowdonia (Eryri) Mountain Loop?

The Royal Oak Hotel, Betws-y-Coed (Stay): Portmeirion Village Hotel (Stay):