Wales is home to some of the most stunning mountain scenery in the UK. The rounded peaks, striking landscape and well trodden paths in the Brecon Beacons are perfect for scenic hiking routes. Further north, the more rugged and often challenging terrain of Snowdonia National Park provides a perfect playground for more experienced mountaineers looking to explore the Welsh wilderness.
Whether you are looking for challenging scrambles or scenic routes, here are six of our favourite mountains to climb in Wales.
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
Yr Wyddfa, often known as Snowdon, is the highest peak in Wales standing at 1,085 meters. On a clear day the panoramic views of northern Snowdonia from the top are simply stunning. There are multiple routes up the mountain, with the well-trodden Pyg Track or Miners’ Track being the most popular. Experienced mountaineers will love the exhilarating scramble up Crib Goch, but this route is definitely only recommended for those with a head for heights!
For those who would rather let the train take the strain you can catch The Snowdon Mountain Railway from the village of Llanberis all the way to the summit.
Fun fact: According to Welsh folklore a giant named Rhitta Gawr was killed by King Arthur and his knights and buried on the summit.
Cadair Idris
Cadair Idris, located in southern Snowdonia, stands at 893 meters high. Whilst it isn’t quite as high as Yr Wydda, it is much quieter, making it a better choice for those wanting to escape the crowds. The Minffordd Path is a challenging ascent that takes you up rocky terrain and glacial corries. Once you reach the peak you will be rewarded with breathtaking views over Cardigan Bay and the surrounding hills.
Fun fact: Local myths claim that the summit, Penygadair, is where the legendary Welsh poet Idris found inspiration. Spending a night here may turn you mad or into a poet!
The Rhinogydd
The Rhinogydd mountain range, stretching from Trawsfynydd to Barmouth in the Snowdonia National Park, is often described as the last true wilderness in Wales. Due to the remote and rugged terrain, the Rhinogydds are the least visited of Snowdonia’s peaks. The five main peaks include Diffwys (750 meters), Y Llethr (756 meters), Rhinog Fach (712 meters), Rhinog Fawr (720 meters) and Moel Ysgyfarnogod (623 meters). Experienced mountaineers looking for solitude and less-travelled routes will not be disappointed with the impressive ridgelines and dramatic views in this remote and wild area of Snowdonia.
Fun fact: The Rhinogydd mountains contain some of the oldest rocks in Wales dating back over 500 million years!
Tryfan
Sitting in the Ogwen Valley, Snowdonia, Tryfan is one of the UK’s most iconic peaks. Standing at 918 meters high it is known for its dramatic shape and rocky spine. Classed as a grade 1 scramble, you will need to ‘climb’ to reach the Summit. Please note there is no walking route to the top.
Fun facts: at the summit there are two famous rocks called Adam and Eve (or Sion a Sian in Welsh). Brave climbers often jump between them but the drop on either side means this is definitely not for the faint hearted!
Pen y Fan
Pen y Fan is the highest peak in the Brecon Beacons, standing at 886 meters. It is a popular trek and it’s well maintained trails make it a perfect introduction to mountain and hill walking. The climb up Pen y Fan is relatively short but if you are looking for a longer route the circular Horseshoe Ridge walk combining Fan y Big, Cribyn, Pen y Fan and Corn Du takes in some fantastic panoramic views over the Beacon Beacons.
Fun fact: Pen y Fan is favourite training spot for the UK’s Special Forces and is used in the Special Air Service (SAS) selection process.
The Sugar Loaf
Sitting between the ridges of Llanwenarth, Deri and Rholben hills, The Sugar Loaf is a distinctive conical shaped mountain in the Black Mountains, south Wales. Standing at 596 meters it feels like you are climbing a ‘proper’ mountain without being too remote or technical. The well maintained paths criss cross the grassy hillsides and gentle ridges providing fantastic views over the Black Mountains and even as far as the Severn Estuary on a clear day. Keep your eyes peeled for Skylarks, red kites and buzzards!
Fun fact: whilst The Sugar Loaf may look like a volcano it is made of the same red sandstone and mudstone as the rest of the Black Mountains. It gets its name from a traditional ‘sugarloaf’, a moulded cone of sugar which was used before granulated sugar became common.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a high altitude adventure or a family or group of friends looking to explore Wales, we have a range of holiday homes available in both South Wales and North Wales. It’s time to pack your waterproofs (we are in Wales!), lace up your walking boots, and stock up on Welsh cakes before hitting the hills.