Hiking in Wales is a hidden gem that offers both reward and adventure. Even the most seasoned hikers wouldn’t turn down a weekend in one of Wales’ many stunning national parks. Recently, I visited Wales twice to hike the peaks of Snowdon and Pen y Fan on long weekends. These trips provided a mix of serene nature and thrilling stormy adventure.
Table Of Content
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know for a long weekend of hiking in Welsh nature. So, strap on your mountain boots and let’s dive into what you need to know before hiking in Wales.
What is Hiking in Wales like?
While Wales offers many options, including coastal walks and forest trails, I’ll focus on the peaks that Wales offers. Using an app like AllTrails, you can easily find a place to park your car and set off on a rewarding 3-6 hour journey up a mountain.
One of the best things about hiking in Wales is it’s relatively cost-free. Apart from the cost of accommodation and equipment, you can experience the stunning landscapes of Wales on a budget.
Whether you’re hiking with friends or solo, you’ll have a different but equally rewarding experience. Hiking in Wales offers a unique blend of natural beauty, challenging trails, and the satisfaction of reaching a peak.
Where to Hike in Wales?
I’ve had the pleasure of hiking in Wales on two separate occasions, but there’s so much more to explore beyond my experiences. Snowdon, the tallest peak in Wales, and Pen y Fan, the tallest in South Wales, are both iconic destinations for hikers.
Alongside Cader Idris, these peaks form the Welsh 3 Peaks Challenge—a test of endurance that attracts eager hikers looking to push their limits.
From my personal experience, as long as you have a reasonable level of fitness and take care of your body, you can handle the challenges that Snowdon and Pen y Fan present. Equipping yourself with the right gear is crucial, but we’ll cover that later.
For detailed information on hiking trips in Wales, I recommend checking out resources like AllTrails, The National Trust and Visit Wales.
When to Hike in Wales?
One of the great things about hiking is that you can choose the time of year that suits your interests and experience level.
For beginners, I recommend hiking in Wales between April and November. The weather is generally milder during these months, making the experience more enjoyable. However, it’s important to use common sense—extreme weather can make hikes challenging and potentially unsafe. For instance, it’s not advisable to hike up Snowdon during stormy weather, although it can be an exhilarating experience for more seasoned hikers.
I visited Snowdon in late summer 2024 and encountered high winds and stormy conditions, yet I managed fine as an inexperienced hiker. It’s all about being prepared and using your judgement. If you’re curious to see my experience, you can watch the video I posted on my YouTube channel here:
Getting There
Reaching the national parks in Wales is generally easiest by car. You’ll likely be staying in nearby accommodation, whether it’s a campsite or an Airbnb, making car travel the most convenient option for transporting all your gear.
Getting to the start of the trails, however, can be a different story. Snowdonia, for instance, has well-known bus routes that help hikers reach the trailheads. Although I didn’t use public transport for Pen y Fan, I know there are bus routes available for hikers in that area, though I’m unsure of their extent.
Alternatively, you can drive directly to the trail starts and park there. Popular trailheads may have competitive and potentially expensive parking, but if you choose less frequented trails, you might find free or cheaper parking options.
I recommend researching your travel options before your trip to avoid scrambling for solutions when you arrive.
Accommodation
When hiking in Wales, you generally have two main options for accommodation: camping or staying in more conventional lodgings.
Camping:
Camping is an excellent option for those who enjoy the outdoors. For example, when my friends and I hiked Snowdon, we spent the first day travelling to our campsite, the second day trekking the peak, and the third day packing up and heading home. We stayed at the Llyn Gwynant Campsite, which was in a fantastic location, reasonably priced, and had bus routes to the trailhead.
If camping isn’t your thing, consider staying in hostels, hotels, or B&Bs. Websites like Booking.com and Airbnb offer a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. These lodgings provide a warmer stay and convenient access to trails across Wales.
Ultimately, your choice depends on how adventurous you want to be and what suits your needs. While booking in advance can be helpful, there’s no need to stress too much. There are plenty of campsites and accommodations available, even for last-minute bookings.
Hiking Routes
Wales offers a plethora of hiking routes, depending on the peaks you want to climb. Some mountains are well-suited to common trails, while others offer more unique paths.
Snowdon:
Snowdon, the tallest peak in Wales, has four famous routes:
- The Llanberis Path
- The Miners Track
- The PYG Track
- Crib Goch
Each of these trails caters to different skill levels, so it’s essential to research and choose the one that matches your experience. As a beginner, I took the Miners Track and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Pen Y Fan:
Unlike Snowdon, Pen y Fan doesn’t have as many renowned trails. When I visited Brecon to hike Pen y Fan, my group found a popular trail on AllTrails and decided to go for it. If you’re interested in the specific route I took, you can find it here.
I also made a short three-minute video of my visit to Pen y Fan. If you’d like a taste of what it’s like, you can watch it below:
Gear and Preparation
Regardless of the time of year, investing in a good coat that can handle high winds and rain while keeping you warm is essential. Pair this with sturdy hiking boots or walking shoes (make sure they’re broken in before your hike), and you’ll be well-prepared for a trek up a peak.
In addition to a good coat and shoes, don’t forget warm hats and gloves. Ensure your trousers and socks are suitable for walking and won’t cause discomfort during your hike.
My go-to shop for all things hiking-related is Go Outdoors. This UK-based company offers excellent clothing and equipment at reasonable prices. If you need a reliable backpack or hiking poles, Go Outdoors has you covered.
Keep an eye on the weather forecast before your walk and adjust your equipment accordingly. For instance, if heavy rain is predicted, don’t forget your coat. Conversely, if you’re hiking in the peak of summer with no wind and temperatures around 30°C, you won’t need a coat. Use common sense and judge accordingly.
For navigation, I recommend using a GPS app. AllTrails has a built-in GPS feature, and other popular apps like Google Maps can also help you navigate the terrain. If you’re a hardcore hiker, you can also use a map and compass.
How Long to Spend There
If you’re up for it, I recommend spending a long weekend in Wales. Traveling to Wales on the first day, hiking the next, and heading home on the third day makes for a relaxing and fulfilling weekend.
This itinerary structure allows you to avoid rushing and gives you plenty of time to enjoy the hike and take in the stunning nature and views that Wales has to offer.
For the more experienced hikers, a weekend isn’t your only option. Wales offers challenging options like the Three Peaks Challenge and The Across Wales Walk , which will test your endurance and fitness.
Conclusion
In summary, a trip to Wales is a journey worth taking. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, the breathtaking landscapes, diverse trails, and rich history make Wales an exceptional destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Both of my trips to Snowdon and Pen y Fan were filled with awe-inspiring views and a sense of accomplishment that I will cherish forever.
Hiking in Wales offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquillity. From the highest peaks to the serene valleys, every hike presents an opportunity to connect with nature and challenge yourself. The practical tips and resources provided in this guide aim to help you plan a memorable hiking experience in Wales.
So, pack your gear, gather your friends or enjoy some solo time, and set off on an adventure that will leave you with lasting memories. The beauty of Wales awaits, and I promise you won’t be disappointed.
Safe travels and happy hiking!
