Aberglaslyn, Bryn Du and Beddgelert walk, Meirionydd

Starting from the village of Beddgelert in the heart of Eryri (Snowdonia), this compact but energetic circuit climbs to a rocky viewpoint before dropping into one of Wales' most celebrated river gorges. From the church of St Mary's, the route heads out past Bryn-y-felin and begins the steady pull up towards Tŵr Bryn Du, where the effort is repaid with sweeping views over the surrounding mountains and valleys.

From the tower, the path descends towards the Aberglaslyn Pass, joining the Afon Glaslyn as it tumbles through a narrow, wooded ravine. Pont Aberglaslyn, the elegant stone bridge spanning the river, marks the turning point before the route follows the Glaslyn back upstream to Beddgelert. Along the way you pass close to Coed Bryn-y-felin and near the site of the old Cwm Bychan Copper Mine mill, with Mynydd Sygyn rising above.

Back in the village, the grave known as Bedd Gelert lies a short stroll from the Saracens Head, and Nantmor Halt on the Welsh Highland Railway is close by for those extending the day.