A 3-Day Autumn Itinerary in Eryri: Nature, History & Adventure

Autumn in Eryri (Snowdonia) offers vibrant landscapes, crisp mountain air, and endless opportunities for adventure. Llechwedd Glamping at Plas Weunydd serves as a cosy base from which you can explore the natural beauty, history, and local charm of Eryri / Snowdonia. We’re sharing a 3 day itinerary of autumnal activities for you to enjoy during your visit to Plas Weunydd.

Day 1: Arrive & Explore

Morning: Arrive at Llechwedd Glamping

Begin your autumn adventure by settling into your Llechwedd Glamping Tent. Take in the views over the quarry, Zip World, and Eryri / Snowdonia beyond.

Mid-Morning: Cwmorthin Quarry Walk

After settling in, take a short 10-minute drive to Cwmorthin Quarry. This hidden gem offers tranquil paths through historic slate quarry ruins, with breathtaking views of Llyn Cwmorthin (Cwmorthin Lake). The trail is ideal for taking in the autumn colors.

  • Distance from Plas Weunydd: 1.5 miles (10-minute drive)

Afternoon: Explore the Ffestiniog Railway

Spend the afternoon riding the historic Ffestiniog Railway. From Blaenau Ffestiniog you can take the Quarryman service all the way to Porthmadog, enjoying stunning views of Snowdonia’s mountains and valleys, especially vibrant in the autumn season. The Ffestiniog Railway and its infrastructure are an integral part of the UNESCO “Slate Landscape of North Wales” World Heritage Site. A unique way to experience the area’s natural beauty!

Evening: Relax at LLechwedd Glamping

Return to your tent for a peaceful evening. Have a BBQ with views over the quarry, or make your own pizzas with our pizza ovens! BBQ packs and Pizza ovens should be reserved well in advance of your stay. We also offer wine, beer & cider packs. Once you book you’ll be sent a link to all of our extras, make sure you have a look and order a special treat.

Morning: Walk Around Llyn Mair and Plas Tan y Bwlch

Start your second day with a visit to Llyn Mair, a serene lake surrounded by forest, just a 15-minute drive from Plas Weunydd. The short, easy walk around the lake is perfect for taking in the crisp autumn air.

  • Distance from Plas Weunydd: 4 miles (15-minute drive)

  • Address: Plas Tan y Bwlch, Maentwrog, LL41 3YU

Afternoon: Explore Beddgelert and Llyn Dinas

Make your way to Beddgelert, a picturesque village known for its charming stone cottages and rich history. Grab.a bite for lunch in a pub and take a gentle walk along the Gelert’s Grave trail, where you can learn the local legend of the faithful hound. Afterward, make your way to Llyn Dinas, a nearby lake just a short drive away, to enjoy the tranquility and autumn scenery.

  • Distance from Porthmadog to Beddgelert: 6 miles (10-minute drive)

  • Distance from Beddgelert to Llyn Dinas: 2 miles (5-minute drive)

  • Website: Beddgelert Village

Evening: Return to Plas Weunydd

Return to the glamping site in the late afternoon for a relaxed evening. Enjoy the peaceful setting as the daylight fades, providing a perfect ending to your day of exploration.

Day 3: Castles and Local Attractions

Morning: Dolwyddelan Castle

On your final day, take a short 7-minute drive to Dolwyddelan Castle, a fascinating fortress. According to the Dolwydellan website: “The original wooden castle , believed to be the birth place of Llywelyn The Great (C1172-1240) stood on a rocky knoll on the valley floor below the present-day castle.  The wooded knoll can be clearly seen opposite the castle. Llywelyn, the ruler of North Wales for 40 years and practically all of the rest of Wales for a substantial part of that time, built Dolwyddelan Castle in about 1210. The square  tower was renovated to its present condition in Victorian times.”

  • Distance from Plas Weunydd: 4.6 miles (7-minute drive)

  • Address: Dolwyddelan Castle, Dolwyddelan LL25 0JD

  • Website: Dolwyddelan

Lunch: Tŷ Gwyn

After exploring the castle, enjoy a traditional Welsh lunch at the Tŷ Gwyn in Betws-y-Coed. This charming hotel is known for its welcoming atmosphere and hearty meals, making it the perfect spot to refuel.

  • Distance from Dolwyddelan Castle: 6 miles (10-minute drive)

  • Address: Tŷ Gwyn, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0SG

  • Website: Tŷ Gwyn

Afternoon: Visit Portmeirion Village

End your trip with a visit to the iconic Portmeirion Village, a unique Italianate village on the coast. Explore the colourful buildings, scenic gardens, and quirky architecture, all of which are particularly stunning in the soft autumn light. Portmeirion is a popular attraction and provides a peaceful yet whimsical end to your Eryri / Snowdonia experience.

  • Distance from Plas Weunydd: 11 miles (20-minute drive)

  • Address: Portmeirion Village, Minffordd, Penrhyndeudraeth, LL48 6ER

  • Website: Portmeirion

From scenic walks around lakes to exploring ancient castles and the unique charm of Portmeirion, you’ll leave Eryri / Snowdonia with memories of its striking landscapes and rich heritage—all easily accessible from your base at Llechwedd Glamping at Plas Weunydd.

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WHAT’S ON - Autumn 2024