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Why do some mountains grab people's attention and others are dismissed? Higher than Bowfell and Great Gable, Aran Fawddwy falls short of the magic 3000 feet by just 31 feet and provides the basis for a quality walk. With outstanding scenery, superb crags and a route that can be followed in either direction it is a perfect candidate for those wishing to avoid the crowds and "bag" a big one. To reach the start, turn off the A470 Mallwyd to Dolgellau road at Dinas Mawddwy. Cwm Cywarch from Dinas Mawddwy is off an unclassified road signed Llanymawddwy, Bala and Llyn Llanwddyn along the Dyfi Valley. The turning for Cwm Cywarch is left at Abercywarch which is approximately 1 mile from the Red Lion at Dinas Mawddwy. Follow the narrow lane up the beautiful valley of Cwm Cywarch to reach an open area of grass where parking is available (grid ref. SH853184).
Continue up the lane following the signed path past Blaencywarch Farm, which nestles beneath the awesome crags of Cwm Cywarch. (Please ensure you follow designated paths in this area as there have been disputes over access in the past and there is no point causing these to start again.) The path begins to climb in a rocky landscape, crossing and recrossing a stream. As height is gained the retrospective view improves and the col beneath Glasgwm is soon reached (grid ref. SH841201). After admiring the excellent view north to the Rhinog mountains, turn right across the open moorland following the ridge fence as it heads roughly northwest to the summit of Aran Fawddwy, which is now in view. For most of the way there is a path on either side of the fence with little to choose between the two options. About half a kilometre short of the summit a fence comes in from the right. Take note as this is your return route after visiting the summit. The summit of Aran Fawddwy is dramatic and rocky with a thousand foot drop to the small lake of Creiglyn Dyfi way below. The view north along the ridge to Aran Benllyn is superb with lake Bala providing a fitting backdrop. Elsewhere the panorama includes the Berwyns, some of lesser mountains in the Arans, the Arenigs plus much of northern Snowdonia and mid-Wales. Turning back regain the fence noted on the ascent and head south alongside it. You soon reach a cairn built in memory of a member of a mountain rescue team killed by lightning, which is perched high above the valley of Hengwm. The path turns east to the summit of Drysgol where there is a fine retrospective of Aran Fawddwy. Turn south once more to the rather boggy col just short of Waun Goch. Here turn south-west on the clear and easy path descending back to the starting point. I have completed this walk in both directions and in my opinion the route given above is the best. For those with energy to spare an extension along the ridge over Erw y Ddafad-ddu to Aran Benllyn is worth the effort although don't underestimate the extra time needed especially during the short days of winter. Suggested Maps It is recommended you take a map with you when following a walk route. The preferred scale is 1:25000 used by the Explorer series.
Note : If two maps are listed at the same scale then either (a) both are required for full coverage of the route or (b) the route is covered on both maps. Maes Coch, Dolgellau - Gwynedd Plas Isa, Dolgellau - Gwynedd Plas Tyn y Coed, Llanymawddwy, Snowdonia - Gwynedd Abercelyn Country House, Bala - Llanycil - Gwynedd The Barn at Tyn-Y-Fron, Bala, Llandderfel - Gwynedd Marians Bed and Breakfast, Talybont, Barmouth - Gwynedd Gilfach Goch, Llanbedr - Gwynedd Fron Deg B&B, Maentwrog - Gwynedd The Don, Blaenau Ffestiniog - Gwynedd Merton Villa B&B, Tywyn - Gwynedd Self Catering Directory Walks & Peaks Bedsearcher Hostelbookers - Hostels in England, Scotland and Wales
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