walkingbritain banner
spacer



Walk 3017 - Aran Benllyn & Aran Fawddwy from Llanuwchllyn

    

Nat Park   Snowdonia
County/Area   Gwynedd
AuthorLou Johnson
Length10.0 miles / 16.3 km
Ascent3315 feet / 1005 metres
Grademoderate/hard
Startgrid reference SH879297

Photo from the walk - Aran Benllyn & Aran Fawddwy from Llanuwchllyn 
Click thumbnails for larger images.

Although not an avid exponent of the out-and-back walk, this route is good enough to justify inclusion. The picture below illustrates well what is in store with the route following the ridge from right to left and visiting all three peaks on the main Aran ridge.

The start is a small car park (Grid ref. SH879297) beside the Afon Twrch in the village of Llanuwchllyn at the southern end of Lake Bala. From the car park do not go over the bridge but take the track that heads south. This climbs gradually and after crossing two cattle grids follow the bridleway that forks to the right. Stay on this until it turns right and leave it to follow the signed footpath that leads onto the main Aran ridge.

The climb is steady and the path clear. As you climb you get ever improving views to your right with Arenig Fawr clearly in view. Beyond you may be able to see many of the other great mountains of northern Snowdonia including Snowdon itself. Eventually the path follows the ridge after shadowing for some way and you will find yourself gaining height more quickly as you ascend a couple of rocky steps in the ridge. Away to your left and far below is Llyn Lliwbran with the rounded hills of the Arans spread out beyond.

Eventually you will reach the summit of Aran Benllyn with its quartz speckled summit rocks adding a splash of colour to the scene. With one top 'ticked off' you can continue over Erw y Ddafad du, the lowest peak of the trio, to reach Aran Fawddwy. This is a super summit with a fine airy balcony on which to perch and enjoy the view. Having rested turn around and head back the way you came. Surprisingly you will see the Arans from a different perspective as you descend gently into the valley and return to the starting point.

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.

OS Explorer1:25,000Sheet OL23
OS Landranger1:50,000Sheet 125

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.

Abercelyn Country House, Bala - Llanycil - Gwynedd
Country House - 5 miles / 7 km away

The Barn at Tyn-Y-Fron, Bala, Llandderfel - Gwynedd
Self Catering - 5 miles / 7 km away

Maes Coch, Dolgellau - Gwynedd
Self Catering - 11 miles / 18 km away

Plas Isa, Dolgellau - Gwynedd
Bunkhouse - 11 miles / 18 km away

Fron Deg B&B, Maentwrog - Gwynedd
Bed & Breakfast - 14 miles / 22 km away

The Don, Blaenau Ffestiniog - Gwynedd
Guest House - 14 miles / 22 km away

Bryn Bella Guest House, Betws-y-Coed - Conwy
Guest House - 15 miles / 24 km away

Glan Aber Hotel, Betws-y-Coed - Conwy
Hotel - 15 miles / 24 km away

Bryn Afon Guest House, Betws-y-Coed - Conwy
Bed & Breakfast - 15 miles / 24 km away

Gwrach Ynys Country Guest House, Harlech - Gwynedd
Guest House - 17 miles / 27 km away

Self Catering Directory
A wide range of properties throughout UK & Europe

Walks & Peaks Bedsearcher
Search, choose and book your accommodation online.

Hostelbookers - Hostels in England, Scotland and Wales

 


SITE NEWS

Merrell Chameleon
This gear review puts these Chameleon shoes through their paces. A robust and secure hiking shoe, they offer a lot of protection from uneven terrain and from the elements.
More info.

Merrell Boots
Every walker needs comfortable boots. These new boots from Merrell provide great support and are suitable for both sexes.
More info.



 

spacer
Copyright © 1999 - 2008 Walking Britain. All rights reserved.