Walk 3017 - printer friendly version

Aran Benllyn & Aran Fawddwy from Llanuwchllyn Walk

Author - Lou Johnson

Length - 10.0 miles / 16.3 km

Ascent - 3315 feet / 1005 metres

Grade - mod/hard

Start - OS grid reference SH879297
Lat 52.853088 + Long -3.6661948
Postcode LL23 7TL (approx. location only)

Although not an avid exponent of the out-and-back walk, this Snowdonia (Eryri) walk 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 a cattle grid 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 (Eryri) 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.

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