Aran Fawddwy from Llanuwchllyn

Route Description for Aran Fawddwy from Llanuwchllyn

This is a long walk with little shelter from the sun on a clear day, so make sure you’re well-prepared for a full day’s journey before starting your walk. If you’re lucky enough to take on Aran Fawddwy on a clear day, the views will make every step worth it!

From the car park, take the trail that leads directly south (don’t be tempted to cross the bridge). The trail climbs gently and gradually. You’ll cross a cattle grid, then follow a bridleway that heads off to the right. Remain on this trail until it turns right again. Here, leave the trail and take the signed path leading to the main ridge.

The trail is obvious and easy to follow as it gains steady elevation. Enjoy the views of Arenig Fawr opening up to your right. Keep an eye out for Snowdon in the distance!

The trail climbs onto the ridge eventually after following beside it. You’ll have to scramble a few rocky sections here, but don’t expect anything challenging or scary.

Once you’re on the ridge, you’ll be able to make out Llyn Llwbran below. Follow the trail along the ridge until you crest the summit of Aran Benllyn. That’s right- you’re not quite there yet!

Continue over Erw y Ddafad du, the smallest of the three peaks, and then up to the summit of Aran Fawddwy. You’ll find a natural balcony ridge where you can take a seat and admire the views, which are certainly welcome after the long haul you just completed.

Once you’ve caught your breath again, you’ll simply descend back the way you come. Enjoy the view of the Arans on your way down to the valley.

Note that some hikers do this as a loop trail, descending to the east after Drysgol. If you choose this method, ensure you stay atop the ridge until you’ve reached the very eastern side of Drysgol. The east side of the mountain is very steep and too dangerous to descend.

Trail Highlights

The Aran Range

The range that Aran Fawddwy belongs to is the highest in the southern part of Wales, and the mountain itself is the second-highest in the region behind Snowdon. Atop Aran Fawddwy on an exceptionally clear day, you can see as far as the Lake District in England and the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland.