Harlech to Llandecwyn

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
6.5-9.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
30.5 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
487 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead
Harlech to Llandecwyn

Harlech to Llandecwyn is a beautiful walk that follows an ancient Bronze Age route through the Snowdonia foothills. The iconic Harlech Castle makes for an impressive starting point. A winding countryside path passes through massive standing stones and sublime prehistoric monuments as you walk north to Llandecwyn.

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Route Description for Harlech to Llandecwyn

Start by exploring the famed Harlech Castle, built by Edward I during his invasion of Wales in the 13th century. Once you’re ready to start the route, walk behind the castle and cross over the Stryd Fawr along a winding lane that ascends in an easterly direction. Stay on this lane as it curves to the south until you reach another crossroads. Turn left and follow this lane. Stick left as you pass a standing stone on your left at the base of Foel Senigl. Continue another kilometre to a sign for a footpath—follow this, then head right through a gate. Pass another huge standing stone and arrive at a point between two stone circles on the lower northern slopes of Moel Goedog.

Continue along this track on a northeast bearing. Clamber over two stiles, and after the track starts to bend to the right, hop over a stile on your left to join the waymarked Ardudwy Way. Turn right, cross two more stiles, then left onto the ancient Bronze Age track. This curves gradually northward, leading you to the stone circle Bryn Cader Faner, one of the most striking Bronze Age structures in the UK. The trail from here heads in a northwest direction through the foothills of Y Gyrn. Veer right onto a lane and walk north before turning left onto another lane that brings you to the beautiful shores of Llyn Tecwyn Isaf. Skirt the right side of the lake, circle around to the back, and then take a right on a track that heads downhill to cross the A496 and brings you into Llandecwyn.

This walk is most commonly done as a one-way from Harlech to Llandecwyn, with railway stations in both towns facilitating easy transport. If you’d like to walk back to Harlech, simply retrace your steps along the same route in the reverse direction.

Find more amazing walks in Snowdonia:

Insider Hints for Harlech to Llandecwyn

  • If you're looking for an unforgettable walking experience, you can also check out our walking tours.

Getting to the Harlech to Llandecwyn Trailhead

The Harlech to Llandecwyn walk starts at Harlech Castle. While there is parking right at the castle, spots are limited. You may have more luck at the two main car parks nearby in Upper Harlech: Bron y Graig Isaf (short-stay) and Bron y Graig Uchaf (long-stay).

Route Information

  • When to do

    March–November

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    One Way

Harlech to Llandecwyn Elevation Graph

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Harlech to Llandecwyn Reviews

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