This is a circular walk on the Nannau estate near Llanfachreth on the outskirts of Dolgellau. Thanks to the cooperation of the landowner, this circular walk offers spectacular views of south Meirionnydd.
Why this path?
This walk can be combined with another circular walk beginning at the Saithgroesffordd Car park to form a longer, figure of 8 route. During this walk, you’ll enjoy panoramic mountain views in every direction from Yr Wyddfa and the Moelwynion to the north, the Rhinogydd to the west, the impressive scarp of Cader Idris to the south, and the Aran and Arenig mountains to the east.
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The National Park Authority has categorised this route as a moderate route. It is suitable for people with some countryside walking experience and a reasonable level of fitness.
Walking boots and waterproof layers are essential. It’s a hard path to the southern viewpoint, otherwise a natural path with some uneven and wet sections. There are no steep inclines.
Start / Finish: Saithgroesffordd car park
There are also toilet facilities at this car park. Check to see when they are open.
Grid reference: SH 745211
Saith Groesffordd Car Park, Llanfachreth (SH 746 212)
If you’re driving, always park in designated parking places and never in areas where you block entrances to fields or residential areas.
Stay safe and help protect the countryside by reading the information about safety and following the Countryside Code.
Cymer Abbey
A stone’s throw from Llyn Cynwch, near the community of Llanelltyd, stands Cymer Abbey—a Cistercian abbey founded in 1198. The abbey has strong connections to the Princes of Wales. It is believed to be founded under the patronage of two brothers, Gruffudd and Maredudd ap Cynan, grandsons of Owain Gwynedd.
Nannau Estate
On the southern side of Llyn Cynwch is the mansion of Nannau estate.
Nannau has a fascinating history of iconic Welsh characters. The present house, which is almost 750ft above sea level, was built in 1796 and was the residence of the Vaughan family, who owned most of the land in the area. It is a three-storey, late 18th century stone house built with dressed blocks of local dark grey stone. Nannau was the last mansion to practice the old tradition of sponsoring poets and harpists.
