Tucked away between Snowdonia to the west and England to the east are the serene mountains of the Berwyn Range. Among them, you’ll find the highest waterfall in Wales, the highest peak in Wales outside of the country’s national parks, green valleys, purple heather slopes, and magnificent birds of prey – yet few residents or visitors. If you’re looking for somewhere to go walking in North Wales, you’ve just stumbled upon one of the region’s best-kept secrets. Here’s our guide to three walking routes in the Berwyn Range.
Easy walks in the Berwyn Range
Stroll the Ceiriog Valley
Starting at the little slate-roofed village of Llanarmon DC, a gentle walking route leads through the tree-speckled basin of the Ceiriog Valley. It joins the Upper Ceiriog Way before looping back to its starting point.
The lush scenery of the Ceiriog Valley is home to magnificent, rare wildlife – keep an eye out for kites, buzzards and polecats among its meadows, woodlands, and skies. If you want to add even more relaxation to your stroll, sip a drink and rest your legs at one of the country pubs that line the route.
This is an easy walk with very little incline and free of noteworthy obstacles.
Distance: 3.3 miles
Total ascent: 672 ft
Time: 1.5 hours
Moderate Walks in the Berwyn Range
Climb Cadair Berwyn from Pistyll Rhaeadr
Being the highest Welsh waterfall and one of the 7 wonders of Wales, Pistyll Rhaeadr is among the few tourist hotspots in the otherwise largely undiscovered Berwyn Range. The falls are busy with visitors during bank holidays and school holidays, but even during these times you can expect to be awed by the majesty of its cascades. Thanks to a trail that leads from the Pistyll Rhaeadr car park, you can combine a visit to the falls with a walk up the highest peak in the Berwyn Range, Cadair Berwyn.
The trail leads up a valley edge, passing the mountain lake Llyn Lluncaws on its steady ascent. As it clambers up and onto the high ridge of Craig Y Llyn, panoramic views unfold over the surrounding peaks and valleys. After cresting the peak of Cadair Berwyn, you’ll cross two lower peaks, Moel Sych and Trum Felen, during the gradual descent. The walk ends near the top edge of Pistyll Rhaeadr from where you can admire the waterfall’s-eye-view of the valley below.
If the adventure has worked up your appetite, you can enjoy a bite to eat and drink from the nearby café.
Distance: 5.1 miles
Total ascent: 1,932 ft
Time: approx. 5 hours
Challenging walks in the Berwyn Range
Hike the North Berwyn Way
The North Berwyn Way winds east-west through, up, and over the wild heather-clad peaks of the remote north of the Berwyn Range along a waymarked trail that runs between the villages of Llangollen and Corwen. If you are looking for a challenging walking route in North Wales, this one is a great choice.
The route is made up of five sections. Each begins and ends at easily accessible points, meaning you can easily shorten the route if you wish. On the other hand, if you’re up for a longer hike, you can combine the North Berwyn Way with the Dee Valley Way to form a circular route of 30-miles.
Distance: 15.1 miles
Total ascent: 2,349 ft
Time: 8 hours
These are only a few of the wonderful walking routes that lead through the Berwyn Range. Many more of all lengths and levels of challenge lie waiting to be discovered.
Wherever your walking boots lead you, don’t forget it’s always a good idea to pack a waterproof jacket, some food, and plenty of water.
Inspired to go walking in North Wales and need somewhere to stay?
Book a break in our pet-friendly cottage or enquire about our holiday homes if you’d like to own your own private escape among the glorious mountains of the Berwyn Range.