Sunday 12 February 2012

Best Day Walks in Snowdonia?


It’s always a bit subjective and I can’t help but be biased. Frontispiece overlooking the mouth of the Dwyryd, with Rhinogydd behind, was a promising start but, as a Moelwyn man, I’m sad to see Moelwynion get barely a mention.  Cnicht and Moel Siabod, yes, but what about Moelwyn Mawr and Bach?

As for the list of best bases, everywhere from Bala to Bangor to Tywyn but no Blaenau Ffestiniog – the 3rd largest town in Gwynedd and most central to the whole of Snowdonia. It might be excluded from the national park but it is most definitely at the heart of it all.

Putting aside my parochial prejudices it is a beautiful book which inspires me to get out and try new walks. Well illustrated and well-written with just the right amount of interesting detail.  

Inevitably a single volume is going to be a compromise compared to the 4 volume epic published last year  - Pictorial Guide to the Mountains of Snowdonia. But maybe I should see the absence of my home patch as a plus point, don’t want the crowds shattering the peace and wearing down the rocks.

Published 22nd March 2012 by Frances Lincoln. RRP £12.99.

For the discerning walker this is what the Vale of Ffestiniog has to offer

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