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Bookmark & shareA Top Day in Snowdonia National Park
Snowdonia means mountains. Britain's second-highest peak is rugged Mt Snowdon, but there are plenty of other satellite peaks in the national park whose jagged, rocky peaks and ridges offer thrills in abundance. So, fortitude gained through a hearty breakfast, I'm off to Llyn Ogwen to scale Glyder Fach and Glyder Fawr. The scramble up Devil's Kitchen gets the blood flowing, and the panoramic views from the summit sweep far across the park and out to sea; I could spend all day up there, but if I don't feel like walking, I can get all the scenery I need without stretching the legs. I let the bus do the work between Llanberis and Betws-y-Coed or I ride the vintage Ffestiniog Railway from Porthmadog to mining-ravaged Blaenau Ffestiniog for some classic Snowdonia scenery. Countless hordes take the mountain railway up Snowdon, but I can do better than that! Falling away to the sea, the park's outer edges are home to disparate coastal treats. On the northern coast, Llandudno (actually outside the park but within easy striking distance) epitomises the British seaside resort - Victorian promenades, chintzy B&Bs, fish and chips, and sloppy ice creams. In Snowdonia's far southwest, Aberdovey is an unspoilt fishing village with an artistic community and miles of pristine golden sand. I grab a bottle, build a fire and soak up the long summer evening. Back in the mountains, I'll probably drop in to a pub or local cafe for a freshly cooked feast of local meat or fresh fish. Time for bed? Not quite. The national park might be a long way from the bright lights, but there's a clutch of places where I can kick back with a couple of beers before hitting the sack for a well-earned rest. And I'll sleep well, because tomorrow I'll be doing it all over again.
Author: Nigel Wallis
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