Snowdonia National Park

Eryri, known in English as Snowdonia National Park, is located in North Wales, covering the counties of Gwynedd and Conwy. Nearby cities and towns include Bangor, Betws-y-Coed, Porthmadog, and Caernarfon, all of which provide convenient access points to the park. Established in 1951, Snowdonia is the oldest national park in Wales and is renowned for its rugged mountain landscapes, deep valleys, and rich Welsh cultural heritage. The park is home to Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa), the highest mountain in Wales and England, which has long been a symbol of Welsh pride and natural beauty. The park offers numerous parking facilities, with designated car parks at popular locations such as Pen y Pass (the starting point for several Snowdon routes), Llanberis, and Ogwen Valley. Parking can be limited during peak times, and most car parks operate on a pay-and-display basis, with fees contributing to the maintenance of the park. Advanced booking is recommended for some car parks, particularly at Pen y Pass. Eryri is home to a variety of wildlife, including the rare and protected peregrine falcon, red kite, and otters. The park’s diverse habitats also support species like mountain goats, polecats, and a variety of bat species. Birdwatchers may also spot choughs and ring ouzels in the park’s upland areas. The flora of Snowdonia is equally diverse, with ancient woodlands, heather-clad moors, and unique alpine plants such as the Snowdon lily, which is found nowhere else in the UK. The park is also known for its striking waterfalls, such as Swallow Falls and Aber Falls. Public transport to Snowdonia is well-established, with regular train services to Bangor, Betws-y-Coed, and Porthmadog, from where buses connect visitors to various parts of the park. This accessibility, combined with the park’s dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity, makes Snowdonia a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.