The must-visit photography spots in Snowdonia National Park
The Glyderau and Carneddau above the clouds
Within this blog I have pulled together a list of some of my favourite, and what I would argue to be the best photography locations in Snowdonia.
I have not explored every inch of this wonderful national park. And although I have sought out as many of Snowdonia’s most beautiful, popular, and photogenic locations, I will have certainly missed out several hidden gems.
I will finish by saying that there are compositions and incredible locations in all corners of the park and just outside its borders, especially under the right lighting or weather conditions. So get out there and get shooting….
Afan Lloer & Tryfan
A classic shot of the Ogwen Valley looking towards the indistinguishable peak of Tryfan. Here you’ll find plethora of compositions involving both the Afan Lloer and wooded stiles situated a little further up the side of the valley.
Free parking is available on the side of the A5 at the western end of Llyn Ogwen. From the road side it’s a short 15-20 minute walk up alongside the river.
If you’re lucky you might even capture a glimpse (or photo) of the wild horses which roam the slopes of the Carneddau.
Pen yr Ole Wen
Lying at the southern end of the Carneddau range, the 978m Pen yr Ole Wen is the 7th highest mountain in Snowdonia
Pyramidal in appearance, the mighty mountain towers high above the Ogwen valley and offers sensational views from its summit towards Tryfan, the Glyderau, and Y-Garn. It’s prominence and isolated location also makes it a great location to watch the sunrise .
The easiest route to the summit is from western end of Llyn Ogwen. On route you will pass by the Afan Lloer (above). The route is 3km in length and involves around 660m of elevation gain.
Cwm Idwal & Devils kitchen
A spectacular product of glaciation, Cwm Idwal is a bowl shaped hollow sat beneath the Glyderau range. Situated at it’s base is Llyn Idwal, a stunning mountain lake which is enveloped by the high craggy amphitheatre which looms above.
On all sides you can see the legacy of the huge glacier that once filled this space and the area is magical no matter the season or weather.
Looking back at Cwm Idwal
The great thing about Cwm Idwal is that it offers so many compositions of the surrounding mountains. One of the most popular is the view looking back towards Pen-yr-Ole Wen, which can be snapped from the valley below or from the Devils Kitchen.
If you are luck you might even capture the wild mountain goats which have been known to roam the area.
Parking is available at the Ogwen Visitor centre or on the side of the A5. From there Llyn Idwal is easily reachable via a short 1km walk which involves less than 100m of elevation gain.
From the northern shoreline of Llyn Idwal the hike to the stile at the top of Devils Kitchen is just under one mile and involves around 300m of elevation gain. The hike isn’t for everyone as it is very steep in sections and involves aspects of scrambling and navigating some loose scree.
The view from the top of the devils kitchen
Llyn Ogwen boathouse
Another classic low level location which can be easily accessed from the side of the A5. The boathouse is opposite the National Trust Ogwen cottage, parking is available at the Ogwen Visitor centre or on the side of the A5 and can be reached by hopping over the stone wall. Again this would be a great choice for sunrise.
Y Garn
Often overlooked for the surrounding peaks in the Ogwen Valley, Y Garn is one of my favourite mountains in Snowdonia.
The 10th highest peak in Wales has arguably one of the best summit views in the National Park which can easily be reached in a little over an hour.
From the summit you have 360 degree panoramic views and a plethora of compositions to choose from. in one direction you have panorama of Pen-yr-Ole Wen, the Ogwen Valley, Tryfan, and the Glyderau.
Swinging south you then have the Snowdon Massif, Llanberis, and the layers of southern Snowdonia. Then along the ridge to the north west you have Elidir Fawr.
At times it’s almost too much to take in and can actually be a distraction when trying to decide what to focus your attention on. Because of its 360 summit views, Y Garn makes an great choice for both sunset and sunrise.
Parking is once again available at the Ogwen Visitor centre or on the side of the A5. The shortest route to the summit is straight up its north face which is 2.6km in length and involves 630m of elevation. Alternatively you can head past Llyn Idwal and up through Devils Kitchen which is 4.6km one way.
Glyder Fach & Fawr
Possibly two of the most unique mountains in Snowdonia, which offer great views back towards the Snowdon Massif.
The summits, which are extremely rocky and resemble something out of a Ridley Scott movie, are home to several unique features including the minor summit of Castell y Gwynt and the cantilever stone.
Again Parking is avaible on the side of the A5 in the Ogwen Valley, with the best route to the summit being via the Devils kitchen or the bristly ridge.
Castell y Gwynt and the Snowdon Massif
Tryfan
At 918m, Tryfan may only be the fifteenth-highest mountain in Wales but its unique shark toothed shape makes it one of most recognisable.
Due to its notoriety surrounding how difficult it is to climb, Tryfan is one of the more sought out mountains in the National park.
Now I have already listed the best places to photograph this peak, which include the Ogwen valley, the summit of Pen yr Ole Wen or from alongside the Afon Lloer.
However I would recommend climbing Tryfan to get the sensational views back over the Ogwen Valley or to get a snap of the impressive cannon stone which sits along its notorious north ridge.
Cannon Stone, Tryfan
the summit of Tryfan
Snowdon Summit
An absolute classic and one of the most popular views in the national park.
There’s not doubt about it, the view from the summit of Snowdon on a clear day is quite simply incredible. However what isn’t incredible is the hordes of people, litter, and seagulls you will also find up on the summit.
I was bitterly underwhelmed the first time I summited Snowdon, mainly because I felt as if was in the mist of a Black Friday sale rather than on the top of Wales highest mountain.
Since then my opinion has been changed by some simply breathtaking experiences on the summit, including a sunrise cloud inversion which you can read about here.
This is view that everyone should experience, just expect crowds even at the early hours. I recently bivvied next to the café and awoke at 4:30am to find 60 people already on the summit.
I’d actually recommend heading up for sunset as it seems to be a less popular option than sunrise. (and it also means you dont have to get out of bed at stupid o’clock). For a guide to the six different routes up Snowdon check out this page.
Llyn Llydaw
Llyn Llydaw is the largest of the three lakes on Snowdon's eastern flank. It is also one of at least three Welsh lakes that claim to contain King Arthur’s magical sword, Excalibur.
The best views over the lake are from the saddle between Y-Lliwedd and Snowdon. To reach it you will have to take the Watkin Path which begins at Pont Bethania, in Nant Gwynant. The route is 5km in length and involves around 681m of elevation gain.
Alternatively the lake can be reached via the Miners Track which begins at the Pen-y-pass.
Llyn Llydaw from the Miners Track
Llynnau Mymbyr
Situated just outside of Capel Curig, Llynnau Mymbyr is a series of two lakes situated just off the A4086.
From the eastern end of the lake you have a terrific view back towards the Snowdon massif, which on a calm and clear day can provide mirror like reflections of Wales’s highest mountain.
Free parking is avaible on the side of the A4086 next to Plas-y-Brenin outdoor activity centre, from there its a short two minute walk down to the side of the lake.
Lllyn mynabyr - James_Lindsay / Shutterstock.com
The lonely tree, Llyn Padarn
An iconic Snowdonia photography spot which is often top of a landscape photographers must visit list.
The magical warped tree sits alone on the pebbled foreshore of Llyn Padarn and has a magnificent mountainous backdrop, which on a clear and calm day can provide stunning mirror like reflections.
Free parking is available is small gravel car park on the southern shores of the lake, just outside of Llanberis. From the car park follow the path along it shoreline into the forested glade. After a hundred or so meters the Lonely Tree should appear on your right hand side.
Sunrise is the best time to visit, although don’t expect to have the place to yourself.
Dolbardan Castle
The solitary guardian of Snowdonia’s Llanberis Pass. Built in the late 12th Century this ancient ruin occupies a lofty, lonely spot overlooking the waters of Llyn Padarn.
Parking is available at Padarn Country park car park and access to the site is free between 10am–4pm. You are able to visit outside of these hours, however you wont be able to enter the castle.
Dinorwic slate quarry
One of my favourite locations on his list.
Dinorwic quarry is an adventurers and photographers playground. The rusted and scared remains of the quarries industrial past, combined with the magnificent mountainous backdrop mean there’s almost unlimited compositions and scenes to capture.
The quarry is free to visit and is open 24/7. Parking is available at Padarn Country park car park and from there its steep climb up through the Snowdonia slate trail past Anglesey barracks (image below) to the view point which overlooks the valley below.
Anglesey Barracks
Once at the viewpoint I would recommend climbing over the fencing next to the electric tram tracks and explore the upper quarries at your hearts content.
If you do this, common sense and caution is advised as Disused quarries are extremely dangerous places.
Aber Falls
Aber Falls is one of Snowdonia’s most impressive and beautiful waterfalls. The 37m high cascade is located just off the North Wales coast in the north of the national park.
Access to the waterfall is via a beautiful 2km low level walk which is perfect for those with families. The pushchair friendly path winds through a beautiful valley before emerging at the base of this mighty cascade of water.
For more information on the walk to Aber Falls, including where to park, check out my guide below.
Llyn Nantlle Uchaf
A beautiful lake located at the eastern end of Snowdonia beneath the shadow of the Nantlle ridge. The lake has series of wooden boats on its eastern shoreline which make for a picturesque composition, especially at sunrise.
Parking is available on the side off the B4418 on its eastern shoreline. From there you simply have to hop over a gate and walk 30m to see the boats which occupy its shoreline.
A word of warning, tread carefully when visiting this location. The lake is located on private land which belongs to an rather impatient and disgruntled farmer. In fact I have officially been banned from visiting this location again.
Tu Hwnt I'r Bont - Llanrwst
This is an idyllic grade two listed cottage set on the banks of the river Conwy next to an three arch stone bridge.
Alongside its gorgeous location, what makes the cottage so unique and photogenic is the fact its completed enveloped in Virginia Creepers which transform with the seasons.
Over the centuries Tu Hwnt i’r Bont has fallen into disrepair several times and been rebuilt and restored through the generosity of the townsfolk. More recently it has been acquired by the National Trust and turned into a traditional Welsh Tea Room.
The best time to visit this location is early Autumn (mid September) when the leaves on the cottage will transform from green to a striking red. This date can change each year so keep an eye on their facebook page for updates, as you’ll only have a short window of several weeks before the leaves drop off and you’ll be left with a rather bare house.
Parking is avaible just past the tea room on the western side of the river.
Fairy Glen - Betws-y-Coed
A rocky, tree-lined ravine beside a winding creek which according to legend is occupied by resident sprites.
Call me miserable, but I was actually underwhelmed by this location. There’s not a lot to see or be impressed by and if you visit outside of golden hour or autumn the composition looks a little bare.
Parking is available here for £1 and from there it’s a short 10 minute walk to the Glen.
Penmachno Bridge - Betws-y-coed
As opposed to Fairy Glen, this is a location I would recommend visiting as it’s extremely tranquil and the water is crystal clear. There’s limited parking just off the B4406 as you drive over the bridge. If you do fancy a wild swim, pack a towel and swim suit as the river is very accessible from its banks.
Rhaeadr Eynnol - Swallow Falls
Rhaeadr Ewynnol actually translates from Welsh to ‘foaming waterfall’. This picturesque waterfall which cascades down the River Llugwy is located around two miles outside of Betws-y-Coed in Snowdonia National Park.
Free parking is available in the layby opposite the Swallow Falls Hotel. Access to the two purpose built platforms which you can view the waterfalls from is via secure prison-like turnstile which costs £2 per person.
Stwlan Dam - Blaenau Ffestiniog
Sitting at an elevation of 512m (1,679ft), the Stwlan Dam was built to supply water to the Blaenau Ffestiniog power station.
The road leading up to the dam is 2.7km long at has an average gradient of 10.1%. It has 8 hairpin bends, is closed to cars, and has a summit finish making it extremely popular with road cyclists.
It’s the winding road coupled with the mountain back drop which makes this a great location for drone photography.
You can either access this dam by walking up the winding road from the free car park located beneath Cwmorthin Waterfall.
Alternatively for views over the dam and surround national park, you can hike up to Moelwyn Mawr or Bach from the remote mining village of Croesor. You can find all the details of that hike blog below.
Moel Siabod
Located in the north west of the National Park, this solitary peak may not the highest mountain in Snowdonia, however the views from its 872m summit are absolutely sensational.
On a clear day you’ll have panoramic views across the national park alongside being able to see 13 of the 14 Welsh 3,000s. The summit’s isolated location and views towards Snowdon also make it a great spot to watch both the sunset and sunrise.
For all the information on how to hike up Moel Siabod check out my hike guide below.
On the route up to the summit you’ll also pass through a slate quarry, which also makes for a great photography location.
Cregennan lakes
A series of two stunning mountain lakes situated on the northern slopes of Cadiar idris in southern Snowdonia.
Unbeknownst to many, this spot is hardly visited with tourists often flocking to hike the neighbouring Cadair Idris or driving further north to hotspots of the National Park.
The lakes location, which is 800ft above sea level, means you will also get tremendous views of the Mawddach Estuary and Barmouth Bridge. There’s also a gorgeous wooden boathouse on the northern shore of the lake beneath Pared y Cefn Hir which makes for a beautiful focus point.
The lake is owned by the National trust and you’ll find free parking and toilets right next to the lake. Access is either from Dollgellau via a narrow mountain road which involves passing through a farm gate, or via very steep mountain road from the village of Arthog.
The summit of Pared y Cefn Hir
Cader Idris
At 893 m (2,930 ft), Cader (or Cadair) Idris is the highest mountain in southern Snowdonia and one of the three mountains which make up the Welsh Three Peaks challenge.
Situated beneath the mountains southern slopes is the beautiful Llyn Cau. The lake is situated in natural bowl-shaped depression and is enveloped on three sides by the imposing cliffs.
This crater-like shape has given rise to the mistaken claim that Cadair Idris is an extinct volcano. However the lake is in fact formed by the abrasion of rock by a massive a cirque glacier which used to sit in the chair shaped hollow. Hence the English translation of the mountain to Idris Chair.
Outside of Snowdonia
Conwy castle
A UNESCO world heritage site which sits at the tip of North Wales.
This famous fortress is exceptionally well preserved containing the most intact set of medieval royal apartments in Wales. The high curtain wall and eight lofty towers rise high above the town almost as impressively as when they were built more than 700 years ago.
Its not just the fortress which is impressive, in the distance looms the lofty mountains of Snowdonia and spread beneath the castle is the the harbour and narrow streets of Conwy – still protected by an unbroken 1,400-yard ring of town walls.
Limited parking is available in front of the RNLI lifeboat station, Alternatively if you want to view the castle from the other side of the bridge you can park lidl and make a short 100m walk to the promenade.
Portmeirion
Portmeirion is an enchanting Italianate style village situated off the bay of Ceredigion just outside the boundary of Snowdonia National Park.
This unique picturesque coastal village was purposely designed and built over a 50 year period to look like an Italian village. Described as “a gorgeous visual poem” by the Rough Guide to Wales, the village is lined with Riviera inspired houses and every corner is lined with whimsical features.
Resident free, the village is now owned by the charitable trust and is run as tourist attraction. It’s home to two hotels, a spa, several cafes and restaurants alongside an authentic Italian gelateria.
The Village is usually open every day from 9.30am to 5.30pm, with tickets are available from the entrance. Check out the Portmeirion website for current prices and opening hours.
Photo by Yukon Haughton on Unsplash
Photo by Erika Lahiza on Unsplash
Ynys Llanddwyn & Newborough forest
My highlight and possibly the the most beautiful location on the Island. This stunning outcrop of land is one of the most picturesque locations in Wales and was designated as Wales’ first coastal National Nature Reserve back in 1955.
Situated on the island is the Instagram worthy white lighthouse and church which was once home to Saint Dwynwen - the Welsh patron saint of lovers. Alongside the lighthouse, the island has several secluded golden sanded coves which give you an incredible vistas looking back towards the mountain range of Snowdonia.
There is one large park situated next Newborough beach (postcode LL61 6SG) and to reach it you have to pass through a toll barrier which costs £4 for the day. From the car park, the walk to the tip of Llanddwyn Island will take about 30-45 minutes and requires either passing through the magnificent
I would recommend heading down in the late afternoon or early evening and staying for sunset as the toll barrier most probably will be up and the place will be much quieter. In addition you will hopefully get to see this place under a magical orange glow as I did the first time I visited.
Eglwys Cwyfan- The Church in the sea, Anglesey
The name is self explanatory, simply it is church in the sea. Founded in the 7th century, the church of St Cwyfan used to be part of the mainland however centuries of erosion has turned it into a small island which can only be accessed at low tide.
The church and surrounding coastal path are not only beautiful but very remote meaning you’re likely to find yourself undisturbed when visiting. In fact I only saw two other people during the hour I was there.
There not really a designated car park to this location and the nearest postcode is the Anglesey Circuit, from which it s a short 15 minute walk down to the beach.
Photo by Neil Mark Thomas on Unsplash
South Stack lighthouse & Nature Reserve
Another picturesque lighthouse situated on a small island of the north west side of Holy Island. Built in 1809, this 91ft lighthouse is far bigger than the one on Llanddwyn Island and was designed to allow safe passage for ships on the treacherous Dublin–Holyhead–Liverpool sea route.
Even if you don’t have the faintest interest in lighthouses, the viewpoint and surrounding cliffs are stunning and are definitely worth visiting. The South Stack cliffs are a RSPB Reserve and are home to guillemots, puffins and razorbills during the summer months.
The car park is located near the top of the cliffs, next to the RSPB Visitor centre, Holyhead LL65 1YH. From here access to the steps and viewpoint is a very short walk. If you do want to head down and take a look around the lighthouse it can be accessed by descending the 400 steps, which steeply zig zag their way down the dramatic coastal cliffs.
I would recommend heading her for sunset as you will get to se the sun dip below the horizon and hopefully be treated to a spectacular array of colour.
Menai Bridge, Anglesey
Opened in 1826, the 305m long Menai Suspension bridge spans the Menai Strait connecting the island of Anglesey and the mainland of Wales.
The colourful blue rails of the world’s first iron suspension bridge combined with its picturesque location make it great piece of architecture to photograph.
For more inspiration on what to see and places to visit in Anglesey, check out my guide below.
Photo by Neil Mark Thomas on Unsplash
Talacre lighthouse, Flintshire
Emerging from the sands of a sea battered headland of the most northerly point of mainland Wales is is the the Point of Ayr Lighthouse.
The 18m (59ft) lighthouse was built back in 1776 to guide the ships entering the Dee estuary, however has been out of service since 1844.
A great spot for watching the sunset, the base of lighthouse is accessible at low tide by taking a walk across Talcre beach from the pay and display car park.
Lake Vyrnwy
Now you should win an award if you can correctly pronounce the name of this lake.
Situated on the eastern edge of southern Snowdonia, Lake Vyrnwy is set amidst the remote and beautiful Berwyn mountains.
A designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), the man made reservoir was built in the 1880s to supply Liverpool with fresh water.
The main draw of the lake is the castle-like straining tower which looks like something tout of a fairy-tale. The 48 m high Victorian structure is linked to the shore by an arched bridge and is where the lakes water begins its journey before being transported 70 miles north to Liverpool.
The castle is located at the southern end of the lakes northern eastern shore, and can be seen from the Dam. Parking and a café can be found beneath the dam.
The straining tower at Lake Vyrnwy, Image by ray jennings from Pixabay
Pistyll Rhaeadr
Regarded as one of the ‘Seven Wonders of Wales’, Pistyll Rhaeadr is located in mid west Wales and is sandwiched between Snowdonia National Park and the Welsh border near Owestry.
The gem of a waterfall cascades 73 over three stages, with the highest section being around 40m. The waterfalls secluded location, dramatic nature, and the fact that part of it flows through an natural arch shaped rock make this one of the best in Wales.
Access to the falls is via a narrow 2-mile single track road which again can become an issue under heavy traffic in the summer months. The road will eventually lead you to the car park which costs £5 to park. There is also limited free parking located on the side of the road just before the car parks gates gated.
From here you can reach the photogenic bridge at the base of the waterfall via a flat path within mere minutes. After taking the time to admire the view I would recommend hiking up to the top of the waterfall which takes around 15 minutes.
Trefor Sea stacks, Llyn Peninsula
Located on the north coast of the Llyn Peninsula, Trefor stacks are several columns of granite which protrude from the Irish sea.
There are actually two sets of sea stacks on this delightful stretch of coastline, Ynys Fawr & Ynys Fach (which translates to big & small island). It is Ynys Fawr which is the more photographed of the two, especially around sunset.
The stacks are located several hundred yards down the coastline from the small fishing village of Trefor. Free Parking is available in front of the harbour and from here its a short half a mile westwards down the coastal path.
What makes this location even more impressive is the peaks of Yr Eifl which loom directly above the stacks. This group of hills, known as “the rival”s in English, has three separate summits, the highest of which tops out at 561m. The peaks also offer incredible panoramic views across the Llyn peninsula, Snowdonia, and Cardigan bay.
So there we have it, my guide to my favourite photography spots in Snowdonia and North Wales.
Like I mentioned previously, this list isn’t exclusive and there’s plenty of other magical spots out there waiting to be captured.
Did you find the blog useful? or what’s your favourite spot? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
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For more travel and photography inspiration around Wales check out my in-depth guides to each of my favourite regions below.
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