Nestled among wooded vales and winding rivers in Eryri/Snowdonia National Park, the village captivates visitors with its legendary folklore and breathtaking mountain scenery
Nestled within the heart of Eryri/Snowdonia National Park lies the hidden gem of Beddgelert village.
While many travellers often pass it by completely en route to scale Mount Snowdon, this picturesque hamlet is undoubtedly worth the stop.
Surrounded by rolling green valleys, winding rivers and backdropped by soaring mountains, Beddgelert harbours centuries of history and is steeped in Welsh legend and folklore.
The stone-built village straddles a babbling stream and makes an excellent starting point for exploring the region’s trails and footpaths, whether it’s the Aberglaslyn Pass to the south, Nant Gwyan to the east or attempting Snowdon to the north.
According to the Beddgelert website, the surrounding terrain deserves attention: “Wooded vales, rocky slopes and mountain lakes fill the surrounding countryside.”
“And what a countryside it is, with scenery, activities, attractions, history and culture for all.”
Welsh tourism experts suggest “everyone loves Beddgelert”, with its legendary origins adding to its charm.
The village’s name translates to “Gelert’s grave”, linking the hamlet to the medieval story of Llywelyn the Great and his faithful hound Gelert.
The tale recounts how Llywelyn returned home one day to find his baby missing and Gelert with blood around his mouth. Mistakenly believing Gelert had killed his child, Llywelyn struck down his faithful hound.
Moments afterwards, he heard his baby’s cry and discovered them unharmed, lying beside a dead wolf that Gelert had courageously fought off to protect the infant.
Consumed by remorse for killing his loyal companion, Llywelyn arranged an elaborate funeral for Gelert in the village.
During the 18th century, a local innkeeper constructed a memorial grave for the dog, and today a walk and trail provides an excellent opportunity to discover the village and its encompassing hills.
After your exploration, the charming yet inviting village has much to offer, whether you’re checking into one of the hotels, B&Bs, or guesthouses, or whiling away the afternoon beside a crackling fire in a local pub.
Despite its legendary reputation, Beddgelert remains a modest village, with a population of under 500 residents, yet it radiates warmth and personality.
Its cobblestone lanes, medieval stone dwellings, and traditional pubs evoke a fairytale atmosphere, establishing it as a perfect autumn destination, with Fine Country event recognising it as one of Britain’s “prettiest autumn villages”.
For an alternative glimpse into the village’s past, the neighbouring Sygun Copper Mine merits exploration. Copper extraction in the Snowdon valleys spans centuries, with certain records suggesting activity dating back to Roman occupation.
To appreciate its more contemporary heritage, Beddgelert also sits along the historic Welsh Highland Railway, which operates between Caernarfon and Porthmadog.
