Walks and pubs in Snowdonia.

Eryri covers the mountains of north-west Wales, from the Carneddau and Glyderau in the north to Cadair Idris in the south. It became a national park in 1951 and holds Yr Wyddfa, at 1,085 m the highest mountain in Wales.

For a van weekend it splits neatly into valleys: Ogwen for big ridges, the Llugwy valley around Capel Curig and Betws-y-Coed for woods, lakes and waterfalls, and the south around Dolgellau for quieter hills.

Getting there

The A5 runs through the middle of the park from Betws-y-Coed to Bethesda, and the A55 follows the north coast. The Conwy Valley line reaches Betws-y-Coed by train, and the Sherpa'r Wyddfa buses link the main valleys and trailheads.

Where to walk

The Ogwen Valley has Tryfan, the Glyderau and Cwm Idwal. Around Capel Curig, Moel Siabod and the Llyn Mymbyr loop are good on a clear day, and the valley walks still work when the tops are in cloud. In the south, Cadair Idris, the Precipice Walk and the Torrent Walk are all within a short drive of Dolgellau.

Staying over in a van

Laybys and car parks fill quickly and many don't allow overnight stays, so plan the night before the walk. Campsites are spread through every valley, and a few pubs will let you stay if you eat with them. Pen-y-Pass car park has to be booked ahead at busy times.

When to go

Eryri is wet: pack waterproofs whatever the forecast says. May, June and September tend to give the clearest days, and the waterfalls are at their best after heavy rain.