Eryri (Snowdonia)

Rising above Dolgellau, Cadair Idris is one of the defining landscapes of Southern Eryri. Its name translates as ‘Idris’ Chair’, and legend tells of the giant Idris who once sat upon the mountain.

Today, Cadair Idris is one of Eryri’s most rewarding mountains to explore, with several walking routes leading into its dramatic landscape. From the summit, the views stretch across Southern Eryri and towards the coast on a clear day.

While Cadair Idris sits high above Dolgellau, and the mountain range dominates the views for miles around, there’s so much more to our beautiful little town than the majestic mountain perched above.

Dolgellau is a short stroll down the hill and along the Mawddach Estuary from Penmaenuchaf, and is now a thriving destination, bustling with independent shops, cafes and pubs. It has more listed buildings than any other town in Wales, with over 200 on the urban conservation list.

As you wander along the narrow streets or take a seat in one of the squares, soak up the surroundings and see if you can spot signs of the town’s past as a regional centre for the Welsh woollen industry – like high up doors and pulley systems. Keep an eye out in particular for the small round windows at the top of buildings, as these were said to be hidden meeting houses for the Quakers.