National Walking Month
Trefeddian to Tywyn along the beach
Difficulty – one for the strollers
Distance – 3 miles
It’s just a 5 minute walk from the hotel to the beach. Just head down to the road, cross the golf course and sand dunes before the glorious wide expanses of Aberdovey Beach open up before you. Once on the beach, turn right and keep walking, sea on your left, dunes on your right. Time the tides right and the waves will be rolling in at your feet as the extensive tidal flow of the Dyfi Estuary takes effect. After about an hour or so of walking on flat sands, Tywyn will come into sight, move to the top of the beach and onto the raised pathway above the beach. This will lead you directly onto Tywyn Promenade and the opportunity to grab an ice cream before waking to the far end of the prom. To return to the hotel, either retrace your steps or head for Tywyn Train Station in the town centre and enjoy the short scenic train ride back into Aberdovey.
Watch out for…grey seals, the petrified forest and curlews along the way
For beautiful Views – Bearded Lake
Difficulty- Moderate
Distance- 2.5 miles
This walk starts just a short drive away in Happy Valley. The walk goes across farmland, gates and stiles with stunning views that make it all worthwhile. The lake is covered in water lilies from June until September, which may have given it its name. However, local legend claims that a very large hairy monster lived in the lake and the name “bearded” refers to this creature. Legend has it that this monster was dragged out of the lake by King Arthur’s horse.
Look out for…the mark left by the monster in the stone to the side of the track
Dolgoch Waterfalls hopping off the Talyllyn Railway
Difficulty – low falls easy or high falls moderate
Distance – 1 to 3 miles
This is one for families with young children, hopping off the Talyllyn Railway to the beautiful Dolgoch Falls. The old narrow gauge railway runs through the beautiful Fathew Valley to Nant Gwernol, a journey of approximately 12 miles taking around 1 hour. Dolgoch is the halfway point. Having alighted the train take the downhill path to the lower falls where you will also see an old miners cave that extends into the slate rock face. From here you can head further downhill, alongside the river to the Dolgoch Falls Cafe, serving afternoon teas and ice creams. Alternatively follow the signposts for the middle and upper falls. The path is very uneven in parts and slippery when wet, so tread carefully, it’s well worth the effort to witness the high falls and to rest and recover at the lovely picnic area. Retrace your steps to the railway platform for the return train journey to Tywyn.
Discover…hidden caves and secret paths
Something for everyone – Morfa Mawddach Trail
Difficulty – Easy Terrain
Distance – up to 9 miles
This trail guides you along nine miles of disused railway line from Barmouth to Dolgellau, following the beautiful Mawddach Estuary. It’s a perfect walk for all ages and abilities and can be joined at several points by taking advantage of the Cambrian Coast Railway. You will also find cyclists using the trail, so a consideration for younger members of your party. Or just do a short section such as Morfa Mawddach Station (a request stop) to Barmouth or Penmaenpool. These sections have plenty of lovely picnic areas with benches so don’t forget your packed lunch from the hotel!
Look out for…Barmouth Railway Bridge, an ancient toll bridge at Penmaenpool and an old signal box now and RSPB observatory
Woodland Wanders – Nant Gwernol
Difficulty – Easy to hard
Distance - various
Nant Gwernol woodland lies on the edge of Abergynolwyn village, just a short drive from the hotel. It takes its name from a rocky river gorge with cascading waterfalls. There are three waymarked trails which follow the riverside and explore the remains of Bryn Eglwys Slate Quarry. The trails offer beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the Allt Wyllt incline.
Eye spy….The remains of the old drum house and winch