The picture-perfect village of Beddgelert in the heart of Eryri/Snowdonia National Park is a hidden gem that’s well worth a visit – and it’s even home to some Welsh myths and legends
Tucked away within the stunning Eryri/Snowdonia National Park sits the enchanting village of Beddgelert.
Whilst countless tourists speed past en route to conquer Mount Snowdon, this postcard-perfect settlement deserves a proper visit.
Embraced by sweeping emerald valleys, meandering waterways and framed by towering peaks, Beddgelert conceals centuries of fascinating heritage and serves as home to captivating Welsh folklore.
The stone-constructed village spans a gurgling brook and serves as an ideal base for discovering the area’s walking routes and pathways, from the Aberglaslyn Pass southward, Nant Gwyan eastward, or tackling Snowdon northward.
The Beddgelert website emphasises the local landscape shouldn’t be overlooked, saying: “Wooded vales, rocky slopes and mountain lakes fill the surrounding countryside.”, reports the Express.
“And what a countryside it is, with scenery, activities, attractions, history and culture for all.”
Welsh tourism specialists confirm “everyone loves Beddgelert”, with its mythical roots enhancing its appeal further.
Beddgelert’s name translates to “Gelert’s grave”, linking the settlement to the medieval tale of Llywelyn the Great and his loyal dog Gelert.
Legend tells how Llywelyn came home to discover his infant gone and Gelert bloodied around the muzzle.
Believing Gelert had harmed his child, Llywelyn slayed his faithful companion. Only moments later, he heard his child’s cry and found them safe and sound, next to a slain wolf that Gelert had bravely defended the child from.
Overcome with grief and regret for killing his faithful dog, Llywelyn held a grand funeral for Gelert in the village.
A tomb was built for the heroic dog by a local landlord in the 18th century, with a walk and trail offering a splendid way to discover the village and its surrounding hills.
Once you’ve returned, the quaint yet welcoming village offers plenty of activities to keep you entertained, whether it’s snuggling up in one of the hotels, B&Bs, or guesthouses or spending the afternoon by a fire at a local pub.
Despite its legendary status, Beddgelert remains a small hamlet, home to fewer than 500 residents, but it is brimming with warmth and charm.
Its cobbled streets, medieval stone cottages, and pubs transport you back to a storybook setting, making it an ideal autumn destination, with Fine Country event naming it as one of the UK’s “prettiest autumn villages”.
For a unique perspective on the village’s history, the nearby Sygun Copper Mine is worth a visit. Copper has been mined in the Snowdon valleys for centuries, with some sources even dating it back to Roman times.
But for a glimpse into its more recent past, Beddgelert is also situated on the historic Welsh Highland Railway, which runs from Caernarfon to Porthmadog.