Snowdon summit enveloped in mist, with the iconic marker stone atop frost-covered rocks and a blanket of snow underfoot, capturing the quiet solitude of a winter ascent.

Stars, Summits, and Snowdon: A Hiking Journey in Wales

An Unforgettable Welsh Adventure: Camping and Hiking at Snowdon Base Camp

The call of the wild is something that just can’t be ignored, especially for those of us who love a bit of adventure mixed with the beauty of nature. Our latest journey took us into the heart of Wales, with Snowdon Base Camp serving as our home base for a trip we won’t soon forget. Nestled not far from the picturesque town of Rhyd-Ddu, this campsite quickly became more than just a place to stay; it was the centre of our exploration through the stunning Welsh countryside.

Serene Welsh landscape featuring a babbling brook in the foreground, with rolling green fields leading up to the snow-capped peaks of Snowdon in the distance under a dynamic sky.

Getting Settled and Feeling Welcome

As soon as we arrived, we headed over to the Cwellyn Arms to get checked in. It’s a cosy spot with a friendly vibe, perfect for kicking off our camping adventure. The staff there were super helpful, giving us tips on the best place to pitch our tent to avoid getting soggy from recent rains. They recommended a spot that was a short walk from the onsite lake and was protected from the wind by the toilet and shower block. We decided to pass on eating at the pub that night but did grab some firewood for what promised to be a chilly evening under the stars. It turned out we were the only ones bold or crazy enough to camp out in the cold, which made for a surprisingly peaceful experience.

Morning sun breaking through the clouds over a peaceful campsite with a 'Night Cat' branded tent pitched on the lush grass, Snowdon's slopes faintly visible in the background.

Shortly after pitching we were greeted by the very friendly and welcoming owner of the campsite who had come down to see us on his bike. He made sure we had everything that we needed and gave us some information on the local area and hikes. We mentioned that we were planning to take the route up Snowdon via the Rhyd Ddu path and down the Ranger Path the next day. He gave us some helpful tips and directions on how to avoid walking too far on the roads and was on his way. 

Our Trusty Gear

For our stay, we chose a Vango Alpha 300 tent and brought along a new Night Cat tent, which has the potential to become another of their products for us to stock. The unpredictable Welsh weather, ranging from a chilly -1 to a brisk 5 degrees Celsius, was the perfect test for the tents. Our setup was cosy, with a spot carved out for storage, playing cards, and dining away from the elements. Both tents held up brilliantly, proving they were more than up to the challenge of the Welsh climate.


We pitched up, cooked ourselves some dinner on our Campingaz stove and had a few drinks. On our last visit to Wales a few months ago, we intended to do a night time hike and to try and catch a glimpse of some cloud inversion. Unfortunately due to bad weather, we decided not to and instead had attempted the Rhyd Ddu path. We took a right at the fork to go up to the peak via Allt Maenderyn but we had to turn back as the combination of rain and very strong winds made it too dangerous to continue.


This time, although much colder, it seemed that we had some clearer weather on our side. As we were watched the camp fire burn and enjoyed a hot drink, we made the spontaneous decision that now might be a good time to reattempt a night hike. We promptly went to bed and set our alarms for 3am.

Starry night sky glimpsed above a dark silhouette of forested hills, with wisps of clouds illuminated by the moon’s soft glow, evoking the tranquility of a night in the Welsh wilderness.

A Night Hike to Remember

The absolute highlight of our trip was this last minute decision to hike up to the peak of Snowdon at night, hoping to catch the sunrise from the highest point in Wales. Despite the weather not playing ball for the sunrise we’d imagined, the hike itself was incredibly special. Lit by the TS Waterproof Headtorches and both the HikeWare 10,000 Lumen Torch and its smaller cousin the 2,000 Lumen Pocket Flashlight, we navigated the path occasionally catching the gleaming eyes of sheep along the way.
 
The path took on a magical quality as we ascended, with a light dusting of snow underfoot. The peacefulness of the night, combined with the unique challenge of the climb, offered us a perspective of Snowdon that felt both intimate and grand.

Hiker clad in a bright orange waterproof bag cover and a black waterproof coat, with a frost-covered 'LED HEADLIGHT' beanie, gazing into the misty, snow-covered ascent of Snowdon.Snowdon Mountain Railway tracks ascending into the mist, with a dusting of snow on the ground, merging the man-made with the wild, ethereal beauty of the Welsh landscape.

Approaching the summit, we faced cooler winds and a smattering of snow, a stark reminder of the mountain’s dynamic nature. As we reached the frozen peak of the mountain, we took a quick photo and decided to take shelter from the winds by the closed shutter to the train station that runs in warmer months.

Frosty ascent to Snowdon's peak, with a labyrinth of icy rocks leading to the mountain's summit, shrouded in a veil of dense mist.

We took off our gloves to have a bite to eat but quickly decided to head back to camp as our hands were unbearably cold, even when sheltered. By this point most of our clothing had a thin layer of ice on it. As we headed back down and out of the cloud, we were met with incredible views and what was looking to be a beautiful day of sunshine.

Warm Welcomes and Delicious Bites

The hospitality we experienced, particularly from the campsite's owner, added a layer of warmth to our adventure. When we got back from our hike, we found a map of our initial route tucked under a log by our fire pit. This was a pleasant surprise, a gesture that really showed the care and connection possible even in brief encounters.

After taking a quick shower at the on site shower block, which are probably some of the best camping facilities we have used, we decided to take a short drive down to the Cwellyn Arms for some well deserved dinner.

Our meal at the Cwellyn Arms was another highlight, we started with an outstanding prawn starter, followed by a perfectly cooked burger. For dessert the baked Snowdon dessert, a meringue delight which was the perfect sweet finish. 
If anyone is passing by this area on their travels, this is the place to eat!

Gourmet open sandwich with succulent prawns, a dollop of creamy sauce, and fresh salad on a toasted bread, served on a sleek black plate with a restaurant's menu in the background.Juicy cheeseburger with melted cheese and fresh lettuce on a sesame seed bun, accompanied by a side of crispy fries in a mini fryer basket, served with ketchup on a wooden board.Decadent baked Snowdon dessert on a white plate, featuring golden-brown meringue peaks dusted with powdered sugar, with a warm, ambient lighting setting the scene for a sweet indulgence.

Beyond the Peak

Our second day's journey unexpectedly evolved from a simple morning walk into an extensive six-hour exploration around Mynydd Mawr and its captivating valleys. What began as a modest plan unfurled into an adventure of grander scale, vividly reminding us of the unpredictable nature of hiking. The support from our HikeWare Aluminium Hiking Poles made such a difference given the fatigue from the previous day. We also took the 70L Night Cat Backpack as it provided plenty of space for us to share one bag for the day.

Hiker donning a 'Night Cat' rucksack, poised for adventure, against the verdant backdrop of a woodland trail, epitomising the essence of outdoor exploration.

Reflecting on it, this hike stands out as one of my most memorable, not for its difficulty but for the sheer beauty of the experience. The perfect weather conditions and the breath taking views that accompanied our trek made every step worthwhile. As dusk approached, casting a deep blue veil over the sky, the sight of Snowdon's snow-capped peak in the distance was a moment of pure awe. This experience underscored the importance of being well-prepared. Setting off for what seemed like a brief hike, we were reminded of the wisdom in carrying extra food and water, and importantly, a reliable torch. Navigating back through the woods as evening fell would have been a daunting task without our trusty HikeWare Flashlight, especially as we manoeuvred through thick mud and over obstacles like fallen trees. The journey offered a thrilling contrast to our daytime walk, culminating in the stunning sight of the moon rising over Snowdon as we returned to camp.

Twilight over a Welsh valley, with the silhouettes of pine trees framing the view of Snowdon's snow-dusted summit under a deep blue sky.Dawn breaking over the Snowdon range, with the first light piercing the sky above the silhouette of the mountain, heralding a day of adventure in the Welsh countryside.

Arriving back to find our tent enveloped in frost, we quickly freshened up before returning to the pub for another splendid meal. Ending our night beside a warming campfire, reflecting on our adventures, was the perfect close to an incredible day. With our departure looming the next morning, we savoured these final moments of wilderness camaraderie.

Reflecting on the Adventure

Looking back, the trip reminded us of the stunning natural beauty of Wales, the challenge and thrill of its peaks, and the undeniable warmth of its people. Snowdon Base Camp was the perfect starting point for our adventures, offering a mix of peaceful solitude and exciting exploration. For anyone thinking of taking a similar trip, remember that the right gear isn’t just about comfort—it’s about making the most of your experience.

A Heartfelt Thanks

We’re immensely grateful to the owner of Snowdon Base Camp and the team at the Cwellyn Arms for their hospitality. Their warmth and kindness truly captured the spirit of Wales, making our stay memorable and leaving us with a longing to return. If anyone is looking for somewhere in the area to stay for the night, they not only offer standard camping pitches that we used, but they also cater for those with vans or require electric hook ups. With a beautiful lake ideal for wild swimming and incredible facilities, Snowdon Base Camp serves as a perfect place for camping and hiking.

Cwellyn Arms (snowdoninn.co.uk)

Hiker pausing to admire the sunset over the rolling hills of Wales, trekking poles in hand, with the warm glow of the sun casting long shadows on the rugged trail.
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