The mountains of North Wales are stark, stunning, captivating, and magnificent. No matter what your reason for visiting, be it hiking, climbing, or simply to marvel at the breathtaking scenery, it will leave an impression that will stay with you forever. The barren grey peaks rise sharply from lush green valleys, fed by the constant trickle of mountain steams leaping over rocky beds to join fast flowing rivers.

Snowdon itself is the highest peak, and the focal point for most visitors. Reaching the summit is not too much of a challenge, as there is a choice of several well-marked paths, or the option of the pretty mountain railway that trundles up and down the mountain constantly.

From the top, on a clear day, panoramic views of the north Wales coast can be had. It's a coast that has a lot to offer. Thirteenth century castles, built as part of Edward I's defensive ring, are still much in evidence, the best being at the walled port of Conwy , and the ancient town of Caernarfon .

Inland, hidden between the peaks, are numerous picturesque villages, waterfalls, twisting mountain railways, and hairpin bended roads. Amongst the most interesting attractions are the Llechwedd Slate Mines, where you can take a half hour trip deep into the mountain, where workers used to dig by hand alongside eerie underground lakes.