Winter walks in Wales

Fill your lungs with fresh air and walk off your Christmas excesses on a Welsh winter trail. We’ve got plenty of walks to satisfy your new year’s resolutions; from gentle strolls on the Llŷn Peninsula to the more challenging peaks in Snowdonia. Frost and snow not guaranteed.

Llyn Idwal, with Y Garn capped with snow
Walking trail

Cwm Idwal in Snowdonia 

Enjoy the dramatic mountainous scenery on this challenging walk through ice-sculpted Cwm Idwal - a bowl-shaped hollow filled with the frozen waters of Llyn Idwal. Perfect for a crisp cold day.

Don't forget your thermals
Sunset from the Blue Lagoon
Walking trail

Porthgain to Abereiddi in Pembrokeshire 

One to blow away the cobwebs; a scenic circular route with gorgeous coastal views, wildlife and history. Sunsets at Blue Lagoon look especially striking over the winter months.

Don't forget your camera
View of Porthdinllaen fishing village
Walking trail

Porthdinllaen on the Llŷn Peninsula 

Porthdinllaen is a spectacular spot to enjoy a walk on the coast with magnificent views, fine sandy beaches, interesting rock pools, a chance to watch the comings and goings of local fishermen and the Ty Coch Inn on hand to provide warming refreshments.

Explore this wildlife haven
Fallow deer graze in the deer park as the sun shines through the overlooking trees
Walking trail

Capability Brown walk in Dinefwr Park, Carmarthenshire 

Follow the path that was designed by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown when he visited Dinefwr in 1775. As well as seeing views of the park and house framed by specimen trees, you might catch sight of some of the fallow deer that live here. Good news - our volunteers have been working hard to waterproof the path for winter.

Perfect for a frosty day
Silhouette of visitors against a sunset sky at Rhossili Bay on the Gower Peninsula, South Wales
Walking trail

Rhossili Bay on Gower 

If you love the coast, winter wouldn't be complete without a stroll along one of Wales' best beaches taking in the beautiful views as you go. If you're feeling adventurous and you get the timing right, you could even head out to the tidal island of Worms head.

Hats and scarves at the ready
River Gamlan in Ganllwyd near Dolgellau, Snowdonia
Walking trail

Rhaeadr Ddu near Dolgellau 

Escape the usual crowds and head along the River Gamlan to Rheadr Ddu. This walk comes to life during winter. As rain falls the waterfalls powerfully cascades into a dark pool (giving it the name Black Falls). Along the walk you’ll also see remnants of autumn colour scattered beneath your feet.

Perfect on rainy day
Walkers at Cwar Mawr Quarry in the Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales
Walking trail

Pen y Fan, Brecon Beacons 

If you’re up for a challenge this winter, why not head to the Brecon Beacons? With careful planning, clothing and equipment, and an understanding of possible dangers, Pen y Fan, the highest mountain in South Wales, can be a wonderful and challenging place to enjoy.

Challenge accepted?
View towards the Menai Strait, Gwynedd, North Wales
Walking trail

Menai Strait woodland walk, Gwynedd 

Explore this winter woodland and ancient parkland with views of the house and gardens at Plas Newydd and see the snow-capped hills of Snowdonia. Use the platform as a viewpoint or it’s a great spot for bird watching.

Marvel at the views
The western arm of Bosherton Lake, Pembrokeshire

Bosherston Lily Ponds in Pembrokeshire 

If you’re looking for a short, gentle stroll brimming with wildlife then Bosherston is the one for you. Look out for the goldeneye diving ducks in the lake and if you’re very lucky you’ll see our resident otters. The Boathouse tea-room is on hand every weekend during the winter months to warm you up with food and drink.

Bring your binoculars
Visitor at Henrhyd Falls, Powys, Wales
Walking trail

Henrhyd Falls and Nant Llech walk  

Tucked away on the western edge of the Brecon Beacons is Henrhyd Falls, the highest waterfall in South Wales. You may recognise it as the bat cave in The Dark Night Rises but its home to much more than Batman. The waterfall surrounds itself with a spectacular woodland home to an array of wildlife; keep an eye out for dippers and wagtails.

Admire the falls in full flow