The Legendary Trail of Dinas Emrys

The route begins at the Princess of Gwynedd centre at Craflwyn and heads into oak woodland, passing a carved dragon bench and a small waterfall known as Merlin's Pool. After a stile, the path steepens into a zig-zag climb over a rocky outcrop to the top of Dinas Emrys, where the ground levels out among the remains of a square tower and defensive ramparts associated with the ancient princes of Gwynedd. Views open up near the summit toward Llyn Dinas and Nant Gwynant.

The first part is mainly gentle uphill, but the final section is steep and rocky. Surfaces are uneven throughout, with steps, a small bridge and a stile, and sections that can be muddy. There is one tricky rock section close to the top that needs particular care when wet, so boots with good grip are sensible. Elevation samples along the mapped corridor sit roughly between 80 and 120 metres and rise unevenly rather than in one steady pull, which matches the mix of short climbs, dips and the sharper finish. This is a proper hill walk rather than a level woodland stroll.

The lower half is enclosed woodland with streams and the waterfall, so the wider views are saved for the last stretch and the summit itself. The hillfort earthworks and the outlook over Llyn Dinas and the Nant Gwynant valley are the main photographic subjects. The dragon legend attached to the hill is long-standing local story rather than recorded history, and the visible remains are the archaeological part of the site.

Dogs are welcome on leads.

Use the National Trust car park at Craflwyn, Beddgelert, Gwynedd, LL55 4NG, roughly one mile outside Beddgelert on the A498. Toilets and a picnic area are available at Craflwyn, and the walk starts and ends at the same point, so no return transport is needed.