Lion Quary Spa hotel
If you need to refuel, there’s a Shell petrol station opposite the hotel. From there, we head south on the A5, join the A483 to Llynclys, then turn right at the White Lion Pub onto the A495. Continuing onto the B4391, we cross the Milltir Cerrig Pass, offering a thrilling drive with twisting roads and steep climbs. At Bala, we turn right onto the A494 heading north, then right again onto the A5 for a quick coffee stop.
Rhug Estate Café
Departing the café, we head west on the A5 for 8 miles before turning right onto the B4501, entering the famed Evo Triangle, named after Evo Magazine, which frequently uses the area to test cars due to its blend of sweeping curves, tight turns, and dramatic scenery. Be aware of average speed cameras on both the B4501 and A543. At the Sportsman’s Arms, the northern point of the triangle, we turn left to continue south along the A543, eventually rejoining the A5, which leads us to our lunch stop.
Betws-y-Coed – Lunch stop
Arriving at approximately 12:30 PM, we’ll enjoy a lunch break in Betws-y-Coed, a picturesque village nestled in the heart of Snowdonia. With a variety of charming cafés, pubs, and restaurants to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Our personal recommendation is Hangin’ Pizza. We plan to depart by 2:00 PM to continue our journey.
Snowdon Loop
We continue our journey west along the A5, turning left onto the A4086 towards Llanberis, marking the start of our Snowdon loop. Taking a right to stay on the A4086, we traverse the stunning Llanberis Pass, a dramatic drive through rugged peaks and sweeping valleys. Passing through Llanberis, we turn left onto the A4244, which leads us back to the A5. Turning right again, we pass the serene waters of Llyn Ogwen before rejoining the A4086 to complete our breathtaking loop.
Continuing along the A498 towards Porthmadog this road treats us to dramatic views of the Snowdon Mountains, few make a quick coffee break at Gaffi Gawynant. There’s a public car park on the left just before the café, or a layby available just after it.
Coffee Stop- Caffi Gwynant
A cozy Welsh café with exceptional coffee nestled in the heart of Snowdonia.
After our coffees, we continue along the south on the A 498 and left on to the A4085 to Porthmadog. Once on the Hight street, we take a left signed Cwrs Golf course and continue to our beach stop.
Black Rock Sands beach
A unique drive on the beach offers vast open spaces and firm sand—ideal for creating unforgettable photo opportunities. After enjoying this experience, we head back to Porthmadog and travel north onto the A498. Continuing onto the A4085 towards Caernarfon, we take a right at the roundabout just before entering Caernarfon, then follow the route onto the A487.
For convenience, we recommend refuelling at the Tesco petrol station in Bangor. Once ready, we embark on a scenic coastal drive along the North Wales Expressway, heading towards Conwy. Taking exit 19, we turn south onto the A470, leading us to our rest stop for the night. An incredible end to a thrilling day!
IROXA Hotel
Time to relax, enjoy, and get social. Dinner is booked from 19:30 where you will have a choice of 3-courses in a private dinning setting.
IROXA Hotel
After breakfast, we’ll gather in the lobby at 08:45am, departing promptly at 09:00 to begin day two. Leaving the hotel, we head south along the A470 and traverse the picturesque Crema Pass. At the end of the pass, we take a right at the roundabout onto the A496, following the route to reconnect with the B4391, a brisk and flowing stretch of road. This leads us onto the A4212, guiding us to our first stop of the day.
Bala Lake
The parking area by the lake features a quaint café, essential facilities, and a perfect chance to capture some shoreline photos. Departing from the lake, we continue south on the A494, merge onto the A470, and take a left onto the A493. Here, we make a brief stop to cross the historic toll bridge, adding a charming touch to the journey.
Penmaenpool Toll Bridge
The Penmaenpool Toll Bridge, a historic grade-listed wooden structure, gracefully spans the scenic Mawddach Estuary. Our photographer will be stationed here, ready to capture stunning shots of your drive across this iconic landmark. Once over the bridge, we Loop back to the A493, following the charming coastal route to our lunch stop in Aberdyfi.
Lunch in Aberdyfi
A quaint Welsh seaside village boasts a charming harbour, golden sandy beaches, and breathtaking views of Snowdonia National Park. With several inviting lunch spots to explore, I personally suggest indulging in the local fish & chip shop for a quintessential coastal treat.
Departing Aberdyfi
After our lunch stop, we head east on the A493 towards Machynlleth. From there, we take the Mountain Road, renowned for its thrilling twists, steep gradients, and stunning Cambrian Mountain vistas. At the end of the route, we turn right onto the B4518, leading us to the picturesque Clywedog Reservoir.
Clywedog Reservoir Viewpoint
We take a moment to stretch our legs and admire the breathtaking views over Clywedog Reservoir. Moving on, we descend alongside the reservoir to Llanidloes. From there, we head south on the A470, turning right at the roundabout onto the A44 towards Ponterwyd. Finally, a left onto the A4120 takes us to Devil’s Bridge.
Elan Valley via Devils Bridge
If needed, we recommend a quick stop at Woodlands Café (SY23 3JW) just before reaching Devil’s Bridge—perfect for a coffee break or use of the facilities. After crossing Devil’s Bridge, watch for the sharp left turn onto the B4574. This route takes you through breathtaking scenery, past scenic valleys and reservoirs, and on to the stunning dams and lakes of Elan Valley, ending at the Visitor Centre. Be mindful of wandering sheep along the way.
Our journey concludes at the Elan Valley Visitor Centre at around 4:00 PM. Please return all radios to James before we bid farewell—until the next adventure!
RouteGT, The Welsh Route is a Navigational Challenge, it is NOT Race or Timed Event in any way. Entrances must drive a route of their own choice based on the suggestions provided.
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