Rhyd Ddu Travel Guide
Read our comprehensive travel guide for Rhyd Ddu, including the best things to do, places to stay, and where to eat. Learn more about the culture and customs of this North Wales village.
- Introduction to Rhyd Ddu
- List of Places to Visit in Rhyd Ddu
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Rhyd Ddu
- Best Things to Do in Rhyd Ddu: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Rhyd Ddu
- Food and Drink Scene of Rhyd Ddu
- Where to Stay in Rhyd Ddu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Rhyd Ddu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Rhyd Ddu
- Best Time to Visit Rhyd Ddu
- Do’s and Don’ts of Rhyd Ddu
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Rhyd Ddu: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Rhyd Ddu
- Where to Go Next from Rhyd Ddu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Rhyd Ddu
Rhyd Ddu is a small village located in the heart of Snowdonia National Park in Gwynedd, North Wales. It sits at the foot of Yr Aran and Snowdon, two of the highest peaks in Wales. It is a popular starting point for hikers and climbers, but there is plenty to do in the village for those who are less outdoor-inclined. Here’s our comprehensive guide to Rhyd Ddu.
List of Places to Visit in Rhyd Ddu
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Welsh Highland Heritage Railway: Take a steam train ride on a narrow gauge railway and learn about the area’s railway history.
- Sygun Copper Mine: Explore the old copper mine and learn about the history of mining in the area.
- Gelert’s Grave: Visit the grave of the legendary dog Gelert, who according to legend saved a child from a wolf attack and was then mistakenly killed by his owner.
Natural Attractions of Rhyd Ddu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Snowdon: Hike to the summit of Wales’ highest mountain for stunning views.
- Yr Aran: Hike to the summit of Yr Aran for an easier but still beautiful alternative to Snowdon.
- Beddgelert Forest: Take a peaceful walk through the forest, where you may spot red squirrels or otters.
- Llyn Cwellyn: Enjoy a picnic by the lake or take a dip in the water on a hot summer’s day.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Rhyd Ddu
- Snowdon Ranger Path: A less crowded route up Snowdon from the south.
- Rhyd Ddu Path: A quieter route up Snowdon from the west.
- Nantlle Ridge: A challenging but rewarding hike with stunning views.
- Mynydd Mawr: A quieter alternative to Snowdon with similar views.
Best Things to Do in Rhyd Ddu: Activities and Tours
- Zip World Slate Caverns: Zip-line through old slate mines or try out their underground trampolines.
- Canyoning: Descend waterfalls and jump into rock pools with an experienced guide.
- Horse Riding: Explore the area on horseback with one of the local stables.
- Welsh Culture Experience: Learn about Welsh culture and language with a local guide.
Week-Long Itinerary for Rhyd Ddu
Day 1: Arrive in Rhyd Ddu, explore the village and have lunch at Cwellyn Arms.
Day 2: Hike Snowdon via the Rhyd Ddu Path, have lunch at the summit cafe.
Day 3: Take a relaxing walk through Beddgelert Forest, have lunch at the Moel Siabod Cafe.
Day 4: Explore the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway and Gelert’s Grave, have lunch at the Royal Goat Hotel.
Day 5: Try out canyoning or horse riding, have lunch at Tŷ Mawr Tea Rooms.
Day 6: Hike the Nantlle Ridge, have lunch at Caffi Gwynant.
Day 7: Relax by Llyn Cwellyn, have lunch at Y Sgwar.
Food and Drink Scene of Rhyd Ddu
Must-Try Dishes
- Welsh Rarebit: Traditional Welsh dish consisting of hot melted cheese sauce and toast.
- Cawl: Welsh soup made with meat (usually lamb or beef), root vegetables, and barley.
- Bara Brith: Traditional Welsh fruit cake made with tea-soaked dried fruit.
Local Beverages
- Welsh Beer: Try a locally brewed Welsh beer, such as the Purple Moose Brewery’s “Madog’s Ale”.
- Welsh Whisky: Whisky lovers can try Penderyn Welsh Whisky, made in a single distillery in the Brecon Beacons.
Where to Stay in Rhyd Ddu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Cwellyn Arms: A traditional pub with cozy rooms.
- Y Pengwern: A lovely guesthouse with a great breakfast.
- Plas Gwynant: A hostel with stunning views of the mountains.
What to Buy in Rhyd Ddu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Slate Products: Pick up a slate cheese board or coaster to remind you of your trip.
- Welsh Language Materials: Learn Welsh with a book or CD from the local bookshop.
- Welsh Wool: Take home a Welsh wool blanket or scarf.
Local Culture and Customs of Rhyd Ddu
- Welsh Language: Many locals speak Welsh as their first language. You can try out a few Welsh phrases while you’re here.
- Rugby: Rugby is a national obsession in Wales. Watch a game with the locals at the pub.
- Eisteddfod: The Eisteddfod is a Welsh cultural festival that takes place in different locations each year. Check to see if there are any events taking place during your visit.
Best Time to Visit Rhyd Ddu
The best time to visit Rhyd Ddu is between April and September, when the weather is warmest and driest. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so be prepared for crowds. If you prefer quieter and cooler weather, visit in the off-season from October to March.
Do’s and Don’ts of Rhyd Ddu
Do:
- Try some Welsh language phrases.
- Respect the natural environment, and follow the countryside code.
- Try the local food and drink.
Don’t:
- Leave litter in the countryside.
- Disturb wildlife.
- Ignore warning signs and safety instructions.
Safety and Health
Safety in Rhyd Ddu
- Be prepared for the weather, and bring appropriate clothing and footwear.
- Stick to marked paths while hiking.
- Check weather conditions before attempting a hike or outdoor activity.
Health in Rhyd Ddu
- If you have any existing medical conditions, make sure to bring your medications with you.
- Be aware of tick bites when hiking in the countryside.
- Check for any travel vaccinations needed before your visit.
Getting to Rhyd Ddu: Transportation Options and Logistics
Rhyd Ddu is easily accessible by train, bus, or car. The nearest train station is located in nearby Caernarfon, which is also serviced by buses. Visitors arriving by car can use the A4085, and there is ample parking available in the village.
Airports Near Rhyd Ddu
- Manchester Airport (MAN): Approx. 125 miles
- Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL): Approx. 103 miles
Bus Stations Near Rhyd Ddu
- Caernarfon Bus Station: Approx. 9 miles
- Bangor Bus Station: Approx. 17 miles
Other Options
- Welsh Highland Railway: Serviced by trains from Caernarfon Railway Station.
- Taxis: Can be arranged from nearby towns and villages.
How to Get Around in Rhyd Ddu
The best way to get around Rhyd Ddu is on foot, particularly for hiking and walking. Taxis and car rentals are also available if you need to go further afield.
Where to Go Next from Rhyd Ddu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Portmeirion: Architecturally stunning village located on the coast.
- Caernarfon: Historical town famous for its castle.
- Betws-y-Coed: Beautiful village located in the heart of Snowdonia with plenty of outdoor activities and local shops.
- Llechwedd Slate Caverns: Take a tour of the old slate mines and learn about the history of mining in the area.
Conclusion
Rhyd Ddu is a beautiful and historic village located in the heart of Snowdonia National Park. With plenty of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and delicious local food and drink, it’s an excellent destination for anyone looking to get away from it all and experience the best of North Wales.
