Ceunant

Valley in Caernarfonshire

Wales

Ceunant

Winter birches on Nantgwynant The marshy land between the public footpath and Llyn Dinas on its southeast shore is dotted with Downy Birch - the species of birch (of our two natives) better adapted to such wet soils. On a wet day like this when the higher parts of Snowdonia are unattractive to walkers, lower level paths like this one present opportunties to have the trees stand out against the low-contrast background, and close examination shows that every twig is adorned with droplets of water catching the light from the low clouds. — Winter birches on Nantgwynant Credit: Andy Waddington

Ceunant, Caernarfonshire, is a picturesque valley located in the county of Gwynedd, Wales. Situated in the northern part of the country, it is nestled between the magnificent Snowdonia National Park and the town of Caernarfon. The valley is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and rugged mountains that surround it.

Ceunant is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous walking and hiking trails that take visitors through its enchanting landscapes. The valley is home to a variety of wildlife, including rare species such as the peregrine falcon and the otter, making it a haven for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

One of the main attractions in Ceunant is the Ceunant Mawr Waterfall, a spectacular 90-foot high waterfall that cascades down a rocky gorge. The waterfall is a sight to behold, especially after heavy rainfall when the water flow is at its strongest. It is a popular spot for photographers and offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.

The valley also has a rich historical heritage, with traces of ancient settlements and ruins scattered throughout the area. The nearby town of Caernarfon, known for its imposing medieval castle, offers a glimpse into the region's past and provides visitors with an opportunity to explore its history and culture.

Overall, Ceunant, Caernarfonshire, is a hidden gem that showcases the natural beauty and charm of the Welsh countryside. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and historical significance, it is a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature.

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Ceunant Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.025426/-4.0823117 or Grid Reference SH6049. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Winter birches on Nantgwynant

The marshy land between the public footpath and Llyn Dinas on its southeast shore is dotted with Downy Birch - the species of birch (of our two natives) better adapted to such wet soils. On a wet day like this when the higher parts of Snowdonia are unattractive to walkers, lower level paths like this one present opportunties to have the trees stand out against the low-contrast background, and close examination shows that every twig is adorned with droplets of water catching the light from the low clouds.

Andy Waddington

Afon y Cwm

The very generic name for this stream fails to mention that the Cwm in question is Cwm y Bleiddiaid behind the photographer to the NNE. The permissive path which reaches this point starting at a junction on the Watkin path up Snowdon, branches just ahead, with one route crossing to the ruins across the stream whilst the other continues as a substantial track offering the hope (for those who have had about enough of this weather) of a direct descent to the road via Hafod-y-porth. Such hope is in vain, as the permissive path sticks to the CROW Access Land, with fierce deterrent signs guarding against the more direct route, so your destination is Craflwyn, just the same as that of the path over the footbridge.

Andy Waddington

Afon Glaslyn

The view is downstream from the middle of the small road bridge leading to Sygun Copper Mine and Ty-hên about 900m downstream of the river's exit from Llyn Dinas (the usual put-on for paddlers on this section of river). This is the generally flat and easy section of the river before it meets the Afon Colwyn at Beddgelert where it picks up a notch. Those seeking an easy river trip are well-advised to get off before the Aberglaslyn gorge where it picks up rather more than another notch and with enough water to paddle the section seen here (where there isn't enough at the moment despite the miserable weather), is quite a serious undertaking. There are handy signs dotted about at likely access points indicating the whereabouts of gauges (green for levels where paddlers are no threat to the river, red for low levels where paddlers may damage the environment) and suggesting the existence of an illegal attempt to ban navigation of the gorge in summer.

Andy Waddington

Llyn Dinas

North of Beddgelert in the Nant Gwynant Pass, Llyn Dinas is a mountain lake with a footpath around its eastern shore. It is a fairly shallow lake, covering an area of 60 acres.

Eirian Evans

Llyn Dinas

North of Beddgelert in the Nant Gwynant Pass, Llyn Dinas is a mountain lake with a footpath around its eastern shore. It is a fairly shallow lake, covering an area of 60 acres. This is looking north from the footbridge which crosses the River Glaslyn

Eirian Evans