Every peak in Wales higher than 3000ft lies within three out of the nine mountain ranges set within the Snowdonia National Park. There is a well-known fell running challenge to conquer all 14 peaks (or 15 if you include Carnedd Gwenllian) in 24 hours, known as the 'Welsh 3000'. It is a considerable feat of endurance requiring remarkable stamina, strength and concentration. The record, set in 2019, is 4 hours 10 minutes and 48 seconds. The two walks on this tour comprise one third of those peaks which have to be crossed to complete the challenge.
This short break offers a couple of days of high-level walking and some of the most challenging walking in our programme. We will experience the wide expanse of the Carneddau Range with wonderful views from the broad ridge along which we ascend, peak by peak, to its high point, Carnedd Llewellyn, at 1064m. On a clear day, you'll experience spectacular views to the North Coast and Anglesey and also over to the Glyder range and to Snowdon.
We also walk the lesser known North Glyder Ridge to Mynydd Perfedd with views to the Atlantic Slabs, as well as walking through Cwm Idwal and Idwal Slabs, then up through the Devil's Kitchen. This walk will summit Y Garn at 947m and Elidir Fawr at 923m.
You will note that we do not intend to ascend Snowdon on this tour but instead have chosen our favourite walks in this area. Whilst we appreciate that Snowdon is the highest summit in the UK, outside the Scottish Highlands, it is as much of a tourist destination as it is a peak to be bagged, and is easily accessible to casual day trippers. In the summer months, it is incredibly popular and will be very busy even in poor weather conditions. The popularity of this walk and the crowded trails could detract considerably from your enjoyment, hence, why we have selected two less well travelled routes, favoured only by serious walkers, for you to enjoy on this short break.
Due to the high grade of the walks, plus the occasional scrambling requirement, there are two qualified Mountain Leaders allocated as tour leaders. The group size will be small for safety and limited to just 14 plus our two Mountain Leaders.