TOP 5 RIVERS TO EXPLORE IN NORTH WALES
Published on 13 Feb 2018 by Gwion LlwydHere in North Wales our mountains and lakes are known throughout the world but it is the rivers that might be new to many. To give you an idea of what’s on offer, here are the Top 5 Rivers To Explore In North Wales…
AFON GLASLYN
The Glaslyn river flows through the village of Beddgelert, one of the most beautiful villages in Snowdonia. The walk along the river is truly stunning, taking you past Gelerts Grave and into the village itself where you will find traditional craft shops, cafes and of course the famous Glaslyn Ices where they offer some of the best ice-cream in Snowdonia. A mile south of Beddgelert in Nantmor is the Aberglaslyn Pass, a narrow gorge in the river known for its outstanding beauty.
AFON TYWERWYN
The National Whitewater Centre is based on the River Tywerwyn. As the rapids are damn controlled, you can be ensured of having consistent water flow and rapids throughout the year which is why the centre is heralded as the best place in the UK to do Whitewater rafting. Canoeing, Kayaking are also very popular along here as well as SUP and sailing as the river flows into Llyn Tegid, the largest lake in Wales.
AFON DWYRYD
There is great salmon, brown trout and grayling fishing on the Afon Dwyryd. As well as the numerous riversides you are able to fish from, Llyn Tegid and Llyn Brenin are also recommended. Please remember that licenses are required to fish on the rivers and lakes. As well as fishing, gorge walking and canyoning are also done in this river in Maentwrog, nr Porthmadog. There is great waterfall here too.
AFON CONWY and LUGWY
The Swallow Falls is the largest, continous waterfall in Wales and is certainly a sight to behold. Set in the town of Betws Y Coed, the falls are easy to access and can either be been seen just on their own or as part of a larger walk in and around Gwydir Forest. A little further out on the Afron Conwy is the Fairy Glen; a stunning natural gorge.
AFON ATRO
At the top of the Afon Atro, Llanbedr are the Nantcol waterfalls. Set in the valley, there is a 15ft pool by the main waterfall which you can jump into from the sides. Following down the river are a series of smaller pools; all are beautiful and great for swimming in. As the river goes down the valley, there are some beautiful walks through bluebell woods which during the spring are very beautiful indeed.