The Adventure
Over three unforgettable days, journey through two of Eryri’s most iconic mountain landscapes — the mighty Cadair Idris and the remote Rhinogau. This is an expedition-style adventure that rewards determination and curiosity in equal measure: dramatic ridgelines, sea views from wild camps, and the kind of rugged terrain that captures what “wild Wales” is all about. Along the way, you’ll learn wild camping skills, navigation techniques, and the art of moving efficiently through serious mountain country — all while guided by local experts who know these hills like home.
Who Is It For
This trip is perfect for adventurous hikers eager to push themselves through Wales’ most dramatic and lesser-trodden mountains. You’ll need a good level of fitness and an appetite for long, rewarding days in wild terrain — but no technical mountaineering experience is required. Whether you’re building your confidence in multi-day hiking or seeking a proper mountain challenge, this journey offers isolation, achievement, and the satisfaction of adventure done right.
Trip Itinerary
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Meet your group at Dol Idris Car Park for kit checks and introductions at 09:00, before setting off on the legendary staircase climb to Penygadair, where the amphitheatre-like cliffs of Cadair Idris open before you. From almost sea level to over 890m, this is an ascent that earns its summit. After lunch with panoramic views across Snowdonia and Cardigan Bay, you’ll continue west toward the coast, finding a quiet wild camp nestled high on the shoulder of the massif. If the skies are clear, expect a sunset to remember — one of the finest in Wales.
Distance: ~15km | Ascent: 1,000m
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After breakfast overlooking the sea, descend gently toward Barmouth, where there’s time to restock on supplies — or take a refreshing dip in the bay. Then begins your crossing of the Rhinogau, following stretches of the Cambrian Way through tough, rocky terrain that’s as rewarding as it is remote. Expect sweeping views towards the Mawddach Estuary and the Irish Sea as you climb steadily into one of the quietest corners of Wales. Camp high near a stream — the perfect spot to wash off the day’s dust and enjoy a peaceful evening.
Distance: ~15km | Ascent: 1,000m
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An early start sees you traverse the heart of the Rhinogs — a place of ancient rock, solitude, and challenge. You’ll pick your way across the rugged tops of Rhinog Fach and Rhinog Fawr, a section famed for its wild energy and remoteness. With vistas sweeping out to Coed y Brenin Forest and Tremadog Bay, this is an exhilarating finish to the journey. By afternoon, descend toward Trawsfynydd Lake, marking the end of your crossing and a moment to reflect on an adventure few ever experience.
Distance: ~15km | Ascent: 1,000m
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The trip starts at Dol Idris Car Park (SH 73210 11589) near Cadair Idris, and finishes at Trawsfynydd Lake Car Park (SH 70372 34782).
By train: The nearest mainline station is Machynlleth, with regular services from Birmingham, Shrewsbury, and Aberystwyth. From there, local buses and taxis can reach Dol Idris in under 30 minutes.
By car: Dol Idris is easy to find, just off the A487 near Dolgellau, with parking available at the car park. The endpoint at Trawsfynydd Lake is approximately 40 minutes north by road.
By air: The nearest airports are Manchester and Liverpool, both around 2.5 hours’ drive. Train and bus connections via Machynlleth make onward travel straightforward.
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Group size: Small groups of no more than six, keeping things friendly and personal.
Guides: Experienced, trusted guides who know Eryri’s landscapes and weather patterns inside out.
Fitness: Expect full days on the move, often over steep or rocky terrain. You’ll need good general fitness and the ability to carry your own pack for sustained hikes.
Flexibility: Routes and camps may vary depending on weather and water availability, ensuring safety, comfort, and the best possible experience.
Equipment: A full wild camping kit including tent, stove, sleeping bag, and mat are included in the price but you will need full hiking gear and waterproof kit. Lightweight gear is recommended.
For more information, contact us and we will help.
Why Book with the GBAC?
Adventure, Authentically Delivered
Every journey with GBAC is led by passionate outdoor leaders who design their own adventures—trips as unique and inspiring as the guides themselves. Expect one-of-a-kind experiences that dive deeper, excite the senses, and promise memories no ordinary itinerary can match.
The UK’s Most Trusted Guide Network
Join the adventure community built by outdoor lovers, for outdoor lovers. With one of the largest guide networks in the UK, there’s always support, if a guide is unwell, your trip goes ahead with someone just as qualified and enthusiastic.
Create Unforgettable Memories
Our trips are crafted to leave a lasting mark—whether it’s summiting a new peak, discovering hidden wild places, or simply sharing laughter around the campfire. With GBAC, every adventure becomes a story worth telling, and the moments you share become lifelong memories.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Our guides are handpicked, fully insured, and qualified. Every one of them holds an enhanced DBS check and meets strict GBAC standards, so you can relax knowing your adventure is in safe, expert hands.
Feel-Good Booking, Fair Pay, Real Impact
GBAC guides and outdoor leaders are valued and fairly rewarded. We pay better by taking only a commission—helping expert guides earn more and focus on the experience, not just the job. Every adventure booked helps sustain a thriving, passionate community of outdoor leaders.
Small Groups, Big Adventures
Our trips aren’t crowded. Smaller groups mean a friendlier, more personal atmosphere—letting journeys unfold naturally, stories get shared, and every moment feel memorable.
Ready to create unforgettable memories in the wild? Choose GBAC—where every booking powers a more passionate outdoors, one unique journey at a time
Kit List
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Clothing & footwear
Walking boots (broken in — not fresh out of the box)
Walking poles with snow baskets (recommended, but optional)
4 pairs of socks (3 for walking, 1 spare)
Waterproof jacket & trousers
Gaiters (optional but useful)
Appropriate clothing for a days in the hills
Hat & gloves (even in summer)
Sunglasses & sunhat
Backpack & kit
65L+ backpack, suitable for hillwalking, with a waterproof cover
Sitting pad (optional, but keeps your bum dry)
1.5L of water
Water filter
Food & drink
Sufficient food for 3 full days (inlcude some snacks!)
Safety & essentials
Personal first aid kit (your guide will carry a kit, but bring your own for blisters & small scrapes)
Foil survival blanket (tiny and light)
Whistle
Head torch
Personal medication (your guide will ask you for any relevent medical information prior to your departure)
Miscellaneous
Mobile phone
Debit/credit card
A bit of cash (just in case)
Insect repellent
Don’t worry, your guide will be in touch in advance of your trip, including links to recommended products, so you can get set up as easily (and cheaply!) as possible.
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You’ll need to be fit enough to manage a multi day hike carrying around your kit over undulating terrain. The pace and intensity can vary depending on the group, and we’ll always do our best to accommodate everyone — but an okay level of fitness is essential for this adventure.
About your Guide
John – Qualified Mountain Leader
John’s outdoor journey began in the scouts, where he first found joy in leading others on adventures and helping people connect with wild places. Nearly a decade on, he’s made Britain’s uplands his second home, pairing his teaching background with his passion for the hills to create trips that challenge, inspire, and teach.
Now based near Edinburgh, John is a qualified Mountain Leader and Rock Climbing Instructor. He’s guided countless adventures across the country, bringing infectious enthusiasm and deep expertise to every outing. Whether he’s helping someone bag their first Munro or sharing a quiet moment on a remote summit, John makes sure every day is memorable and everyone leaves having learned something new.
He has a real love for expedition travel, recently completing the challenging Cape Wrath Trail across Scotland. When he’s not leading groups, John is often off climbing in the Lake District, plotting his next multi-day adventure into the wild, or ticking off Munros one by one. With his reassuring presence and knack for making everyone feel welcome outdoors, John ensures every experience is both safe and unforgettable.
Got Questions?
Feel free to contact us with any and all questions. We always aim to reply within 24 hours.
