Yr Wyddfa
Yr Wyddfa, known in English as Snowdon, is the highest mountain in Wales and the highest point in the British Isles, standing at 1,085 meters (3,560 feet) above sea level. Located in Snowdonia National Park, this mountain has been a focal point for walkers, climbers, and tourists for centuries.
Geographical Features
- Location: Snowdon is part of the Snowdonia Range in Gwynedd, northwest Wales.
- Summit: The summit of Snowdon, known as Yr Wyddfa, offers panoramic views over much of Wales, parts of England, and even to Ireland on clear days.
- Paths: There are six main paths to the summit, each offering different levels of difficulty and scenery:
- Llanberis Path - the longest but easiest route.
- Pyg Track - starts near Pen-y-Pass.
- Miners' Track - follows an old miners' route with historical significance.
- Rhyd Ddu Path - provides a quieter approach.
- Watkin Path - includes a significant ascent and views of waterfalls.
- Snowdon Ranger Path - offers a less frequented route from the east.
History
- Legend: According to Welsh mythology, Gwyn ap Nudd, the ruler of the Annwn (the Otherworld), was imprisoned in a cave beneath Yr Wyddfa.
- Victorian Era: In the 19th century, Snowdon became a popular destination for the burgeoning mountaineering movement. The first recorded ascent was in 1639, but it was in the Victorian era that the mountain saw a surge in visitors, leading to the construction of the Snowdon Mountain Railway in 1896.
- Language: The Welsh name 'Yr Wyddfa' translates as 'the tumulus' or 'the barrow', referring to the shape of the summit.
Modern Day
- Tourism: Snowdon is a major tourist attraction, with the Snowdon Summit Cafe and visitor center at the top, accessible via the railway or by foot.
- Conservation: The area is protected as part of Snowdonia National Park, with efforts to preserve its natural beauty and ecological diversity.
External Links:
Related Topics: