Last spring, I set out on an unforgettable journey to the summit of Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, starting from the village of Llanberis. I wasn’t alone on this adventure—two Argentinian friends, both seasoned hikers from near the Andes, joined me. Their experience with rugged, high-altitude treks added a special energy to the day.
We began the trip early in the morning, driving from Manchester city centre to Llanberis, where the trailhead starts. The Llanberis Path is one of the longest but most gradual routes up Snowdon, making it a popular choice. Our goal: the full round trip of 23 kilometers, from Llanberis to the summit and back down again.
The hike unfolded like a series of postcards. We passed through lush green meadows, dotted with sheep grazing peacefully. The scenery was alive with spring colors—the grass a vibrant green, the wildflowers just starting to bloom, and the hillsides basking in gentle sunlight. As we climbed higher, we encountered blue-hued mountain lakes, perfectly still and reflecting the sky above.
The path grew steeper near the cliffs, where the views became truly breathtaking. Looking across the ridges, the rolling hills of Snowdonia stretched endlessly, each layer a different shade of green. Amid the rugged beauty, we also caught sight of something uniquely charming: the Snowdon Mountain Railway. Watching the little train puffing its way steadily up toward the summit, while we hiked alongside on foot, felt almost surreal—a meeting of old-world engineering and timeless mountain beauty.
Reaching the summit of Snowdon was exhilarating. At 1,085 meters, we were rewarded with panoramic views stretching across the peaks of Snowdonia, toward the Irish Sea, and even glimpses of England and Ireland on the horizon. Standing there with my friends, with the wind sweeping past us, felt like standing on top of the world.
The descent back to Llanberis tested our legs, but the scenery never stopped impressing. By the time we returned to the village, tired but fulfilled, we had covered the full 23 km trek. It was a day filled with nature’s best—rolling meadows, sparkling lakes, flocks of sheep, dramatic cliffs, and the unbeatable beauty of Snowdonia’s landscapes.
This hike wasn’t just a physical challenge; it was a reminder of how adventure connects people. Sharing Snowdonia with friends who grew up near the Andes gave the mountains new meaning—a meeting point between Welsh beauty and South American spirit.