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Nant Ffrancon Valley Walk
Join me for a free Wellness Walk, through the forest to the sheepfold and hut circles of Cefn yr Orsedd, overlooking the stunning Nant Ffrancon Valley, crossing Afon Ogwen and picking up the Eryri Slate Trail into Bethesda. At the end of the walk, there will be an optional swim in the river.
What to expect - The Terrain & Activities
- No Paddle Sport Available
- Swimming Available
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The distance is 12km (7.5 miles) with a total of 450m elevation gain – expect uphill at the start and end of the walk. Four to five hours of walking plus time for lunch, and swimming/dipping in the river, which occurs at the end of the walk.
mixed weather
We’re expecting mixed weather on this walk – so make sure you bring waterproofs AND an extra warm layer!
Walk Leader - Rachael H.
Rachael is a qualified Lowland Leader & she’s also qualified in First Aid for Mental Health & Outdoor First Aid – so you know she’ll keep you safe and make your Wellness Walk a safe and supportive space.
Rachael is based in beautiful North Wales – she’s also a qualified Open Water Lifeguard so you’ll often find her combining two passions and heading out for a walk & a swim 🙂
Rachael’s favourite local walk is from Ogwen Cottage up to Llyn Idwal as the views are stunning and it’s super accessible. Her favourite walk anywhere is just down the road from Idwal – an exciting wander up Tryfan – from where you can see three different lakes and far into the surrounding hills and countryside.
Living in North Wales Rachael’s top tip is to invest in the best waterproofs you can afford – then you can always go for a walk – even in liquid sunshine.
Kit List
- Walking poles really recommended!
- Sturdy footwear
- Dogs MUST be well behaved- this means good recall & good around people, other dogs & livestock.
- Doggie essentials! (e.g. lead, harness)
- Swim kit & towel (if that's your thing)
- We recommend wet shoes
- Waterproofs
- Spare warm layer
- Hat & Gloves
- We recommend layers!
- Packed lunch required
MEETING PLACE - Ogwen Bank Caravan and Lodge Park Layby on the A5
There is a decent sized layby on the A5 by the sign for Ogwen Bank Caravan and Lodge Park. Park there and we will meet under the sign. The T10 bus also stops about 10 minutes walk away, further up the A5. If parking is limited there, continue into Bethesda and take the next left, there is parking by the bridge. Walk up for 10 minutes to the caravan park sign.
Donations
All of our walks are provided free of charge thanks to our funders, generous donations and our passionate volunteers. If you’re interested in supporting wellness walks by volunteering or donating please follow the links below. We look forward to walking with you!
Facilities
- No Cafe or Pub Available
- No Toilets Available
- No Public Transport Available
- No Transport Provided
- Dogs Allowed
There are no public toilets on this walk. The walk is suitable for dogs. Please note there are no toilets or changing areas for the swim. There is a Tesco with costa machine and a cafe in Bethesda. The walk is accessible by the T10 bus from Bangor, which stops 10 minutes walk away from the start point, further up the A5.
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Informed Consent - we want you to know what risk is involved
While we take every precaution to ensure your safety on our walks (physically, psychologically and emotionally), all outdoor activities involve an inherent and unavoidable risk of an accident occurring that could lead to personal injury. All of our Walk Leaders are qualified in First Aid and carry emergency equipment to deal with emergencies. Walk Leaders are also trained to dynamically alter the route or plan for the day based on numerous potential factors - any decision to do so is fully authorised and expected by Wellness Walks. All participants should take an active role in minimising risks - so if you have a concern please speak up, if you feel unwell or unable to continue tell the leader.
Lowland Walks
These walks will follow paths, trails and lanes that are clearly visible on both the ground and the map (with the exception of very minor alterations). The risk on these walks is low - but traffic, waterways and other hazards may still be encountered.
Participants are required to read the walk description and kit list and may not be allowed to take part on the walk if they do not have suitable clothing or footwear.
Open Water Swimming
To take part in swimming activities participants must be able to swim 25m unaided in cold water. Open water swimming by its very nature poses risks beyond those found in a swimming pool and by booking a place on this session you confirm you are aware of these. We strongly recommend that participants follow the kit list instructions (if you choose not to wear a wetsuit you do enter the water at your own risk) and you must listen to the safety briefing and at all times obey the instructions and limits set by the activity leader.