Hi
I'm planning to see the Caernarfon Castle, then go on to either Beddgelert or Lanberis. I hope to do some hiking from there. I'm not sure which would better. I have no car. I'm also 74 years old and will be alone. I am quite fit and a walker, but - my hike limit distance wise would likely be about 5-6 miles, if it's not too steep or somewhat less up hill.
Thanks
Between Beddgelert and Llanberis are the highest mountains in Wales (Snowdon or Y Wyddfa as the Welsh call it). It is no gentle stroll
and some routes are quite tough going. Having said that, lots of people make the hike up from Llanberis which roughly follows the route of the Snowdon Mountain Railway and is probably the least steep of the routes although it starts from a low base.
My prerence would be Beddgelert as the walking round there is a lot gentler than the mountains round Snowdonia (and the walking is also a lot quieter as all he world and his wife, children and dog head to Snowdon, or Y Wyddfa as we are now all expected to call it..)
This was a walk we really enjoyed from Beddgelert and would fit your distance. Beginning from Beddgelert it takes you through the stunning Aberglaslyn Pass to Nantmor and then up Cwm Buchan to Lyn Dinas and then back to Beddgelert. (the map is here.)
If you want an easier route, then follow the Cambrian Way out of Beddgelert to Llyn Dinas, do a circular walk around the lake and then return to Beddgelert. Have a look here with the map here.
Of course there is the even shorter stroll to Gelert's Grave - check it out here.
And finally the ice cream shop in Beddgelert comes highly recommended!
Thanks - helpful info for sure!