Moelwynion

The Moelwynion are a group of mountains in central Snowdonia, north Wales. They stretch from the north-east of Porthmadog to Moel Siabod, the highest peak. The name comes from two of the largest summits, Moelwyn Mawr and Moelwyn Bach. Moel Siabod reaches 872 metres, while Moelwyn Mawr stands at 770 metres and Moelwyn Bach at 710 metres. The range includes sixteen named summits, each with its own character. Cnicht, known as the ‘Welsh Matterhorn’, has steep, dramatic slopes. The mountains sit within the Snowdonia National Park, offering wild and remote scenery. The Moelwynion are worth the journey for walkers seeking challenge and solitude. Moel Siabod provides a long but rewarding ridge walk with views across the park. Cnicht’s jagged outline draws climbers and photographers alike. The summits of Moelwyn Mawr and Moelwyn Bach offer quieter routes for those who prefer less crowded paths. The range’s name reflects its pale quartzite summits, which catch the light on clear days. From Porthmadog, the mountains rise dramatically above the coastal plain. Their rugged beauty makes them a favourite among experienced hikers. A visitor finds a landscape of sharp ridges, deep cwms and wide views. The path to Moel Siabod follows a long ridge with steep drops on either side. Cnicht’s north face drops into a dramatic corrie, while its summit offers a narrow crest. Moelwyn Mawr and Moelwyn Bach have broad, grassy tops with patches of stone. The lower slopes are covered in heather and bracken, turning purple in late summer. From the summits, Snowdon and the Glyderau can be seen on clear days. The valleys below hold old slate quarries and stone farmsteads, adding to the sense of remoteness.