Seven amazing hidden gem walks in North Wales to try this weekend

There are few places in the UK that can rival North Wales when it comes to the great outdoors. From miles of coastline, rugged yet accessible mountain ranges, remote villages and the best beaches around - it has the lot.

It's the go to destination for climbers or for those who just enjoy a walk in the countryside. Regardless of whether you are staying on Anglesey, or in the counties Gwynedd, Conwy, Flintshire, Denbighshire and Wrexham, there is something to offer for all ages and ability.

And with the bank holiday weekend upon us, there is no better time to pack a rucksack, chuck on a pair of boots and get out for a stroll. The worst of Storm Lilian seems to have past and the weather forecast for the weekend is almost as varied as the walking routes available.

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So, be sure to pack some sun cream, shorts a rain jacket and some waterproofs to cover almost every eventuality. Thankfully there is no snow on the forecast, at least for now. Find out what's going on near you by signing up to our What's on Newsletter

There are a whole host of different walks and hikes that can be done in North Wales, some common knowledge, some not as much. All abilities and ages are catered for. Some high level walkers prefer to scramble Yr Wyddfa's mountainside, but if you want a leisurely stroll down a river or countryside, then that too is easily done.

Here we take a look at some of the best walks there are in North Wales according to The National Trust that you might not be aware of. As always, dress accordingly for the weather and terrain - but make sure you have fun and take in the views as well!

Cwm Idwal walk - Gwynedd

This walk offers some of the most dramatic mountainous scenery in the UK at the oldest National Nature Reserve in Wales. The site is world famous for its rock formations, and also the crystal clear waters of Llyn Idwal. It can be found at Ogwen Cottage, Nant Ffrancon, Bethesda, LL57 3LZ.

It takes around three hours to complete, and is a three mile walk.

Tŷ Mawr Wybrnant and Cwm Wybrnant - Conwy

One of the most traditional Welsh landscapes on offer. Its wildlife and habitats are rivalled only by its history, as it is the birthplace of Bishop William Morgan, translator of the bible into Welsh. If you aim for Tŷ Mawr Wybrnant, Penmachno, Betws y Coed, Conwy, LL25 0HU, then you should find all it has to offer.

An easy walk to complete, it should only take an hour and 30 minutes, but that is if you don’t stop to wander occasionally. This walk is also dog friendly.

Nant Gwynant - Gwynedd

Explore the lower slopes of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and the Nant Gwynant valley discovering a landscape steeped in history and rich colours. This walk can be found at Nant Gwynant, Caernarfon, Gwynedd, LL55 4NR.

A moderate walk below the slopes of Snowdon which is dog friendly, it can take you two to three hours to complete the entire 3.8 miles.

Porthdinllaen, Llŷn Peninsula - Gwynedd

A walk that will reward you with sublime views in all directions as you follow it along a splinter of land that's an outstanding wildlife haven. Expect to see plenty of wildlife along this walk that can be found at Morfa Nefyn, Gwynedd.

It has a moderate difficulty for just the short 2.5 miles, and can take between one to two hours.

Ysbyty Ifan and Cwm Eidda - Conwy

On this walking trail you’ll find yourself in the hills on an old drovers' road, taking in wonderful views of Dyffryn Conwy and the Carneddau mountains. Not far from the picturesque village of Betws y Coed, a popular hub for walkers that is the perfect place to wind down after a long walk.

Put aside three to four hours to complete this six mile walk, where your dogs are welcome to join you.

Ty'n y Coed Uchaf and Cwm Eidda - Conwy

Along this trail you’ll take a wander through the history of upland Wales, passing by riversides and open farm land in the remains of an ancient woodland. You can see Snowdon and Moel Siabod on a clear day. This walk is bristling with wildlife and nature, and can be found at Betws-y-Coed, the remarkable town that stands out on it’s own merit.

It is one of the longer walks, so plan for a coffee or tea in Betws when you return from the five mile walk, which could take around four hours to complete.

Moel Famau - Flintshire-Denbighshire border

A walking trail to the top of Moel Famau and the ruins of the Jubilee Tower sets off from the car park. The Jubilee Tower was built in 1810 for the golden jubilee of King George III and the ruins can be seen for miles around.

This trail climbs steeply but steadily through the forest to the Jubilee Tower which sits at the top of Moel Famau. At 554 metres (1,818 feet), Moel Famau is the highest summit in the Clwydian Range and there are views across North Wales and towards North West England from here.

The trail returns through open countryside along the Offa’s Dyke Path National Trail.

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