Snowdonia Coast, Crimea Pass and Bala Grand Loop

Link the Mawddach and Meirionnydd coast roads with the Ffestiniog uplands and the A4212 towards Bala. This southern Eryri circuit combines coast, reservoirs and mountain-country roads without duplicating the Llanberis pass loop.

Driving roads near Dolgellau. Nearby visits are optional. · 105 miles · 181 minutes estimated driving · Circular

A498 towards Prenteg

Photo: @ Mat Fascione / Geograph

Highlights along the way

Mawddach Estuary

The coast-road setting changes around the estuary near Dolgellau and Barmouth.

Crimea Pass

The A470 crosses the Ffestiniog uplands between the Betws-y-Coed and Blaenau sides.

Llyn Celyn

The A4212 crosses reservoir country west of Bala.

Before you set off

This is a longer touring circuit. Check mountain weather and current closures; beach, castle and station visits are optional detours. Check current road closures, vehicle suitability and weather before travel. Driving time excludes stops and live traffic. The route follows through-roads; all visits off the line are independent optional detours.

More drives to explore

Explore the route map