Mount Snowdon Wales. Interesting Information For Visitors
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Destinations.
Mount Snowdon, Wales: A Visitor's Guide
Introduction
Planning a visit to Mount Snowdon in Wales? Here’s everything you need to know about this legendary mountain and its fascinating history.
Snowdon's Legendary Past
In Welsh, Snowdon is known as "Yr Wyddfa," meaning tomb or monument. According to legend, it’s the resting place of Rhita Gawr, an ogre who fashioned cloaks from the beards of kings he vanquished. His reign of terror ended when King Arthur climbed Snowdon and defeated him.
Historical Ascents
While it's unclear who first ascended Snowdon, the mountain gained popularity in the late 18th century after Thomas Pennant included it in his travel book, "Tours." The area has been a hub for copper mining since the Bronze Age, with remnants like old mine buildings and tramways still visible. Visitors should exercise caution around these historical sites.
Snowdon Facts and Figures
Standing at 1,085 meters (3,560 feet), Snowdon attracts approximately 350,000 visitors each year, either on foot or via train. The summit receives about 200 inches (508 cm) of rain annually. Summer temperatures can reach 30°C, while winter winds and temperatures plummet to -20°C, with wind chills feeling like -50°C. Between November and April, ice and snow often cover the summit.
The Snowdon Mountain Railway
Before the railway, ponies ferried tourists to Snowdon's peak. Sir Richard Moon and Mr. George Assheton Smith conceived the Snowdon Railway to boost tourism and offset declining mining revenue. They imported a fully functional 800mm gauge mountain railway from Switzerland, making it the UK’s only rack and pinion railway.
On its opening day in 1896, a tragic accident occurred when Engine
1, Ladas, derailed. While the crew survived, one passenger jumped from the carriage and succumbed to injuries. After safety improvements, the railway reopened the following year without further incidents. Since then, there hasn’t been another Engine #1.
Despite the cost, the railway offers a great alternative for those unable to climb. Keep in mind, the weather can shift suddenly, enveloping the peak in clouds even on clear days. For the return journey, consider walking down the scenic Llanberis Path, which offers stunning views of the trains.
During summer, trains can be crowded, so it's best to book ahead by calling 0870 458 0033. Trains operate from mid-May to the end of October to the summit and from mid-March to November to Clogwyn.
Summit Buildings
In 1820, guide Lloyd built the first stone shelter at the summit, later transformed by copper miner William Morris into a refreshment stand?"a tradition that continues. Two hotels, Roberts Hotel and the Cold Club, opened but faced fierce competition and less-than-ideal conditions.
By 1898, the Snowdon Mountain Railway and Hotels Company took over, rebuilding after the harsh environment took its toll. In the 1930s, they created a multipurpose hotel, café, and station, designed by Sir Clough William-Ellis, albeit with necessary modifications due to weather damage.
During WWII, the summit buildings were repurposed for experimental radio work and closed to tourists. Post-war, the hotel never reopened to the public.
Modern Developments
In 2004, plans for a complete refurbishment of summit buildings were approved, with demolition beginning in 2006 and completion expected by 2007. Despite debates about the new design, the updated facilities promise to welcome weary walkers reaching the peak.
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Whether you explore by train or on foot, Mount Snowdon offers breathtaking views and a rich tapestry of history waiting to be discovered.
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