Aran Fawddwy

Aran Fawddwy is a mountain peak reaching 905 meters, making it the second-highest summit in Wales after Snowdon, with steep eastern cliffs rising above Creiglyn Dyfi lake. The ridge shows rough granite faces and open moorland that stand out sharply against the green valleys below.

The summit formed millions of years ago through geological processes that created its distinctive granite profile and steep ridges. In more recent times, a memorial cairn was placed on the eastern ridge to honor Michael Robert Aspain, a member of an RAF Mountain Rescue team who died from lightning strike in 1960.

The mountain forms part of the main ridge connecting Dolgellau and Bala in southern Snowdonia and holds significance in local mountaineering traditions. Hikers view it as a central point on established routes that connect different valleys and communities in the region.

The hike starts best from Cwm Cywarch car park and follows marked trails through Hengwm and Drws Bach to the summit. The climb takes several hours, and visitors should prepare for changeable weather and steep sections.

The mountain has two lakes nearby, including Creiglyn Dyfi on the eastern side, from which the River Dyfi springs and later flows to the coast as one of Wales' remaining wild rivers. This proximity to a river source makes the surrounding area especially interesting for nature lovers.