Dolgellau Attractions
The Mawddach estuary is of great scenic beauty. A road runs along its shores to Dolgellau (10mi/16km), a town of stone-built and slate-roofed houses beautifully situated in the valley of the Wnion. Around the turn of the century there was a "mini gold-rush" here, when gold was found in some of the mountain streams nearby. The gold used for the wedding rings of the Queen, the Prince of Wales and Princess Diana came from veins of quartz at the Clogau St David's Mine, the hallmark of which carries the Welsh red dragon. Being within reach of so much magnificent scenery, Dolgellau is a favorite base for walks and climbs in the surrounding hills and on Cadair Idris. To gain an initial impression of this beautiful landscape, the visitor is recommended to take the Precipice Walk to Moel Cynwch (1,068ft/326m) and on to Cymmer Abbey, a Cistercian foundation of 1,198, of which only the Norman church (restored) has been preserved.
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Cadair Idris
Cadir Idris, rising to 893 m, is a popular hiking area. A typical ascent of the mountain takes between 2.5 and 4 hours.
Cymer Abbey
Cymer Abbey is located near Dolgellau beside the River Mawddach. The abbey was founded by Cistercian monks and suffered badly during the 13th C. The wars between England and Wales likely account for the failure to complete the church that was originally planned for the site. What remains of the abbey provides insight into the Cisterians way of life.
