The Mawddach Round

THE MAWDDACH ROUND
44.7 km (27.8 miles) 2,410 m of climb.

This demanding marathon length circuit of the estuary takes in the summits of Cadair Idris to the South and its counterpart, Diffwys to the north.

The route is based on that devised and kindly supplied by David Pritchard, a keen fell-runner and long-time visitor to the estuary. It was conceived as a means of celebrating his 50th ascent of each mountain (“Why not do the two together?”) and very nearly served as a celebration of his own 50th year.

He very modestly described himself as “more of a fell-plodder than runner,” but clocked up a very creditable 6 h 25 min for the Round, including an estimated 10 minutes getting to and from his cottage to the start. It is David’s opinion that clockwise is the best way to tackle the route.

Whether you walk or run the Round, this route goes into a high mountain environment where the weather can change dramatically and suddenly, and where slips and falls can have the severest of consequences. In order to complete the Round you will need to be well equipped in terms of fitness, kit and knowledge and it should not be undertaken by the inexperienced.

The route is not way-marked and the information on the route card is for guidance only. You will need both map and compass (and the knowledge to use them) to find your way around. The route is covered by 1:25000 Outdoor Leisure Maps 23 & 18.

FREE DOWNLOAD: Mawddach Round Route Guide
Download, print and fold our FREE hand held guide to the Mawddach Round.

Buy Explorer map OL18 'Harlech, Porthmadog & Bala'

Buy Explorer map OL23 'Cadair Idris & Llyn Tegid'

FREE DOWNLOAD: GPX data for the Mawddach Round
Download a free zip file of the route in .gpx format for your GPS

1. The Mawddach Trail
The famous 'Railway Walk' between Barmouth and Dolgellau along the edge of the estuary. More...

2. The Mawddach Way
A three day 50km circular route around the estuary. More...

3. The Mawddach Round
A 28 mile circular route taking in the summit of Cadair Idris and Diffwys. More...

4. Taith Ardudwy Way
Taith Ardudwy Way is a linear route joining the railway station at Llandecwyn to Barmouth. More...

5. Panorama Walk
Stunning views of the Mawddach estuary, Barmouth Bridge and Cadair Idris. More...

6. The Precipice Walk
A Victorian Classic at the head of the Mawddach estuary. More...

7. New Precipice Walk
Views down the Mawddach estuary as far as Barmouth viaduct and across to Dolgellau and the Arans. More...

8. The Torrent Walk
A fairy-tale walk around a moss-encrusted river valley. More...

9. Arthog Falls
A bracing climb alongside the waterfalls running through ancient woodland. More...

10. Farchynys
A woodland walk on the very edge of the river Mawddach, with views up and down the estuary and over to Cadair Idris. More...

11. Abergwynant Woods
A woodland walk accessed via the Mawddach Trail More...

Barmouth Festival Of Walking
The Festival of Walking provides walkers of all abilities the opportunity to enjoy eight days of guided walks around the Mawddach Estuary. More...