A glacial valley at the foot of Snowdon, Wales' highest peak. That is what Llanberis Pass promises, and it delivers. At about 25 miles (40 km), it is a drive best taken slowly, over 1 day, with time to pull over whenever the view demands it on the way from Betws-y-Coed to Llanberis.
Open this route in XCRSNSetting out from Betws-y-Coed
Start early, with a full tank and a loose plan. Betws-y-Coed is where the road begins, and the first miles set the rhythm for everything that follows.
The first big moment is Swallow Falls. Give it the time it deserves; it is why many people make this trip at all.
Along the way
The road strings together Pen-y-Pass. It is the natural place to stop, eat well and stretch your legs.
Do not miss Snowdon Mountain Railway.
Arriving in Llanberis
Save energy for the final stretch: Dolbadarn Castle is still ahead.
By the end you will have seen Swallow Falls, Snowdon Mountain Railway and Dolbadarn Castle, and you will understand why Llanberis Pass belongs on any list of great drives.
When to go and how to pace it
The best time to drive it is April–October. Plan on 1 day so the drive never feels rushed.
Check route weather and fuel stops on the Plan tab before you go.
XCRSN prices fuel for every leg in the local currency, finds stops along the way and books overnights near each town.
