Bangor to Llanfairfechan
A station-to-station walkCaernarfonshireWales
The views are spectacular. A walk of two contrasting halves: a steep, sometimes stony climb up and over Bangor Mountain on lanes and footpaths through the town, then a long, generally well-maintained coastal section on the Wales Coast Path with stretches of pebbles and sand and sea-eroded path. Involves steep sections and quite a lot of rough ground. Second half follows the Wales Coast Path. Views to Anglesey, Puffin Island, the Great Orme and Penmaenmawr; hides indicate plentiful wildlife. No facilities on the coastal section.
Coastal: three fifths along the coast.
Penrhyn Castle and Garden: Fantasy castle with industrial and colonial foundations (National Trust; 3h30 to visit).
Great Orme: Surrounded by a 3,000-metre-long drystone wall, Y Parc farm on the Great Orme is rich in wildlife, archaeology and geology (National Trust).
Lunch: The Slate pub just off route near Llandegai is the last chance for refreshments before Llanfairfechan; no facilities along the coastal section.
Warnings: Steep climbs and a fair amount of rough ground. Cross the A5 with care. Coastal path crosses a shingle beach and eroded sections; not advisable during very high spring tides with strong onshore winds.
