Cwm Bychan and the Roman Steps

A few miles south of Harlech is the delightful village of Llanbedr. From here you can follow the signs for Cwm Bychan in the heart of the Rhinog National Nature Reserve - a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

Llyn Cwm Bychan is a naturally formed lake that holds brown trout and a fish known locally as "the red bellied char" , a fish that is related to the trout.

Cwm Bychan is about 7 miles up into the mountains. As you get near to the Cwm the roads are very narrow, so be prepared to reverse.

There is a Car Park (fee payable) at the far end of the lake. From here there is a path leading to the Roman Steps which runs through the Rhinog National Nature Reserve, an area of some 990 acres.

Note: All routes include steep sections – this area is regarded as some of the most difficult terrain in Wales

This upland heathland is considered so special that it has been declared a Biogenetic Reserve – part of a network of habitats across Europe established to preserve the genetic variety of Europe's wildlife.

The heath is home to small populations of black and red grouse, as well as ring ouzel, meadow pipit and wheatear in the summer.

Peregrine falcon, merlin and hen harrier prey upon these smaller birds.

Further information including directions visit the Countryside for Wales website

Images courtesy of VisitWales
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Self catering accommodation in Harlech is ideal for walking Cym Bychan and the Roman Steps - perfect for walking groups and family holidays