Up To Llawlech

This splendid upland walk from the Ysgethin Inn car park at Tal-y-Bont starts by tracing the Afon Ysgethin through woodland before exploring the rough moorland above the village, following old trackways and heading up to Lawlech ridge with the promise of fabulous views over the coast, the Mawddach Estuary and Cadair Idris. The route follows the river to Llety Lloegr (boarding house of the English), which served drovers as they made their way to and from the Llyn Peninsula. The track passes an ancient burial chamber before heading up to Pont Scethin, an arched pack-horse bridge once on the main route from Harlech to Dolgellau which carried the London to Harlech mail coach. Bandits frequently raided the coaches as they crossed the bridge and a nearby coaching inn that once stood on the lower slopes of Moelfre. There is then an ascent, reaching the pass between Diffwys and Llawlech and following the ridge as it meanders towards Bwlch-y-Rhiwgr (Pass of the Horns). The descent includes Grade Two-listed Pont Fadog bridge before heading back down through the woods to the Ysgethin. On the ascent care is needed and there are a some ladder stiles. Public Transport - The G23 bus at 9.33am from Barmouth to Tal-y-bont. Return bus to Barmouth at 4.14pm, 5.14pm or 6.14pm.