North Wales E-Bike Tour: Snowdonia Peaks and Coastal Paths

Day 1: Arrive Dolgellau

Welcome to Dolgellau, a small market town nestled at the foot of the Cader Idris mountain range in southern Snowdonia. Arrive at your riverside hotel, where you’ll spend the first two nights. With the mountains right on your doorstep and the clear Welsh air all around, it’s a peaceful place to settle in. You’ll meet your host either this evening or in the morning to get set up with bikes and to go through the itinerary.

Overnight: Dolgellau

Day 2: Dolgellau Circular Ride
17 mi. / 27 km

Your first day on the bike is a great introduction to the region’s varied landscapes. The route begins gently with a car-free ride along a wooded estuary path, following the Mawddach Trail. Then it’s a steady climb up into the hills where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the sea and Cadair Idris, a mountain steeped in Welsh legend. You’ll pass remote farms and natural lakes before looping back into Dolgellau. With a population of around 2,500, the town still holds on to its historic character with slate-roofed buildings and hidden alleyways. Be sure to stop into a local café for a slice of bara brith.

Overnight: Dolgellau

Day 3: Dolgellau - Porthmadog
17, 22, 25 or 37 mi. / 27, 35, 40 or 59 km

Today’s ride leads you toward the coast. You’ll follow the Mawddach River to Barmouth, where a long wooden railway bridge offers one of the most scenic estuary crossings in Wales. After taking in the beach views, head north along the coast, with the option to detour inland for a visit to Harlech. This town is home to one of Wales’s most striking castles, perched on a rocky hill with views out to sea. If the hills become too much, hop on the train for the final stretch to Porthmadog, where you’ll stay for two nights. This small port town is known for its narrow-gauge steam railways and coastal setting.

Overnight: Porthmadog

Day 4: Porthmadog - Blaenau Ffestiniog - Porthmadog

Take a break from cycling today with a choice of local experiences. Ride the short distance to Portmeirion, a whimsical village designed in the 20th century to resemble an Italian town, full of colorful architecture and lush gardens by the estuary. Alternatively, step aboard the historic Ffestiniog Railway for a steam-powered ride up the mountains to Blaenau Ffestiniog, once the slate capital of the world. Here, you can descend deep underground into the Llechwedd Slate Caverns and ride one of Britain’s steepest cable railways. Return by train and enjoy the afternoon at your own pace.

Overnight: Porthmadog

Day 5: Porthmadog - Dinas
19 or 26 mi. / 35 or 46 km

Cycle west today, starting with a relaxed coastal stretch through Porthmadog and Criccieth. Both towns have plenty to explore—Criccieth is particularly known for its beachside castle and food scene. If you'd prefer to conserve energy, take the train between the two. From there, ride inland through a quiet patchwork of farmland and small villages. The route finishes on a former railway track that winds through the lower reaches of Snowdonia. Your next two nights will be spent in a peaceful rural setting, surrounded by hills and open skies.

Overnight: Dinas

Day 6: Dinas - Snowdon - Dinas
21 mi. / 34 km

Today’s journey takes you into the heart of Snowdonia National Park. Begin by cycling through a series of backroads and valleys toward the base of Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales. From there, the Snowdon Mountain Railway carries you to the summit at 1,085 meters, where, on a clear day, you’ll see the Irish Sea, lakes, and miles of rugged countryside. After soaking in the view, take the train back down and coast along quiet lanes and lake shores as you return to your accommodation. It’s one of the most rewarding days of the trip.

Overnight: Dinas

Day 7: Dinas - Anglesey
20 mi. / 32 km

Your final day on the bike begins with a downhill ride toward Caernarfon, home to one of the most imposing castles in the UK. Built by Edward I in the 13th century, Caernarfon Castle played a key role in Welsh and English history. After exploring the town and its harbor, ride alongside the Menai Strait on a mostly traffic-free route. Cross into Anglesey via the old Menai Suspension Bridge, an engineering marvel from the early 1800s. Your final night is in Beaumaris, a relaxed seaside town with another impressive castle—unfinished, but no less striking for it. It's a fitting end to your Welsh journey.

Overnight: Beaumaris

Day 8: Depart Anglesey

Enjoy a relaxed morning before making your way to Bangor, just across the bridge on the mainland. From there, train connections can take you back towards Manchester, Birmingham, or into the rest of the UK. If you’ve got time to spare, Beaumaris is a lovely place to linger with waterfront views, galleries, and cafés.