Walk in the footsteps of Giants.
Walk in the footsteps of Giants.
Steeped in legend, its name translates as “Chair of Idris,” after the giant said to have sat upon it. Folklore warns that anyone spending the night on its summit will awaken either mad or a poet – though today, visitors are advised to enjoy it in daylight hours only! Its dramatic ridges, sweeping views and rich wildlife make it one of Wales’s most popular mountain walks and a key challenge in the Welsh Three Peaks.
There are three main routes to the top, each classed as strenuous and taking around five to six hours. Walkers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramas from the summit of Penygadair, but conditions can be challenging, with snow and ice lingering into spring. Visitors should come prepared, follow the Countryside Code, and stick to the designated paths to protect the fragile landscape. Car parks with facilities are available at Minffordd, Llanfihangel y Pennant, and Tŷ Nant, but they fill quickly at weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended. Whether you come for the adventure, the legends, or the views across Cardigan Bay and deep into Snowdonia, Cadair Idris is an unforgettable mountain experience.
