Pictures of Llanberis
About Llanberis
This lovely old Welsh town occupies a stunningly beautiful setting within the landscape of the Snowdonia National Park. It has a unique history, and for centuries was widely known for the production of slate. However, its slate quarry which finally closed in 1969 is now an interesting museum and Llanberis, surrounded by rugged mountains, acts mostly as an inland tourist resort.
The area has unrivalled views, particularly from the winding Llanberis Pass which runs dramatically between Snowdon and the Glyders. This shows views across stone cluttered hills towards glimmering lakes with a distant glimpse of Anglesey. The village itself, is the starting point for the railway assent and the easiest walk, to the summit of Snowdon. The walk is extremely exhilarating, taking you through breathtaking scenery, but the train, with no loss of scenic beauty is the quickest and easiest way to reach the mountain top.
The twin lakes of Llyn Padarn and Llyn Peris reflect the mountain scenery. A narrow-gauge railway along the eastern shore of Llyn Padarn opened in 1971. The main station for this is at Padarn Country Park, across the valley from the town. The line takes visitors through a riot of lakeside scenery and woodland, with the journey broken at Cei Llydan to enjoy the spectacular views. All the locomotives used for this atmospheric trip, have been previously used by the Dinorwic Quarries for hauling wagons loaded with slate. Closed in 1969, Dinorwic Quarry is now the town's major tourist attraction, it holds one of the largest waterwheels built in Victorian times. At the quarry visitors can fully discover the history and heritage of the Welsh slate industry, in a friendly atmosphere where there is lots to interest every member of the family.
Llanberis has many attractions both in the town and closeby. Of interest is the little church at Nant Peris, this is famous for the waters in its well during the 19th century (and probably before) when they were believed to effect a cure for invalids. Pilgrims visiting the church would look for the two "sacred fish" in the well. The appearance of the fish whilst taking the water was a certain sign of a cure.
Llanberis is famous for its gruelling marathon and Snowdon Race. Circumnavigation Snowdon, the marathon passes the Pen y Pass which is reached 1100 feet above sea level - the event, held in October, starts and finishes in Llanberis. The Snowdon race also starts and finishes in Llanberis, this attracts international competitors, the runners race to the highest point of Snowdon, some 3065 feet high and five miles distant. An arduous task considering the race is held in July, the very height of summer.
July is also carnival time in Llanberis, this is a jolly event in which everyone joins in the fun. The carnival cavalcades around all the streets and passes in front of the pubs, shops and hotels along the High Street.
Heady with the seductive scenery of mountain ranges, beautiful lakes, a romantic miniature railway and an ancient history, Llanberis has a vast appeal. It is the perfect destination for anyone wishing to enjoy a tranquil time in the most beautiful of surroundings.
