The Berwyns: North Wales's Hidden Upland

The Berwyn Mountains stretch across a broad upland plateau to the south and east of Corwen, forming one of the largest areas of open moorland in Wales. Less visited than Snowdonia to the west, the Berwyns offer a quieter, wilder walking experience — vast heather moorland, hidden waterfalls, dramatic ridges, and far-reaching views over the Dee Valley and beyond.

For walkers based in or visiting Corwen, the Berwyns are quite literally on the doorstep, and the range of routes suits everyone from casual afternoon strollers to experienced hillwalkers.

Key Peaks and Features

  • Cadair Berwyn (827m) — The highest point in the Berwyn range, offering panoramic views on clear days
  • Cadair Bronwen (785m) — A fine ridge walk connecting with Cadair Berwyn
  • Pistyll Rhaeadr — Wales's highest waterfall at 73 metres, located on the southern edge of the range near Llanrhaeadr ym Mochnant
  • Moel Sych (827m) — Jointly the highest summit with Cadair Berwyn; dramatic escarpment views

Walking Routes from Corwen

Route 1: The Dee Valley Riverside Walk (Easy)

A gentle introduction to the area, this walk follows the banks of the River Dee from Corwen toward Carrog. The flat, well-marked path offers beautiful river scenery, woodland sections, and an excellent chance of spotting herons, kingfishers, and dippers along the water's edge. Allow 2–3 hours for a leisurely return walk.

Route 2: Llantysilio Mountain (Moderate)

Rising to the north of Corwen across the river, Llantysilio Mountain provides a rewarding half-day walk with exceptional views back down the Dee Valley. The approach from Corwen gains height steadily through farmland before opening onto open moorland. Distance approximately 8–10km return.

Route 3: Cadair Berwyn via the Northern Approach (Challenging)

The most ambitious route accessible from the Corwen area, this full-day walk heads south from the town into the Berwyn uplands, eventually reaching the summit ridge. Navigation skills and appropriate equipment are essential. Distance approximately 18–22km; allow a full day.

Essential Walking Tips

  1. Check the weather — The Berwyns can cloud over quickly; visibility on the plateau can drop to near zero in mist.
  2. Wear appropriate footwear — Waterproof walking boots are essential; the moorland is frequently boggy.
  3. Carry a map and compass — GPS is useful but battery-dependent; the OS Explorer Map OL255 covers the area.
  4. Tell someone your plans — Let someone know your route and expected return time.
  5. Take plenty of water — There are few reliable resupply points once you're on the open hill.

Wildlife and Nature

The Berwyn Mountains are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation. Walkers may encounter:

  • Red kites — now a regular sight soaring over the Dee Valley
  • Peregrine falcons nesting on upland crags
  • Red grouse bursting from heather underfoot
  • Mountain hares on the higher plateau
  • Curlew and golden plover calling over the moorland

Getting Started

Corwen is an excellent base for Berwyn walking. The town has parking, refreshment options, and is compact enough to reach walking routes on foot from the centre. The Glyndŵr's Way National Trail also passes through the area, offering waymarked long-distance walking for those who want a multi-day experience.

Whatever your level of experience, the Berwyns reward those who make the effort to explore them — with solitude, scenery, and a genuine sense of wild Wales.