If you are looking for a day out in the Snowdonia wilderness, then you might be up for visiting the gorgeous and legendary Dulyn bothy. Indeed the drive to the car park even provides a sense of monolithic solitude, and you can be sure of a gorgeous walk ahead. This particular route felt challenging because I had never done it before but I found it to be in actuality a very accessible walk that provided a wide-open feeling of space, as well as adventure and genuine moments of consideration and awe that may only usually be found up a mountain or on some kind of higher ground. And you’re in luck as that’s exactly where we are going. Snowdonia is a wonderful place, and it cannot be disputed that this is one of its most precious secrets.
The drive to the main road takes you to some steep winding roads and if you are soloing this you need to be prepared to pop the handbrake on and shoot out so you can sort the gate out. There are a total of three gates that must be opened and held in position along the way, so you can scoot your car through.
But don’t fret, these intermittent sops are a great opportunity for you to take a look at the expansive landscapes and the wildlife surrounding you. The car park, which is labelled as Carnedd Llewelyn parking on google maps) is located approx 2 miles up, near the amazing Llyn Eigiau reservoir. This walk begins at the edge of the aforementioned car park, and you should walk in a straight line towards the old settlements and this is where you choose the direction of the hike.
Personally, I went clockwise and had a steeper incline. I think this is the most interesting way you get to the bothy, the path is more of a track, and once you tackle that first incline, the route is very straightforward and pretty level.
Locating the Dulyn bothy.
As Dulyn reservoir comes into view, you can find yourself scanning the landscape for the bothy and once you see it you will be filled with interest and urge to get there! It’s great motivation if you have some food for the road that you can eat when you get there, with every step bringing you ever closer to that sweet sweet sustenance.
On the final return before the Menlyn reservoir, you’ll be greeted by the ruins of an old mill with a doorway that beautifully frames the mountains. Here you can take a little rest before tackling the last ascent to the bothy.
The bothy itself is a wonderfully simple and generous building, you’ll be be pleased to see some rustic charm which complements the seclusion of the building wonderfully.
There is a fireplace which you can make use of if you’ve got some wood or coal, brought up in your pack. Remember to be respectful and do not leave any rubbish behind whatsoever. This is the cardinal rule of bothying. Respect the place, have fun and be safe. You can stay at lodges in Snowdonia if you want something a little more tame in North Wales!
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