|
Snowdonia National Park was established in 1951 as one of the first national parks in Britain. The boundary goes from the south of Gwynedd to the north coast of Wales whilst its width reaches from Bala Town to the west coast of the country.
In Welsh, the area is called Eryri which stands for Highlands. It covers 827 square miles and stretches along 37 miles of coastline. Almost three quarters of the land is privately owned. There is a high amount of agricultural activity in the park.
Obviously, the prime location for all that visit the Snowdonia National Park is Mount Snowdon itself. The highest peak in Wales and the highest peak south of the Scottish Highlands, it is a challenge for hikers and climbers. Recently, a new state-of-the-art visitor centre and cafe has been built on the summit of Mount Snowdon costing an estimated £8.4m called Hafod Eryri. It was completed on 12th June, 2010. The Snowdon Mountain Railway gives easier access to the summit and back down the mountain for those who don't find the 3,560ft hike appealing.
The park has more to offer than Mount Snowdon though. Its landscape and wildlife is a fine testament to the country of Wales. The Gwydir Forest at Betws-y-Coed provides relaxing walks and a fantastic chilled out atmosphere. Northern Snowdonia is also home to some rare wildlife including the Snowdon Lily and the Snowdon beetle.
A large percentage of the park is designated as a site of special scientific interest, special area of conservation or listed as an area of significant interest. This goes to show how special the park is for all the amazing wildlife and animals it boasts. Rare animals including otters, pole cats and pine martins thrive in the park and it is the Snowdonia National Park Authority's determination to keep it that way.
| 