Pen y Cadair
About Pen y Cadair
Pen y Cadair is the true summit of Cadair Idris. The mountain is steeped in Welsh mythology — legend says anyone who sleeps on its summit will wake either a poet or a madman.
Height & Prominence of Pen y Cadair
Pen y Cadair stands at 893 metres (2930 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 733 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Pen y Cadair is part of the Cadair Idris. The OS grid reference is SH 711130, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.
Pen y Cadair carries the classifications of Hewitt, Nuttall, Marilyn.
Location & Nearest Towns
Pen y Cadair is located in Wales, Gwynedd, within Snowdonia National Park. It sits in the Cadair Idris area. The nearest towns and villages include Dolgellau, Llyn y Gadair, Barmouth, and others, where you can find accommodation, pubs, and supplies before or after your walk.
For official access information and any seasonal restrictions, check the Snowdonia National Park authority.
Interesting Facts
- Legend says sleeping on the summit makes you a poet or a madman
- Named after the giant Idris Gawr who used it as a chair
- Contains a glacial lake, Llyn y Gadair, in a spectacular corrie
- One of the finest ridge walks in southern Snowdonia
- The mountain featured heavily in early Welsh Romantic art
Safety Tips
Always check forecasts before setting out. Summit conditions differ dramatically from valley level.
Carry map, compass/GPS, water, food, first aid, whistle, torch, and waterproofs.
Tell someone your route and return time. Stick to marked paths. Be ready to turn back.
Ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. Know your grid reference.
On the Mountain: Walking Pen y Cadair
Pen y Cadair is a moderate walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 893m, where conditions can feel distinctly different from the valley — wind speeds are typically 30–50% stronger above 800m, and the temperature drops roughly 1°C for every 100m of ascent. In cloud, the cairn at the top can be hard to spot, so keep a map and compass to hand even on well-marked paths.
After your walk, the nearest village — Dolgellau — is a good place for a pint and a debrief. For detailed route descriptions and trip reports from other walkers, Walkhighlands is an excellent resource.
Nearby Dining
- Cadair Idris pub, Dolgellau
- T H Roberts, Dolgellau
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pen y Cadair one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?
Yes, Pen y Cadair is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 893m elevation, and moderate difficulty level.
What difficulty level is Pen y Cadair?
Pen y Cadair has a difficulty rating of Moderate. Various routes are available for different experience levels.
When is the best time to climb Pen y Cadair?
The best season is Spring to Autumn. Summit temperatures are typically 5–10°C colder than the valley, and conditions can change rapidly.
Why Visit Pen y Cadair?
Pen y Cadair stands at 893m (2930ft) in Wales, Gwynedd. Classified as a Hewitt and Nuttall and Marilyn, it is a rewarding destination for hikers, climbers, and photographers.
Browse our UK mountains directory to discover more peaks, or see all mountains A–Z.
Nearby Peaks to Explore
Looking beyond Pen y Cadair? These peaks are close by and worth exploring.
