Dolgellau 

Dolgellau is in the heart of Welsh nationalist country and lies in the Mawddach Valley, in the shadow of the Idris range. It is said that if anyone spends a night on Cader Idris they will wake either a madman or a poet.

Dolgellau is a picturesque town featuring neo-Georgian squares and buildings made from local slate. Despite the town's attractiveness, visitors will probably find the surrounding countryside more interesting and it is well known as excellent walking territory.

• Precipice Walk winds along a high ridge to the north of the town and offers splendid views of the Cambrian Hills and Cader Idris. Another popular walk is the gentle Torrent Walk along the River Clywedog. There are also more strenuous hikes up the summit of Cadair Idris.