Gelert’s Grave Riverside Walk, Beddgelert

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Difficulty: Easy

Length: 1.85 km (1.15 miles)

Approx. duration: 1hr

Parking: Paid (Google Maps)

Dogs: Yes – On lead near livestock

From Perthi Holiday Cottages: 10-minute walk

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Beddgelert village centre with the bridge over the River Glaslyn

This short, easy circular walk follows the River Glaslyn from Beddgelert village to Gelert's Grave — one of the most visited spots in Eryri, and one of its most atmospheric early in the morning.

You're in the right place if you're looking for an easy, flat walk with a genuine story behind it. No hills, no special equipment — just a good path, a river, and one of Wales's most enduring legends.

According to local legend, it marks the resting place of Gelert, the faithful hound of Prince Llywelyn the Great. The story tells how Llywelyn returned from hunting to find his baby missing and Gelert with a bloodied mouth. Believing the dog had killed the child, Llywelyn slew Gelert—only to discover the baby alive nearby and a dead wolf that Gelert had bravely fought off. Stricken with grief, the prince is said never to have smiled again.

Though the story is widely regarded as a Victorian-era invention to boost tourism, the grave remains a poignant and popular attraction, nestled along a riverside walk in Beddgelert.

“Go early morning if you can, especially in summer — it’s a completely different place before the coaches arrive. Out of season it’s lovely any time.” — Delyth, Perthi Holiday Cottages

Our 17th-century cottages sit just above Beddgelert, with walking routes straight from the door.

Step-by-Step Walk Guide

Numbered steps with photos to help you follow the route.

The walk begins in the centre of Beddgelert next to the public toilets. Guests staying at Perthi Holiday Cottages can reach the start easily on foot. Go through the pictured gate, keeping the river on your left.
Take the first right off the main path, signposted Gelert's Grave.
Follow the path until you find the the grave beneath the trees pictured in the photos. Further on in the ruined house you will find a sculpture of Gelert.
Keep following the path around back to the river and turn right by the water treatment building.
Follow the river until you come to a wooden bridge. Cross this and make your way back towards Beddgelert, still keeping the river on your left.
You will arrive back at the village green where you'll need to cross the bridge back to the start point.
Beddgelert village green in Snowdonia

17th-Century Cottages in Beddgelert

Rated 4.98 on Airbnb from over 300 guest reviews

Ty Hebog historical barn conversion exterior at Perthi in Beddgelert Cosy log burner interior at Ty Hebog cottage Luxury king size bedroom with original historic character at Ty Felin water mill

Stay in a converted water mill, a historic barn or a mountain lodge on Delyth’s family farm above the village — with wide Eryri views and walking routes from the door.