THE ARENIGS
A vast area of blanket bog lies to the east of the National Park, fantastic for sphagnum moss but not always enticing for walkers. What’s more inviting are the characterful hills that erupt from the mire. Of these, Arenig Fawr is the most attractive, not least for the tiny bothy situated at its foot. This little stone shack near the water’s edge has cramped space for three and was probably built for the reservoir construction workers.
Its situation, in the middle of a gigantic bog, offers amazing views. In the central band of the National Park and slightly to the east there is nothing between this hill and the countless others arrayed around it. As well as the Rhinogs, Snowdon, the Clwydian hills, the Arans and Cadair Idris, in clear conditions from the summit, the sharp-eyed will be able to make out more distant hills like the Brecon Beacons, the Peak District and the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland. Translated, Arenig Fawr means ‘Great High Ground’. It’s not misnamed.