Rhobell Fawr

Rhobell Fawr is a mountain in the Arenig range within the Snowdonia National Park. Despite its modest height of 2,408 feet (734 metres), it is one of the hardest mountains in Wales to attain, which is a result of its remoteness and the lack of distinct paths. Having conquered the navigational difficulties and arrived at the summit trig point, though, the walker is rewarded with magnificent views, notably of Snowdon, the Nantlle Ridge and the Arans.

The best ascent is a circuit starting at Cwm yr Allt-lwyd. A good path crosses the infant Afon Mawddach, a switchback rises high above the river and then drops to ford it, from where a fence is followed to the neighbouring summit of Dduallt. From there, descend to the forest, which is entered at a corner (SH804259). The forest is extremely dense, but soon a firebreak is reached and this is followed until a forestry track is seen at the edge of the forest (SH797250). Follow this track south-west to a wall (SH792247), turn right and stay by the wall all the way to the summit. The descent is arduous and involves much struggling through heather and bog until finally a path is picked up. The whole walk should take about six hours.