The Best Scenic Drives in North Wales

The Best Scenic Drives in North Wales

North Wales is blessed with some of the most spectacular driving routes in the UK. From winding mountain passes that cut through the heart of Snowdonia to coastal roads hugging the Irish Sea, every journey here is an adventure. Here are our favourite scenic drives to enjoy on your next cottage holiday.

1. The Pen-y-Pass to Capel Curig (A4086)

This is arguably the most dramatic stretch of tarmac in Wales. Starting at Pen-y-Pass — the highest point on the A4086 at 361 metres above sea level — the road sweeps down towards Capel Curig with jaw-dropping views of the Glyderau and Snowdon massif on your left.

Stop at the Lay-by near the Llyn Cwm Dyli reservoir for the best photo opportunities. On a clear day, the view across to Snowdon's summit is simply breathtaking.

Best for: Mountain drama and photography
Distance: Approx 8 miles
Allow: 25-30 minutes (plus stops)

2. The Horseshoe Pass (B5106)

The Horseshoe Pass gets its name from the shape of the road as it curves around the Berwyn Mountains. Rising to 1,368 feet, this drive offers panoramic views across the Denbigh Moors and the Vale of Clwyd.

Stop at the Ponderosa Cafe at the summit — it's a popular meeting spot for motorcyclists and offers stunning views with a cup of tea and a slice of cake.

Best for: Open vistas and a great roadside cafe
Distance: Approx 10 miles
Allow: 30 minutes

3. The Llanberis Pass (A4086)

Cutting through the heart of Snowdonia between Llanberis and Pen-y-Pass, the Llanberis Pass is flanked by towering crags and dramatic scree slopes. The road is narrow and winding, which only adds to the sense of adventure.

Look out for the old slate quarry workings and the dramatic cliffs of Clogwyn y Garnedd. This is one of those drives where you'll want to take it slowly — not because of the road, but because the scenery demands it.

Best for: Dramatic mountain scenery
Distance: Approx 7 miles
Allow: 20-25 minutes

4. The Great Orme Marine Drive, Llandudno

This is a gentle, scenic toll road that loops around the Great Orme headland in Llandudno. The road clings to the cliffside with the Irish Sea crashing below, offering views across to Anglesey and the Conwy estuary.

Watch out for the famous Great Orme goats that often wander onto the road! There are plenty of pull-ins to stop and admire the views, and you can combine the drive with a visit to the Great Orme Tramway or cable car.

Best for: Coastal views and family-friendly adventure
Distance: Approx 5 miles
Allow: 30-45 minutes (toll road)

5. The Llyn Peninsula Coastal Drive

The Llyn Peninsula is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and driving its coastal roads is a pure joy. Start in Pwllheli and follow the B4413 west towards Aberdaron, then continue around the coast.

You'll pass through charming villages like Abersoch, Llanbedrog (where you'll find the striking Tin Man sculpture on the headland), and Porthdinllaen, where the road runs right along the beach. The drive ends at Aberdaron, where you can see Bardsey Island (Ynys Enlli) on a clear day.

Best for: Coastal charm and hidden coves
Distance: Approx 35 miles (full loop)
Allow: 2-3 hours (plus stops)

6. The Conwy Valley (A470)

Following the river Conwy south from the historic town of Conwy, this drive takes you through lush green valleys with the river on one side and the mountains of Snowdonia on the other.

Stop at Betws-y-Coed for a wander around this popular tourist village, or continue south towards Llanrwst and the beautiful Gwydir Forest. The Conwy Valley drive is particularly beautiful in autumn when the forests turn golden.

Best for: Gentle scenery and woodland
Distance: Approx 25 miles
Allow: 1 hour

7. The Bala Lake Drive (A494 / B4403)

Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid) is the largest natural lake in Wales, and the drive around it is a delight. Take the B4403 along the eastern shore for the best views of the lake with the Aran Mountains rising behind.

The road is quiet and peaceful, and there are several spots where you can pull in and walk along the lakeside. Bala itself is a charming market town worth exploring.

Best for: Tranquil lake views
Distance: Approx 15 miles
Allow: 45 minutes

Tips for Driving in North Wales

• Take it slow: Many of these routes are narrow and winding. Allow extra time and enjoy the journey rather than rushing.
• Watch for sheep: On mountain roads, sheep often wander onto the road. Always be prepared to stop.
• Check the weather: Mountain weather can change quickly. If there's fog or ice, consider an alternative route.
• Fuel up: Some of the more remote routes have limited fuel stops, especially in Snowdonia.
• Respect the locals: These are working roads used by farmers and residents. Use passing places and pull in to let others past when you're admiring the view.

Where to Stay

Each of these scenic drives passes through some of the most beautiful parts of North Wales. Browse our holiday cottages in the area to find the perfect base for your driving adventure — whether that's a cosy cottage in the mountains of Snowdonia or a coastal retreat on the Llyn Peninsula.