The Route : To join ‘The Way’ from Tal y Bont leave the Car Park, go past Ysgethin Inn, and follow the path along the river through the woods (take care in places). At a minor road go right, cross Pont Fadog, then at a fork join the Central Section. ‘The Way’ follows the seaward side of the Rhinog Mountains through several sites with important wildlife habitats.

The Iron Age fort, Craig y Dinas, is prominent on the left. Listen for ravens which nest on the cliffs ahead. Pont Ysgethin bridge (A) was on an important historic route. Incredibly stage coaches crossed the mountains here to Bontddu. ‘The Way’ joins and shortly leaves a hard surfaced track to follow a green track on the right. Red kites (B) may be seen along the route. At Tal y Ffynhonnau branch right and in 0.5 miles ‘The Way’ turns right at a minor road (for Dyffryn Ardudwy turn left here). Pass historic manganese mines and a spring, at the viewpoint take the footpath down to Cwm Nantcol wetlands for rare plants and butterflies. Wheatears and goats (C) can often be seen nearby.

Farm tracks lead over to Pont Pen y Bont, another stage coach bridge. Look for dippers and grey wagtails (for Llanbedr turn left here). ‘The Way’ heads right, along the road before becoming a footpath passing a small lake (D) on to the mountains where buzzards, yellowhammers and meadow pipits are common. At a minor road (E) turn left to follow the road to Harlech or Llanfair,
alternatively turn right then left to continue on the Northern Section of ‘The Way’.

Reverse Route: The route in the reverse direction, Harlech to Tal y Bont, starts from above Harlech Castle going up the steep hill past The Lion Hotel. In 1 mile turn left at the chapel, then in 0.5 miles fork right - signposted Cwm Bychan. After another mile on reaching ‘The Way’ turn right.