The Snowdon Challenge
A 17km cycle, 14km trek, 4km paddle and 8-hour sweat to the finish line in beautiful North Wales
What's Included?
Activities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with local, qualified and experienced instructors and mountain leadersHotel
1 night in a local 3-star hotelMeals
Breakfast at the hotel and a packed-lunch up the mountainTransfers
Transfers from Bangor train station and backEquipment
Everything you need for cycling and kayaking will be sortedSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 10 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
What's it like?
Take on one of the UK’s most rewarding mountain challenges and summit the highest peak in Wales (1085m)
Bike 17km of country lanes, nail the 14km trek up Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and kayak 4km on the stunning Llyn Padarn
A day of unrivalled action in Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, one of the UK’s wildest adventure playgrounds
Key Information
Day 1
Arrive and get briefed for the big day
Arrive at your hotel in the village of Llanberis in the evening. Llanberis is situated right at the foot of Snowdon on the banks of Llyn Padarn, one of the largest lakes in Wales. At 19:00 you'll have a detailed pre-challenge meeting, after which you are free to explore the town or chill in your hotel in preparation for the challenge ahead.
Day 2
It's on – the Snowdon Challenge
Cycling
Hiking
Kayaking
Wake up early for a hearty breakfast and then hit the road. You’ll bike through the Welsh countryside, follow the shores of Llyn Padarn and skirt along the edge of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park with the peak of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) looming in the distance.
You'll stomp it up the Snowdon Ranger Trail on the quieter, west side of the mountain and zigzag through lush green turf and flat boggy bits before ascending to the ridgeline. Follow the ridgeline all the way to the summit for a victory photo and a quick breather before descending to the northwest via the more gradual Llanberis Path, finishing in Llanberis itself.
You'll then go for a brisk paddle around Llyn Padarn, completing a large circuit of the lake, smash through the finish line and celebrate with a glass of champers.
Challenge completed.
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
A full English or continental breakfast is included at the hotel and a packed lunch is provided for the hiking portion of the challenge, including a sandwich, cereal bar, drink, chocolate bar and piece of fruit. Llanberis also has plenty of restaurants and pubs to choose from and any dietary needs can be accommodated (including vegetarian and vegan), just let your host know when booking.
What is the accommodation like?
Llanberis
You’ll stay at the Royal Victoria Hotel in Llanberis, which features comfortable and modern ensuite rooms. Exactly the kind of comfort you need before the challenge starts.
Upgrades
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability).
This trip has been rated as Moderate
This trip is suitable whether you’ve done challenges before or it’s your first one. No particular level of skill is needed, but you do need a good level of walking and cycling fitness.
Summers in Llanberis are perfect for athletics because they’re not excessively hot or sunny. Daytime temperatures average a pleasant 19 °C, and nighttime temperatures cool off to 12 °C.
Because of its elevation, weather on Snowdon is considerably cooler and more fickle. Temperatures range from 10 – 12 °C during the day, but the skies are clear roughly half the days each month.
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Bangor Train Station or Llanberis Hotel
18:00 / 18:30 on Day 1
Ends
Llanberis Hotel or Bangor Train Station
17:30 / 18:00 on Day 2
Transfers
For those travelling by train – you'll be picked up at Bangor Train Station at 18:00 on Day 1. If you're driving, aim to arrive at the hotel in Llanberis by no later than 18:30 to be ready in time for the briefing at 19:00.
At the end of your adventure, you will be dropped back at the hotel at 17:30 or Bangor Train Station at 18:00, the choice is up to you.
Travel options
Trains run frequently to Bangor from destinations all across the UK. There is car parking at the hotel for those driving.
Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear
In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.
What's included
- Cycling equipment (bike and helmet)
- Kayaking equipment (kayak, paddle and buoyancy aid)
- Safety equipment (first aid kit and radio)
What do I need to bring?
- Rucksack (15-25 litre)
- Warm jacket
- Waterproof jacket with hood
- Waterproof trousers
- Worn in hiking boots or shoes
- Warm hat
- Thin gloves
- Padded cycling shorts (optional)
- Cycling shoes or trainers
- Old Trainers (for kayaking that you don't mind getting wet)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Water bottles or water bladder (2 litres)
- Snacks and energy food and drink for the day
Pre/post trip accommodation - double/twin room
Payable Before Departure
Pre/post trip accommodation - double/twin room
… Per Night
Pre/post trip accommodation - single room
Payable Before Departure
Pre/post trip accommodation - single room
… Per Night
Optional Private Room Upgrade
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private Room Upgrade
… Per Person
A great day out!
An enjoyable and challenging adventure. The trip went off without a hitch thanks to Mike, Sue and Jim. The flapjacks for lunch were also amazing!
Snowdon Challenge
Well organised trip, basic but decent accommodation and a good day out. The bike and kayak sections are secondary to the walk up the mountain so bear that in mind if you prefer wheels and paddles to feet
Snowden Adventure
Great experience, would recommend it. Plenty of info emailed beforehand and everything was well organised with a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Thanks Mark, Sue and Jim from Adventurous Ewe.
Great time, great time
Had such a fantastic time with a wonderful group today. Definitely recommend if you’re looking for a way to get back into - or start - being a bit more adventurous. Mike was an amazing guide. Beautiful time, but exhausting! (In a good way).
Great day
Perfect organisation from Jim as all transfers were organised smoothly. All equipment is provided so you just need to enjoy the trip. Worth it.
Fab weekend with the girls
I’d like to say thanks to MBA/Adventurous Ewe for a well organised day, even though the weather wasn’t kind to us. The team at AE knew exactly the pace of the group and what we all wanted out of it. It wasn’t a mad pace, which I appreciated, so we were able to enjoy the day and even stop off to see the waterfall.
Snowdon
Really great trip. All the guys were superb. Tom taking us up the mountain and cycle and Jim arranging things and manning the van. Fantastic views, great hotel. Thoroughly recommend.
Cannot thank Jim, Kat, and
Cannot thank Jim, Kat, and Tom enough for leading us through an incredible weekend. The energy and meticulous organisation each brought ensured a well-organised and immensely fun experience for all of us.
We embarked on this adventure as a stag group, and one of our members had an injury. Kat was exceptional in accommodating this, tailoring the weekend to suit our needs perfectly. Her adaptability and attentiveness made it clear that anyone concerned about their ability to keep up would be well taken care of.
From start to finish, the team at Much Better Adventure went above and beyond to ensure we had an unforgettable time. The camaraderie, stunning scenery, and expertly planned activities made this a trip we'll remember for years to come. If you're considering a challenge like this but are worried about any potential hurdles, rest assured that you will be in excellent hands.
Excellent organisation by Jim and
Excellent organisation by Jim and the team. Everything was there for you. There was no rush and I didn't feel under any pressure to rush up the mountain, which was good as my legs turned to lead half way up. Thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience and had a great laugh finishing off with the kayak. Brilliant day. Hotel was very comfortable with good food and great staff, packed lunch was just right
Fantastic Snowdon challenge
Fantastic guides and organisation. Well paced for the whole group. Lunch was lovely. Not so sure about the ‘champagne’ at the end! Would definitely recommend
Great trip
Really recommend this trip (and MBA) - the guides Abby and Mark were great and with the hot weather the views were spectacular. The kit list should also include swimwear to paddle post kayaking and although the challenge was meant to finish in time for the station at 6, we were probably an hour behind so build flexibility into your plans for heading home if you want the full experience.
We had a great time,
We had a great time, guides were amazing managing the varied group. Stunning views and great organisation thank you Abby and Mark.
Great day, Kat was a
Great day, Kat was a brilliant guide, weather was a bit misty but otherwise everything else was excellent.
Stunning
Had a great weekend in a stunning part of the world. Met some great people and was fantastically organised by a team that couldn’t do enough for you. Couldn’t recommend highly enough.
Snowdon challenge and my first MBA day!
Absolutely brilliant adventure, very well organised from start to finish, the team were great, met a lovely bunch of people, the hotel was nice too and well located for all the activities, good quality and good selection ofequipment, very talkative and full of knowledge team, the hike up snowdon was amazing with beautiful scenery and the Lake was perfect for kayaking
All in all a brilliant day and highly recommended!
Snowdon challenge
From start to finish this was an amazing experience. Chris and Jim our guides for the day were friendly and helpful throughout. Snowdon was a bit of a challenge in the weather conditions and I felt like giving up at one point but persevered with support from everyone. Lovely group of people and a fantastic day outdoors. Inspired me to look for a new adventure, hopefully in more clement weather 😊
Fantastic mini getaway!
The trip was really well organised and Jim & the team were so attentive. The hotel was excellent and had a wide selection for breakfast. Communication ahead of the trip was great so we knew exactly what to expect. We weren't able to make it to the top of Snowdon due to weather conditions but the team made sure we still had a wonderful time. I would highly recommend it!
I couldn't recommend this more!
I couldn't recommend this more! It was a wonderful adventure in Snowden and extremely well-run. Met some great people along the way and am looking forward to joining more trips. Thank you.
I thoroughly enjoyed this experience. The challenge was well organised, the accommodation was good and the leaders were excellent. I will definitely be doing more in the future.
From Start to finish the ease of booking and communication were spot on. The instructors on the day were just the right mix of friendly, informative and professional. The weather was on our side, we were a mixed group of 16, lots of strangers to start with ! But at no time did anyone feel pushed to go too fast, you picked your pace and the instructors supported all the way. There was plenty of opportunity to push your limits of you wanted too as well. Each activity rolled into the next seamlessly. Do your research on where to eat dinner the night before and book it in before you go, the chewy chicken in the hotel is not recommended.
Have just completed the challenge, what a great day! It was a challenge, the hike was hard going in parts but everyone supported each other. The scenery was amazing, unfortunately due to some cloud and rain visibility was poor at the top. The weather was changeable so the kit list was needed and we were thankful for the hat and gloves at the top! Thank you so much to Jim and Chris for helping and supporting us on our adventure. Highly recommend.
Great day, very well organised. Cycling and kayaking kits were all provided and the hike was great with beautiful views.
Really enjoyed the trip. Breakfast at the hotel was lovely. Lunch was lovely. Jim provided great support at each spot and Kat helped motivate and guide us all up the mountain.
Well worth it, the guides were great. Well organised and very enjoyable. Would especially recommend it for solo travellers. If you're the kind of person that hates shopping around, reading reviews and booking stuff it's defo worth the extra money to take away that hassle.
Great trip, would recommend
Fantastic trip! Everything from booking to finishing the challenge was well organised and straightforward. Our local guides were brilliant - friendly, knowledgeable and great fun! Would highly recommend taking on the Snowdon challenge!
Really friendly, well organised trip. I had an amazing day!
Great experience
A challenging but terrific experience! Would definitely recommend to others and would use this company again for booking other experiences
We wanted an experience that was challenging and fun and this proved to be both. Abbey and Jim were great - organised and professional but also very warm and personable. We had a lovely group on the day, easygoing to chat to whilst heading up Snowdon in the wet conditions. Found it to be the right level of challenge, we needed to put fair bit of effort in but could still enjoy all the activities and felt tired in a good way afterwards. All in all a great day, thank you.
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 29kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
- A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Sure. You can leave anything you don't need on the Challenge at the hotel.
Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.
Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.
We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
Interested in a more exclusive experience? Opt for a 'Private Group' through the dates and prices tab to book this adventure for just you and your chosen companions.
Our team of Adventure Hunters create exclusive adventures with highly vetted, specialist hosts. We only work with independent, local in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
Got questions? We've got answers
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DEPARTURE DATES
Saturday • 10th August 2024
to Sunday • 11th August 2024
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Saturday • 24th August 2024
to Sunday • 25th August 2024
Saturday • 31st August 2024
to Sunday • 1st September 2024
