Exploring the Scenic Drive from Barmouth to Caernarfon
If you're planning a trip to Wales and are looking for a scenic drive that takes you through the heart of Snowdonia National Park, then you can't go wrong with the journey from Barmouth to Caernarfon. Not only is the drive absolutely breathtaking, but it also gives you a chance to explore some of the charming villages along the way. However, before you hit the road, it's important to know how long the drive will take and which route you should take.
The Fastest and Slowest Routes
The distance from Barmouth to Caernarfon is roughly 22 miles, which translates to around a 45-minute drive. However, the actual time it takes to complete the journey can vary depending on the route that you take.
If you take the A496 and A487 route, you will be taking the fastest route. The drive should take you around 50 minutes, assuming there's no traffic. However, if you decide to take the rural route through the Snowdonia National Park, the drive time can stretch to over an hour. Keep in mind that while the scenic route is incredibly stunning, it is a single-lane road with multiple twists and turns which can slow down your driving time.
Driving Time Based on Traffic Patterns
Like any drive, your travelling time from Barmouth to Caernarfon is affected by the traffic patterns. On average, the journey can take around 45 minutes, but during peak times, the journey may take longer. If you're travelling during the summer months, weekends, or public holidays, expect the roads to be more crowded which will slow down your journey. On the other hand, if you're travelling during weekdays and in the morning or early evening hours, you can expect a smooth ride with minimal traffic.
Drive time Calculation
To give you an idea of the drive time you can expect, I've calculated the journey times for both the fast and scenic routes during peak and low traffic times:
Fast Route
- Peak Traffic Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Low Traffic Time: 45 minutes
Scenic Route
- Peak Traffic Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Low Traffic Time: 1 hour
Final Words
There's no doubt that the journey from Barmouth to Caernarfon is one of the most scenic drives in the country, but it's important to plan your journey properly. The fast route is your best bet if you're short of time, but if you want to soak in the stunning landscapes, take the scenic route. Regardless of which route you choose, take your time and enjoy the journey. Safe travels!