Wales
Rhobell Fawr
734M
2408FT
About Rhobell Fawr
An ancient volcano that’s surprisingly quiet these days, Rhobell Fawr offers some of the best views in the Arenig range without the Snowdon-style queues. It’s the perfect spot if you enjoy rugged isolation and questioning your life choices while navigating knee-deep Welsh heather.
Key Statistics
Rank
61st Highest in Wales
Parent Range
Snowdonia
Prominence
?
304m
Nearest Town
Rhydymain
Geology
You are walking over ancient seafloor sediments and volcanic rocks, from hardened lava and shattered fragments to magma that cooled deep underground.
Find It
OS Grid Reference
SH786256
Latitude
52.8142°N
Longitude
3.8027°W
Did You Know?
- •This peak is actually the eroded remains of a major Ordovician volcano, though you’re far more likely to find disgruntled sheep than flowing lava these days.
- •Despite its modest stature, the isolated position provides a staggering 360-degree panorama of North Wales, including a particularly brooding profile of Cadair Idris's north face.
- •Geologists find the site fascinating because it represents a rare example of subaerial volcanic activity, which is basically a fancy way of saying it erupted into the air rather than underwater.
- •The mountain sits in the Arenig range, which is often ignored by hikers heading for the higher peaks of Snowdonia, making it a sanctuary for those who prefer silence over selfie-sticks.
- •The 'distinct path' mentioned in guidebooks is a notorious shapeshifter that has a magical ability to turn into a pathless bog the moment you stop paying attention to your map.