Wales
Pen-aran
840M
2756FT
About Pen-aran
Situated on the rugged high ridge of the Arans in North Wales, this 840-metre peak offers a wilder, quieter experience than its more famous neighbours. The terrain is a mix of wind-swept grass and rocky outcrops, overlooking the dramatic glacial cirque of Creiglyn Dyfi and the range’s steep eastern crags.
Key Statistics
Rank
27th Highest in Wales
Parent Range
Snowdonia
Prominence
?
9m
Nearest Town
Gwynedd
Geology
You are walking across a foundation of volcanic ash and fine-grained siltstone. These layers form the rugged core of this fell.
Classifications
Find It
Latitude
52.8080°N
Longitude
3.6793°W
Did You Know?
- •The name derives from the Welsh 'pen' (meaning head or top) and 'Aran'. While the exact root of Aran is ancient and potentially pre-Celtic, it is a term found across Wales and Ireland used to denote high, prominent landforms.
- •It occupies a dramatic position on the high-level ridge between the two primary summits of the range, Aran Fawddwy and Aran Benllyn, with the ground dropping away sharply to the east into Cwm Lliw.
- •The summit provides a direct view down to Creiglyn Dyfi, a dark mountain tarn that serves as the source of the River Dyfi, while the distant profile of Cadair Idris is visible to the west across the Wnion valley.
- •The ground underfoot is a classic example of Welsh upland peat; the stretch leading toward the main summit is known for its 'hags,' which create a natural obstacle course of deep bog after heavy rain.