Llanberis is one of the most popular mountain tourist centres in the Snowdonia National Park; something of a mecca for walkers and climbers, being the starting point for the ascent of Snowdon – the highest mountain in England and Wales. The ascent can be made either by train via the Snowdon Mountain Railway, or on foot along one of the many routes to the summit. The area is also popular for mountain biking, open water swimming and stand up paddle boarding. Within Llanberis itself there are excellent places to eat and drink and many shopping opportunities. Just 7 miles from Llanberis on the coast is Caernarfon with its castle, town walls and beautiful National Trust properties.