Castell y Gwynt facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Castell y Gwynt |
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Castell y Gwynt (in middle-ground) from Glyder Fach summit plateau, with Glyder Fawr behind
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 972 m (3,189 ft) |
| Prominence | 16 m (52 ft) |
| Parent peak | Glyder Fach |
| Listing | Nuttall |
| Naming | |
| English translation | castle of the wind |
| Language of name | Welsh |
| Geography | |
| Location | Snowdonia, Wales |
| Parent range | Glyderau |
| OS grid | SH656583 |
| Topo map | OS Landranger 115 |
Castell y Gwynt is a famous rock formation and a smaller peak located in Snowdonia, a beautiful national park in north-west Wales. Its name means "Castle of the Wind" in Welsh, which perfectly describes its rugged, castle-like appearance. It's not a standalone mountain but rather a part of the larger Glyder Fach mountain.
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What is Castell y Gwynt?
Castell y Gwynt stands out because of its unusual shape. It looks like a collection of jagged towers, almost like a ruined castle. These unique rock formations were created by natural forces over thousands of years. Wind, rain, and ice have slowly shaped the rocks into the amazing structure we see today.
Where is it Located?
Castell y Gwynt is found on the eastern side of Glyder Fach. This mountain is part of the Glyderau mountain range. The Glyderau are known for their rocky, dramatic landscapes. They are a popular spot for hikers and climbers in Snowdonia.
A Special Kind of Peak
Castell y Gwynt is considered a "top" of Glyder Fach. It reaches a height of 972 meters (about 3,189 feet). This makes it a high point, but it's not quite tall enough to be counted as one of the "Welsh 3000s". The Welsh 3000s are a special list of the 15 highest mountains in Wales, all over 3,000 feet tall.
What is a Nuttall?
Castell y Gwynt is listed as a "Nuttall". A Nuttall is a mountain in England or Wales that is at least 2,000 feet (610 meters) high. It must also rise at least 15 meters (49 feet) above the land connecting it to a higher peak. Castell y Gwynt was added to this list after new measurements were taken in 2007. This shows how detailed mountain mapping can be!
Featured in Film
Castell y Gwynt is more famous for its striking appearance than just being a mountain peak. Its unique look has even caught the eye of filmmakers! The "Castle of the Wind" and another nearby rock, the "Cantilever Stone," were featured in the Walt Disney movie Dragonslayer, released in 1981. This fantasy film used the dramatic Welsh landscape to create a magical world.
