Major New Pilgrimage Trail Launches in North West Wales
Tywyn, Gwynedd – A major new pilgrimage trail in North West Wales, Llwybr Cadfan, will be launching on Saturday 28 September in Tywyn, Gwynedd. This 12-day journey offers adventurers and spiritual seekers the opportunity to explore the region’s breathtaking and historically significant landscapes.
The 128 mile (207km) pilgrimage trail is named after the 6th-century Saint Cadfan and will take pilgrims from Tywyn to the sacred Ynys Enlli (Bardsey Island) off the Llŷn Peninsula. This area is known for its spiritual significance and stunning scenery.
The Llwybr Cadfan route includes 17 historic churches and six holy wells, allowing pilgrims to connect with North West Wales’ rich spiritual heritage. The trail winds through areas of outstanding natural beauty and unspoilt coastline in Meirionydd, Eifionydd, and the Llŷn Peninsula.
The launch of Llwybr Cadfan will take place at Saint Cadfan’s Church, Tywyn in Gwynedd – the first church on the pilgrimage trail. The day will begin with an opportunity to walk the first stage of Llwybr Cadfan from Saint Cadfan’s Church to St Mary and St Egryn’s Church, Llanegryn. The day will end with a special service featuring Christian singer Cass Meurig and poets Siân Northey and Siôn Aled.
During the launch day, visitors can learn more about the pilgrimage trail and participate in a bilingual poetry workshop inspired by the landscape of the pilgrimage route. Activities also include a kids pilgrimage stamp workshop, a prayer event, and a mini-pilgrimage to explore the historic Cadfan Stone – a 7th or 8th century stone with a linear Latin cross and the earliest known inscription of the Welsh language.
Archbishop of Wales Andrew John, who will be one of the first pilgrims to walk the first stage of the route, says, “The launch of Llwybr Cadfan marks a new chapter in the ongoing tradition and renewed popularity of pilgrimage in Wales. I am honored to be one of the first pilgrims to walk the first stage of the trail.
“With the success of programmes such as BBC’s Pilgrimage, we have seen more and more people exploring their spirituality by walking ancient pilgrimage routes and visiting churches and holy wells to discover our rich Christian heritage as they seek answers to life’s problems.
“The Llwybr Cadfan pilgrimage is an opportunity for individuals to step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, experience the tranquillity of nature, spend time with God in prayer and reflection, and return home with a renewed sense of peace.
“I hope and pray that many more people will discover or deepen their spirituality as they embark on what can be a life-changing pilgrimage.”
Pilgrims who walk Llwybr Cadfan will journey through ancient oak rainforests, past remote churches, and along expansive beaches, immersing themselves in the natural beauty and spiritual history of the region.
The trail includes historical and religious highlights such as:
– The Two Kings Statue near Harlech Castle, inspired by the tale in the Mabinogi, an anthology of early Welsh folklore compiled in the 12th and 13th centuries.
– Saint Cybi’s Well, believed to hold healing properties with many people traveling long distances to discover its healing waters.
– St Hywyn’s Church, Aberdaron – the final rest stop for pilgrims on the journey to Ynys Enlli. The landscape of this area inspired the poetry of Welsh poet and priest R.S. Thomas.
The pilgrimage route is available now and pilgrims are welcome to begin their journey at any time. Visit https://pererin.com/llwybyr-cadfan/ or download the Outdoor Active app and search for Llwybr Cadfan.
For more information about the Open Day and to sign up for the walk, visit bangor.eglwysyngnghymru.org.uk/. Interviews are available in both Welsh and English. Contact Matt Batten, Director of Communication, at 07586 469 556 or email mattbatten@cinw.org.uk.
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