Welsh Folklore, Myths & Legends

Further south, Cadair Idris holds the story of Idris Gawr – a wise giant known for his proficiency in astronomy and poetry. As one of southern Eryri’s tallest mountains, and part of the Welsh Three Peaks, Cadair Idris’ elevation gave the giant the perfect site to study the constellations.

As you climb the rocky pathways which trace the edge of a glacial lake (Llyn Cau), you’ll see the giant’s seat at the precipice. This route also offers far-reaching views over the Mawddach estuary.

The mountain’s name – Cadair Idris – translates in Welsh to ‘Idris’ chair’, enshrining him to memory.

Legend says that anyone who sleeps atop the mountain will be bestowed with the giant’s poetical prowess. The less fortunate, however, are summoned to madness. Luckily, we completed the circular route in a day as part of the Hiking Eyri tour, so there was no need to test our luck. ​

On the south Gower coastline, you’ll find Pennard castle, part of one of my favourite coastal walking routes in Wales. A crumbling Norman watchtower, it’s also the site of all kinds of unusual magical happenings.

The castle succumbed to a huge sandstorm in the 13th or 14th century, which is said to be caused by the Verry Folk or Gower fairies. After their celebrations were disturbed by the castle’s lord, he threatened them with violence.

By day, Pennard Castle offers stunning views towards Three Cliffs Bay, famous for its three limestone cliffs, sand dunes and stepping stones – a must-visit spot on the Gower Peninsula.

However, by night, only the brave visit as the site becomes all the more sinister. According to local folklore, the Gwrach-y-rhibyn appears under the cover of darkness – the spirit of a flying, crow-like witch. For anyone who dares to sleep within the castle walls at night, she will pounce upon them and strike them with a curse.

Pembrokeshire is also the birthplace of Wales’ patron saint, St David, after whom the smallest city in England and Wales is named. A walk around its streets will allow you to enjoy a tour of the Bishops Palace and St David’s Cathedral – a site of pilgrimage for many centuries.

Just outside the city, overlooking the Pembrokeshire coastline (and part of a spectacular walking route covered in Wilderness England’s Highlights of Wales tour), is St Non’s chapel, where St David was born under supernatural circumstances.

Stories say that St David was the son of St Non and King Sant of Ceredigion, and he was born on a dark and stormy day. As his mother brought him into the world, a bright light pierced the stormy skies, and a calmness fell upon the land. At his exact birthplace, a healing spring appeared. These waters still flow, and the chapel still stands, making it a site of pilgrimage in its own right.