A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Snowdonia National Park vs. Loch Lomond National Park for Hiking, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Snowdonia National Park and Loch Lomond National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a scenic, rugged, and stunning national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Loch Lomond National Park

Loch Lomond National Park is a peaceful, relaxing, and scenic national park. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Snowdonia National Park and Loch Lomond National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options


Is there more to do in Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Snowdonia National Park. Although Snowdonia National Park and Loch Lomond National Park are both popular with visitors, Snowdonia National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Snowdonia National Park is more touristy than Loch Lomond National Park and is popular for its beautiful mountain landscape. It is also home to Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon). Loch Lomond National Park is popular for becoming the first designated national park in Scotland in 2002.

How is Snowdonia National Park different from Loch Lomond National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Loch Lomond National Park and Snowdonia National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park
Loch Lomond National Park

Snowdonia National Park is adequate for skiing. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Snowdonia National Park for snow skiing. The mountains in the area are a bit rugged and coastal, making them not ideal for skiing. But if the weather's right and you are up for the steep terrain, there may be opportunities to ski at times between the months of November and April.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a skiing destination.


Is the Food Better in Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Snowdonia National Park
Loch Lomond National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a national park with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Snowdonia National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a variety of restaurants in the area that serve up local Welsh flavors. You'll build up your appetite hiking and then head into town to enjoy a quick bite at a cafe or a nice meal at a 5 star hotel.

Loch Lomond National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find some traditional Scottish food to sample but in general for the best food, head to one of the nicer hotels in the area.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park
Loch Lomond National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a national park with good options for the beach. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Snowdonia National Park. The white sandy beaches offer spectacular views of the mountains. There are holiday cottages near the beaches that make it a nice vacation spot between the months of September and April. Several of the best beaches in the area include Porthdinllaen, Porth O'er, Llanbedrog, and Harlech Beach.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park Better for Hiking?

Snowdonia National Park
Loch Lomond National Park

Snowdonia National Park is an amazing national park to visit for hiking. Also, Loch Lomond National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for the nearby hiking options.

Around Snowdonia National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are approximately 1,500 miles of walking paths and hiking trails in the area. You can hike to waterfalls, along beaches, or to the top of Mt. Snowden. Aber Falls is a popular trail or you could explore lakes and try to see wild ponies along the Llyn Idwal Trail. For a particularly strenuous and adventurous trail, head to Glyder Fawr or The Snowdon Horseshoe Circular Walk.

Loch Lomond National Park offers some nice hiking trails. You can choose from relaxing walks or more strenuous hikes and options run along the shoreline or into the surrounding hills and forests. Some of the more popular hikes in the area include Ben Lomond, Conic Hill, and Callander Crags.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park Better for Families?

Snowdonia National Park
Loch Lomond National Park

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park.

Snowdonia National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. Kids will enjoy exploring the outdoors. You can also check out Conwy Castle or wander the medieval walls around Conwy. If you're interested in taking a walk, you wander along Newborough Beach or head to the top of Mount Snowdon and enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery. Llechwedd Slate Caverns is also particularly fun for kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Loch Lomond National Park. You'll find a wide range of diverse activities for kids around the park. They can explore the maze at the Lodge Forest Visitor Center, get up close with animals at Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, or Loch Lomond Pony Trekking, or have an adventure at Doune Castle. Other highlights for the kids include Wellsfield Farm and the Maid of the Loch Paddle Steamer.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park Better for Couples?

Snowdonia National Park
Loch Lomond National Park

Snowdonia National Park is an amazing national park to visit for couples. Also, Loch Lomond National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for romance.

Snowdonia National Park is a great national park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Explore the beautiful outdoor scenery by taking one of the many hikes in the park. There are many diverse walking routes or you can head to the top of Mt. Snowden. There are also waterfalls and castles that couples can explore.

Loch Lomond National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many waterfront accommodation options that make for a beautiful and peaceful couples retreat. The nature and serenity is perfect for couples who want to get away from it all.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Snowdonia National Park
Loch Lomond National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a great national park for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Loch Lomond National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Snowdonia National Park. Camping and hiking is the best way to experience this park. You can explore the stunning natural beauty without spending a fortune on a hotel.

Plenty of backpackers visit Loch Lomond National Park. There are some camping options available for backpackers and those who want to experience nature in its fullest.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Snowdonia National Park
Loch Lomond National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a national park with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not known for its public transit.

While Snowdonia National Park offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. During the peak season you can travel to some areas by bus. Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus operates in part of the park. Train options include The Cambrian and Conwy Valley train lines as well as the Welsh Highland Railway and the Ffestiniog Railway.

Public transit is generally limited in Loch Lomond National Park. You can reach the park by train, but transportation option within the area are generally limited.

For even more information, also check out Is Snowdonia National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Loch Lomond National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Loch Lomond National Park or Snowdonia National Park?

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Snowdonia National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Snowdonia National Park, and 2-4 days is enough time in Loch Lomond National Park.

Families should spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than Loch Lomond National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Snowdonia National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than Loch Lomond National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Snowdonia National Park that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than Loch Lomond National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Snowdonia National Park.


  • How many days in Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Snowdonia National Park 3-7 
    Loch Lomond National Park 2-4

One day in Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the stunning national park of Snowdonia National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find around the scenic national park of Loch Lomond National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Snowdonia National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the hiking. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Loch Lomond National Park is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


Five days in Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park?

Snowdonia National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Loch Lomond National Park is a great place to explore. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

A week in Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park?

Snowdonia National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Most people visit for the hiking. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Loch Lomond National Park. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Loch Lomond National Park or Snowdonia National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Snowdonia National Park is £75, while the average daily cost in Loch Lomond National Park is £61. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Snowdonia National Park and Loch Lomond National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Snowdonia National Park £29
    Loch Lomond National Park £31
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Snowdonia National Park £58
    Loch Lomond National Park £62
Compare Hotels in Snowdonia National Park and Loch Lomond National Park

Looking for a hotel in Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Snowdonia National Park


Hotels in Loch Lomond National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £46
    Loch Lomond National Park £20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Snowdonia National Park

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Snowdonia National Park:

  • Private Transfer from Caernarfon to Manchester Airport (MAN): $250

Is it cheaper to fly into Snowdonia National Park or Loch Lomond National Park?

Prices for flights to both Loch Lomond National Park and Snowdonia National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Snowdonia National Park £19
    Loch Lomond National Park £15

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £18
    Loch Lomond National Park £16

Tours and Activities in Snowdonia National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Snowdonia National Park are as follows:

  • 2 Hours Historical Tour of Caernarfon: $33
  • Anglesey Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • Snowdon Kayak Adventure on Llyn Padarn: $56

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Snowdonia National Park £4.86
    Loch Lomond National Park £3.93


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Snowdonia National Park and Loch Lomond National Park, we can see that Snowdonia National Park is more expensive. And not only is Loch Lomond National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Loch Lomond National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Loch Lomond National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Snowdonia National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Snowdonia National Park than you might in Loch Lomond National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Snowdonia National Park Expensive? and Is Loch Lomond National Park Expensive?.


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