The elusive Infinity Pools have been on the list for a while, bookmarked since lockdown, but it’s one of those spots that you have to make the effort to find it. We’ve driven through Pen y Pass many times, passing with no idea what was hiding just behind the gate. You’d never know it was there unless you’d caught a glimpse on social media. It’s right in the heart of the valley, yet feels a world away.

Parking can be tricky; the lay-bys fill up quickly, but despite the growing noise around the place, we were lucky to visit on a quiet day, away from the crowds, with only the mountain goats as company.

We didn’t duck in for a swim, but that wasn’t the point of the visit. Instead, we pulled up nearby, opened the Stanley flask, found some interesting compositions, and just chilled. The pools, tucked away between the rocks, as expected, were stunning. The quiet of the valley, paired with the motion of the pools, made for a lovely day.

On the hike up to the valley, we kept turning around to catch the golden light hitting the peaks opposite. It’s always preferred when we can just stop and appreciate the surrounding scenes ~ with no crazy itinerary. Outdoors is how we socialise ~ there's something about moments with friends that connects us in ways that sitting inside just can’t rival.

After a while, we packed up and continued the hike, spotting mountain goats along the way. Other than a couple of climbers, we didn’t see a soul ~ just the goats and the snowy peaks. As always, we made sure to Leave No Trace.

On the drive out, past the Pyg track, we stopped for obligatory scenic views of Capel Curig, and our favourite spot to shoot Snowdon from afar. Afterward, we made a stop in Betws-y-Coed for a refuel at a Hangin Pizza, before hitting the A55 and heading home.  There’s something about those post-adventure meals that taste better than anything else, right?

For us, these trips are not about reaching a destination to take “the photograph” and move on, but about the time there and the moments in between. The Infinity Pools are a reminder to relax, solo or with good company, and just be.

~ Type of Walk: Moderate, with some rocky sections and a steady incline.
~ Parking: Lay-bys along the valley, but spaces fill up fast. 53.093180° N, -4.061402° W.
~ Equipment: Sturdy boots, camera for the views, and a good Stanley for tea.
~ Wild Camping: Not permitted, but plenty of idyllic spots nearby to relax.
~ Best Time to Visit: Winter for fewer crowds. Summer for warmer waters.
~ Company: Andy, Tom, & Mountain goats.

Coordinates: 53.089180° N, 4.060531° W

Photography: Scott Woolley. Images captured on Sony A7iii ~ January 2025.