Dolbadarn Castle, Llanberis, Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), Wales

Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) in Wales

If parks could keep birthday diaries, Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) in Wales would have quite the story to tell. The park turns 75 today, marking the anniversary of its designation in 1951. Eryri stretches across 2,130 square kilometres, with nine mountain ranges, 119 kilometres of coastline and habitats ranging from peatlands and native woodlands to upland landscapes. At more than 1,050 metres, Yr Wyddfa is Eryri's highest point. Nearby, the Carneddau and Glyderau add their own peaks, while Cadair Idris rises in the south. These protected landscapes provide habitats for wildlife and include 17 National Nature Reserves and 56 Sites of Special Scientific Interest.

And Eryri's story isn't just about nature. Dolbadarn Castle adds a medieval chapter. Built during the 13th century by Llywelyn the Great, the castle guarded the route through Llanberis Pass and later served as a prison for a Welsh prince. Its round tower, standing 15 metres tall, remains its most recognisable feature, overlooking nearby Llyn Padarn.