Ffestiniog Railway, Wales

It's something of a trip back into time. The Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways feature restored railroad lines mostly through Snowdonia National Park in Wales. The Festiniog goes for about 13 miles from Porthmadog to the mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog (good luck), with stops along the way.

The Ferstiniog Railway Company owns it, and yes, the firm is missing an F at the start. This is the oldest surviving railway company in the world, although it's not the oldest working railway - that belongs to a line in Leeds. This was founded in 1832. While many British railways were merged in 1948, this one stayed independent. The Festiniog was left out, although it really preferred to be included.

This is a nice throwback to the days when mining was a very crucial part of the economy, and the railroad was a very crucial part of mining. The railway has been restored, and has become one of the big tourist attractions of the region. The railroad cruises through the hilly region, with some very nice views of the valleys and mountains of the region. 

Our one-way trip started with a cute gift shop in Porthmadog, and ended by the Tanygrisiau (more good luck needed) Reservoir, where we had a nice lunch. By the way, there's a nice war memorial on the side of the tracks that looks nicely done. 

All aboard!