Cader or Cadair? Agree to disagree?

23 Feb

Written By Dominic Vacher

Whenever I share an image of Cadair Idris, or should I say Cader Idris, the same thing happens: the name sparks almost as much debate as the mountain inspires awe. Locals, visitors, Welsh speakers, English speakers - everyone has a view, and they’re rarely shy about sharing it.

The debate over the spelling goes back years. In 2016, Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri (Snowdonia National Park) made Cader Idris its official choice, after a period of consultation. The reasoning?

• It reflects local usage and identity

• There’s evidence of “Cader Idris” being used over 500 years ago

• Preserving the area’s literary heritage mattered as much as linguistic accuracy

But not everyone agrees. The Ordnance Survey continues to use Cadair Idris, many maps follow suit, and some signs still do too. For some, “Cadair” better honours the Welsh language and feels more authentic. For others, “Cader” is simply what people have always called it.

In truth, both sides have history and sentiment on their side. The debate isn’t just about spelling, it’s about identity, belonging, and pride in place.

The legend of Cadair Idris:

Whichever way you spell it, the meaning is the same: “Chair of Idris.” Idris was said to be a giant, warrior, and poet, sitting on the mountain to watch the stars and compose his verses. One legend claims that anyone who sleeps on the summit will wake as either a poet or a madman. It’s a story that still draws walkers, dreamers, and adventurers to this dramatic peak.

What matters most

To me, whether you say Cader or Cadair, the mountain itself remains unchanged. It’s beautiful, imposing, and far less crowded than Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). Perhaps the best answer is simply to agree to disagree, and to let the mountain’s magic speak for itself.