Snowdonia National Park boasts some of the biggest mountains found anywhere in England and Wales, whilst the area also offers visitors the most amazing coastline, rich in sandy beaches, spectacular cliffs and some glorious stretches of estuary. These include the Llŷn Peninsula, a dramatically beautiful 24-mile long strip of land which points out into the Irish Sea and also known as ‘Snowdon’s arm’.
Things to do in Snowdonia and the North
The Llŷn Coastal Path links miles of fine beaches, sheltered coves, wide open bays and towering headlands, officially designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty. Walkers and nature lovers are spoilt for choice. Bardsey Island is a wildlife haven and a National Nature Reserve designated by the Countryside Council for Wales. Meanwhile, the Pilgrim’s Route guides historically-focused visitors through this well-known stronghold of Welsh language, culture and religious heritage.
Top Destinations
Criccieth – A most charming seaside town, Criccieth retains its strong Victorian character, blending the best of local landmarks with amazing views across Cardigan Bay. First begun in 1230, Criccieth Castle still dominates the town, standing high on a rocky perch, and acting as a striking marker, dividing the two local beaches. As with many other remote seaside towns, Criccieth only enjoyed a rise in its prominence as a coastal resort when trains - in the form of the Cambrian Coast Railway - first arrived there in 1867.
Betws-y-Coed – Perhaps the most popular inland resort in North Wales, this is where the River Conwy meets its three tributaries, the Lledr, the Llygwy and the Machno. Outdoor activity holidays and local crafts make this pretty village a popular centre for visitors; artists have flocked to the area since the Victorian era, and the nearby Swallow Falls, surrounded by dense woodland, magnificent mountain scenery and ancient bridges, make it a particularly ideal location for visiting painters who are interested in capturing the local beauty of this fine natural landscape.
Conwy – With its amazing dark-stoned fortress castle still evoking an authentic mediaeval atmosphere, Conwy demands the attention of visitors from the moment they catch a glimpse of the skyline. Conwy Castle is seen by many as the most magnificent of all Edward I’s Welsh fortress. Situated high on a natural rock above the Conwy Estuary, the Castle builders adopted a simple design, having no need for concentric walls, with its soaring curtain walls and huge round towers making the castle an intimidating presence even in the 21st century. In addition to the castle, Conwy benefits from being a classic walled town, with the circuit of enclosing walls stretching over three quarters of a mile, guarded by 22 towns.
Anglesey – Often referred to as the garden of Wales, due to its fine, agriculturally-rich land, Anglesey has a spectacular coastline as well as an intriguing number of cycle paths and walking routes; the new Copper Trail, or Lôn Las Copr , is part of the National Cycling Network, and runs for 36-miles as a circular tour based around the historic port of Amlwch. In addition to these designated paths, almost the whole of Anglesey can be explored via a network of traffic-free trails and quiet country lanes.
Holy Island– Although joined to the rest of Anglesey by both rail and road bridges, Holy Island is an island in its own right. The historic port town of Holyhead is Anglesey’s largest town, as well as being the busiest ferry port in the Principality. St Cybi’s Church and the Roman Fort are particular highlights for visitors, in addition to the fine Maritime Museum, the Breakwater Country Park and the Ucheldre Art Centre.
Caernarfon– On the east banks - and southern end - of the Menai Straits, opposite the Isle of Anglesey, this Royal town also boasts one of the most architecturally impressive of all the castles in Wales, and although it was never intended to be as overtly powerful a symbol as some of the other fortifications built by Edward I, it was always viewed as a seat of power and a symbol of English dominance over the Welsh.
Portmadog – Known locally as ‘Port’, and to the English as Portmadoc, this small coastal town first developed as a port exporting slate to England. Built across the Glaslyn estuary, the Cob is a substantial embankment created in 1811 to reclaim land for agriculture; by 1836 the Ffestiniog Railway had adopted the embankment as part of its course, making it the main route for slate to reach the new port at Porthmadog.
Blaenau Ffestiniog – Situated in an elevated natural ‘bowl’ between the Manod and Moelwyn Mountains of Snowdonia, at the centre of the Snowdonia National Park, the town was once a centre of the Welsh slate mining industry, although tourism is now its main focus. Two quarries offer trips into the massive underground caverns that were originally carved by the slate workers, and visitors also flock to the area to take part in a wide variety of outdoor pursuits, including mountain biking, climbing, walking and canoeing.
Colwyn Bay – With a long promenade sweeping from Old Colwyn to Penrhyn Bay, walkers and cyclists can easily enjoy the beautiful unspoilt coastline of Colwyn Bay, making it a particularly good resort for family holidays. Lovers of fishing, sailing and jet skiing are also catered for, with separate slipways located along the promenade offering easy access to the coast.
Llandudno– The largest resort in Wales is uniquely situated between the Great and Little Ormes, and still retains its Victorian and Edwardian elegance, whilst fully celebrating all the modern attractions it also has to offer. A 300-metre dry ski slope and toboggan run gives the town a national significance, with the Artificial Ski Championships hosted in Llandudno each year. For the less energetic, a cabin lift runs from the ornamental gardens known as the Happy Valley, and is the longest life of its kind in Great Britain.
Something for everyone Ideal touring baseA family run complex set on a working farm less than 2 miles away from the centre of Caernarfon. Parciau Farm Cottages were formerly barns, and now converted to form a row of ...
This semi-detached holiday property has an open plan living area downstairs and makes a great place to stay and explore the sounds and sights of the Victorian seaside resort of Llandudno. Frankcot is within walking ...
The Barn, Gwyddelwern near Corwen, Denbighshire, Corwen and the Berwyn Mountains, North Wales Borders
What a view! This delightful stone built barn conversion is situated next to the owners’ home and has splendid views out over the village of Gwyddelwern and the surrounding countryside from the living room and patio ...
Enjoying a glorious, secluded setting 4 miles from the coast on the edge of the Snowdonia National Park, this charming, cosily heated holiday cottage has views to the rear over the lovely Conwy Valley. It has its own patio ...
Oak House, near Llanrhaeadr, North Wales Borders, Mold and the Clwydian Range
This stunning detached property, with the owners adjacent, commands breathtaking views out over the valley towards Moel Famau and the Clwydian Range. With a Juliet balcony opening off the first floor living room, it is an ...
Ysgoldy, Dolwyddelan, near Betws-y-Coed, County Conwy, Dolwyddelan and Penmachno
Pretty rural locationThis pretty 19th-century, semi-detached roadside cottage stands in the Lledr Valley in Dolwyddelan, at the heart of the Snowdonia National Park, only 5 miles from the lovely village of Betws-y-Coed. ...
Gwalia Cottage, 5 Upper Llwynygell, Rhiwbryfdir, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Gwynedd
Welcome to Gwalia Cottage! A cosy 19th Century quarry man's cottage set in the heart of Snowdonia. Situated just outside the famous slate town of Blaenau Ffestiniog and within walking distance of Zip World and Bounce ...
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2 Ty Uchaf, Clynnog Fawr, near Caernarfon, Gwynedd, Criccieth
In a wonderful position, just ½ mile from the coast, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and on the fringes of the Snowdonia National Park. This traditional mid-terraced cottage, dating back to the 1850s, is ...
This delightful terraced holiday property sits in an elevated position and has splendid views over the Conwy Estuary to the mountains of Snowdonia beyond. There’s a pleasant rear courtyard garden – perfect for dining ...
Mountain viewsThis well-maintained and delightfully renovated property retains its original character, combined with modern fixtures and fittings. With mountain views from the mid terraced holiday cottage, this is ideal ...
Acorns, Dolphin, near Holywell, North Wales Borders, Mold and the Clwydian Range
Acorns is a beautifully appointed ground floor apartment set in a quiet location, which offers a superb large covered decked area with a hot tub. There is a delightful private garden with a series of waterfalls ending in a ...
This cosy terraced holiday cottage sits in the village of Tanygrisiau, just 1 mile from the former slate capital of the world, Blaenau Ffestiniog, in the heart of the Snowdonia National Park. Adjacent to the owner’s ...
Arddwyn, Penrhyndeudraeth, near Porthmadog, Gwynedd
This beautifully furnished detached cottage is just brimming with charm and character, from its traditional beams to its fabulous wood burner. The cottage has lovely open-plan living areas and is perfect for a couple or a ...
Ashover, Towyn, near Rhyl, County Conwy, Colwyn Bay
These two properties, Ashover (ref UK6663) sleeping four, and Ashover Lodge (ref UK6664) sleeping two, are in a perfect location for enjoying all the thrills of this seaside town. These properties are situated just a short ...
This delightful bungalow is situated on the Cambrian Coast in the village of Talybont, just north of Barmouth and only half a mile from the sandy beach. There’s a lovely rear garden and conservatory to relax in with a ...
Wonderful viewsThis single storey barn conversion (formerly known as No.2 Benar) is one of three in a hillside location in the Snowdonia National Park. It has unique furniture and fittings which were made for the cottage. ...
This delightful, single-storey holiday cottage (formerly known as Benar Cottage) is one of three, perched in a hillside location with lovely views overlooking the Machno Valley. Perfect for birdwatchers and outdoor ...
This single storey holiday cottage (formerly known as Benar Cottage) is one of three in a hillside location in the Snowdonia National Park. With wonderful views of the valley the property can be best described as in the ...
Enjoying a beautiful rural setting on the spectacular Llŷn Peninsula, renowned for its superb unspoilt scenery, excellent beaches, walking, cycling and water sports, this charming semi-detached cottage nestles besides the ...
Something for everyone Ideal touring baseA family run complex set on a working farm less than 2 miles away from the centre of Caernarfon. Parciau Farm Cottages were formerly barns, and now converted to form a row of ...
Bod Owain, Dolwyddelan, near Betws-y-Coed, County Conwy, Dolwyddelan and Penmachno
Excellent walking areaCentrally situated close to Betws-y-Coed, the gateway to the Snowdonia National Park. This delightful holiday property is in the village of Dolwyddelan, with a well stocked shop, pub, historic ...
Only 1 mile from the beachThese comfortable and well appointed converted farm buildings are adjacent to the owner’s residence on a working farm. Semi-detached Bodwi Isaf and detached Bodwi Bach offer a good holiday base ...
Only 1 mile from the beachThese comfortable and well appointed converted farm buildings are adjacent to the owner’s residence on a working farm. Semi-detached Bodwi Isaf and detached Bodwi Bach offer a good holiday base ...
Bron Elan, Dolwyddelan, near Betws-y-Coed, County Conwy, Dolwyddelan and Penmachno
This delightful, character, end terraced, holiday cottage is in the pretty village of Dolwyddelan in the Snowdonia National Park. It retains its original charm with inglenook fireplace, wood burner and exposed beams, and ...
Bron Gybi is situated in a perfect rural location on the edge of the small village of Llangybi and within easy reach of the lovely beaches of the Llyn Peninsula. This semi-detached cottage is homely and comfortable and is ...
Bryn Aled, Bontnewydd, near Dolgellau, Gwynedd, Dolgellau and Coed y Brenin Forest Park
With a relaxing hot tub on the patio, this gorgeous detached holiday property, adjacent to the owners’ home, has been finished to an excellent standard. There is an open plan living area downstairs, complete with a ...
Bryn Bach, Brynrefail, near Llanberis , Gwynedd, Caernarfon
Nestled in a fabulous location at the end of a no through lane, this charming, end of terrace cottage offering cosy accommodation, is brimming with character and has been tastefully furnished whilst retaining many original ...
Bryn Gefeiliau, Capel Curig, near Betws-y-Coed, County Conwy, Betws-Y-Coed
Walker’s paradiseThis cosy single storey semi-detached barn conversion is situated amidst lovely countryside between famous Betws-y-Coed and Capel Curig. Enjoy scenic walks on the hills of this large working sheep farm ...
Ground floor: 2 bedrooms: 1 double (5ft), 1 twin with en-suite shower room and toilet. Bathroom with shower over bath and toilet. First floor: Living/dining area/kitchen. ...
Bryn Rhos Goch, Cwm Penmachno, near Betws-y-Coed, County Conwy, Dolwyddelan and Penmachno
Nestled in the heart of the Snowdonia National Park, this characterful and quirky, terraced Welsh cottage is situated in the quiet village of Cwm Penmachno. It has a cosy wood burner to keep you warm on the coldest of ...
Bryn Rodyn, Graigfechan, near Ruthin, North Wales Borders, Mold and the Clwydian Range
Enjoying an elevated position with stunning views over the surrounding countryside and surrounded by pretty terraced gardens, Bryn Rodyn is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whilst the detached property enjoys a quiet ...
Bryn Ysgol, Ysbyty Ifan, near Betws-y-Coed, County Conwy, Betws-Y-Coed
Originally built as an almshouse in the 19th century, this delightful, terraced, Grade II listed holiday property has been skilfully converted into a bright and welcoming cottage for three people. There is a warming ...
Bwthyn Bwlch, Prion, near Denbigh, North Wales Borders, Corwen and the Berwyn Mountains
Situated on the owner’s smallholding, Bwthyn Bwlch was formerly the dairy to the farm. This detached holiday property has been beautifully converted with a vaulted living room with leather sofas and a cosy wood burner, ...
Bwthyn Clyd, Llangollen, near Wrexham, North Wales Borders
Bwthyn Clyd is one of six semi-detached barn conversions at the former Bryn Dethol Farm overlooking the Vale of Llangollen Golf Course. Llangollen is just 2 miles away and has a range of pubs and restaurants. Stroll ...
3 miles to sandy beachThis single storey detached converted barn is in the ideal location for a holiday on a working dairy farm, enjoying its own enclosed lawned garden. It is surrounded by countryside and it ...
Cae'r Elen, Dolwyddelan, near Betws-y-Coed, County Conwy, Dolwyddelan and Penmachno
15 steps down to entrance. Ground floor: Living room. Dining area/kitchen. Sun lounge. First floor: 2 bedrooms: 1 double, 1 single with additional pull-out single. Bathroom with shower over bath and toilet. ...
Ground floor: Living room. Dining room with slate floor. Kitchen. Bathroom with shower over bath and toilet. Steep, narrow stairs to first floor: 2 bedrooms: 1 double, 1 twin. Beams throughout. ...
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