Snowdonia tourism

Eryri | Snowdonia Mynyddoedd a Môr Mountains and Coast

CAMBRIAN COASTLINE | LLYˆN PENINSULA | SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK

2014

GET GOING Barmouth

We’re famous for quite a few things.

Mountains, obviously. Not forgetting our 200 miles of coastline.

But it’s the sheer variety of holiday and short break experiences in Snowdonia Mountains and Coast that surprises. Even better, they’re all within easy travelling distance of each other.

You can get active in so many ways.

Ride some of the best mountain biking trails on the planet. Enjoy world-class walking on the Wales Coast Path. Take a 100mph zip wire ride or scale a waterfall (which happens to be underground for added excitement). Then have a bit of a breather and catch the waves on a Blue Flag beach.

You won’t be short of places to visit either. Our mountain villages and towns aren’t just pretty to look at.

Places like Llanberis are packed with attractions, and Betws-y-Coed is great for shopping as well as sightseeing.

Camera-friendly harbours and resorts are strung out along the coast.

Take a boat trip (look out for dolphins).

Published by: Tourism, Marketing and Customer Care Service, Economy and Community Department, Cyngor Gwynedd Council, County Offices, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 1SH. Copyright © 2014.

T: 01286 679217, email: tourism@gwynedd.gov.uk Cyngor Bwrdeistref Sirol Conwy County Borough Council.

Editorial written by Writerog Ltd (Roger Thomas Freelance Services).

Make a sandcastle (next to the real thing on Harlech). Collect shells (on Shell Island, where else?). Then jump on a narrow-gauge railway and head into the hills for the afternoon.

Wherever you go, you’ll find quality too, so it’s little wonder that we have so many satisfied customers who return again and again.

Roger T homas

Editor

Snowdonia Mountains and Coast is more than it might seem. First impressions turn into all kinds of reasons to visit. Flip through these pages and you’ll see what we mean.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION AND KEEP IN TOUCH Keep up to date with what’s happening and what’s new by joining us on our social networks. Don’t forget, it’s a twoway process. Let us know what you think, and share your thoughts, images and videos with others.

www.facebook.com/visitingsnowdonia www.twitter.com/visit_snowdonia www.youtube.com/VisitSnowdonia www.flickr.com/visit_snowdonia www.visitsnowdonia.wordpress.com www.pinterest.com/visitsnowdonia Or if you prefer to pick up the phone, call our Tourist Information Centres.

WWW.VISITSNOWDONIA.INFO

Snowdonia

See back cover for contact details

Mountains and Coast Designed and produced by Gill Advertising.

Printed by The Artisan Press Ltd Photographs: Alan Dop Photography; © Conwy County Borough Council; © Crown Copyright (2014) Visit Wales; © Cyngor Gwynedd Council; ; © Kiran Ridley Photography; © Malcolm Hanks Photography; © PM Photography; © Turtle Photography; © Visit Britain.

Cover: Dyffryn Nantlle from Drws y Coed Pass

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy in this publication, the publishers can accept no liability whatsoever for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions, or for any matter in any way connected with or arising out of the publication of the information. Please check all prices and facilities before making your booking.

When you’ve finished with the guide please forward to a friend or place in a suitable recycling container.

Y Cynnwys

1

HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL FIND INSIDE: 02 Snowdonia National Park 16 It’s big and beautiful. But did you know it’s not just about mountains?

04

Resorts, beaches and coastline

Paths beside the sea and alongside lakes. Paths for everyone.

18

Almost 200 miles of seashore, with squeaky clean sand and salty harbours.

06

08 Food and local produce

32

Shopping and crafts Snowdonia is an inspiring place to be (ask any craftsperson).

The shopping’s something special too.

12

Festivals and events We’re busy throughout the year with food fairs, folk festivals and sporting events.

Race the Train anyone?

Find out why we don’t believe in food miles (or food that’s fast).

10

Attractions and places to visit All that scenery – and attractions too. Family fun parks, little railways, castles, underground adventures and boat trips.

Culture and heritage Language, music, people, places and castles – lots of them.

Walking and the Wales Coast Path

34

Towns and villages Where to go and what to see in our six areas. (*see below ‘Splitting Snowdonia Mountains and Coast into six’)

46

Accommodation listing You’ll find your perfect place to stay here. (*see below ‘Splitting Snowdonia Mountains and Coast into six’)

72

Wales’s holiday areas A brief guide to other parts of Wales.

73

Travel information We’re easy to get to – and easy to explore when you arrive.

74 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast map

Pinpoint the places that interest you.

75 Making the grade A guide to accommodation quality assurance.

Back cover Tourist Information Centres For local information on places to visit, events, travel and accommodation booking.

Activities and things to do We cover the activities alphabet, from abseiling to zip-wire riding.

SPLITTING SNOWDONIA MOUNTAINS AND COAST INTO SIX To help pinpoint the part of Snowdonia Mountains and Coast you’re interested in we’ve split it into six areas. In Around and About (pages 34–45) we describe each area separately. This is followed by the Accommodation Listing (pages 46–71), presented as follows:

46 Cricieth, Porthmadog and the Vale of Ffestiniog 51 Cardigan Bay 55 Southern Snowdonia 58 Conwy Valley and Hiraethog 63 Bangor, Caernarfon, Llanberis and the Villages of Snowdonia 67 Llyˆn Peninsula

In the listings, each area has been colour coded and each advertisement has a grid reference which locates it on the map on page 74. The pull-out section at the back of this publication will assist you with your selection process.

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

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Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

SUMMIT SPECIAL

Snow Sn wd do on su summ mmit itt

The Snowdonia National Park likes to live the high life. It’s home to the loftiest mountain in Wales and England – Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa in Welsh) – along with another 14 big peaks over 3,000ft. Keep counting, for Snowdonia has a dizzying 90 summits in total.

But the mountainous heart of Southern Britain isn’t just about high places. There are sheltered valleys too, like the lovely Vale of Ffestiniog thick with ancient oakwoods.

And you really should make an effort to discover the farmlands of the unexplored Dysynni Valley, its green finger leading from the sea to Bird Rock, a former sea-cliff now marooned inland but still used as a nesting ground by seabirds.

and cosy, cwtchy hidden corners (you’ll understand what we’re getting at if you know a little Welsh).

Quality + quantity.

That’s the thing about North-west Wales. It bundles together such a diverse range of landscapes and seascapes, classic rocky mountains

Bird Bi d Roc Ro k, k, Dys ysyn y nii Vallle yn ley

Bird Rock is one of countless special places. Some, like the Llanberis Pass, are well known. The boulder-strewn pass was famously used as a stomping ground by the team that first conquered Mount Everest (take a peek inside Pen-y-Gwryd Hotel to see expedition memorabilia).

But did you know that the National Park also embraces the wild heather moors of a secret place called the Migneint above Blaenau Ffestiniog? Or that Southern Britain’s last true wildernesses, the untrodden mountains of the Rhinogydd, are to be found here? Or that the National Park’s boundaries stretch south from Snowdon all the way to the doorstep of Machynlleth in Mid Wales, taking in mist-shrouded Cader Idris, the legendary ‘Chair of Idris’, where after a night you awake either a madman or poet – or maybe not at all?

Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri

Coasting along. The biggest surprise of all comes beside the sea. The National Park has mile after mile of sublime coastline where mountains meet sea in a memorable encounter – especially at places like magical Shell Island (guess what it’s famous for?), the vast beach at Harlech and a string of beautiful estuaries along the Cambrian Coast.

Talking of water...

There’s plenty more of the wet stuff in rivers, lakes and waterfalls. Bala’s Llyn Tegid is Wales’s largest natural lake, nearly five miles long. And if there’s a lovelier lake than Llyn Gwynant, scooped out below Snowdon’s foothills, we’d like to know.

Green for go.

Snowdonia helps you to go the green way. Who needs a car when the hop-on, hop-off Snowdon Sherpa bus service runs on a properly joinedup network tailor-made for walkers and sightseers? For railway fans there’s the scenic Cambrian Coast line. Get off at one of the many Cambrian Trailways along the way for a self-guided walk. All details are on the Cambrian Lines website.

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SNOWDONIA: YOUR ONE-MINUTE GUIDE It’s a fact. The Snowdonia National Park covers a whopping 823 square miles. It’s the largest National Park in Wales and thirdlargest in the UK. And don’t forget – even though we’re concentrating on the Park on these two pages, Snowdonia Mountains and Coast also includes the Llyˆn Peninsula, another protected area because of its ‘outstanding natural beauty’.

Must do.

Walk – or take the train – to the top of Snowdon. You’re 3,560ft up, so amazing views are guaranteed (weather permitting, of course). It’s high and wild, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy a nice cuppa in the café, courtesy of Hafod Eryri visitor centre, the stunning ‘window on the world’.

Caano Cano olf lfan fan nO Ogw gwen gw en,, th en t e neew ga gate teeway tewa waay buuilildi ding di ngg

Cwm here.

At Nant Ffrancon, call into the innovative new gateway building to Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve and the Ogwen Valley, which contains interactive interpretation of its special surroundings

Stay safe.

Mountains are great to look at – but they can be dangerous places. For safety advice on the move visit www.nwmra.org or download the latest app.

Hafod Eryri, Sno nowd wdon on n

Joined-up villages. Walking is what Cam Ca mb brriian an coaast stli tline lliinee

Ben Fogle’s Great Escape ‘When I’m in need of a challenging climb I head for the rugged peaks of Snowdonia. The classic walks of the Snowdon massif or the Carneddau are among my favourites, but I’m drawn to quieter hills such as the Rhinogydd when I need some time out.’

we do. You’ll find trails old and new, miners’ paths, drovers’ routes and fresh tracks like the recently opened 4½-mile route between Beddgelert and Rhyd-Ddu. Be amongst the first to walk it (you can catch the Snowdon Sherpa bus or Welsh Highland Railway back). It’s multi-purpose too, open to cyclists and horse riders.

Appiness.

The ‘Enjoy Snowdonia’ app is your mobile guide to the National Park, with maps, walks, places to visit and tourist information. There’s also a Snowdonia/Eryri e-magazine you can download. www.eryri-npa.gov.uk

Follow the sign of the buzzard.

The Taith Ardudwy Way, a 24-mile waymarked path between Barmouth and Llandecwyn, runs across the Harlech Dome. You’ll have some of the oldest, toughest rocks in Wales beneath your feet, and fabulous sea and mountain views to feast the eyes.

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

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Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

ON THE BEACH

One minute you’re up, up and away in the mountains. The next, you’re on the beach. It’s no exaggeration to say that this is a part of the world you can be on top of in the morning (Snowdon), and have Saharan quantities of sand beneath your feet in the afternoon (at Harlech or Black Rock Sands, Morfa Bychan).

Blac Bl ackk Ro ac Rock ckk San ands ds,, Mo ds Morf rfaa Byych rf chan an

Naturally speaking. Here’s a quick reference guide. The bit of our coast that sticks out like a crooked finger is the Llyˆn Peninsula, an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ dotted with small resorts. Further south, the mountainbacked Cambrian Coast falls within the Snowdonia National Park.

Penmaenmawr Llanfairfechan

Dinas Dinlle Snowdon

Caernarfon Bay

Nefyn Porth Oer

Morfa Bychan Pwllheli

Abersoch Aberdaron Shell Island

Aber Ab eerrdy dyfi fi

Beside the sea. We have hundreds of miles of coastline – and all kinds of seaside, sea-licious experiences, from the bucketand-spade variety to wild walks across spectacular headlands.

Harlech

Barmouth/Abermaw Cardigan Bay Tywyn Aberdyfi

Here’s a run-down from north to south: • Penmaenmawr – long, sandy and gently sloping beach popular with families and sailors • Llanfairfechan – another big sandy beach at this small, family-friendly seaside resort • Dinas Dinlle, near Caernarfon – vast beach with vast views, good for walking, windsurfing and power kiting • Nefyn – two miles of beach strung out on a pair of horseshoe curves. It’s gorgeous, especially the charming National Trust village of Porthdinllaen • Porth Oer, near Aberdaron – perhaps better known as ‘Whistling Sands’.

The granules really do squeak underfoot • Aberdaron – furthest point west, an ideal base for exploring the Llyˆn Coastal Path

Traethau a’r arfordir

• Abersoch – a fashionable little resort and watersports centre. Great for families – and for shopping, peoplewatching and eating out • Pwllheli South Beach (Marian-y-De) – south facing, sandy and almost three miles long, backed by dunes • Morfa Bychan (Black Rock Sands) – spacious beach popular with families and watersports enthusiasts

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THE COASTLINE: YOUR ONE-MINUTE GUIDE Slip sliding away.

Petiquette.

For information on slipways, boat launching and marinas contact the Gwynedd Maritime Unit on 01758 704066. For harbours and maritime information in the Conwy area call 01492 596253.

There are over 35 beaches along our 200 miles of coastline. Dogs are allowed access to walk along the majority of them. Sections of certain beaches have Dog Exclusion Zones to manage their use and keep them clean and safe. For the latest information please contact Tourist Information Centres (see back cover).

• Harlech – make sandcastles on the big beach in the shadow of the real thing, medieval Harlech Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site • Shell Island, Llanbedr – sand, dunes and, of course, shells • Barmouth/Abermaw – one of our most popular resorts perched on the edge of mountains and the scenic Mawddach Estuary. Huge beach, snug harbour – and a good touring centre too • Tywyn – big, west-facing sandy beach and promenade with spectacular views • Aberdyfi – gorgeous beach in a gorgeous setting on the mouth of the Dyfi Estuary.

Visit our website (www.visitsnowdonia. info) to download the latest apps, maps and details of circular walks. Books and guides are also available from our Tourist Information Centres (see back cover for details).

S, E

Bennar

S, D

Black Rock Sands

S, D

Cricieth

S, P, RP

Dinas Dinlle

P, S

Fairbourne

P, S

Harlech

S, D

Hell’s Mouth

P, S, C

Llanbedrog

S

Llandanwg

P, S, D

Llanfairfechan

RP, S, P

6

Nefyn

S, C, RP

Penmaenmawr

RP, S, P

Porthdinllaen

S

Pwllheli

S, D, P

Trefor

P, S

Tywyn

P, S

Whistling Sands

S, RP, C

1

Green Coast Award

Ë

Seaside Award

4

Blue Flag

ß

Disabled Access

w d s Q Í

Dog Restrictions

Emergency Phone

}

Drinking Water

Ö

Craft Exclusion Zone

S, D

Barmouth

R

First Aid (*seasonal)

S, D

Abersoch

Camp Site

S, D, E

Abererch

Public Transport

Aberdyfi

Shop

P, S, C

5

Toilets

Type

Aberdaron

Parking

Beach

Slipway

Beach facilities guide Surfing

Pathfinding.

We’re proud to say that our coastline accounts for almost a quarter of the 870-mile Wales Coast Path. Opened to great acclaim a few years back, the path has quickly become a top attraction. It’s not just aimed at walkers. The Coast Path website is full of information on beaches, family activities and wildlife too. Download the free app from www.walescoastpath. gov.uk. It’s also available from Keep Wales Tidy at www.welshbeaches.org. This website is a great source of information on all things beachy in Wales, including the Blue Flag, Green Coast and Seaside Awards (see the beach chart opposite).

A errso Ab soch ch

Beach-type key: RP – Rock Pools E – Estuary S – Sandy D – Dunes P – Pebble Beach C – Cliffs www.seasideawards.org.uk / www.blueflag.org / www.keepwalestidy.org

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

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Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

OUR STORY

Conwy Conw Co nw wy Ca Cast ast stle stle

It’s a long one – and quite exciting, we think. We wouldn’t say that it’s Horrible Histories, but it’s certainly enlightening and entertaining, especially thanks to the new and imaginative ways we now tell it. So here it is, a gripping saga that takes us from prehistoric stones to the slate of the Industrial Revolution, with contributions from Romans, princes, kings, priests and prophets along the way.

L yw Ll yweel elyn lyn y the the he Great G t, Conw nw wy

In the beginning... Our origins and prehistory are summed up in places like Dyffryn Ardudwy’s Neolithic Burial Chamber. Is this the oldest stone structure in Britain? It’s certainly two for the price of one – a double burial chamber dating from around 3500 BC.

When in Rome...

Naati Nati tion onal on al Sla al late ate te Museu usseu e m, m, LLla llaanb n er eriss

EIN TREFTADAETH – OUR HERITAGE That’s the name of the recently launched project that presents the history and heritage of North-west Wales off- and on-line in a new and dynamic way, through exhibitions, displays, interpretation and visitor information. Here’s a taster:

Think of Wales.

That’s as far west as the Romans got during their conquest of Britain. You can still see the outline of their large fort of Segontium, on a hill above another celebrated military stronghold in Caernarfon.

Welsh royalty.

The medieval Princes of Gwynedd traced their royal line back to ancient times. Their legacy, architectural and cultural, can be found throughout North-west Wales. Discover chapters of their compelling story at places like Castelly-Bere, stronghold of Llywelyn the Great, hidden in the mountains of Cader Idris.

King of the castle.

That was Edward I, who built some of the greatest medieval castles in the world. We have three – Caernarfon, Conwy and Harlech, all World Heritage Sites.

Sacred places.

Follow in the footsteps of medieval pilgrims, visit holy wells and shrines, seek out inspirational people and places. Refresh the spirit at places like Gwydir Uchaf Chapel, Llanrwst, its plain exterior hiding a colourfully painted interior of sun, moon, stars, clouds, cherubs and doves. Uplifting.

The story of slate.

It’s the industrial story of North-west Wales, the place that ‘roofed the world’ in the 19th century. The former ‘slate capital’ of Blaenau Ffestiniog is one of many locations with a rich industrial heritage – go underground at Llechwedd Slate Caverns with its recently enhanced Deep Mine tour.

Diwylliant a threftadaeth

HISTORY AND HERITAGE: YOUR ONE-MINUTE GUIDE

Exhibition at Orie Orrie iell Pendeitsh, Caernarffon

Ein Treftadaeth – Our Heritage.

Go to the website – and visit information hubs at: *Bangor Museum and Art Gallery, *Caerhun (south of Conwy) – St Mary’s Church, Caernarfon TIC – Oriel Pendeitsh, *Clynnog Fawr – St Beuno’s Church, *Dolgellau TIC, *Dyffryn Ardudwy Neolithic Burial Chamber, *Llangybi – St Cybi’s Well, *Penmaenmawr – New York Cottages, *Trawsfynydd – Tomeny-Mur Fort *= scheduled to open early 2014 www.snowdoniaheritage.info

Cadw. Meaning ‘to

Wales and World War One. 2014

keep’, it’s the name of the Welsh Government’s historic environment service, responsible for many historic sites including major castles like Caernarfon and Conwy. Download the latest version of its app from the Apple or Google stores. Keep up with Cadw’s news too. Scheduled to open in summer 2014 is Harlech Castle’s new visitor centre where you’ll be greeted by a state-of-the-art interpretation of the fortress’s fiery 800-year history.

marks the 100th anniversary of the start of WWI. North-west Wales has many historic connections with this plaintive conflict.

There’s the story, for example, of poet and shepherd Hedd Wyn (born Ellis Humphrey Evans), killed in the Battle of Passchendaele before he learnt that he had, under his pseudonym of Fleur de Lis, won the National Eisteddfod Chair in 1917 (known ever since as Eisteddfod Y Gadair Ddu, ‘The Eisteddfod of the Black Chair’). You can visit Yr Ysgwrn, his farmhouse home, by appointment (contact the Snowdonia National Park on 01766 770274 or yrysgwrn@eryri-npa.gov.uk).

The National Museums of Wales and National Trust. Llanberis’s National Slate Museum brings to life an industry that, just like coal in the south, had a massive local impact. The National Trust cares for mansions and historic houses large and small – everything from Bangor’s neobaronial Penrhyn Castle to humble Tyˆ Mawr Wybrnant, Penmachno, home of Bishop William Morgan, who first translated the Bible into Welsh.

Princes of Gwynedd.

You’ll find the information hubs at: Beddgelert TIC, Betws-y-Coed TIC, Caernarfon TIC, Conwy TIC, Craflwyn (National Trust property near Beddgelert) and Cricieth Castle Visitor Centre.

For more details see the free booklet and website: www.princesofgwynedd.info

David Lloyd George led the Wartime Coalition Government after 1916. Learn more about this colourful, controversial politician at the Lloyd George Museum, Llanystumdwy.

Words and music.

The Welsh language is part of the fabric of life here.

You can easily share in it too. Visit Nant Gwrtheryrn Welsh Language and Heritage Centre tucked away near Llithfaen on the Llyˆn Peninsula to experience the spiritual tug of place and culture. This lyrical language of ours is music to the ears. And for the written word there’s Tyˆ Newydd, the National Writers’ Centre for Wales, at Llanystumdwy.

Open Doors. It’s free

St Beuno euun no o’ss Chu hurc rcch h,, C Cly lyynn lynn nogg Faw awrr

7

entry time at heritage attractions each September when Open Doors takes place at historic sites, museums, churches and shrines throughout Snowdonia Mountains and Coast.

Lloyyd Geeorge Ll orggee Mus or u eu eum, m Llaanyyst m, s um u dw dwyy

Big news from Bala and Bangor.

Bala will host the 2014 Urdd National Eisteddfod (26–31 May). It’s one of Europe’s largest cultural youth festivals, celebrating the best talent in song, dance, drama and design. And look out for the opening of the Pontio centre in Bangor (due to be completed in 2014), a major new complex for theatre, film, music, circus, dance and other innovative performing arts.

Festival of Archaeology.

Discover your inner archaeologist, meet the experts and have a go yourself at the world’s largest celebration of archaeology, which takes place nationwide 12–27 July 2014.

Urdd d Nattio on naal Ei Eistted e dfod dfod df o

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

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Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

HOME GROWN Conwy mussels and Welsh Black beef, Cardigan Bay seafood and mountain lamb – even those two classic French staples, cheese and wine. We’ve got the lot in North-west Wales, local produce that’s fresh and good, tempting and tasty. What’s more, we have the talent to use it to the best advantage. Chefs and cooks throughout the region produce dishes for every occasion, from fine dining with all the frills to family meals out in friendly bistros and cafés.

Good food. We aren’t the only ones saying it. We’re well represented in the 2014 edition of the best-selling Waitrose Good Food Guide.

Abersoch: Porth Tocyn Hotel. This ‘redoubtable familyrun hotel’ has been ‘a Guide stalwart for 57 years and counting’. It’s a ‘smart choice for days by the sea, but also cuts it as a destination for those who appreciate capably cooked Welsh ingredients.’

Bangor: Blue Sky Café. ‘An amiable daytime eatery housed in a former chapel.’

Barmouth: Bistro Bermo. ‘Fresh fish from the nearby harbour crops up on the specials board, while the regular menu keeps it simple and honest.’

Bodnant Welsh Food Centre, Tal-yCafn: Hayloft Restaurant. ‘Definitely the sort of place you would have on your regular dinner-venue list if you lived locally.

I doubt you could get nearer to eating food at source.’

Conwy: Dawson’s at the Castle Hotel.

‘Local ingredients get a big thumbs-up, particularly lamb… first, try Conwy mussels (food miles: just 100 yards).’

Cricieth: Tir a Môr. ‘Bistro with comforting local food… that makes good use of the bounty of land and sea.’

F rm Fa rmer ers’ er s mar s’ a ke k t Dolgellau: Bwyty Mawddach.

‘Mediterranean flavours on a Snowdonia family farm.’

Dolgellau: Dylanwad Da. ‘A veteran provider of hospitality… Dylan Rowlands’s food remains true to the spirit of generosity, wholesome flavour and comfort.’

Harlech: Castle Cottage. An ‘accomplished restaurant-with-rooms… (with) carefully considered cooking based around well-sourced ingredients.’

Llanberis: Bwyty’r Copa/The Peak.

‘High-quality Welsh ingredients inspire international dishes in the kitchen... (of this) welcoming and unassuming restaurant.’

Penmaenpool, near Dolgellau: Penmaenuchaf Hall. ‘Oak-panelled opulence and modern menus’ are the hallmarks of this ‘long-standing Guide stalwart (with) confident modern Welsh cooking.’

Pwllheli: Plas Bodegroes. A ‘landmark hotel with impressive food… distinguished by the proud and intelligent use of excellent Welsh ingredients with outward-looking flair.’

Bwyd a chynnyrch lleol

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FOODIE FACTS: YOUR ONE-MINUTE GUIDE foodnorthwales.co.uk

is a brand-new one-stop website that spells out why North Wales is one of the UK’s top food tourism destinations, with advice on the best places to eat and drink and where to buy local produce, plus recipes and all the latest food news.

Dyyla lanw nwad nw ad Da, ad a, Dol olge gellllau lau au inside and out, set within Caernarfon’s medieval walls almost next-door to the town’s World Heritage castle. As you’d expect, there are oak beams, bags of character and roaring open fires aplenty – and the food’s pretty good too.

Bllack aacck Bo oy In Inn, n,, Caeern n narfon

Taste and Talent.

The Gwynedd Taste and Talent Awards recognise the people behind the food, drink, arts and crafts scene in Gwynedd, from farmer to brewer, potter to painter. 2014 winners will be announced in January. For more details go to www.facebook.com/ BlasDawnGwyneddTasteTalent

Hot from the kitchen.

Here’s a soupçon of foodie news from Snowdonia.

• Two of the best. Two of the finalists in the National Tourism Awards ‘Best Places to Eat in Wales’ are local. Bryn Tyrch Inn, Capel Curig, is all about freshness and true taste. It’s ‘real food, real cooking’ says Head Chef Simon Hough. Fresh and local are also the guiding lights at Signatures Restaurant, Conwy, where Executive Chef Jimmy Williams and his team wow diners with their contemporary cuisine.

And we’ve just heard that the winner in the best large restaurant category is…

Signatures. Well done, da iawn.

• Top of the pubs. According to Which, the Black Boy Inn, Caernarfon, is one of the best 20 pubs in Wales. It’s historic

• Uncork a Château Snowdonia?

Why not? Pant Du Vineyard, on the slopes of Dyffryn Nantlle, produces a red, white and rosé wine, plus cider and apple juice.

It’s on the new Wine Trail Wales featuring wines of exceptional quality. New for 2014, they’re also bottling their own water. If you’re happier with a pint in your hand then look out for Purple Moose, an award-winning local beer brewed in Porthmadog.

• The big shop. The Bodnant Welsh Food Centre, opened in 2012, goes from strength to strength. The new £6.5-million centre has shops selling everything from local organic produce to its own award-winning cheese, a tearoom, restaurant and cookery school.

We say ‘new’, but in reality it’s based at a sympathetically renovated old farm complex in a splendid spot overlooking the Vale of Conwy. It’s also home to the National Beekeeping Centre for Wales.

• Opening up the larder. Bwtri y Crochan – The Larder is another shop that, like Bodnant, opened in 2012 to showcase some of the best food and drink made in Wales. Many of its 450plus items come from even closer to home, having been grown, reared or produced just a few miles away. Along with a café, it’s based at the Corris Craft Centre.

Look, it’s local.

Local produce markets are held at: Conwy: Wednesday (monthly, 9am–1pm at the RSPB Nature Reserve).

Ogwen: Second Saturday of every month (10am–2pm) at Llys Dafydd, Bethesda; from November to March at Jerusalem Chapel, Bethesda.

Porthmadog: Last Saturday of every month (9.30am–2pm) at Y Ganolfan, Harbour.

Pop-up places: Launched in 2013, the Snowdonia Farmers’ Market will again be visiting locations throughout the region in 2014. To find out where to join them go to their Facebook page (www.facebook. com/MarchnadEryriSnowdoniaMarket) and follow them on Twitter @MarchnadEryri

Market forces.

Shop locally. Meet the people. Buy fresh from the field. Check out the provenance. It’s all on a plate at our farmers’ markets, farm shops, food festivals and fairs. For more on real food from real people go to www.fork2fork.org.uk or contact our Tourist Information Centres (see back page).

Market days. Barmouth: Thursday and Sunday (summer only). Blaenau Ffestiniog: Tuesday. Caernarfon: Saturday (all year) and Monday (May–September). Llanrwst: Tuesday. Porthmadog: Friday. Pwllheli: Wednesday. Tywyn: Monday (summer only).

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

10 Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

WHERE TO SHOP?

You’d be surprised. We mightn’t go in for mega-sized out-of-town shopping centres. That’s not really our style. But we do have everything you’ll ever need – all the familiar High Street names plus (and this is where we come into our own) those smaller, specialist shops that retain their individuality and personality. Sadly, they’re becoming a rare breed in Britain, but we’re happy to report they’re alive and well wherever you travel throughout Snowdonia Mountains and Coast.

Betw Be t stw s-yy-Co yCoed Co ed

winter. And where better, if you’re a walker, to buy those new boots, jacket and maps you need? The good folk of Betws even lay on late night shopping in December – just right for those unusual Christmas gifts.

The long and the short of it. Bangor

Baangor B nggor o

Buzzing Betws.

Go to Betws-y-Coed on any day of the year to see what we mean.

Its unique collection of independent shops and galleries includes places selling outdoor gear, crafts and gifts. It’s a popular walking centre. But people also come here just to shop – in spring, summer, autumn and

boasts the longest High Street in Wales, so it’s no surprise that the town is a major shopping destination. Its modern Deiniol and Menai shopping centres add to the appeal. Caernarfon is on the shopping map too, especially thanks to the large, stylish Celtica store at Doc Fictoria, stocked with the best products from Wales and other Celtic countries.

On a more intimate scale there are places like Dolgellau, Bala, Pwllheli and Llanrwst where shopping is a real pleasure in friendly, family-run stores that have served their local communities for decades.

One-off shopping. With such a wide choice of characterful independent shops it’s difficult to choose stand-out places. If pushed, we’d have to recommend a visit to Porthmadog for at least two reasons.

Kerfoots, complete with its glass dome and spiral staircase, is a fabulous, smallscale department store selling quality homeware, clothing and luxury items. It’s North Wales’s answer to Harrods or John Lewis. And if you’re a fan of the late, great John Peel you’ll want to make a pilgrimage to Cob Records, the legendary shop known to collectors of vinyl the world over.

Actually, make that three reasons.

The magical village Portmeirion is close by – it’s a true one-off with a charming choice of shops, including, of course, a Portmeirion Pottery outlet.

Siopa a chrefftau

11

SHOP AROUND: YOUR ONE-MINUTE GUIDE www.creativegwynedd.com is your one-stop shop for all artsrelated news plus a comprehensive directory of arts associations, centres and individuals. For details of the Helfa Gelf Arts Trail to studios and workshops throughout North-west Wales go to www.helfagelf.org

Eryri Er yri bran yr bran br ande d d locall pr de p oducce Port Po rtmeirrion

Tourist Information Centres.

They’re not just places that tell you about local events, attractions and activities, or for booking quality accommodation. They’re also handy for a spot of shopping, selling a wide range of books, gifts, souvenirs and local produce. See the back cover for location details.

The art of slate.

Corr Co rrrris is Craaft ft C Cen entr tree

Arty, crafty. Arts and crafts flourish here, inspired by our dramatic land- and seascapes and robust ‘sense of place’. Artists, sculptors, metalworkers and potters display their work in galleries large and small. There are mills at Bryncir (near Porthmadog), Trefriw and Dinas Mawddwy. Corris Craft Centre is an entire village made up of individual craft workshops.

You’ll also come across small workshops scattered everywhere and individual spaces like the IARD craft workshops at Parc

Llanbe beri rs

You can’t miss it. Slate is everywhere in Northwest Wales. It once roofed the world. Nowadays, it has become a medium for artistic expression – items carved from slate are in craft shops everywhere. And when you visit Blaenau Ffestiniog, the ‘town of slate’, you’ll see how it has been used artistically to create features that enhance the townscape.

Glynllifon, near Caernarfon (there’s also a shop in Caernarfon) and Aber Uchaf, Abersoch.

Plas Glyn-y-Weddw, Llanbedrog, and the Royal Cambrian Academy, Conwy, are two of Wales’s leading art galleries. Gwynedd Museum and Art Gallery, Bangor, stages varied exhibitions of painting, photography and sculpture. The latest addition to our thriving arts scene is Dolgellau’s Oriel Grug Gallery.

Blae Bl a na ae nauu Ffes Ffes Ff esti tini tini ti niog ogg

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

12 Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

ACTIVITIES FOR ALL

Mawd Ma wd dda dach ch Tra railill, Dolg Dolg Do lgel ella el lau to B lau Bar arrmout mo out uh

It’s our A-list. We’re talking Activities and Action. There’s adrenaline too, of course. But it’s not all wild white-knuckle stuff. Snowdonia Mountains and Coast is the UK’s activities capital for family-friendly outdoor experiences. You name it, you can go ahead and do it amongst our mountains, along the coast and in our rivers and lakes.

Mark Cavendish cycling towards the finishing line

Ride and seek.

Britain has gone cycling mad. Sir Brad, Sir Chris Hoy, Chris Froome, Mark Cavendish and Wales’s very own Geraint Thomas have inspired a new and growing audience to get on their bikes. And where better to do so than in Snowdonia?

Welsh-speaking Sir Dave Brailsford, the brains behind Britain’s cycling supremacy, hails from the village of Deiniolen near Llanberis. He talks movingly of the ‘millions of times’ he has pedalled up the Llanberis Pass and the fact that North Wales is ‘the one place I can go back and get this massive sense of just being at ease with myself and happy’.

Muddy wheels welcome.

Stage Four of last year’s Tour of Britain ended with Cavendish crossing the line first at Llanberis. ‘It wasn’t that hard,’ he said of the mountainous stage. See if you agree.

It’s certainly easy to enjoy our surroundings.

We go out of our way to welcome cyclists of all abilities, with a network of dedicated cyclepaths and routes that are quiet or completely traffic free – and all superscenic. And if you do want to try to keep up with Cav you can test your fitness on cycling events like Etape Eryri (www.alwaysaimhighevents.com).

Ffestiniog is also in on the act. Its new Antur Stiniog mountain biking centre, based at Llechwedd slate quarry, is wowing downhill fans. Here are some of the glowing reviews posted on www.ibikeride.com, a leading MTB site.

Snowdonia Mountains and Coast is a mountain biking superstar. Admittedly, we have the terrain for it. But there are also the facilities to match.

The sport was introduced to the UK, big time, with the opening of the first manmade trails in the Coed y Brenin Forest Park in the early 1990s. We haven’t looked back since. CyB gets better and better. It’s just opened a £1.7m extension to its Visitor Centre with a new bike shop, hire centre and beginners’ bike skills course.

Downhill all the way. Blaenau

‘Amazing Antur! Never been anywhere like it, some of the best trails in Wales and around the UK, I would say maybe top 15 in Europe!’ LEWIS BRADLEY ‘Fun, fun and more fun! A brilliant addition to the N Wales mtb scene.

Super efficient… and 4 fab trails to enjoy.’ KATHG

Gweithgareddau a phethau i’w gwneud

13

Go with the flow. Our rivers and lakes are overflowing with aquatic action. Bala’s Llyn Tegid – the largest natural lake in Wales – is a major watersports centre. It’s close to the River Tryweryn, a torrent that guarantees white water – and white-knuckle rafting thrills at the National White Water Centre, where anyone who doesn’t mind getting wet can have a go. Try kayaking on beautiful Llyn Gwynant near Beddgelert or Llyn Padarn at Llanberis. Other watersports lakes include Llyn Geirionydd hidden away in the Gwydyr Forest, Llynnau Mymbyr near Capel Curig, Llyn Trawsfynydd and Llyn Brenig near Cerrigydrudion.

Trryf yfan faan n, Og Ogwe wen Va Valllleyy

Walk this way. For sandy coastal strolls Shore thing. There’s salt in our and rocky mountain highs see page 16.

Climb every mountain.

Perhaps not.

It might take some time if you do. But you can at least follow in the footsteps (and handholds) of such legends as Sir Edmund Hillary, Joe Brown and Don Whillans, all of whom have been drawn to Snowdonia’s crags, slabs and screes. And don’t forget the coast – parts of the Llyˆn Peninsula, for example, are lined with challenging sea-cliffs.

veins along a 200-mile coastline packed with sailing and watersports action.

Wakeboarding is a speciality at Abersoch, while hardcore surfers head for Porth Neigwl (its alternative name, Hell’s Mouth, might give you an idea of what to expect). Standup paddleboarding – the new big thing in watersports – is popular in a number of venues, including Dinas Dinlle. Sailors can choose between the sheltered Menai Strait and the open waters of Cardigan Bay and the Irish Sea, accessible from a string of havens, harbours and marinas. Biggest of all is Hafan Pwllheli, a world-class modern marina with over 400 berths and excellent onshore facilities at the gateway to some of the best sailing waters in the UK.

Wakestock Festival, Pwllheli

Snow Sn owdo do on niia Ridi Ridi Ri ding ding ng Staabl bles es, Wa es, es Waun unfa faawr w

In the saddle.

For horse riders and pony trekkers (absolute beginners and experts equally welcomed) there’s an inspiring choice of bridlepaths and routes along wooded valleys like the lovely Vale of Ffestiniog and beaches such as those along the sandy southern coast of the Llyˆn Peninsula. One of our classics is a halfday trek through rugged terrain and open mountains, with the highest peaks in Wales and England on one side and the Irish Sea on the other.

For more activities please see overleaf Port Po rth rt h Ne Neiig igwl wl

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

14 Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

ACTIVITIES FOR ALL

Ro R oyyaal St Dav a id’ss, Ha Harlech h

Golf as it should be.

Glaslyn Ri Rive ver,r, Bed ve ddg d el eleerrt

Online. There’s fabulous sea angling from our shores and deep sea boats (charters are available almost everywhere). Game fishermen make for our lakes and rivers (for superb brown trout fishing you can’t beat Llyn Myngul in the mountains near Abergynolwyn). There’s good coarse fishing too at locations like Llyn Trawsfynydd – it’s a designated Eryri Centre of Excellence with great facilities for anglers, including a new visitor centre and jetty. For more information on where to fish see our free Fishing guide available as a download from our website or by post.

It’s the special brand of Welsh golf, played on friendly, accessible courses.

We have around 20, including three of the UK’s finest – Royal St David’s at Harlech, the classic links at Aberdyfi, and iconic Nefyn, perched on cliffs along the Llyˆn Peninsula. Legendary course designer James Braid did some of his best work in North Wales – as you’ll discover when you follow the new James Braid Golf Trail, which links 10 of his courses.

All in one centres.

What if you want to do a number of activities from one centre? No problem when you book into places like Plas Menai National Watersports Centre near Caernarfon, or the famous Plas y Brenin National Mountain Centre at Capel Curig. They’re just two of the many multiactivity providers you’ll find here.

‘I took 3 of my grandchildren to Capel Curig… rock climbing and walking, they didn’t want to go home.

And neither did I.’ KERRY LIVESEY

One big adventure.

Hovercrafting anyone? Or how about a spot of skiing, quad biking, paintballing, geocaching, go-karting or archery? They’re all covered in our One Big Adventure guide – see the ‘Activities – your one-minute guide’ section for details.

Do it, watch it.

Snowdonia Mountains and Coast hosts all kinds of events throughout the year. Wales Rally GB, with its highly praised new home in North Wales, promises to be even more successful in 2014. There are triathlons and mountain races too, sportives and mountain biking challenges, sailing competitions and walking festivals. Have a go, or enjoy the spectacle as a spectator.

For full ‘what’s on’ details see the events listing on page 32.

Baalaa Triiat B ah hllon n

Gweithgareddau a phethau i’w gwneud

Co C oaasste steeer e iin ng, g PPor orrth o rth t di d nllla l en

ACTIVITIES: YOUR ONE-MINUTE GUIDE Cyclists Welcome.

Look out for this logo in our accommodation listings.

The property will have special features such as secure lockable areas for bikes, drying facilities for wet clothes and so on.

LLllyn Pad daarrn, Lla lanb nber nb eris riss

is a lovely ride that climbs (lazily for most of the way) into the mountains from Bangor.

It’s in the process of being extended all the way to Bethesda and beyond, finishing at the spectacular lake of Llyn Ogwen. You can also walk this route, and sections are suitable for wheelchairs.

Cycle Breaks Centres.

Dolgellau and the Llyˆn Peninsula are two of Wales’s dedicated locations. Take your pick from over 10 signposted low-traffic routes specially chosen for their access to some of the best cycling challenges in our rural landscapes.

Route and pathfinding.

It’s easy.

Just dive into our network of easy-to-follow waymarked cyclepaths. It’s usually easy riding too, ideal for families. Download full details of seven traffic-free Recreational Routes from the Cycling section of our website. To give you a taster, Lôn Las Ogwen

15

Penm Pe enm nmac achn ch hn no no

Making tracks. As well as Coed y Brenin and Antur Stiniog in Blaenau Ffestiniog, there’s exciting mountain biking in the Beddgelert, Dyfi, Gwydyr and Penmachno forests (Penmachno, for example, is a hidden gem, with a 19-mile mixture of sweet singletrack and scenic forest trails). And for purists who prefer natural terrain there’s off-road gold on the grassy tracks, rocky trails and ancient paths that lattice our hills and mountains.

Look and book.

Book your ‘Big Adventure’ now.

Our new easy-to-use Booking Hub features over 20 activity adventure tasters (canyoning, high ropes, wild lake swimming, watersports, gorge walking, etc). It’s available at the following Tourist Information Centres (see back cover for contact details): Barmouth, Beddgelert, Caernarfon, Dolgellau, Porthmadog and Pwllheli.

Or call 01286 672232, 01341 280787 or 01766 512981. See more at www.visitsnowdonia.info

Bala on YouTube. Bala and district has produced a series of short videos on a range of activities – the outdoors, watersports, walking and off-road driving. Watch them on YouTube or www.visitbala.org

One Big Adventure. That’s the title of our comprehensive activities guidebook.

Download a free copy now from our website. Or if you prefer we’ll pop one in the post.

Lô Lôn ôn La Lass Ogwe Oggwe wen, n, Ban ango ggo or

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

16 Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

WALK THIS WAY

Wale Wa lees C Co oas a t Pa Path th,, Nant th Nant Na n Gwr wrth t eyrn th eyrn ey n, Ll L itthf hfae aeen

We’re an amazing maze of walks. Go right to the top (of Snowdon, that is).

Or lie low amongst ancient oakwoods and sandy coastal paths. Walk for miles and miles (over 90, actually) along the ‘edge of Wales’ on the Llyˆn Coastal Path. Or delve into the glades of beech, redwoods and Douglas firs in the Coed y Brenin Forest Park on the gentle, mile-long Cefndeuddwr Trail (there’s a great view of Cader Idris along the route).

A walking superstar.

We honestly can’t count the number of paths, routes and waymarked trails you’ll find here. They add up to hundreds, maybe thousands, of miles of walking. But we do know that one – the unique Wales Coast Path, which made headlines the world over when it opened a few years back – has given us yet more stars. It’s 870 miles long – and around 200 of those miles are here in Snowdonia, the Llyˆn Peninsula and Cambrian Coast. We don’t expect you to walk them all in one go.

That would be greedy. Here are a few bitesized chunks to whet your appetite.

A erdy Ab d fi

The beautiful south. The 6½ miles from Cricieth to Porthmadog along the southern shores of Llyˆn are packed with scenic and historic interest. Start at medieval Cricieth Castle then walk along Black Rock Sands – a huge beach backed by dunes – to the pretty little harbour of Borth-y-Gest. Then it’s onwards along the lovely Glaslyn Estuary to the heritage-rich harbour at Porthmadog, where slate was exported worldwide. www.walescoastpath.gov.uk

Best foot forward in Bala. Bala is a

Port Po rtthd dinll in nlll aaeen Northern exposure. This short walk (around 3 miles), from Nefyn to Porthdinllaen, is the ideal introduction to north Llyˆn’s spectacular coast. You’ll skirt a perfect half-crescent of sand before reaching the timeless little National Trust village of Porthdinllaen. Rest your feet, soak up the view, spot seals and stop off for a pint at the Tyˆ Coch Inn (the third best beach bar in the world, incidentally, according to a recent poll conducted by the travel website cheapflights.co.uk).

‘Walkers are Welcome’ kind of town. It’s got the lot – three mountain ranges, the largest natural lake in Wales, and friendly accommodation where you can put your feet up after a day exploring it all. Like the rest of Snowdonia, you don’t have to be a macho mountain man to enjoy the Great Outdoors.

There are lots of easy, inviting family trails too – treasure hunts for the kids, an all-ability lakeside path, scenic strolls and heritage trails taking in town and country. www.gobala.org

Baalaa B

Llwybr Arfordir Cymru Wales Coast Path Mae Llwybr Arfordir Cymru – sy’n 870 milltir o hyd – yn barod i’w archwilio. Gan ymestyn o’r ffin rhwng Cymru a Lloegr yng nghyffiniau Caer yn CAERGYBI HOLYHEAD y gogledd, i Gas-gwent yn y de, dyma’r llwybr arfordirol di-dor hiraf drwy’r byd.

Ar hyd y Llwybr mae yna olygfeydd godidog, o glogwyni uchel i draethau tywodlyd. Mae hefyd yn cynnig sawl awyrgylch gwahanol, o ddinasoedd mawr i borthladdoedd pysgota bychain.

Bydd y Llwybr yw apelio at ymwelwyr a thrigolion NEFYN lleol fel ei gilydd, gan helpu pawb i fwynhau ffordd iachach o fyw trwy wneud mwy ABERSOCH o ymarfer corff. Ei nod hefyd yw dod â manteision economaidd i ardaloedd arfordirol.

ABERDARON Caiff y gwaith o greu a gwella Llwybr Arfordir Cymru ei gydlynu gan y Cyfoeth Naturiol Cymru a’i ariannu gan Lywodraeth Cymru, Cronfa Datblygu Rhanbarthol Ewrop ac awdurdodau lleol arfordirol.

LLANDUDNO

RHYL Y FFLINT FLINT

BANGOR CAERNARFON

CAER CHESTER

PORTHMADOG HARLECH ABERMAW BARMOUTH ABERDYFI ABERDOVEY

www.llwybrarfordircymru.gov.uk ABERYSTWYTH

The 870 mile long Wales Coast Path is ready to be explored. Stretching from the Welsh border near Chester in the north to Chepstow in the south, it is the longest continuous coast path in the world.

ABERAERON

The Path offers spectacular scenery from soaring cliffs to sandy bays... and ABERTEIFI CARDIGAN contrasting atmospheres from big cities to tiny ABERGWAUN fishing ports.

FISHGUARD

The Path is designed to appeal to visitors TYˆ DDEWI and local people ST DAVID’S CARMARTHEN alike – helping PEMBROKE everyone enjoy a LLANELLI healthy lifestyle by ABERTAWE SWANSEA taking more exercise DINBYCH-Y-PYSGOD TENBY and bringing economic benefits to coastal areas.

Work to create and improve the Wales Coast Path is co-ordinated by Natural Resources Wales and funded by the Welsh Government, the European Regional Development Fund and the coastal local authorities. www.walescoastpath.gov.uk

PORTHCAWL

CAS-GWENT CHEPSTOW CASNEWYDD NEWPORT CAERDYDD CARDIFF YNYS Y BARRI BARRY ISLAND Photographs © Crown copyright (2013) Visit Wales

18 Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

WHERE TO GO?

An easy question that’s difficult to answer. That’s because we have even more attractions, activities and places to visit than mountain peaks – over 150 at the last count. To help you through the maze, on these next few pages we’ve bunched some of the very best into various categories – everything from ‘Little Railways’ to ‘Activities and Outdoors’. So off you go...

LITTLE RAILWAYS Corris Railway

So it’s dinky, it’s sweet – but it takes you on a railway ride through the dunes to some pretty big views of the Mawddach Estuary and mountains beyond.

Why go? The ride in itself is enough. But there’s more. It connects with the ferry across the Mawddach to Barmouth. www.fairbournerailway.com

In a nutshell. This 2ft 3ins narrow-gauge line, dating from the mid-19th century, was originally built to haul slate. It closed in 1948, but thanks to the efforts of dedicated volunteers, steam locos and a passenger service were reintroduced in 2002. The 50-minute round trip includes a guided tour of the line’s historic workshops and engine shed.

Why go? Train buffs are in heaven here. As well as the nostalgic railway ride, they get to visit the Corris Railway Museum. www.corris.co.uk

Fairbourne Steam Railway

In a nutshell. It’s the smallest of Wales’s narrow-gauge railways, with a track width of only 12¼ins.

Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways, Porthmadog and Caernarfon

In a nutshell. Two separate railways, little in gauge, large in appeal. The 13½-mile Ffestiniog from Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog now carries passengers, not slate. It’s one of Wales’s best-loved Great Little Trains. The Welsh Highland from Caernarfon to Porthmadog travels through some of North-west Wales’s most breathtaking mountain scenery and the show-stopping Aberglaslyn Pass – a whopping 25 miles from start to finish, making it Britain’s longest heritage railway.

Why go? Scenery and steam.

Put the two railways together for a giant little ride of nearly 80 miles there and back. www.festrail.co.uk

The Narrow-Gauge Talyllyn Railway, Tywyn Railway Museum, Tywyn

In a nutshell. Locomotives, signalling equipment, old tickets, wagons… and wagonloads of other railway memorabilia, over 1,000 artefacts in total. You name it, you’ll find it at this unique museum located at the Talyllyn Railway’s Wharf Station. The museum also tells the story of local slate haulage, and the national impact of narrow-gauge lines throughout Britain.

Why go? It’s a full-on narrowgauge experience. Visit the museum, then hop on the Talyllyn Railway to Abergynolwyn (see separate entry). www.ngrm.org.uk

Snowdon Mountain Railway, Llanberis

In a nutshell. Mountaineering made easy on a ride of over four miles to the roof of Wales. Travel along at 5mph on the only rack-and-pinion railway in the UK. It’s ‘without doubt one of the most spectacular railway journeys’, says The Good Britain Guide. When you get to the top, call into the award-winning summit visitor centre, Hafod Eryri – if it’s chilly outside snuggle up in its warm Welsh-oak interior.

Why go? Every visitor to North Wales should go to the top of Yr Wyddfa/Snowdon. If you want to walk but don’t fancy the uphill bit, buy a single ticket and walk back down. Oh, and the views are free. www.snowdonrailway.co.uk

In a nutshell. The daddy of them all. Talyllyn is the world’s first preserved railway, running for over seven miles from Cardigan Bay through the smooth, green mountains of the southern Snowdonia National Park. It’s easy to see why this little train inspired the stories of Thomas the Tank Engine.

Why go? A strong steam heritage. Friendly, enthusiastic staff. Classic rural landscapes and beguiling stopping-off places like the waterfalls at Dolgoch.

Narrow-Gauge Railway Museum at Tywyn (see separate entry). www.talyllyn.co.uk

Welsh Highland Heritage Railway, Porthmadog

In a nutshell. A short narrowgauge rail ride from Porthmadog takes you to a Heritage Centre and Engine Sheds, packed with exhibits and displays on Northwest Wales’s railway and industrial heritage. There’s also a second rail ride – this time on a miniature railway with a tiny seven-inch gauge.

Why go? It’s a charming little railway, run by passionate volunteers. The Heritage Centre has won awards for its hands-on approach – climb into engine cabs, sit at the controls, watch a video that shows you what it’s like at 600 degrees inside a boiler. www.whr.co.uk

Atyniadau a llefydd i ymweld â nhw

ON THE WATER Anglesey Boat Trips

Shearwater Luxury Charter Cruises, Pwllheli

demonstration hives to see bees and beekeepers at work, then sample some delicious food. The views overlooking the River Conwy are pretty good too. www.bodnant-welshfood.co.uk

Oriel Plas Glyn-yWeddw, Llanbedrog

In a nutshell. Scenic, spectacular trips in six- and eight-person RIB powerboats with fully qualified, experienced pilots, departing mainly from Dinorwic Marina, Y Felinheli. Plus an exciting ‘Blast’ ride that runs from Beaumaris and Menai Bridge.

Why go? They’re great fun as you whiz along the Menai Strait to places like Beaumaris Castle, Puffin Island and Llanddwyn Island. www.angleseyboattrips.com

RibRide Adventure Boat Tours

In a nutshell. Shearwater is a luxury catamaran purpose-built exclusively for the company. It cruises the beautiful waters of the Llyˆn Peninsula from Hafan Pwllheli Marina.

Why go? The company couldn’t have chosen a better base from which to specialise in scenic and nature cruises. Shearwater takes you to seal and seabird colonies, dolphin-friendly waters, spectacular sea-cliffs and islands like St Tudwal’s (off Abersoch) and Ynysoedd Gwylan (off Aberdaron). www.shearwatercruises.com

ARTS, CRAFTS AND SHOPPING Bodnant Welsh Food, Conwy Valley

In a nutshell. You’ll ride a state-of-the-art RIB along the Menai Strait and across to Anglesey with pick-up points at Y Felinheli, Caernarfon, Menai Bridge and Beaumaris. The boats are quiet but powerful – expect to hit speeds of 50mph, but in comfort. Private charters also available.

Why go? The adrenaline rush, the North Wales coast’s stunning scenery, local information you’ll get en route and the professionalism of a Visit Wales National Tourism Award-winning company. It’s one of the top rated activities in North Wales, guaranteed to put a smile on your face. www.ribride.co.uk

In a nutshell. It’s one of Wales’s leading art galleries (and certainly the oldest), with permanent displays and changing exhibitions by artists from Wales and further afield. The Grade II Star listed house is a work of art in itself.

Dating from the mid-19th century, it’s a prime example of a Victorian Gothic mansion (purpose built, incidentally, to show art, so it’s keeping up the good work). Recent additions to the venue include a 12-acre woodland with around two miles of gentle walks, an outdoor theatre, indoor film exhibition space and 43-bay eco-friendly car park.

Why go? For the art obviously – but also for the outdoor theatre, concerts and craft fairs, woodland walks, café, picturesque setting and self-catering accommodation. www.oriel.org.uk

In a nutshell. The place to go for shopping and eating. Bodnant, opened in 2012, showcases the very best Welsh artisan produce, from veg to cheeses, mountain lamb to tasty treats. The beautifully converted 18thcentury Furnace Farm houses a farm shop, tearoom, restaurant, bakery, dairy, butchery, cooking school and beekeeping centre.

Five-star accommodation is also available.

Why go? It’s a foodie heaven for the whole family. Learn a new skill in the cookery school, visit

Trefriw Woollen Mills

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In a nutshell. A well-known, long-established woollen mill that manufactures traditional Welsh bedspreads, blankets, tweeds and travelling rugs from raw wool using vintage machinery. And it all runs on water power from a hydro-electric turbine.

Why go? It’s a great place to buy presents and mementos from the well-stocked shop. You can also see the looms and turbine, visit the mill museum (April to October) and watch handspinning demonstrations (June to September). There’s also an online shop. www.t-w-m.co.uk

HERITAGE, TRADITIONS AND GREEN SNOWDONIA Felin Uchaf, Llyˆn Peninsula

In a nutshell. This innovative education centre ‘explores ways of living and working in creative partnership, with each other and our environment’.

Why go? In practical terms, that means volunteering, training and apprenticeship opportunities in heritage conservation and eco-construction. Courses in hands-on skills like woodland management and organic gardening are also part of the programme, together with cultural events and activities.

It’s a busy, fulfilling place – green and cultural tourism initiatives include the Tir y Môr venture (see separate entry overleaf). www.felinuchaf.org

For more attractions and activities see overleaf

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

20 Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

Electric Mountain, Llanberis

Plas yn Rhiw, Aberdaron Porth y Swnt, Aberdaron Tir y Môr, Llyˆn Peninsula

In a nutshell. It’s a small, perfectly formed Tudor/Georgian manor house in the care of the National Trust.

In a nutshell. You won’t want to miss this indoor attraction with a difference. Elidir Mountain above the lake is hollow, hiding the largest pumped-storage hydroelectric power station in Europe.

Take an underground tour of an awesome space that generates green, clean power.

Why go? It’s like a film-set for a James Bond movie, vast chambers and tunnels so big you can drive a bus through them. Which is a good job, since you’ll be on it. www.electricmountain.co.uk

Why go? For the surroundings as much as the house. Plas yn Rhiw stands in a truly spectacular spot on the tip of the Llyˆn Peninsula, with far-reaching views from Porth Neigwl across Cardigan Bay (Porth Neigwl’s English name, Hell’s Mouth, might give you a clue to its savage beauty). Even closer to home, Plas yn Rhiw’s delightful ornamental garden contains many flowering trees and shrubs, with beds framed by box hedges and grass paths. A gem! www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ plas-yn-rhiw

Inigo Jones Slate Works, Porthmadog Maritime Y Groeslon, near Museum Caernarfon

In a nutshell. It’s a new National Trust interpretation centre (scheduled to open in March) on the tip of the Llyˆn Peninsula.

Simply designed and taking its inspiration from Aberdaron’s architecture and maritime past, it will act as a gateway to Llyˆn’s many unique features and rich cultural heritage.

Why go? The name almost says it all. Porth y Swnt means ‘Gateway to the Sound’, referring to the stretch of water that separates Aberdaron from Ynys Enlli, Bardsey Island, the ‘Isle of 20,000 Saints’. It’s an echo of the way in which the centre will reveal the story of Llyˆn – its natural and human history, its secret places and how this most Welsh of areas attracted pilgrims from far and wide. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/llynpeninsula

In a nutshell. A company specialising in cultural, craft and walking holidays. There’s no better place for it – Llyˆn is a beautiful, heritage-rich peninsula whose Welsh-speaking communities retain a living connection with Britain’s ancestral past.

Why go? This is grass-roots tourism at its best. Tir y Môr offers personal tours organised by local people. You’ll experience local culture through music and storytelling, see historic sites and discover traditional Welsh skills hands-on by trying them for yourself. Walking holidays on Llyˆn’s coastal path and ancient pilgrims’ routes are also available. www.tirymor.org

Tyˆ Isaf, Beddgelert

Sygun Copper Mine, near Beddgelert

In a nutshell. They’ve been making slate products here for over 150 years, starting with school writing tablets. Today’s large product range includes items for the home and garden made from 500-million-year-old local slate, the best in the world.

Why go? It’s still a proper workshop, not a museum. You can explore the workshop at your own pace on a self-guided tour and try your hand at slate engraving and calligraphy. Afterwards, browse in the attractive, well-stocked shop. www.inigojones.co.uk

In a nutshell. Porthmadog’s bustling harbour was even busier 150 years ago. Discover why at this museum, which tells the story of the port’s shipbuilding and slate exporting heyday.

Appropriately enough, it’s housed in the quayside’s last remaining slate shed.

Why go? Seafaring and the sea runs through Porthmadog’s salty veins. The museum tells you why the port’s Western Ocean Yachts were renowned for their combination of elegance and seaworthiness. Round everything off by hopping on board the narrow-gauge Ffestiniog Railway to trace the journey of slate from mine to port. www.porthmadog maritimemuseum.org.uk

In a nutshell. A remarkable underground experience.

Abandoned in 1903 but now reopened to visitors, Sygun tells the story of Victorian miners.

Nowadays, it’s hard to believe that such gritty industrial heritage exists amongst so much natural beauty.

Why go? Take a self-guided tour of the old workings. See stalactites and stalagmites as well as copper ore veins containing traces of silver and gold. www.syguncoppermine.co.uk

In a nutshell. A charming little cottage, low of beam and dark of stone, in the heart of Beddgelert.

It’s owned by the National Trust, so you’d expect it to be historic – and it certainly is. Grade II listed and dating back to the 17th century, it’s reputedly the oldest building in the village.

Why go? Not just to have a quick look inside but also because it has returned to one of its early roles as a shop – though now it sells an attractive range of local crafts, gifts and produce and well as National Trust items. There’s local information too. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ snowdonia

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FAMILY FUN

King Arthur’s Labyrinth, Corris

Glasfryn Parc, near Pwllheli

In a nutshell. Where to begin?

Think of an activity and there’s a good chance that you can do it here. Go karts, quad bikes, archery, fishing and ten-pin bowling are just some of the things on offer. There’s also a state-of-the-art wakepark packed with exciting features.

Why go? It’s billed as ‘North Wales’s premier action and activity centre’. Enough said. Oh, and there’s an award-winning farm shop and café on site too. www.glasfryn.co.uk

Anglesey Walking Holidays

In a nutshell. You’re in a cave.

On a boat. You float past tableaux and sound-and-light shows that bring Celtic Britain and Arthurian legend to life. There’s also the occasional dragon – not forgetting the underground waterfall.

Why go? Below ground is just the half of it. Back on the surface there’s more legendary storytelling together with intriguing characters in Lost Legends of the Stone Circle, plus shopping at Corris Craft Centre.

And you can go underground for the second time with Corris Mine Explorers. www.kingarthurslabyrinth.co.uk

GreenWood Forest Park, Yr Hwylfan/The Fun Centre, Caernarfon near Caernarfon

In a nutshell. This is one very green attraction, winner of many awards for its eco credentials. But most of all, it’s fun for families, with a mind-boggling range of experiences and rides including Tree-Top Towers, a Barefoot Trail, Crocodile Maze, Forest Theatre and the Green Dragon, the world’s first eco-friendly people-powered rollercoaster.

Why go? See if you can fit all that’s on offer into one day. Bet you can’t. www.greenwood forestpark.co.uk

ACTIVITIES AND OUTDOORS

In a nutshell. The name says it all – well almost. It’s North-west Wales’s biggest indoor adventure play centre, with a huge range of attractions and activities all under one roof.

Why go? For the giant drop slides, ball pools, maze, tubes, climbing nets, play areas, mini electric go karts, laser game arena… is that enough? And adults can escape to the licensed restaurant with patio area. www.thefuncentre.co.uk

In a nutshell. You’ll be in the hands of local experts who pride themselves on their tailor-made holidays on the Anglesey Coast Path. Guided and self-guided walking tours are available (with luggage transfers). Packages vary from 3 to 14 nights, suitable for novices and experienced walkers.

Day tours, cycling and customised packages also available.

Why go? Anglesey’s 125-mile coastline is an official ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ and no one knows it better, every mile of the way, than Anglesey Walking Holidays. www.angleseywalking holidays.com

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go. Outdoor courses also available. www.beaconclimbing.com

Climb Snowdon, Llanberis

In a nutshell. It does what it says. Climb Snowdon is a professionally run Mountain Leading service for groups wishing to climb the highest mountain in Wales and England (don’t worry, it’s more of a walk than a climb). It’s part of RAW Adventures, a company that offers a range of mountain activities and adventures.

Why go? Based at the foot of Snowdon, you’ll be with members of the Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team, no less. They’ll take you to the top in a safe, enjoyable way. www.raw-adventures.co.uk www.climb-snowdon.co.uk

Coed y Brenin Forest Park, near Dolgellau

Beacon Climbing Centre, Caernarfon

In a nutshell. It’s a big indoor centre with all kinds of challenges, from a 56ft-high climbing wall to something that’s entirely off-the-wall – the world’s first CrazyClimb, a wacky series of fun climbing routes (including one that’s like shinning up a drainpipe).

There’s also a bouldering area and café.

Why go? For a great climbing experience, whatever the weather.

There are taster sessions and tuition for beginners, while experienced climbers just have to register and up, up and away they

In a nutshell. Coed y Brenin is the ultimate all-action forest. Walkers came first. Then – and this is what really put the forest on the map – mountain bikers arrived. It’s now a fully fledged activity centre, with an attractive visitor centre, café, bike shop, children’s play areas, high-ropes adventure, geocaching, facilities for visitors with disabilities – and miles and miles of biking and walking trails for everyone, from families to muddy MB enthusiasts.

Why go? If you’re into the outdoors you’d be daft not to. There’s something to do for everyone. www.forestry.gov.uk/ coedybrenin

For more attractions and activities see overleaf

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

22 Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

Fairbourne Golf Club

In a nutshell. This nine-hole par 3 course is challenging for experienced golfers yet offers a great day out for beginners too.

But don’t be distracted by the views – they are gorgeous, looking out across the stunning Mawddach Estuary and the mountains of southern Snowdonia.

Why go? Links golf is a speciality in Wales – and so is something called ‘golf as it should be’, which is all about golf played in the true spirit of the game on friendly courses. Just about sums up Fairbourne, really. www.fairbournegolfclub.co.uk

Go Ape!, Coed y Brenin Forest Park

Go Below Underground Adventures, Conwy Falls Café, near Betws-y-Coed

Why go? As they say in all the best sports psychology books, you really need ‘to bring out your inner ape’ (or is that chimp?). Whatever, you’ll have a wonderfully woody adventure in one of the UK’s loveliest forests. www.goape.co.uk

Why go? The company is run by a fully qualified mountaineering instructor and Mount Everest climber, so you’re in good hands. Mountain adventures and courses to suit all levels of experience, tailor made for you. www.snowdonia walkingandclimbing.co.uk

Tree Top Adventure (Betws-y-Coed) and Zip World (Bethesda) In a nutshell. Exhilarating guided adventure trips into the spectacular subterranean world of an abandoned slate mine. Brave a series of fun challenges as you journey through cavernous chambers and across forgotten blue lakes. No experience necessary, equipment provided.

Why go? It’s mine exploring with attitude. You’ll be abseiling, zip-lining, scrambling, boating and climbing a waterfall – all beneath the surface. You can even experience the ultimate descent to the deepest point in Northwest Wales. Open in all weathers. www.go-below.co.uk

PaintballWales.com, Llanddeiniolen, near Llanberis

In a nutshell. You’re climbing, balancing, riding and clambering high up in the trees, encountering all manner of aerial challenges including zip wires, Tarzan swings, rope ladders and a variety of obstacles. But with your safety harness and by following the correct procedures there’s no fear of falling.

Snowdonia Riding Stables, Waunfawr, near Caernarfon

In a nutshell. It’s paintballing, but possibly not as you might know it. As well as the typical woodland-based game (which has been around for quite some time) the company offers ‘speed ball’ tournament-style paintballing and scenario-based games with themes like ‘Celtic Fort’ and ‘Haunted Graveyard’.

Why go? Paintball Wales takes the game to a new, inventive level. And the tournament- and scenario-style games are very spectator-friendly too. www.paintballwales.com

In a nutshell. Go riding and trekking in the foothills of Snowdonia through fabulous mountain and coastal scenery.

Complete beginners and competent riders are equally welcome, with a choice of everything from introductory sessions to full-day treks deep into the mountains.

Why go? Always wanted to explore the hills on horseback?

Now’s your chance, on rides guided by experienced trek leaders from this long-established centre. Please pre-book. www.snowdoniaridingstables. co.uk

Snowdonia Walking and Climbing, Bethesda

In a nutshell. A one-stop shop for all kinds of mountain experiences in North Wales – guided mountain walks, scrambling and climbing as well as courses in all aspects of mountaineering. Learn to rock climb and be taught about mountain safety with an experienced instructor.

In a nutshell. Two exciting high-wire attractions. Tree Top is a high-ropes adventure course that gives you a big buzz without the fear of falling. But are you up for the challenge of the world’s highest powerfan parachute plummet and Sky Ride, Europe’s highest giant swing? Zip World at Penrhyn Quarry, Bethesda, is the new kid on the block. It has already made headlines for its breathtaking 100mph zip wire ride – at over a mile it’s the longest in Europe.

Why go? Tree Top is suitable for almost everyone, from families to fun-seeking groups. And find out why Zip World, which only opened last year, has become an instant ‘must do’ when in Snowdonia Mountains and Coast. www.ttadventure.co.uk www.zipworld.co.uk

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WHAT MORE WOULD YOU LIKE TO DO? gardens, a combination of South Seas romance and Rain Forest fecundity. Sir Clough also poured his unstoppable imagination into nearby Plas Brondanw’s gardens, Llanfrothen. Another village – the Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth – is a living example of how we can all adopt green technology and better use the planet’s natural resources.

Centre Ce ntrree fo nt orr A Alt lltteerrnaati tivee Tec echn hnol hn olog ol oggy o

Be inspired. You’ve come to the right place for green spaces and green experiences. Mind you, in the Conwy Valley green is just one of the many shades at technicolour Bodnant Garden. It’s a favourite with National Trust members (if yellow is your colour come in late May/ early June for its famous Laburnum Arch).

Sir Clough-Williams Ellis wasn’t just an inspirational architect. His Italianate village of Portmeirion also boasts amazing

Be serene as well as green.

The Green Flag, the highest accolade for parks and open spaces, flies over 800-acre Padarn Country Park, Llanberis. As well as soaking up some of the loveliest scenery in North Wales you’ll find a nature reserve with woodland- and water-based Sites of Special Scientific Interest. The flag also waves over Ynysmaengwyn Park near Tywyn, restored estate grounds and woodland with walks, a wealth of historic features and superb views across southern Snowdonia.

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Llyn yn Pad darrn n,, Lla lanb nberis

Be active.

Indoor and outdoor, any time of the year… wherever you stay, you won’t be far from one of our sports and leisure centres. Many have indoor pools and most have sports halls, squash and badminton courts and outside sporting facilities (tennis courts etc). Some also have climbing walls.

Arfon Leisure Centre (Caernarfon), Arfon Tennis Centre (Caernarfon), Bangor Leisure Centre, Bangor Swimming Pool, Bro Dysynni Leisure Centre (Tywyn), Bro Ffestiniog Sports Hall, Bro Ffestiniog Swimming Pool, Dwyfor Leisure Centre (Pwllheli), Dyffryn Conwy Leisure Centre (Llanrwst), Glan Wnion Leisure Centre (Dolgellau), Glaslyn Leisure Centre (Porthmadog), Hamdden Harlech and Ardudwy Leisure Centre, Llandudno Junction Leisure Centre, Llanrwst Swimming Pool, Pavilion Leisure Centre (Barmouth), Penllyn Leisure Centre (Bala), Plas Ffrancon Leisure Centre (Bethesda) and Plas Silyn Leisure Centre (Penygroes).

Be appy.

Download free apps from APPrentis, a scheme that encourages small businesses to make the most of new technology. www.visitsnowdonia.info/apps/ APPrentis

Be prepared.

It’s easy to plan do-ityourself days out. Take a look at our website for great itinerary ideas covering everything from family fun days to activity breaks. If you still can’t find what you’re looking for and need fresh ideas please get in touch.

See the back cover for a full list of Tourist Information Centres.

Bo odn d an a t Gaard deen n

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

24 To avoid disappointment please check all opening times direct with the attraction or activity provider before travelling.

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Snowdonia Riding Stables

Inigo Jones Slate Works

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Weirglodd Fawr, Waunfawr, Caernarfon LL55 4PQ T: 01286 650342 snowdonia.riding@btconnect.com www.snowdoniaridingstables.co.uk Renee Z Thomas

Y Groeslon, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL54 7UE T: 01286 830242 F: 01286 831247 slate@inigojones.co.uk www.inigojones.co.uk

See Snowdonia from the saddle, it's a different world! Treat yourself to superb riding in magnificent mountain scenery. Graded rides to suit complete beginners to competent riders.

Established over 35 years, with a wealth of experience. We are approved by the British Horse Society and the Pony Club.

Self guided tour of works includes geological historical calligraphy and letter cutting exhibitions.

Opportunity to try calligraphy and cutting on a piece of slate that you get to keep as a souvenir.

Quality slate products and other Welsh gifts available. Cafe on site and plenty of free parking.

Months open: 1–12; Days open: Mon–Sun; Hours open: 9.30am–5pm

Months open:1–12; Days open: Mon–Sun; Hours open: 9am–5pm; Adults £5; Children & Concessions £4.50; Family (2 adults + 2 children) £15.00

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Trefriw Woollen Mills Main Road, Trefriw, Conwy Valley LL27 0NQ T: 01492 640462 info@t-w-m.co.uk www.t-w-m.co.uk

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See the weaving and water turbine. Visit our shop to purchase Welsh tapestry bedspreads, tweeds and travel rugs woven on site plus garments, accessories and soft furnishings in our fabrics.

Mill Museum (carding engines, spinning mules etc.) and weaver’s garden can be viewed April – October (Monday – Friday).

Months open: 2–12; Days open: Weaving: Mon–Fri 10am–1pm and 2pm–5pm; Hours open: Shop open all year Mon–Sat 10am–5pm (+ Sundays Easter–Oct) Admission: Free (regret no school parties) k } ß Z * ß

beacon

Award-winning company offering cycling and walking packages on Anglesey and the North Wales Coast – Part of the Wales Coast Path. Included: Accommodations, transfers, maps, routes, 24h back up service.

Beddgelert, Gwynedd, LL55 4NE. Tel: 01766 890595 www.syguncoppermine.co.uk

Anglesey Boat Trips

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Open all year weekdays 10am-10pm weekends 10am-8pm www.beaconclimbing.com Beacon Climbing Centre | Cibyn Estate | Caernarfon | LL55 2BD 40 High Street, Menai Bridge LL59 5EF T: 01248 716 335 info@seawake.co.uk www.angleseyboattrips.com Come and explore the beautiful coastline of Anglesey and the Menai Strait on one of our powerboat trips. We depart everyday from Dinorwic Marina Felinheli mid-way between Caernarfon and Bangor. Trips from 1 hour to 4 hours and from £20 to £150 per person. 01248 716 335. www.angleseyboattrips.com

01758 612251 www.shearwatercruises.com

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3 Penrallt, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5LP T: 01248 713611 info@angleseywalkingholidays.com www.angleseywalkingholidays.com

climbing centre

Shearwater Coastal Cruises

Anglesey Walking Holidays

Months open:1–12; Days open: Mon–Sun; Hours open: 10am–6pm

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Climb Snowdon (with RAW Adventures)

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Llys Awel, Nant Peris, Caernarfon LL55 4UE T: 01286 872102 info@raw-adventures.co.uk www.climb-snowdon.co.uk Climb Snowdon! Local mountain activities company organising guided walks for individuals, groups, families, charities and corporate teams.

Experienced, qualified, local Mountain Leaders will look after you. Summer and winter dates.

From £35 per person. Climb Snowdon is operated

by Kate and Ross Worthington from RAW Adventures Mountain Activities Ltd.

Months open:1–12; Days open: Mon–Sun; Hours open: 8am–6pm.

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Yr Hwylfan/The Fun Centre Bangor Street, Caernarfon LL55 1AR T: 01286 671911 info@thefuncentre.co.uk www.thefuncentre.co.uk

The fun centre, 1400 sq ft of family fun all under one roof. Including 25ft high drop slides, ball pools, bridges, nets, tumble towers, spinning steps, dark maze and much more... separate under 5s play area. Laser Space Sport area.

Mini Go-Carts. Licensed family friendly restaurant, museum and outside patio area.

Months open: 1–12; Days open: Mon–Sun; Hours open: Variable

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www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

26 To avoid disappointment please check all opening times direct with the attraction or activity provider before travelling.

Porthmadog Maritime Museum Slate to the Sea The fascinating story of the ships and seafaring tradition of the area.

Find us at the harbour in Porthmadog.

Plasdy bychan hyfryd o’r 17eg ganrif, mewn gardd addurniadol hardd, da golygfeydd gwych dros Borth Neigwl a Bae Ceredigion.

Activities for children Open Daily (not Mondays and Fridays out of season) 12pm to 4pm For details visit our website

www.porthmadogmaritimemuseum.org.uk Follow us on Facebook

Tir y Môr Holidays

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Rhoshirwaun, Aberdaron, Pwllheli LL53 8HS T: 01758 780280 jacquie@felinuchaf.org www.tirymor.org At Tir y Môr holidays we invite you to discover our home – the beautiful Llyˆn peninsula. Discover our landscape and heritage through personal tours organised by local people. Discover our culture through Welsh music and storytelling.

Discover traditional Welsh skills by learning them for yourself.

Our accommodation is comfortable and all meals are inclusive and provided by an in house chef.

Felin Uchaf

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Rhoshirwaun, Pwllheli LL53 8HS Tel: 01758 780280 felinuchaf@tiscali.co.uk www.felinuchaf.org Visit our round houses, hand-raised barns, organic garden and our new eco-designed visitor centre, all in beautiful surroundings. Built entirely by volunteers, Felin Uchaf showcases that sustainable living works.

Exciting activity schedule – see website for details.

Months open:1–12 From Easter 2014; Days open: Mon–Fri; Hours open: 10am–4pm } % ] ßZ * ß h_

Months open:1–12

Plas yn Rhiw

Plas Glyn-y-Weddw Arts Centre

Am ragor o wybodaeth / for more info: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/plas-yn-rhiw

Small 17th century manor house nestled in a delightful ornamental garden, with spectacular views over Hell’s Mouth and Cardigan Bay. Llun / Image © NT Images / Joe Cornish

Porth y Swnt Yn Goleuo diwylliant, treftadaeth ac am lchedd unigryw'r Ll n.

Dewch i gael eich ysbrydoli ac i archwilio mwy… pwy a yr lle fydd y siwrne’n mynd a chi?

Am ragor o wybodaeth / for more info: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/llyn-peninsula

Shinning a light on Ll n’s unique culture, heritage and environment.

Get inspired to explore… who knows where the journey will take you?

Llun / Image © NT Images / Joe Cornish

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Llanbedrog, Pwllheli, Gwynedd LL53 7TT T: 01758 740 763 enquiry@oriel.org.uk www.oriel.org.uk Plas Glyn-y-Weddw attracts over 130,000 people annually to its exhibitions and packed programme of arts and heritage events. A new open air theatre along with over 3Km of walking trails in the surroundinhg 12-acre ‘Winllan’ woodland makes a visit to Wales’s oldest art gallery a must in 2014!

Months open: 2–12; Days open: Mon–Sun May–Oct, closed Tuesdays Oct–May; Hours open: 10am–5pm

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Siop T Isaf Shop Dewch i ymweld ag ein siop unigryw yn ganol Beddgelert, bwthyn hen asiwn o’r 17eg ganrif llawn cymeriad a chre tau lleol prydferth.

Visit our unique shop at the heart of Beddgelert, a quaint 17th century cottage brimming with character and beautiful local crafts.

Am ragor o wybodaeth / for more info: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/snowdonia

Llun / Image © NT Images

Fairbourne Golf Club

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Penrhyn Drive North, Fairbourne, Gwynedd LL38 2DJ T: 01341 250979 fairbournegolf@btinternet.com www.fairbournegolfclub.co.uk Enjoy our 9 hole par 3 course by the sea surrounded by magnificent scenery.

Clubs and balls for hire. Enjoy a bite to eat or drink in our licensed clubhouse.

9 hole fees (non members): Adults £5, Children £3.

Months open: Course 1–12; Club hire/Restaurant open: 4–9; Hours open: Restaurant 10am–4pm

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PAINTBALLWALES.COM

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Warrior Woods, Llanddeiniolen, Gwynedd LL57 4EE T: 01248 880088 M: 07557 340000 info@PaintballWales.com www.PaintballWales.com Top venue in North Wales for birthdays, stag do’s and outdoor family fun!

Excitement, adrenaline, adventure.

Best game zones, equipment and prices!

Play VIP style!..without the VIP price tag!!

Follow us on facebook.com/paintballwales.

To avoid disappointment please check all opening times direct with the attraction or activity provider before travelling. 27

20% OFF PER* at Coed-y-Brenin Snowdonia

e.co.uk3 at goap Book WFF or call 0845 094 875

Quote: SNO

um height: 1.40m.

Minimum age: 10 years. Minim Supervision ratios apply.

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*Valid unil 30th Nov 2014, exclud

Electric Mountain Visitor Centre

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Llanberis, Gwynedd LL55 4UR T: 01286 870636 F:01286 873002 info@electricmountain.co.uk www.electricmountain.co.uk Tours of the Dinorwig Power Station make for a fascinating experience. An underground tour inside Elidir Mountain is like a film set for a James Bond movie. The vast chambers and tunnels so big you can drive a bus through them, which is a good job, since you’ll be on it!

Months open:1–12; Days open: Visitor centre open all year round. Tours operate Easter–End of October daily. All other times select days only; Hours open: Jan– May & Sept–Dec 10am–4.30pm; Jul–Aug & main school holidays 9.30am–5.30pm.

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www.cyfoethnaturiolcymru.gov.uk www.naturalresourceswales.gov.uk

Parc Coedwig

Coed y Brenin Forest Park // Caffi yn defnyddio cynnyrch lleol, gyda golygfeydd o’r goedwig // Llogi a phrynu beiciau // Maes chwarae antur // Her ac antur i fyny yn y coed // Mynediad, llwybrau a chyfleusterau pob gallu // Cyfleusterau Cynadleddau // 8 milltir i’r gogledd o Ddolgellau // Forest view café using local produce // Bike hire and retail // Adventure playground // Challenge & adventure up in the trees // All ability access, walks & facilities // Conference facilities // 8 miles north of Dolgellau Dolgefeiliau, Dolgellau LL40 2HZ ffôn / tel: 01341 440 747

www.forestry.gov.uk/coedybrenin

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

28 To avoid disappointment please check all opening times direct with the attraction or activity provider before travelling.

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The Narrow Gauge Railway Museum Wharf Station, Neptune Road, Tywyn LL36 9EY T: 01656 710472 curator@ngrm.org.uk www.ngrm.org.uk

Explore the world of the narrow gauge from industrial steam locomotives to the charm of the Irish rural railways. Learn about the Reverend Awdry and his railway stories for children.

Should you wish you can take a ride on the World’s First Preserved Railway which runs from our front door.

See webite for Railway Museum details. Admission: Free

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Welsh Highland Heritage Railway The Station, Tremadog Road, Porthmadog LL49 9HT T: 01766 513402 info@whr.co.uk www.whr.co.uk

Award-winning family orientated all weather attraction packed with things to do and see for children and adults alike. Ride on a historic narrow gauge and miniature railway or go to the interactive heritage centre where you can climb on railway engines! Gift shop and period tea room.

Tickets valid all day.

Months open: April – October; Days open: Daily 7 days a week; Hours open: 9.30am – 5pm; See website for timetable; Adult £7.50, Child £3.75, Concession £6, Family £18.50

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SNOWDON MOUNTAIN RAILWAY

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RHEILFFORDD YR WYDDFA

Ride on Britain’s highest rack railway in style and comfort in 2014.

Prices held for 2014

Avoid disappointment and pre-book your tickets

www.snowdonrailway.co.uk Please check website for opening times and conditions.

Corris Railway & Museum

7F Station Yard, Corris, Machynlleth SY20 9SH T: 01654 761303 enquiries@corris.co.uk www.corris.co.uk Steam gently down the beautiful Dulas Valley in an observation carriage on our family friendly railway. See interesting projects in the workshops, then visit our free museum and shop. Ideal to visit nearby Corris. “A small railway with a big ambition”. We look forward to greeting you.

Months open: Easter – October; Days open: selected; Trains: hourly 11am–4pm. Free admission to Museum and shop.

Fares for train ride. _

To avoid disappointment please check all opening times direct with the attraction or activity provider before travelling. 29

Tywyn & the Talyllyn Railway

Check out the web cam to see how the weather is on the Tywyn coast.

www.tywynctc.co.uk Tywyn is situated in Mid Wales on the coast of Cardigan Bay. The ‘Blue Flag’ beach is ideal for all types of water sports. The sea is teaming with marine life and dolphins can often be seen swimming a few metres off the beach.

Surrounded by stunning countryside and abundant bird life the natural beauty is breathtaking. The ‘All Wales Coastal Path’ runs through Tywyn with the newly opened Pont Tonfanau bridge completing the path.

The superbly restored Talyllyn Railway steams in and out of Tywyn up the valley to Nant Gwernol daily from Easter to October with special trains running at Christmas. There is the award winning Narrow Gauge Railway Museum and King’s restaurant at Wharf station also make a visit to the Talyllyn Railway an experience to remember.

info@tywynctc.co.uk

www.talyllyn.co.uk Tel: 01654 710472

Antur Stiniog www.anturstiniog.com

Prysor Angling Llyn Trawsfynydd Lake

Ymunwch â ni ar un Antur Fawr

www.llyntraws.com

Join us for one Big Adventure Coed y Brenin www.forestry.gov.uk/ coedybrenin

www.ymweldageryri.info/unanturfawr www.visitsnowdonia.info/onebigadventure

Yn gweithio mewn partneriaeth â Chyngor Gwynedd. Partneriaeth Twristiaeth Canolbarth Cymru, Cyfoeth Naturiol Cymru, Urdd Gobaith Cymru, Cymdeithas Pysgota Prysor, Antur Stiniog, Awdurdod Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri a’r Awdurdod Datgomisiynu Niwclear.

Glan Llyn www.urdd.org/glan-llyn

Working in partnership with Gwynedd Council, Tourism Partnership Mid Wales, Natural Resources Wales, Urdd Gobaith Cymru, Prysor Angling Association, Antur Stiniog, Snowdonia National Park Authority and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority.

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

30 To avoid disappointment please check all opening times direct with the attraction or activity provider before travelling.

Conwy Valley Line Explore the beautiful Conwy Valley by rail, running south from Llandudno to Blaenau Ffestiniog calling at picturesque towns like Llanrwst and Betws-y-Coed. www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk www.conwyvalleyrailway.co.uk

32 Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

WHAT’S HAPPENING 2014 Here’s a run-down of some of the festivals and events taking place in Snowdonia Mountains and Coast in 2014. For more details and an updated events list visit our website or contact local Tourist Information Centres (see back cover).

Please note: This list was compiled November 2013 and details may have changed, so please check dates and times if you’re planning to attend an event.

JANUARY

19–21: Easter Activities, Conwy www.conwytownevents.co.uk

25–26: Winter Challenge Road Rally www.northwalescarclub.co.uk

20: Easter Sunday Event, Caernarfon (music, Victorian fair, local produce market) 01286 672232

FEBRUARY 28–2 March: Monster Record Breaking Weekend in Bala www.visitbala.org

MARCH 1: St David’s Day Celebrations, Caernarfon (food, local produce market, music & dance) 01286 672232 8–9: 420 Selectors Sailing Championships, Pwllheli Sailing Club www.pwllhelisailingclub.co.uk

21: Tywyn Fair 01654 767321 26–27: Welsh Youth Championships, Pwllheli Sailing Club www.pwllhelisailingclub.co.uk 27: Gran Fondo Conwy Cycle Sportive www.alwaysaimhighevents.com

MAY 3–5: Craft Fair, Electric Mountain, Llanberis www.celticfayres.co.uk

12–15: Bangor New Music Festival www.bnmf.co.uk

3–5: ‘Your Railway Adventure’, Ffestiniog Railway, Porthmadog www.festrail.co.uk

22–23: Dance & Arts Festival, Conwy www.conwytownevents.co.uk

5: Sioe Nefyn Show www.sioenefynshow.com

26: Conwy Seed Fair www.conwybeekeepers.org.uk

10: Bala Challenge Charity Walk www.abercelyn.co.uk

27–30: Sci-Fi Weekender, Pwllheli www.scifiweekender.com

10–11: Living History Weekend, Conwy www.conwytownevents.co.uk

29–30: British Downhill Mountain Bike Series, Blaenau Ffestiniog www.anturstiniog.com

15–18: Trefriw Walking Festival 07901 628367 www.trefriwwalkingfestival.co.uk

APRIL 5: Mawddach Gold Rush Trial Race, Coed y Brenin, Dolgellau www.mawddachgoldrush.com 5–6: Knights and Princesses, Conwy www.conwytownevents.co.uk 6: Snowdonia Half Marathon, Llanrwst www.runwales.com 19: Ras y Moelwyn (The Moelwyn Race), Blaenau Ffestiniog www.anturstiniog.com

16-18: Rail Ale 10th-Anniversary Beer Festival, Welsh Highland Railway, Caernarfon www.festrail.co.uk 17–18: Snowdonia Slateman Triathlon, Llanberis www.snowdoniaslateman.com 18: Rowen Village Gardens Open Day www.rowen.org.uk 23: Ffair Cricieth Fair 01766 512981 24–27: Conwy Celtic Fayre www.celticfayres.co.uk

25: Music on the Maes, Caernarfon 01286 672232 26–31: Urdd National Eisteddfod, Bala www.urdd.org 29: Jazz Train, Ffestiniog Railway, Porthmadog www.festrail.co.uk 31: Abersoch 10k www.abersoch10k.com 30–1 June: All Wales Boat Show, Conwy Marina www.allwalesboatshow.com 31–1 June: Mawddach Paddlesports Festival, Barmouth & Penmaenpool www.paddlewales.com

JUNE 1: Great Strait Raft Run, Y Felinheli www.greatstraitraftrun.co.uk 4–7: Three Castles Welsh Classic Trial (various locations) www.three-castles.co.uk 7: Three Peaks Yacht Race, Barmouth www.threepeaksyachtrace.co.uk 8: Middle Distance Triathlon, Bala www.wrecsamtri.org.uk 14: Etape Eryri – The Snowdonia Sportive, Caernarfon www.etapeeryri.com 14–15: Snowdonia Arts Festival, Betws-y-Coed www.snowdoniaartsfestival.org.uk 14–22: Cricieth Festival www.cricciethfestival.co.uk 21: Trail Marathon Wales, Coed y Brenin, Dolgellau www.trailmarathonwales.com 28: Barmouth Fun Day 01341 280787 28–29: Pirate Festival, Conwy www.conwypirates.co.uk 30: Ffair Cricieth Fair 01766 512981

JULY 2–9: Conwy Walking Week 01492 576012 4–6: Laser Masters UK Nationals 2014, Pwllheli Sailing Club www.pwllhelisailingclub.co.uk 4–6: Wakestock, Abersoch & Pwllheli www.wakestock.co.uk

Gwyliau a Digwyddiadau

33

5: North Wales Agricultural Show, Caernarfon www.caernarfonshow.com

15–16: Glass Butter Beach, Llanbedrog (alternative sports plus music festival) www.glassbutterbeach.com

27–28: Laser Qualifier, Pwllheli Sailing Club www.pwllhelisailingclub.co.uk

5–6: Barmouth Country & Western Festival www.barmouthcountrymusicfestival.co.uk

16: Race the Train, Tywyn www.racethetrain.com

OCTOBER

16: Sioe Wledig Llanrwst Rural Show www.sioe-llanrwst-show.com

5: Snowman Triathlon, Capel Curig www.snowmantri.com

22–26: Craft Fair, Electric Mountain, Llanberis www.celticfayres.co.uk

10–12: Victorian Weekend, Ffestiniog Railway, Porthmadog www.festrail.co.uk

23: Arthog Show 01341 280787

18: Bangor 10k www.runwales.com

23: Beddgelert Dog Show 01766 512981

18: Cambrian Rally, Llandudno & the Conwy Valley www.cambrianrally.co.uk

12–13: Barmouth Kite Festival www.barrikiteflyers.com 12–13: Drum House Ffest, Blaenau Ffestiniog www.anturstiniog.com 17–22: Craft Fair, Electric Mountain, Llanberis www.celticfayres.co.uk 19: Cymru Trial Rally, Llangernyw www.northwalescarclub.co.uk

23: Pennal Show 01341 280787

19: International Snowdon Race, Llanberis www.snowdonrace.co.uk

23: Sioe Dinas Mawddwy Show 01341 280787

19–20: Living History Weekend, Conwy www.conwytownevents.co.uk 19–27: Gwˆ yl Caernarfon Festival www.caernarfononline.co.uk 20–25: Dinghy Week, Abersoch www.scyc.co.uk 20–26: Conwy Classical Music Festival www.conwyclassicalmusic.co.uk 26–27: Pwllheli International Optimist Regatta www.pwllhelisailingclub.co.uk 30–3 August: Conwy Celtic Fayre www.celticfayres.co.uk 31: Jazz Train, Ffestiniog Railway, Porthmadog www.festrail.co.uk

AUGUST 2–8: Topper Nationals, Pwllheli Sailing Club www.pwllhelisailingclub.co.uk 9: Eglwysbach Show www.eglwysbachshow.co.uk 9–10: Fairies & Dragons Weekend, Conwy www.conwytownevents.co.uk 9–12: Abersoch Regatta www.scyc.co.uk 9–15: Topper Worlds 2014, Pwllheli Sailing Club www.pwllhelisailingclub.co.uk 9–17: Conwy River Festival www.conwyriverfestival.org

24: Wild Wales Challenge, Bala www.wildwaleschallenge.com

25–26: Barmouth Motocross Weekend www.wildenmxc.co.uk 25–26: Gwledd Conwy Feast www.conwyfeast.com

25: Caernarfon Past & Present 01286 672232

29–31: Halloween Trains, Ffestiniog Railway, Porthmadog www.festrail.co.uk

27: Meirionnydd County Show, Bala www.sioesir.co.uk

31: Halloween Event, Conwy www.conwytownevents.co.uk

28–31: Conwy Celtic Fayre www.celticfayres.co.uk

31: Halloween Train, Welsh Highland Railway, Caernarfon www.festrail.co.uk

31: Open Water Swim, Abersoch www.scyc.co.uk

SEPTEMBER 5–7: Festival No: 6, Portmeirion www.festivalnumber6.com

NOVEMBER 7: Dylan Thomas’s Full Moon Walk, Cricieth Castle www.cadw.wales.gov.uk 8–9: Christmas Gift Fayre, Conwy www.conwytownevents.co.uk

6: Cerrigydrudion Show www.cerrigshow.co.uk 6–7: 29er Grand Prix, Pwllheli Sailing Club www.pwllhelisailingclub.co.uk 6–7: Signing of Conwy Charter Anniversary & Jester Weekend www.conwytownevents.co.uk 6–13: Barmouth Arts Festival www.barmouthartsfestival.co.uk 7: Bala Distance Triathlon www.wrecsamtri.org.uk 12–14: Super Power Steam, Welsh Highland Railway, Caernarfon www.festrail.co.uk

13–16: Wales Rally GB (various venues in North Wales) www.walesrallygb.com

DECEMBER 6: Medieval Christmas Event, Conwy www.conwymedievalchristmas.co.uk 6–7: Nadolig Betws-y-Coed Christmas www.nadoligbetws.co.uk 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 & 21: Santa Trains, Welsh Highland Railway, Caernarfon www.festrail.co.uk

13–21: Barmouth Walking Festival www.barmouthwalkingfestival.co.uk

13, 14, 20 & 21: Victorian Santa Trains, Ffestiniog Railway, Porthmadog www.festrail.co.uk

20: Brutal Triathlon, Llanberis www.thebrutal.co.uk

14: Christmas Celebration, Caernarfon 01286 672232

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

34 Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

AROUND AND ABOUT To link in with the way we’ve organised the accommodation adverts starting on page 46 we’ve split Snowdonia Mountains and Coast into six areas. Here’s an introduction to each.

CRICIETH, PORTHMADOG AND THE VALE OF FFESTINIOG There’s coast – the southern shores of the Llyˆn Peninsula and the hauntingly beautiful Dwyryd Estuary. And there’s country – lots of it, including chunks of Snowdonia and the wooded Vale of Ffestiniog. So you’re not short of scenery. It’s the same when it comes to attractions and places to visit – this part of Wales is especially rich in history, heritage and culture.

BLAENAU FFESTINIOG Former ‘slate capital of the world’ with a strange, compelling beauty, abundant in cultural tourism. Screes of broken slate tumble down steep-sided mountains, mixing with Snowdonia’s natural grandeur.

Glimpse into Blaenau’s unique history at the Llechwedd Slate Caverns, one of Wales’s most successful tourist attractions (its recently enhanced Deep Mine tour is now more spectacular than ever). Town centre improvements have revitalised the shopping area, and words, sayings,

quarrying terms and local poetry have been inscribed into the streetscape – see the excellent interpretive booklet available locally or online at www.blaenauffestiniog. org/poetry (you can also download a sound file to your smartphone). Make a day of it and travel here by the narrow-gauge Ffestiniog Railway from Porthmadog. Bring the bike: the new Antur Stiniog cycle tracks – including thrilling downhill trails – attract rave reviews. There’s more thrilling news.

April 2014 sees the opening of Zip World Llechwedd, the world’s largest zip zone which includes the UK’s first underground zip wire adventure park.

C ic Cr icie ieth ie t th

BORTH-Y-GEST Small, picturesque harbour village, the seaside arm of nearby Porthmadog.

Beautiful estuary and mountain views. An enticing introduction to Llyˆn. Morfa Bychan and Black Rock Sands are nearby.

CRICIETH Victorian charm comes to the seaside – with a medieval castle thrown in for good measure. Cricieth’s two beaches are separated by a headland fortress with a fascinating, forceful history. The resort is full of Victorian character – and flowers.

Numerous restaurants and quality hotels, many with dreamy views across Cardigan Bay. Perfect spot for exploring Snowdonia’s mountains and the Llyˆn Peninsula. Excellent coarse fishing nearby at Bron Eifion’s sixacre lake. Princes of Gwynedd exhibition in the castle.

Cricieth, Porthmadog a Dyffryn Ffestiniog

LLANYSTUMDWY Small village near Cricieth, boyhood home of David Lloyd George. Village has a museum dedicated to one of the greatest statesmen of the 20th century – he introduced the old-age pension, led the country as Prime Minister during World War One, and gave women the vote. Also home to Tyˆ Newydd National Writers’ Centre for Wales. Dwyfor Ranch Rabbit Farm/Animal Park and Dragon Raiders Paintball both close by.

the story of the town’s rapid 19th-century growth into a thriving slate exporting and shipbuilding port for handsome threemasted schooners known as Western Ocean Yachts. Porthmadog’s best-loved landmark is The Cob, a mile-long embankment across the estuary that shaped the destiny of the town. Porthmadog is a good base for walkers and cyclists – follow the Llyˆn Coastal Path and Lôn Ardudwy bike route.

The town itself is an attractive place to explore on foot, especially since a bypass has taken much of the traffic away from the centre.

TRAWSFYNYDD

LLllan anys anys y tu tumd dwy wy

PORTHMADOG Busy harbour town with a good range of shops and attractions, including nearby Portmeirion. You can’t keep narrow-gauge railway enthusiasts away. Porthmadog is a major hub, with no less than three lines − the Ffestiniog (running to Blaenau Ffestiniog), the shorter Welsh Highland Heritage (with its excellent hands-on railway museum) and the similarly named but separate Welsh Highland (running all the way to Caernarfon). Actually, there are four, for the Welsh Highland Heritage also has a tiny miniature line which uses coal from its bigger brother broken down into smaller lumps! Trains were not the only mode of transport in Porthmadog’s history as an important hub based on the slate industry. The town’s Maritime Museum tells

Another well-located walking and cycling base close to mountains and the trails in the Coed y Brenin Forest Park. There are waterbus boat trips on Llyn Trawsfynydd, and a new building and jetty for users of the lake and its surroundings, including anglers, kayakers, cyclists, walkers and birdwatchers.

Visit Llys Ednowain Hostel and Heritage Centre which gives a glimpse into local culture and the Trawsfynydd of old. New Ein Treftadaeth – Our Heritage information hub and Tomen-y-Mur Roman Fort. Yr Ysgwrn, farmhouse home of poet Hedd Wyn who died in World War One, open by appointment (contact Snowdonia National Park on 01766 770274 or yrysgwrn@eryri-npa.gov.uk).

TREMADOG Architecturally pleasing village with elegant, spacious town square, created by 19thcentury entrepreneur William Madocks (who also built The Cob at Porthmadog).

Birthplace of TE Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia). Good choice of places to eat locally.

35

Snowdon Blaenau Ffestiniog Tremadog 3 2 Cricieth Porthmadog 4 Borth-y-Gest Llanystumdwy 5

1

Trawsfynydd

Editor’s choice – five top attractions (there are lots more) 1 Go big in Blaenau. The former ‘slate capital’ of Blaenau Ffestiniog is reinventing itself. There’s a remodelled town centre plus spectacular new mountain biking trails and Zip World with underground adventure park (the latter scheduled to open April 2014). And the past lives on at Llechwedd Slate Caverns.

2 Explore all of Portmeirion.

Not just the architecture in this ‘dream village’, but its equally amazing grounds and gardens.

3 Railway mania. A trio of attractions all in one place – Porthmadog’s three heritage railways.

4 Cricieth Castle. A monument to medieval strife, with fascinating Princes of Gwynedd exhibition.

5 On the beach. Plenty of choice here, including vast Black Rock Sands.

You’ve read all about it – now take a look at and book your accommodation (see pages 46–50).

Link up www.anturstiniog.com www.blaenauffestiniog.org www.icriccieth.co.uk www.llanystumdwy.com www.porthmadog.co.uk www.trawsfynydd.com

Blaeena Bl nau Ff Ffes e ttiini niogg

For Tourist Information Centres please see back cover

>

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

36 Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

CARDIGAN BAY Along with the Llyˆn Peninsula, Cardigan Bay puts the ‘coast’ into Snowdonia Mountains and Coast. Mountains meet the sea all along this lovely shoreline – but most memorably at two outstandingly beautiful estuaries, Mawddach and Dyfi. There are other highlights aplenty – Harlech Castle, picturesque Aberdyfi and little railways at Fairbourne and Tywyn.

ABERDYFI There are many compelling reasons to visit.

It’s surely one of Britain’s prettiest little seaside resorts. Located where the River Dyfi meets the waters of Cardigan Bay, it’s also a popular sailing and watersports venue. Pastel-coloured terraces front a large sandy beach and quaint old harbour. Golf is also popular at Aberdyfi’s famous links course, one of Wales’s finest. Local museum is dedicated to the port’s shipbuilding past.

ABERGYNOLWYN Pretty, mountain-locked former slate village at one end of the scenic narrow-gauge Talyllyn Railway. Spectacular walking country – Cader Idris is close by, along with the hamlet of Llanfihangel-y-Pennant made famous by Mary Jones who walked barefoot

from here to Bala in 1800 to collect a Welsh Bible. Gentle lakeside walks too, along nearby Llyn Myngul. Just beyond the lake visit Ystradgwyn Chapel Heritage Centre (open twice weekly in summer). Cyclists can follow the Lôn Dysynni cycle route. In the mountains explore Bird Rock and the moody ruins of Castell-y-Bere.

Mawd Ma wd dda dach Estua sttua uary ry along the idyllic old rail route to Dolgellau.

There’s much to see in the town itself, including the Sailors’ Institute located around the harbour along with Tyˆ Gwyn’s ‘shipwreck museum’ and Tyˆ Crwn Round House. There’s also a Lifeboat Museum.

Discover it all on the new town heritage trail (leaflet available from the Tourist Information Centre or go to www.barmouthheritagetrail.org).

BARMOUTH/ABERMAW Popular resort on the entrance to the beautiful Mawddach Estuary. Pretty harbour overlooked by the headland of Dinas Oleu, birthplace of the National Trust. Lots to see and do – traditional seaside fun on the promenade and in the small fairground, two miles of superb sandy beach, good choice of accommodation. Take a walk up into the hills for panoramic views of sea and mountains, or follow the Mawddach Trail

Caade Cade der Id Idri dri riss

Bae Ceredigion

37

Harlech

4 Llanbedr Dyffryn Ardudwy

2 Barmouth Cardigan Bay Llwyngwril

5 Fairbourne

1 Abergynolwyn

Tywyn

3 Aberdyfi

Harl Har Ha rlec e h

DYFFRYN ARDUDWY Traditional village well located for coast and country. Prehistoric burial chamber an important local site (it’s also an Ein Treftadaeth – Our Heritage information hub). Inland, visit remote Llyn Cwm Bychan and the mysterious Roman Steps that climb up into the remote Rhinogydd mountains.

FAIRBOURNE Seaside village on opposite side of the Mawddach Estuary to Barmouth. Big sandy beach. Take a ride on the Fairbourne Railway, the smallest of Wales’s narrowgauge railways (with ferry link across the estuary).

HARLECH A ‘must see’ little town, not just for the views across the dunes but also for its clifftop medieval castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Recent developments here include a stunning new visitor centre, opening summer 2014, with state-ofthe-art interpretation facilities. Royal St David’s is one of Wales’s top golf courses.

Attractions include Theatr Harlech, craft shops and excellent leisure centre with indoor pool, café and climbing wall over 30ft high, the most exciting in southern Snowdonia. Taste Hufenfa Castell’s delicious artisan ice cream. Visit Y Lasynys Fawr (just off the B4573 north of Harlech), a historic house dating from the 16th century and home to 17th-/18th-century author Ellis Wynne (for visiting details contact 01766 781395 beforehand).

LLANBEDR Quaint village on the doorstep of Shell Island (so-called for the variety of its shells).

Inland, explore the Rhinogydd, the last true mountain wilderness left in Wales.

The Wild Side outdoor pursuits company offers guided wild camping and walking expeditions into the Rhinogydd. Visit the nearby Chwarel Hên Llanfair Slate Caverns.

LLWYNGWRIL Scenery and history come together here – ancient standing stones and remains of an Iron Age hillfort can be seen in the slopes above, and the village has a fascinating Quaker past, with two sites on the Dolgellau Quaker Trail. More religious heritage at nearby Llangelynnin, at the medieval Church of St Celynnin overlooking the sea. Good local amenities with sheltered beach, shop, pub with restaurant and railway station.

Close to beautiful Dysynni Valley, Bird Rock and the mysterious ‘Blue Lake’. A great spot for walking, cycling, horse riding, fishing, surfing, relaxing, and touring many nearby attractions.

TYWYN Seaside resort and touring base. Attractions include large sandy beach and narrowgauge Talyllyn Railway that travels deep into the hills (there’s a fascinating railway museum here too). Many local beauty spots – Ynysmaengwyn Park, Dolgoch Falls, Bird Rock, Llyn Myngul and Castell-yBere, atmospheric stronghold of the Welsh princes. Magic Lantern Cinema, a charming 19th-century building that retains its historic splendour, puts on an interesting show – in addition to mainstream and other films there’s music, comedy and poetry. The town’s quirky claims to fame also include its mighty ‘Tywyn Wurlitzer’ and ‘Race the Train’, an annual fun event featured on Countryfile.

Editor’s choice – five top attractions (there are lots more) 1 Discover Castell-y-Bere. This atmospheric ruin, hidden in the hills, was the mountain stronghold of the native Princes of Wales.

2 Ride the railway. Sit back and enjoy the views on the mainline Cambrian Coast Railway.

3 Ride another, smaller railway.

And also visit the Talyllyn Railway’s excellent Narrow-Gauge Railway Museum.

4 Harlech Castle. It’s one of those places you have to experience.

Medieval power in the raw, and great views. Great new visitor centre too (scheduled to open summer 2014).

5 Bike it. Cycle along the old railway line that runs along the southern shores of the Mawddach Estuary.

You’ve read all about it – now take a look at and book your accommodation (see pages 51–54).

Link up www.aberdyfi.org www.barmouth-wales.co.uk www.secretsnowdonia.co.uk www.visit-tywyn.co.uk

For Tourist Information Centres please see back cover

>

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

38 Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

SOUTHERN SNOWDONIA

Snowdonia has its own north/south divide. The south still has mountains – lots of them – but they are greener and rounder than the north’s rocky, craggy highlands. Cader Idris dominates the scene, rearing its misty head above Dolgellau, while further east the Aran, Arenigs and Berwyns rise above Bala and Llyn Tegid, Wales’s largest natural lake. There are forests too – most famously, the Coed y Brenin Forest Park, known far and wide for its world-class mountain biking.

Llyn Ll yn n Teg egid, id, Bala id l

BALA

Nati Na tion ion naall Whi White te Water W r Cen ntr tre, e, n nea eaar Ba Bala la

A small town in the ‘lake district’ of Southern Snowdonia that’s a big outdoor centre, famous internationally for events like white-water canoeing, swimming, cycling and triathlons. But you don’t need to be an ironman to appreciate Bala.

Its outdoors scene has a broad appeal, with a good choice of gentle as well as adventurous activities. Much of the action is centred on 4½-mile-long Llyn Tegid, the largest natural lake in Wales. Nearby River Tryweryn is another major aquatic asset, providing reliable white water, even during the summer when many rivers are

low. Bala is one of the few Welsh towns with ‘Walkers are Welcome’ accreditation (www.walkersarewelcome.org). Paths include heritage and town trails and a walk around the lake (you can also ride along its southern shore on the narrow-gauge Bala Lake Railway). There’s great cycling too, with waymarked bike routes. Bala is steeped in Welsh culture and history – a plaque tells the famous story of 16-year-old Mary Jones who walked to Bala across the mountains to collect a Welsh Bible in 1800. Such links continue: the activity centre for the Urdd Welsh League of Youth is located at nearby Glan-llyn (where family groups can also stay). Nearby Rhiwlas will be home to the

Deheudir Eryri 1

39 Bala

2 Llanuwchllyn

3

4 Dolgellau Dinas Mawddwy Corris

5 Machynlleth

Bwlch y Groes

1 Ride the Tryweryn. Rush down the white-water course. Get wet, get high on adrenaline.

Urdd National Eisteddfod, one of Europe’s largest youth festivals, when it visits Meirionnydd 26–31 May 2014.

2 Then relax. Sit back and admire the gorgeous views from the Bala Lake Railway.

CORRIS Former slate village with a quaint, unconventional beauty set within the Dyfi Forest. Boasts a surprisingly rich vein of local attractions, including the Centre for Alternative Technology, King Arthur’s Labyrinth, Lost Legends of the Stone Circle and Corris Craft Centre, along with the narrow-gauge Corris Railway and Museum.

Underground tours with Corris Mine Explorers, thrilling mountain biking in the forest, excellent fishing at Llyn Myngul, challenging walking on Cader Idris.

Corr Co rrrriss Crraaftt Cen enttrre

DINAS MAWDDWY Village in Alpine-style setting amongst steep, forested hillsides. Large craft centre in former woollen mill is a popular attraction.

The little village is an ideal touring centre close to two famous mountain passes – Bwlch yr Oerddrws to the north-west, and the even more spectacular Bwlch y Groes, the highest pass in Wales, to the north-east.

It’s also a good base for walking, fishing and mountain biking, with challenging trails in the nearby Dyfi Forest.

Editor’s choice – five top attractions (there are lots more)

3 Bring the mountain bike. Or hire one at Coed y Brenin’s excellent visitor centre and explore the woods.

Do olggel e laau

DOLGELLAU A town that’s going places. Its go-ahead attitude is reflected in an ever-improving range of local events and festivals, outdoor activities and places to stay and eat. But Dolgellau’s natural resources remain its number-one asset. The handsome, darkstoned market town is set beneath Cader Idris, the legendary ‘Chair of Idris’, on the approach to the beautiful Mawddach Estuary. Call into the Quaker Heritage Centre, and also the Ein Treftadaeth – Our Heritage information hub located in the Tourist Information Centre. Dolgellau is one of the handiest bases for exploring all of Snowdonia Mountains and Coast − but don’t miss the many local beauty spots such as the aptly named Precipice Walk and Mawddach Trail along the waterside for 9½ miles to Barmouth (there’s a longer, more mountainous Mawddach Way too).

Cycling and horse riding are also popular locally − Dolgellau is a specially chosen ‘Cycle Breaks’ centre with a fine range of road and off-road routes. The Coed y Brenin Forest Park is nearby, with mountain biking trails for all abilities plus a host of other outdoor attractions and facilities, including downloadable MP3 audio trails.

4 Drive the Bwlch. Bwlch y Groes is an unforgettable car trip over the highest pass in Wales. You’ll need a head for heights – and good brakes.

5 Go green. See how it’s done at the Centre for Alternative Technology, the visionary ‘village of the future’.

You’ve read all about it – now take a look at and book your accommodation (see pages 55–57).

Link up www.corris.co.uk www.discoverdolgellau.com www.gobala.org (activities and outdoor trails) www.visitbala.org (accommodation and more information)

For Tourist Information Centres please see back cover

>

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

40 Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2013 2014

CONWY VALLEY AND HIRAETHOG

What a difference a few miles can make. The green, fertile Conwy Valley is flanked on the west by thick forests and to the east by the heather moors of Hiraethog (otherwise known as the Denbigh Moors), a huge expanse of unexplored upland. All in all, it’s an area of great variety, with the mountain village of Capel Curig at one end and the historic walled town of Conwy on the other. since Victorian times and the coming of the railway. Many attractions, including railway museum, golf course, high ropes adventure, waymarked walks and famous Swallow Falls. The town has an excellent Snowdonia National Park Information Centre with Princes of Gwynedd exhibition, and an outstanding range of shops selling quality crafts, clothing and outdoor gear. A host of activities too, including climbing, mountain biking and horse riding.

CAPEL CURIG Sw wal allo low ow Fa Falls llls

BETWS-Y-COED It’s one of those places that never closes, even on a Sunday in deep and dark December. How could it? There’s too much demand. This bustling mountain resort, the official ‘gateway village to Snowdonia’ in a beautiful location amongst woods and riverbanks on the edge of the Gwydyr Forest Park, has been consistently popular

Village close to all of Snowdonia’s classic terrain, familiar to every self-respecting climber and mountain walker. Local shops sell mountaineering and outdoor wear.

Home of Plas y Brenin National Mountain Centre, which offers courses and tuition in outdoor activities for all abilities.

CERRIGYDRUDION Village on the A5 at the southern gateway to Hiraethog, with 2½-acre fly fishing lake and Wales’s largest go karting centre.

Nearby Llyn Brenig and the smaller Llyn Alwen are reservoirs with plentiful leisure facilities, including walking, cycling, fishing

Beetw B twss-ysy-Co yC ed Co d and sailing. Go first to Brenig’s visitor centre to get your bearings. For more cycling and walking (plus horse riding) head for the Clocaenog Forest. Along with the nearby village of Llanfihangel Glyn Myfyr, Cerrigydrudion is a good touring base for all of North Wales.

CONWY The walled town of Conwy and its darkstoned castle evoke an authentic medieval atmosphere. Spectacular views from the fortress (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and town walls down into the narrow streets and across the estuary. There’s history at almost every turn – Elizabethan Plas Mawr, Aberconwy House, Thomas Telford’s castellated suspension bridge, quirky ‘smallest house’. Conwy’s Tourist Information Centre has a flagship exhibition that tells the story of the Princes of Gwynedd with imaginative interactive displays. Other attractions include river cruises, art gallery and RSPB nature reserve with visitor centre. Bodnant Garden, the new Bodnant Welsh Food Centre and the start of the Cambrian Way long-distance path all nearby.

Dyffryn Conwy a Hiraethog

41

1 Conwy C

DOLWYDDELAN Mountain village set amongst craggy landscapes close to Betws-y-Coed.

Dolwyddelan Castle, on the ridge above, was a fortress of the native Princes of Gwynedd.

LLANFAIRFECHAN Mountain-backed seaside resort with a good stretch of sandy beach. Activities include windsurfing, golf, angling and croquet.

Birdwatching at Traeth Lafan Nature Reserve. Good walking base, reflected in its ‘Walkers are Welcome’ accreditation – ask at Conwy Tourist Information Centre for the Llanfairfechan Walks publication describing five town and country routes, or download ‘Llanfairfechan Walks’ from www.visitconwy.org.uk

LLANRWST Handsome ‘capital’ and historic market town for the Vale of Conwy. Nearby Gwydir Castle and Gwydir Uchaf Chapel reveal more of the area’s eventful past. Ask in local shops for the circular walk leaflet or download from www.visitconwy.org.uk.

There are superb woodland and upland walks too. Llanrwst is bordered by the popular Gwydyr Forest Park, a lovely area latticed with numerous trails for all abilities.

These waymarked paths take in everything from hidden mountain lakes to industrial heritage, scenic viewpoints to local history and the legend of Dafydd ap Siencyn, the forest’s own ‘Robin Hood’ (for details go to the Llanrwst Tourist Information Point).

PENMACHNO Mountain village beautifully located amongst open countryside and forested hills. Fascinating National Trust site nearby – Tyˆ Mawr Wybrnant was the birthplace of Bishop William Morgan whose translation of the Bible into Welsh ensured the survival of the language. Penmachno Forest has a well-developed network of mountain biking trails. Handy Penmachno and Dolwyddelan Walks guide (including detailed maps) available from Betws-y-Coed Tourist Information Centre. Go Below Underground Adventures based in Conwy Falls Café offer exciting trips into an abandoned mine.

Sandy beach, paddling pool, children’s playground. Small museum recalls Penmaenmawr’s quarrying past (it’s also an information hub for Ein Treftadaeth – Our Heritage). Good coast and country walking locally, including the waymarked ‘quarryman’s walk’ and scenic North Wales Path.

4

Trefriw Capel Curig

Llanrwst Betws y Coed 5

2

PENTREFOELAS

Penmachno

Stagecoaches use to stop here on the main route into North Wales, at a village well located for exploring the Vale of Conwy and Hiraethog. Today’s travellers – especially chocoholics – stop off at the Riverside Chocolate House and Tearoom for delicious hand-made goodies. Go north of the village to see a copy of the Levelinus Stone, a tall monument inscribed in Welsh and Latin and given to the medieval Welsh leader Llywelyn the Great by the Cistercian monks of Aberconwy Abbey (the original is now housed in the National Museum Wales in Cardiff).

ROWEN One of the prettiest little villages in Wales.

Attractive walks into the hills following the Roman Road. Conwy Water Gardens (otters, fishery, aquatic centre and reptile house) nearby.

TREFRIW The village’s long-established woollen mill produces distinctive Welsh tapestries and tweeds. Llyn Crafnant, a fishing lake, and Llyn Geirionydd, popular for watersports, hide themselves away in the forested hills above. Explore the village’s idyllic surroundings by following some of the Trefriw Trails.

Editor’s choice – five top attractions (there are lots more) 1 Go medieval. Climb the battlements of Conwy castle then walk its ring of town walls.

2 Go underground. Go below Underground Adventures near Betws-y-Coed takes you deep into an abandoned slate mine.

3 Go shopping. The new Bodnant Welsh Food Centre, showcasing the very best local produce, is a foodie’s heaven.

4 Go gardening. Then call into beautiful Bodnant Garden, one of the UK’s finest.

5 Go walking. Or fishing, or cycling or mountain biking at Llyn Brenig, the mountain lake with lots of leisure facilities.

You’ve read all about it – now take a look at and book your accommodation (see pages 58–62).

Link up www.betws-y-coed.co.uk www.dolwyddelan.org www.visitconwy.org.uk www.hiraethog.org.uk

PENMAENMAWR Holiday resort with attractive promenade looking out across Conwy Bay to Anglesey.

3 Rowen

Tref Tr efri riw w Wo ool olle olle l nM Miillllss

For Tourist Information Centres please see back cover

>

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42 Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

BANGOR, CAERNARFON, LLANBERIS AND THE VILLAGES OF SNOWDONIA

Mister Big in these parts is – guess? – Yr Wyddfa/Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales and England. But it’s by no means the only attraction.

There are mountain lakes and wooded valleys too, and a coastline of big beaches and sheltered straits. Man-made places also make it into the big league, especially world-famous Caernarfon Castle.

Caer Ca erna narf rfon on

ABERGWYNGREGYN Otherwise known simply as ‘Aber’. Scenic village at approach to a beautiful wooded valley and Aber Falls, the highest natural waterfall in Wales. Traeth Lafan Coastal Nature Reserve nearby.

BANGOR Small but lively city and university town.

Bangor Cathedral has ancient roots − this religious site can be traced back to the 6th century. Art and local artefacts on display at Gwynedd Museum and Gallery, along with an information hub for Ein Treftadaeth – Our Heritage. Lots of leisure facilities including pool, Play Centre and pier, where you can enjoy a favourite local treat of tea

and fresh scones. A good shopping scene too (along what’s reputed to be Wales’s longest High Street), boosted by the modern Deiniol and Menai centres. Look out for news of the iconic new Pontio centre (due to be completed in 2014), a site for the creation of spectacular theatre productions, film, music, circus, dance and other innovative performing arts. And don’t miss dramatic Penrhyn Castle, the National Trust mansion set in beautiful grounds on the outskirts of town, and nearby GreenWood Forest Park, a popular family attraction.

BEDDGELERT Everyone loves Beddgelert – and its enviable location. The picturesque stonebuilt village is the ideal base for exploring all

the classic Snowdonia sights and beauty spots − Aberglaslyn Pass to the south, Nant Gwynant to the east, Yr Wyddfa/ Snowdon to the north. Historic cottage of Tyˆ Isaf is now a National Trust shop selling local crafts and produce. Nearby Rhyd Ddu, connected by a new walking/cycling path, is a great starting point for walking up Yr Wyddfa. Or go underground at the Sygun Copper Mine, also close by. National Trust’s Craflwyn Estate (an activity, special interest and conference centre) is opposite Sygun on the road to Nant Gwynant. Both Craflwyn and the local tourist information centre have exhibitions on the Princes of Gwynedd. The village is one of the stop-off points on the extended Welsh Highland Railway from Caernarfon to Porthmadog.

Bangor, Caernarfon, Llanberis a Phentrefi Eryri

43

Abergwyngregyn Bangor Bethesda

3 Caernarfon 5 Llanberis 1 2 Dinas Dinlle Snowdon

4

Llan Ll anbe beri r s Pa ri Pass ss

BETHESDA Former slate quarrying village on doorstep of the dramatic Nant Ffrancon Pass, Ogwen Falls and some of North Wales’s wildest mountain scenery. On the Lôn Las Ogwen cycle and walking path – look out for the display boards en route that interpret the area’s local heritage. Caban near Gerlan is a hostel catering for outdoor enthusiasts.

Exciting new Zip World attraction in Penrhyn Quarry opened last year. In Nant Ffrancon there’s a new gateway building to Cwm Idwal and the Ogwen Valley, with interactive interpretation and refreshments.

centre). The Caernarfon Record Office has archives of Gwynedd (documents, images, maps and newspapers) stretching back 400 years. Cae’r Gors at nearby Rhosgadfan was home of Kate Roberts, one of Wales’s most celebrated writers.

DINAS DINLLE Seaside village with vast, sandy, awardwinning beach and views that seem to go on forever. Attractive promenade and play areas. Home of Airworld Aviation Museum and Caernarfon Airport and Helicentre. Big, beautiful Glynllifon Country Park close by.

CAERNARFON

LLANBERIS

Gwynedd’s county town, home to Wales’s most famous castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mighty Caernarfon Castle commands the lion’s share of attention, but the town’s narrow streets and stylishly redeveloped waterfront also merit a visit.

The castle, built in the 13th century by Edward I as a royal palace and military fortress, was at the core of a medieval walled town. The Romans left their mark too − 1,000 years earlier they constructed their fort of Segontium on the hill above (its foundations still exist). The story of the town is told in an exhibition at Oriel Pendeitsh, part of the Ein Treftadaeth – Our Heritage project (there’s also a Princes of Gwynedd information hub). Other attractions include Welsh Highland Railway (which runs for 25 miles to Porthmadog), Hwylfan Fun Centre, Redline Indoor Karting, scenic Lôn Eifion recreational cycle route and RIB rides along Menai Strait.

Waterside Doc Fictoria is home to Galeri (contemporary arts complex with theatre and cinema) and Celtica (art and crafts

Where to start? Llanberis is packed with enough attractions to keep visitors busy for weeks. But first, there’s the lakeside location at the foot of Yr Wyddfa/Snowdon.

When you’re tired of walking beside the water – which you won’t be – take a ride on two narrow-gauge lines, the Llanberis Lake Railway and Snowdon Mountain Railway.

The latter climbs almost to the doorstep of the stunning Hafod Eryri Visitor Centre. Lots to see and do in lakeside Padarn Country Park. The National Slate Museum recalls Snowdonia’s rich industrial heritage, Electric Mountain invites you into its awesome high-tech underground world, while Dolbadarn Castle takes you back a thousand years to the time of the native Welsh princes. If that isn’t enough there are craft shops and watersports too, though most outdoor fans come for the walking. Follow the self-guided Llanberis Heritage Trails taking you to fascinating places around the village.

Beddgelert

Editor’s choice – five top attractions (there are lots more) 1 Coast to coast. That’s what you get when you ride the Welsh Highland Railway from Caernarfon on the north coast to Porthmadog.

With stunning mountain views all along the way.

2 Caernarfon Castle. A predictable choice, yes, but never boring. It’s the ultimate medieval fortress, with soaring towers, narrow passageways, massive walls and battlements.

3 Ride a zip wire. Not any old zip wire, mind, but Europe’s longest at Zip World, Bethesda, Wales’s most exciting new attraction.

4 Pack a picnic. And enjoy it on a riverside ramble in the lovely mountain village of Beddgelert.

5 See slate. And the way in which it was turned into roofing materials at the National Slate Museum, Llanberis. The historic workshops here look just like they did when the last shift clocked off.

You’ve read all about it – now take a look at and book your accommodation (see pages 63–66).

Link up www.beddgelerttourism.com www.visitcaernarfon.com www.llanberis.org

For Tourist Information Centres please see back cover

>

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

44 Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2014

LLYˆN PENINSULA

Aber Ab ers rso soch soch ch

It’s ‘Snowdon’s arm’, a wildly beautiful peninsula that wraps you in just as strong an embrace as the peak of Yr Wyddfa/Snowdon itself. Llyˆn’s mixture of culture and heritage, traditional farmsteads and little ports, cliffs and bays, beaches and sea-cliffs is quite unlike anything else you’ll find in Wales – or elsewhere, for that matter. Little wonder, then, that the coast is a protected ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’. Walk along parts of the all-Wales Coast Path, and look out for the local events that celebrate Llyˆn’s tasty food scene and unique maritime heritage and culture.

ABERDARON Land’s end at its most idyllic. This fishing village was the last stop for pilgrims on the way to Ynys Enlli, now a National Nature Reserve renowned internationally for its birdlife. Celebrated poet RS Thomas lived in a cottage within the beautiful grounds of Plas yn Rhiw, a small National Trust manor house. Call into the National Trust’s new interpretation centre, Porth y Swnt, for

an insight into Llyˆn’s unique landscapes, seascapes and rich cultural heritage (scheduled to open spring 2014). And be prepared to get blown away by the awesome coastal views from Mynydd Mawr headland.

ABERSOCH Popular – and very fashionable – seaside resort and sailing/watersports centre, with fine beaches and sheltered harbour.

Busy programme of sailing events plus Wakestock, Europe’s largest wakeboard music festival (held in July). Busy bistro life too, plus a good choice of accommodation and attractions including pony trekking, boat trips and crafts centre. Abersoch is also a base for six circular walks ranging from under a mile to over nine miles. For further details visit the local Tourist Information Centre managed by volunteers.

Pen Llyˆn

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Caernarfon Bay

4 Porthdinllaen Po

Llithfaen

5

3

Nefyn Pwllheli

1

4

Llanbedrog Abersoch

Aberdaron

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Ynys Enlli/Bardsey Island

Editor’s choice – five top attractions (there are lots more) PPw wllllhe heli heli

LLANBEDROG Charming little seaside village with superb beach and possibly the most famous – certainly the most photogenic – line of beach huts in Wales. Home to Oriel Plas Glyn-y-Weddw, a leading arts centre and gallery. Well located for walking – one local favourite is the path to the headland for a close-up view of the strange ‘Tin Man’ figurehead. Shooting school, golf club and driving range nearby.

not for the faint hearted – it’s like playing off the deck of an aircraft carrier. For walkers, the village is an ideal base midway along Llyˆn’s north coast path.

PORTHDINLLAEN How perfect can you get? Not much more than Porthdinllaen, a much-photographed coastal hamlet with quaint houses and waterfront inn set above a beautiful half-moon of sands. Village and beach are owned by the National Trust − access on foot only.

PWLLHELI

Llan Ll lan a beedrog drog dr og

LLITHFAEN Village set in a landscape full of interest.

On the Yr Eifl mountains there’s Tre’r Ceiri, an astonishingly well-preserved Neolithic village occupied until about 2,000 years ago. Nant Gwrtheyrn, the Welsh Language and Heritage Centre, is nearby.

NEFYN Popular north coast seaside village with harbour, Maritime Museum and graceful crescent of sand leading to picturesque Porthdinllaen. Its headland golf course is

Llyˆn’s ‘capital’ fills many roles − seaside resort with fine beach, busy market town with art galleries and very popular sailing and watersports centre with one of the best modern marinas in the UK. Hafan Pwllheli gives access to the inviting sailing waters of Cardigan Bay and the Irish Sea. See the wildlife – seals, seabirds and dolphins – on coastal cruises (contact the Tourist Information Centre for details).

Neuadd Dwyfor stages a wide range of entertainments including films, touring company productions, opera, drama and ballet. Good shopping with an interesting range of smaller shops – and be sure to call into the multi-award-winning Eurospar, famous for its local produce. Excellent leisure centre to keep the kids entertained, along with activity-packed Glasfryn Parc.

Scenic, challenging golf – a mix of parkland and links – at one of North Wales’s top courses. Penarth Fawr medieval house nearby.

1 Walk the coast path. Anywhere really – you choose, it’s all good. If it’s Porth Oer you might get squeaky feet – the beach is otherwise known as ‘Whistling Sands’.

2 ‘The Isle of 20,000 Saints.’ Ynys Enlli/Bardsey Island has a special aura. Follow the pilgrims and take a boat trip from Aberdaron.

3 Family fun. You can’t beat Glasfryn Parc – it’s packed with activities and entertainment.

4 Take a cultural journey. Make that two. Nant Gwrtheyrn Welsh Language and Heritage Centre reveals more about this special peninsula. And the National Trust’s newly opened Porth y Swnt interpretation centre at Aberdaron is a gateway to Llyˆn’s unique landscapes, seascapes and rich cultural heritage.

5 Play 19 holes. Enjoy a testing game of golf at Nefyn, followed by a pint at the famed Tyˆ Coch Inn, Porthdinllaen. Perfect.

You’ve read all about it – now take a look at and book your accommodation (see pages 67–71).

Link up www.abersochandllyn.co.uk www.aberdaronlink.co.uk www.pwllheli.org.uk

For Tourist Information Centres please see back cover

>

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46

Cricieth, Porthmadog and the Vale of Ffestiniog

Bryn Elltyd Eco Guest House

4E

Tanygrisiau, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 3TW T: 01766 831356 info@ecoguesthouse.co.uk www.ecoguesthouse.co.uk Eco UK Considerate Hotelier Award Winner.

100% Carbon Neutral renewable electricity and heating, sauna, Wi-Fi, cooking, electric car charger. Central Snowdonia in fold of Ffestiniog railway. Walk, climb, cave, fish, ramble from door, home-baked bread.

Plas Tan y Bwlch

Occupying a superb position overlooking the Vale of Ffestiniog, Plas Tan y Bwlch is the ideal place to relax, unwind, and learn a little about the Snowdonia National Park.

+ + +

+ + +

Guest House

Guest Accommodation

r6; A6; Open 1–12; B&B pp £32–£48; 2 night B&Bpp: £76–£96; Weekly: B&B pp £239–£396; F } C Z % k ]

r35; A28; Open 1–12; B&B pp £32–£42

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Maentwrog, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 3YU T: 01766 772600 plas@eryri-npa.gov.uk www.plastanybwlch.com

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Cae Du Manod, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 4BB T: 01766 830847 M: 07909 880994 info@caedu.co.uk www.caedu.co.uk Arfona Rowlands Price

Caernarfon Road, Criccieth LL52 0AP T: 01766 522257 info@bronrhiwhotel.co.uk www.bronrhiwhotel.co.uk Claire Woodhouse & Siân Williams Beautiful Victorian guesthouse with en-suite rooms.

Outstanding breakfasts made with the finest produce. Only minutes away from Criccieth Castle, beaches and excellent restaurants. We are the ideal place to base yourself for the Llyn Peninsula and Snowdonia. Non-smoking, no children under 10 and free Wi-Fi. AA Highly Commended.

Arfona and Idris welcome you to their picturesque 16th century former farmhouse. Centrally located, magnificent mountain setting, stunning panoramic views, warm friendly atmosphere, mature garden and ponds. Ideal base for exploring the wonders of ‘our’ Snowdonia – or just simply relax.

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Bed & Breakfast

Guest Accommodation

r3; A3; Open 1–12; B&B pp £29–£36 } Z ( % ] ß * I

5D

Bron Rhiw

r9; A9; Open 4–10; B&B pp £37–£39; Weekly: B&B pp £259

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Caerwylan Hotel

Beach Bank, Criccieth LL52 0HW T: 01766 522547 F: 01248 800100 info@caerwylan.com www.caerwylan.com

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r24; A24; Open 2–12; B&B pp £52–£73; Short Break: 2 night B&B pp: £103–£145; Weekly: B&B pp £337–£482 } C Œ Z ( % sk ] G ú ßZ* I

The Caerwylan Hotel probably enjoys some of the best coastal views in North Wales.

We are the ideal base to explore Snowdonia or the many beaches, steam railways, castles and attractions in this beautiful and relaxing corner of Wales.

For walkers The Caerwylan is situated on the Wales Coast Path.

Unwind in one of our contemporary en-suite bedrooms. Our sea facing Executive Bedrooms offer space and luxury, making them perfect for that special occasion.

After a day of exploring let our Chefs prepare you a relaxing dinner in our

stylish Tonnau Restaurant. Most of our food is sourced from local suppliers.

Our contemporary bar serves a range of local beers plus the traditional lagers, spirits and a varied selection of wines.

From the magnificent sea-facing lounge we serve morning coffee, light lunches and afternoon teas. During the summer months we also serve light lunches and afternoon teas in our garden.

Treat yourself to a break at the Caerwylan in 2014. See www.caerwylan.com for more information and online booking.

TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Award 2012 & 2013.

Cricieth, Porthmadog and the Vale of Ffestiniog

47 5D

Porthmadog Road, Criccieth, Gwynedd LL52 0HP

Mrs Dorothy Pryce

david.pryce@btinternet.com

01766 522396 www.henfaes.com + + + + + Guest House

OPEN 4 –10 B&B: £38pp DB&B: £49pp WEEKLY DB&B: £300pp 5D

Min Y Gaer Guest House

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Porthmadog Road, Criccieth LL52 OHP T: 01766 522151 info@minygaer.co.uk www.minygaer.co.uk Tim Davis

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5E

Wenallt Guest House Penrhyndeudraeth, Gwynedd LL48 6PW T/F: 01766 770321 i.hartill@btinternet.com www.wenalltguesthouse.co.uk Sarah & Ian Hartill

Friendly family run licensed guest house. Many rooms with views of Cardigan Bay and Criccieth Castle. Two minutes from excellent local restaurants and beach. An ideal base for touring Snowdonia.

Well behaved pets welcome. All rooms have TV, DVD, tea and coffee making facilities. Private parking for up to 12 cars.

Guest House

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Welcoming B&B near Portmeirion; Steam Railway Magazine’s “Best B&B for Ffestiniog Railway” (station nearby). Spacious en-suite double, twin and single rooms all have comfortable seating, TVs, tea/coffee, period features. Delicious traditional or vegetarian breakfasts (extensive menu). Views over Penrhyndeudraeth, estuary and mountains.

Ideal touring base. Quality accommodation at excellent value.

Guest House

r10; A10; Open 3–10; B&B pp £40–£55; 2 night B&B pp: £40–£64; Weekly: B&B pp £260–£322

r4; A4; Open 1–12; B&B pp £29.50–£36; Short Break: 2 night B&B pp: £65; Weekly: B&B pp £206.50

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The Abereistedd

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Cefn Uchaf Guesthouse

West Parade, Criccieth LL52 0EN T: 01766 522710 info@abereistedd.co.uk www.abereistedd.co.uk Brian Gifford

Garndolbenmaen, Porthmadog LL51 9PJ T: 01766 530239 enquiries@cefnuchaf.co.uk www.cefnuchaf.com Malcolm & Kath Severn

Enjoy unrivalled sea and mountain views from our seafront position. Relax in the lounge with a drink from our well stocked bar, and hopefully spot a dolphin or two! Enjoy fine food and good company. Ideal location for country or coastal pursuits, or just relax in comfort. Private parking available, free Wi-Fi.

A warm welcome awaits you at our family run guesthouse. Enjoy the quiet location and relaxed friendly atmosphere. Set in open countryside and ideally situated for exploring Snowdonia and the Llyˆn Peninsula. Comfortable en-suite rooms and guest lounge. Delicious breakfasts and home cooked evening meals using local produce.

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Guest Accommodation

Guest House

r12; A12; Open 4–10; B&B pp £35–£39; Short Break: 2 night D B&B: £110–£118; Weekly: D B&B pp £381.50–£409.50

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r8; A7; Open 1–12; B&B pp £35–£38; 2 night D B&B pp £104–£116 } Z ( % k ] ú * I h-

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

48

Cricieth, Porthmadog and the Vale of Ffestiniog 5D

Royal Sportsman Hotel

+ + + Hotel

High Street, Criccieth LL52 0BS T: 0208 769 3252 randwthomas@02.co.uk

131 High Street, Porthmadog LL49 9HB T: 01766 512015 F: 01766 512490 enquiries@royalsportsman.co.uk www.royalsportsman.co.uk Porthmadog’s Premier Hotel. Porthmadog’s only quality hotel, one of top three AA 3+ hotels in North Wales, with 2 AA rosettes for food, in the 2012 Good Food Guide, 2013 TripAdvisor award for Excellence – 4* quality rating and included in the AA’s Britain’s Best Hotel Guide. Home from home, centrally located, independently managed hotel with family atmosphere; babies and children of all ages welcome as are pets in designated rooms. 28 en-suite bedrooms, refurbished in 2013, luxury toiletries, extensive hospitality tray, hairdryers and flat screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and parking.

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Two top floors of a three storey victorian house conveniently situated in the High Street. Two minutes from shops and restaurants. Five minutes from beaches, castle, playground, mini-golf and bowls. Fully equipped, very well furnished.

Central heating, double glazing. Spacious garden overlooking fields at rear, with BBQ and outdoor furniture.

+ + Self-Catering

r28; A28; Open 1–12; B&B pp £45–£53; Short Break: 2 night B&B: £45–£53; 2 night D B&B: £80–£320; Weekly B&B: £315–£364 D B&B: £567 F } C C

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Open 1–12; Sleeps 1–6; Weekly: per unit £225–£520

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Wenydd House

Delightful hideaway cottages in a good location for exploring Snowdonia and the Lleyn Peninsula.

Minffordd, Penrhyndeudraeth, Nr Porthmadog LL48 6EF T/F: 01766 771542 wenyddbandb@btinternet.com Jean & Colin Rockingham

+ + + +

5D

Gaerwen Town House

Enjoy warm, friendly, award-winning hospitality in a modern house in attractive gardens close to Portmeirion and Ffestiniog Railway. Quiet location with mountain and estuary views. Comfortable, well-appointed, fully ensuite bedrooms. Secure private parking. Free Wi-Fi. Famous for superb, extensive menu breakfasts. Ring for more details and special offers.

Bed & Breakfast

www.rhos-cottages.co.uk

RHOS

cottages@rhos.freeserve.co.uk

~ Country ~ Cottages

0776 986 4642 or 01758 720047 OPEN ALL YEAR Sleep 1-7 (+ cot) Weekly from £320 - £1200 Off Season / Winter Breaks from £70 nightly

CRICCIETH

r2; A2; Open 1–12; B&B pp £28–£32.50; Weekly: B&B pp £175–£195 } Z ( A %]ú ß *I

5E

Old Mill Farmhouse Fron Oleu Farm, Trawsfynydd LL41 4UN T: 01766 540397 stay@oldmillfarmhouse.co.uk www.oldmillfarmhouse.co.uk

6 Marine Terrace, Criccieth LL52 0EF T: 01766 523061 M: 07765 506860 sueandrews57@gmail.com www.seasidecriccieth.co.uk Sue Andrews

Comfortable, attractive, converted farm buildings set around a courtyard; each room en-suite with its own front door. Late arrivals no problem! Excellent garden railway in beautiful garden overlooking lake and mountains. Friendly llamas, free-ranging chickens. Great area for photographers, walkers, cyclists, tourists. Pet friendly. Close to Coed-yBrenin bike trails.

Spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom seafront property on 3 floors in a south-facing 4-storey Victorian Terrace. The lounge/dining room and 3 bedrooms have panoramic views over Cardigan Bay (watch the dolphins!), Criccieth Castle and West Beach.

Station, shops, beach, playground, restaurants, bowling, mini golf, tennis, castle all within 5 minutes walk. + + + +

+ + +

Self-Catering

Farmhouse

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–10; Weekly: per unit £280–£1120; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £250–£600

r7; A7; Open 1–12; B&B pp £29–£40; Weekly: B&B pp £193–£256 F } C ( % k] ß* I h_

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5D

Fferm Gaerwen Farm

2 London Road, Garndolbenmaen LL51 9NZ T: 01766 522257 info@lavendercottagesnowdonia.co.uk www.lavendercottagesnowdonia.co.uk Claire Woodhouse & Siân Williams

A warm welcome awaits you at our traditional Welsh farmhouse or modernised cottage. Clean, well equipped and comfortably furnished providing a homely atmosphere. Centrally located to explore beaches, mountains and lakes, or relax in the garden enjoying stunning views of Snowdonia, unwinding in the tranquillity of rural life. Brochure available.

Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–7; Weekly: per unit £150–£480; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £120–£180 } C Z ( A %K * j ß I h- Z y Ç I

5D

Lavender Cottage

Gaerwen, Ynys, Criccieth LL52 0NU T: 01766 810324 gaerwen@btopenworld.com www.gaerwenfarmcottages.co.uk Mrs Mary Williams

+ + +

5D

Seaside Criccieth

A superior five star non-smoking cottage.

It is the perfect place to stay in total comfort. Bed linen, towels and electricity included. Inglenook fireplace with wood burner. Sit in the beautiful garden with a glass of wine and watch the superb sunsets. No pets or children under ten.

AA 5 star accommodation. + + + + + Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 3; Weekly: per unit £390–£465; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £210

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Cricieth, Porthmadog and the Vale of Ffestiniog

49

5D

Melin Llecheiddior Garndolbenmaen LL51 9EZ T: 01766 530 635 elen@whevans.freeserve.co.uk www.cottages-in-snowdonia.co.uk Mrs E. Evans

Situated near the river Dwyfach; within easy reach of sea and mountains. One double room and one twin-bedded room. Sun lounge, bathroom with shower, toilet upstairs and downstairs. Lounge with colour TV, kitchen fully equipped, microwave.

Children welcome. Cot and highchair available.

Pets welcome on request. Pub and restaurant within walking distance.

+ + + Self-Catering

Open 3–11; Sleeps 4; Weekly: per unit £200–£350; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £105–£120

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Plas Blaenddol

5E

Plas Blaenddol, Llan Ffestiniog LL41 4PH T: 01766 762406 bookings@plasblaenddol.co.uk www.plasblaenddol.co.uk Diane Lea Stunning manor house with beautiful Gardens and woodlands in the centre of Snowdonia National Park. Stay in the west wing (Old Bell house) and/or the south wing (Lake House). + + + +

Pump Cottage, 8 Glyn Terrace, Borth-y-Gest

Borth-y-Gest, Porthmadog LL49 9UD T: 01619 284961 M: 07748 446058 Enquiries: Anne Keating, Borthwen, 14 Sunny Bank Road, Bowdon, Cheshire WA14 3PW noel.keating@hotmail.co.uk Good centre for Snowdonia. Ideal for walking and sailing. Near harbour and beach. Full central heating, microwave and patio. Well equipped. Open fire.

Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–10; Weekly: per unit £525–£1440; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £315–£864

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5D

+ – + + + +

+ + + Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 4; Weekly: from £250–£510; Short Breaks: 4 nights min: £50–£60 per night

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5E

Gellilydan Cottage

3 Gellilydan Terrace, Gellilydan, Nr Maentwrog LL41 4EE T: 01773 746480 M: 07769 838483 judith.osborne@w3z.co.uk www.gellilydan-cottage.webs.com Beautiful Grade II listed, beamed, character cottage.

Pretty, quiet village. Sunny garden, private parking.

Carefully renovated and furnished. Between sea and mountains. Central for Harlech, Portmadog, Portmeirion, sandy beaches. Wonderful for walking and wildlife enthusiasts, all from the doorstep.

Please ring for colour brochure and guests comments 01773 746480 or 07769 838483.

Dwyfach Cottages

30 Dublin Street, Tremadog, Porthmadog LL49 9RH T: 01766 512553 johnjulieo@aol.com www.tynewydd-accommodation.co.uk John and Julie Otty Two flats in the village of Tremadog, one mile from Porthmadog. A good base for exploring the area by car or bus. The village has two good pubs for food.

Pen-Y-Bryn, Chwilog, Pwllheli LL53 6SX T: 01766 810208 info@dwyfach.co.uk www.dwyfach.co.uk Mrs S. Edwards

Open 4–9; Sleeps 4; Weekly: per unit £280–£320

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5D

Relax or dine in Bwthyn’s new conservatory while taking in spectacular views. Idyllic country location.

En-suite bedrooms, enclosed garden.

Also house in Criccieth near beach.

Sleeps 6, price to £795. + + + + +

Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 4; Weekly: per unit £255–£425;

5D

Self-Catering

+ + +

+ + + Self-Catering

The Bobbing Boats

Ty Newydd Holiday Flats 5D

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–4; Weekly: per unit £195–£525; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £95–£250

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5C

Mur Clwt Lloer

Borth-y-Gest, Porthmadog LL49 9TR Enquiries: Mrs E Everitt 5 Lower End, Swaffham Prior, Cambridge CB25 0HT T: 01638 742974

Chwilog, Pwllheli LL53 6NQ T: 01766 810236 mur@talk21.com www.mur-clwt-lloer-farm.co.uk Mrs Siân T. Hughes

This pretty terrace cottage overlooks Borth-y-Gest’s quiet harbour, and enjoys wonderful open mountain views across the tidal estuary. The rooms are light and pleasantly furnished and there is a sunny garden. Ideal for sandy beaches, sailing and local walking as well as exploring Snowdonia and Llyˆn.

Café in village.

Get away from it all at our working dairy farm.

The recently refurbished farmhouse wing is clean, comfortable and well equipped. It's centrally located for touring beaches in Llyˆn Peninsula or the mountains in Snowdonia. Affording panoramic views of Cardigan Bay and Snowdonia. Walled garden has provision for outdoor entertainment. + + + +

+ + Self-Catering

Self-Catering

Open 3–10; Sleeps 2–6; Weekly: per unit £280–£550

Open 1–12; Sleeps 1–5; Weekly: per unit £225–£550; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £120–£180

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www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

50

Cricieth, Porthmadog and the Vale of Ffestiniog 5C

Parc Wernol

Chwilog Fawr, Chwilog, Pwllheli LL53 6SW T: 01766 810506 catherine@wernol.co.uk www.wernol.co.uk Peaceful and quiet family run park with panoramic views of Cardigan Bay and Snowdonia. Conveniently situated between Pwllheli and Porthmadog and within 3 miles of numerous beaches. Ideal for marina, various golf courses, horse riding and cycle route. Free coarse fishing lake and lovely country walks. 1, 2 & 3 bedroom cottages. 2 & 3 bedroom caravans and chalets. Wi-Fi.

+ + + + Holiday Park

Open 3–1; Statics: 70; Statics for hire: 3; Static Weekly: £250–£575; Self-Catering: Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–6; Weekly: per unit £225–£775; Short Breaks: £POA;

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Cardigan Bay

51

Find places to stay, things to do, events and festivals

Blue Flag Beach • Mountain Walks • Barmouth Bridge • Fresh Sea Air • The Mawddach Trail • Old Town Barmouth and the Harbour • Cambrian Coast Railway Barmouth Tourist Information Centre, The Railway Station, Barmouth Tel. 01341 280 787

Abermaw

w w w . b a r m o ut h - w a l e s . c o.u k Barmouth Walking Festival 13 – 22 September 2014 www.barmouthwalkingfestival.co.uk Bryn Melyn Guest House 7E

Llwyndu Farmhouse

Panorama Road, Barmouth LL42 1DQ T: 01341 280556 info@brynmelyn.co.uk www.brynmelyn.co.uk David and Heather Brown Relaxing 4 star Guest House with spectacular setting above the Mawddach Estuary in the popular seaside town of Barmouth. All rooms en-suite. Lounge/bar.

Evening meals by arrangement.

Unwind, relax, re-charge.

Llanaber, Barmouth LL421RR T: 01341 280144 intouch@llwyndu-farmhouse.co.uk www.llwyndu-farmhouse.co.uk Paula Thompson Rustic boutique hotel in Snowdonia, stunning views, charming ensuite rooms, imaginative food and fine wines amongst inglenooks, oak and great character. Come and relax away from it all. Peter and Paula.

+ + + +

+ + + +

Guest House

Guest Accommodation

r8; A8; Open 1–12; B&B pp £43.75–£52.50; 3 night B&B pp: £38.75–£47.50; Weekly: B&B pp £232.50–£285 } C C ( %

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r7; A7; Open 1–12; B&B pp £52–£66; 2 night D B&Bpp: £160–£178

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Book your ‘Big Adventure’ Our new easy-to use Booking Hub features over 20 activity adventure tasters (canyoning, high ropes, wild lake swimming, watersports, gorge walking, etc).

Call 01286 672232, 01341 280787 or 01766 512981.

www.visitsnowdonia.info

+ + + Country House Hotel

7E

Morwendon House

6E

Morwendon House, Llanaber, Barmouth LL42 1RR T: 01341 280566 M: 07092 197785 info@morwendon-house.co.uk www.morwendon-house.co.uk Geoff and Teresa Challenor Quality accommodation in beautifully maintained house overlooking Cardigan Bay. Evening meals available, AA awards for dinner and breakfast. Off road private car parking. No children under 12 years, no pets. All rooms en-suite. Ideally situated for exploring Snowdonia and the Mawddach Estuary. Railway halt 200 yards. r6; A6; Open 1–12; B&B pp £52.50-£55

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www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

52

Cardigan Bay 6D

Pentre Mawr Farm

6E

Pandy

Dyffryn Ardudwy LL44 2ES T: 01341 247413 www.pentre-mawr.co.uk Mrs Susan Owen

Talybont, Barmouth LL43 2AD T: 01341 242626 holidays@rowenpark.com www.rowenpark.com/pandy Mr & Mrs J.L.Williams

Relax in the peace and quiet of this working farm centrally situated between Barmouth and Harlech. Inglenook fireplaces, spacious ensuite bedrooms and a homely atmosphere. Village shops, pubs. Cambrian Coast Railway station and beach all within easy level walking distance. Ample parking.

Pets welcome. No children under 12. Camping available 200yds from Dyffryn Beach.

Phone Sue Owen for colour brochure.

+ + + +

A former fulling mill, Pandy has been completely renovated and refurbished to a very high standard.

Finished and furnished throughout in oak.

Four bedrooms, all en-suite, lounge containing woodburner, fully fitted kitchen, double oven, double fridge, dishwasher etc. Central heated throughout. Washing machine, tumble dryer and freezer in utility room. + + + + +

Farmhouse

Self-Catering

r3; A3; Open 1–10; B&B pp £32.50–£35; 2 night B&B pp: £65; Weekly: B&B pp £210 } C Z ( % ] ú ß* j I

7E

Friog, Fairbourne LL38 2NX T: 01341 250644 stay@einionhouse.co.uk www.einionhouse.co.uk Alvin Pereira Near Barmouth and Dolgellau. 100% recommended. Sea views, beach nearby.

Walks – blue lake, Wales Coastal Path, Mawddach Trail, Barmouth Bridge, Cader Idris, steam railways, pony trekking, cycling, castles. See website.

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Snowdonia Mountains and Coast DVD Call 01286 679217 to order a copy or view and download online.

+ + + + Guest House

r6; A6; Open 1–12; B&B pp £30–£40; 2 night B&Bpp: £70; Weekly: B&B pp £210 C Z ( % k ] úß * I

www.visitsnowdonia.info/dvd

Einion House B&B

Open 3–11; Sleeps 2–7; Weekly: per unit £630–£1150

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Fairlawns Bungalow Fairbourne T: 01341 514136 or 0844 5897891 enquiry@fairbournebungalows.co.uk www.fairbournebungalows.co.uk

Bungalow in Fairbourne, close to beach.

Sleeps four adults and two children. Fairbourne is a small seaside village with a long sandy beach, mountain views, golf course and narrow gauge steam railway. Ideal for seaside and mountain walking holidays. Located in beautiful Southern Snowdonia. TV's "Railway Walks" Mawddach trail nearby. + + + Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 4 adults and 2 children; Weekly: per unit £395–£625

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7E

Graig Wen

5D

Clyd Fan

Arthog, Dolgellau LL39 1BQ T: 01341 250482 hello@graigwen.co.uk www.graigwen.co.uk Sarah and John

+ + + +

3 Bron-y-Graig, Harlech LL46 2SR T: 01619 240181 M: 07867 935728 celial@btinternet.com Celia L Stewart Clyd Fan is in the centre of Harlech, where you can visit Harlech Castle, restaurants and shops within walking distance. There is a bus stop outside bungalow that can take you to the Railway Station/Royal St Davids Golf Course, and sandy beaches.Conservatory/patio area, large enclosed rear garden that benefits from full sunshine.

Converted Victorian Slate cutting mill in exceptional location overlooking Mawddach Estuary in Snowdonia National Park. Direct access to waterside cycle/walking trail linking Barmouth and Dolgellau. Walks to pubs, waterfalls and mountains from door. Four spacious 2 bedroom houses plus yurts. Sandy beaches and shops within 5 minutes drive. + + +

Self-Catering

Self-Catering

Open 1–12 (except November); Sleeps 2–6; Weekly: per unit £250–£750; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £200–£300

Open 1–12; Sleeps 6/7; Weekly: per unit £350–£775

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Egryn Tal y Bont, Barmouth LL43 2BZ T: 0844 800 2070 cottages@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/snowdonia Mae Egryn yn dyˆ neuadd ganoloesol gradd II rhestredig hardd iawn yn eistedd rhwng Abermaw a Harlech, perffaith am deithiau cerdded a thraethau.

Egryn is a beautifully restored grade II listed medieval hall house nestled between Barmouth and Harlech, perfect for walks and beaches.

Awaiting grading Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 9+cot; Weekly: per unit £795–£1995; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £557–£1397

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Plas Gwynfryn

6D

Llanbedr, Gwynedd LL45 2NY T: 01341 241363 enquiries@plasgwynfryn.co.uk www.plasgwynfryn.co.uk Caroline Evans Large country house rental. Colourful, sculptured gardens, luxurious guest bedrooms and a unique setting create an unforgettable escape. Catering available.

Pub walking distance. Licensed for wedding ceremonies and receptions.

Riverside Bungalow

3 Riverside Bungalow, Llanbedr LL45 2NW T: 07871 196280 chris-garbett@live.co.uk www.holidaycottagellanbedr.co.uk Chris Garbett Within earshot of the River Artro in the village of Llanbedr. Snowdonia National Park and Cambrian Coast are on the doorstep. The rugged Rhinogydd Mountains are also close by.

+ + + +

+ + + +

Self-Catering

Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 14; Weekly: per unit £1376–£2988; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £1215–£1810; } C C Z A k ] ú ß* h-y

6D

Open 1–12; Sleeps 4; Weekly: per unit £230–£520; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £180–£360 F}Œ(%]ß*I- yÇI

Cardigan Bay Pensarn Farm Cottage

6D

Pensarn Farm, Llanbedr LL45 2HS T: 01341 241285 www.pensarncottage.co.uk Beti W. Jones Modernised farm cottage with open views, within easy reach of beach, mountains, country walks, cycling paths and golf course. Near buses and trains.

Full central heating. Private garden.

Warm welcome.

Llwyngwril Gallery Luxury 7E Holiday Accommodation

Hendre Mynach Touring Caravan & Camping Park

Premier Park 100 metres from safe sandy beach, 20 mins walk along promenade to Barmouth centre. All modern amenities, with on-site shop and off-licence. Level sites, hard standings and grass pitches. Disabled room. Excellent base for walking, cycling. Public transport nearby. Special offers available spring and autumn. See our website or phone for details.

+ + + + Self-Catering

Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–5; Weekly: per unit £230–£400; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £130–£160 F } C Z ] ß * jI-y I

Touring & Camping Park

Open 3–1; Statics:1; Statics for hire:1; Pitches: Touring 60, Tents 180; Static Weekly: £250–£500; Touring Daily £14–£35.

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7E

The Tin House

+ + + + +

Open 1–12; Sleeps 4–5; Weekly: per unit £500–£750; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £425–£500 F}CZ%k]ß

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+ + Self-Catering

Talybont, Barmouth LL43 2AD T: 01341 242626 holidays@rowenpark.com www.rowenpark.com A small, quiet family park situated in a tree-lined meadow beside a small mountain stream. Path to the beach, and a short stroll to Talybont village.

Excellent, very well equipped 2 and 3 bedroomed caravans and lodges containing all the usual modern facilities. Shop and launderette on site.

Free brochure.

+ + + + Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 4–5; Weekly: per unit £390–£495; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £270–£360 FC Z % k] ß* h-Z ÇI J

+ + + + + Holiday Park

Open 1–12; Sleeps 1–4; Weekly: per unit £190–£640; Short Break: per unit: £160–£300 } Z(] ß * I y ÇI

Open 4–11; Statics: 35; Statics for hire: 22 Static Weekly: £250–£760; Short Breaks: £125–£280

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8D

Hendy Farm Holidays

+ + +

+ + + + + Self-Catering

+ + + + + Touring & Camping Park

r3; A2; Open 4-10; B&B pp £35–£45; Short Break: 2 night B&B pp: £70–£90; Weekly B&B pp £210–£280 Self Catering: Open 1-12; Sleeps 2–6; Weekly per unit £190–£750; Short Break: 3 night per unit: £130–£360

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7E

+ + + +

+ + + Holiday & Camping Park

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6E

Small, quiet park ideal for family, beach or activity holiday. Children love the tree swings and canoeing on the lake. Self catering caravans, camping with campfires or glamping bell tents available. Located between Harlech and Barmouth three miles from castle and beaches. Climb Snowdon, Rhinog mountains or walk the coastal path.

Holiday Park

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Dinas, Llanbedr LL45 2PH T: 01341 241585 post@hideaway-in-the-hills.com www.hideaway-in-the-hills.com Einir Pritchard

Boasting magnificent coastal views Hendre Coed offers quality accommodation at an affordable price. Facilities include quality licensed restaurant serving local produce, bar with real fire, games room, outside children’s play equipment, laundrette, large green and outdoor swimming pool. 1.25 miles from Barmouth. Short and long breaks available.

Phone for free brochure.

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5 star family park on the Mid Wales coast 2 ½ miles north of Barmouth, with magnificent views over Cardigan Bay and just a short walk from miles of beautiful sandy beach. Fully serviced pitches. Wi-Fi available. Family pods with TV. Special offers throughout year. Open Christmas period. Seasonal pitches available.

Dinas Caravan Park Camping and Glamping

Llanaber, Barmouth LL42 1AJ T: 01341 280597 enquiry@hendrecoedisaf.co.uk www.hendrecoedisaf.co.uk

Open 7–5; Statics: 91; Statics for hire: 25; Static Daily: £45–£115; Static Weekly: £275–£765

7E

Open 3–1; Pitches: Touring 70, Tents 30; Family Pods 8; Touring Daily £18– £34; Touring Weekly £126–£238; Camping Daily £12– £30; Camping Weekly £84–£210;

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Hendre Coed Isaf Holiday Park

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Llanaber, Barmouth LL42 1RR T: 01341 280999 F: 01341 280740 enquiries@trawsdir.co.uk www.barmouthholidays.co.uk www.trawsdir.co.uk Matthew Harris & Rhian Williams

Relax on working farm peacefully situated between sea and mountains. Own halt for Talyllyn Railway. Enjoy one of our 5 star cottages which are available all year or B&B in the main house from Easter to October.

Half a mile from Tywyn.

Farmhouse

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Trawsdir Touring Caravans and Camping Park

Hendy Farm, Tywyn LL36 9RU T: 01654 710457 F: 01654 710457 jones@farmline.com www.hendyfarmholidays.co.uk Anne Lloyd-Jones

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6E

Rowen Caravan Park

Plas Edwards, Tywyn, Gwynedd LL36 0DA T: 01296 425389 M: 0787 9867 463 keith.sweetman@tesco.net www.beachsidehouse.co.uk Mr Keith Sweetman Beach-side house. Direct access to sandy beach. Unobstructed views of Cardigan Bay. Dolphins seen from house.

Quiet, comfortable two bedroom house.

Central heating so ideal for winter walking.

Short breaks available.

Ffordd y Coleg, Llwyngwril LL37 2UZ T: 01341 250884 debbieashton@uwclub.net www.thetinhouse.com Debbie Ashton Quirky and fun, ideal for young families or couples. Situated on Wales Coastal Path. Comfortable, well equipped, ideal base for relaxation and exploring this stunning area.

7E

Llanaber Road, Barmouth LL42 1YR T: 01341 280262 F: 01341 280586 info@hendremynach.co.uk www.hendremynach.co.uk Andrew Paganuzzi

Llwyngwril LL37 2JQ T: 01341 250884 debbieashton@uwclub.net Debbie Ashton Myfanwy and Mihangel. Two luxurious units you will not want to leave. Well equipped, ideal base for relaxation and exploring this beautiful area.

+ + +

53

Open 1–12; Statics: 8; Statics for hire: 4; Pitches: Tents 30; Touring Daily £15; Static Weekly: £245–£499; Short Breaks: 2 people for 2 nights from £70 } Z ( k ] I

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

54

Cardigan Bay

Scan our QR code with an App on your phone to view our website

Gwerniago Camping Site 8E

8E

Ynysymaengwyn Caravan Park The Lodge, Tywyn LL36 9RY T: 01654 710684 rita@ynysy.co.uk www.ynysy.co.uk Mrs Rita Blunden

Gwerniago Pennal, Machynlleth SY20 9JX T: 01654 791227 contact@gwerniago.co.uk www.gwerniago.co.uk Mair Jones Ideal base for the coast, Snowdonia and Mid Wales. Near RSPB Ynyshir and Dovey Osprey Project. Fantastic views, interesting wildlife. Free modern facilities.

Parking by tent and campfires permitted.

This Local Authority owned site is ideally located with a relaxing atmosphere throughout. Even in the busy months the community environment is refreshing. Ideal base for walkers, climbers, fishing, surfing. Whilst the site is modern and fully equipped, it still retains charm and beauty.

Green Flag Award 2011/12, 2012/13, 2013/14.

+ + + Touring & Camping Park

www.visitsnowdonia.info

Open 3–10; Statics:1; Statics for hire:1; Pitches: Touring 12, Tents 20; Static Daily: £50–£60; Touring Daily £15–£18; Static Weekly: £285–£360; Touring Weekly £105– £126 C k ß j 5 Ç I ( =

+ + + Holiday, Touring & Camping Park

Open 1–12; Statics:115; Pitches: Touring 20, Tents 60; Touring Daily £12–£26; Touring Weekly: £72–£156; Short Breaks: Mid week 3 nights 3 for 2 (out of season)

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Southern Snowdonia

55 5H

Palé Hall Palé Estate, Llandderfel, Bala, Gwynedd LL23 7PS T: 01678 530285 enquiries@palehall.co.uk www.palehall.co.uk

One of the finest buildings in Wales, stunning interiors and exquisite features include the boudoir with hand painted ceiling, magnificent entrance hall and galleried staircase. One of the most notable guests was Queen Victoria, her original bath and bed are still in use. Finest cuisine served, guests can sample life in the grand manner. Licensed for civil weddings. Ideal for conferences & house parties.

+ + + + Country House Hotel

r17; A17; Open 1–12; B&B pp £62.50–£105;

2 night D B&Bpp: £177.50–£260; Weekly D B&B pp: £577.50–£875

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6F

Afon Rhaiadr Country House Dolgellau LL40 2AH T: 01341 450777 afonrhaiadr@hotmail.co.uk www.afonrhaiadr.co.uk

Luxury Boutique B&B. Romantic candle-lit dining, log fires and award-winning chef proprietor. Stylish décor, chandeliers and antiques. Luxury bathrooms, bedding and robes. Set in idyllic gardens with woodland, stream and waterfalls. Ample parking.

Located at the foot of Cader Idris, Coed-y-Brenin and coast. A walkers and activities paradise. Also exclusive use for small groups. Afternoon tea on the lawn in summer.

+ + + + + Guest Accommodation

r5; A4; Open 1–12; B&B pp £35–£75; 2 night B&B D pp: £130–£195; Weekly: B&B pp POA, B&B D pp POA } C C Œ Z ( %k] ú ßZ *I h-_vi

5G

Bryn Tegid Country House

7F

Staylittle B&B

Bryn Tegid, Bala LL23 7YG T: 01678 521645 info@bryntegid.co.uk www.bryntegid.co.uk Rosina Jones

Pencefn Road, Dolgellau LL40 2YP T: 01341 423380 staylittlefarm@yahoo.co.uk www.staylittlefarm.co.uk Dawn Jones

Bryn Tegid Country House is a very attractive 1840 Grade II listed house set in 9 acres of beautiful lawns and gardens overlooking Bala Lake. One mile from Bala. The area is wonderful for walking, cycling and waterports and in Snowdonia Park. Rosina enjoys showing off the pony and hens to children. Family room included.

Farmhouse accommodation with views of Cader Idris range and five minutes walk downhill to town centre. All rooms en-suite with TV/DVD and tea tray.

Self-catering unit also available. Sleeps 4.

+ + + + +

r3; A3; Open 2–11; B&B pp £80–£120; }Œ (%] ú ß* h-

Llangower, Bala LL23 7BT T: 01678 521782 katrinalesaux@hotmail.co.uk www.bryniau-golau.co.uk Katrina Le Saux Award-winning B&B situated in Snowdonia National Park. Beautiful Victorian house with stunning views over Bala Lake. Luxurious accommodation; three rooms all en-suite. Two with four poster beds.

Fabulous food; home-baked bread and cakes, home produced honey, best marmalade in Wales!

Dinners Fridays and Sundays by arrangement, licenced premises. + + + + + Bed & Breafast

r3; A3; Open 2–11; B&B pp £50–£55 } C ( A% k] ú * I

Snowdonia on a budget For information on special offers, places to visit, free attractions and things to do contact our Tourist Information Centres (see back cover for details).

+ + + + Bed & Breakfast

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5G

Bryniau Golau

Tourist Information Centre

r3; A3; Open 1–11; B&B pp £30– £32.50; 2 night B&B pppn: £27.50; Weekly: B&B pppn £25;

Guest House

Canolfan Croeso

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7F 8E

NameOlwyn of property Dwy View of Cader Idris from Dwy Olwyn

Coed-y-Fronallt, Talsarnau, Harlech Dolgellau LL47 6TSLL40 2YG T: 01766 01341 780742 422822 F: 01766 781199 deborah@gwrachynys.co.uk dwy_olwyn@hotmail.co.uk www.gwrachynys.co.uk www.dwyolwyn.co.uk Norma Jones break in a glorious setting close to Enjoy a peaceful Situated the mountains in an and acresea. of landscaped Excellent base gardens, for walking and touring boasting magnificent Snowdonia. views NearoftoCader Harlech Idris, Castle, in a Portmeirion, peaceful location Welsh–Highland yet only Railway, 10 minutes Royal walk St to David'sClose town.

Golf to Club all and amenities numerous and sandy numerous beaches. walks Warm Welsh within the Snowdonia welcome National awaits you.

Park.

ForCycle special lockup. offers visit Hearty breakfast our website. or vegetarian. Personal attention assured. Ample parking. TV and tea/coffee facilities in all bedrooms. Free Wi-Fi.

+ + + + + Guest House + + + Guest House

r3; A2; Open 1–12; B&B pp £26–£32.50

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www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

56

Southern Snowdonia 6F

Heulwen Guest House Llanfachreth, Dolgellau, Gwynedd LL40 2EB T: 01341 423085 heulwenguesthouse@hotmail.com www.heulwen.co.uk Heulwen & Andy Watts

A warm welcome awaits you at Heulwen.

A comfortable and spacious house with panoramic views from all rooms and south facing patio.

Bedrooms have TV/DVD, clock/radio and beverage facilities. Ample off-road parking. Bike wash and storage. Ideally situated for exploring Snowdonia and mid Wales. Close to Coed-y-Brenin Mountain Bike centre.

+ + + + Guest House

r3; A2; Open 1–12; B&B pp £33–£36; Weekly: B&B pp £224–£238

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7F

Ivy House Finsbury Square, Dolgellau LL40 1RF T: 01341 422535 info@ivyhouse-dolgellau.co.uk www.ivyhouse-dolgellau.co.uk Mr Duncan Bamford A country town guest house offering a welcoming atmosphere and a good home cooked breakfast (traditional or vegetarian).

All bedrooms have digital TV, hairdryer and a beverage tray. Dolgellau is a splendid touring centre. Safe storage for bikes. Wi-fi available.

Single and weekly rates available on request. + + + Guest House

r6; A4; Open 1–12; B&B pp £32.50–£37.50

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Maes Mawr Llanelltyd, Dolgellau LL40 2HF T: 01341 440762 sue@maes-mawr.co.uk www.maes-mawr.co.uk Sue Ashe & Chris Carswell

Llanfor, Bala, Gwynedd LL23 7DU T: 01678 520036 M: 07896 634483 cysgodycoed@gmail.com www.cysgod-y-coed.co.uk Mel Williams Escape, relax and enjoy your stay at Cysgod y Coed B&B or Cysgod Bach Cottages for 2. Contemporary and fully equipped. Hot tub, storage for bikes, boats and muddy boots. Great for peaceful break.

Chris and Sue invite you to share their 17th century former farmhouse situated in 32 acres of outstanding natural beauty. Stunning location above the Mawddach River overlooking Cader Idris to explore Snowdonia. Fantastic views, large gardens, tasty home cooking, abundant wildlife, warm welcome. Our secret paradise, once seen never forgotten.

+ + + +

+ + + +

+ + + +

+ + + Self-Catering

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7F

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It’s paradise! Honestly! 18th century farmhouse.

5 star AA ‘Guest Accommodation of the Year’ award winner. Offers superb mountain views, peace, tranquillity and seclusion. Explore the ‘Cader Idris’ mountain and its lakes. AA ‘Best Breakfast’ award winner. Celebrating 28 years of 5 star accommodation, run by Olwen the owner.

AA 2012 friendliest B&B finalist.

r3; A3; Open 2–11; B&B pp £40–£42 F} ( % ] ú * jI

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–4; Weekly: per unit £299–£499; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £165–£285 F}Z ( ] * y ÇI

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Hen Hafod Nr Bala, Fedw’r Gog Nr Maerdy & Maesmor Bala

Tyddynmawr, Cader Road, Islawrdref, Dolgellau, Gwynedd LL40 1TL T: 01341 422331 olwynevans@btconnect.com www.wales-guesthouse.co.uk Olwen Evans

+ + + + +

Bryniau, Brithdir LL40 2TY T: 07710 155689 bookings@tynantcottage.com www.tynantcottage.com Greville Seddon Scandinavian style log cottage in a beautiful and quiet setting. Open plan garden, stream and pond. Fully equipped cosy accommodation with wood-burning stove for year round enjoyment. Special offers available.

Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2; Weekly: per unit £210–£490; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £210–£300; F } Œ Z ( A %

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Farmhouse

8E

Ty Nant

Bed & Breakfast

Bed & Breakfast

Tyddynmawr Farmhouse

5G

Cysgod y Coed

c/o Penisarmynydd, Maerdy, Corwen, Denbighshire LL21 0NP T: 01490 460448 M: 07890 225907 www.balacottages.co.uk G. Owen Hen Hafod is a 17th century detached farmhouse situated 1 mile from Bala. Fedw’r Gog cottage is only 2 miles from the main A5 road towards Betws-y-Coed. Idyllic properties full of charm and character. Maesmor is on the outskirts of Bala, the bedroom overlooks the lake. Pets welcome. Short breaks available. + + + + Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–8; Weekly: per unit £150–£490; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £80–£200

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5G

Southern Snowdonia 5G

Hendwr Scandinavian Lodges

57 6F

Or'Eira Llanfachreth, Dolgellau LL40 2DH T: 01384 370143 info@oreira.co.uk www.oreira.co.uk Chris Gladwin

Llandrillo, Nr Bala T: 01490 440210 johnhendwr@btinternet.com www.welshholidaylodges.co.uk On the banks of a gently meandering stream in the beautiful upper Dee Valley. Pine lodges comprise 3 bedrooms, open plan kitchen lounge, bathroom, Sky TV. Walk or cycle from your lodge into the Berwyns, stroll along country lanes.

Fish the Dee, try white-water rafting or visit Snowdonia’s sandy beaches, castles and little trains of Wales.

Or'Eira is a spacious, comfortable house in beautiful countryside. Downstairs there is a big kitchen / breakfast room, sitting room and conservatory. Upstairs are 4 bedrooms, 2 twin and 2 double with 2 en-suite and 1 family bathroom. Ideal for walking and cycling (close to Coed-y-Brenin). Easy access to the coast.

+ + + + Self-Catering

+ + + + Self-Catering

Open 3–10; Sleeps 2–6; Weekly: per unit £220–£470; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £165–£275

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Open 3–10; Sleeps 2–8; Weekly: per unit £450–£800

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5G

Pen Cefn Cottage Holidays

7G

Nant-y-Nodyn

Sarnau, Bala LL23 7LG T: 01678 530 481 M: 07768 506640 pencefncottages@hotmail.co.uk www.pencefn.com Gary Thomas

Dinas Mawddwy, Machynlleth, Powys SY20 9AG T: 01650 531330 elwyn@nantynodyn.fsnet.co.uk www.nantynodyn.co.uk Elwyn & Megan Jones

Whether your preference is a leisurely or energetic holiday, our beautiful cottages set in five acres of magnificent countryside offer the perfect location. Each cottage is fully equipped, comfortable and clean with a secluded garden.

Join us and be sure of a warm welcome with all the comforts of home. + + + +

+ + + + +

Self-Catering

Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–6; Weekly: per unit £205–£593; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £139–£178 (Winter season)

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Even when clouds linger on the hills these cottages provide pure luxury and character with blazing fires and Welsh blankets on sumptuous beds. The sheltered gardens are perfect for relaxing following long walks on beaches or climbing the nearby mountains. Breathe in the air, then retire to your beautiful cottage.

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–6; Weekly: per unit £300–£920; Short Break: 3 nights per unit from £240

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58

Conwy Valley and Hiraethog 4F

Craig-y-Dderwen The Riverside Hotel Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AS T: 01690 710293 F: 01690 710362 info@snowdoniahotel.com www.snowdoniahotel.com

Built in Victorian times amidst the dramatic scenery of Snowdonia National Park, this elegant 4 star Country House Hotel makes the most of its tranquil position within 16 acres of grounds on the banks of the river Conwy. The hotel offers an award winning restaurant and 18 newly refurbished rooms and suites. + + + + Country House Hotel

r18; A18; Open 2–12; B&B pp £60–£115 F}CCŒZ(A% sk ú ßZ *ß I h-_

4F

The Ferns Guesthouse Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AN T: 01690 710587 ferns@betws-y-coed.co.uk www.ferns-guesthouse.co.uk Mark & Sarah Jones You'll find a warm welcome and friendly service here at The Ferns. We are ideally located within easy stroll of Betws-y-Coed’s restaurants, bars, shops, railway station and Snowdon Sherpa bus-stop. Delicious breakfasts, en-suite rooms, parking, free Wi-Fi. A great base for exploring Snowdonia and North Wales. + + + + Guest House

r7; A7; Open 1–12; B&B pp £35–£43 } ( % k ] ú ß* I

3F

Afon View

3F

Garth Dderwen

Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 OAN T: 01690 710 726 welcome@afon-view.co.uk www.afon-view.co.uk Mike & Barbara Williams

Vicarage Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AD T: 01690 710491 welcome@garth-dderwen.co.uk www.garth-dderwen.co.uk Mrs F. Morris

AA 4 star (Top 10%). Village location with parking and bike storage. Friendly, relaxed atmosphere with comfortable, en-suite bedrooms all with lovely views, free Wi-Fi and generous hospitality tray. Excellent choice of breakfasts available.

Cosy lounge with a real fire. You can view and book the rooms online via our website.

Victorian Guest House located in quiet village centre position, private parking, lounge, traditional breakfast, Wi-Fi, drying facilities, bike storage, online booking available. Close to local amenities, walks, fishing, golf. Centrally situated for touring Snowdonia and North Wales. Special diets catered for. A warm welcome awaits. + + + Guest House

r7; A7; Open 1–12; B&B pp £37.50–£55;

r6; A4; Open 1–12; B&B pp £27.50–£40 F } Z ( % k ú ß

Weekly: B&B pp £225–£330

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3F

Bryn Bella Guest House

Glan Aber Hotel

3F

Lôn Muriau, Llanrwst Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0HD T: 01690 710627 welcome@bryn-bella.co.uk www.bryn-bella.co.uk

Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AB T: 01690 710325 reception@glanaberhotel.co.uk www.hotelsinsnowdonia.com

A warm welcome awaits you at award-winning, eco-friendly Bryn Bella. Enjoy spectacular views of Betws-y-Coed and the surrounding area.

All rooms equipped to the highest standard for your comfort and pleasure. Highly commended by the AA, we are in the top 10% of places in Snowdonia.

Three star centrally located hotel with 25 bedrooms all en-suite and recently refurbished, own private car park. Public bar serving local real ale and homemade cooked food open til late. + + + Hotel

r5; A5; Open 1–12; B&B pp £40–£45

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r25; A25; Open 1–12; B&B pp £35–£55; 2 night B&Bpp: £64–£110 } CCZ(%sk] Gú ßZ*ß I h-

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Conwy Valley and Hiraethog

59

3F

Glyntwrog House

Walkers and cyclists welcome

Betws-y-Coed LL24 0SG T: 01690 710 930 F: 01690 733749 welcome@glyntwrogsnowdonia.co.uk www.glyntwrogsnowdonia.co.uk Janet & Ian Poole

Walking and cycling enthusiasts should look out for this sign, which includes the ‘boot’ and ‘ wheel’ symbols. Some properties qualify for both symbols, others just the one.

A beautiful Victorian house nestling in five acres of woodland. Enjoying spectacular views of the Conwy Valley. You can be assured of the warmest of welcomes and exceptional service from your hosts Janet and Ian Poole. Within easy strolling distance of Betws-y-Coed centre. All rooms beautifully appointed with en-suite facilities.

Wi-Fi throughout.

The symbols are displayed by properties that have undertaken to provide features which walkers and cyclists always find welcome.

They include drying facilities for wet clothes and boots, secure lockable areas for bikes, adequate storage space for rucksacks and packed lunches.

+ + + + Guest House

r5; A5; Open 1–12; B&B pp £32.50–£42

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Mount Garmon View Guest House

3F

Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed, Conwy LL24 0AN T: 01690 710335 welcome@mount-garmon.co.uk www.mount-garmon.co.uk Petra Wing

+ + + +

Elegant Victorian guest house in the centre of Betws-y-Coed. Ideal base for adventures or relaxing in the picturesque Snowdonia National Park. Rooms extremely clean and comfortable, with en-suite facilities. Wide choice of delicious breakfasts.

Private car park. Secure bike storage. Drying facilities. Free Wi-Fi. Fluent German spoken.

More information on website.

Guest House

r6; A5; Open 1–12; B&B pp £35–£42 } ( % k ] ú ß * I

4F

The Park Hill / Gwesty Bryn Parc Llanrwst Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0HD T: 01690 710540 F: 0872 1116197 welcome@park-hill.co.uk www.park-hill.co.uk J. Buis Our Home is your Castle. Family run. Ideally situated. Breathtaking views. Renowned for its informality, service and its teddy bears.

Indoor heated swimming pool with sauna free and exclusively for our guests, open 24h/day.

Secluded car park. Golf course and village within 6 minutes walking distance. + + + + Guest House

r8; A8; Open 1–12; B&B pp £33–£56; Weekly: B&B pp £225–£390 } ŒZ ( %k ] ú ßp * I

4F

Royal Oak Hotel Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AY T: 01690 710219 F: 01690 710603 royaloakmail@btinternet.com www.royaloakhotel.net The gateway to Snowdonia is right on the doorstep of this former Victorian coaching inn, which nestles at the foot of wooded hillside in the heart of the picturesque village.

and all rooms have flat screen TVs. The award-winning Llugwy River Restaurant offers modern Welsh cooking using local seasonal produce.

Rooms have been designed to incorporate contemporary luxury with the heritage and historical feel of the hotel, with rich fabrics, local art and stylish furnishings. Deluxe rooms feature sleigh beds, four posters or feature bathrooms.

Alternative dining options are the relaxed modern Grill Bar, serving the finest Welsh produce or the Stables Bar which has a rather special atmosphere with its regular music nights, plenty of cask ales and alfresco dining.

Guests benefit from complimentary membership of the nearby Stations Health & Beauty Complex with pool, gym, sauna, steam rooms and treatments suite. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel

The perfect base for exploring all of Snowdonia's wonders... look no further... it's all here!

+ + + Hotel

r27; A27; Open 1–12; B&B per room £115–£200;

Short Break: 2 night D B&B pp: £200–£400 } CZ ( % s k K] ú ßZßI

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www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

60

Conwy Valley and Hiraethog 4F

Stables Lodge

Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AR T: 01690 710411 F: 01690 710986 reservations@waterloo-hotel.info www.waterloo-hotel.info

Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AY T: 01690 710711 F:01690 710603 royaloakmail@btopenworld.com www.stableslodge.net All rooms are decorated to a high standard and offer tea & coffee making facilities, colour remote TVs with over 50 Freeview channels and 25 radio stations, ipod/ MP3 docking stations, double glazing and central heating. All rooms are situated + + + +

+ + + Hotel

r18; A18; Open 1–12; Per room, per night: £78–£90

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r33; A33; Open 1–12; B&B pp £67.50–£75

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Swallow Falls Complex Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 ODW T: 01690 710796 F: 01690 710191 swallowfall@btconnect.com www.swallowfallshotel.co.uk Peter Jones

+ + +

Extensive menu dominated by locally sourced produce at the recently refurbished Bridge Restaurant. Guests enjoy full use of our leisure facilities – indoor heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and fully equipped gym. Free Wi-Fi is also available throughout.

The ideal base to explore and discover the breathtaking scenery of Snowdonia's beautiful countryside and coast. Situated on the grounds of the hotel our modern, spacious lodge style rooms come complete with own parking space and once inside offer tea/coffee making facilities, flat screen TV and safe.

Rooms also availiable in main hotel.

on one floor with easy access lift. Other amenities include disabled facilities, bike storage, bike wash and drying room.

The Stables Bar next door offers a wide selection of meals and cask ales, alfresco dining and hosts regular music nights.

Guest Accommodation

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BEST WESTERN Waterloo Hotel

Situated just outside Betws-y-Coed opposite Wales’ most beautiful waterfall, Swallow Falls Complex has a wide range of accommodation to suit all tastes. The hotel offers 16 en-suite bedrooms, a 76-bed hostel plus camp-site with shower block and toilets. Other facilities include bars, restaurant, coffee shop, landscaped gardens and children’s play area, 5-a-side football, basketball and table tennis.

Elen's Castle Hotel and Restaurant

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4F

Dolwyddelan, Conwy LL25 0EJ T: 01690 750207 stay@hotelinsnowdonia.co.uk www.hotelinsnowdonia.co.uk Mrs Helen Hardy Fantastic 18th Century coaching inn.

Friendly, cosy, informal, great value.

Award-winning restaurant. Bar meals.

All rooms ensuite. Free Wi-Fi. Stunning views. Few minutes walk to 12th Century castle. Recommended. + + + Inn

r8; A8; Open 1–12; B&B pp £37.50–£45; 2 night B&Bpp: £120– £190; } C C Œ Z ( % k ]ú ß Z*I h-

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r19; A16; Open 1–12; B&B pp £30–£40 F } C C Œ Z ( %k] ú ßZ *ß I h-5 Ç =

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Cape Ca pell Cu Curi rigg 2F

Caerlyr Hall Conway Old Road, Penmaenmawr, Conwy LL34 6SW T: 01492 623518 F: 01492 622070 www.caerlyrhall.co.uk Mr and Mrs Warner Charming country house set in natural amphitheatre with sea and mountain views. All rooms en-suite and centrally heated. Excellent cuisine, fine wines and characterful bar. Non Smoking. Ideal for walkers, golfers, and historic building enthusiasts. Children welcome. Pets by arrangement. Ample parking. + + + + Guest Accommodation

r8; A7; Open 1–12; B&B pp £37–£42; Short Break: 2 night D B&B: £104–£114; Weekly: B&B pp £217–£252

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Conwy Valley and Hiraethog 3F

Trefriw Tourism Association Crafnant Lake – Trefriw

3F

Tyˆ Newydd Guest House Conwy Road, Trefriw LL27 0JH T: 01492 641210 tynewyddtrefriw@aol.com www.tynewyddtrefriw.co.uk Lillian Jones

Trefriw – between Betws-y-Coed & Conwy Gateway to the North Wales Lakes Set in the glorious Snowdonia National Park, this friendly village is a world away from the crowds and commercialism of the larger resorts. It offers a wide choice of accommodation, places to eat and two real village pubs, but keeps its atmosphere of peace and tranquillity...a place to forget the pressures of modern life. Trefriw’s Woollen Mill is a popular place to visit.

Discover our wonderful scenic walks by visiting www.trefriwtrails.org.uk

61

Located in pretty village centre within Snowdonia National Park, 4 miles from A5 at Betws-y-Coed, 9 miles from A55 at Conwy. Nearby friendly pubs/restaurants. Easy access to all North Wales attractions, lakes, walks, mountains, coastal towns, Bodnant Gardens, castles, golf, horse riding, mountain zoo, woollen mills and much more.

Lil and Allan welcome you.

+ + + Guest House

For Trefriw village brochure T: 01492 640013 Or visit us at: www.4snowdoniaholidays.co.uk

r4; A2; Open 1–12; B&B pp £30; 2 night B&B pp: £60; Weekly: B&B pp £175–£195

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3F

Crafnant Guest House Trefriw, Conwy LL27 0JH T: 01492 640809 crafnanthouse@btinternet.com www.trefriw.co.uk Jan and Mike Bertenshaw

Coedfa Cottages

3F

Betws-y-Coed, Conwy LL24 0SG T: 01824 704855 glennevans2@mac.com www.cottage-snowdonia.co.uk Victorian Gentleman's residence with adjoining charming workers cottage.

Stands high on sunny side of valley offering breathtaking views. Full of charm and originality enjoying 3/4 acre garden and woodland. Plenty of parking and village walking distance. Use of spa facilities at Waterloo Hotel which is a short walk.

Whether you’ve discovered the mountain lakes which nestle above our village – conquered Snowdon or strolled around the stunning Conwy Valley – then rest assured of the comfort and warm welcome of Crafnant House – beautifully appointed former Victorian farmhouse, an excellent central base, with traditional pubs and exceptional food on the doorstep.

+ + + + and + + + + + Self-Catering

+ + + +

Open 1–12; Coedfa Bach Sleeps 4; Weekly: per unit £300–£708; Coedfa House Sleeps 8; Weekly: per unit £650–£1841 }CZ%k ß* Ih-y ÇI

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3F

Princes Arms Hotel

Gw G wyd dirr Caasstl tle neear a Lllaan nrrws wstt 2F

Garreg Lwyd Cottage 3 Erskine Terrace, Conwy LL32 8BS T: 07742 900367 tjmountain@yahoo.com www.stayconwy.com Tom Mountain Cosy two bedroom artisan cottage in a quiet cul-de-sac, inside the UNESCO World Heritage town of Conwy, with its 13th century castle and walls, nearby Snowdonia National Park.

This comfortable cottage is fully equipped and modernised, centrally heated, parking at front door. Full pictures and details on website. + + + + Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 4; Weekly: per unit £260–£510; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £200

}Z%k] ß*IyÇI Trefriw, Nr Betws-y-Coed, Conwy LL27 0JP T: 01492 640592 enquiries@princes-arms.co.uk www.princes-arms.co.uk Picturesque National Park location central to Snowdonia’s mountains and coast with beautiful lakes and forests around us.

Delightful en-suite bedrooms, king size beds with memory foam mattresses and Egyptian cotton sheets. Fantastic views across the river Conwy. All have colour TV, free Wi-Fi throughout hotel, tea/coffee,

Llannerch Goch Luxury Cottages hairdryer. Laundry facilities with drying room. Ample private hotel car parking. Our award-winning restaurant highlights our expertise in country cuisine with friendly attentive service complementing the dining experience. Log fires and cosy lounge bar to round off the perfect day in Snowdonia.

Capel Garmon, Betws-y-Coed, Conwy, Snowdonia LL26 0RL T: 01690 710261 stay@betwsycoed.co.uk www.betwsycoed.co.uk 3 luxury cottages with king-size en-suite bedrooms in contemporary or traditional style. 2 miles from picturesque village of Betws-y-Coed, Snowdonia National Park.

Stunning views of the Snowdonia Mountain range. Free Wi-Fi connection.

+ + +

+ + + + + + + + +

Hotel

Self Catering

r9; A9; Open 1–12; B&B pp £40–£47.50; Short Break: 2 night B&B pp £80–£90; 2 night D B&B pp £130–£150; Weekly: B&B pp £280–£300; D B&B pp £455–£490

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Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–4; Weekly: per unit £340–£795; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £230–£360 F}CZ ( A %] ß* h-y ÇI

3F

The Old Forge Pen y Graig, Llanbedr y Cennin, Conwy LL32 8JD T: 01492 660663 h.fudge@btinternet.com www.oldforge-cottage.co.uk Roberta Fudge A comfortable, well-furnished, cosy cottage in the beautiful Conwy Valley.

Ideal for peaceful, relaxing breaks or for enjoying the glories and history of Snowdonia and the coast. + + + + Self-Catering

Open 3–1; Sleeps 2; Weekly: per unit £280–£460; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £160–£190

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62

Conwy Valley and Hiraethog 3F

Bodnant Caravan Park

Nebo Road, Llanrwst, Conwy Valley LL26 0SD T: 01492 640248 info@bodnant-caravan-park.co.uk www.bodnant-caravan-park.co.uk Mrs Ermin Kerry-Jenkins Small select site for touring caravans, motorcaravans, tents and 2 holiday caravans, bordered by trees and a stream. Many years winner of “Wales in Bloom”, landscaped with shrubs, flower beds and old farm machinery. Set in our beautiful Conwy Valley, an ideal base for exploring the mountains, lakes and coast of North Wales.

Multi-service & hard standing/grass caravan pitches. + + + + Holiday, Touring & Camping Park

Open 1–10; Pitches: Touring 34, Tents 14; Statics for hire: 2; Touring daily £18.50–£19.50; Tent £14.50–£15.50; Self catering holiday caravans weekly £255–£360

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Bangor, Caernarfon, Llanberis and the Villages of Snowdonia 2D

Garden Hotel

3D

Bron Menai Guest House

1 High Street, Bangor LL57 1DQ T: 01248 362189 F: 01248 371328 reception@gardenhotel.co.uk www.gardenhotel.co.uk Mr Andrew Lui

North Road, Caernarfon LL55 1BA T: 01286 675589 enquiries@bronmenai.co.uk www.bronmenai.co.uk Mrs V Ashcroft

The Hotel is situated on the High Street, close to Bangor railway station, with 10 en-suite bedrooms and delicious freshly-prepared food and fine wines served every day in a warm welcoming atmosphere. Saint Deiniol's Cathedral, University and Penrhyn Castle all within walking distance makes us an ideal place to stay.

Caernarfon, the centre of north Wales. Visit Mount Snowdon, slate/copper mines. Llyˆn Peninsula, Isle of Anglesey. Climbing, walking, sailing, golf, fishing.

Explore the castle, take a train ride on the Welsh Highland Railway to Porthmadog. A five minute walk to the town centre for a variety of eating establishments.

+ + +

+ + + +

Guest Accommodation

Guest Accommodation

r11; A10; Open 1–12; B&B pp £39.50–£45 }C Œ(A% sk]ú ßZI

r10; A10; Open 1–12; B&B pp £30–£50; 2 night B&B pp: £50–£110 F } C Z(A% k] ú ß* I _

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3D

Brynhyfryd St Davids Road, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 1EL T: 01286 673840 M: 07775 627299 eroyle369@btinternet.com Mrs Eunice Diana Royle

Space to... explore

A tastefully furnished Victorian town house with views over the Menai Straits. Bright and pleasant en-suite bedrooms, one with private roof garden. Close to castle and town centre.

Ideal location for mountains, lakes and beaches.

A warm welcome awaits you in this family run guest house. Alarmed storage for motorbikes and cycles.

enjoy

eat sleep

63

relax Single en-suite rooms starting from

£29.50

Contact us on: 01248 388088 | conferences@bangor.ac.uk

+ + + + Guest House

www.conferencebangor.co.uk

r2; A2; Open 1–12; B&B pp £30–£32.50

Campus Accommodation

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4E

Tanronnen Inn

3D

Celtic Royal Hotel

Beddgelert LL55 4YB T: 01766 890347 F: 01766 890606 tanbedd@12freeukisp.co.uk www.tanronnen.co.uk Mr A Hughes Located in the centre of the village, which is situated at the head of the magnificent Glaslyn Pass in the heart of the Snowdonia National Park.

All rooms furbished to the highest standard.

Family rooms available, TV in bedrooms.

Mastercard, Visa, Eurocheque, Switch, Delta accepted. Robinsons traditional draught beers. + + + + Inn

r7; A7; Open 1–12; B&B pp £50–£55; 2 night B&B pp: £100–£120; Weekly: B&B pp £330–£500 } C ŒZ ( % k ] ú

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3D

Plas Dinas Country House Bontnewydd, Caernarfon LL54 7YF T: 01286 830214 info@plasdinas.co.uk www.plasdinas.co.uk

The hosts offer friendly and attentive service at their Gold Award winning luxury country house.

The historic building has nine individually designed rooms with free Wi-Fi, great views, Molton Brown toiletries and other little touches. Evening meals availiable. Trip Advisor Excellence Award winner.

Close to tourist attractions including Snowdon.

Bangor Street, Caernarfon LL55 1AY T: 01286 674477 F: 01286 674139 reservations@celtic-royal.co.uk www.celtic-royal.co.uk This deluxe hotel offers 110 luxurious en-suite bedrooms, fine dining, art deco bar, stylish conference facilities hosting 300 delegates. 1600 sq feet dance floor, leisure club with 16 mtr pool. Situated in the historical town of Caernarfon by the Snowdonia National Park, near

Welsh Castles, gardens, golf courses and beaches. Easy access to Bangor Station, Holyhead Ferry Port and Manchester and Liverpool Airports. Special overnight packages available.

+ + + + + + + + Guest Accommodation

r9; A9; Open 1–12; B&B pp £49.50–£124.50 F} C C ( % k] Z* I

Hotel

r110; A110; Open 1–12; B&B pp £60–£75; 2 night D B&B pp: £89–£190; Weekly: D B&B pp £347–£525

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64

Bangor, Caernarfon, Llanberis and the Villages of Snowdonia

Seiont Manor Hotel

3D

The Royal Victoria Hotel

3D

Llanberis, Gwynedd LL55 4TY T: 01286 870253 F: 01286 870149 enquiries@theroyalvictoria.co.uk www.theroyalvictoria.co.uk Mr Steve Lee

3D

Llanrug, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 2AQ T: 01286 673366 F: 01286 672840 seiontmanor@handpicked.co.uk www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/seiontmanor Situated in 150 acres of mature farmland, Seiont Manor offers a traditional country house hotel. The bedrooms are the very essence of comfort. Dining options include the awardwinning restaurant or the brasserie offers a more relaxed dining experiece. For relaxing our swimming pool, sauna and fitness rooms are perfect.

+ + + Country House Hotel

r28; A28; Open 1–12; B&B pp £55–£95; 2 night B&B pp: £80–£180 F } C Œ Z ( % sk] ú

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Tyˆ Mawr Farm Llanddeiniolen, Caernarfon LL55 3AD T: 01248 670147 jane@tymawrfarm.co.uk www.tymawrfarm.co.uk Jane Llewelyn Pierce

Comfortable well appointed farmhouse with uninterrupted views of Snowdon. Centrally situated between Caernarfon and the mountain range.

Fully centrally heated with log fires in two lounges, a separate panelled dining room ideal for that relaxing holiday. Evening meals optional. All rooms en-suite and very spacious with beverage tray and freeview TV. Brochure available on request.

Free Wi-Fi available.

+ + + + Farmhouse

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Erw Fair

+ + +

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3D

Ty’n Rhos Country House

High Street, Llanberis LL55 4HA T: 01286 872400 erwfair@fsmail.net www.erwfair.com Martin Ross

Seion, Llanddeiniolen, Caernarfon LL55 3AE T: 01248 670489 F: 01248 671772 enquiries@tynrhos.co.uk www.tynrhos.co.uk Stephen and Hilary Murphy

Lovely, elegant 19th century Welsh stone house. Comfortable, friendly, informal relaxation for families, couples and groups. Excellent breakfast, packed lunches, free parking. Lounge and drying facilities. Colour TV, tea & coffee facilities in all rooms. A splendid centrally located venue for all wanting to enjoy the beautiful Snowdonia mountain scenery, whether touring, walking, climbing or cycling. Free Wi-Fi.

Beautiful Country House set in idyllic gardens and stunning scenery. Close to Snowdon mountain.

Superb cuisine and select wine list. Individually styled bedrooms with luxury bedding, towels and robes. Relaxing/romantic breaks. Exclusive use and select groups also welcome. Open for afternoon teas, lunch and dinner.

Guest House

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Glyn Afon Guest House

+ + + + + Guest Accommodation

r17; A17; Open 1–12; B&B pp £47.50–£82.50; 2 night D B&B pppn: £80–£115

r8; A5; Open 1–12; B&B pp £25–£35

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+ + + Hotel

r106; A106; Open 1–12; B&B pp £33–£74; Short Break: 2 night D B&B: £68–£209

r2; A2; Open 1–12; B&B pp £32–£35; 2 night B&Bpp: £64–£70

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The hotel is set in 30 acres of gardens and woodland, cradled between lakes Padarn and Peris, and dwarfed by mount Snowdon. The location is simply breathtaking, with two restaurants, two bars and comfortable en-suite rooms.

An ideal base for exploring North Wales. Five minutes walk to Llanberis village.

2E

Rhiwiau Guesthouse

72 High Street, Llanberis LL55 4HA T: 01286 872528 info@glyn-afon.co.uk www.glyn-afon.co.uk Barry and Sue Kendrick

Off Ffordd Gwyllt, Llanfairfechan LL33 OEH T: 01248 681143 rhiwiau@aol.com www.rhiwiau.co.uk Ruth Carrington

Graded Bed & Breakfast accommodation in Llanberis, “the gateway to Snowdonia”. Ten minutes walk to the base of mount Snowdon, the Welsh Slate Museum and scuba diving in Vivian Quarry.

Llyn Padarn and Padarn Country Park 100 metres from the door. Anglesey and the Llyˆn Peninsula, thirty minutes drive.

Family run guesthouse with 4 en-suite rooms. Cosy sitting rooms and a terrace with panoramic views of mountains and sea.

Evening meals, enjoy home cooking, drinks licence. Situated 600 feet up in a secluded valley but only 5 minutes from the main A55.

Private parking.

+ + + +

+ + + +

Guest House

Guest House

r8; A8; Open 1–12; B&B pp £30–£37. Price based on two people sharing. } ( % k ] ú ß Z 9p * j ß

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Bangor, Caernarfon, Llanberis and the Villages of Snowdonia 4E

Bron Meirion Cottage Bron Meirion, Nantmor, Beddgelert LL55 4YG T: 01248 450690 tony@hirst-hafod.co.uk www.hirst-hafod.co.uk Tony Hirst

Charming spacious cottage in picturesque hamlet of Nantmor above Glaslyn Valley. Close to Welsh Highland Railway. Walk Snowdonia hills from doorstep. Beddgelert 1.5 miles, Porthmadog 7 miles, beach 9 miles. Pine kitchen with rayburn, dishwasher, washer/dryer, microwave. Lounge and study with beamed ceilings, woodburner. Bedlinen and towels provided. + + + +

Dinas Farm Holidays

3D

Dinas Farm, Dinas LL54 5UB T: 01286 830537 rhian@dinasfarm.co.uk www.dinasfarm.co.uk Rhian Williams Spacious, clean, comfortable farmhouse wing with beautiful countryside and coastal views. Ideally located between the mountains and coast of Snowdonia.

So much to see and do for everyone.

+ + + + Self-Catering

Self-Catering

Open 3–11; Sleeps 2–6; Weekly: per unit £250–£690; Short Break: 3 nights: price on enquiry. } Z ] ß* j I hy I

Open 1–12; Sleeps 6; Weekly: per unit £250–£635; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: from £200–£300

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3D

Bryn Bras Castle

Distinctively appointed, comfortable apartments, for 2 persons, within unique Grade II* Listed Regency Castle. Extensive garden/grounds with views midst magnificient Snowdonian countryside. Centrally located. Truly relaxing tranquility – ideal for couples.

No children. Good restaurants/pubs nearby. Open all year, flexible start/depart days, as preferred, for weeks/short breaks. + + + +

3D Glan-y-Bala, Llanberis, Caernarfon LL55 4TY T: 01286 871097 enquiries@glanybala.com www.glanybala.com Mrs S. Handler Breathtaking views! Two quality self-catering accommodation in victorian country house plus beamed cottage and featured slate fireplace.

7 acres of private woodland. Bed linen, towels, electricity, central heating included. Beautiful terraces, barbecue, drying room, cycle store with ample parking.

+ + + + Self-Catering

Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–10; Weekly: per unit £322–£1210; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £176–£828

Fully inclusive rents (inc. breakfast cereals and much more...) Weekly from £600.

Special romantic breaks. Short breaks e.g. 2 people for 2 nights from £250.

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+ + + +

Penr Pe nrrhy h nC Caastle sttlee, Baanggo orr

Glan-y-Bala Holidays

Llanrug, Caernarfon LL55 4RE T/F: 01286 870210 holidays@brynbrascastle.co.uk www.brynbrascastle.co.uk Mrs Marita Gray-Parry

Self-Catering

Nant Gwynant, Beddgelert, Caernarfon LL55 4NW T: 01299 832077 info@snowdoniaholidays.com www.snowdoniaholidays.com Mr & Mrs R. Gready Cosy detatched ancient longhouse by river, looking straight at Snowdon south ridge, beautiful surrounding mountains, spectacular waterfalls. Explore numerous local attractions; enjoy wonderful walking straight from cottage.

Fuel, bedding, towels included. Two comfortable bedrooms. Large garden. Parking. Children and pets welcome. Cot, washing machine, drier, dishwasher, microwave. Many games, books, CDs, DVDs, Wi-Fi.

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3D

Hafoty Farm Cottages Rhostryfan, Caernarfon LL54 7PH T: 01286 830144 info@hafoty.com www.hafoty.com Elaine Moss

Nestled in a peaceful rural location between the spectacular Snowdonia National Park and the tranquil Caernarfon Bay, with glorious views from our cottages, along with a wealth of beaches, mountains and history to explore. Our six picturesque cottages range from characterful, traditional cottages to stylish, modern barn conversions.

+ + + + Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 1–4 + cot; Weekly: per unit £295–£595; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £190–£255

Open 3–1; Sleeps 2–6; Weekly: per unit £215–£440; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £140–£355

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Coed Gelert Holiday Cottages

+ + + + +

65

4D

3D

Trosgol Fach

Coed Gelert, Beddgelert, Caernarfon LL55 4YQ T: 01766 890 880 glaslyn.leisure@ukgateway.net www.snowdonia-cottages.net

Deiniolen, Caernarfon LL55 3LU T: 01286 872478 mail@trosgol.co.uk www.trosgol.co.uk Paul Dicken

Five high quality, modern cottages in village centre with private parking. Fully equipped, including dishwasher, en-suite facilities, utility/drying room and garden with patio. Gas central heating, electricity, bed linen and towels included. Cottages command views of Glaslyn Valley and surrounding mountains. Ideal for active or relaxing breaks with friends or family.

Trosgol Fach, a 175 year-old cottage is a quiet, comfortable retreat for two with stunning views of Snowdonia's mountains. The cottage has Freesat-TV, DVD, and free Wi-Fi access. Sunny patio facing mountains and attractive garden.

Near Llanberis, perfect for walkers or just relaxing.

See video on www.bit.ly/Trosgol_Fach

Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 1–6; Weekly: per unit £385–£910; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £250–£600 } Z ( A s ] ß * I h - y Ç I

+ + + + Self-Catering

Open 4–8; Sleeps 2; Weekly: per unit £375–£395; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £195

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66

Bangor, Caernarfon, Llanberis and the Villages of Snowdonia 3D

Tˆy Mawr Farm Cottages

3D

Cae Berllan Cottages Cae Berllan, Tyn Lon, Llandwrog, Caernarfon LL54 5SN T: 01286 830818 anncaeberllan@aol.com www.caeberllan.co.uk Ann Marie Owen

Three stone cottages all with modern conveniences, garden areas and separate childrens play areas. Ideal location for visiting North Wales. Cottages are large with ample space for everyone. Ideal for people with reduced mobility. Three acre orchard for children to play.

Ideal for cyclists, walkers and large families.

+ + + + Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–14; Weekly: per unit £195–£625; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £110–£190

F}CZ(% Tˆy Mawr Farm, Llanddeiniolen, Caernarfon LL55 3AD T: 01248 670147 M: 07989 621987 jane@tymawrfarm.co.uk www.tymawrfarm.co.uk Jane Llewelyn Pierce

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5D

Beddgelert Cottages Snowdonia Tourist Services, Porthmadog LL49 9PG T: 01766 513829 F:01766 513837 office@sts-holidays.co.uk www.sts-holidays.co.uk

A choice of 4 charming spacious cottages set in a private courtyard on a working farm 4 miles from Snowdon. Ample parking. Very central to Caernarfon, Anglesey and Lleyn Peninsula. All cottages with wood-burners and central heating.

100 acres to walk about. Reduction for couples.

Brochure available upon request. Free Wi-Fi available.

We have a selection of riverside cottages in Beddgelert and surrounding villages. Accommodate 2–6 persons and pets. All have been inspected by the Visit Wales inspector. Some have fishing rights.

Visit our website for full descriptions, photos, virtual tours, access statements and customer feedback.

1+ – 5+ Self-Catering

+ + + + Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–8; Weekly: per unit £252– £972; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £204–£780

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–4; Weekly: per unit £250–£750; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £150–£400

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4C

Caernarfon Bay Holiday Park Dinas Dinlle, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL54 5TW T: 01286 830492 info@caernarfonbay.com www.caernarfonbay.com Chloe Ellis The perfect peaceful holiday retreat with panoramic views and unspoilt countryside.

Caernarfon Bay is the ideal base for you.

50 yards from blue flag award winning beach.

A small, quiet park offering top quality 2-3 bedroom holiday bungalows and caravans with gardens and parking. Shop & café on site.

80% of our visitors return. Pets welcome.

+ + + + Holiday Park

Open 1–12; Statics: 17; Statics for hire: 4; Static Daily: £45–£70; Static Weekly: £170–£450; Short breaks available min 3 nights.

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Plas-y-Bryn Chalet Park Bontnewydd, Caernarfon LL54 7YE T: 01286 672811 info@plasybryn.co.uk www.plasybryn.co.uk Mr and Mrs Livingston This small park is situated two miles from the historic town of Caernarfon. Set into a walled garden it offers safety, seclusion and beautiful views of Snowdonia. Village pub and shops nearby. Choice of caravans or pine lodge availiable for hire or purchase with two or three bedrooms available on request. + + + + Holiday Park

Open 3–12; Statics:18; Statics for hire:9; Static Daily: £50; Static Weekly: £225–£650; Short Breaks: 3 nights £135–£340

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Llyˆn Peninsula 6A

Gwesty Ty Newydd

5B

The Old Rectory

Aberdaron, Pwllheli LL53 8BE T: 01758 760207 gwestytynewydd@btconnect.com www.gwesty-tynewydd.co.uk Iain Roberts

The Old Rectory, Boduan, Pwllheli LL53 6DT T: 01758 721519 theashcrofts@theoldrectory.net www.theoldrectory.net Gary & Lindsay Ashcroft

Four star Inn situated on the shores of Aberdaron Bay. Fantastic views and a guaranteed warm welcome all year round. En-suite rooms with sea views. Disabled room available with a lift to all floors. Dine in the restaurant, enjoying meals cooked with fresh locally produced ingredients.

A beautiful Georgian house set in three acres of grounds. Centrally situated between Pwllheli and Nefyn with great access to all areas of the Peninsula. Close to marina, beaches, golf courses and pubs/restaurants. Ample parking. Locally sourced food. All tasteful en-suite rooms feature fine linens, toiletries, tea tray, TV. Self-catering cottage also available. Dog kennel and run for visiting dogs.

+ + + + Inn

+ + + + +

r11; A11; Open 1–12; B&B pp £65–£70 single occupancy;

Bed & Breakfast

r3; A3; Open 1–12; B&B pp £45–£60 } C(%k]úß*I h-

£100–£125 based on 2 people per room

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5B

Nant Gwrtheyrn Llithfaen, Pwllheli LL53 6NL T: 01758 750334 F: 01758 750335 post@nantgwrtheyrn.org www.nantgwrtheyrn.org Mair Saunders

Large multi-purpose function room for up to 300.

4+ accommodation cottages. Contact us for information on: • Welsh courses • Weddings • Conferences • Meetings • Events • Heritage Centre • Exhibitions • Guided Tours • Café + + + +

+ + + +

Self-Catering Group Accommodation

r31; A31; Open 1–12; B&B pp £55–£66; Self Catering: Sleeps 2–6; Weekly: per unit £300–£975; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £190–£560. Welsh Language & Heritage Centre and gift shop; Open: Jan–Dec, 7 days (10am–5pm) Free entry.

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Graeanfryn Farm

Gwyliau Fferm Crugeran Farm Holidays

6B

Morfa Nefyn, Pwllheli LL53 6YQ T: 01758 720455 M: 07711 540999 jan@graeanfrynfarm.co.uk www.graeanfrynfarm.co.uk Jan Harrison All bedrooms are luxuriously appointed each with tea & coffee making facilities and hairdryer, with outstanding country views. Guests have their own lounge, separate Breakfast Room and free Wi-Fi. Ideal for business and holiday visitors alike.

Fabulous breakfast with eggs from our own girls.

Garden patio with chess and croquet. + + + + + Farmhouse

r4; A1; Open 1–12; B&B pp £37.50–£57.50 inclusive of full English breakfast. } % - ] úß*

5C

Hendre Barns Hendre Penprys, Pentre Uchaf, Pwllheli LL53 8EZ T: 01758 750505 enquiries@hendre-barns.co.uk www.hendre-barns.co.uk

+ + + +

Centrally located on the Llyˆn Peninsula with views of Yr Eifl and Snowdonia. Our luxury rooms have private entrances and level access throughout. Facilities include whirlpool baths, walk-in showers, egyptian cotton bedding, Freeview TV/DVD, free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, tea and coffee facilities. Near Portmeirion, steam railways, coastal walking and beaches.

Bed & Breakfast

r3; A3; Open 1–12; B&B pp £30–£37.50; Stay 3 nights or more to receive a 10% discount.

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Crugeran, Sarn Meyllteyrn, Pwllheli LL53 8DT T: 01758 730375 post@crugeran.com www.crugeran.com Rhian Parry An exciting and exceptional new development of two large cottages to sleep 10 and 14, with saunas, steam-showers, granite top high-spec kitchens and more.

Deri Lleyn and Gadlas are less than a mile away from our other 3 cottages sleeping 7, 5 and 4 here at the working farm Crugeran. Surrounded by glorious

countryside. Enjoy quality time with friends or family, relax in the whirlpool-type baths after walking the Lleyn/Llyˆn Coastal Path, or bouncing on our trampolines. Our guests return. Searching for that feel good factor – it’s here! Welcome – Croeso.

+ + + + + + + + + Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 1–24; Weekly: per unit £220–£1800; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £150–£1100

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68

Llyˆn Peninsula 6B

Tyddyn Difyr

5B

Carrog Farm Cottages

Llanengan, Abersoch, Pwllheli LL53 7LG T: 01286 831184 enq@tyndon.co.uk www.tyddyndifyr.co.uk Elisabeth Evans Spacious, well-equipped cottage overlooking Porth Neigwl (Hell’s Mouth Bay). Beach 300 yards with private access. Sitting room opening onto patio and large lawn. Three bedrooms, sleeps five.

Beautiful coastal walks on doorstep. Surfing, cycling routes, golfing, bird watching. Abersoch 2 miles. Cleanliness guaranteed. Short breaks.

No pets. No smoking. Croeso.

+ + + + Self-Catering

Open 3–10; Sleeps 2–5; Weekly: per unit £250–£650; Short Break: 3 nights from: £150

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Cefn Coed Holiday Cottages

5C

7 Mersey Street

5D

Lôn Goed, Chwilog, Pwllheli LL53 6NX T: 01766 810259 enquiries@cefncoedholidays.co.uk www.cefncoedholidays.co.uk Julie Hughes

Borth-y-Gest, Nr Porthmadog LL49 9UB T: 01952 462177 M: 07971 955614 kind286@btinternet.com www.cottage-borth-y-gest.com Contact: Patricia Kind, Holly Cottage, Church Lane, Sheriffhales, Shropshire TF11 8RD

Enjoy a peaceful holiday in one of our three 19th century cottages, fully equipped, enclosed gardens. Panoramic views of Cardigan Bay coast and mountains. Ideal base to explore Snowdonia.

Cosy Cottage, near harbour, beach, shop and restaurant. Ideal for walking, sailing and golfing. Central for touring Snowdonia.

Full central heating, all modern amenities.

Regret no pets.

+ + + +

+ + +

Self-Catering

Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 1–16; Weekly: per unit £280–£800; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £190–£260 F } C Z A

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Looking for a family holiday, romantic short break, a walking holiday with friends or a large family get together? Look no further!

Three luxury converted barns sleeping 4, 6 and 8, in beautiful countryside with sea views. Ideally located for exploring the peninsula's sandy beaches, coastal walks, golf courses, horse riding, boat trips etc.

Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–18; Weekly: per unit £250–£870; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £150–£500

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5B

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+ + + +

Beautiful location, excellent views to sea, beach and Snowdonia. Convenient for all areas. 19th century converted stone cottage with low beams.

Extremely comfortable and cosy. One double bedroom and one twin bedded room. Fully fitted kitchen and bathroom. Brochure on request. Short breaks available out of season. Parking for 2 cars.

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5B

Bron Rûg

Pen-y-Bryn, Goleu, Llanbedrog, Pwllheli, Gwynedd LL53 7RE T: 01758 740741 brookes28@btinternet.com www.abersoch.co.uk/ybwthyn Mrs P J Brookes

Self-Catering

Well-equipped kitchens, underfloor heating, Nintendo Wii, Wi-Fi, patio areas, large garden and washing/dryer facilities, Pets accepted. Towels provided. Welcome hamper with homemade Bara Brith on arrival. Just relax!

+ + + + + + + + +

Open 1–12; Sleeps 4; Weekly: per unit from £220–£500; Short Break: 3 nights min £50 per night } Z ( ß * I y Ç J (

Y Bwthyn

Carrog, Llangwnadl, Pwllheli LL53 8NL T/F: 01758 730670 carolgwilym@fsmail.net www.carrogfarm.co.uk Mrs Carol Thomas

Mynytho, Pwllheli LL53 7PS T: 01286 830144 info@hafoty.com www.hafoty.com Elaine Moss

+ + + +

Bron Rûg is a lovely traditional farmhouse conversion in a peaceful, rural setting. The cottage is set in enclosed lawned gardens with a fabulous patio and large barbecue, enjoying pleasant country views. The charming village of Abersoch, just a short drive away, offers magnificent beaches, gorgeous restaurants and superb shopping.

Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–4; Weekly: per unit £300–£500; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £200–£300

Open 3–1; Sleeps 6; Weekly: per unit £340–£440; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £170–£355

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Keep up to date with events, what’s new and information on special offers by joining us on our social networks.

Lô ôn Go oed ed, Chwilog

www.visitsnowdonia.info

Llyˆn Peninsula

69 5C

Dwynant Dwynant Dinas, Pwllheli LL53 85P T: 01758 770606 Ann Jones

Immaculate Country Cottage is located in peaceful countryside in the very heart of Llyˆn Peninsula. Seaside resorts Morfa Nefyn, Nefyn, Abersoch, 15 minutes drive.

Peace tranquility ideal! Firm favourite with returning guests. Ideal for cyclists and walkers. + + + + Self-Catering

++–+++++ Self-Catering

Baard dseey Is I laan nd d 5B

Bryn Crin

5B

Garreg Lwyd Farm Morfa Nefyn, Pwllheli LL53 8UR T: 01758 720684 or 07771 677449 www.garreglwydfarm.co.uk

Edern, Pwllheli LL53 8YY T: 01758 720435 annwen@nefyncountrycottage.co.uk www.nefyncountrycottage.co.uk Mrs Annwen Jones

Enjoy a peaceful, relaxing holiday in our renovated farmhouse near beautiful Llyˆn coast.

Ideally situated for mountain, coastal and country walks. 5 minutes by car from beaches, shops, golf, riding and fishing. Extremely comfortable & well-equipped comprising: 3 bedrooms; bathroom; lounge; kitchen/dining. Large garden and parking space. Central heating optional.

Relax and enjoy a peaceful break in this well-appointed cottage. Views of hills and open countryside. Ideal base to explore the Lleyn Peninsula. Enjoy beaches, walks, cycling. Near to golf course and costal path. Ample parking for cars, boats etc. Storage available. Ideal for families, couples or friends. + + + +

+ + + +

Self-Catering

Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 5–6; Weekly: per unit £300–£640; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £180

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Enjoy freedom from traffic and stunning mountain views with our Llyˆn Peninsula and Dolgellau cycle breaks packs.

www.visitsnowdonia.info

5C

Brynhyfryd

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–4; Weekly: per unit from £275; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: from £125 F}CZ ( K] * Ih - y I

Gorwel Holiday Cottage

5C

Broom Hall Road, Abererch, Pwllheli LL53 6PN T: 01758 612805 barrie@gorwel.info www.gorwel.info B. Grayson Attractive stone cottage. Stunning elevated sea views. Very comfortable. Modern kitchen. Luxury bathroom. Four bedrooms one en-suite. Large car park, 2 patios, large garden. Electricity & linen included.

Heating, TV & DVD + + + + + Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–8; Weekly: per unit £650–£1100; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £450 F } Z ( A] *I h- yI

Caernarfon Road, Pwllheli LL53 5LG T: 01758 613501 regandavid@pwll.ndo.co.uk www.brynhyfryd.org.uk Brynhyfryd, built by William Jones, a successful shipbuilder, in c1842, stands in well-kept grounds over looking the harbour and marina, with views over Cardian Bay to the mountains of mid-Wales. Shops, pubs, beaches and the sailing club are within ten minutes walk.

We welcome guests into Bwthyn (two bedrooms) a cottage within our grounds + + + +

and Brynbach (one bedroom) a selfcontained garden flat within our house.

Within our grounds we provide table tennis, badminton, croquet, a barbecue grill and garden furniture.

+ + + + +

Self-Catering

Open 4–10; Sleeps 2–6; Weekly: per unit £250–£495

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www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

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Llyˆn Peninsula 5C

Gwynfryn Farm Holidays Ltd

5C

Rhosgyll Fawr Cottages Rhosgyll Fawr, Chwilog, Pwllheli LL53 6TQ T: 01766 810832 stay@rhosgyllfawr.co.uk www.rhosgyllfawr.co.uk Adrian and Rachel Jackson

Tranquil 25 acre lake and woodland nature reserve with two cosy detached cottages alongside owner’s home, each with private garden. Nestled between majestic mountains of Snowdonia and unspoilt coastline of Llyn Peninsula. Ideal place to unwind or as a base for walking, cycling and exploring area.

Under new ownership for 2014.

+ + + + Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–4; Weekly: per unit £280–£550; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £180–£340

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Sea Front Holiday Flats Gwynfryn Farm, Pwllheli, Gwynedd LL53 5UF T: 01758 612536 gwynfrynfarm@btconnect.com www.gwynfrynfarm.co.uk Sharon Rees Ellis Gwynfryn is an organic dairy farm on the outskirts of Pwllheli in the heart of the Lleyn Peninsula. Old farm buildings have been converted into cosy quality cottages sleeping between 2–8. All the comforts of home with Wi-Fi connection in each unit. For those rainy days we have a heated indoor pool, sauna,

jacuzzi, fitness room, and for the more energetic a tennis court, indoor/outdoor play area, trampoline and tractors. From May until the end of August a weekly BBQ is arranged – giving mum a well deserved night off. Don't book a holiday, book an experience, much more than self-catering!

5C

4 West End Parade, Pwllheli LL53 5PN T: 01614 454218 M: 07780 703235 info@seafrontflats.co.uk www.seafrontflats.co.uk Mrs C. Woski Sea front holiday flats overlooking beautiful beach. 50 yards from beach. Well equipped.

Spacious. All flats with fantastic sea view. Studio and 3 bedrooms flats. Close to golf course, marina & leisure centre. 10 minutes walk to town. Ideal for sailing, fishing and walking. + + + Self-Catering

3+ – 5+ Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–8; Weekly: per unit £225–£1350; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £180–£480

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5C

Hendre Barns: Delfryn

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–5; Weekly: per unit £165–£440; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: from £120 F}CZ (A] ß* I Z y ÇI

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Bwthyn Meillionydd Bach

6A

Hendre Penprys, Pentre Uchaf, Pwllheli LL53 8EZ T: 01758 750505 enquiries@hendre-barns.co.uk www.hendre-barns.co.uk Emma Rees

Rhoshirwaun, Pwllheli LL53 8HY T: 01758 780 318 meillionyddbach@tiscali.co.uk www.meillionydd.co.uk Mrs Lowri Thomas A tastefully semi-detached 4 star barn conversion for 2 (plus 1 child). 3 miles from the picturesque village of Aberdaron. Cosy, comfortable and warm.

Open plan with a mix of modern and antique furnishings. Log burner for those cosy nights in after a special day of walking the coastal path. Explore the sandy beaches and the countryside and have a restful night in the king size bed. Croeso cynnes.

Centrally located on the Llyˆn Peninsula with stunning views, Delfryn offers open plan living with level access throughout. Two king bedrooms (one en-suite), one twin. Vaulted ceilings with exposed beams, wood-burner, Freeview TV/DVD, Wi-Fi. Private decking with barbecue. Dogs welcome.

Linen and towels inclusive. Near Portmeirion, steam railways and beaches.

+ + + +

+ + + +

Self-Catering

Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 2–6; Weekly: per unit £250–£800; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £175–£420

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Open 1–12; Sleeps 1–2; Weekly: per unit £280–£380

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Llyˆn Peninsula Farm Holidays

6B

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Meillionydd Bach

Llyˆn Peninsula Farm Holidays gwynedd@llawrdref.co.uk www.happyhols.com

Rhoshirwaun, Pwllheli LL53 8HY T: 01758 780 318 meillionyddbach@tiscali.co.uk www.meillionydd.co.uk Mrs Lowri Thomas

For free colour brochure contact: Annie gwynedd@llawrdref.co.uk T: 01758 712570

Relax, unwind in a tastefully furnished accommodation. Near the picturesque village of Aberdaron. Ideally situated for coastal and country walks. Numerous sandy beaches to explore.

Oil CH and electricity inclusive. Free linen, towels.

Log burner for those cosy nights in. Special rates for 1–2 persons. Also barn conversion sleeping 2.

Croeso cynnes.

Owner booking cuts cost.

Come stay with us on the beautiful Llyˆn Peninsula, area of outstanding natural beauty. Enjoy: • panoramic views • boat trips • walking • golfing • surfing • pony trekking Yes! all pastimes are catered for on the Lleyn. + + + +

+ + + +

Self-Catering

Self-Catering

Open 1–12; Sleeps 1–12; £POA; Short Breaks available F }C Z -]Z y Ç I

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Open 3–10; Sleeps 1–5; Weekly: per unit £280–£480

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Llyˆn Peninsula 6B

Tyn-y-Mur Touring & Camping Park Lon Garmon, Abersoch, Pwllheli LL53 7UL T: 01758 712328 info@tyn-y-mur.co.uk www.tyn-y-mur.co.uk

Wi-Fi

am ddim free

The nearest Camping and Touring Park to the renowned village of Abersoch, a short stroll away, with its beautiful beaches. Elevated park with excellent panoramic views of Snowdonia, Cambrian Mountains, Hells Mouth and Bardsey Island. The nearest shop is just 5 minutes walk away in the tiny picturesque village of Llangian.

View from the park

Graeanfryn Farm

71 5B

Morfa Nefyn, Pwllheli LL53 6YQ T: 01758 720455 M: 07711 540999 jan@campingnorthwales.co.uk www.campingnorthwales.co.uk Jan Harrison Outstanding country views. Level grass, BBQ, picnic area. 1 mile from sandy beaches. Pub with food and play area 500 yds. Shop ½ mile. New toilets and landscaping. Fresh eggs. Friendly family site. + + + Touring & Camping Park

+ + + + Touring & Camping Park

Available at our TICs, see back cover for details.

Open 1 Mar – 31 Oct; Pitches: Touring 40, Tents 40; Touring Daily £18 – £25 We accept seasonal tourers.

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Open 3–10; Statics:1; Statics for hire:1; Pitches: Touring & Tents 40; Touring Daily £15–£30; Static Weekly: £300–£395 } C] ß5 Ç =

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www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

72 Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr | Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 2013 1 2

TAKE YOUR PICK...

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INTRODUCING WALES’S HOLIDAY AREAS

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For FREE copies of any THREE Holiday Area brochures please tick the appropriate boxes and send to: Visit Wales, Freepost CF1550, Dept R04, PO Box 1, Cardiff CF24 2XN

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Snowdonia Mountains and Coast is one of the Holiday Areas within Wales. Each area has its own distinct character.

The Isle of Anglesey Anglesey offers unparalleled beauty, amazing adventures, serious solitude and a warm welcome. Easily accessible, this unique island, with its coastline, varied beaches and historical towns make it a superb base for all the family.

Those that have visited need not be told. They just return… t: +44 (0) 1248 713177 e: anglesey@nwtic.com www.visitanglesey.co.uk www.facebook.com/visitanglesey Llandudno and Colwyn Bay Vibrant Llandudno, the Victorian seaside gem with a history that goes back to the Bronze Age. World Heritage Conwy with its rich maritime past. Waterfront adventure in Colwyn Bay. Year-round breaks, filled with family fun, good food, great walking, world-class theatre and a full calendar of exciting events. All within easy reach of Snowdonia. t: +44 (0)1492 577577 e: llandudnotic@conwy.gov.uk www.visitllandudno.org.uk www.facebook.com/visitingllandudno www.twitter.com/visit_llandudno North-East Wales Less than 20 minutes from Chester, we’re just a short journey from the North West and the West Midlands.

There’s everything from the bustling shops and cultural events of Wrexham to the culinary delights of the Mold Food and Drink Festival and the world-famous Llangollen International Eisteddfod. The area includes Rhyl, one of the best recognised British seaside resorts and the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We even have an 11-mile long World Heritage Site – the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal – and you can also walk the ancient Offa’s Dyke Path running through Chirk out to the coast at Prestatyn. t: +44 (0) 1978 292015 e: tourism@wrexham.gov.uk t: +44 (0) 1745 355068 e: rhyltic@denbighshire.gov.uk www.northeastwales.co.uk Mid Wales My Way Featuring the Brecon Beacons National Park, Dyfi Biosphere, Cambrian Mountains, Lake Vrynwy and the Berwyns and Offa’s Country. Magnificent walks – two national trails, waterfalls and many other breathtaking walks besides. Muddy Wheels – cycling on- and off-road.

A great track record – four years with the Tour of Britain, home to the Dyfi Enduro and Beacons Beast. Family traffic-fee routes to extreme mountain biking await.

Year-round events – from Hay Literary to Machynlleth Comedy, from Green Man to the Royal Welsh and Winter Shows, celebrating our agricultural heritage. Stay in magnificent mansions or wacky wigwams. All topped off with mouthwatering cuisine, local whiskies and marvellous wines. That’s Mid Wales My Way! t: +44 (0)1874 622485 e: tourism@powys.gov.uk www.midwalesmyway.com

The Isle of Anglesey Llandudno & Colwyn Bay North-East Wales Ceredigion – Cardigan Bay & the Cambrian Mountains Carmarthenshire – Carmarthen Bay Swansea Bay, Mumbles, Gower, Afan & the Vale of Neath

The Valleys – Heart & Soul of Wales Cardiff – Capital of Wales The Glamorgan Heritage Coast & Countryside NB. Mid Wales, Pembrokeshire and WyeValley/ Vale of Usk do not produce brochures – please see websites.

Name (please print): Address (please print): Post Code: Ceredigion – Cardigan Bay and the Cambrian Mountains Discover the landscape, villages and harbours that inspired Dylan Thomas and delve into Wales’s history at Cardigan Castle. Walk gentle or challenging sections of Ceredigion’s coast path from a promenade stroll at Aberystwyth to hillfort climbs at Llangrannog. Spot dolphins and birds; enjoy family fun at award-winning beaches and all sorts of events; relax and savour Cardigan Bay seafood to Cambrian Mountain lamb. t: +44 (0)1970 612125 e: brochure@ceredigion.gov.uk www.discoverceredigion.co.uk facebook: discoverceredigion twitter: @visitceredigion Pembrokeshire – Britain’s Only Coastal National Park Rated by National Geographic magazine experts as the second-best coastline in the world. With 186 miles (299km) of magnificent and varied coastline and over 50 beaches, there’s plenty of space for everyone. Choose between lively Tenby and Saundersfoot or peaceful St David’s and Newport. Perfect for outdoor activities or just relaxing. www.visitpembrokeshire.com Carmarthenshire – Carmarthen Bay The last place that Dylan Thomas called home and the best place to be to celebrate and capture his centenary celebrations in 2014. Carmarthenshire stretches from Carmarthen Bay in the south to the western Brecon Beacons and the Cambrian Mountains in the north, with wondrous gardens, awe-inspiring castles, Wales’s longest beach, market towns brimming with local produce and chic shopping. t: +44 (0)1267 231557 e: marketing@carmarthenshire.gov.uk www.discovercarmarthenshire.com Swansea Bay – Mumbles, Gower, Afan and the Vale of Neath Discover Dylan Thomas in Wales’s Waterfront City, birthplace of our poetic hero and playwright. Be a part of his centenary celebrations throughout 2014. Spend some time in the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Unwind on award-winning beaches and explore unspoilt countryside. Bring your board, bike and boots and enjoy watersports, cycling and walking. t: +44 (0)1792 468321 e: tourism@swansea.gov.uk www.visitswanseabay.com

The Valleys – Heart and Soul of Wales World-class mountain biking and other activities on, over and under landscapes that are never short on drama. Proud communities bursting to tell you their stories about Wales’s largest castle, a World Heritage Site, craft beers and ciders and an intriguing cast of heroes from the mythological past to the contemporary music scene. You haven’t visited Wales until you’ve been to the Valleys – the Heart and Soul of Wales. t: +44 (0)29 2088 0011 e: contactus@thevalleys.co.uk www.thevalleys.co.uk Cardiff, Capital of Wales The capital of Wales has unique attractions, top-class entertainment, a wide range of accommodation to suit all needs and quality shopping with a difference. Cardiff Castle, the Millennium Stadium, National Museum Cardiff, the Wales Millennium Centre and famous Doctor Who Experience combined with Cardiff Bay offer indoor and outdoor entertainment for everyone all year round. t: +44 (0)29 2087 3573 e: visitor@cardiff.gov.uk www.visitcardiff.com The Glamorgan Heritage Coast and Countryside The dramatic Heritage Coast and popular resorts of Barry Island and Porthcawl are fringed by lovely Vale and Bridgend countryside and green hills. Discover the special character of an area steeped in history – and it’s close to Cardiff, Wales’s cosmopolitan capital. t: +44 (0)1446 704867 t: +44 (0)1656 815338 e: tourism@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk e: tourism@bridgend.gov.uk www.visitthevale.com www.bridgendbites.com The Wye Valley and Vale of Usk Fantastic scenery and high-quality food and drink from the Brecon Beacons National Park to the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Explore castles, Roman towns and beautiful gardens; then take in award-winning vineyards, bustling market towns and great local pubs. With the renowned Newport and Abergavenny Food Festivals, celebrated restaurants and artisan producers, discover why we’re the Food Capital of Wales. t: +44 (0)1291 623772 e: tourism@monmouthshire.gov.uk www.visitwyevalley.com

ACTIVITIES FOR ALL...

For FREE copies of any of the activity guides please tick the appropriate boxes and send to: Visit Wales, Freepost CF1550, Dept SO4, PO Box 1, Cardiff CF24 2XN

Wales is the UK’s activity capital. Find out more with the help of these FREE actionpacked guides – and take a look at the websites.

Name (please print): Address (please print): Post Code: Fishing Wales

Golf Wales

Fishing. With endless coastline and countless rivers and lakes it’s no wonder Wales is an angler’s paradise. www.fishing.visitwales.com

Golf Wales. The secret’s out! More and more players are discovering – and thoroughly enjoying – ‘Golf as it should be’ in Wales. www.golfasitshouldbe.com

Gwybodaeth am deithio

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TRAVEL INFORMATION Access couldn’t be easier. Snowdonia Mountains and Coast is only a few hours away from most of the UK’s main population centres, with excellent road, rail and coach links. Airport delays, red-eyed flight times and those pile -’em-in packages have well and truly taken the shine off international travel.

There are no such worries here – we’re so close you’ll arrive before you know it.

Irish Ferries and Stena Line operate regular and high-speed services to Holyhead from Dublin and Dun Laoghaire. For southern Snowdonia, ferry services into Fishguard and Pembroke Dock are a handy alternative.

By train

Irish Ferries T: 08717 300400 www.irishferries.com

Direct train services take you to the popular North Wales coastal destinations from most parts of Britain, with inland connections via the Conwy Valley Line (www.conwyvalleyrailway.co.uk) which runs through the Snowdonia National Park to Betws-y-Coed and Blaenau Ffestiniog.

Services from the Midlands through Shrewsbury and Machynlleth link up with the Cambrian Coast Railway. T: 08457 484950, www.thecambrianline.co.uk Train tickets are available from Barmouth Tourist Information Centre. Useful websites include: www.thetrainline.com www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk www.nationalrail.co.uk www.thecambrianline.co.uk www.traveline-cymru.info www.conwy.gov.uk/cvr

By coach National Express services run to Llandudno, Bangor, Caernarfon, Porthmadog and Pwllheli from London and Manchester. Express Motors and Lloyd’s Coaches operate the service from South Wales to Dolgellau, Porthmadog, Caernarfon and Bangor as part of the TrawsCymru network.

surrounding area and further afield. www.nationalcyclenetwork.org.uk

By sea

Stena Line T: 08705 707070 www.stenaline.co.uk

By air Transfers from the international gateways of Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham take less than two hours. An air route between Cardiff Airport and Anglesey Airport takes just over an hour (T: 0871 200 0440, www.manx2.com).

Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Swansea

The Explore Wales Pass is just what it says – one ticket that gives you unlimited access to all of Wales’s mainline train services and almost every bus service.

T: 0845 6061 660 www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk/ ExploreWalesPass North Wales Rover tickets allow travel for one day on buses and trains. For details of zones and prices: T: 0870 608 2618 www.taith.gov.uk/travel-options/northwales-rover

Anglesey Airport T: 01407 878056 Caernarfon Airport T: 01286 830800

Travel details

Manchester Airport T: 08712 710711 www.manchesterairport.co.uk Liverpool John Lennon Airport T: 0871 521 8484 www.liverpooljohnlennonairport.com

T: 0871 200 2233 www.traveline-cymru.info www.gwynedd.gov.uk/publictransport

Birmingham Airport T: 0844 576 6000 www.bhx.co.uk

Journey times by car

Local services

Birmingham – Porthmadog: 2hrs 46min

The Snowdon Sherpa is the superconvenient bus service for Snowdonia and its attractions, with some routes on open-top buses. Whether you are walking or sightseeing, take the green option, leave your car behind, sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery.

Aberystwyth – Caernarfon: 1hr 47min Bristol – Barmouth: 3hrs 46min Cardiff – Bangor: 4hrs 16min Fishguard – Bangor: 3hrs 24min Fishguard – Dolgellau: 2hrs 11min Holyhead – Bangor: 32min London – Betws-y-Coed: 4hrs 37min

By car

Manchester – Caernarfon: 2hrs 2min

There’s quick, straightforward access from the North West along the M56 and A55.

Motorway links with the Midlands are good too, and the same roads – the M6, M5 and M1 – also bring North Wales within easy reach of the South of England. For a scenic option from the Midlands, take the A5 through the heart of Snowdonia.

Swansea – Porthmadog: 3hrs 25min

By bike It’s easy to use pedal power to come to beautiful, bike-friendly Snowdonia Mountains and Coast by following the National Cycle Network. Quiet, traffic-calmed and trafficfree routes give good access from the

The Sherpa service is part of the Snowdonia Green Key initiative which helps people enjoy the National Park in a sustainable way. Green Key is making it easier to see Snowdonia without a car by promoting the sensible management of car parking, with convenient interchanges with public transport at places like Betws-y-Coed, Llanberis, Nant Peris and Capel Curig. www.snowdoniagreenkey.co.uk

Glasgow – Bangor: 5hrs Aberdeen – Caernarfon: 7hrs 57min Edinburgh – Porthmadog: 5hrs 55min Newcastle – Barmouth: 4hrs 51min Local distances Aberdaron – Betws-y-Coed: 1hr 43min Aberdovey – Caernarfon: 1hr 41min Bangor – Dolgellau: 1hr 17min Dolgellau – Caernarfon: 1hr 3min Tywyn – Pwllheli: 1hr 36min Journey times supplied by: www.theaa.com

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Conwy Morfa

Tal-y-cafn

Llanfihangel Glyn Myfyr Nantmor

Llangwm

Cricieth Llandderfel

Porthmadog Morfa Bychan

Llaniestyn Porth Iago Porth Oer/ Whistling Sands

Park

SNOWDONIA ERYRI

Llyn Myngul

Talyllyn

This map splits Snowdonia into six colour-coded areas, corresponding with the way we have divided the list of advertisers: CRICIETH, PORTHMADOG AND THE VALE OF FFESTINIOG 46-50

CARDIGAN BAY 51–54

Symbols key ÿ C

Car parking facilities Ground floor bedroom Liquor/table licence, licensed club/bar Pets accepted by arrangement

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May be booked through Travel Agent Weekend/Midweek/Short breaks available TV in bedroom/unit En-suite Tea/coffee Telephone in room/unit Credit cards accepted Cot available Highchair available

SOUTHERN SNOWDONIA 55–57

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CONWY VALLEY AND HIRAETHOG 58–62

Baby sitting/listening service

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Special diets catered for Lift Welsh spoken

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Public transport nearby Café/restaurant on site Foodshop/mobile foodshop on site Swimming pool on site Garden Working farm Coach parties welcome WiFi access

BANGOR, CAERNARFON, LLANBERIS AND THE VILLAGES OF SNOWDONIA 63–66

LLYˆN PENINSULA 67–71

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Accommodation bookable through Tourist Information Centre

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Charge for fuel/gas

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Washing machine on site Electric points for touring caravans Showers Bed linen available Bed linen available for hire Gas available Chemical toilet Access improved for mobility impaired people Access improved for visually impaired people Access improved for hearing impaired people

O’r radd orau – Canllaw i Sicrwydd Ansawdd

MAKING THE GRADE – A GUIDE TO QUALITY ASSURANCE All the accommodation featured in this publication has been independently assessed so you can make your choice in confidence, knowing that each place to stay has been given a rating according to the quality and facilities on offer. These ratings mean that you can be sure of standards and choose the accommodation that’s just right for you.

Visit Wales/AA are the only checking agents in Wales, checking out over 5,000 places.

STARS are your guide to quality. The Star Quality Grading Schemes apply to all types of accommodation: Serviced – hotels, guest houses, bed and breakfast, farm accommodation, hostel/hostel type accommodation. Self-catering – cottages and apartments and caravan holiday home and touring/camping parks All accommodation grades are based on a set of common quality standards agreed by Visit Wales, Visit England, Visit Scotland and the AA. The star ratings reflect the facilities and overall quality of the experience.

What do our star ratings mean?

Accommodation operators are graded between one and five stars (with five stars being the highest) based on the overall quality of the experience and the facilities available.

Accommodation differs in style and therefore different rating schemes apply to different types and styles of business. To help you make your choice, each star-rated business will also be given a designator to describe the style of accommodation you can expect.

Serviced accommodation Establishment name (Colour header panel indicates the type of accommodation)

Self-catering How many people the property can sleep Caravan and camping parks How many caravans on site and for hire and how many pitches available for touring caravans and tents

+ + + + + Guest House

Number of bedrooms and en-suite, months open, prices and short breaks information Facilities symbols. A full explanation of these symbols is on page 74

Many lower star rated accommodations may still offer high quality but do not meet all of the facility and service expectations for the higher star ratings. It is particularly important not to compare Guest Accommodation ratings against Hotel ratings as different criteria are used when assessing.

All Visit Wales graded properties have an Access Statement. This statement tells visitors in a clear, accurate and honest way how the property can meet their particular needs.

Three symbols have been introduced to help visitors with physical impairments find the Access Statements of most relevance to them.

Accommodation providers have selected the one symbol which best describes the improvements they have made to their properties. Look out for these symbols:

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Access improved for mobility impaired people

v Access improved for visually impaired people i Access improved for hearing impaired people

The advice is to always check with an establishment before booking to check that the accommodation offers the services and facilities that meet your needs – they will be only too pleased to help.

Please note

Also look out for that extra-special property that has been awarded Visit Wales’s Gold Award, given for exceptional standards of hospitality, comfort and food in serviced accommodation.

All gradings and awards were correct at the time of going to press. Occasionally, it may not have been possible to undertake a grading. This situation is clearly identified by ‘Awaiting Grading’ appearing within the advertisement/entry.

Occasionally, it has not been possible to visit the accommodation prior to publication. In these instances, the property is marked as ‘Awaiting Grading’.

Grading assessments are on-going and improvements made by establishments may have resulted in a revision since publication.

Please check when booking.

Some accommodation operators have chosen not to be star rated, but they have been checked out to ensure that they provide an acceptable level of services and facilities appropriate to their type of business.

They are identified as either ‘Verified’ of ‘Listed’.

Further information on gradings and awards is available from Visit Wales, Welsh Assembly Government, Rhodfa Padarn, Llanbadarn Fawr, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion SY23 3UR t: 0845 010 8020 e: quality.tourism@wales.gsi.gov.uk www.wales.gov.uk/tourism

A Warm Welsh Welcome

Any problems?

In the unfortunate event that you do encounter problems with your chosen accommodation, please refer to www.wales.gov.uk/tourism for further guidance.

Look out for this sign as these places have achieved a Croeso Award in recognition of their exceptional Warm Welsh Welcome.

Self-catering accommodation 4F Penmachno, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0PU T: 01690 760410 F: 01690 760410 stay@penmachnohall.co.uk www.penmachnohall.co.uk Lauraine and Simon Awdry AA Award 2010/11: 5-star Highly Commended guest accommodation, with separate luxury 2-bedroomed self-catering cottage. Originally a Victorian rectory, Penmachno Hall offers panoramic views, en-suites with roll-top baths, award-winning food, fine wines and winter open fires. The interiordesigned coach house has jacuzzi bath, power shower, free-sat and internet. Virtual tours at www.penmachnohall.co.uk

r3; A3; Open 1–12; B&B pp £40–£47.50 (based on 2 night stay) 2 nights; Evening meals: Welsh suppers, Tue–Fri, £15–£17.50 pp; 5-course dinners Sat only: £35–£37.50; Self-Catering: Sleeps 2–4; Weekly: per unit £350–£650; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: £262.50–£337.50

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Accommodating visitors with disabilities

Does a lower star rating equal less quality?

Penmachno Hall

Serviced The number of rooms and how many are en-suite

75

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Caravan and camping Map reference Establishment address

This descriptive text is supplied by the owners of the property and may include facilities on offer both at the accommodation and the surrounding area Visit Wales grading

Symbols that appear here are for awards gained by the accommodation or extra facilities on offer

The prices given here depend on the type of accommodation and will give an indication of the minimum and maximum prices you will be expected to pay – these should always be checked with the owners at time of booking Serviced accommodation: All prices are per person, based on 2 people sharing a double or twin room Daily rate with B&B Short break – B&B 2 nights with B&B DB&B – 2 Nights with Dinner, B&B Per week B&B – 7 nights with B&B DB&B 7 nights with Dinner, B&B Self-catering accommodation: Per week – 7 nights, per unit (not per person) Short break – 3 nights, per unit (not per person) Caravan and camping park accommodation: Daily rate, per unit or pitch Per week – 7 nights, per unit or pitch Short breaks – will be indicated in the adverts descriptive text

www.ymweldageryri.info | www.visitsnowdonia.info

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES CANOLFANNAU CROESO Make the most of your stay by using our Tourist Information Centre network and free Wi-Fi at some locations. Staff will be delighted to assist you with: • booking accommodation in advance or whilst here • providing details of places to visit, things to see and do • places to eat • routes and itinerary planning • purchasing train tickets (at Barmouth TIC only) • National Express tickets • information and tickets for local and national events, activities and boat trips Maps, guides, books and local produce are also for sale at the TICs.

Llanberis* Electric Mountain, Llanberis LL55 4UR T: 01286 870765 • Free Wi-Fi llanberis.tic@gwynedd.gov.uk

Y Bala* Pensarn Road, Bala LL23 7SR T: 01678 521021 • Free Wi-Fi bala.tic@gwynedd.gov.uk

Snowdonia National Park

Barmouth/Abermaw Station Road, Barmouth LL42 1LU T: 01341 280787 • Free Wi-Fi barmouth.tic@gwynedd.gov.uk

Beddgelert T: 01766 890615

Caernarfon Oriel Pendeitsh, Castle Street, Caernarfon LL55 1SE T: 01286 672232 • Free Wi-Fi caernarfon.tic@gwynedd.gov.uk

Llandudno Library Building, Mostyn Street, Llandudno LL30 2RP T: 01492 577577 llandudnotic@conwy.gov.uk Porthmadog High Street, Porthmadog LL49 9LP T: 01766 512981 • Free Wi-Fi porthmadog.tic@gwynedd.gov.uk Pwllheli* T: 01758 613000 pwllheli.tic@gwynedd.gov.uk

Aberdyfi** T: 01654 767321

Betws-y-Coed T: 01690 710426 Dolgellau T: 01341 422888 Harlech** T: 01766 780658 * open seasonally (April–September) ** open seasonally (April–October)

Conwy Muriau Buildings, Rose Hill Street, Conwy LL32 8LD T: 01492 577566 conwytic@conwy.gov.uk

www.visitsnowdonia.info tourism@gwynedd.gov.uk T: 01341 281485 (24 hour messaging service)

Scan our QR code with an App on your phone to view our website.

Tourist Information Points Abergynolwyn, Y Ganolfan, LL36 9YF Abersoch, The Vestry, High Street, LL53 7DS T: 01758 712929 Bangor, Gwynedd Museum and Art Gallery, Gwynedd Road, LL57 1DT Blaenau Ffestiniog, 45 High Street, LL41 3AA Corris, Corris Craft Centre, SY20 9RF Cricieth, Post Office, LL52 0BU Tywyn, Library, Neptune Road, LL36 9HA

Gwynedd Digital Tourist Information Points Caban, Brynrefail LL55 3NR Fitzpatricks Café, Bethesda LL57 3AY Gwesty Tyˆ Newydd, Aberdaron LL53 8BE Inigo Jones, Groeslon LL54 7UE Oriel Plas Glyn y Weddw, Llanbedrog LL53 7TT Parc Padarn, Llanberis LL55 4TY Talyllyn Railway, Tywyn LL36 9EY Yr Hen Bost, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 3AA Caffi Tegid Cafe, Penllyn Leisure Centre, Y Bala LL23 7SR

Conwy Digital Tourist Information Points Glasdir, Station Road, Llanrwst LL26 0DF Opposite car park, Pentrefoelas LL24 0LE Spar, Church Street, Dolwyddelan LL25 0NZ Tree Top Adventure, A470, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0HA Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre, Llyn Brenig, Cerrigydrudion LL21 9TT