Eryri Snowdonia. Mynyddoedd a Môr Mountains and Coast

Transcription

1 Eryri Snowdonia Mynyddoedd a Môr Mountains and Coast 2012

2 Too much information? Is there such a thing in this Information Age? We don t think so. We know you like to post and blog about Snowdonia Mountains and Coast on our website, Facebook, YouTube and Twitter feeds. And we get a buzz from keeping you up to date on what s happening brings big news from this part of the world. We ve included it in this guide items about the new Wales Coast Path, for example, exciting developments at our Centres of Excellence for outdoor activities, and our very own Cultural Olympiad. But we ll also be talking about the underlying reason why so many of you choose this destination for your holiday or short break your proper holiday, to quote Visit Wales. It s spelt out in three words on the front cover: mountains and coast. It will take a few more words to tell you all about our natural beauty and wildlife, ospreys and oakwoods, National Park, nature reserves and protected shorelines of Outstanding Natural Beauty. And we couldn t finish without mentioning our slow food and fast activities, little trains and big castles, and that special Sense of Place that springs from our distinctive cultural heritage. This guide is full of ideas to get you going. Use it along with our website and other media to keep up to speed with Snowdonia Mountains and Coast. Roger Thomas Editor Gormod o wybodaeth? Oes yna r fath beth yn yr Oes Wybodaeth hon? Nid ydym yn credu hynny. Gwyddom eich bod yn hoffi postio a blogio am Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr ar ein gwefan, Facebook, YouTube a phorthiant Twitter. Ac rydym ni n cael gwefr wrth eich cadw chi n gyfredol. Mae 2012 yn dod â newyddion mawr o r rhan hon o r byd. Rydym wedi i gynnwys yn y canllaw hwn eitem am Lwybr Newydd Arfordir Cymru, er enghraifft, datblygiadau cyffrous yn ein Canolfannau Rhagoriaeth ar gyfer gweithgareddau awyr agored, a n Olympiad Diwylliannol ein hunain. Ond fe fyddwn hefyd yn siarad am y rheswm sylfaenol y mae cymaint ohonoch yn dewis y gyrchfan hon ar gyfer eich gwyliau neu egwyl fer eich gwyliau iawn, i ddyfynnu Croeso Cymru. Caiff ei sillafu mewn tri gair ar y clawr blaen: mynyddoedd a môr. Bydd yn cymryd mwy na geiriau i ddweud popeth wrthych am ein harddwch naturiol a bywyd gwyllt, gweilch y pysgod a choedwigoedd derw, Parc Cenedlaethol, gwarchodfeydd natur a thraethlinau o Harddwch Naturiol Eithriadol wedi u diogelu. Ac ni allwn orffen heb sôn am ein bwyd araf a gweithgareddau cyflym, trenau bach a chestyll mawr, a r Naws am le arbennig hynny sy n codi o n treftadaeth ddiwylliannol nodedig. Mae r llyfryn hwn yn llawn o syniadau i roi blas ichi. Defnyddiwch ef gyda n gwefan a chyfryngau eraill i gael y diweddaraf am Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr. Just say the word If there s anything we ve left out, or you want more information, you know where to go. Don t forget, it s a two-way process. Let us know what you think, and share your thoughts with others. Join the conversation: And if you prefer to pick up the phone, call our Tourist Information Centres (see back cover). Published by: Tourism, Marketing and Customer Care Service, Cyngor Gwynedd Council, Economy and Community Department, County Offices, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 1SH. Copyright T: , tourism@gwynedd.gov.uk Cyngor Bwrdeistref Sirol Conwy County Borough Council. Editorial written by Writerog Ltd (Roger Thomas Freelance Services) Designed and produced by Peter Gill & Associates Printed by Westdale Press Photographs: Alastair Tye / fellrunningpictures.co.uk; Crown Copyright (2010) Visit Wales; Cyngor Gwynedd Council; Conwy County Borough Council; ExPix 2011; Kiran Ridley Photography; Mike Storey; Panorama Cymru; PM Photography; Photo Gen 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 brochure please forward to a friend or place in a suitable recycling container.

3 Glynllifon Conwy Castle Woodland trail near Penmachno Here s what you ll find inside 2 Counting Mountains Lots to count, lots to do 4 Beach Boys An expert s guide to some of our best beaches 6 Touchstones Castles and culture, people and places 8 Look, it s Local Tasty food, tasteful shopping 10 Wales Coast Path 12 The Activity Alphabet Activities from A to Z here s an introduction 14 Let s Go Four more pages devoted to activities on land and sea. You wouldn t expect any less from such an all-action destination 18 It s Great Outdoors (and Indoors Too) Pages of attractions and green activities 28 Events 32 Around and About A guide to our towns and villages (* see Splitting Snowdonia Mountains and Coast into six) 44 Accommodation Listing (* see Splitting Snowdonia Mountains and Coast into six) 72 Wales s Holiday Areas 73 Travel Information 74 Snowdonia Map 75 Making the Grade A Guide to Quality Assurance Back cover Tourist Information Centres local information on places to visit, events, travel and accommodation booking This page: Aberdyfi / Cover: Criccieth 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 32 43) we describe each area separately. This is followed by the Accommodation Listing (pages 44 71), presented as follows: 44 Bangor, Caernarfon, Llanberis and the Villages of Snowdonia 50 Conwy Valley 55 Southern Snowdonia 58 Cardigan Bay 62 Criccieth, Porthmadog and the Vale of Ffestiniog 68 Llŷn 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 pullout section at the back of this publication will assist you with your selection process

4 Counting mountains Cyfri mynyddoedd You ll need more than the fingers of both hands and the toes of two feet to count all our mountains. Snowdonia is the mountainous heart of Southern Britain. Let s begin with the Big One, Snowdon itself (Y Wyddfa, The Tomb in Welsh), at 3,560ft the highest summit in Wales and England. It s rocky, rough and tough but that s how we like our mountains. Don t think that just because you can take a train ride to the top Snowdon isn t a proper peak. Ask any walker or climber who knows a thing or two about the Great Outdoors they ll soon tell you that Snowdonia is up there, riding high with those classic Alpine destinations. The 3,000 Club So let s start counting. There are 14 (or possibly 15 mountain accountants can t agree) peaks over 3,000ft in Snowdonia. You might have heard of some. Triangular Tryfan (a mere 3,002ft) is a famous landmark, offering some of the best scrambling and views in Britain. Other dominant features include the Y Glyderau and Y Carneddau, mountain ranges consistently higher than 3,200ft. 2,000 and counting Actually, we ve given up counting the peaks above 2,000ft. There are just too many and many are just as formidable as Snowdon. Cader Idris in the south, for example, rears up from the shores of the beautiful Mawddach Estuary, only running out of steam at 2,927ft. The Moelwynion range (2,527ft) flanking the Vale of Ffestiniog and the Arans (2,970ft) above the lake of Llyn Tegid are big and bold too. But if you want to explore the last true wilderness in Southern Britain then head west to the remote, road-less Rhinogydd plateau, its 2,475ft summit lost amongst the rocks and heather. Tall isn t all Snowdonia isn t all high and mighty. The Snowdonia National Park s whopping 823 square miles covers some ground. Way down below those mountains there are sheltered valleys thick in ancient oakwoods, scenic lakes, forests packed with activities (world-class mountain biking for starters), tumbling rivers and beauty spots like Swallow Falls and the amazing, landlocked Bird Rock (or Craig y Deryn), a former sea-cliff inland from Llwyngwril still colonised by seabirds. Above: Top of Snowdon and Hafod Eryri, Opposite: Cader Idris / Snowdon 2 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

5 0 1 /4 0 1 /2 3 /4 The Knowledge Six of the best. The six official routes up Snowdon all offer sensational walking. They re all about the same length (around eight miles there and back) so take your pick from the Llanberis Path, Miners Path, Pyg Track, Watkin Path, Rhyd Ddu Path and dsnowdon Ranger. See our website for full details. Snowdonia National Park. It s one of Britain s most dramatic and varied National Parks, a mix of rugged mountains and green valleys, sandy beaches and idyllic estuaries. Download the new Enjoy Snowdonia iphone app from the website. This mobile guide s maps and information on walking, activities and attractions help you get the most out of your visit. While you re at it, take a look at the Snowdonia/Eryri e-magazine. And find out more about the great range of courses at the Plas Tan y Bwlch Snowdonia National Park Study Centre. Room at the top. Hafod Eryri is the stunning new visitor centre on the summit of Snowdon, constructed of granite with a window on the world wall of glass. Clear-day views are suitably spectacular. When it s misty, cheer yourself up with a nice cup of tea and a welshcake. Your keys to a greener Snowdonia. It s easy to go green in Snowdonia. Start by ditching the car. The go-everywhere, hop-on, hop-off Snowdon Sherpa bus service runs on a joined-up network tailor-made for walkers and sightseers. Then there s the Green Key website, which has lots of information on transport (including the Snowdon Sherpa bus network), walking, cycling, itineraries and attractions, all with green appeal. For more ideas on how to make your visit as planetfriendly as possible, together with information on the Green Snowdonia Tourism Awards, go to I Bwllheli To Pwllheli 0 CYCHWYN START Sant Enddwyn St Enddwyn s S I Fachynlleth To Machynlleth Dyffryn Ardudwy DYFFRYN ARDUDWY Pentre Uchaf Pentre Bach Borth Wen GORFFEN FINISH 0 1 A496 b Bro Arthur A496 Siambrau claddu Burial Chambers Siambr gladdu Cors-y-Gedol burial chamber Milltir/Miles A496 Ffordd Glan y Môr S Map Explorer OL18 yr Arolwg Ordnans (cyf. grid: SH581233) Ordnance Survey Explorer OL18 (grid ref: SH581233) PROFFEIL GRADDIANT/GRADIENT PROFILE I Bwllheli To Pwllheli TALYBONT I Fachynlleth To Machynlleth 1 Toiledau Toilets b Talybont GRADDFA/SCALE Milltir/Miles Parc Isaf Troedfedd Feet Cymerwch ofal yn Tafarn ymyl yr afon! Ysgethin Take care near river! Inn A496 Parc Uchaf Train trails. Here s another green idea. Catch the scenic Cambrian Coast line from Machynlleth to Pwllheli. Get off at one of the many Cambrian Trailways along the way. These self-guided linear walks take in spectacular coastal and mountain scenery the hills between Aberdovey/Aberdyfi and Tywyn, for example, or across the lovely Mawddach Estuary (on the footpath that s part of the famous railway bridge) from Llwyngwril to Barmouth/Abermaw. All details on the website, plus information on three Seaside Strolls. The largest, naturally. Bala s Llyn Tegid is 4½ miles long, making it the largest natural lake in Wales. We have many others, natural and man-made the secretive lakes of Llyn Geirionydd and Llyn Crafnant, for example, hidden from view in the Gwydir Forest above 3 Grisiau/Steps Cwm Ysgethin Valley Cors-y-Gedol Gogledd North 1 2 S Terfynau caeau a safleoedd aneddiadau cynhanesyddol Prehistoric field boundaries and settlement sites Siambr gladdu Burial Chamber Llettylloegr Afon Ysgethin/River Ysgethin ALLWEDD/KEY Trywydd y llwybr troed gyda r pellter a gerddwyd o r cychwyn mewn milltiroedd The footpath route with distance walked from the start in miles Llwybr arall (nid o reidrwydd hawl tramwy) Other path (not necessarily a right of way) Ffordd modur gyda phont/motor road with bridge Gât/Gate Camfa/Stile Arwyddbost/Signpost Adeiladau pwysig/significant buildings Rheilffordd gyda gorsaf/railway line with station Nant neu afon yn dangos cyfeiriad y llif Stream or river with direction of flow Clawdd neu ffens/hedge or fence Eglwys/Church Mur/Wall Siambr gladdu/burial Chamber Coed/Trees gan/by Laurence Main b Safle bws/ Bus Stop Llanrwst. For more on our inspiring lakes see the new book, Cyfrinachau Llynnoedd Eryri by photographer Geraint Thomas, who set himself the challenge of photographing all of the 140 lakes in the Snowdonia National Park. Consult an expert. Outdoor writer Carl Rogers had a head start on most people he made his first Snowdonia ascent aged just six and has stood on Snowdon s summit over 100 times. He s passionate about the place, so much so that he has written many books including: Mountain and Hill Walking in Snowdonia and A Pocket Guide to Snowdonia s Best Mountain Walks (available from or from our Tourist Information Centres). Producing these guide books enabled me to spend almost two years of continuous walking and scrambling and has given me some of my most memorable mountain experiences, says Carl. Stay safe. Mountains are great to look at but they can be dangerous places. Stay safe by following this advice from the Snowdonia National Park: visiting/walking/safety-advice 3

6 Beach boys Bechgyn y traeth Want the lowdown on some of the best beaches in this part of Wales? Then ask the men who know. Bryn Pritchard Jones and Barry Davies work for Gwynedd s Maritime Department and Tony Hodge, Maritime Officer, Conwy County Borough Council. Here s some inside information from them. Abersoch What s the big picture? It s one of Gwynedd s busiest and best-loved resorts with a large sheltered bay ideal for sailing, powerboating and windsurfing. Young families like the spacious sands and shallow gradient. Powered craft can t use part of the beach, providing a relatively safe area for bathers. The beach s south-easterly aspect overlooks St Tudwal s Islands and the mountains of Snowdonia. In summer Abersoch plays host to prestigious international sailing events. What s the appeal? Abersoch attracts watersport enthusiasts and young families, with a buzzy town centre that combines good old-fashioned seaside emporia with boutiques and shops selling funky outdoor gear. The waters are relatively safe and warm, and there s an abundant wildlife. All amenities are close to the beach. The beach in a few words? Thriving, vibrant, diverse. Barmouth/Abermaw What s the big picture? One of our most scenic resorts, Barmouth/Abermaw is perched on the edge of the stunning Mawddach Estuary where mountains tumble into the sea. The huge, sandy beach and traditional, sheltered harbour are busy with bathers, families and watersports fans. Swap sand between your toes for walking boots and follow many country paths for amazing views of Snowdonia. What s the appeal? The sands are exceptionally generous with all the space you need for family beach games like volleyball, cricket and football. Crab fishing from the harbour wall is another favourite. All amenities car parks, shops, cafés, etc are close to the beach. For yet more sand catch the ferry and narrow-gauge railway across to Fairbourne. The beach in a few words? Stunning backdrop, family orientated, vast, traditional, convivial. Dinas Dinlle, near Caernarfon What s the big picture? Here s another big one. Dinas Dinlle s seemingly endless sands are popular yet uncrowded. The exposed west-facing beach is good for windsurfing and power kiting, while family facilities include cafés, gift shops and a children s play area. Families also appreciate the fact that the launching of craft with vehicles is prohibited, making the beach and waters relatively safe. Two fascinating sites sit at each end of the beach: an Iron Age hillfort and Airworld Aviation Museum based at Caernarfon Airport (pleasure flights also available). What s the appeal? It s family-orientated, popular with visitors and locals, with far-reaching views towards Anglesey and Llŷn s Yr Eifl mountains. The northerly section tends to be the quietest. Angling and canoeing are also popular, while walkers and cyclists can follow a network of paths and bridleways. The nearby Foryd Estuary is a haven for wildlife. The beach in a few words? Pristine, relaxing, peaceful, family friendly. Morfa Bychan (Black Rock Sands) What s the big picture? It s one of the few beaches in Britain where you can step out of the car directly onto the sand. There s a rocky headland at the western end of the 2½-mile beach, and a backdrop of sand dunes designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Relatively shallow coastal waters and a gently shelving gradient make it ideal for bathing. The beach also attracts kite surfers, land yachters, powerboaters and other leisure watercraft. Craft exclusion zones apply between April and September. What s the appeal? All that space and those spectacular views across Cardigan Bay. The beach is easily accessible and accommodates swimmers and powercraft users. The beach in a few words? Scenic, diverse, popular. 4 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

7 The Knowledge Flying the Blue Flag. Europe s highest beach accolade has been given to: Abersoch, Barmouth/Abermaw, Criccieth, Dinas Dinlle (near Caernarfon), Fairbourne and Pwllheli Marian-y-De. Two marinas also fly the Blue Flag Hafan Pwllheli and Victoria Dock, Caernarfon. Green Coast. These awards are aimed more at undeveloped beaches which still have the highest quality: Abererch/Glan Don (near Pwllheli), Bennar/ Llanenddwyn (near Talybont), Harlech, Machroes (near Abersoch) and Porth Neigwl/ Hell s Mouth (near Abersoch). Penmaenmawr What s the big picture? Victorian Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone s favourite North Wales resort has a long, sandy beach popular with sailing craft and some powercraft, but with a zoned powerboat exclusion area creating a safe swimming section. Spectacular views across to Anglesey, Puffin Island and Llandudno s Great Orme headland, with vibrant, second-to-none sunsets. Free parking on the easily accessed promenade. The town has recently benefited from a refurbishment project and is a regular holder of the Blue Flag Award. What s the appeal? The gently sloping beach is safe, sandy and child-friendly, and becoming more popular as visitors discover this hidden gem. Car parks, café, a play area and other facilities are all close by. The beach in a few words? Great for families, great views too. Contributor: Tony Hodge, Maritime Officer, Conwy County Borough Council Pwllheli South Beach (Marian-y-De) What s the big picture? The south-facing sandy beach, almost three miles long and backed by dunes, lies within a Special Area of Conservation. It s easily accessible via purpose-built walkways leading directly from the promenade. Swimming and fishing are popular, though many visitors are content simply to sit and gaze at the distant mountains of Snowdonia and, closer to home, the sailing boats entering and leaving Pwllheli s busy marina. What s the appeal? The town of Pwllheli is busy too, yet it s easy to escape to this comparatively quiet and peaceful beach. All amenities are close to the seafront and the dunes are a habitat for rare flora and fauna. Launching of craft is not possible from the beach so it s relatively safe for bathers, though the gradient of the beach is a little steep. The beach in a few words? Tranquil, magnificent views, haven for families. Tywyn What s the big picture? This west-facing sandy beach with a mixture of pebbles and sand on its upper section is good for families and watersports. There s a small paddling pool on the Victorian promenade and plenty of free car parking. In recent years major improvements have been made to the promenade and beach and there s a slipway at the southern end with adjoining trailer park. Smaller esplanades in the north and south give access to other parts of the beach. What s the appeal? The beach, which has breathtaking views of Cardigan Bay, attracts swimmers, paddlers, surfers and windsurfers. It s popular throughout the year: for sandy family fun in summer and bracing walks in winter. The beach in a few words? Extensive, family friendly, great views. Seaside Award. Given to well-managed beaches with excellent standards of cleanliness and water quality. Aberdovey/ Aberdyfi, Abersoch, Barmouth/Abermaw, Bennar, Criccieth Traeth y Marine, Criccieth Traeth y Promenad, Dinas Dinlle (near Caernarfon), Fairbourne, Harlech, Llandanwg, Llanfairfechan, Machroes, Penmaenmawr and Pwllheli Marian-y-De. Beauty and the beach. There are beautiful beaches all along our coast. Here s a brief run-down of some, from north to south: Llanfairfechan long, open stretch of sands at this small, family-friendly seaside resort Morfa Nefyn idyllic, perfectly formed crescent of sand Porth Oer, near Aberdaron perhaps better known as Whistling Sands. The granules really do squeak underfoot Aberdaron furthest point west and an ideal base for exploring the Llŷn Coastal Path Harlech make sandcastles on the big beach in the shadow of the real thing, medieval Harlech Castle Shell Island sand, dunes and, of course, shells (but you don t have to cross any water to get here) Aberdovey/Aberdyfi gorgeous beach in a gorgeous setting on the mouth of the Dyfi Estuary For more information on beaches go to: Slip sliding away. For information on slipways, boat launching and marinas contact the Maritime Unit on For harbours and maritime information in the Conwy area call Above: Barmouth / Dinas Dinlle / Penmaenmawr Opposite: Abersoch 5

8 Touchstones Hen feini There are ancient stones scattered across Snowdonia Mountains and Coast that speak volumes about the past. We re thinking of places like Tre r Ceiri, the Celtic village on the rock-strewn summit of Llŷn s Yr Eifl mountains. Or the weatherbeaten shell of Dolwyddelan Castle, a stronghold of the Princes of Gwynedd. Or the soaring defences of Caernarfon Castle, a statement of royal power. These sites and many more are charged with a strong sense of the past. It s what has helped shaped the character and spirit of Snowdonia. It s part of our DNA. But let s bring things bang up to date. Snowdonia is no museum piece. Its modern touchstone is a thriving culture and proud local identity that embraces all aspects of life and says as much about the Snowdonia of today as do those stones of yesterday. Big man, big mountain Opera star Bryn Terfel travels the world, but never forgets his roots. I think I ve been incredibly spoilt with the environment in which I spent my childhood, says Bryn. But he did have an admission to make when he filmed Snowdonia: Closer to Home for the BBC. Standing at the summit of Snowdon and looking across to the family farm and his old school in fact most of North Wales he remarked: This is truly inspiring. It is serenity, it is beauty but it makes me disappointed in myself that I have never been here before. From up here I can see so much of what is close to home. For more on people and places see The Knowledge opposite. Are you a vulture for culture? You ll hear it everywhere in Snowdonia. It s as much a part of the landscape as those hills and mountains. We re talking Welsh. Please don t think of it as a foreign tongue. At one time all of Britain spoke the Brythonic language from which Welsh derives (did you know that Dover come from the Welsh word, dŵr, for water?). There are many opportunities to learn more about the language at places like Nant Gwrtheyrn, for example, the Welsh Language and Heritage Centre and visitor attraction spectacularly located on the Llŷn Peninsula. This lyrical language of ours is music to the ears. For more Celtic melodies go to Tŷ Siamas, Dolgellau, the National Centre for Folk Music. And for the written word there s 6 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

9 Tŷ Newydd, the National Writers Centre for Wales, at Llanystumdwy. We ve seen it all before By which we mean that we have historic sites that start in the mists of time and end yesterday. Follow in the footsteps of Roman soldiers to Caernarfon where the remains of their Segontium fort are still visible, or early Christian missionaries on the Pilgrim s Route to Bardsey, the Isle of 20,000 Saints. Castles, of course, are something of a local speciality. Mighty Caernarfon, Harlech and Conwy three World Heritage Sites are links in the iron chain built by King Edward I in medieval times. If you want to visit one castle that has really been in the wars then make it Criccieth. This fortress, perched on a headland with sensational views across Cardigan Bay, changed hands between Welsh and English forces more often than a relay baton. There s a wealth of industrial heritage here too. Slate in Snowdonia was equivalent to coal in South Wales. For a revealing look into the industry visit Chwarel Hên Llanfair Slate Caverns (Llanbedr), Corris Mine, Inigo Jones Slateworks (Penygroes), Llechwedd Slate Caverns (Blaenau Ffestiniog) and the National Slate Museum (Llanberis) marks a special anniversary for the last two they will have been open to the public for 40 years. Prefer copper to slate? Then go underground at the Sygun Mine near Beddgelert. Above: Tŷ Siamas, Dolgellau / Bardsey Island from Llŷn Peninsula / Tre r Ceiri / St Beuno s Church, Clynnog Fawr / Urdd Eisteddfod Opposite: Caernarfon The Knowledgee People and places. Fiery politician Lloyd George e had a peaceful upbringing in the village of Llanystumdwy visit the museum there dedicated to the charismatic Welsh Wizard. The unique fantasy village of Portmeirion, where Italy meets North Wales, was the vision of one man architect Sir Clough Williams- Ellis. Go there and be amazed. Kate Roberts ( ) is one of Wales s most celebrated writers. Discover more about her life and work at the heritage centre in her childhood home, Cae r Gors, Rhosgadfan. Singer-songwriter Duffy was born in Bangor and raised in the little coastal village of Nefyn on the Llŷn Peninsula. She s a wordwide star. The Royal Horticultural Society has even named a very special variety of daffodil, the Duffydil, after her. People s Collection. Become part of a worldwide audience for Wales s heritage and culture by logging on to It s your passport to a nation s heritage, featuring collections, maps and trails, exhibitions, events and geneaology. Go there to discover and learn and contribute your own content. Cadw meaning to keep or to protect is the Welsh Government s historic environment service, responsible for the care of many historic sites such as Plas Mawr, Conwy, and major castles. The National Trust cares for mansions and historic houses large and small for example, Bangor s neo-baronial Penrhyn Castle, built by an immensely wealthy industrialist, and at the other extreme humble Tŷ Mawr Wybrnant, Penmachno, home of Bishop William Morgan, who first translated the Bible into Welsh. National Museums of Wales. Llanberis s National Slate Museum brings back to life an industry that once roofed the world. Eisteddfod time. In 2012 Glynllifon near Caernarfon hosts the Urdd Eisteddfod, Europe s largest youth arts festival. It s a colourful and vibrant festival featuring singing, dancing, acting, performing, poetry, art and design. come along 4 9 June

10 Look, it s local Drycha, mae n lleol You won t have to look far for farm- and sea-fresh produce in these parts. Or for local stores and shops selling arts and crafts, fashion and fabrics inspired by their Snowdonia surroundings. Our food is slow. And it hasn t travelled miles to get here. Believe us, you ll taste the difference. And we don t go in much for the big, impersonal shopping experience you can get almost anywhere nowadays. Our brand is local and individual and all the better for it Good Food Guide Snowdonia is again well represented in the latest edition of this foodie bible. Here s a taster. Blue Sky Café, Bangor. This amiable daytime café has a kitchen whose heart is in the right place. Local and seasonal ingredients crop up in everything from breakfasts to Welsh beef burgers served in artisan-baked rolls. Castell, Caernarfon. This revamped Georgian hotel is going places. Soups are a strength and mains might include Welsh lamb with fondant potatoes, redcurrant and port. Finish, perhaps, with bara brith butter pudding and Penderyn whisky ice cream. Cross Foxes, near Dolgellau. They ve done wonders at this old pub, now a sleek country bolthole. The Good Food Guide agrees: Recently rescued from dereliction, this Grade II-listed building is now a stylish all-rounder, offering brasserie-style food The menu takes in everything from tapas platters to well-hung steaks. Penmaenuchaf Hall, near Dolgellau. The kitchen tries hard and takes full account of the region s produce witness a trio of Bala lamb comprising herb-crusted best end, a shepherd s pie and a tagine with raisin couscous. Y Daflod at Tafarn y Fic, Llithfaen. Tafarn is a community pub. As you d expect, (it) is a hub for local activities but it s also a good spot for a meal, thanks to self-taught cook Hefina Prichard. Her food is direct, heart-onsleeve stuff. 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. Here are the latest winners. Food Producer of the Year: Richard and Iola Huws have established a successful vineyard and orchard in Dyffryn Nantlle, producing white, red, sparkling and rosé wine, plus cider and apple juice. The first bottle of red was launched during summer Local Product Eatery of the Year: Taro Deg, Pwllheli: Llinos Dobson s café serves breakfast, light lunches and delicious desserts, based on local produce and enjoyed in a stylish contemporary Welsh atmosphere. There s also a gallery space and meeting room. Craft Worker/Artist of the Year: Anne Smith Glass Designs, Rhiw. Anne works with glass (fused, stained and lampworked) to create unique, tactile pieces for many purposes and architectural spaces. High Percentage Content of Local Produce: Tafarn y Plu (The Feathers Inn), Llanystumdwy. Innkepers Cath and Ian Parri believe in being part of the community and local culture. Cath plans the menus with chef Gareth Williams from Nebo, sourcing as much produce as possible locally. Cath and Ian make their own jams, chutneys and mustard, and work with Llithfaen pork producers Oinc Oink to produce faggots, pâté and other delicacies. The bar sells a wide selection of Welsh ales, cider, wine and spirits. Group of the Year: Cwrw Llŷn. A co-operative of 12 enthusiasts on the Llŷn 8 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

11 Peninsula started brewing beer commercially in 2011 to supply local pubs and hotels and has quickly spread to other outlets in North Wales. Cwrw Llŷn produces beer with a local flavour and with local names too, like its traditional bitter Brenin Enlli, named after Bardsey Island s last-known king. Foreign Market of the Year: Welsh Lady Preserves, Pwllheli. The Jones family have been making sweet preserves and savoury condiments in an honest, traditional way for 45 years. Their jams, marmalade, jellies, fruit curds, chutneys, sauces and mustards have legions of fans in the UK and worldwide, including the USA, Canada, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, Sweden and Australia. Shop around Shopping hot spots. These include Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Bangor and Betws y Coed. Caernarfon s historic town centre and contemporary Doc Fictoria waterfront combine to offer a healthy mix of shops (Celtica s big choice of art, crafts and fashion is outstanding). Bangor also serves up stylish contemporary shopping at the Menai Centre. Betws s many speciality shops are open for business throughout the year, Sundays included. You won t find a better choice of outdoor gear and crafts. Crafty venues. Art and craft are thick on the ground. They include mills at Bryncir (near Porthmadog), Trefriw and Dinas Mawddwy. For choice and convenience go to the Corris Craft Centre it s an entire village made up of individual craft workshops. Creativity is in our DNA. Snowdonia s scenery has always inspired creative activity. Legions of artists and sculptors, metalworkers and potters display their work in galleries large and small. Plas Glyn-y-Weddw, Llanbedrog, and the Royal Cambrian Academy, Conwy, are two of Wales s leading art galleries. There are lots of individual spaces too like the craft workshops at Parc Glynllifon, Caernarfon. Bodnant Welsh Food This exciting new food centre at Furnace Farm on the Bodnant Estate in the Conwy Valley is due to open in spring It s a farm shop, tea room, restaurant and cookery school all rolled into one. Above: Taro Deg, Pwllheli / Pant Du Vineyard, Dyffryn Nantlle / Anne Smith Glass Designs, Rhiw / Welsh Lady Preserves, Pwllheli Opposite: Edwards of Conwy The Knowledge The True Taste/Gwir Flas True Taste embraces everything from local shopping to fine dining. It s all about quality and natural taste real food that tastes how it was meant to, food that isn t fast and deserves to be savoured. We are delighted to report that local lad Conrad Davies is the True Taste Champion for His Eurospar stores in Dolgellau and Blaenau Ffestiniog and Spar in Pwllheli demonstrate why he is passionate about Welsh food and drink. Market forces. Shop locally. Meet the people. Buy fresh from the field. Check out the provenance. It s all on a plate at our many market days, farmers markets, farm shops food festivals and fairs. For more on real food from real people contact our Tourist Information Centres (see back page) or go to Local produce markets Porthmadog: Last Saturday of every month (9.30am 2pm). Y Ganolfan, Harbour, Porthmadog LL49 9LU. MarchnadPorthmadogMarket Ogwen: Second Saturday of every month (10am 2pm) Llys Dafydd, Bethesda LL57 3PR and Jerusalem Chapel, Bethesda (November March). pages/marchnad-cynnyrch-lleol-ogwen- Local-Produce-Market/ Market days Blaenau Ffestiniog: Tuesday Barmouth: Thursday and Sunday (summer only) Caernarfon: Saturday (all year) and Monday (May September) Llanrwst: Tuesday Porthmadog: Friday Pwllheli: Wednesday Tywyn: Monday (summer only) For further details go to: Arts and crafts, galleries and workshops. (an art trail of studios and workshops) 9

12 Welcome to the Wales Coast Path Croeso i Lwybr Arfordir Cymru By May 2012 Wales will be the only country in Britain to have a continuous coast path. That s the planned completion date of the Wales Coast Path, a Welsh Government initiative to discover the shape of the nation. It s already a big success. For 2012 the Lonely Planet guide has chosen beautiful and wild coastal Wales as the greatest region on Earth. Around 200 of Wales s 870 miles fringe our mountains, from Conwy in the north to the Dyfi Estuary in the south. We don t expect you to walk it all in one go (though no doubt some macho-type will soon set a record). But to point you in the right direction here are just a few of its many highlights (from north to south). Strait ahead Enjoy some big views across the Menai Strait to Anglesey from the new path along Traeth Lafan (Lavan Sands) east of Bangor. There s also another attractive new section along the Strait at Treborth west of Bangor. Along Llŷn Anywhere along the Llŷn Peninsula, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, will leave you wanting more. There s new access to Nant Gwrtheyrn Welsh Language and Heritage Centre, tucked away amongst cliffs on the north coast. Further along, the path from Nefyn to Aberdaron is one if the most sensational in Wales and the UK. On south Llŷn, walk beside the charming, candy-coloured beach huts at Llanbedrog then up to the headland crowned by the enigmatic figure of the Tin Man. Shells, sands and dunes Go shell spotting (with over 200 varieties you re spoilt for choice) at Shell Island, a prospect made even more enticing by the improved paths and new bridge over the River Artro at Llandanwg. The island is, in reality, a sandy peninsula backed by dunes so you don t need a boat to get to its four beautiful beaches. The magnificent Mawddach The Mawddach Estuary is almost too lovely for words. So we ll leave it to you to swoon over the scenery when you cross one of the Wales Coast Path s most unusual features the railway bridge-cum-footpath that spans the mouth of the estuary at Barmouth/Abermaw. Above: Dwyryd Estuary Left: Nefyn / Shell Island 10 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

13 Wales Coast Path Discover the shape of a nation Wales s newest attraction will be open in Spring 2012 Fancy an 870 mile stroll? The Wales Coast Path is your answer, stretching continuously from near Chester in the north to Chepstow in the south. CAERNARFON ABERDARON HOLYHEAD NEFYN ABERSOCH BARMOUTH BANGOR LLANDUDNO PORTHMADOG HARLECH RHYL FLINT CHESTER The Path is for everyone and gives you a chance to explore any part of coastal Wales, to meet the locals and enjoy the fresh air and scenery. Consider this your invitation to step out and enjoy our new national endeavour, even if you don t walk the whole thing! ABERDOVEY ABERYSTWYTH ABERAERON CARDIGAN FISHGUARD ST DAVID S CARMARTHEN PEMBROKE TENBY LLANELLI Work to create the Wales Coast Path is co-ordinated by the Countryside Council for Wales and delivered on the ground by local authorities. It is funded by the Welsh Government, the European Regional Development Fund and the coastal local authorities. SWANSEA PORTHCAWL CHEPSTOW NEWPORT CARDIFF BARRY ISLAND For further information: Photographs Crown copyright (2011) Visit Wales

14 Betws y Coed The activity alphabet Y wyddor gweithgareddau Snowdonia Mountains and Coast phew, it s exhausting. But boy, is it exciting. So you want to go abseiling? No problem, just pick your cliff. What about biking? Yes, we have world-class mountain biking, and traffic-free, waymarked road routes too. Canoeing, coasteering, climbing, canyoning, can-do activity centres that s the activity alphabet from A to C taken care of, then. Top: Ogwen Valley Above: Jon Sparks We could go on, and on all the way to Z (zip-wire riding through the trees, if you haven t guessed). After all, we re the activity capital of the UK. On these and the next few pages we introduce you to our exhilarating activities scene on land and water. Sparks over Snowdonia To set the scene, we ve asked well-known outdoor writer Jon Sparks to sample a few of our many activities. Read his action-packed report on the next page, then take a look at pages for the full picture. 12 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

15 Snowdonia is the most complete outdoor destination in the UK. It s ripe with opportunities for a vast range of pursuits at every level, from beginner to expert. And if you re short of some vital kit, there s an abundance of specialist gear shops and hire centres, whether you need an ice-axe or a surfboard. Feet first The Snowdon Sherpa bus service has brought me effortlessly from breakfast in Llanberis, via Pen-y-Pass and Beddgelert, to Rhyd Ddu. It s thanks to the buses that I can tackle Snowdon in the best possible way: up one side and down the other. Walkers can choose from six main routes up Snowdon. And, rather wonderfully, all of them are accessible by Sherpa bus. By my calculation, this makes for 60 different possible combinations of ascent and descent. That should keep me going for a bit... Bike it Royal gold comes from the forests around Dolgellau. This woody part of Wales is also the source of pure offroad gold. It s where mountain biking in forests took off, reckons Jon Sparks. Say Coed y Brenin Forest Park to any British mountain biker (and many from further afield), and they ll nod knowingly. More than likely their eyes will light up too, White water, white knuckles The scenery goes by, but there s no chance to take notice, says a breathless Jon. A group of us are on the River Tryweryn, on a bright yellow inflatable raft. There are three possible runs. The Upper Tryweryn is used for regular runs and taster sessions. An enticing alternative is the Tryweryn Safari, a four-mile trip down the Lower Tryweryn. If this isn t enough of a challenge there s also the Tryweryn Special, which combines the upper and lower rivers in one mammoth run. None of these sessions demands any previous experience, just a willingness to have a go and an acceptance that you can expect to get very wet. because the forest is a mountain biking mecca. This is where the phenomenon of the trail centre really began, pioneered in the 1990s by Forest Ranger Dafydd Davis. By building dedicated bike trails he not only increased the fun factor for bikers but averted possible conflicts with walkers. The formula succeeded probably beyond his or anyone else s wildest dreams, and has been widely imitated across the UK and far beyond. Surf s up but I m down again, Jon exclaims. An experienced surfer can probably pick the wave by sound alone, but we have our instructor to tell us when to go. It sounds simple and probably is, and I can see the appeal. There s just me, a wetsuit, a board, and the waves. Today, in a wetsuit, I m perfectly comfortable, even a little warm at times. I ve had a lot of fun, in the elements, in a beautiful spot known enigmatically as Hell s Mouth. It s really the opposite of hellish: a gently curving beach a full four miles long, cupped between rocky headlands near the tip of the Llŷn Peninsula. It s the prime reason why nearby Abersoch is the surfing capital of North Wales. We ve got it covered See a copy of our new free guide Snowdonia, the Active Destination. Jon Sparks was the guest editor, so you can read more about his adventures plus full information on all of the activities in Snowdonia. It s available by post or as an e-brochure: More activities overleaf >

16 Let s go Dewch i ni fynd Walking, mountain biking, cycling, horse riding, adventure activities Paths and peaks. Are you as tough as old boots? Or more of a once-around-themulberry-bush kind of walker? Our footpaths come in all shapes and sizes, rough and smooth, long and short, easy and exhausting. We have gentle lakeside and forest strolls for families, trails to the peaks of Snowdon and Cader Idris (to name but two of our many summits), and serious challenges for steely outdoor enthusiasts. And it s not all mountains there s also fabulously sandy, salty coastal walking that s about to get even better with the opening of the Wales Coast Path (see pages 10 11). Pedals and saddles We have mountains to climb by bike too. Our forests including Coed y Brenin Forest Park, Penmachno, Gwydir, Beddgelert and Dyfi are full of exciting man-made singletracks. And for purists there s more offroad gold on the grassy tracks, rocky trails and ancient paths that lattice our natural landscapes. Coed y Brenin Forest Park is one frantic forest. In addition to mountain biking there s fabulous walking for all abilities (including disabled), orienteering, an adventure playground, high-ropes course and Visitor Centre where everyone comes to relax with a venison burger, slice of cake or fresh-ground Americano. For road cyclists we have countless miles of dedicated cyclepaths, a mix of quiet lanes, traffic-calmed roads and scenic routes. Our hills are as testing as a Tour de France col, but if you re not an aspiring Geraint Thomas (the Welsh cycling wunderkind) don t worry. We have plenty of gentle, family-friendly lake- and riverside routes too. Dolgellau and the Llŷn Peninsula are two dedicated Cycle Breaks Centres with a choice of specially created routes. Horse riders and pony trekkers also have an inspiring choice of bridlepaths and routes that take them along wooded vales and up, up and away into our glorious high country. 14 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

17 One big adventure Snowdonia is the adventure destination. Nowhere else within the British Isles do you find such a high concentration of the best outdoor activities, set against truly breathtaking backdrops. Whether you are an expert climber, walker, mountain biker or canoeist or just starting out on the route to adventure, the mountains, lakes, rivers, sea cliffs, sandy beaches and forests are waiting to take you on a journey through a landscape that resonates with history, intrigue and adventure. Chris Wright from the leading multiactivity holiday company Snowdonia Active High and low Release your inner Tarzan at activity centres that take you high up into the trees. Head for the heights at Tree Top Adventure, Betws y Coed, Ropes and Ladders in Llanberis, Ropeworks at Pwllheli and the Glan-llyn Urdd Centre and Get Wet Adventure Company, both near Bala. It s also all go (more high ropes adventure and zip-wire riding) at Go Ape! in Coed y Brenin Forest Park. Go below with Underground Adventures, the company that kits you up and guides you into the hidden world of an abandoned slate mine near Betws y Coed. There s a similar experience in southern Snowdonia with Corris Mine Explorers. At Snowdonia Mountains and Coast we are extremely proud of the huge choice and quality of activities that we have to offer. The diverse and different activities ensure there is something for everyone. quad biking hovercraft shooting archery paintball Geocaching Karting Skiing Rib Ride We ve got it covered Get a copy of our new free guide Snowdonia, the Active Destination, guest edited by Jon Sparks (see pages 12 13). It s packed with information on all activities, including quad biking, archery, karting, paintballing and hovercraft flying. Available by post or as an e-brochure: Facebook favourites Best walking the Glyderau. It s like a lunar landscape. Simon Kitchen Conwy Mountain this has to be one of the best short walks in the country, with wonderful mountain and coastal views. Easily done from the town, and with the added bonus of the wild ponies. Castleview Holiday Cottage Favourite walk: from Dolgellau to Barmouth along the old railway line. Favourite castle: Castell-y-Bere, hidden away in the hills (ssshhhh, it s a secret!). Julie-Anne Mackett Above: Snowdonia Riding Stables, Waunfawr Aran Mountains / Glyder Fach Opposite: Coed y Brenin Forest Park / Walk the new Wales Coast Path near Porthmadog / Ogwen Valley, Bethesda More activities, plus additional details on the activities featured here, on the > following pages

18 Let s go Dewch i ni fynd Sailing, surfing, canoeing, fishing, birdwatching, geocaching, golfing On the water. Around 200 miles of coastline. Big beaches. Tiny coves. Slipways, harbours and marinas. Outstandingly beautiful estuaries. Open seas. Sheltered waters. Lakes and rivers. We have locations and facilities that make all kinds of watersports enthusiasts very happy indeed, from hardcore surfers and sailors with saltwater in their veins to those who want a pleasant paddle on the lake. Waterworlds The adrenaline rush is guaranteed when you go surfing or white-water rafting. Not to mention bodyboarding, windsurfing, water ski-ing and wakeboarding (a local speciality in Abersoch). Sailing is superb all along the coast, from the sheltered waters of the Menai Strait to the open seas of Cardigan Bay. There are charming little sailing centres like Aberdovey/ Aberdyfi, attractive harbours at places like Barmouth/Abermaw, Porthmadog, Caernarfon and Y Felinheli, and a world-class marina at Pwllheli. Want to learn to sail or brush up on your watersports skills? The Plas Menai National Watersports Centre near Caernarfon runs a huge variety of courses and activity holidays from a just-about-perfect location on the Menai Strait, whose waters are ideal for sailing, windsurfing, canoeing and powerboating and have easy access to the open sea. Go boating in Bala. Bala s Llyn Tegid is the largest natural lake in Wales. Its watersports potential is pretty big too, with local companies offering sailing, canoeing and windsurfing. 16 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

19 The Knowledge See our website for lots of walking ideas. Plus: Snowdonia National Park. Gone fishing. Where to go, that is the question? Along the coast there s nigh on 200 miles of it for fabulous sea fishing from sand and shingle beaches, estuaries and rocky shorelines. Fish from big beaches like Dinas Dinlle. Or go deep and charter a boat from places like Conwy, the Menai Strait, Abersoch, Pwllheli, Barmouth/Abermaw and Aberdovey/ Aberdyfi. No one is quite sure of the number of lakes we have it s certainly over 100. Then there are our many mountain torrents and lazy lowland rivers. So it s easy to understand why game fishermen like it here too. And there s also great coarse fishing, at locations like Trawsfynydd Lake. Birdwatching. Lapwings, shellducks and black-tailed godwits are some of the residents at Conwy Nature Reserve, a wild oasis on the edge of Snowdonia. Also out on a limb quite literally is Bardsey Island (Ynys Enlli in Welsh) off the tip of the Llŷn Peninsula. Bardsey is a National Nature Reserve on the strength of its amazing birdlife. Go there not just for the scenery but for the teeming populations of Manx shearwaters (a staggering 16,000 pairs), oystercatchers, razorbills and kittiwakes. But the bird that all true twitchers really want to spot is the rare osprey. One of the few places in Britain is the RSPB s Glaslyn Osprey Project near Porthmadog, where you may catch sight of them in the skies or by nest-cam. These migrants have been returning here from Africa for years so keep your fingers crossed for Geocaching, The latest way to get to know our Great Outdoors, it s a kind of old-fashioned treasure hunt using GPS technology and it s catching on big time. The aim is to find hidden high-tech treasure known as geocaches and, in our case, explore some fantastic mountain, forest and coastal scenery at the same time. Golf as it should be. 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 Aberdovey/ Aberdyfi, and iconic Nefyn, perched on cliffs along the Llŷn Peninsula. The last two along with Porthmadog, Pwllheli and Bangor St Deiniol Golf Club are part of the James Braid North Wales Golf Trail. With characteristics such as hilly terrain, rocky outcrops, gorse, elevated greens and a long par 4, out of reach to most golfers, it s the perfect recipe to test your game. We ve got it covered See a copy of our new free guide Snowdonia, the Active Destination for full information on all activities. It s available by post or as an e-brochure: Above: Padarn Country Park, Llanberis / Glaslyn Osprey Project, near Porthmadog Opposite: Aberdyfi / Wakeboarding at Glasfryn Parc, near Pwllheli And go to our YouTube Channel ( to view our walking videos. A great way to see the top of Snowdon without having to climb up! Great video! Breaking news for bikers. We don t need to tell mountain bikers that Coed y Brenin Forest Park is a forest-and-a-half when it comes to offroad trails and facilities. Make that a forest-and-three-quarters, for it s just got even better, thanks to recent developments as a Centre of Excellence. Blaenau Ffestiniog is also destined for great things see the news about its new downhill mountain biking route, lakeside cycling trail and Visitor Centre on page 26. Plas y Brenin National Mountain Centre, Capel Curig. It s the most complete outdoor destination in the UK reckons Jon Sparks, guest editor of our activities guide. He goes on to say: The centre offers a wide range of courses varying from walking to rock climbing, mountain biking to navigation and mountain rescue. Instructors, students, novices and experts are all part of one community, united in a passion for the outdoors. Go now. Here are some more useful activities websites: Multi-activities: Mountain biking: Cycling: Horse riding and trekking: Canoeing: Wales Watersports: Fishing: Birdwatching: Geocaching: Golf: Adventure thrills a one-stop shop:

20 It s great outdoors (and indoors too) Mae n wych yn yr awyr agored (a dan do hefyd) Yes, our scenery is terrific. But so too are our many family-friendly attractions and places to visit. Here s a run-down of some of the best make sure you write them on your to do list. 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 Snowdonia 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. Holiday to do list Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways Talyllyn Railway Glasfryn Parc Electric Mountain Sygun Copper Mine Tree Top Adventure Snowdonia Riding Stables GreenWood Forest Park Electric Mountain, Llanberis In a nutshell. This is a bit of an indoorsy attraction, but you won t want to miss it. Elidir Mountain above the lake is hollow, hiding the largest pumped-storage hydro-electric power station in Europe. Take an underground tour of this awesome space. National White Water Centre Trefriw Woollen Mills Ray Hind Mountain Guide and Canoe Coach Coed y Brenin Forest Park King Arthur s Labyrinth Ribride Adventure Boat Trips 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. Talyllyn Railway, Tywyn 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 southern Snowdonia. 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. Railway Museum at Talyllyn. 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 you can get up to. 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 also an award-winning farm shop. Sygun Copper Mine, near Beddlgelert In a nutshell. Another 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 industrial heritage exists surrounded by so much natural beauty. Why go? Take a self-guided tour of the old workings on foot. See stalactites and stalagmites as well as copper ore veins containing traces of silver and gold. Tree Top Adventure, Betws y Coed In a nutshell. It s a high-ropes adventure course that gives you a big buzz without the fear of falling (a full body harness, helmet and revolutionary safety system look after you). Negotiate over 30 obstacles, including balancing beams, rope bridges and zip wires. And are you up for the challenge of the world s highest powerfan parachute plummet? Why go? Suitable for almost everyone, from families to gung-ho groups. There s even a Tree Tot Trail for younger children Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

21 Snowdonia Riding Stables, Waunfawr, near Caernarfon 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. Please pre-book. Ray Hind Mountain Guide and Canoe Coach, Bala In a nutshell. Ray has done it all, on land and water guided walking, navigation training, scrambling, geocaching, biking, kayaking, canoeing and white water rafting. This qualified Mountain Leader, British Canoe Union Coach and former international slalom competitor is also a safe pair of hands. Why go? No hassle. Activities are tailor made for you and through the website it s easy to organise your accommodation too. GreenWood Forest Park, 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, 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. Coed y Brenin Forest Park, near Dolgellau In a nutshell. Coed y Brenin Forest Park is the ultimate all-action forest. The walkers came first. Then and this is what really put the forest on the map the mountain bikers arrived. It s now a fully fledged activity centre, with an attractive, modern visitor centre, café, bike shop, children s play areas, high ropes adventure, geocaching, facilities for visitors with disabilities and miles and miles of walking and biking trails for everyone from families to muddy MB enthusiasts. Why go? If you re into the outdoors you d be daft not to. National White Water Centre, near Bala In a nutshell. Welcome to the UK s first commercial white water rafting centre. It s also the largest. The aquatic action takes place on the Tryweryn, a dam-released river, so the water is always white and very wet whatever time of year you come. Why go? To ride the steep chutes and boulder-strewn rapids of the Tryweryn, that s why. Or to try tandem kayaking. Or to get equally wet and wild on a canyoning trip. Trefriw Woollen Mills In a nutshell. Wales s original rural industry lives on at Trefriw. The mills manufacture traditional Welsh bedspreads/blankets, tweeds and travelling rugs.the tapestry cloth is made into cushions, dinner sets, shoulder bags and purses, while the tweed is tailored into hats, caps, jackets, capes, skirts and Celtic cowls. Why go? It s not just a shopping experience. Visitors can see the time-honoured and unbelievably complex processes of manufacture at the mills, which are still powered by water (nowadays hydro-electric turbines). Please check times. King Arthur s Labyrinth, Corris 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 on the spooky paths of the Bards Quest, and shopping at the Corris Craft Centre. And you can go underground for the second time with Corris Mine Explorers. Ribride Adventure Boat Trips, Caernarfon In a nutshell. You ll ride a state-ofthe-art RIB along the Menai Strait and across to Anglesey. The boats are quiet but powerful expect to hit speeds of 50mph, but in comfort. Why go? For at least two reasons the adrenaline rush (guaranteed to put a smile on your face) and the North Wales coast s stunning scenery (guaranteed to impress). You decide. More attractions and places to visit overleaf >

22 It s great outdoors (and indoors too) We ve given you a glimpse of our top attractions on the previous pages. Here are some more. Kids stuff Caernarfon s Fun Centre was built for kids with too much energy it s North Wales s biggest indoor adventure play area, packed to the rafters with ropes and ladders, slides and ball pools. Near Harlech there s the Children s Farm Park and Play Barn at Llanfair. You can also meet the animals at Gypsy Wood, Bontnewydd, near Caernarfon, a charming family attraction that also includes a miniature railway and a themed walk with a touch of fantasy. The green way to go First port of call has to be the Centre for Alternative Technology in the woods near Corris. This pioneering village of the future, Europe s leading eco-centre, is all about sustainable, green living. It s inspiring, entertaining and thought-provoking it may even change your life. Nature has the upper hand in many parts of Snowdonia. Our National Park, National Nature Reserves and Heritage Coastlines are rich in natural beauty and wildlife. Go to places like Cwm Idwal, an elemental landscape scoured by ice but containing the most delicate and rare arctic-alpine plants. Or the Gwaith Powdwr Nature Reserve on the Dwyryd Estuary at the gateway to the ancient moss-clad hanging oak woodlands of the Vale of Ffestiniog. Our gardens are gorgeous. Green is just one of the rich palette of colours at Bodnant Garden, the National Trust jewel in the Conwy Valley that s a delicious blend of formal and wild areas. An arty take on architecture was the driving force at Portmeirion, the unique Italianate village created by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. The village might steal all the visual thunder, but did you know that it also has the most amazing gardens, a combination of South 20 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

23 Do-it-yourself days out Take a look at our website for itinerary ideas, covering everything from family fun days out to hidden treasures. Then tell us how you got on: The Attractions of Snowdonia Plan great days out at castles, gardens, activity parks, museums, little railways and family attractions. If you still can t find what you re looking for and need fresh ideas post a question on Facebook and Twitter Mae n wych yn yr awyr agored (a dan do hefyd) Seas romance and Rain Forest fecundity? Sir Clough also poured his unstoppable imagination into nearby Plas Brondanwg s gardens. Green Flags, the highest accolade for parks and open spaces, fly over our Country Parks at Glynllifon (near Caernarfon) and Padarn (Llanberis). Parc Glynllifon is a Grade I-listed garden with 70 acres of exotic trees and plants, old follies and giant redwoods (plus, as a bonus, art and crafts). Padarn Country Park s 800-acre lakeside nature reserve has two Sites of Special Scientific Interest and, as you d expect, some of the loveliest scenery in North Wales. On the rails You ll be surprised where those rails take you in this part of the world (we ve already mentioned some on the previous pages). One railway even steams its way to the top of Snowdon. The Himalayan-style rack-andpinion Snowdon Mountain Railway from Llanberis is without doubt one of the most spectacular railway journeys, says The Good Britain Guide. And when you get to the top there are not just the views to admire. You can also visit the stunning new Hafod Eryri Visitor Centre, designed to blend into its unique summit setting. Llanberis is double-fortunate. It s also home to the Llanberis Lake Railway, which runs on a scenic route through the Padarn Country Park. And in Porthmadog you re truly spoilt for steamy choice. As well as the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland lines (see previous pages) there s the delightful little Welsh Highland Heritage Railway which comes with an outstanding range of railway memorabilia and exhibits. Porthmadog is also a handy place for hopping on to the Cambrian Coast mainline railway that runs along Cardigan Bay s beaches, estuaries and headlands all the way from Aberystwyth to Pwllheli. Back in narrow-gauge land, the Bala Lake Railway is another gem, travelling sedately beside Llyn Tegid for over four miles. And deep in the Dyfi Forest at Corris enthusiasts have breathed new life into a little line originally built to serve the local quarries. The smallest of the lot in terms of gauge is the Fairbourne Railway, running across the dunes at the mouth of the Mawddach Estuary. Sports and leisure centres We have 13, so you ll never be far from one. Most have indoor pools. Facebook favourites Ah, WHERE to begin Harlech beach/castle, Barmouth, Panorama Walk, Beddgelert, Betws y Coed, the beautiful Aberglaslyn Pass, Dolbadarn Castle, Capel Curig, Criccieth Castle/beach/village, Porthmadog and The Cob (even better now the bypass is open, I bet), oh and the Sound of Music field above Gellilyden village, Conwy Castle how s about ALL of Snowdonia? Caroline M Quigg Gwaith Powdwr Nature Reserve, Penrhyndeudraeth. Amazing place! Panoramic views from the top (all the way) from Harlech Castle to Criccieth Castle (on a clear day!). Eluned Davies Above: Padarn Country Park, Llanberis / Aberglaslyn Pass / Dwyfor Leisure Centre, Pwllheli Opposite: Cwm Idwal / Bodnant Garden

24 Activities, attractions and places to visit Snowdonia Mountains and Coast is packed with attractions, places to visit and activity operators. Here s a selection to get you going. For more information please contact our Tourist Information Centres or go to To avoid disappointment please check all opening times direct with the attraction or activity provider before travelling. 4E SYGUN COPPER MINE Our Self-guided audio-visual tours allow you to explore the old workings of a Victorian Copper Mine. Discover the large colourful chambers and see the magnificent stalactite and stalagmite formations. Above ground activities: Museum of Antiquities, Gold Panning, Pottery Painting, Metal Detecting, Adventure Playground and Lake Side Walks. Open 1st March November, 27th Dec 2nd Jan & Feb Half Term Beddgelert, Gwynedd, LL55 4NE. Tel: % discount on admission with this voucher Snowdonia Riding Stables 3D Waunfawr, Caernarfon LL55 4PQ T: snowdonia.riding@btconnect.com Mrs Renee Z Thomas Super riding in magnificent mountain scenery between Snowdon and the Irish sea. Graded rides with assessments to ensure suitable choice of horses, to suit complete beginners and competent riders. British Horse Society and Pony Club approved. Enjoyment Safety Professional. Months open: 1 12; Days open: Mon Sun; Hours open: 10am 5pm } k ] ß ß Electric Mountain Visitor Centre Llanberis, Gwynedd LL55 4UR T: info@electricmountain.co.uk Set against a magnificent backdrop of mountains and scenery of Snowdonia, Electric Mountain is the gateway to your journey underground. Marvel at the sheer size of the massive inlet valve chambers and see close up the world's fastest response turbine generators. For a truly electrifying day out, visit Electric Mountain. 3D 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; Jun Aug & main school holidays 9.30am 5.30pm. Charges for tour only. } k G ß Z * ß _ 22 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

25 Gweithgareddau, atyniadau a lleoedd i ymweld â nhw

26 Activities, attractions and places to visit Tree Top Adventure Ltd 3F Tree Top Lodge, Llanrwst Road, Betws-y-Coed, Conwy LL24 0HA T: F: Sean Taylor Welcome to a multi award-winning activity provider situated on the outskirts of Betws-y- Coed, Snowdonia. Tree Top Adventure is home to the UK s premier high ropes course and powerfan plummet, the world s highest powerfan parachute simulator. Further information about other activities is available at Months open:1 12; Days open: Mon Sun; Hours open: 9am 6pm } C C Z k ] ß Z * ß Trefriw Woollen Mills 3F Main Road, Trefriw, Conwy Valley LL27 0NQ T: info@t-w-m.co.uk 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 10 am 5 pm; Admission: Free (regret no school parties) k } ß Z * ß Amgueddfa Syr Henry Jones Museum 3G Y Cwm, Llangernyw, Abergele LL22 8PR T: syrhenryjones@hotmail.com Dewch i r amgueddfa hynod hon sy n ymwneud â bywyd cefn gwlad Cymru a dysgwch am Henry Jones a hanes ei frwydr am addysg. Visit this fascinating Museum of Welsh rural life and find out about Henry Jones and the story of his struggle for education. Months open:5 9; Days open: Tue Fri and Bank Holidays, hours open: 10:30am 1pm and 2pm 5pm; Sat Sun, hours open: 2pm 5pm; Prices: Adult 2, Children 1 } Z * ß (by appointment) 24 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

27 Gweithgareddau, atyniadau a lleoedd i ymweld â nhw Canolfannau hamdden GWYNEDD Leisure centres

28 Activities, attractions and places to visit Staying in Mid Wales? STAY SEE DO SAVE Centres of Excellence This new Welsh Government initiative to create world-class facilities for outdoor and adventure activities is having a big impact in Snowdonia. Over 4 million has been earmarked for projects which will add an exciting new dimension to North-West Wales s Great Outdoors. Blaenau Ffestiniog Blaenau Ffestiniog. A specialist downhill mountain biking trail and small Visitor Centre opens at the old Llechwedd quarry workings in April/May 2012, together with new cycling loops around Tanygrisiau Lake. Coed y Brenin Forest Park. The mountain biking mecca is getting even better. The first section of the new Minor Taur trail for young children and riders with disabilities is already open with more trail building to follow. By October 2012 the Visitor and Activity Centre will have a larger bike shop and conference facilities. Coed y Brenin Forest Park Glan-llyn Trawsfynydd Lake Glan-llyn, near Bala. Additional facilities at the Urdd (Welsh League of Youth) Glan-llyn base include a cycle link to village of Llanuwchllyn and improved accommodation (by September/October 2012). Trawsfynydd Lake. New building and jetty for users of the lake, including anglers, kayakers, cyclists, walkers and birdwatchers, will be complete by late Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

29 Gweithgareddau, atyniadau a lleoedd i ymweld â nhw

30 Events Digwyddiadau 2012 March 9 18 Bangor Science Festival, Mawddach Gold Rush Challenge, Coed y Brenin Forest Park, Conwy Seed Fair April 1 Pwllheli Triathlon RYA UK Youth championships 21 Drum House FFest & Ras y Moelwyn Mountain Race, Blaenau Ffestiniog For 2012, this innovative festival merges with the Ras y Moelwyn Mountain Race to feature a mix of the area s musical diversity with extreme sports such as downhill mountain biking Welsh Youth & Junior Championships May 7 Sioe Nefyn, Rowen Village Gardens Open Day 20 Snowdonia Slateman Triathlon / Llanc y Llechi, Llanberis Following the incredible success of the first ever Snowdonia Slateman in 2011, the event is back by popular demand in 2012 and will be even bigger and better. Two race options will be the Full Slateman (1000m/51km/11km) or Slateman Sprint (400m/20km/6km) Ffair Criccieth Mawddach Paddlesports Festival 27 Bangor 10k June Finn World Masters London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay Visiting various communities in Gwynedd. Evening celebration held in Bangor on 28th. June 1 3 Kaya Festival, Bangor 2 Abersoch 10k Eisteddfod Genedlaethol yr Urdd 2012, Glynllifon, near Caernarfon Three Castles Welsh Classic Trial 7 Children s Duncan Days 10 Bala Middle Distance Triathlon 2000m swim, 78.5k cycle, 20k run. The event, set in lakeside Bala, has plenty of space for transition. The swim is in Llyn Tegid, Wales s largest natural lake (wet suits compulsory). The bike section is a challenging out-andback course, while the undulating run follows the road around the lake Snowdon Fiddle Festival Three Peaks Yacht Race, Barmouth Gŵyl Criccieth Festival 17 Etape Eryri / The Snowdonia Sportive, Llanberis 29 Ffair Criccieth Fair July Gŵyl Arall, Caernarfon 1 Cauldrons & Furnaces, Caernarfon & Harlech Conwy Walking Week North Wales Bluegrass Festival, Conwy April, Drum House FFest and Ras y Moelwyn Mountain Race, Blaenau Ffestiniog 20 May, Snowdonia Slateman Triathlon/Llanc y Lechen, Llanberis 10 June, Bala Middle Distance Triathlon 28 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

31 For more details and an updated events list visit our website or contact our local Tourist Information Centres (see back cover). Please note: This list was compiled during November 2011 and details may have changed so please check the dates and times if you plan to attend an event. 6 8 Wakestock, Abersoch & Pwllheli This crowd-pulling event gets bigger and better each year. With acts including Ed Sheeran and Calvin Harris already confirmed, you can look forward to a great music line-up plus extreme action on the water in the wakeboard competition, which attracts international riders. 7 North Wales Agricultural Show, Caernarfon Country Western & Linedancer Festival, Barmouth Dyffryn & Talybont Fun Day, Laser Nationals, Abersoch Sesiwn Fawr, Dolgellau Abersoch Dinghy Week Gŵyl Caernarfon Festival Optimist UK National Conwy Classical Music Festival, International Snowdon Race, Llanberis One of Europe s toughest endurance challenges, a 10-mile race from the lakeside at Llyn Padarn, Llanberis, to the highest summit in Wales and England, then back down. This year s race is a trial in the 2012 Skyrunner World Series for British and international athletes August Seabird Open, Abersoch August Chwilgig, Chwilog North Wales Country Fair, Bala Meirionnydd County Show, Bala Squib Welsh Open, Abersoch 11 Abersoch Regatta Day & Abersoch Mirror Week 11 Eglwysbach Show Topper UK Nationals 18 Abersoch Keelboat Week, Abersoch, 18 Rotary Club of Tywyn Race the Train 18 Sioe Wledig Llanrwst Rural Show RS Feva Open, Abersoch, Conwy River Festival Firefly UK National 23 Children s Duncan Days, Talyllyn Wales Senior Open 2012, Wild Wales Challenge, Bala, Cherub UK National 30 August 1 September Glass Butter Beach Festival, Llanbedrog It s a festival of the open air and tented stages with a host of magical entertainments and top sporting action, taking place on a playground of flat, grassy fields that sweep down to the beach, just two minutes away. Great fun and great views of Snowdonia and Cardigan Bay September British 505 s, Abersoch Events continue overleaf > 28 July, International Snowdon Race 6 8 July, Wakestock, Abersoch and Pwllheli 30 August 1 September, Glass Butter Beach Festival, Llanbedrog

32 Events 2012 September 1 Cerrigydrudion Show Barmouth Arts Festival 2 Caernarfon 10k 2 Porthmadog Triathlon RS 300 & Bala Standard Distance Triathlon 13 Conwy Honey Fair October Barmouth Motocross Weekend, last week of October half term Taste/Blas Dolgellau, Dolgellau Laser UK Ranking Snowdonia Arts Festival, Betws y Coed Cambrian Rally Penmachno & Clocaenog er UK Grand Prix 27 Snowdonia Marathon, Llanberis First held in 1982 as a dramatic alternative to the many city and town races. The demanding, spectacular route encircles Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales and England, giving the event a unique place in the annual marathon calendar Gwledd Conwy Feast November 4 Snowman Winter Triathlon, Capel Curig 18 Conwy Half Marathon December 1 2 Nadolig Betws y Coed Christmas 27 October, Snowdonia Marathon October, Gwledd Conwy Feast Caption Cultural Gold London s 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games aren t just about sport or London. They are also a platform for events throughout the UK that showcase Britain s arts and culture. The Cultural Olympiad in Wales will take on many forms. One of the most exciting and innovative is Cauldrons and Furnaces, conceived by the Arts Council for Wales and Cadw, the heritage organisation. Described as telling extraordinary stories in extraordinary places, Cauldrons and Furnaces spans the centuries from Wales s mythic beginnings to modern times, using as its stage a backdrop of castles and religious sites. In Snowdonia, rappers, digital designers, composers, set designers, film-makers, rock singers, actors and graffiti artists come together in Caernarfon Castle for a startling series of installations and live performances. At Harlech Castle, young people will tell the story of seven historic epochs through 21st-century eyes, with the charismatic figure of Owain Glyndŵr appearing as a kind of Ziggy Stardust. What will Bowie think? For more information go to: The London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay. The highlight quite literally of The Olympic Torch Relay s tour of the UK happens right here on Tuesday 29th May when the Olympic Torch travels by narrow-gauge railway to the summit of Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales and England. On Monday 28th May it visits Machynlleth, Dolgellau, Llan Ffestiniog, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Porthmadog, Criccieth, Pwllheli, Bontnewydd, Caernarfon, Y Felinheli and Bangor. And on the 29th May it starts in Beaumaris, Anglesey, before heading eastwards to Chester by way of Conwy, Denbighshire and Flintshire. Come along and enjoy the celebrations. 30 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

33 Digwyddiadau 2012 Glynllifon, Eryri 04/06 09/06 Mae Eisteddfod Genedlaethol yr Urdd, un o wyliau ieuenctid mwyaf Ewrop yn dod i safle Coleg Llandrillo Cymru, Glynllifon nepell o Gaernarfon. Peidiwch â cholli r cyfle i w fwynhau! Pafiliwn cystadlu / Llwyfannau perfformio / Arddangosfa wyddoniaeth / Pentre Mistar Urdd / Chwaraeon o bob math / Stondinau bwyd blasus / Llawer, llawer mwy! I brynu tocynnau neu am fwy o wybodaeth ewch i urdd.org/ eisteddfod neu ffonio Cynigion arbennig ar ein gwefan cyn 4 Mai. The Urdd National Eisteddfod, one of Europe s largest youth festivals is taking over Coleg Llandrillo Cymru, Glynllifon s campus you won t want to miss it! Competition pavilion / Performance stages / Interactive science pavilion / Over 150 stalls and exhibitions / Sports / Great food stalls / Much, much more! For tickets or more information go to urdd.org/eisteddfod or phone Reduced ticket rates on our website if you buy before 4 May. URDD.ORG/ EISTEDDFOD

34 Around and about Ar bob llaw To link in with the way we ve organised the accommodation adverts starting on page 44 we ve spilt Snowdonia Mountains and Coast into six areas. Here s an introduction to each. Bangor, Caernarfon, Llanberis and the Villages of Snowdonia How high do you want to go? Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) is the cream of the crop, the top mountain in Wales and England. It s not alone. Snowdon is the centrepiece of our very own Rocky Mountains that include 14 peaks over 3,000ft, the so-called Welsh supermountains. Don t worry if you haven t got a head for heights. There are wooded valleys, rushing rivers and mountain lakes too, and an attractive coastline along the Menai Strait and the northern gateway to the Llŷn Peninsula. 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. 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 Menai Centre. Don t miss dramatic Penrhyn Castle, the National Trust mansion set in beautiful grounds on the outskirts of town. Beddgelert Everyone loves Beddgelert and its enviable location. The picturesque stone-built 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, Snowdon to the north. Nearby Rhyd Ddu is a great starting point for walking up Snowdon. 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. The village is one of the stop-off points on the newly extended Welsh Highland Railway from Caernarfon. 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. Caban near Gerlan is a hostel catering for outdoor enthusiasts. Caernarfon 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 32 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

35 1 Abergwyngregyn Bangor 3 Bethesda 1 Caernarfon 4 5 Llanberis Dinas Dinlle Snowdon 2 Beddgelert Bangor, Caernarfon, Llanberis a Phentrefi Eryri 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 are still there). Other attractions include Welsh Highland Railway which runs for 25 miles to Porthmadog, Maritime Museum, Hwylfan Fun Centre and Redline Indoor Karting. Waterside Doc Fictoria is home to Galeri (contemporary arts complex with theatre and cinema) and Celtica (swish, large and modern, with a fabulous range of textiles, art and crafts). Plas Menai National Watersports Centre on outskirts. Menai Strait Pleasure Cruises come with spectacular views of the castle, mountains and Anglesey. In 2012, the Urdd Eisteddfod, Europe s largest youth arts festival, takes place 4 9 June at nearby Glynllifon. 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 attraction and Caernarfon Airport and Helicentre. Big, beautiful Glynllifon Country Park close by. Llanberis Where to start? Llanberis is packed with enough attractions to keep visitors busy for weeks. But first, there s the superb lakeside location at the foot of 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 new Hafod Eryri Visitor Centre on the summit of Snowdon. 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, though most outdoor fans come for the walking. Follow the self-guided Llanberis Heritage Trails or the choice of paths to the top of Snowdon. Editor s choice five top attractions (there are lots more) Caernarfon Castle well, obviously. Two in one on Snowdon ride to the top on the Snowdon Mountain Railway and see the new Hafod Eryri Visitor Centre (and the views, of course). GreenWood Forest Park, Y Felinheli family-friendly attraction that s also eco-friendly. Great fun! National Slate Museum, Llanberis amazingly evocative slate workshops, just like stepping back in time. Welsh Highland Railway, Caernarfon a little railway that takes a great big journey through the mountains all the way to Porthmadog. You ve read all about it now take a look at and book your accommodation (see pages 44 49). Link up For Tourist Information Centres please see back cover > Above: Bethesda / Hafod Eryri, Snowdon / Bangor Cathedral / Beddgelert Opposite: Dinas Dinlle

36 Conwy Valley Dyffryn Conwy It s the smooth, green antidote to Snowdonia s rough, tough rocky mountains. The River Conwy flows through a broad, sheltered vale carpeted with rich farmland and in the hills above thick forest. This beautiful valley is the dominant feature in a landscape of great variety. Close by there are tumbling falls, wooded gorges, mountain lakes, high moor and a charming stretch of the North Wales coast. There s also a great choice of places to stay everything from traditional market towns and villages to seaside resorts. 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. The bustling mountain resort of Betws y Coed, recently declared the official gateway village to Snowdonia, has been consistently popular since Victorian times and the coming of the railway. It enjoys a beautiful location amongst woods and riverbanks. Has many attractions including railway museum, golf course, high ropes adventure (with eco-friendly visitor centre), waymarked walks and famous Swallow Falls. Excellent Snowdonia National Park Information Centre, and an outstanding range of shops selling quality crafts, clothing and outdoor gear. Host of activities too, including climbing, mountain biking and horse riding. Betws y Coed is a convenient hub for the Princes of Gwynedd Historic Tours, trails based on the books by Sharon Penman free brochure available at the information centre or go to Capel Curig 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. Conwy The walled town of Conwy and its dark-stoned 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. River cruises, art gallery, RSPB nature reserve and many other attractions. Bodnant Garden and the start of the Cambrian Way long-distance path nearby. Llanfairfechan Mountain-backed seaside resort with a good stretch of sandy beach. Activities include windsurfing, golf, angling, 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 34 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

37 2 Conwy Penmaenmawr Llanfairfechan Rowen 1 Capel Curig Trefriw Llanrwst 3 Betws y Coed Penmachno publication describing five town and country routes, or download Llanfairfechan Walks from Llanrwst Handsome capital and market town for the Vale of Conwy. Nearby Gwydir Castle and Gwydir Uchaf Chapel reveal the area s eventful history. Ask in local shops for the circular walk leaflet or download from Penmachno Mountain village beautifully located amongst open countryside and forested hills. Fascinating National Trust site nearby Tŷ 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 TIC. Penmaenmawr Holiday resort with attractive promenade looking out across Conwy Bay to Anglesey. Sandy beach, paddling pool, children s playground. Small museum recalls Penmaenmawr s quarrying past. Good walking locally take to the hills on one of the historic trails, follow a waymarked quarryman s walk over to Rowen or sample the scenic North Wales Path. 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 Spa village where you can still see the mineral-rich waters discovered by the Romans. Trefriw 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. Above: Conwy Valley / Gwydir Castle / Llanrwst / Capel Curig Opposite: Gwydir Forest, Betws y Coed Editor s choice five top attractions (there are lots more) Bodnant Garden beautiful at all times of the year. Conwy Castle not just the castle but also the fortified walls and town crammed with medieval buildings. Snowdon Sherpa it s a no-brainer. Park the car, hop on the bus and see Snowdonia the green way (Betws y Coed is a handy starting point). Swallow Falls combine a visit to this famous beauty spot with shopping in Betws y Coed. Tŷ Mawr Wybrnant, near Penmachno it s worth searching out this humble cottage that comes with a huge historic legacy. You ve read all about it now take a look at and book your accommodation (see pages 50 54). Link up For Tourist Information Centres please see back cover >

38 Southern Snowdonia Deheudir Eryri Snowdonia might start in the far north around Mount Snowdon. But that s not the end of it. The Snowdonia National Park extends eastwards and southwards, across to Bala and almost all the way down to Machynlleth. These highlands are greener and rounder than those of rocky Snowdon but they re still seriously mountainous. Dolgellau s Cader Idris and the Aran and Arennigs above Bala are lofty outposts, looking down across a landscape of traditional farmland, forest and outstandingly beautiful lakes. In the Coed y Brenin Forest Park there s world-class mountain biking and family-friendly walking. Bala A small town that s a big outdoor centre for Snowdonia, famous internationally for events like whitewater canoeing, swimming, cycling and triathlons. But you don t need to be an ironman to appreciate Bala. Its outdoors scene is also very family friendly, with a huge 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 ( Many scenic paths include the highlight of a walk around the lake (you can also ride along its southern shore on the delightful narrow-gauge Bala Lake Railway). There s inspiring cycling too, with six waymarked bike routes and the boundless Aran and Arennig mountains above. Bala is steeped in Welsh culture and history plaque tells famous story of 16-year-old Mary Jones who walked to Bala across the mountains to collect a Welsh Bible in Such links continue: the activity centre for the Urdd Welsh League of Youth is located at nearby Glan-llyn, where new developments scheduled for later in 2012 include Llwybr Tegid cycle link between Glan-llyn and Llanuwchllyn. 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, Bards Quest and Corris Craft Centre, along with the narrow-gauge Corris Railway and Museum. Underground tours with Corris Mine Explorers, thrilling downhill biking in the forest, excellent fishing at Llyn Myngul, challenging walking on Cader Idris. Dinas Mawddwy Village with an Alpine-style setting amongst steep, forested hillsides. Large craft centre in former woollen mill is a popular attraction. Take a trip up into the mountains to Bwlch y Groes, the highest pass in Wales. 36 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

39 Bala Llanuwchllyn Dolgellau 5 Corris 3 Machynlleth Dinas Mawddwy The little village is also a good walking and fishing centre. 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 Tŷ Siamas, the innovative National Centre for Welsh Folk Music, and the Quaker Heritage Centre. The town 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 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 including new features for 2012 plus a host of other outdoor attractions and facilities, including downloadable MP3 audio trails). Editor s choice five top attractions (there are lots more) Bala Lake Railway ride this narrow gauge line. It s the best way to enjoy the views. Precipice Walk the name says it all. Centre for Alternative Technology visionary village of the future that excites and educates. Coed y Brenin Forest Park ride your mountain bike or follow walking trails, Go Ape on the high ropes or pack a picnic. King Arthur s Labyrinth, Corris sail underground by boat, then back on the surface visit the Bards Quest and Corris Craft Centre. You ve read all about it now take a look at and book your accommodation (see pages 55 57). Link up For Tourist Information Centres please see back cover > Above: Llyn Tegid, Bala / Corris Craft Centre / Precipice Walk, Dolgellau / Coed y Brenin Forest Park / Centre for Alternative Technology, near Corris / Opposite: Dolgellau

40 Cardigan Bay Bae Ceredigion 38 Here s a surprise. Snowdonia isn t just mountains. Our boundaries include some of the sandiest, most spectacular stretches of coastline in Britain. The northern arc of Cardigan Bay much of it in the National Park is one of outstanding beauty. Mountains sweep down to the sea in a series of stunning estuaries and big beaches. In the hills you ll find remote beauty spots, mountain lakes and exhilarating walking. Or sit back and let the train take the strain on narrow-gauge railways and the mainline Cambrian Coast Railway. Aberdovey/Aberdyfi You ll see both versions of its placename when you re out and about. And there are at least two 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 a 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 from here to Bala in 1800 to collect a Welsh Bible. Gentle lakeside walks too, along nearby Llyn Myngul. Cyclists can follow the Lôn Dysynni cycle route. Good local food and amenities. In the mountains explore Bird Rock and the moody ruins of Castell-y-Bere. Barmouth/Abermaw Popular resort on the entrance to the beautiful Mawddach Estuary, a location reflected in its Welsh name of Abermaw (aber means mouth of ). 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. Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr Take a walk up into the hills for panoramic views of sea and mountains, or follow the Mawddach Trail along the idyllic old rail route to Dolgellau. Discover the history of Barmouth in the Sailors Institute located around the harbour along with Tŷ Gwyn s shipwreck museum and Tŷ Crwn Round House. Dyffryn Ardudwy Traditional village well located for coast and country. Prehistoric burial chamber an important local site. 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 to Barmouth. Big sandy beach. Take a ride on the Fairbourne Railway, the smallest of Wales s narrow-gauge railways (with ferry link to Barmouth).

41 4 4 Harlech Llanbedr Dyffryn Ardudwy 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. Royal St David s is one of Wales s top golf courses. Attractions include Theatre Ardudwy, swimming pool, new climbing wall and craft shops. Taste Hufenfa Castell s delicious artisan ice cream. 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. 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 and relaxing, and touring the many nearby attractions. Tywyn Seaside resort and touring base. Attractions include large sandy beach and narrow-gauge Talyllyn Railway that travels deep into the hills. Many local beauty spots Dolgoch Falls, Bird Rock, Llyn Myngul and Castell-y-Bere, atmospheric stronghold of the Welsh princes. Above: Harlech Castle / Fairbourne Railway / Bird Rock / Dolgoch Falls / Aberdyfi Opposite: Barmouth harbour and beach Barmouth 3 Fairbourne Cardigan Bay Llwyngwril Abergynolwyn 5 Tywyn 2 Editor s choice five top attractions (there are lots more) Aberdovey Golf Club a legendary links course, on the hit list of every self-respecting golfing enthusiast. Bird Rock seabirds still flock to this spectacular former sea cliff, now miles inland in the Dysynni Valley. Barmouth to Fairbourne and back walk over the railway bridge or catch the train to Fairbourne, then return on the narrow-gauge Fairbourne Railway and Barmouth Ferry. Harlech Castle it s one of those places you have to experience. Medieval power in the raw, and great views. Talyllyn Railway ride up a lovely valley to Abergynolwyn, stopping off en route at Dolgoch Falls. You ve read all about it now take a look at and book your accommodation (see pages 58 61). Link up Aberdovey/Aberdyfi For Tourist Information Centres please see back cover >

42 Criccieth, Porthmadog and the Vale of Ffestiniog This area neatly sums up why we re known as Snowdonia Mountains and Coast. It has a foot in both camps, coast and country, with the lively harbour town of Porthmadog on the dividing line. Go a mile or so west of Porthmadog and you re walking on sands at the start of the Llŷn Peninsula. In the other direction, jump on a little railway and climb up the wooded Vale of Ffestiniog into the mountains. This part of Wales is especially rich in history and heritage, reflected in a fascinating choice of places to visit and cultural attractions. Blaenau Ffestiniog Former slate capital of Wales with a strange, compelling beauty. 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. Make a day of it and travel here by the narrow-gauge Ffestiniog Railway from Porthmadog. Bring the bike a new lakeside cycle trail along Tanygrisiau Lake and specialist mountain biking downhill route at Llechwedd are scheduled to open in spring Town centre improvements are revitalising the shopping area and a new pedal-powered velorail attraction, the first in Britain, opens later in the year. Borth-y-Gest Small, picturesque harbour village, the seaside arm of nearby Porthmadog. Beautiful estuary and mountain views. An enticing introduction to Llŷn. Morfa Bychan and Black Rock Sands are nearby go trekking here not with ponies, but llamas. Criccieth Victorian charm comes to the seaside with a medieval castle thrown in for good measure. Criccieth s two beaches are separated by a spectacular headland fortress. The little 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 Llŷn Peninsula. Excellent coarse fishing nearby at Bron Eifion s six-acre lake. Llanystumdwy Small village near Criccieth, 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 40 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

43 Criccieth, Porthmadog a Dyffryn Ffestiniog Minister during World War One, and gave women the vote. Also home to Tŷ Newydd National Writers Centre for Wales. Dwyfor Rabbit Ranch Farm and Dragon Raiders Paintball both close by. 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 (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! Porthmadog s best-loved landmark is The Cob, a mile-long embankment across the estuary which has shaped the destiny of the town. Porthmadog is a good base for walkers and cyclists it s at one end of the Llŷn Coastal Path and Lôn Ardudwy bike route. The town itself is also an attractive place to explore on foot, especially since the recently completed bypass has taken much of the traffic away from the centre. Trawsfynydd Another well-located walking and cycling base close to mountains and the trails in the Coed y Brenin Forest Park. Waterbus boat trips on Llyn Trawsfynydd, plus a new jetty and lakeside building for the angling club and other lake users due to open late Visit Llys Ednowain Hostel and Heritage Centre which gives a glimpse into local culture and the Trawsfynydd of old. 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). Above: Black Rock Sands Below: Llyn y Manod, Blaenau Ffestiniog / Criccieth Coastal Path / Llys Ednowain, Trawsfynydd / Llanystumdwy Opposite: Porthmadog harbour Snowdon Blaenau Ffestiniog 2 Tremadog 4 5 Criccieth Porthmadog 1 Borth-y-Gest Llanystumdwy 3 Trawsfynydd Editor s choice five top attractions (there are lots more) Criccieth Castle a medieval stronghold-beside-the-sea. Llechwedd Slate Caverns take an underground tour. Portmeirion fantasy village where Italy meets North Wales. Railway mania. We re cheating here. We can t stick to one attraction there are three narrow-gauge lines, all at Porthmadog. Plas Tan y Bwlch, Maentwrog explore the gorgeous gardens and grounds of the Snowdonia National Park s Study Centre. You ve read all about it now take a look at and book your accommodation (see pages 62 67). Link up For Tourist Information Centres please see back cover >

44 Llŷn Peninsula Pen Llŷn Llŷn is unmistakeable in so many ways. You can t miss it on the map it s that crooked finger of land that points forcefully into the Irish Sea. Snowdon s arm also has a distinct identity. It s a bastion of Celtic history and heritage, a stronghold of Welsh culture and language. Then there s the look of the place it s stunning. Llŷn is a protected Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the strength of its exceptional coastline of coves, headlands, beaches and bays rich in wildlife. They re all interlinked by the Llŷn Coastal Path (now part of the all-wales Coast Path), while on the north coast the Pilgrim s Route along the 30-mile peninsula ends up on Bardsey Island, a National Nature Reserve renowned internationally for its birdlife. Aberdaron Land s end at its most idyllic. This fishing village was the last stop for pilgrims on the way to Ynys Enlli, Bardsey Island. Celebrated poet RS Thomas lived in a cottage within the beautiful grounds of Plas yn Rhiw, a small National Trust manor house. 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 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 (contact Abersoch Tourist Office for details). 42 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

45 Caernarfon Bay Porthdinllaen 3 3 Llithfaen 2 Nefyn Aberdaron Bardsey Island Pwllheli Llanbedrog Abersoch 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. Llithfaen Village set in a landscape full of interest. On Yr Eifl mountains there s Tre r Ceiri, an astonishingly well-preserved prehistoric 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 not for the faint hearted it s like playing off the deck of an aircraft carrier. 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 crescent of sands. Village and beach are owned by National Trust access on foot only. Pwllheli Llŷn 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). Excellent leisure centre to keep the kids entertained. Glasfryn Parc and Penarth Fawr medieval house both nearby. Editor s choice five top attractions (there are lots more) Boat trip to Bardsey Island (from Porth Meudwy near Aberdaron and Pwllheli) keep an eye on the weather, ask locally for details. Glasfryn Parc, near Pwllheli all-action family activity and adventure centre. Nant Gwrtheyrn, Llithfaen former slate village in spectacular spot, now a Welsh Language and Heritage Centre open to day visitors. Plas yn Rhiw, near Aberdaron lovingly restored little manor house with outstanding gardens. Porth Oer ( Whistling Sands ) walk along the beach barefoot and see if you can make the sands squeak. You ve read all about it now take a look at and book your accommodation (see pages 68 71). Link up For Tourist Information Centres please see back cover > Above: Porthdinllaen / Porth Ceiriad, Abersoch / Aberdaron / Pwllheli Opposite: View from Mynydd Tir-y-Cwmwd, Llanbedrog

46 Come for the castle, stay for the town A WORLD HERITAGE SITE Bangor, Caernarfon, Llanberis and the Villages of Snowdonia Garden Hotel Guest Accommodation r11; A10; Open 1 12; B&B pp } C ( % s k - ] ú ß Z I v i 1 High Street, Bangor LL57 1DQ T: F: reception@gardenhotel.co.uk Mr Andrew Lui 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. 3D Bron Menai Guest House Guest Accommodation r9; A9; Open 1 12; B&B pp F } C Z ( % k ] ú ß Z * I _ North Road, Caernarfon LL55 1BA T: F: enquiries@bronmenai.co.uk Mrs V Ashcroft Ideally situated for touring fantastic scenery, beaches, wildlife reserves, walking. Cycling, climbing. Castles, heritage sites. Narrow guage railways. Mount Snowdon, slate/copper mines. Restaurant. Open Nov Mar. Subject to Nos. 3D Yr-Elen, B&B Llandegai, Bangor LL57 4LD T: F: B. K. Hughes Fabulous scenery, Snowdonia, sea, Trust properties, golfing, walking. Central for Anglesey, Irish crossings, Welsh railways and beaches. Ground floor accommodation, full facilities, keys, secure parking. Colourful garden. Warm Welsh welcome. Croeso. Bed & Breakfast r3; A1; Open 3 11; B&B pp F } ( % ] ú ß * I 2E Caernarfon leaflet To order a copy tel CAERNARFON TOWN GUIDE Bryn Hyfryd Guest House r2; A2; Open 1 12; B&B pp ( % ] ú ß I St Davids Road, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 1EL T: M: eroyle369@btinternet.com Mrs Eunice Diana Royle 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. 3D Tanronnen Inn 4E Celtic Royal Hotel 3D Beddgelert LL55 4YB T: F: tanbedd@12freeukisp.co.uk Mr W 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&Bpp: 87.50; Weekly: B&B pp 300 } C Œ Z ( % s k - ] ú ß Z I Black Boy Inn 3D North Gate Street, Caernarfon LL55 1RW T: F: office@black-boy-inn.com Jonh S. Evans At the Black Boy Inn, Caernarfon, North Wales, we have been offering hotel style accommodation and dining of distinction for more than five centuries. Situated in the heart of the Royal Borough of Caernarfon, within the medieval town walls. Inn r16; A16; Open 1 12; B&B pp } C ( % s k - ] ú ß I Glynllifon Bangor Street, Caernarfon LL55 1AY T: F: reservations@celtic-royal.co.uk This deluxe hotel offers 110 luxurious en-suite bedrooms, fine dining, art deco bar, stylish conference facilities hosting 300 delegates 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. Hotel r110; A110; Open 1 12; B&B pp 60 70; 2 night D B&Bpp: ; Weekly: D B&B pp } C Œ Z ( % s k - ] G ú ß Z p ß I 44 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

47 Bangor, Caernarfon, Llanberis and the Villages of Snowdonia Hillburn 3D Tŷ Mawr Farm 3D Bontnewydd, Caernarfon LL55 2YA T: Geoff & Adrienne Eliason Small family run B&B with a very warm friendly welcome. Superb breakfast in your own private sitting dining room with Sky Plus TV and opening onto attractive secluded garden. All rooms equipped to the highest standard for your comfort. Walkers and cyclists welcome. Packed lunches available. Bed & Breakfast r2; A1; Open 1 12; B&B pp 66 70; 2 night B&Bpp: ; Weekly: B&B pp } Z % ] ß * I Farmhouse Llanddeiniolen, Caernarfon LL55 3AD T: M: jane@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. Wi-Fi available. r2; A2; Open 1 12; B&B pp 30 35; 2 night B&Bpp: } C Œ Z ( % k - ú ß * j I Plas Tirion Farm 3D Erw Fair 3D Farmhouse r3; A3; Open 4 10; B&B pp } ( % ú * j I Llanrug, Caernarfon LL55 4PY T: F: cerid@plastirion.plus.com Cerid Mackinnon Set in beautiful countryside with views towards Caernarfon and Anglesey. Ideal setting for a quiet break. The farm offers a traditional Welsh welcome and provides all that is best in farmhouse hospitality. All en-suite bedrooms have colour T.V., hairdryer and beverage tray. Enjoy a hearty breakfast, packed lunch. Good access. Parking. Guest House r8; A5; Open 1 12; B&B pp } ( % k - ] ß I v High Street, Llanberis, Gwynedd LL55 4HA T: erwfair@fsmail.net Martin Ross 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. Seiont Manor Hotel 3D Glyn Afon Guest House 3D Llanrug, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 2AQ T: F: seiontmanor@handpicked.co.uk 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 conservatory offers a more relaxed dining experiece. For relaxing our swimming pool, sauna and fitness rooms are perfect. 72 High Street, Llanberis LL55 4HA T: info@glyn-afon.co.uk Dedicated to those wanting a break without children this restful and homely guesthouse, centrally located in Llanberis at the foot of the mount Snowdon. A short walk from the many tourist attractions of the area and an ideal base for exploring the Snowdonia National Park, Anglesey and the Llŷn Peninsula. Guest House Country House Hotel r28; A28; Open 1 12; B&B pp 55 95; 2 night B&B pp: F } C Œ Z ( % s k - K ú ß Z p * ß I _ r8; A8; Open 1 12; B&B pp (based on 2 people sharing) } ( % k ] ú ß I Tyddyn Perthi 3D Marteg B&B 3D Penisarwaen, LLanberis LL55 3BY T: enq@tyddynperthi.co.uk Mrs Janice Jones A warm Welsh welcome awaits you at Tyddyn Perthi, a high standard accommodation situated in the foothills of Snowdonia. A small, family farm breeding prize winning Welsh Black cattle. There are tastefully furnished bedrooms with beverage trays and TVs, the spacious en-suite bathrooms have cast iron baths and separate showers. Enjoy a wide choice of breakfast. 5-star self catering available. Secure Parking. Internet access. Marteg High Street, Llanberis LL55 4HA T: stay@marteg-llanberis.co.uk Mrs Carol Torr Martin and Carol invite you to share their 5 Star B&B set in a quiet location overlooking Llyn Padarn Lake yet within walking distance of Snowdon Mountain Railway, Snowdon path and all amenities. All bedrooms are en-suite, spacious and have superb lake views. Delicious breakfast, great hospitality, private off-road parking, drying facilities. Croeso! Bed & Breakfast r2; A2; Open 1 12; B&B pp F } C ( % k - ] ú ß * j Bed & Breakfast r4; A4; Open 1 12; B&B pp } ( % k ] ú ß * I

48 Bangor, Caernarfon, Llanberis and the Villages of Snowdonia The Legacy Royal Victoria Hotel 3D Rhiwiau Guesthouse 2E Gwern 3D Off Ffordd Gwyllt, Llanfairfechan LL33 OEH T: Ruth Carrington 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 r4; A4; Open 1 12; B&B pp from 30; Short Break: 2 night D B&B: from 95 F } C C Z ( % k - K ú Z * I Saron, Caernarfon LL54 5UH T: ellenpjones@hotmail.com Ellen Pierce Jones A warm welcome awaits at our beef and sheep farm, situated in peaceful countryside, 3 miles from Caernarfon. Wonderful views of mountains and sea from our spacious, attractive bedroom suites. Farmhouse r2; A2; Open 4 10; B&B pp 32; Weekly: B&B pp 205 } ( % - ] ú ß * j Llanberis, Gwynedd LL55 4TY T: F: res-royalvictoria@legacy-hotels.co.uk Tracy Salisbury The hotel is set in 30 acres of gardens and woodland, cradled between Padarn and Peris lakes 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. Hotel r106; A106; Open 1 12; B&B pp 30 60; Short Break: 2 night D B&B: } C C ( % s k - ] G ú ß Z * ß I Cil-y-Bont Bed & Breakfast r3; A3; Open 1 12; B&B pp F } C ( % - ] ú ß * I Ffordd Crawia, Llanrug Gwynedd LL55 4BS T: croeso@cilybont.co.uk Mrs Alwena Hughes-Jones Cil-y-Bont is a homely bed and breakfast establishment set in a rural riverside position, midway between Llanberis the village at the foot of Snowdon and the historic town of Caernarfon. An ideal base for exploring Snowdonia mountain range, the Isle of Anglesey and North Wales coastal resorts. 3D Ty n Rhos Country House 3D Old School Guest House 4D Guest Accommodation Seion, Llanddeiniolen, Caernarfon LL55 3AE T: F: enquiries@tynrhos.co.uk Stephen and Hilary Murphy 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. r17; A17; Open 1 12; B&B pp 40 75; 2 night B&Bpp: ; 2 night D B&Bpp: ; 2 Weekly: D B&B pp F } C C Œ Z ( % k - ] ú ß Z * _ v i Guest House Bwlch Derwin, Pant Glas LL51 9EQ T: oldschoolpantglas@talk21.com Terry J. Gibbins Beautiful mid-19th century school. Perfectly situated for the attractions of Snowdonia and Llŷn Peninsula. Set in a peaceful location, off the A487, midway between Caernarfon and Porthmadog. Off road parking. Ground floor rooms, wheelchair accessible. Highly recommended delicious homecooked evening meals. Full breakfast choice. Free Wi-Fi. Sue and Terry offer a very warm welcome. r4; A3; Open 1 12; B&B pp 35-42; Short Break: 2 night B&B: 66-80; D B&B: ; Weekly: B&B pp ; D B&B pp F } C Z % k - ] ú * I _ Cae r Efail Farm 3D Beddgelert Cottages 5D Farmhouse r2; A2; Open 2 11; B&B pp } ( % ] * I Llanfaglan, Caernarfon LL54 5RE T: M: mari@caerefail.com Mrs Mari Williams Tranquil setting with panoramic views of Snowdonia, Menai Straits and Anglesey. Caernarfon only 2 miles. Ideally situated, homely atmosphere in tastefully furnished surroundings. Plenty of good home cooking. Attractive en-suite bedrooms with television, tea/coffee, hairdryer. Good access. Ample parking. A warm welcome is assured. Evening meal by prior arrangement and limited availability. Snowdonia Tourist Services, Porthmadog LL49 9PG T: info@sts-holidays.co.uk 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 Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 6; Weekly: per unit POA; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: POA F } C Z ( k - ] ß Z 9 * y Ç I 46 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

49 Bangor, Caernarfon, Llanberis and the Villages of Snowdonia Bron Meirion Cottage Open 1 12; Sleeps 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: from 200 } C Z - ] ß I Z y Ç I Celyn 4E Nantmor, Beddgelert LL55 4YG T: tony@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. Nant Gwynant, Beddgelert, Caernarfon LL55 4NW T: info@snowdoniaholidays.com Mr & Mrs R. Gready Cosy 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 and DVDs. Open 1 12; Sleeps cot; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Z ( s - ] ß * y I Coed Gelert Holiday Cottages Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: } Z ( A s - ] ß * I y Ç I 4E 4D Coed Gelert, Beddgelert, Gwynedd LL55 4YQ T: glaslyn.leisure@ukgateway.net 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. Bryn Gwyn Self Catering Open 4 10; Sleeps 2 5; Weekly: per unit ; F } C % * I y Ç I Cae Berllan Cottages Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 14; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Z % k - ß * I y I _ Glan-Y-Bala Holidays 3D Waunfawr, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 4SD T: glenys.pierce@yahoo.co.uk Traditional Welsh stone cottage, 12 acre small holding, 3 miles from Caernarfon, foothills of Snowdonia above village Waunfawr, tranquil rural area. Panoramic views overlooking Caernarfon Castle, Menai Straits, Isle of Anglesey. To rear mountains Snowdonia, distinctive elephant mountain right. Large safe garden, ample parking, 3 bedrooms, bedding and electricity included in price. Ideal base for walking, sightseeing. Just relaxing 3C Cae Berllan, Tyn Lon, Llandwrog, Caernarfon LL54 5SN T: anncaeberllan@aol.com Ann Marie Owen Three stone cottages, on smallholding 3 miles from Caernarfon. All with own garden patio/ seating area, orchard area to picnic. Closed play area for under 5 s. Close to coastal path, cycle route, narrow gauge railways and beaches. Something for everyone. Glan-y-Bala, Llanberis, Caernarfon LL55 4TY T: F: enquiries@glanybala.com Mrs S. Handler Breathtaking views! Two quality apartments plus beamed cottage. Beautiful terraces, barbecues, drying-room, cycle store, ample parking. Seven acres of private woodland gardens. Bedding, linens, towels, electricity, central heating included. Near local amenities. Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 20; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Z ( A s k - K ] ß * I y Ç I 3D Bryn Bras Castle 3D Llanrug, Caernarfon LL55 4RE T/F: holidays@brynbrascastle.co.uk Mrs Marita Gray-Parry 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. Fully inclusive rents (inc. breakfast cereals and much more...) Weekly from 500. Special romantic breaks. Short breaks e.g. 2 people for 2 nights from

50 Bangor, Caernarfon, Llanberis and the Villages of Snowdonia Hafoty Farm Cottages Open 3 1; Sleeps 2 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } Z ( k - ] ß y I Rhostryfan, Caernarfon LL54 7PH T: info@hafoty.com Elaine Moss Set on the edge of Snowdonia, Hafoty Farm Cottages provide the perfect base for exploring Anglesey, the Llŷn Peninsula, Caernarfon and the surrounding countryside of Snowdonia. All six cottages have been converted from old farm barns to provide the highest standard in self-catering facilities. Personally supervised by resident owners. 4D White Peris Self Catering Lodge Awaiting Grading Open 1 12; Sleeps 13; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Z k ] Ç I J _ v c/o Blue Peris, Dinorwic, Caernarfon LL55 3ET T: F: mail@blueperis.co.uk Quietly secluded with views of Snowdon, White Peris is an excellent base for individuals, families and groups to explore this wonderful part of Wales. With comfortable modern facilities such as fully fitted kitchen, drying rooms and central heating. A warm welcome awaits. Both nightly and short breaks available. Also brochure available upon request. 3D Plas-y-Bryn Chalet Park Bontnewydd, Caernarfon LL54 7YE T: philplasybryn@aol.com 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 chalets or caravans for hire or sale with two or three bedrooms available on request. 3D Bwthyn Marteg 3D Marteg, Llanberis LL55 4HA T: stay@marteg-llanberis.co.uk Mr John Martin Torr Modern luxury cottage in a quiet location within walking distance to Snowdon Mountain Railway and all amenities. Two en-suite bedrooms. Towels, linen, gas and heating included. Patio with BBQ. Cycle storage and parking. Holiday Park Open 3 12; Sleeps 4 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Œ Z ( k - ß I y J ( Open 1 12; Sleeps 4; Weekly: per unit } ( A - ] ß I Dolbadarn Castle Trosgol Fach Open 1 12; Sleeps 2; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Z ( A - * y I v i Trosgol Fawr Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 10; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Z ( A - * y I _ v i Deiniolen, Caernarfon LL55 3LU T: mail@trosgol.co.uk Paul Dicken Trosgol Fach, a 175 year-old barn conversion is a quiet, comfortable retreat for two people with stunning views of Snowdonia's mountains. The well-equipped cottage has Freesat-TV, DVD, central heating and free Wi-Fi access. Sunny patio facing attractive garden and Snowdon. Perfect for walkers or just relaxing. See video on 48 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr 3D 3D Deiniolen, Caernarfon LL55 3LU T: mail@trosgol.co.uk Paul Dicken At 1000ft, Trosgol Fawr has breathtaking views of Snowdonia's mountains. All three bedrooms and lounge have mountain views and the property includes dishwasher, satellite TV, free Wi-Fi access and central heating. See a video of the property on Large fully-enclosed garden for children and dogs. Max 10 (but no more than 7 adults). Tŷ Mawr Farm Cottages Tŷ Mawr Farm, Llanberis, Caernarfon LL55 3AD T: M: jane@tymawrfarm.co.uk Jane Llewelyn Pierce 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. Wi-Fi available. Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 4; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Z ( A % k - ] ß * j I y I 3D

51 Bangor, Caernarfon, Llanberis and the Villages of Snowdonia Plas Heulog Holiday Cottages 2E Mount Road, Llanfairfechan LL33 0HA T: Four peaceful 1 and 2 bedroom bungalows for non-smokers with extensive sea and mountain views in grounds of country house. Excellent walking on Pilgrims' Way. Explore castles, Bodnant, Snowdon. A55 2 miles. Bangor leaflet To order a copy tel Self Catering Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 4; Weekly: per unit ; F } ( A ] * y Ç I Snowdon Caernarfon Bay Holiday Park 3D Dinlle Caravan Park 8E Holiday Park Open 1 12; Statics: 15; Statics for hire: 4; Static Daily: 40 65; Static Weekly: ; Short breaks available min 3 nights. F } C Z % k - ß Z 9 * ß I I ( Dinas Dinlle, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL54 5TW T: info@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 Dinas Dinlle, Nr Caernarfon LL54 5TW T: dinlle@thornleyleisure.co.uk Dinlle Park is close to a long stretch of sandy beach, near to Snowdonia National Park and some of the most magnificent scenery in Wales. There is a large outdoor heated pool with a sunbathing deck, adventure playground and lounge bar. Family rooms are comfortable and relaxing. Open 3 11; Statics:179; Statics for hire:25; Pitches: Touring 140, Tents 140; Touring Daily 12 23; Static Weekly: ; Short Breaks are available. } C C Z ( k - ß p * Z y 5 Ç I ( = Nant Gwynant

52 Conwy Valley Betws-y-Coed and District Tourism Association 4F Bron Celyn Guest House 3F Lôn Muriau, Llanrwst Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0HD T: F: Jim and Lilian Boughton Relax in our comfortable victorian house with superb views overlooking picturesque village and valley. Most rooms en-suite. Hearty breakfast. Packed lunches. Special diets by prior arrangement. Optional evening meals. Guest House r4; A3; Open 1 12; B&B pp 26 40; 2 night B&Bpp: 52 80; 2 night D B&Bpp: } Z ( % k - ] ú ß * I Walkers and cyclists welcome 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. Bryn Bella Guest House 3F Betws-y-Coed is the perfect destination from which to explore, with easy access to all parts of North Wales. Betws-y-Coed is The Principal Village of the Snowdonia National Park. With Superb accommodation, great places to eat, activities and attractions, galleries and outdoor shops on your door step to kit you out. Set in an idyllic location surrounded by woodland and rivers. Visit the website or download the FREE iphone App Betws-y-Coed Travel Guide. Lôn Muriau, Llanrwst Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0HD T: welcome@bryn-bella.co.uk 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. Months open:1 12 F } C C Œ Z ( % s k - K ] G ú ß Z 9 p * j ß I Z y 5 Ç I J ( = _ v i r5; A5; Open 1 12; B&B pp F } ( % k ] ú ß * I Afon View 3F The Courthouse B&B 4F Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 OAN T: welcome@afon-view.co.uk Mike & Barbara Williams AA 4 star Highly Commended. Village location with parking and bike storage. All Our comfortable, cosy rooms are en-suite and have been refurbished and offer free wi-fi access. There is a lounge with a Victorian coalfire. You can view the rooms and book online via our website. Guest House Old Church Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AL T: claire.snowdonia@btconnect.com Claire Balzer The Courthouse is situated in a peaceful riverside location within the beautiful village of Betws-y- Coed. It once served as the Police Station dating back to Victorian times. A special place to stay in Snowdonia where we provide comfortable and homely accommodation, a choice of breakfast and private parking. r7; A7; Open 1 12; B&B pp } Z ( % k ] ú ß * I r5; A5; Open 1 12; B&B pp (Single 45); Winter special: 2 night B&B Double en-suite: 120 Nov Mar (except Xmas week and New Year) F } Z ( % k ] ú ß * I Bridge View Bed & Breakfast 4F Craig-y-Dderwen The Riverside Hotel 4F Bed & Breakfast r3; A3; Open 1 12; B&B per room per night 65 75; Weekly: B&B from F } Œ Z ( % k ] ú ß * ß I Old Church Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AL T: welcome@betwsguesthouse.co.uk Keith Roobottom A friendly welcome awaits you in our charming historic home. Hearty breakfast served in former courtroom. Off the main road, 200 yards from village centre. Lounge and garden overlooking the river. Ideal for birdwatching and enjoying the outstanding views. All rooms en-suite with TV and many extras. On-line booking available. Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AS T: F: info@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 ; Short Break: 2 night B&Bpp: ; 2 night D B&Bpp: ; Weekly: B&B pp ; D B&B pp F } C C Œ Z ( % s k - ú ß Z * ß I _ 50 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

53 Conwy Valley The Ferns Guesthouse 4F Mount Garmon View Guest House 3F Guest House r7; A7; Open 1 12; B&B pp } ( % k ] ú ß * I Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AN T: ferns@betws-y-coed.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 r6; A5; Open 1 12; B&B pp } ( % k ] ú ß * I Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed, Conwy LL24 0AN T: welcome@mount-garmon.co.uk Petra Wing Beautiful, 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. Free wi-fi access. Fluent German spoken. More information on website. Garth Dderwen 3F The Park Hill / Gwesty Bryn Parc 4F Vicarage Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AD T: welcome@garth-dderwen.co.uk Mrs F. Morris 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. Discounted rates on 3 nights or more. A warm welcome awaits. Llanrwst Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0HD T: welcome@park-hill.co.uk 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 Guest House r6; A3; Open 1 12; B&B pp F } Z ( % k ] ß * I r8; A8; Open 1 12; B&B pp 33 50; Weekly: B&B pp } Œ Z ( % k ] ú ß p * I Glyntwrog House 3F Pengwern Country House 4F Guest House Betws-y-Coed LL24 0SG T: welcome@glyntwrogsnowdonia.co.uk Janet & Ian Poole 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. r5; A5; Open 1 12; B&B pp ; 2 night B&Bpp: } C Œ Z ( % k ] ú ß * ß I Bed & Breakfast Allt Dinas, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0HF T: gwawr.pengwern@btopenworld.com Gwawr Mowatt Overlooking beautiful Lledr valley, only 1.5 miles from bustling Betws-y-Coed, a warm welcome is assured at this charming country house set in 2 acres. Former home to Victorian artists. All bedrooms en-suite, guest TV lounge, delightful breakfast featuring Welsh produce, private parking, on-line booking. Adjoining self-catering 'Studio' accommodates two adults. r3; A3; Open 1 12 (closed Christmas & New Year); B&B pp 35 42; Studio: Sleeps 2; Weekly: per unit } Z % k ] ú * I y I Conwy Castle

54 Conwy Valley Royal Oak Hotel 3F Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AY T: F: 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. 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 jacuzzi bathrooms. Guests benefit from complimentary membership of the nearby Stations Health & Beauty Complex with pool, gym, sauna, steam rooms and treatments suite. Wi-fi is available throughout the hotel and all rooms have flat screen TVs. The awardwinning Llugwy River Restaurant offers modern Welsh cooking using local seasonal produce. 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 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 pp ; Short Break: 2 night D B&B pp: ; } C Z ( % s k - K ] ú ß Z ß I Stables Lodge 4F Swallow Falls Complex 3F Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 ODW T: F: swallowfallshotel@btconnect.com Situated just outside Betws-y-Coed opposite Wales most beautiful waterfall, Swallow Falls Complex has a wide variety of accommodation to suit all tastes. The inn offers 16 en-suite bedrooms a 76-bedded hostel plus camp-site with shower and toilets. Other facilities include bars, restaurant, coffee shop, landscaped gardens and children s play area. 5-a-side football, basketball and table tennis. Inn r16; A16; Open 1 12; B&B pp F } C C Œ Z ( % k - ] ú ß Z * ß I y 5 Ç Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AY T: royaloakmail@btopenworld.com Outstanding, affordable accommodation centrally located. All 18 modern en-suite rooms offer hospitality tray, flat screen TVs with selected sky channels, double glazing and central heating. Lift, disabled facilities, bike store and drying room available. The Stables Bar serves quality food and a wide selection of traditional ales, has alfresco dining and hosts regular music events. Your adventure starts here... Guest Accommodation r18; A18; Open 1 12; Per room, per night: 70 85; B&B Per room, per night: } C ( % s k - ] G ú ß Z I _ Betws y Coed 52 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

55 Conwy Valley BEST WESTERN Waterloo Hotel 4F Trefriw Tourism Association 3F Crafnant Lake Trefriw 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 For Trefriw village brochure T: Or visit us at: Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AR T: F: reservations@waterloo-hotel.info Perfect base to explore and discover the breathtaking scenery of Snowdonia s beautiful countryside and coastline. Modern and contemporary furnished hotel and lodge style rooms. Bridge 1815 Brasserie serves superb lunch and evening cuisine dominated by local fresh produce. Hotel r47; A47; Open 1 12; B&B pp 60 75; Short Break: 2 night D B&B pp: F } C C Œ Z ( % s k - ] ú Extensive leisure facilities indoor heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, gymnasium. Hair salon, aromatherapy massages and beauty treatment rooms. Within easy distance to numerous North Wales attractions and outdoor exhilarating activities. ß p ß I _ Crafnant Guest House Guest House r5; A4; Open 2 10; B&B pp } Z ( % k - K ] ú ß * I Trefriw, Conwy LL27 0JH T: crafnanthouse@btinternet.com Jan Bertenshaw 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. 3F Caerlyr Hall 2F Princes Arms Hotel 3F Conway Old Road, Penmaenmawr, Conwy LL34 6SW T: F: 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: ; Weekly: B&B pp F } C C ( % s k ] ú ß Z * I The Old Rectory Country House Guest Accommodation r5; A5; Open 1 12; B&B pp ; 2 night B&Bpp: F } C Œ Z ( % s k - ] ú ß * I 2F Llanrwst Road, Llansanffraid Glan Conwy, Conwy LL28 5LF T: info@oldrectorycountryhouse.co.uk Michael Vaughan Idyllically situated in glorious gardens with panoramic vistas of Snowdonia, the Conwy estuary, bird reserve and castle. A luxury AA 5 star Guest Accommodation. Antiques and paintings abound. Bodnant Gardens, Llandudno 4 miles. Midway Chester, Caernarfon. Ideal central touring base. Help with touring routes. Three golf courses within 3 miles. AA Breakfast Award. Trefriw, Conwy LL27 0JP T: F: enquiries@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, Egyptian cotton sheets, with fantastic views across the river Conwy. All have colour TV, Wi-Fi, tea/coffee, hairdryer, room service available and laundry facilities Hotel with drying room. Ample private hotel car parking. Our award winning restaurant is the pride of the valley with friendly attentive service complementing the dining experience. Log fire and cosy lounge bar to round off the perfect day in Snowdonia. Please check out our reviews if you need convincing. r9; A9; Open 1 12; B&B pp 40 55; Short Break: 2 night B&B: ; 2 night D B&B: ; Weekly: B&B pp ; D B&B pp } C Z ( % s k - ] ú ß Z I

56 Conwy Valley Swallow Falls Snowdonia on a budget Canolfan Croeso Tourist Information Centre For information on special offers, places to visit, free attractions and things to do contact our Tourist Information Centres (see back cover for details). The Old Forge Pen y Graig, Llanbedr y Cennin, Conwy LL32 8JD T: h.fudge@btinternet.com Roberta Fudge A recently renovated cottage situated in the beautiful Conwy Valley. Ideal for walking, cycling or for enjoying the beauty and history of Snowdonia. Relax by the woodburning stove in winter. Open 3 1; Sleeps 2; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: } Z ( A ] * y I 3F Tŷ Newydd Guest House Guest House r4; A2; Open 1 12; B&B pp 25 30; 2 night B&Bpp: 50; Weekly: B&B pp } C Z ( % k - K ] ú ß * I 3F Conwy Road, Trefriw LL27 0JH T: tynewyddtrefriw@aol.com Mrs Lillian Jones 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, woolen mills and much more. Lil and Allan welcome you. Beck Hithe Open 1 12; Sleeps 4; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: } C ( ] * y Ç I 1 Meredith Terrace, Dolwyddelan, Conwy LL25 0NQ T: glen.storey1@btinternet.com Susan Storey Ideally situated in the beautiful Lledr valley, five miles from Betws-y-Coed. Traditional stone cottage in private location on the outskirts of village. Perfect base for sightseeing, walks from the door. Exposed beams, wood burner, oil heating. Pub food five minutes walk. Pretty garden, patio area. Off road parking for two cars. 4F Tree Top Adventures, Betws y Coed Llannerch Goch Luxury Cottages 3F Capel Garmon, Betws-y-Coed, Conwy Snowdonia LL26 0RL T: stay@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. Self Catering Open 1 12; Sleeps 4; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Z ( % - ] ß * y Ç I Snowdonia Mountains and Coast DVD Call to order a copy or view and download online. Bodnant Caravan Park Nebo Road, Llanrwst, Conwy Valley LL26 0SD T: ermin@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. Multiservice & hard standing/grass caravan pitches. Holiday, Touring & Camping Park Open 3 10; Pitches: Touring 34, Tents 14; Statics for hire: 2; Touring daily; 14-19; Self catering holiday caravans weekly } C ( k ] ß * j 5 Ç ( = _ 3F 54 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

57 Southern Snowdonia Cross Foxes Bar Grill Rooms 7F Brithdir, Dolgellau LL40 2SG T: F: Nicol & Dewi Gwynne A contemporary welcoming new Bar Grill with rooms located at the foot of Cadair Idris mountain and conveniently located on junction A470 / A487. Enjoy fresh locally sourced food in our bar and grill or spend a relaxing night away in one of our individually designed rooms. Inn r6; A6; Open 1 12; B&B pp ; 2 night B&Bpp: ; D B&Bpp: ; Weekly: B&B pp ; D B&Bpp: } C C Z ( % k - ] ú Z ß I v Dolserau Hall Hotel 6F Frondderw Country House 5G Stryd-y-fron, Bala LL23 7YD T: veronicaandpaul@hotmail.com Paul Short A 17th century Welsh dower house full of character in a peaceful position enjoying stunning panoramic views. Hearty breakfasts with local produce are served in our elegant regency dining room. Fully licensed. Eight minutes walk to Bala. The ideal setting for touring Snowdonia or that relaxing, walking or cycling holiday. Guest Accommodation r7; A6; Open 1 12; B&B pp F } C Œ ( % k ] ú ß * I Enjoy freedom from traffic and stunning mountain views with our Llŷn Peninsula and Dolgellau cycle breaks packs. Dolgellau, Gwynedd LL40 2AG T: F: welcome@dolserau.co.uk Lovely Victorian country house hotel offers peace and quiet, even at the height of season. Set in five acres of well-established gardens. Spacious lounges to relax in lead off the galleried hall. Twenty three bedrooms where comfort is a priority with all the little luxuries that make you feel 'spoilt'. Guest Accommodation Lovely views from every window. AA Rosette restaurant. Well behaved children welcome. Half a mile from the nearest road. A perfect location to explore the local attractions, coast and countryside. r23; A23; Open 1 12; B&B pp 78 94; Short Break: 2 night D B&B: ; Weekly: D B&B: F } C C Z ( % s k - G ú ß Z * ß Palé Hall Country House Hotel Palé Estate, Llandderfel, Bala, Gwynedd LL23 7PS T: F: enquiries@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. r17; A17; Open 1 12; B&B pp ; 2 night D B&Bpp: ; Weekly D B&B pp: } C Z ( % s k ] G ú ß Z * ß I _ 5H Name Dwy Olwyn of property View of Cader Idris from Dwy Olwyn Guest House Guest House 8E 7F Talsarnau, Coed-y-Fronallt, Harlech Dolgellau LL47 6TS LL40 2YG T: F: deborah@gwrachynys.co.uk dwy_olwyn@hotmail.co.uk Enjoy Norma a peaceful Jones break in a glorious setting close to the Situated mountains an and acre sea. of landscaped Excellent base gardens, for walking and boasting touring magnificent Snowdonia. views Near of to Cader Harlech Idris, Castle, in a Portmeirion, peaceful location Welsh Highland yet only Railway, 10 minutes Royal walk St to David's town. Close Golf to Club all and amenities numerous and sandy numerous beaches. walks Warm within Welsh the Snowdonia welcome National awaits you. Park. For Cycle special lockup. offers Hearty visit breakfast our website. or continental. Personal attention assured. Ample parking. TV and tea/coffee facilities in all bedrooms. r3; A2; Open 1 12; B&B pp 25 30; 2 night B&Bpp: F } Œ ( % ] ú ß * I

58 Southern Snowdonia Ivy House Finsbury Square, Dolgellau LL40 1RF T: F: 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. 7F Hen Hafod Nr Bala, Fedw r Gog Nr Maerdy & Maesmor Bala 5G c/o Penisarmynydd, Maerdy, Corwen, Denbighshire LL21 0NP T: M: 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. Guest House r6; A4; Open 1 12; B&B pp ; Weekly: B&B pp C ( % k - ] ú ß * I Maes Mawr Awaiting Grading r2; A2; Open 4 10; B&B pp 28; Weekly: B&B pp 180 } ( % ] ú ß * I Llanelltyd, Dolgellau LL40 2HF T: sue@maes-mawr.co.uk Sue Ashe & Chris Carswell 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. It's our secret paradise, once seen never forgotten. 6E Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 8; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Z ( - * I Z y I Hendwr Scandinavian Lodges Llandrillo, Near Bala T: johnhendwr@btinternet.com On the banks of a gently meandering stream in the beautiful Upper Dee Valley, solid pine lodges have 3 bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom, lounge and Sky TV. Walk or cycle from your lodge into the Berwyns, stroll along country lanes. Fish the Dee, try white-water rafting. Visit Snowdonia s sandy beaches and little trains of Wales. Open 3 10; Sleeps 2 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Z ( % k - ] ß 9 * j I Z y J _ 5H Staylittle B&B Pencefn Road, Dolgellau LL40 2YP T: staylittlefarm@yahoo.co.uk Dawn Jones 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 5. Bed & Breakfast r3; A3; Open 1 12; B&B pp } C ( % - ] ß j I 7F Coed y Brenin Forest Park Pen Cefn Cottage Holidays Open 2 12; Sleeps 2 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: (Winter season) F } C Z ( % - * I y Ç I _ 5G Sarnau, Bala LL23 7LG T: info@pencefn.com Beverley Moss Whether your preference is a leisurely or energetic holiday, our beautiful cottages set in five acres of magnificent countryside offer the perfect location. Each 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. Tyddynmawr Farmhouse Farmhouse r3; A3; Open 2 11; B&B pp F } ( % ] ú * j I 7F Tyddynmawr, Cader Road, Islawrdref, Dolgellau, Gwynedd LL40 1TL T: Olwen Evans 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 26 years of 5 star accommodation, run by Olwen the owner. Y Stabal Open 1 12; Sleeps 9; Weekly: per unit ; F } C Z ( A k - ] ß * y Ç I _ 6G Llanuwchllyn, Bala LL23 7DD T: info@y-stabal.co.uk Susan Jones Beautiful well equipped riverside stone cottage, large enclosed garden, stunning views. Village location. Local pub/restaurant. Near Bala lake. Accommodation includes 6 bedrooms, 2 en-suites, 2 lounges, large modern kitchen. CH, DG. Suitable for accompanied disabled. Free wireless broadband. Perfect base for walking and watersports. Central for touring our breathtaking countryside. 56 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

59 Southern Snowdonia Gaerwen Farm Open 1 12; Sleeps 2; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: } C Z ( % ] * y Nant-y-Nodyn Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit from 200 F } ( A s - * y I 7F Gaerwen Farm, Upper Corris, Machynlleth SY20 9RF T: info@gaerwenfarm.co.uk Kate Jones An 18th century cottage situated on the Snowdonia Gwynedd border, 10 minutes from the market town of Machynlleth, the fishing village of Aberdovey and a stone's throw from Cader Idris. Sympathetically restored to a very high standard it adjoins the owner's property which is set in 10 acres of hillside. 7G Dinas Mawddwy, Machynlleth, Powys SY20 9AG T: elwyn@nantynodyn.fsnet.co.uk Elwyn & Megan Jones 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. The Tin House & Llwyngwril Gallery Holiday Accommodation Ael y Bryn, Llwyngwril, Gwynedd LL37 2UZ T: M: E debbieashton@uwclub.net Mrs Debbie Ashton Both accomodations are situated in the pretty village of Llwyngwril, which is an ideal base for exploring this beautiful area. It is a perfect retreat from a busy life. Close to the Dyfi, Mawddach and Dysynni Valleys. The Tin House Quirky accommodation, at affordable prices. Sleeps 4-5. Well equipped and comfortable. Ideal for young families or couples. Well equipped and comfortable. Open 1 12; Sleeps 4 5; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F C Z ( k - ] ß * Z Ç J Llwyngwril Gallery Holiday Accommodation New for Two luxury and spacious holiday homes. Both with two en-suite bedrooms, lockable bike stores in each and wheelchair access and facilities in one. High specification. Awaiting Grading Open 1 12; Sleeps 4 5; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F C Z ( k - ] ß * Z Ç J Or' Eira Llanfachreth, Dolgellau LL40 2DH T: info@oreira.co.uk Chris Gladwin 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 bathrooms. Ideal for walking and cycling (close to Coed-y-Brenin). Easy access to the coast. 6F Open 3 10; Sleeps 8; Weekly: per unit ; } C ( A s - ] ß * y Ç I Ty Nant Bryniau, Brithdir, Dolgellau LL40 2TY T: bookings@tynantcottage.com 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. Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 5; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Z ( ] ß * Z y Ç I 6F Snowdonia Mountains and Coast DVD Call to order a copy or view and download online. Llyn Tegid, Bala

60 Cardigan Bay Website features Approximately 50 different places to stay, ranging from quirky Georgian cottages to boutique style B&B s and award-winning campsites. Special events listings, tourist attractions and things to do in the Barmouth area. Places to eat, places to shop and all kinds of useful local information. Browse accommodation or things to do (and link directly through to individual business websites) or fill in the online request form for a FREE, 24-page Barmouth Holiday Brochure. To order the brochure by post/telephone or for any other tourism queries, contact Barmouth Tourist Information Centre, The Station, Barmouth, LL42 1LU, Tel Barmouth Festival of Walking September BARMOUTH ABERMAW Mawddach Valley & Ardudwy Coast A European Blue Flag Resort Places to stay & things to do Sheltered by the mountains of Snowdonia, flanked by the dramatically beautiful Mawddach Estuary, with a Blue Flag beach and a picturesque harbour Barmouth (Abermaw) the perfect base for vintage seaside holidays, fresh air getaways and activity breaks at any time of year. Ten days of guided walks around the Mawddach Estuary and Southern Snowdonia, led by knowledgeable and experienced local guides. Walks are graded to suit all abilities, from short two hour rambles to full day, high level hikes; all in some of the finest walking countryside in Wales. Tyn-y-Groes Hotel 8E Ganllwyd, Dolgellau LL40 2HN T: nephi@tynyg.wanadoo.co.uk Mr & Mrs D. J. Nephi-Williams The Tyn-y-Groes Coaching Inn, a riverside location in the heart of the Coed-y-Brenin forest on the A470 in Snowdonia National Park. With its rustic charm we are an ideal centre for mountain biking and walking the beautiful trails around the Mawddach river. Inn r7; A7; Open 1 12; B&B pp 39.50; 2 night B&Bpp: 79; Weekly: B&B pp 237 } C C Œ Z ( % k - ] ú ß * I Pentre Mawr Farm Farmhouse r3; A3; Open 1 10; B&B pp ; 2 night B&Bpp: 60 65; Weekly: B&B pp 200 } C Z ( % ] ú ß * j I Dyffryn Ardudwy LL44 2ES T: Mrs Susan Owen 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. 6D 58 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

61 Cardigan Bay Dolffanog Fawr 7E Rhinog Park 6D Guest Accommodation Tal-y-Llyn, Tywyn LL36 9AJ T: Alex Yorke and Lorraine Hinkins A special place to stay. Genuine hospitality, superb food, wine and comfort. Dolffanog Fawr nestles amidst stunning scenery at the foot of Cadair Idris, overlooking Tal-y-Llyn lake. Relaxed contemporary environment within a former 18th century farmhouse with slate fireplaces, log fire, large pocket sprung beds and a hot tub in the garden. r4; A4; Open 3 11; B&B pp 45 50; Short Break: 2 night D B&B: ; Weekly Break: D B&B: } C C Z ( % k ] ú ß Z * I Beach Road, Dyffryn Ardudwy, Gwynedd LL44 2HA T: F: rhinogpark@countryparks.com An idyllic haven of peace and quiet. Enjoy a warm welcome, staggering mountain views and beautiful Seaside Award beaches a short stroll away. Lodges furnished to a high standard. Short breaks and discounts available. Wales in Bloom award winner. Silver David Bellamy Conservation award. The perfect place to get away from it all! Holiday Park Open 3 10; Sleeps 4 5+Cot; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: ; Static Caravans: 25 F } C Z ( % - ] Z J Beautiful Wales Limited 7E Fairlawns Bungalow 7E Self Catering Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 4; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Œ Z ( k - ] ß * j I y Ç I Penty Buwch/Penty Mochyn, Ceilwart Ganol Farm, Llanaber, Barmouth LL42 1YS T: jan@beautifulwales.co.uk 4 star and 5 star cosy holiday barn conversions overlooking the beach/sea on an equestrian property. Luxury living to enjoy magnificent panoramic views from; underfloor heating (inclusive), TV/DVDs, dishwasher, washer/dryer, sun loungers, garden, patio/decking. Outstanding mountain, estuary and seaside walking on doorstep. Easy parking. Friendly pubs. Pets welcome. Fairbourne T: or enquiry@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 railway surrounded by the Snowdonia National Park. Ideal for seaside and mountain walking holidays. TV's "Railway Walks" Mawddach Trail nearby. Open 1 12; Sleeps 4 adults and 2 children; Weekly: per unit F } ( s - ] ß * Z Ç J Pandy 6E Crown Lodge 5D Open 3 11; Sleeps 2 7; Weekly: per unit } ( A % k - ] ß 9* y Ç I Talybont, Barmouth LL43 2AD T: holidays@rowenpark.com Mr & Mrs J.L.Williams 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. Open 1 12; Sleeps 19; Weekly: per unit ; F } Z A k - ] ß * y Ç I ( _ Ffordd Isaf, Harlech LL46 2PR T: accom@fc.harlech.ac.uk Ros Owen Owned by Coleg Harlech, this property is often used for educational purposes and provides good, no-frills accommodation which is reflected in the budget price. Located in Snowdonia, close to Royal St David's Golf Course, Harlech Castle and Harlech beach with views from many rooms over Tremadog Bay. Perfect for an outdor break. Ty March Gwyn 6E Y Wern 5D Brithdir, Nr Dolgellau LL40 2SB T: info@holidayinsnowdonia.co.uk Stunning spacious farmhouse set in 9 acres with views, provides a perfect base for family, friends, dogs and sports equipment, to explore Snowdonia and glorious coastline, or simply relax and enjoy! 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, CH, woodburner, terrace conservatory and gardens. View our website for full details and special offers. St David's Hill, Harlech LL46 2PU T: accom@fc.harlech.ac.uk Ros Owen Y Wern is ideal for families. Located in Snowdonia with views from some bedrooms of Tremadog Bay, perfect location to enjoy the great outdoors. Harlech has a sandy beach with miles of safe sheltered bathing. Royal St David's Golf Course and Harlech Castle are nearby. Owned by Coleg Harlech therefore budget prices available. Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 9; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: } C Z ( A - * I y Ç I Open 1 12; Sleeps 8; Weekly: per unit ; F } Z k - ] ß y Ç I (

62 Cardigan Bay Maes y Llan Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 8; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: } Z ( k ] ß y I Llanbedr LL45 2HL T: info@nwhc.co.uk A spacious semi detached house sleeping eight, in four bedrooms. Close to the coast between Barmouth and the castle town of Harlech. Just a few miles from beaches at Shell Island and Llandanwg. With the Ffestiniog railway and golf at Royal St David s course just a short drive away. 6D Hendre Coed Isaf Holiday Park Holiday Park Llanaber, Barmouth LL42 1AJ T: F: enquiry@hendrecoedisaf.co.uk Jane Thomas Boasting magnificent coastal views Hendre coed offers quality accommodation at an affordable price. Facilities include quality licensed restaurant serving local produce, home-made bar meals, bar with real fire, games room, outside children's play equipment, laundrette, large green and outdoor swimming pool miles from Barmouth. Short and long breaks available. Open 7 5; Statics: 87; Statics for hire: 20; Static Daily: ; Static Weekly: } C C Z k - ú ß p y J 7E Cynfal Farm Cottages Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } Œ Z ( A % k - ] ß * j I y 8D Bryncrug, Tywyn, Gwynedd LL36 9RB T: F: cynfalfrm@aol.com Carys Evans A perfect holiday location for couples or families seeking something rather special. Three luxury converted cottages, two with ground floor en-suite bedrooms. Talyllyn steam train runs nearby with own halt. Short breaks November to March. Only two miles from beach, new walking/cycling path from Bryncrug to Tywyn. Wi-Fi available. Hendre Mynach Touring Caravan & Camping Park Touring & Camping Park Llanaber Road, Barmouth LL42 1YR T: F: mynach@lineone.net Andrew Paganuzzi Award-winning site 100 metres from safe sandy beach, 20 mins walk along promenade to Barmouth centre. All modern amenities, with on-site shop, take-away, off-licence and café. Level sites, hard and grass standings. Disabled room. Excellent base for walking, cycling. Public transport nearby. Special offers available spring and autumn. See our website or phone for details. Open 3 1; Statics:1; Statics for hire:1; Pitches: Touring 60, Tents 180; Static Weekly: ; Touring Daily Cottage for hire: 1. } C Z k ] ß Z 9 y 5 Ç ( = 7E Golwg-y-Mor Plas Edwards, Tywyn, Gwynedd LL36 0DA T: M: keith.sweetman@tesco.net 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. Open 1 12; Sleeps 4; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: per unit: } Z ] ß * I y Ç I 8D Aberdyfi Rowen Caravan Park Holiday Park Talybont, Barmouth LL43 2AD T: holidays@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, chalets and lodges containing all the usual modern facilities. Shop and launderette on site. Free brochure. Open 4 10; Statics: 35; Statics for hire: 25 Static Weekly: ; Short Breaks: min. 3 nights from 120 F } Z ( A % k - ] ß 9 y Ç ( 6E Hendy Farm Holidays Farmhouse Hendy Farm, Tywyn LL36 9RU T: F: jones@farmline.com Anne Lloyd-Jones 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 mile from Tywyn. r3; A2; Open 4 10; B&B pp 35 40; Short Break: 2 night B&B pp: 70 80; Weekly B&B pp Self Catering: Sleeps 2 6; Weekly per unit ; Short Break: 3 night per unit: F } C Œ Z ( k - ] ß * j I I 8D Trawsdir Touring Caravans and Camping Park Touring & Camping Park Open 3 1; Pitches: Touring 70, Tents 30; Family Pods: 3 Camping Daily 15 33; Touring Weekly } C Z ( k - ß 9 y 5 Ç ( = _ 7E Llanaber, Barmouth LL42 1RR T: F: enquiries@trawsdir.co.uk star family park is situated on the Mid Wales coast just 2 ½ miles north of Barmouth, with magnificent views over Cardigan Bay and just a few miles walk from miles of beautiful sandy beach. Fully serviced pitches. Wi-fi available. Family pods with TV available. Open Christmas and New Year. 60 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

63 Cardigan Bay Dinas Caravan Park & Camping 6E Ynysymaengwyn Caravan and Woodland Park 8D Holiday & Camping Park Dinas, Llanbedr LL45 2PH T: E. Pritchard Clean, comfortable, modern caravans with mountain views. A small, quiet park with only 8 static caravans. Located between Harlech and Barmouth. 3 miles from sandy beaches and Shell Island. Kids love the tree swings and building dens in the woods. Visit Harlech Castle, Snowdon. Campfires allowed. Wood burning hot tub. Wifi. Open 1 12; Statics:8; Statics for hire: 5; Pitches: Touring 0, Tents 30; Static Daily: 50 80; Touring Daily 14.50; Static Weekly: } ( ] J Touring & Holiday Park Open 4 10; Statics: 115; Statics for hire: 0; Pitches: Touring 20, Tents 60; Touring Daily 12 25; Touring Weekly ; Short Breaks: Out of main season, 3 nights for the price of 2. } C Z ß 9 Z y 5 Ç = _ The Lodge, Tywyn LL36 9RY T: rita@ynysy.co.uk This local authority site is situated in the grounds of an old manor house with good facilities for all tastes. The Woodlands gained The Green Flag Award for 2010/11 and 2011/12. Harlech

64 Criccieth, Porthmadog and the Vale of Ffestiniog Cae Du Bed & Breakfast r3; A3; Open 1 12; B&B pp } ( % ] ß * 4E Manod, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 4BB T: M: info@caedu.co.uk Arfona Rowlands Price 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. It s our home make it yours. Bron Aber Pwllheli Road, Criccieth LL52 0RR T: meri2@btinternet.com Ms M Roberts A warm welcome awaits you at our B&B. We offer a relaxed and friendly atmosphere with comfortable rooms. Off road parking. An ideal base for touring North Wales. Bed & Breakfast r3; A2; Open 3 10; B&B pp } C ( % k ] ú ß I 5D Walkers and cyclists welcome 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. Snowdonia National Park Centre Plas Tan y Bwlch, Maentwrog, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 3YU T: F: plas@eryri-npa.gov.uk 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 Accommodation r33; A24; Open 1 12; B&B pp F } C Z k - ] G ú ß Z * ß I _ i 5E Snowdonia on a budget Canolfan Croeso Tourist Information Centre For information on special offers, places to visit, free attractions and things to do contact our Tourist Information Centres (see back cover for details). Bron Rhiw 5D Bay View Guest House Guest House r7; A7; Open 3 10; B&B pp from 28 C Œ Z ( % k ] ú ß I 28 Marine Terrace, Criccieth LL52 0EL T: enquiries@bayviewsownsite.co.uk Mrs Linda Glover Linda and Keith extend a very warm, friendly welcome to their home. Situated across the road from the beach, affording spectacular views to Harlech and beyond. Relax on the patio, overlooking the sea, enjoy our hearty breakfast with vegetarian option, locally purchased, many of our guests return year after year. 5D Caernarfon Road, Criccieth LL52 0AP T: info@bronrhiwhotel.co.uk Claire Woodhouse & Siân Williams Welcome to our non-smoking hotel with comfortable, spacious en-suite bedrooms. Enjoy a drink in our cosy bar or residents lounge. Outstanding breakfasts with award winning Welsh sausages, free-range eggs and only the finest produce. Only minutes from Criccieth Castle and beaches we are Guest Accommodation r9; A9; Open 4 10; B&B pp 36 39; Weekly: B&B pp 252 } C Z ( % k ] ß I the ideal place to base yourself for the Llŷn Peninsula and Snowdonia. Magnificent sunsets and spectacular scenery awaits you. Perfect for walking, birdwatching, golfing and total relaxation. No children under 10. Private parking available. Bodlondeb Porthmadog Road, Criccieth LL52 OHP T: enquiries@bodlondebhotel.com The family run Bodlondeb offers a warm welcome with good food and comfortable accommodation. Situated in a prime position with panoramic views of Cardigan Bay, it is within easy reach of the beach and town centre and offers guided walking holidays in Snowdonia and coast for individuals and groups. 5D Guest Accommodation r10; A9; Open 1 12; B&B pp ; Weekly: B&B pp } C Z ( % k - ] ú ß Z * I Porthmadog harbour 62 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

65 Criccieth, Porthmadog and the Vale of Ffestiniog Caerwylan Hotel 5D Hotel r24; A24; Open 3 12; B&B pp ; Short Break: 2 night B&B pp: ; Weekly: B&B pp } C Œ Z ( % s k ] G ú ß Z * I Beach Bank, Criccieth LL52 0HW T: F: info@caerwylan.com Explore, play or just simply relax whilst enjoying some of the best coastal views in North Wales. The Caerwylan Hotel is the ideal base to explore Snowdonia or visit the many beaches, golf courses, steam railways and castles in this beautiful corner of Wales. 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 new stylish restaurant. Most of our food is sourced from good, local suppliers. Our new contemporary bar serves a range of local beers plus the traditional lagers, spirits and a varied selection of wines. From our magnificent sea-facing lounge (new in 2011) we serve morning coffee, light lunches and afternoon teas. Treat yourself to a break at the Caerwylan in See for more information. 5D Guest House r5; A5; } C ( A % ] ß Z *

66 Criccieth, Porthmadog and the Vale of Ffestiniog Glyn-y-Coed 5D The Lion Hotel 5D Porthmadog Road, Criccieth LL52 0HP T: F: Overlooking the sea, castle and mountains, and furnished to a high standard, we are just 5 minutes walk from the beach, shops and excellent restaurants. Superb breakfasts. Free parking & Wi-Fi. AA Highly Commended & Sparkling Diamond Awards. Relax on the patio-garden with a glass of wine overlooking the bay. Phone for offers. Guest Accommodation r10; A10; Open 1 12; B&B pp F } C ( % s k - ] ß * I Min Y Gaer Guest House Guest House r10; A10; Open 3 10; B&B pp 36 46; 2 night B&Bpp: B&B pp 72 92; Weekly: B&B pp } C C ( % k - ] ú ß * I 5D Porthmadog Road, Criccieth LL52 OHP T: info@minygaer.co.uk Jan & Tim Davis Friendly family run licensed guest house. Many rooms with views of stunning 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. Y Maes, Criccieth LL52 0AA T: F: info@lionhotelcriccieth.co.uk Sandra Burnett The Lion Hotel dates back to the early 1700 s when it was known as Ty n y Maes (the house on the green). This splendid hotel has the advantage of being centrally situated on the quiet green where it commands spectacular views of the bay, mountains and castle. It has Hotel an exceptionally friendly atmosphere and offers excellent comfort and value. A great base for touring and Golf Breaks. Fully Licensed. Private parking. 10% discount on B&B rates for three or more nights. For special offers see our website. r46; A46; Open 1 12; B&B pp ; Weekly: B&B pp } C C Œ Z ( % s k - K ] G ú Z * ß I Moelwyn Restaurant with rooms 5D Gwesty Maes-y-Neuadd 5E Restaurant with rooms 22/29 Mona Terrace, Criccieth LL52 OHG T: F: moelwyn@aol.com Mr Peter Booth Our well established and award-winning restaurant has six well appointed en-suite rooms with views of the sea and the mountain beyond. Ideally situated for exploring Snowdonia. We offer freshly cooked produce complemented by a selection of fine wines and a lounge bar in which to relax. r6; A6; Open 4 11; B&B pp ; 2 night D B&Bpp: C C Z ( % k ] ß Country House Hotel Talsarnau, Nr Harlech LL47 6YA T: F: maes@neuadd.com Lynn Jackson Welcoming, family owned, historic house in eighty acres of beautiful gardens with stunning views. Superb food and wines in our award winning restaurant, terrace and bar. Individually designed en-suite bedrooms. Spacious and sunny public rooms. Ideally situated for beaches and all major attractions in the area. Open to non-residents. r15; A15; Open 1 12; B&B pp from 43; 2 night D B&Bpp from 73; Weekly: D B&B pp from 511 F } C C Œ Z ( % s k - K ] G ú ß Z * ß I The Abereistedd 5D Cae Gwyn 5E Guest Accommodation West Parade, Criccieth LL52 0EN T: F: info@abereistedd.co.uk Brian and Linda Gifford 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. r12; A12; Open 4 10; B&B pp 34 38; Short Break: 2 night D B&B: ; Weekly: B&B pp } C Œ Z ( % s k - K ] ú ß Z * I Bed & Breakfast r2; A2; Open 1 12; B&B pp 29 33; 2 night B&B pp: 62; Weekly: B&B pp 203 F } ( % k ] ú ß * I Penrhyndeudraeth, Gwynedd LL48 6LS T: cae.gwyn@virgin.net Stuart & Kirsty Harris Warm and welcoming centuries old former farmhouse. Fully en-suite accommodation less than 2 miles from Portmeirion and 3 miles from Porthmadog. Central location for Snowdonia Mountains and coast line. Set in large grounds in a quiet location away from the road. Views of the estuary, mountains and Ffestiniog steam trains. Private parking. 64 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

67 Criccieth, Porthmadog and the Vale of Ffestiniog Wenallt Guest House Guest House r4; A4; Open 1 12; B&B pp ; Short Break: 2 night B&B pp: 63; Weekly: B&B pp } Z ( % ] ú ß * I 5E Penrhyndeudraeth, Gwynedd LL48 6PW T: F: i.hartill@btinternet.com Sarah & Ian Hartill Close to Portmeirion and Steam Railway Magazine's Best B&B for Ffestiniog Railway (station nearby). Spacious, well-equipped double, twin or single rooms, all en-suite with comfortable seating, digital freeview TVs, period features. Delicious traditional or vegetarian breakfasts; views over Penrhyndeudraeth, estuary and mountains. Ideal touring base. Quality accommodation at great value. Treforris Bed & Breakfast Garth Road, Porthmadog, Gwynedd LL49 9BN T: Isobel Dickinson Treforris is a beautiful Victorian house over-looking Ffestiniog Railway and Snowdonia Mountains. All roomshave wash basin and tea and coffee facilities. A large TV sitting room and a separate dining room. We extend a friendly homely atmosphere to all our guests. Close to sandy beaches, golf and mountain walking. r4; Open 2 11; B&B pp 20 25; Short Break: 2 night B&B: 40 50; Weekly: B&B pp } Œ % - K ] ú * I 5D Wenydd House Bed & Breakfast r2; A2; Open 1 12; B&B pp ; Weekly: B&B pp } Z ( % ] ú ß * I Minffordd, Penrhyndeudraeth, Nr Porthmadog LL48 6EF T: F: Jean & Colin Rockingham Enjoy warm, friendly, award-winning hospitality in a modern house conveniently situated close to Portmeirion and Ffestiniog railway. Comfortable, well-appointed, newly refurbished guest rooms. Bedrooms fully en-suite. Quiet, peaceful location with mountain and estuary views. Secure private parking. Famous for superb breakfasts with extensive menu choice. Ring for brochure. 5D Old School House Tanygrisiau, Blaenau Ffestiniog Tel: Comfortable, well equipped mountain cottage, central Snowdonia. Special visitors Ffestiniog Railway Ticket. Station nearby. Walking from door. All linen and storage heating. Playground, sandy beaches, castles, climbing, fishing, Portmeirion, gardens. Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 4; Weekly: per unit } Z - ] ß * Z y I 4E 8 Glyn Terrace, Borth-y-Gest Borth-y-Gest, Porthmadog LL49 9UD T: Enquiries: Anne Keating, Borthwen, 14 Sunny Bank Road, Bowdon, Cheshire WA14 3PW Good centre for Snowdonia. Ideal for walking and sailing. Near harbour and beach. Full central heating, microwave and patio. Well equipped. Open fire. Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 4; Weekly: per unit ; Short Breaks: 4 nights min: per night } C Z * I Z ( 5D Cefn Uchaf Farm Guesthouse 5D Dwyfach Cottages 5D Garndolbenmaen, Porthmadog LL51 9PJ T: enquiries@cefnuchaf.co.uk Malcolm & Kath Severn 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 Llyn Peninsula. Comfortable en-suite rooms and guest lounge. Delicious breakfasts and home cooked evening meals using local produce. Pen-Y-Bryn, Chwilog, Pwllheli LL53 6SX T: sulwen.edwards@btconnect.com Mrs S. Edwards We offer a choice of quality accommodation. Min y Traeth has 3 bedrooms and is centrally located near the beach in Criccieth. Bwthyn has 2 en-suite bedrooms, is on the farm and enjoys stunning views of Cardigan Bay and Snowdonia. Guest House r8; A7; Open 1 12; B&B pp 30 35; 2 night B&Bpp: night D B&Bpp: } Z ( % k - ] ú * I Royal Sportsman Hotel Hotel 131 High Street, Porthmadog LL49 9HB T: F: enquiries@royalsportsman.co.uk Porthmadog s Premier Hotel. Porthmadog s only quality hotel, one of top five AA 3 hotels in North Wales, with 2 AA rosettes for food, in the 2011 Good Food Guide, 2011 TripAdvisor award for Excellence and included in the AA s Britain s Best Hotel Guide. Home from home, centrally located, family managed hotel with extended family atmosphere; babies and children of all ages welcome as are pets in designated rooms. 28 en-suite bedrooms, refurbished in 2010, luxury toiletries, extensive hospitality tray, hairdryers and flat screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and parking. r28; A28; Open 1 12; B&B pp 44 51; Short Break: 2 night B&B: ; 2 night D B&B: ; Weekly: D B&B: F } C C Œ Z ( % s k - K ú ß Z * ß I _ v 5D Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Z ( A - ] ß * j I Z y Ç I Fferm Gaerwen Farm Gaerwen, Ynys, Criccieth LL52 0NU T: gaerwen@btopenworld.com Mrs Mary 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. Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 13; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: } C Z ( A % - K * j ß I Z y Ç I 5D

68 Criccieth, Porthmadog and the Vale of Ffestiniog Gaerwen Town House 5D Seaside Criccieth 5D Open 1 12; Sleeps 6; Weekly: per unit ; - ] ß * I Ç J High Street, Criccieth Gwynedd LL52 0BS T: randwthomas@o2.co.uk Top two 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. 6 Marine Terrace, Criccieth LL52 0EF T: M: sueandrews57@gmail.com Sue Andrews 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. Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 10; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: C Z ( A % k - ] ß * I y Ç I Lavender Cottage 5D Open 1 12; Sleeps 3; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: 195 Z ] ß y I London Road, Garndolbenmaen LL51 9PJ T: info@lavendercottagesnowdonia.co.uk Claire Woodhouse / Siân Williams 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. Brochure available. Melin Llecheiddior 5D Open 3 11; Sleeps 4; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: } C ( - ß j I Z y Ç I Garndolbenmaen LL51 9EZ T/F: elen@whevans.freeserve.co.uk Mrs Elen 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. Rhosgyll Fawr Cottages 5D Plas Blaenddol 5E Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 4; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Z ( % - ] * I y Ç I Rhosgyll Fawr, Chwilog, Nr Criccieth LL53 6TQ T: enq@rhosgyllfawr-cottages.co.uk Colin & Frances Randall A relaxing, carefree holiday is available in three well equipped cottages. Wonderfully situated on a private 25 acre lake and woodland nature reserve with private fishing and country walking directly from the door. Inglenook fireplace, BBQs. Cleanliness guaranteed under the personal supervision of the owners. Close to beaches and Snowdonia. Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 10; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: } C Z ( A % k - ] ß * y Ç I Llan Ffestiniog LL41 4PH T: bookings@plasblaenddol.co.uk Diane Lea Charming, rural and tranquil retreat in private country estate (9 acres) in the beautiful Ffestiniog valley. Ideal family holiday location, central Snowdonia. Relax in the very pretty gardens with mountain views. Many local attractions/activities including mountain biking trails. Lake House sleeps 5, Old Bell House sleeps 10. Free Wi-Fi access. 66 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

69 Criccieth, Porthmadog and the Vale of Ffestiniog Gellilydan Cottage 5E 3 Gellilydan Terrace, Gellilydan, Nr Penrhyndeudraeth LL41 4EE T: judith.osborne@w3z.co.uk Beautiful Grade 2 listed beamed character cottage in pretty, quiet village. Sunny garden and private parking. Carefully renovated and furnished. Between sea and mountains and central for Harlech, Portmadog, Portmeirion sandy beaches. Whole area is wonderful for walking and wildlife enthusiasts, all from the doorstep. Please ring for colour brochure Open 1 12; Sleeps 4; Weekly: per unit } C ( ] ß * I Z Ç I 32, Beach Road 5D Open 1 12; Sleeps 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: 200 F } Z - ] ß * J Morfa Bychan, Porthmadog LL49 9YA T: Enquiries to: Mrs H. L. Smith, 5 Eynsham Court, Clifton Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 9AR Modern detached centrally heated bungalow situated 300 metres from beautiful sandy beach very near to shops and golf course. 3 bedrooms, bathroom, large lounge, TV, video, DVD. Well equipped kitchen, enclosed garden. Ideal location for exploring Snowdonia. Sorry No Pets. 7 Mersey Street Borth-y-Gest, Nr Porthmadog LL49 9UB T: M: kind286@btinternet.com Contact: Patricia Kind, Holly Cottage, Church Lane, Sheriffhales, Shropshire TF11 8RD 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. Short breaks available. Open 1 12; Sleeps 4; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: 120 min } Z ( ß * I y Ç J ( 5D Snowdonia Mountains and Coast DVD Call to order a copy or view and download online. The Bobbing Boats Open 3 10; Sleeps 6; Weekly: per unit } C ( ß * Ç 5D 14 Sea View Terrace, Borth-y-Gest, Porthmadog LL49 9TR Enquiries: Mrs E Everitt 5 Lower End, Swaffham Prior, Cambridge CB25 0HT T: 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 Llŷn. Café in village. Criccieth Ty Newydd Holiday Flats 5D 30 Dublin Street, Tremadog, Porthmadog LL49 9RH T: johnjulieo@aol.com John and Julie Otty Two flats in the village of Tremadog, which has 3 good pubs and a restaurant, a chip shop and a Spar shop. Good base for exploring the area by car or bus. Open 4 9; Sleeps 4; Weekly: per unit F } C ( ß Z I

70 Llŷn Peninsula Gwesty Ty Newydd Aberdaron, Pwllheli LL53 8BE T: Iain Roberts 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. 6A Castellmarch Holiday Cottages 6B Castellmarch, Abersoch LL53 7UE T: helenjones@castellmarch.co.uk Helen Jones Castellmarch, dating back to 1628, and once the home of fabled March-ap-Meirchion a Prince with Horses ears. 4 Quality properties The Stable, Granary, Bryn Beudy and Luxury Log-Cabin sleeping 5-6 persons. Launderette, barbecues etc. Ideally situated opposite Warren beach, and 1 mile from village of Abersoch. Open all year. Croeso. Inn r11; A11; Open 1 12; B&B pp } C ( % s k - K ] G ú ß Z _ Open 1 12; Sleeps 5 6; Weekly: per unit F } C Z ( A - ] ß * j y Ç I Hendre Barns Bed & Breakfast r3; A3; Open 1 12; B&B pp ; Stay 3 nights or more to receive a 10% discount. F } Z ( % k - ] ú * I Hendre Penprys, Pentre Uchaf, Pwllheli LL53 8EZ T: enquiries@hendre-barns.co.uk Centrally located on the Llŷn Peninsula with views of Yr Eifl and Snowdonia beyond. Our luxury rooms each have their own private access. All rooms include Egyptian cotton bedding, freeview TV with DVD, comfortable seating, tea and coffee facilities. Near Portmeirion, steam railways, coastal walking, beaches and much more. 5C Crowrach Bach Open 3 10; Sleeps 2; Weekly: per unit F } ( A ] * Ç I Bwlchtocyn, Abersoch LL53 7BY T: crowrach_isaf@hotmail.com Mrs Margaret Cook Quality non-smoking accommodation in a peaceful, beautiful, rural, coastal location. Spotlessly clean, well equipped with bed made up for arrival. Full central heating even to the conservatory and additional fire in lounge. Set in 2 acres with private garden and parking. Perfect for exploring the Llŷn Peninsula or just relaxing. 6B The Old Rectory 5B Gwyliau Fferm Crugeran Farm Holidays 6B The Old Rectory, Boduan, Pwllheli LL53 6DT T: theashcrofts@theoldrectory.net Gary & Lindsay Ashcroft A tastefully decorated Geogian home set in three acres of gardens and paddocks. Centrally situated on the Llyn Peninsula. Three individually styled en-suite bedrooms with beautiful linen, TV, hairdryer and tea tray. Close to marina, golf and good restaurants, parking for boats. Self catering cottage also available. Bed & Breakfast r3; A3; Open 1 12; B&B pp } C ( % k - ] ß * Nant Gwrtheyrn Group Accommodation Llithfaen, Pwllheli LL53 6NL T: F: post@nantgwrtheyrn.org Mair Saunders Large multi-purpose function room for up to accommodation. Contact us for information on: Welsh courses Weddings Conferences Meetings Events Heritage Centre Exhibitions Guided Tours Cafe r30; A30; Open 2 12; B&B pp 45 55; Self Catering: Sleeps 2 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: Welsh Language & Heritage Centre and gift shop; Open: Feb Dec, 7 days (9am 5pm) Free entry. F } C Z % s k - ] ú ß Z ß y I _ 5B Crugeran, Sarn Meyllteyrn, Nr Abersoch LL53 8DT T: post@crugeran.com Mrs Rhian Parry An exciting and exceptional new development of two large cottages to sleep 10 and 14, with saunas, steam-showers, high-spec kitchens and more. With our farmhouse and other cottages there are 6 to choose from all within a 2 mile radius, and surrounded by glorious countryside. Enjoy quality time with friends or family, Open 1 12; Sleeps 1 24; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Z ( A - ] ß * j I y Ç I _ relax in the whirlpool-type baths after walking the Llŷn Coastal Path, or bouncing on our trampolines. Our guests return. Searching for that feel good factor it s here! Welcome Croeso! 68 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

71 Llŷn Peninsula Tyddyn Difyr Open 3 10; Sleeps 2 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights from: 150 F } Œ Z ( - ] * I Z y I 6B Llanengan, Abersoch, Pwllheli LL53 7LG T: enq@tyndon.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 six. Beautiful coastal walks on doorstep. Surfing, cycling routes, golfing, bird watching. Abersoch 2 miles. Cleanliness guaranteed. Short breaks. No pets. No smoking. Croeso. Llŷn Peninsula Farm Holidays Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 10; POA; Short Breaks available } F C - ] * j I Z y I J 6B Llŷn Peninsula Farm Holidays gwynedd@llawrdref.co.uk For free colour brochure contact: Catrin gwynedd@crugan.fsbusiness.co.uk T: Annie gwynedd@llawrdref.co.uk T: Owner booking cuts cost. Come stay with us on the beautiful Llŷn 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. Bodwi Farm Holidays Bodwi Farm, Mynytho Road, Abersoch LL53 7SG T: bodwiholidays@btconnect.com Jackie Griffith Situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty, views of sea and open farmland. 1.5 miles from Abersoch. Enjoy a relaxing holiday in highly equipped stone cottages, each with own garden. 5 cottages. Brochure tel Mrs Griffith on Short breaks available. 6B Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 8; Weekly: per unit from 250; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: from 150 F } C Z ( A - ß * j y Ç I Snowdonia on a budget Canolfan Croeso Tourist Information Centre For information on special offers, places to visit, free attractions and things to do contact our Tourist Information Centres (see back cover for details). Bron Rûg Open 3 1; Sleeps 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: 221 } Z ( s k - ] * y I Mynytho, Pwllheli LL53 7PS T: info@hafoty.com Elaine Moss Bron Rûg is situated just 3 miles from Abersoch, and provides the perfect base for exploring the Llŷn Peninsula, Caernarfon, Anglesey and the surrounding countryside of Snowdonia. The Victorian detached stone cottage, set in enclosed lawned gardens, has been renovated to provide the highest standards in self-catering facilities. 5B Sychnant Bryncroes, Pwllheli LL53 8ET T: ann.griffith@hotmail.co.uk Rural location situated at the end of a quiet lane, safe for children. Stunning views of the Llŷn Peninsula. Short drive from many sandy beaches including Aberdaron, Abersoch and Whistling Sands. Ideal for coastal walks and cycling. 6B Open 1 12; Sleeps 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: } Z ( - ] ß * j Z y Ç I Bryn Crin Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: 180 } C Z ( - ] ß * j I y I 5B Edern, Pwllheli LL53 8YY T: annwen@nefyncountrycottage.co.uk Relax and enjoy a peaceful holiday in this beautiful located cottage, views of open countryside and hills. Ideal base to explore the Lleyn Peninsula. Close to beaches, golf courses and the coastal path. Ideal for those who enjoy walking. Ample parking for cars and boats etc. Storage available for bikes. Brynhyfryd Open 4 10; Sleeps 2 6; Weekly: per unit F } ( A % - ] ß * I y I _ 5C Caernarfon Road, Pwllheli LL53 5LG T: regandavid@pwll.ndo.co.uk Brynhyfryd stands in well-kept grounds overlooking marina and Cardigan Bay. Shops, pubs, beach and sailing club are within ten minutes walk. We welcome guests into Bwthyn (two bedrooms) a cottage within our grounds and Brynbach (one bedroom) a self-contained garden flat on ground floor of our house

72 Llŷn Peninsula Llŷn Peninsula Bythynnod Fferm Carrog Farm Cottages 5B Gorwel Holiday Cottage 5C Sea Front Holiday Flats 5C Broom Hall Road, Abererch, Pwllheli LL53 6PN T: F: B. L. Grayson Beautiful stone cottage. Stunning elevated sea views. Very comfortable. Modern kitchen. Luxury bathroom. Detached in two acre grounds. Two patio s. Gardens. Electricity & linen included. Central heating. Four bedrooms, one en-suite. Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 8; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: 400 F } ( A - ] * I y I 4 and 21 West End Parade, Pwllheli LL53 5PN T: M: Mrs C. Woski Sea front holiday flats overlooking beautiful beach. 50 yards from beach. Well equipped. Spacious. All flats with sea view. Studio 2 and 3 bedrooms flats. Close to golf course, marina leisure centre. 10 minutes walk to town. Ideal for sailing, fishing and walking. Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: 120 F } C Z ( ß * I Z y Ç I D. Gwynfryn Farm Holidays 5C Carrog, Llangwnadl, Pwllheli LL53 8NL T/F: carolgwilym@fsmail.net Mrs Carol Thomas Three newly converted farm cottages set in beautiful countryside with sea views. Comfortable and well-equipped, the perfect location for exploring Lleyn Peninsula with its sandy beaches, coastal walks, golf courses, horse-riding, boat trips and various other activities and attractions. Tudweiliog 2 miles, Abersoch and Self Catering Open 1 12; Sleeps 1 18; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: 150 F } C Z ( - ] ß * j I y Ç I Aberdaron 7 miles. All houses have modern, well-equipped kitchens, slate floors, oil underfloor heating, DVD players, Nintendo Wii and own patio areas. Large shared garden and washing/ drying facilities. Bed linen and towels provided free. Cefn Coed Holiday Cottages Open 1 12; Sleeps 1 16; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Z A k - ] * I y Ç I _ Garreg Lwyd Farm Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 5; Weekly: per unit from 200 Short Break: 3 nights per unit: from 120 } C Z ( - ß * j I Z y Ç J 5C Lôn Goed, Chwilog, Pwllheli LL53 6NX T: enquiries@cefncoedholidays.co.uk Mrs Julie Hughes Get away from it all. Enjoy a peaceful holiday in our comfortable and homely 18th century cottages, open beams, central heating, modern. Bathrooms, dishwasher, washing machine, microwave. Safe play area, enclosed gardens. Quiet countryside. Panoramic views of Cardigan Bay coast. The ideal base to explore Snowdonia. Beds made up. Ideal for romantic holidays. 5B Morfa Nefyn, Pwllheli LL53 8UR T: or Enjoy a peaceful, relaxing holiday in our newly renovated farmhouse near beautiful Llŷn 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. Gwynfryn Farm, Pwllhelli, Gwynedd LL53 5UF T: F: gwynfrynfarm@btconnect.com Proud winners of the WTB's 2005 self-catering award, we live on site so a personal welcome is guaranteed on our organic dairy farm. The cottages, converted farm buildings, are home from home with all mod cons. Visit numerous sandy bays on Lleyn's Heritage Coast 3 5 Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 8; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: F } C Z ( A k - K p * j I y I _ or take a dip in our indoor pool. Enjoy our fully equipped fitness room, games barn and picnic wood. Guests constantly return in and out of season. Colour brochure; or telephone us today! Walkers and cyclists welcome 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. 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. 70 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

73 Llŷn Peninsula Y Bwthyn 5B Parc Wernol 5C Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 4; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: } Z ( ] ß * y Ç I Pen-y-Bryn, Goleu, Llanbedrog, Pwllheli, Gwynedd LL53 7RE T: M: pambrookes.22@talktalk.net Mrs P J Brookes 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. Chwilog Fawr, Chwilog, Pwllheli LL53 6SW T: catherine@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: ; : Open 1 12; Sleeps 2 6; Weekly: per unit ; Short Breaks: POA; F } C Z ( A % - ] * j I y Ç I J ( Meillionydd Bach 6A Gwynus Caravan Park, Camping & Golf Course 5B Touring & Camping Park Pistyll, Nefyn, Pwllheli LL53 6LY T: owain.golffgwynus@btinternet.com Unique setting, private and with stunning views overlooking Cardigan Bay on South side and Irish sea on North. Welcome Wales star rating with all modern facilities, launderette, hot showers, clean with well manicured grounds, close to beaches. Five minutes from Nefyn. Boat storage available. Ideal for walking, cycling and touring. Open 1 12; Statics: 10; Statics for hire: 2; Pitches: Touring 55, Tents 25; Static Daily: 40 50; Touring Daily 14 16; Static Weekly: ; Touring Weekly 10 14; Golf Course: Mar Oct; Open: 7 days; Hours: 9am 7pm j ß I y 5 Ç I J ( = _ Rhoshirwaun, Pwllheli LL53 8HY T: meillionyddbach@tiscali.co.uk Mrs Lowri Thomas Relax, unwind in a tastefully furnished accommodation. Situated in peaceful surroundings within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, near the picturesque village of Aberdaron. Oil c/h and electricity inclusive. Free linen/towels. Lounge with log fire, modern kitchen. TV in bedrooms. Open 1 12; Sleeps 1 5; Weekly: per unit } C Z ( A - ] ß * j y Ç I Shower en-suite. Separate bathroom. Special rate for 1 2 persons. Also new barn conversion for 2, king size bed, log burner, cosy, warm with high standard of furnishing. Croeso cynnes. See our website. Brochure. Short breaks available. Graeanfryn Farm 5B Morfa Nefyn, Pwllheli LL53 6YQ T: F: jan@campingnorthwales.co.uk Mrs J. 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 Open 1 12; Statics:1; Statics for hire:1; Pitches: Touring 15, Tents 15; Touring Daily 15 22; Static Weekly: ; Short Breaks: Min 4 night stay not at Bank Holidays. C ß 5 Ç = Enjoy freedom from traffic and stunning mountain views with our Llŷn Peninsula and Dolgellau cycle breaks packs. Along Llŷn

74 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast/ Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr is one of the Holiday Areas within Wales. Each area has its own distinct character Take your pick... Introducing Wales Holiday Areas For FREE copies of any THREE Holiday Area brochures please tick the appropriate boxes and send to: Visit Wales, Dept L07, PO Box 1, Cardiff CF24 2XN The Isle of Anglesey Llandudno, Colwyn Bay Carmarthenshire Carmarthen Bay Rhyl and Prestatyn Swansea Bay Mumbles, Gower, Afan The North Wales Borderlands and the Vale of Neath Mid Wales and the Brecon Beacons The Valleys Heart and Soul of Wales Ceredigion Cardigan Bay and the Cardiff, Capital of Wales Cambrian Mountains The Glamorgan Heritage Coast and Pembrokeshire Britain s Only Coastal Countryside National Park The Wye Valley and Vale of Usk Name (please print): The Isle of Anglesey A place like no other, 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 is a superb base for all the family. Those that have visited need not be told. They just return Tel +44 (0) or (0) tourism@anglesey.gov.uk Llandudno, 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. The National Zoo of Wales at 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. Tel: +44 (0) , llandudnotic@conwy.gov.uk Rhyl and Prestatyn Among the best recognised British seaside resorts. Fabulous award-winning beaches with a range of family friendly attractions, events and activities. Walk the Offa s Dyke path in Prestatyn. An hour s drive from Merseyside and the West Midlands. Tel +44 (0) / rhyl.tic@denbighshire.gov.uk, The North Wales Borderlands Short journey: very different place. At less than 20 minutes from Chester, we re just a hop and a skip away from the North West and the West Midlands. From the bustling shops and nightlife of Wrexham to the culinary delights of the Mold Food and Drink Festival to the world-famous Llangollen International Eisteddfod. 100% Wales on your doorstep! Tel: +44 (0) , tourism@wrexham.gov.uk Mid Wales and the Brecon Beacons Step into fabulous walking country, right on your doorstep. Two National Trails and a National Park, charming spa and market towns, outdoor pursuits in outstanding scenery. Home to Hay Literary Festival and Brecon Jazz, events throughout the year make this a destination for all seasons. Tel: +44 (0) , tourism@powys.gov.uk Address (please print): Ceredigion Cardigan Bay and the Cambrian Mountains Some of the UK s finest coast and countryside. Holiday areas include Aberporth, Tresaith, Llangrannog, New Quay, Aberaeron, Aberystwyth, Borth, Cardigan, the Teifi Estuary and Valley, Devil s Bridge and the Cambrian Mountains. Popular pursuits include mountain biking, cycling, walking, sailing and angling and, of course, wildlife watching. Tel +44 (0) , brochure@ceredigion.gov.uk Pembrokeshire Britain s Only Coastal National Park Rated by National Geographic magazine experts as the second best coastline in the World. With 186 miles 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 Davids and Newport. Perfect for outdoor activities or just relaxing. Tel +44 (0) , tourism@pembrokeshire. gov.uk, Carmarthenshire Carmarthen Bay Stretching from Carmarthen Bay in the south to the Western Brecon Beacons in the north, discover Wales longest beaches, the Botanic Gardens of Wales, the home of Merlin the magician plus Laugharne, Llandeilo, Carmarthen, Kidwelly, Pendine, Llandovery and the Teifi and Towy valleys. Perfect fishing, cycling and walking. Tel: +44 (0) marketing@carmarthenshire.gov.uk Swansea Bay Mumbles, Gower, Afan and the Vale of Neath Unwind in the UK s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, relax on award-winning beaches, and explore unspoilt countryside. Visit some of the UK s best locations for walking, cycling, watersports and golf, together with Swansea, Wales Waterfront City, home to the country s first premiership football team. Tel +44 (0) , tourism@swansea.gov.uk, Post Code: The Valleys Heart and Soul of Wales A stunning landscape perfect for walking, cycling and many other outdoor activities. The Valleys has a unique history, including a World Heritage Site, Wales largest castle and Big Pit, the real coal mine attraction. For a true Welsh experience, visit The Valleys, the heart and soul of Wales. Tel +44 (0) tourism@caerphilly.gov.uk Cardiff, Capital of Wales The capital of Wales has unique attractions, top-class entertainment and quality shopping with a difference. Cardiff Castle, the Millennium Stadium, National Museum Cardiff and Wales Millennium Centre combined with Cardiff Bay offer indoor and outdoor entertainment for everyone. Tel +44 (0) , visitor@cardiff.gov.uk 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 cosmopolitan capital. Tel +44 (0) or +44 (0) s: tourism@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk tourism@bridgend.gov.uk The Wye Valley and Vale of Usk Brecon Beacons, Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Blaenavon World Heritage Site and Celtic Manor Resort. Explore bustling market towns, formidable castles, Roman towns, and magnificent gardens. Busy bees, real ales, artisan producers, Michelin stars and Abergavenny and Newport Food Festivals help to make this the food capital of Wales. All you need for a proper holiday! Tel +44 (0) tourism@monmouthshire.gov.uk Activities for all... Wales is the UK s activity capital. Find out more with the help of these FREE action-packed guides and take a look at the websites. For FREE copies of any of the activity guides please tick the appropriate boxes and send to: Visit Wales, Dept M07, PO Box 1, Cardiff CF24 2XN Name (please print): Address (please print): Fishing Wales Golf Wales Post Code: Fishing With endless coastline and countless rivers and lakes it s no wonder Wales is an angler s paradise Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr Golf Wales The secret s out! More and more players are discovering and thoroughly enjoying Golf as it should be in Wales.

75 Travel information Gwybodaeth am deithio 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 the pile- em -in packages have well and truly taken the shine off international travel. There are no such worries here Snowdonia s so close you ll arrive before you know it. By train Direct train services take you to the popular North Wales coastal destinations from most parts of Britain, with inland connections onto the Conwy Valley Line ( 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: Train tickets are available from Barmouth Tourist Information Centre. Useful websites include: By coach National Express services run to Llandudno, Bangor, Caernarfon, Porthmadog and Pwllheli from London and Manchester. Arriva operate the service from South Wales to Dolgellau, Porthmadog, Caernarfon and Bangor as part of the TrawsCambria network. By car 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. 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 surrounding area and further afield. By sea 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, Pembroke Dock and Swansea are a handy alternative. Irish Ferries T: , Stena Line T: , Fastnet Line T: , 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: , Anglesey Airport T: Caernarfon Airport T: Manchester Airport T: , Liverpool John Lennon Airport T: , Birmingham Airport T: , Local services The Snowdon Sherpa is the superconvenient bus service for Snowdonia and its attractions, with some routes on open-top vehicles. Whether you are walking or sightseeing, take the green option, leave your car behind, sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery. 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. 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: , Swansea North Wales Rover tickets allow travel for one day on buses and trains. For details of zones and prices: T: , Travel details For more information go to: (T: ) Journey times by car Aberystwyth Caernarfon: 1hr 47min Birmingham Porthmadog: 2hrs 46min 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 Manchester Caernarfon: 2hrs 2min Swansea Porthmadog: 3hrs 25min 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: 73

76 Nantmor 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: Bangor, Caernarfon, Llanberis and the Villages of Snowdonia Conwy Valley Southern Snowdonia Cardigan Bay Criccieth, Porthmadog and the Vale of Ffestiniog Llŷn Peninsula Symbols key Car parking facilities ÿ Ground floor bedroom C Liquor/table licence, licensed club/bar Pets accepted by arrangement Œ May be booked through Travel Agent V Weekend/Midweek/Short breaks available t TV in bedroom/unit En-suite ± Tea/coffee s Telephone in room/unit Ò Credit cards accepted - Cot/highchair available K Baby sitting/listening service ] Totally non smoking establishment Areas provided for smokers ú Special diets catered for «Lift Welsh spoken ß Public transport nearby Z Café/restaurant on site Í Foodshop/mobile foodshop on site p Swimming pool on site Garden j Working farm ß Coach parties welcome I Accommodation bookable through Tourist Information Centre Charge for fuel/gas ` Washing machine on site é Electric points for touring caravans Ç Showers s Bed linen available t Bed linen available for hire Gas available = Chemical toilet _ Access improved for mobility impaired people v Access improved for visually impaired people i Access improved for hearing impaired people 74

77 Making the Grade A Guide to Quality Assurance O r radd orau Canllaw i Sicrwydd Ansawdd 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? Simple, practical, no frills Well presented and well run Good level of quality and comfort Very Good Excellent Does a lower star rating equal less quality? Many lower star rated accommodations may still offer high quality but do meet all of the facility and service expectations for the higher star ratings. Is it particularly important not to compare Guest Accommodation ratings against Hotel ratings as different criteria are used when assessing. The advice is to always check with an establishment before booking to make sure that the accommodation offers the services and facilities that meet your needs they will only be too pleased to help. Visit Wales Gold Award Also look out for that extra-special property that has been awarded Visit Wales Gold Award, given for exceptional standards of hospitality, comfort and food in serviced accommodation. Occasionally, it has not been possible to visit the accommodation prior to publication. In these instances, the property is marked as Awaiting Grading. Verified Logo 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 A Warm Welsh Welcome Watch out for this sign as these places have achieved a Croeso Award in recognition of their exceptional Warm Welsh Welcome. Accommodating visitors with disabilities 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 that they have made to their properties. Look out for these symbols: _ Access improved for mobility impaired people v Access improved for visually impaired people i Access improved for hearing impaired people Please note: 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. Grading assessments are on-going and improvements made by establishments may have resulted in a revision since publication. Please check when booking. Further information on gradings and awards is available from Visit Wales, Welsh Government, Rhodfa Padarn, Llanbadarn Fawr, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion SY23 3UR Tel: quality.tourism@wales.gsi.gov.uk Any problems? In the unfortunate event that you do encounter problems with your chosen accommodation, please refer to gov.uk/topics/tourism/contactus/complaints/ concomplaints/?lang=en for further guidance. Serviced accommodation Self-catering accommodation Caravan and camping Establishment name (Colour header panel indicates the type of accommodation) Serviced The number of rooms and how many are en-suite 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 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 Penmachno Hall Guest House Penmachno, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0PU T: F: stay@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 r3; A3; Open 1 12; B&B pp (based on 2 night stay) 2 nights; Evening meals: Welsh suppers, Tue Fri, pp; 5-course dinners Sat only: ; : Sleeps 2 4; Weekly: per unit ; Short Break: 3 nights per unit: } C ( % k - ] ú ß * I y I s 4F 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 75