North Wales.
North Wales has some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the British Isles, as well as some of the best unspoilt coastline, especially around the Lleyn Peninsula and Merionedd. As such, the area can cater for most people from the intrepid mountaineer, looking for new challenges, to the more relaxed visitor looking for a delicious cream tea and walk along a coastal path.
Portmeirion
Portmeirion is one of North Wales most popular places to visit. And it’s easy to see why, from the architectural heritage, to the stunning coastal location and the sub-tropical gardens. Open daily from morning to evening, all year around and only a short 15 minute drive from our house. Whether you’re a foodie, architectural buff or millennial Instgrammer this has to be top of your list of things to do.
Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
The Ffestiniog Railway takes you on a 13 mile journey from the harbour in Porthmadog to the slate- quarrying town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. One of the oldest railway companies in the world, they offer an unrivalled journey back into the golden age of rail, while enjoying views of mountains, lakes and waterfalls. The Welsh Highland Railway is the UK’s longest heritage railway and runs for 25 miles. Journey in luxurious first class from Caernarfon, past the foot of Snowdon and the picture postcard village of Beddgelert, then through the stunning Aberglaslyn Pass and on to Porthmadog for an extra special experience.
Harlech Beach
Along Harlechs huge stretch of white sandy beach you can kite surf, wind surf and lots more while enjoying views of Snowdonia and the Lleyn Peninsula. On the northern side is the Morfa Harlech Nature Reserve, a haven for rare plant species and birdlife.
Isle of Anglesey
Visit the iconic sites (Beaumaris Castle, South Stack Lighthouse and the like) and discover hidden prehistoric tombs that rival Stonehenge in their ingenuity, world-class wildlife, Celtic shrines, action- packed outdoor activities and family attractions that include a unique sea zoo. There are boat trips to take and cycle paths to ride, footpaths to follow and clear seas in which to swim. You’ll come across some of the oldest rocks in the world on our coastal cliffs, and gorgeous green spaces inland.
Lloyd George Museum & Memorial
Visit the cottage where Lloyd George lived in Llanystumdwy. In the Museum you can explore unique collections, costumes and much more. Outside you can enjoy the pretty Victorian garden and take a stroll to see Lloyd George’s grave near the river Dwyfor. Continue your walk along the beautiful river, and pack a picnic to really soak up the beautiful scenery.
Snowdonia Adventure Activities
From canyoning to rock climbing, to abseiling, to kayaking, canoeing, mountain biking and many more, Snowdonia Adventure Activities provide instructor lead activities in the beautiful surroundings of the National Park. Now, which one will you choose?
Zip World Slate Caverns
Slate Caverns house underground and above ground adventures. With views across Snowdonia from the top of Titan, where you can zip 1890m from half the height of Snowdon, to the world’s only subterranean playground of its kind, Bounce Below, and Caverns, the most incredible underground adventure zip line and adventure course – there is something for everyone in all weathers.
Harlech & Criccieth Castle
Harlech Castle, built in 1290, is an unmissable combination of magnificent medieval architecture and breathtaking location also, its a World Heritage site! Criccieth Castle is a very short walk from the house, built in the late 13th century, the imposing gatehouse tower give way to panoramic views over Tremadog Bay.
Llanddwyn Beach
The beach in Wales that features both a forest and wild horses is Newborough Beach (also known as Llanddwyn Beach) and the surrounding Newborough National Nature Reserve and Forest on Anglesey. This area is known for its beautiful sandy beach, dunes, forest trails, and the semi-wild Welsh mountain ponies that roam the area. It’s located on the southwestern tip of Anglesey, Wales, and is part of the Newborough National Nature Reserve.
Zip World Slate Caverns
Slate Caverns house underground and above ground adventures. With views across Snowdonia from the top of Titan, where you can zip 1890m from half the height of Snowdon, to the world’s only subterranean playground of its kind, Bounce Below, and Caverns, the most incredible underground adventure zip line and adventure course – there is something for everyone in all weathers shape the way we work.
Snowdon
Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa in Welsh) is the highest mountain in Wales and England. Standing tall over the village of Llanberis, Snowdon is a part of a close-knit family of jagged peaks and can offer views of Snowdonia, Anglesey, Pembrokeshire and Ireland. Choose from six different paths to conquer this 1,085 metre (3,560 feet) giant which are the Llanberis Path, Pyg Track, Miners’ Track, Watkin Path, Rhyd-Ddu Path or the Snowdon Ranger Path. Park at Pen y Pass Car Park - you must pre-book a parking space. If the car park is full and you are keen to walk from Pen-y-Pass you can use the Sherpa’r Wyddfa Park and Ride Service running from Nant Peris and Llanberis car parks.
Dragon Raiders Activity Park
If adrenaline fuelled adventures are your thing then take your pick from paint balling, segways, quad biking or Bear Grylls Survival Academy.Make sure you pre book your adventure!
Eat & Drink
Dylans
Criccieth
Located on Criccieth Beach, in a glass fronted art deco building, Dylan’s is a village staple. The menu ranges from the house speciality of oysters to pizza, burgers, mussels and many more fish dishes than you can shake a stick at. To wet the palette, choose from their extensive cocktail menu or pop in for a delicious coffee after a walk along the beach.
Cafe No. 46
Criccieth
Just around the corner from the house, the highly recommended No. 46 is the perfect spot for breakfast, coffee, scones, delicous cakes or even a takeaway quiche. Friendly staff serve homemade fresh food, Monday to Saturday 8:30-5:30pm throughout the year.
Bert’s Kitchen Garden
Trefor, Llyn Peninsula
The menu is jam-packed with home grown veggies and locally sourced ingredients, not to mention a cocktail list of dreams. It’s simple and showcases the very best that North Wales has to offer. After a day exploring the peninsula, settle down with a beautifully cooked steak and house chimichurri in the kitchen garden with distant mountain views. Bert’s is positioned around the corner from Trefor beach.
There are plenty of local to eat and drink during your stay, below are some of our favourites. We advise booking in advance, especially during the busier months.
Bar 51 Restaurnt
Criccieth
A tapas restaurant and bar situated in the heart of the village, offering authentic Mediterranean dishes, fine wines and delicious desserts. The friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere make this a staple for visitors and locals alike. Open Tuesday - Saturday 5pm-9pm.
Zinc Cafe Bar & Grill
Abersoch
Zinc’s spectacular glass terrace over loooking Abersoch Harbour serves as the perfect place to enjoy everything from breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner or drinks. The relaxed atmosphere and delicious dishes ensure it is widely renowned as the place to be.
Caffi’r Felin
Menter y Felin Uchaf, Pwllheli
Nestled in the heart of the peninsula a few miles from Aberdaron, Felin Uchaf's eco center and cafe is a must visit for anyone who loves nature, food, culture, or all of the above! Stocked using fresh fruit and vegetables from their community garden, the cafe offers delicious cakes, soups, sandwiches, and coffee. It doesn’t get more local and sustainable than this!
Y Maes
Criccieth
One of the newest additions to the villge, Y Maes is a food hub showcasing dishes from local food entrepreneurs offering up a diverse range of cuisine, all under one roof. Check for open times and these vary.
Crust Pizzeria
Abersoch
Tried and tested many many times before, this is the best pizza in all of North Wales. They use the freshest ingredients and import their flour from Italy creating a deliciously authentic pizza. Open everyday from 4:30pm-9:30pm, this is the perfect spot for after a long day at the beach summer or winter.
Caffi Siop Plas
Pwllheli
Caffi Siop Plas is a must visit for a cosy lunch, cake or coffee, rain or shine it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the ambiance and relax, but don’t just take our word for it… Caffi Siop Plas is a great place to visit by e-bike surrounded by stunning, quiet country lanes looking out to the sea. They’re open Thursday - Saturday/Sunday in general but best to check their social media for that week’s opening times. They have a small but delicious specials menu each day that usually has a soup, salad, and toastie/sandwich options, and a great selection of cakes