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CAMBRIAN COASTLINE LLŶN PENINSULA 2017 THE WAY AHEAD

Things are changing in Snowdonia and Coast. We’re now home to a bucket list-full of outdoor activities like ziplining, canyoning, underground adventures and – would you believe? – inland surfing. Zip World

Then there’s our accommodation walks and , vital Celtic identity scene. You can stay at hotels that and strong sense of place. There’s rare leap straight off the pages of interior quality and variety in the things to see design magazines. Or go cool camping and do here, from our charming little or glamping under our Dark Skies, railways to engaging family attractions. stargazing from around the campfire. You’ll barely scratch the surface on a Times change too – by which we mean day trip, so do yourself a favour and that travel experiences and short breaks book in for a few days or weeks. It’s throughout the year are as much part all here in this guide, together with of our portfolio as traditional summer information on the The Way, a seaside holidays. collection of curated touring routes that help you make the most of your visit. Having said all that, let’s not forget the It’s the way to go. bedrock of our appeal – our rugged landscape and sweeping coastline,

Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Roger Thomas, Editor Contents THE WAY 2 Travel 12 The 30 Cycling and information biking 16 All year round 4 At a glance - 32 Festivals and a snapshot of our 18 Attractions events six holiday areas and activities, adventure and 34 In the know – 6 Snowdonia relaxation, further AHEAD National Park food and information accommodation 8 Be Adventure 35 Adverts Smart – safety 26 History and advice heritage

10 Along the coast 28 Walking

Join the conversation and in touch visitsnowdonia.info facebook.com/visitingsnowdonia Keep up to date with what’s happening and twitter.com/visit_snowdonia what’s new by joining us on our social networks. flickr.com/visit_snowdonia Don’t forget, it’s a two-way process. Let us know pinterest.com/visitsnowdonia what you think, and share your thoughts, images instagram.com/visitsnowdonia and videos with others. youtube.com/VisitSnowdonia

Visitsnowdonia Taking care We all want to do what’s best for our precious – and increasingly fragile – environment. A few simple measures can go a long way. Please use public (it’s a real pleasure in this part of the world) and recycle wherever possible, and keep the use of plastics and single-use items to an absolute minimum. Here in Wales we’re committed to making the country the world’s first refill nation, with the initial focus on providing refill stations for free drinking water along the . For more details go to refill.org.uk/refill-wales

ws 20,451 vie Take a look at some of our best shots at instagram.com/visitsnowdonia. To share pics of your visit, use the hashtag #visitwales # ndyourepic #croesocymru #gwladgwlad #snowdonia #eryri #visitsnowdonia #thewalesway #orddcymru #walescoast #arfordircymru #yearofoutdoors #blwyddynawyragored visitsnowdonia.info

1 To reach this part of the world you’ll be travelling with a light footprint. And when you arrive, there are plenty of green alternatives for getting around. For more information go to traveline.cymru

Getting to us By bike Reach bike-friendly Snowdonia By train Mountains and Coast by following Direct services take you to the popular the National Cycle Network coastal destinations from (nationalcyclenetwork.org.uk). Quiet, most parts of Britain. Make inland traffic-calmed and traffic-free routes connections via the Valley Line give good access from the surrounding

Travelling light Travelling (conwyvalleyrailway.co.uk) which area and further afield. runs through the Snowdonia National Park to Betws-y-Coed and Blaenau . Services from the Midlands By air through Shrewsbury and Transfers available from the link up with the Cambrian Coast international gateways of Manchester, Railway thecambrianline.co.uk. For , Birmingham and . National Rail information and enquiries manchesterairport.co.uk visit nationalrail.co.uk liverpoolairport.com birminghamairport.co.uk cardiff-airport.com By coach For National Express information visit nationalexpress.com Getting around

Plug in and charge By car If you’re visiting in an electric vehicle, There’s quick, straightforward access you’ll find plenty of charging points from the North West along the M56 and throughout Snowdonia Mountains and A55. Motorway links with the Midlands Coast. Plug in and recharge everywhere are good too, and the same roads – the from the ’s Cwrt Farm M6, M5 and M1 – also bring Snowdonia at the tip of the Llŷn Peninsula to the Mountains and Coast within easy reach Centre for Alternative Technology near of the South of . Machynlleth. For a full list of charging points visit zap-map.com By sea Irish Ferries (irishferries.com) and Local services Stena Line (stenaline.co.uk) operate Avoid the hassle of bringing regular and high-speed services to a car and travel green on one from Dublin. For southern of our local bus services. The Snowdonia Mountains and Coast, Sherpa is an easy-to-use option that ferry services from Rosslare to allows you to enjoy the spectacular Fishguard and Pembroke Dock sights and attractions of Snowdonia are a handy alternative. Mountains and Coast while someone else does the driving. Head to .llyw.cymru/publictransport Snowdonia Mountains and Coast for info on this and other local buses. 2 Be an explorer Stopping over Snowdonia 360 - Pick up an Explore Wales There are pay-and-display Providing a focus of pass from Transport for car parks where you can discovery for visitors, Wales (tfwrail.wales/ leave your vehicle overnight the Snowdonia 360 ticket-types/explore- in towns like , (snowdonia360.com) is wales) and enjoy four days’ Bangor, , a circular route travel within an eight-day , and through Conwy, period by train and most . While many accept and Gwynedd. A mixture bus operators. For shorter card payments, be aware of coastal, country and stays, grab a North Wales that some are cash only. mountain roads – bringing (tfwrail.wales/ For the latest information together the best of the rovers-and-rangers/ go to (gwynedd.llyw. Snowdonia region. 364 miles north-wales-rover) which cymru/parking) of stunning scenery, things gives you unlimited access to do, places to stay and eat to trains and buses for a along the way. whole day.

I

Conwy Morfa

Tal-y-cafn

Llanfihangel Glyn Myfyr

Llangwm

Cricieth

Llaniestyn

Porth Iago

Porth Oer/ Whistling Sands

Park

Llyn Myngul

Talyllyn Gwobr Traeth Beach Award

Canolfan Groeso Tourist Information Centre visitsnowdonia.info

3 Welcome to Snowdonia Mountains and Coast. Perhaps we should change our name, for our rocky peaks and sandy beaches are just the start of the story. We cover a whopping near-1,000 square miles, a space that embraces not just Snowdonia’s summits but also hidden valleys, misty moors, ancient oakwoods, dreamy estuaries, secluded coves, forest- fringed lakes and rushing rivers.

The outdoor activities and experiences And it’s all here, ready to go, on tap are equally varied. There are throughout the year. Your season little trains and big castles, adrenaline ticket lasts 12 months, taking in sports and wish-list walking trails, everything from the green shoots arty galleries and an appetizing food of spring to cosy, cossetting winter scene. Not forgetting the green appeal breaks. We don’t expect you to take all Six in the mix of the Snowdonia National Park and of this in in one gulp. To ease you into Llŷn Peninsula, a designated ‘Area of what’s on offer we’ve split our region Outstanding Natural Beauty’. into six areas.

Criccieth, Southern Porthmadog and the A -crowned Snowdonia Cambrian Coastline More mountains – plus Oakwoods, beaches and lakes and forests a shot of adrenaline Along with the Llŷn Peninsula, We have our own north/ There’s coast – the Cardigan Bay puts the south divide. Southern southern shores of the ‘coast’ into Snowdonia Snowdonia still has Llŷn Peninsula and the Mountains and Coast. mountains – lots of hauntingly beautiful Mountains meet the them – but they are Dwyryd Estuary. And sea all along this lovely greener and rounder there’s country – lots shoreline – but most than those up north. of it, including chunks memorably at two Cader Idris dominates of mountain and outstandingly beautiful the scene, rearing the wooded Vale of estuaries, Mawddach its misty head above Ffestiniog. So you’re and Dyfi (part of the Dolgellau, while further not short of scenery. environmentally east the Arans, This part of Wales is outstanding UNESCO and Berwyns rise above especially rich in history, Reserve). Bala and Llyn Tegid, heritage and culture. Other highlights include Wales’s largest natural Don’t miss the unique mighty World Heritage lake. There are forests Italianate village of Site-designated Harlech too – most famously, and Blaenau Castle, Barmouth (come the Coed y Brenin Forest Ffestiniog, the old for the seaside – and Park, known far and capital reborn as an spectacular sunsets), wide for its world-class internationally acclaimed picturesque Aberdyfi . and little railways at

Snowdonia Mountains and Coast activity centre. and . 4 Llyn Mwyngil, Tal-y-Llyn

Conwy Valley and Bangor, Caernarfon, Llŷn Peninsula Hiraethog and the Landscapes, seascapes History, wooded hills Villages of Snowdonia and nature reserves and heather moors Tops for mountains, castles and activities It’s ‘Snowdon’s arm’, a What a difference a few wildly beautiful peninsula miles can make. The green, Mister Big in these parts that wraps you in a strong fertile Conwy Valley is is – guess? – Yr Wyddfa/ embrace. Llŷn’s mix of flanked on the west by thick Snowdon, the highest culture and heritage, forests. Cross to the east mountain in Wales and traditional farmsteads and and you’ll enter Hiraethog England. But it’s by no little ports, beaches, bays (also called the means the only attraction. and sea-cliffs is quite unlike Moors), a vast expanse There are mountain lakes anything else you’ll find of heather moorland set and wooded valleys too, in Wales – or elsewhere, beneath big skies that’s and a coastline of big for that matter. Little just the place to bring out beaches and sheltered wonder, then, that the the explorer in you. All in straits. Man-made places coast is a protected ‘Area all, this is an area of great also make it into the big of Outstanding Natural variety, with the mountain league, especially world- Beauty’. Walk it by following village of at one famous . the Llŷn Coastal Path. end and the historic walled And attractions like Zip town of Conwy at the other. World Penrhyn Quarry have In between you’ll find helped bring Snowdonia Betws-y-Coed, a buzzing Mountains and Coast country resort, and the worldwide fame as an world’s first inland surfing all-year activity hot spot.

lagoon at Adventure Parc visitsnowdonia.info Snowdonia, . 5 With 823 square miles of skyscraping peaks, deep wooded valleys, rolling moors, craggy coastline and soft, sandy beaches, the Snowdonia National Park is one of the world’s most alluring places. For more information on all the walks and activities listed below, visit snowdonia.gov.wales.

Summit special Mighty, mist-shrouded Snowdon is one of the Park’s headline stars and the busiest. It’s the tallest peak in England and Wales (and the place where Sir Edmund Hillary and his team trained to conquer Everest). But Snowdon is just one of 14 summits in the Park measuring more than 3,000ft/914m. It’s well worth spreading your wings and getting off the beaten to explore places like boulder-strewn in the range and the jagged rocky outcrops of . Make sure you’re ready to enjoy our mountains safely by checking the information on pages 8/9 before you head out.

The beautiful south Another high-altitude alternative to the crowds on Snowdon is a

Snowdonia National Park walk up Cader Idris. Looming above Dolgellau in the south of the Park, this mountain’s moody silhouette cuts an unmistakable sight on the skyline. Take the shorter, steeper Path which runs through the Cader Idris National Nature Reserve, or follow the longer and gentler Llanfihangel y Pennant Path with its views of the Dysynni Valley and ruins of , a gnarled, atmospheric native Welsh castle.

Take it easy You don’t have to tackle lung-busting ascents to enjoy getting out and about in the Snowdonia National Park. Choose from a wide selection of leisurely walks on flat and easy terrain, ranging from a two-mile stroll through wooded Cwm Penamnen near to an 18-mile network of interlinked paths criss-crossing Dyffryn ’s landscape of oak forest and lakes. Short, ‘accessible for all’ walks suitable for wheelchair users and prams are also plentiful. Stroll a section of the nine-mile between Barmouth and Dolgellau (also a popular route for gentle bike rides). Or follow the boardwalk through woodland on the shores of , set amongst steep slopes between and Caernarfon. You’ll find a full list of leisurely and accessible walks on the National Park website snowdonia.gov.wales Snowdonia Mountains and Coast

6 The National Park by numbers Highest point: Snowdon’s 3,560ft/1,085m Longest beach: 4.35-mile summit , near 37 miles of coast 4 million visitors every year 434 miles of rivers 237 square miles of Sites of 1,498 miles of footpaths Special Scientific Interest Largest natural lake: Llyn Largest moorland: Y Tegid, Bala, covering above Ffestiniog measuring 3.95 square miles 55 square miles

Lights out Even when the sun goes down there’s still plenty to see in Snowdonia. Thanks to its wide-open spaces and low levels of light pollution, the National Park is a designated International Dark Sky Reserve. One of only three in the UK (and just 13 worldwide) it’s the ideal place for stellar stargazing. On a cloudless night you’ll be treated to crystal clear celestial panoramas of twinkling constellations, the Milky Way and nebulas shimmering in the infinity of space. Llŷn’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is also hoping to be designated, so keep checking our website for the latest updates.

Delving deeper Ask the experts Learn more about Snowdonia at Plas Take the stress out of choosing where to walk Tan y Bwlch, the National Park’s study in the Snowdonia National Park. Every month centre. This handsome country house, set one of the Park Wardens shares a favourite amongst beautiful gardens and grounds route in the ‘Walk of the Month’ section of the near Maentwrog, runs residential courses Park website. You’ll find walks for all abilities, embracing all aspects of the Park, from from mountain hikes to shady woodland wildlife to walking, art and crafts to history strolls, with lots of information on animal and and industrial heritage. The house and plant life to watch out for at different times of gardens are open all year and the Dwyryd the year. tea room is open from Easter to October. visitsnowdonia.info

7 adventuresmart.co.uk

We all love hills and mountains. They’re beautiful to look at and exhilarating to explore on foot. But they can also present unexpected challenges and dangers. Be fully prepared for the rugged terrain and changing conditions in Snowdonia Mountains and Coast. Ask yourself three questions before you set off: • Am I confident that I have theKNOWLEDGE and SKILLS for the day? • Do I know what the WEATHER will be like? • Do I have the right GEAR? Be Adventure Smart Be Adventure Snowdonia Mountains and Coast

8 Glyder Fawr Be Adventure Smart Make plans for an enjoyable and safe day out in the hills and mountains by:

Checking the weather forecast and ground conditions on metoffice.gov.uk. Remember to check conditions for different points on your route. If the weather worsens or if conditions are beyond your capabilities it’s OK to turn back.

Knowing your limits and where you’re going. It’s okay to challenge yourself but be conscious of the experience and fitness levels of the whole group. Choose a route that suits everyone in your group. And don’t get stuck in the dark – allow enough time to get back down in good light conditions.

Carrying the right gear, including a map, compass, torch, whistle, small first-aid kit, mobile phone and food and drink.

Staying warm and dry. Wear walking boots, carry insulating layers, gloves, hat and waterproofs. Don’t forget the sun hat and sunscreen on a warm summer’s day.

Letting the experts show you the way. If you’re not experienced or don’t know the area consider joining a guided walk or signing up for a course.

Find out about skills courses at adventuresmart.uk/develop-your-skills/

Be sure to: • Whether you are heading to the • Always check metoffice.gov.uk mountains or out on the water go for up-to-date weather reports and to adventuresmart.uk for the snowdon.live for the latest readings information you need to make your from the weather station on the good day better! summit of Snowdon

• Follow the Countryside Code found at naturalresources.wales visitsnowdonia.info

9 Here’s one revealing fact: it’s just 10 miles from the top of Snowdon to the sea. Here’s another: our coastline stretches for around 200 miles. So when we call ourselves Snowdonia Mountains and Coast, the watery, sandy bit is just as important as all those peaks, forests and moors. Sea here Sandhopping We have over 35 beaches. Here’s a quick run-down, from north to south, of some of our coastal highlights:

• - long, sandy • Morfa Bychan (Black Rock beach with sailing club and Sands) - at over 1½ miles long this attractive promenade big beach’s golden sands, rock pools and make it a popular spot • - fun, family- for families friendly seaside village with large sandy beach. The nearby Traeth • Harlech - untouched sandy beach, Lafan Nature Reserve is a great backed by dunes and theatrically place for birdwatching overlooked by • , near Caernarfon • Shell Island, Llanbedr - sand, - enormous beach with widescreen dunes and, of course, shells views to match. Great for walkers, bustling windsurfers and power kiters • Barmouth/Abermaw - resort town that boasts a huge • - two miles of sweeping sandy beach, plus views over the sands, scooped out of the coastline mountains and Mawddach Estuary in perfect crescents. The impossibly popular surfing beach with pretty National Trust village of • Tywyn - almost five miles of sand, and also is perfect too a good place to spot and • Porth Oer, near porpoises - a true one-of-a-kind, with • Aberdyfi -dramatically located ‘Whistling Sands’ that really at the mouth of the Dyfi Estuary, do squeak underfoot this big sandy beach is great for • Aberdaron - broad sandy beach on windsurfing and wildlife spotting Llŷn’s ‘land’s end’, sheltered between two spectacular headlands Award-winning beaches • - one of our most For the latest information on our popular resorts. A big hit with Blue Flag and Seaside Award-winning families, watersports enthusiasts, beaches go to visitsnowdonia.info/ shoppers and people watchers beaches-and-coastline • South Beach (Marian- y-De) - a three-mile curve of sand and shingle, backed by rolling dunes Snowdonia Mountains and Coast

10

Porth Oer

Aberdaron

Abersoch

Llŷn and the Cambrian Coast Wild things Jutting into the sea like an outstretched arm, Much of our seashore is protected as National the Llŷn Peninsula is a sanctuary of Celtic Parkland, Heritage Coast, and ‘Area of culture, wildlife and pristine coastal beauty. Outstanding Natural Beauty’. As you’d expect, This protected landscape of historic interest, wildlife thrives here – go -spotting in Special Area of Conservation and Heritage Cardigan Bay, or catch the boat to Ynys Enlli/ Coast is home to 90 miles of secluded bays, , a National Nature Reserve rocky headlands and friendly little resorts. with an international reputation for its wealth And the beauty goes on and on further of wildlife and spectacular seabird colonies, south, on the Cambrian Coastline’s beaches, including Manx shearwaters. headlands and mountain-backed estuaries, the inspiration of painters and poets. Park the car Explore our coastline by train or bus. It’s Sealicious easy. Local bus services take you almost Local menus feature catch-of-the-day everywhere. And for the ultimate ‘train with a seafood. Tuck into sealicious lobster, crab view’ with between-station walking ‘trailways’ and scallops caught in Llŷn’s clear waters, en route, ride the Cambrian Coast line that fresh sole or bass landed by local boats, or travels along Cardigan Bay from that famous Conwy speciality – rich-tasting to Pwllheli. Or catch the ‘little trains’ that run mussels sustainably hand-raked from their to and Caernarfon from natural home on the seabed, a centuries-old Porthmadog. industry (to find out more go to the Mussel Museum on the quayside). Be Adventure Smart Stay safe on or near the water with rnli.org/safety. Don’t get cut off by the tide

check the tide times with tidetimes.org.uk visitsnowdonia.info

11 12 Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Go The Wales Way

Llyn Gwynant If you’re looking for inspiration for your trip to Snowdonia Mountains and Coast, check out The Wales Way. This family of three touring routes – The Coastal Way, The North Wales Way and The – lead you along the seashore, across castle country and through our mountainous heartland. Along the way, there are loops and links so you can create your own Wales Way adventure. Here’s our contribution to three memorable journeys. visitsnowdonia.info

13 The way to go

We’ve barely scratched the surface of things to see and do along The Wales Way. For more ideas – plus some carefully curated itineraries – head to visitsnowdonia.info/wales-way

The North Wales Way The Coastal Way The Cambrian Way

The Coastal Way

Where it goes Stretching from Aberdaron at the western extreme of the Llŷn Peninsula to St Davids in , the Coastal Way takes in the unbroken 180-mile

Go The Wales Way Wales Go The sweep of blue, dolphin-friendly Cardigan Bay.

Coastal Way highlights in Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Take a boat trip out to mystical, magical Bardsey, just off Llŷn’s tip. In the words of poet RS Thomas there was a ‘resurrection/of nature’ at this ‘green/ island’ with its ‘anointed air’. Known as the ‘Isle of 20,000 saints’ thanks to its wealth of religious sites, it’s also a prolific nature reserve that’s home to 310 different species of bird.

There’s amazing art at Oriel Plas Glyn-y- Weddw, a Gothic mansion in surrounded by 12 acres of glorious gardens, and historical drama at battle- scarred Castle and the mighty towers of Harlech Castle (overlooking Royal St David’s, one of the UK’s best links golf courses). You’ll find more history at Dinas Oleu, a wild hillside above the seaside town of Barmouth

where the National Trust was born. Criccieth Snowdonia Mountains and Coast

14 The North Wales Way

Where it goes Following the old trading route along the coast from into Anglesey, the 75-mile North Wales Way features lively resort towns, soaring World Heritage Sites and plenty of jumping-off points for inland exploration.

North Wales Way highlights in Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Explore the opulent interiors of Bangor’s National Trust , a fantastical fortress built by the wealthy Pennant family in the early 1800s, then lose yourself amid the foliage of the jungle-like Bog Garden in its grounds. For a little sea and sand, take your buckets and spades to fun, family- friendly Llanfairfechan beach. Be sure to bring your binoculars too – nearby Traeth

Caernarfon Lafan Nature Reserve is a top spot for birdwatching. For culture trippers there’s art See rock star castles at Caernarfon and and history at STORIEL and music, theatre Conwy – both World Heritage Sites. For an and cinema at Pontio, both in Bangor. urban stroll with a difference take a tour along the top of Conwy’s ancient town walls, which stretch an unbroken ¾ miles around the huddled medieval centre.

The Cambrian Way

Where it goes Tracking Wales’s mountainous spine from to Cardiff, the 185-mile Cambrian Way winds through the peaks of both the Snowdonia and Beacons National Parks.

Cambrian Way highlights in Snowdonia Mountains and Coast Head underground at Blaenau Ffestiniog . This little farmhouse, once the to explore the inky depths of Llechwedd’s home of poet who died in World historic slate mines. You can also ‘Bounce War One, still houses the famous Black Chair Below’ on a huge subterranean trampoline he was posthumously awarded at the 1917 before flying high at Europe’s largest zip National . zone. Go off-grid with a walk in Crawcwellt, a moody expanse of wilderness at the foot of the Rhinog mountains where herds of wild ponies roam.

Adrenaline junkies can ride waves and zip lines at in the Conwy Valley, or tackle the bone-shaking trails at mountain bike mecca Coed y Brenin Forest Park. For a peek into Welsh culture and history, visit Yr Ysgwrn near Coed y Brenin visitsnowdonia.info

15 Season tickets Mawddach Estuary

Choose your season – any one will do, for they’re all equally appealing. You might be looking for the winter warmth of a country pub, or the green shoots of spring in the Vale of Conwy. Or sun, sand and sea for your summer holiday, or pure autumn gold along the Mawddach Estuary.

Snowdonia Mountains and Coast has a year-round appeal. To get you in the mood, here we introduce you to a handful of many things to see and do whatever the weather, whatever the season. For the full picture take a look at the following pages 18/25.

Spring and summer The lambs are out. The fields are green. Go underneath the arches. There’s a freshness in our forests, and Actually, make that arch – the Laburnum your options are multiplying by the Arch at beautiful in the minute as the days get longer. And Conwy Valley. It’s at its best in late May, along the coast we’re revving up for a when the drooping yellow blossoms busy summer when our beaches – over create a shining 180ft/55m that 35, strung out along a 200-mile shore serves as the perfect stepping stone – really come into their own. It makes from spring into summer. you want to get up and go. To start you off, here are a few ideas. Snowdonia Mountains and Coast

16 Catch the train, Fly by wire. Curl up, chill out. take a walk. You may have noticed that in Soak up the warmth of a Jump on to the Cambrian recent years we’ve become log fire in a cosy country Coast Railway – one of famous for our zip lines pub. Book into a spa and Britain’s most scenic – then and outdoor adventures. wellness centre beside the hop off for a between- Bethesda boasts the world’s sea (The Quay at station ‘trailways’ walk. fastest zip line (at 100mph, or Portmeirion’s Mermaid Or, from the UK’s ’20 Best no less). It was so successful Spa, for example) or in the Coastal Walks’ highlighted in that there are now two more heart of the country (Betws- The Times, walk 6¾ miles of ‘Zip World’ sites at Betws-y- y-Coed’s Waterloo Hotel is the wonderful Wales Coastal Coed and Blaenau Ffestiniog. another good choice). Path between Harlech and train stations. Autumn and winter There’s no need to hunker down in your own bunker when the nights draw in. Snowdonia Mountains and Coast is buzzing with activities and experiences throughout the year. Book into a cosy hotel, sit by a roaring fire, blow your socks off on a bracing winter walk, and feed body and soul on tasty food, Greenwood Family Park soothing spa treatments and great entertainment. Adventure Parc Snowdonia Park (or parc) it. So why not… The kids will love Ride the waves. GreenWood Family Park Go down to the woods. Adventure Parc Snowdonia near Caernarfon. It has won You’re sure for a big in the Conwy Valley is home nearly every award in the surprise, for in addition to to the world’s first inland book, and on the strength walking paths lit by fiery surfing lagoon, where of its clever, eco-friendly autumn colours you’ll find the perfect waves arrive attractions, is ‘one of the some of the best mountain like clockwork whatever greenest theme parks in the biking trails in the world the weather. If that’s not world’. Glasfryn Parc near (not to mention winter trail enough there’s also all Pwllheli is also packed with running – at night time). manner of adrenaline activities for all the family. indoor and outdoor Immerse yourself in our activities on tap. Count castles. arts scene. There are 641 in Wales and Festivals, theatre, art and Become a star trekker. – if we may be so bold – we crafts, galleries, museums… Our Dark Skies are at their reckon we have some of Snowdonia Mountains and inkiest and revealing in the best here in Snowdonia Coast has a thriving cultural autumn and winter. We’re Mountains and Coast: three scene that, if anything, seems one of the world’s few World Heritage Sites, to to notch up a gear in the so- Dark Sky Reserves so be precise, at Caernarfon, called ‘quieter’ months. you’ll see stars and peer Conwy and Harlech. into deep space. visitsnowdonia.info

17 The following eight pages are dedicated to the adventures, activities and attractions you’ll find in Snowdonia Mountains and Coast. We give you the lowdown on everything from wellbeing to watersports, little trains to large castles, food to art and crafts. We’ll spring a few surprises along the way, with news of things like the fastest zip line in the world and the UK’s deepest cavern, the TV-star village that thinks it’s from and the theme park that’s eco-friendly and Our A-List family-friendly.

WE’RE ON YOUR WAVELENGTH

We are sailing Our rivers, lakes and seas are awash with watersports. You can go sailing or paddleboarding, kayaking or surfing. Sailing fans head for the open seas or sheltered from havens, harbours, marinas and slipways all along the coast. The Plas Menai National Outdoor Centre on the shores of the Strait is one of many places offering multi-activities, including sailing, windsurfing and kayaking. Pwllheli, at the gateway to some of the UK’s finest sailing waters, is home to Hafan Pwllheli, a superb 400-berth marina, and Plas Heli, the Welsh National Sailing Academy and Events Centre. Snowdonia Mountains and Coast

18 Portmeirion Fresh (and white) water Inland, our lakes and rivers also overflow with aquatic action. Float your boat on the UK’s highest sailing venue at Llyn Brenig, one of Wales’s largest areas of inland water 1,200ft/365m up on the . Bala’s Llyn Tegid, the biggest natural lake in Wales, is a thriving watersports centre. It’s close to the River Tryweryn, a torrent that guarantees white-water (and white-knuckle) rafting thrills at the National White Water Centre, where anyone who doesn’t mind getting wet can have a go. Go kayaking on beautiful Llyn Gwynant near Beddgelert or at Llanberis. Other lakes popular for watersports include Llynnau Mymbyr near Capel Curig and , hidden away in the , the only lake in Snowdonia River Tryweryn used for power boating and water skiing.

Surf’s up Adventure Parc Snowdonia in the green Conwy Valley boasts the world’s first inland surfing lagoon, which produces better and more frequent waves than any of Britain’s beaches. Having said that, when conditions are right the surfing is pretty awesome on the Llŷn Peninsula at places like Porth Neigwl (its alternative name, Hell’s Mouth, says it all). For a great day’s wakeboarding go to Glasfryn Wake Parc, an innovative attraction suitable for beginners and seasoned pros where everything is laid on for you. If you fancy an adrenaline buzz without getting wet – and the rare experience of whizzing under the Britannia Bridge and ’s – then take a ride

Hell’s Mouth on a RIB powerboat along the Menai Strait.

ONLINE HORSES FOR COURSES Go sea angling from our shores and deep- Everyone from absolute beginners to experts sea boats. Or head inland for game fishing are welcomed at our riding and trekking on rivers and lakes (Llyn Myngul near centres. The terrain is pretty varied too. , for example, has superb brown Explore the wooded bridlepaths of the lovely trout fishing). There’s good coarse fishing too Vale of Ffestiniog or gallop along the beach on at places like Llyn Trawsfynydd, which has the southern shores of the Llŷn Peninsula. excellent facilities for anglers. TRAILFINDING GOLF AS IT SHOULD BE Coed y Brenin Forest Park near Dolgellau That’s the style of golf on offer here in Wales is famous for its mountain biking. But did – golf that’s played in the true spirit of the you know that it’s also home to the UK’s game on quality courses renowned for their first bespoke trail running centre? There’s a welcome and friendliness. Our mix of golfing network of five waymarked trails suitable for venues suits all abilities and includes three of novices and experienced runners ranging the UK’s top 100 clubs. Tee off from the beach from one to over 13 miles, all set amongst at Nefyn and Aberdyfi, or play against the a beautiful landscape of rivers, woods and backdrop of Harlech Castle at Royal St David’s. moors. There’s also a trail running store and Conwy Golf Club, venue of the 2020 Curtis busy year-round events programme that Cup, is also well worth a visit. includes endurance marathons and night runs. visitsnowdonia.info SEE OVERLEAF FOR MORE A-LIST IDEAS > 19 FAMILY ATTRACTIONS

Small is beautiful We’re the world capital of narrow- gauge railways. The Snowdon does what it says on the tin, taking you to the top of the highest peak in Wales and England. Close by there’s the idyllic . For Britain’s longest hop on the 25-mile Our A-List Welsh Highland from Caernarfon to Porthmadog – then go even further on its sister line, the classic , all the way to Blaenau The Railway also goes back a Ffestiniog. long way, with origins dating from the 1850s. And the best way by far to enjoy Also in Porthmadog is the charming the views across the water in Bala is on Welsh Highland Heritage Railway, while the Railway. down the coast there’s tiny Fairbourne (our smallest, with a gauge of just 12¼ins). You’ll find the world’s first preserved railway – the Talyllyn – at . A deserved winner of North Wales’s ‘Best Tourism Business of the Year’, its museum has a section devoted to the Reverend WV Awdry, creator of Thomas the Tank Engine. Talyllyn

Just the ticket Glasfryn Parc near Pwllheli is packed with activities, including go karting, ten-pin bowling, wakeboarding, kayaking. GreenWood Family Park near Caernarfon is one very green attraction, winner of many awards for its eco credentials. Ride the world’s first eco- friendly people-powered rollercoaster and Solar Splash, the UK’s first solar powered ride. Also near Caernarfon King Arthur’s Labyrinth there’s Gypsy Wood Family Park, which combines the magic of fairies with the charm of animals. You’re in a cave, on a boat at King ‘Wales lends itself so well to Arthur’s Labyrinth, Corris, floating past many activities and adventures. tableaux and sound-and-light shows Snowdon is an international that bring Arthurian legend to life. At icon and encapsulates the spirit Caernarfon, Yr Hwylfan/The Fun Centre of Wales and the Welsh people.’ is North-’s biggest indoor adventure play centre. Bear Grylls Snowdonia Mountains and Coast

20 A REALLY BIG ADVENTURE Adrenaline runs in our veins. It all started in Penrhyn Quarry with the bold plan of installing a zip line. Not any old zip line, mind you, but the fastest (think 100mph) in the world. They haven’t looked back since. The company – Zip World – now has three sites, each very different. In addition to the original near Bethesda there’s Zip World Titan at Blaenau Ffestiniog (where you can Zip World Slate Caverns also ‘Bounce Below’ on a giant underground trampoline) and Zip World Fforest at leafy WILD IN THE COUNTRY Betws-y-Coed. Pack your binoculars, for they’re sure to be At Go Below Underground Adventures, also kept busy when you visit our mountains, near Betws-y-Coed, you can abseil down woods, estuaries and shores, habitats rich to the deepest point in the UK (and – if in birdlife. The RSPB Conwy Reserve, for you haven’t had enough zippy experiences example, is a ‘wildlife oasis on the edge already – whizz along a subterranean zip of Snowdonia’ whose star species include line). Adventure Parc Snowdonia in the lapwing, sedge warbler and shelduck. But our Conwy Valley, which began life as Surf greatest feathery stars are to be found near Snowdonia, now offers all kinds of activities, Beddgelert at Bywyd Gwyllt Wildlife, including an exciting indoor adventure where incredibly rare ospreys can be viewed course, high-wire challenges and (you’ve by telescope and live remote coverage. guessed it) a zip line over the surfing lagoon.

ARTS ALIVE You’ve only got to look at the force-of-nature The cultural programme at Pontio, Bangor paintings by great Welsh artist Sir Kyffin University’s Arts and Innovation Centre, Williams to see how this dramatic part of embraces theatre, cinema, comedy and the world inspires creativity in art and crafts, music. In Caernarfon, Galeri combines theatre and music. Wherever you travel you’ll art spaces with cinema, workshops and come across galleries, studios, workshops and performances. To see how local elements like performance spaces. wool and slate become fertile raw materials fostering creativity, visit Woollen Mill A-listers include STORIEL in Bangor and the where wool is converted into colourful Welsh Royal Cambrian Academy in Conwy (both tapestry, and Inigo Jones Slate Workshops at of which hold changing art exhibitions), and Penygroes, in business for over 150 years. Llanbedrog’s Oriel Plas Glyn-y-Weddw, a stunning space dedicated to contemporary Studios at the Corris Crafts Centre specialise art and outdoor theatre performances. in a range of hand-made crafts. At Parc Glynllifon near Caernarfon there’s more creativity and individual skill on display at a cluster of craft workshops.

Arts online For more on our arts scene visit creativegwynedd.com. And check out the Helfa Gelf Arts Trail at helfagelf.co.uk Oriel Plas Glyn-y-Weddw visitsnowdonia.info SEE OVERLEAF FOR MORE A-LIST IDEAS > 21 Our A-List Pant Du Vineyard and Orchard

FOOD AND THE FEELGOOD FACTOR Good food, wellbeing, comfy accommodation, soothing spas… they’re things that can be enjoyed throughout the year. In fact, we’d go as far as to say that a meal beside a crackling fire after a walk in the woods is an experience tailor-made for spring or autumn. And how better to lift the winter gloom than a reviving spa break beside the sea or in the heart of the country?

EAT Lonely Planet reckons that ‘North even local wine, gin and beer. It’s a Wales has also become a haunt of bountiful local larder used by chefs in-the-know foodies’. It’s not just and cooks to produce everything polished cuisine and fine dining, we from hearty, honest-to-goodness hasten to add (though it’s very much simple fare to imaginative, precisely on the menu at ritzy country and flavoured dishes. coastal restaurants and hotels). For a more laid-back dining experience you’re also served with good food cooked with care and passion in homely cafés, bistros and inns. No surprise, really, with such inspirational local produce on the doorstep like Welsh Black beef and lamb (mountain and the tender saltmarsh variety), super-fresh seafood straight from the fishing Dylan’s Criccieth Snowdonia Mountains and Coast boat, artisan farmhouse cheeses …

22 DRINK Distillery near Bangor and Dyfi Distillery in Corris produce award-winning gins made from locally foraged botanicals. There’s wine too, from Pant Du Vineyard and Orchard near Penygroes, and craft beers from Porthmadog’s Purple Moose Brewery (another award winner) and Cwrw Llŷn, Nefyn.

SLEEP Imagination, artistry and flair have transformed our entire hospitality scene. Take accommodation. Nowadays, you can stay at boutique B&Bs, chic hotels and luxury self-catering that are bang on-trend, with wellness and spa breaks thrown in for good measure. ‘Wales is way ahead of the UK when it comes to sustainable eco-living,’ reckons The Sunday Times. So expect to find offbeat, quirky places that are redefining the old notion of holiday accommodation. How about a Mongolian yurt, shepherd’s hut, eco-retreat, hand-crafted cabin in the woods or beach lodge? All with mod cons, of course. Or a glamping lodge beside an inland surfing lagoon or slate cavern?

Going for gold Welsh Black beef, saltmarsh Within these walls. Enjoy In Snowdonia Mountains lamb and seafood (plus some time on the town and Coast more than 100 fresh produce grown in the at the Castle Hotel, snug different properties have kitchen garden), safe in the within Conwy’s medieval won the prestigious Gold knowledge you won’t need to walls. Originally a coaching Award from Visit Wales. And travel far to get to bed. inn, it’s been taking in guests they really are different, for centuries (including a certain 13-year-old Princess ranging from cosy B&Bs to On the farm. If you’re Victoria, who visited in grand country house hotels. looking to get away from it 1832). Though it’s changed Take a look at our website to all, Tyddyn Mawr is a good quite a bit since those days, see what’s on offer. To give choice. Nestled at the foot of this warm and welcoming you a taste here’s the editor’s Cader Idris near Dolgellau, townhouse hotel is still fit for choice of a cross-section. this 18th-century farmhouse a Queen. turned luxury guest house A very big house in is a tranquil escape ideal for birdwatchers, nature-lovers, the country. With its Comfortable and photographers or anyone in wood-panelled halls and convivial. Warm, search of tranquillity. elegant rooms (some with welcoming and supremely romantic four-poster beds), comfortable, Tŷ’n Rhos is Bron Eifion is a country Boutique in Bala. Plas the perfect base from which to explore the northern half house hotel with plenty of yn Dre is an historic of Snowdonia Mountains old-world charm. Despite building on Bala’s High and Coast. Scenically located its peaceful location amid Street. There’s nothing on a hillside between five acres of immaculately ancient or creaky about Caernarfon and Bangor tended gardens, it’s only a the accommodation, with far-reaching views, short walk to the village of which cleverly balances this country house boasts Criccieth (and the beach). old with new, traditional individually styled bedrooms, with contemporary. As well a spacious conservatory and as luxury rooms you’ll Get a taste of this. Plas fine dining restaurant. enjoy tasty food with the Bodegroes, a restaurant accent on fresh, locally with rooms near Pwllheli on sourced produce. the Llŷn Peninsula, has been a foodie mecca for more than 30 years. Feast on locally sourced ingredients like visitsnowdonia.info SEE OVERLEAF FOR MORE A-LIST IDEAS > 23 SHOP Some say it’s the ultimate therapy – even better than a spa break. We’ll leave that for you to decide. But we can certainly tempt you with a very special choice of shopping experiences.

Our shopping scene prizes the personal over the pre-packaged, the hand-made over the mass-produced. Of course, you’ll find the usual high street names, but they are just a small part of our unique retail landscape. Our key selling point is a huge stock of friendly, independent businesses offering one-of-a-kind items created in and inspired by our spectacular surroundings. Here are just a few highlights to whet your appetite. Our A-List

In the food mood? Then Bodnant Welsh Food in the Conwy Valley is the place to go for the tasty combo of shopping and eating. It showcases the very best Welsh artisan produce, from organic veg to cheeses, mountain lamb to delicious treats. There’s also the Furnace restaurant (serving everything from wood-fired pizzas to freshly baked scones) and the Hayloft for superb Sunday lunches.

The long (and the short) of it. Good shopping hot spots include Bangor (its high street is the longest in Wales), Betws-y-Coed, Caernarfon, Conwy, Llanberis, Porthmadog and Pwllheli. Market forces. Local produce markets are held at Bethesda, Conwy, Dolgellau and Porthmadog (ask locally for details). Perfect pottery. The fantasy Market days take place at Barmouth on village of Portmeirion is a magical Thursday (and Sunday, summer only); shopping location, with a choice of chic Caernarfon on Saturday (and Monday boutiques, including a Portmeirion May–September); on Tuesday; Pottery outlet. Porthmadog on Friday; Pwllheli on Wednesday; and Tywyn on Monday (summer only). Outdoor types. Adventure hub Betws-y-Coed is the place for outdoor gear and accessories. There’s also an Buy local. Look out impressive collection of independent for this logo when craft and gift stores. It’s great for you’re out and about Christmas shopping too. There’s also – it means that the plenty of choice at Llanberis the village shop has signed up at the foot of Snowdon. to the Buy Local Gwynedd campaign. You’ll be helping yourself find something distinctive and special – and also helping the local . Snowdonia Mountains and Coast

24 HOME AND AWAY Wales is a patchwork of places, each of which has its Speak own strong ‘sense of place’. We even have words for it in Welsh like hiraeth and cynefin which allude to the deep- up rooted spirit of a location and the attachment it inspires. Snowdonia Mountains and Coast has its own spirit, which emanates from it rocky, volcanic mountains, bays, beaches and estuaries. That’s why it has such a strong appeal to the people of Wales as well as the many visitors it welcomes from the rest of Britain and overseas. With a large proportion of Snowdonia Mountains and Coast’s population speaking Welsh as their first language, our mother tongue is a huge part of our culture. It’s an everyday working language which you’ll hear spoken in the streets and see on signs everywhere. It can be a bit tongue twisting, but – like any language – you can pick up the basics with a THE PERSONAL TOUCH tiny bit of perseverance. Here are a few greetings to Build your own perfect trip to Snowdonia start you off. Learn more at Mountains and Coast by using the My National Guide Book on our website. If you see and something you like on the site, whether it’s Heritage Centre. one of our award-winning attractions, a tempting restaurant or welcoming place to stay, just click the My Guide Book button to add it to your croeso personal itinerary. It’s the easy way to keep track of the hundreds of things to see and do across the region. –welcome helo AND FINALLY… It’s always good to get a second opinion. Lonely Planet –hello has been very complimentary about us on a number of occasions. For example, they’ve rated Snowdon, , diolch Portmeirion and the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways highly within their ‘Ultimate UK Travelist of Top –thanks 500 Experiences’.

The ‘views are sublime’ from Snowdon’s summit, while iechyd da! triangular Tryfan ‘ranks among Britain’s most distinctive peaks’. Italianate Portmeirion is a ‘surreal settlement –cheers! … lived in by no one but visited by thousands’. Not surprisingly, it’s a TV star, appearing as the suitably nos da otherworldly setting for the cult 1960s TV series (and featured in ITV Cymru Wales’s The Village). –good night And for mountain biking, Coed y Brenin ‘tops the list of pedal-powered adrenaline rushes’.. visitsnowdonia.info

25 We have a compelling tale to tell. Its chapters feature towering castles and deep, dark mines, and an unmistakably Welsh culture that’s rooted in bygone times but looks to the future. It’s safe to say that the past is alive and well in Snowdonia Mountains and Coast.

Made of stone Can you dig it? Castles dot our coast and Castles aren’t our only rock stars. History lesson countryside. Fortresses at You can’t tell Snowdonia’s story Caernarfon, Conwy and Harlech, without mentioning slate, once put up by King Edward I in the 13th quarried here in enormous century, are so impressive that quantities. Venture into huge they’ve been designated World underground caverns created by Heritage Sites. While these big slate mining at Corris, Llanfair and hitters often grab the headlines, Llechwedd (where you can also tour castles like weatherbeaten the rubble-strewn quarries on the Criccieth – perched in a prime surface in a rugged 4x4 truck). At strategic spot above Cardigan near Beddgelert Bay – come with their own equally an atmospheric self-guided audio- significant stories of conquest and visual tour takes you back to the conflict. world of the Victorian copper miner. History also lives on at the in Llanberis, where buildings and workshops have been preserved as if the last shift had just clocked off. Inigo Jones Slateworks near Caernarfon (founded in 1861) still fashions slate into everything from clocks to cake stands. And let’s not forget our native Slate heritage and high-tech come castles, built by Wales’s very own together at Electric Mountain – also Princes of Gwynedd, which make up in Llanberis – where you can take an in atmosphere what they may lack awesome tour of a massive hydro- in stature. Dolbadarn, for example, electric plant buried inside a slate a lonely watch over the waters mountain. of Llyn Padarn and the , while Castell y Bere, strung We’re so proud of our slate along a jagged rocky outcrop, guards landscape, and the contribution an ancient, forgotten route through the industry made to engineering, the foothills of Cader Idris. For more transport, technology and culture on our castles visit .gov.wales across the world. Keep up-to-date and snowdoniaheritage.info with our bid for UNESCO World Heritage Site Snowdonia Mountains and Coast status by visiting llechi.cymru 26 The Black Chair, Yr Ysgwrn Tŷ Mawr Wybrnant STORIEL

Welsh winners House proud Story time The modest farmhouse In the hills above To explore Llŷn’s of Yr Ysgwrn near you’ll find maritime, natural and Trawsfynydd packs a lot the National Trust’s cultural heritage pay a into a small package. Tŷ Mawr Wybrnant, visit to Porth y Swnt, a The home of celebrated a small 16th-century unique National Trust poet Hedd Wyn, who farmhouse with a huge visitor centre that tells died in Flanders in 1917 cultural significance. It the peninsula’s story during the First World was the birthplace of through innovative War, shines a light on Bishop William Morgan, exhibitions featuring Wales’s bardic traditions famous as the first man multimedia displays, and the impact that war to translate the Bible into sculpture and artworks. had on our communities, Welsh, thus preserving At Bangor there’s as well as serving as a the language for future STORIEL. Located in time capsule of rural life generations. Other a beautifully renovated here in the early 20th Trust properties include space in the Old century. Little wonder , a 16th- Bishop’s Palace, it that it picked up a century manor house contains striking Europa Nostra European on Llŷn with immaculate collections of artefacts Heritage Award in 2019 ornamental gardens from Gwynedd’s long for the quality of its and stunning sea views, and eventful past – conservation. and the grandly Gothic everything from Roman Penrhyn Castle, Bangor, swords and the crowns Another winner is built in the 1800s with of ancient kings to folk Nant Gwrtheyrn, the wealth from North and social history. National Welsh Language Wales’s booming slate and Heritage Centre trade. Maritime museums at that occupies a once- Nefyn and Porthmadog abandoned quarrying Conwy’s Plas Mawr tell salty tales about our village on the northern (‘The Big House’) takes seafaring past, while shore of the Llŷn you back to Elizabethan sleepy is Peninsula. Thanks to its times and the privileged home to a fascinating investment in cultural lifestyle enjoyed by the museum dedicated to heritage, it snagged a gentry of that period. fiery politician David European Commission Just down the road Lloyd George, who RegioStars award. there’s the UK’s ‘Smallest became Prime Minister House’, a minute during World War I, and quayside cottage once spent his childhood in lived in by a fisherman the village. over six feet tall. visitsnowdonia.info

27 Walking is what we do. Fancy a solitary stroll across moody moorland or a breezy beachside ramble? Or a high-altitude hike through historic landscapes or a town trail along medieval walls? Then you’ve come to Step this way the right place. Myydd Mawr, Aberdaron

Pilgrim’s progress the tumbling Rhaeadr Fawr waterfall Extending into the sea like and enjoy views of the Carneddau a great, rocky arm, the Llŷn mountains, Menai Strait and Isle of Peninsula is one of the Anglesey on an easy four-mile trip wildest and most dramatic from Abergwyngrenyn near Bangor. Or places in Snowdonia Mountains and tackle a more challenging 10-mile walk Coast (and a designated Area of from Maentwrog near Porthmadog, Outstanding Natural Beauty to boot). immersing yourself in the lovely valley There’s nowhere quite like it. carved by the Dwyryd River and dipping into Coed Camlyn Nature Reserve (keep Soak up Llŷn’s unique your eyes peeled for puffing steam personality with a walk along engines as the walk follows a section of part of the Pilgrim’s Way, the the historic Ffestiniog Railway). 130-mile route that stretches from Basingwerk Abbey in Flintshire to For a circular walk on a Aberdaron at the peninsula’s western larger scale, try some tip. Tracking Llŷn’s northern edge, it’s a or all of the Snowdonia journey through a constantly shifting Slate Trail. Starting beside landscape of hidden coves, picture- the sea at Bangor, this 83-mile route book fishing villages, sandy bays and takes you to places you might never jagged sea cliffs (and, at Nefyn, around otherwise discover, including dramatic a perfectly formed stunning mini- remnants of Snowdonia’s industrial peninsula). past, sleepy villages, rugged mountain ranges and steep river valleys. Visit Round and round snowdoniaslatetrail.org for more

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You’re welcome one ofourall-timefavourites. sea. Admission:Perhapswe’rebiased,butit’s where Snowdonia’smountainsslideintothe mouth ofthegorgeousMawddachEstuary, 125-year-old railwaybridgespanningthe Go tobeachyBarmouthforastrollalongthe along thetopofConwy’sancienttownwalls. though, inmorewaysthanone,isthewalk smallest houseinBritain.Thehighlight fisherman’s cottagethat’ssaidtobethe of PlasMawrandthetinyharbourside you’ll passthegrandElizabethantownhouse through themedievaltown.Alongway follow Conwy’sTownTrailonatimewalk enjoy agoodwalk.Foranurbanadventure You don’thavetoheadintothewilderness On thetown in ourhillsandmountains. information onstayingsafewhen walking Please seepages8/9foradviceand Be AdventureSmart welcoming walkers. It meansthatyourhostsgotheextramilein Look out for this logo next to accommodation.

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29 visitsnowdonia.info They reckon that cycling is the new golf. Judging by the large numbers of Lycra-clad road cyclists and the go-discover, sophisticated range of mountain bikes now available, this may well be true. Add the incredible Bike it Bike growth in popularity of e-bikes, plus the world- class achievements of two proud Welshmen on two wheels (step forward Geraint Thomas and Sir Dave Brailsford), and it’s safe to say that cycling is on a roll.

But please don’t think cycling is something that can only be enjoyed by mileage- hungry masochists intent on conquering hairpinned hills and muddy forests. Here in Snowdonia Mountains and Coast we have everything from extreme to serene, from the steepest street in the world (honestly, you’ll find it in Harlech*) to flat, family-friendly trails and traffic-free coastal cruises.

* Ffordd Pen Llech is officially the world’s steepest street, with a lung-busting verified gradient of over 37%.

Do it the Brailsford way Actually, make that plural for there are two themed cycling routes – one 50 Local hero Welsh-speaking Sir Dave miles long, the other 75 miles – that Brailsford hails from the village of take in the very best of Snowdonia’s near Llanberis. ‘I’ve been stunning scenery. Along the way you’ll lucky enough to travel the world encounter challenging climbs and riding bikes,’ he says, ‘but for me only rewarding descents, not to mention one place really stands out and that’s local cafés where Sir Dave likes to home.’ Follow in his wheeltracks on have ‘a cup of coffee and a chat Ffordd Brailsford, the Brailsford Way.

Map Panel - Taflen 11_Layout 1 03/05/2016 13:40 Page 1 with the locals’.

Ffordd BRAILSFORD B Way Snowdonia Mountains and Coast

30 Cycling, cake and coffee A mountain biking legend It’s the combo all cyclists love It all started in the Coed y – a good place to park the Brenin Forest Park way back in bike safely for some rest and the 1990s. Modern mountain refreshment. Here are five biking in Britain was born here great choices. when a bunch of enthusiasts Aberdaron: Becws Islyn created the first purpose-built Bakery and Coffee House singletrack trails. Nefyn: Caffi Cwrw Llŷn And how it has grown. Coed y (based at an independent Brenin is now home to around craft beer brewery) 90 miles of routes. Just like cycling on the road, they cater Penygroes: Caffi Gerlan for all abilities. Macho riders (based at Inigo Jones Slateworks) make for the 24-mile Beast of and Y Banc (a local deli) Brenin (think of it as a ‘black’ run : Lakeside Café in skiing terms), while mellow, laid-back riders prefer the five- We all like bikes mile Yr Afon ‘green’ trail. There’s You don’t have to be a Tour de also a trail for young children France wannabee. Our highways and riders with disabilities. and byways include gentle trails and recreational routes suitable Going big in Blaenau for all-comers. Some follow Blaenau Ffestiniog, the former quiet rural paths, others disused ‘slate capital of the world’, has railway lines – and they’re traffic- put those slate mountains to light or completely traffic-free. very good use by creating the Antur ’Stiniog mountain biking The Mawddach Trail, for centre. It has received rave example, is a lazy nine-mile reviews from downhill addicts. glide along the southern shores ‘An awesome trail centre’ and of the beautiful Mawddach ‘A brilliant addition to the North Estuary from Dolgellau to Wales MTB scene’ are typical Barmouth. Find out more by comments from breathless going to Gwynedd Recreational bikers. Routes in the cycling section of visitsnowdonia.info And there’s more world-class mountain biking – all you have The Llŷn Peninsula and Bala to do is head to the Penmachno, also have an excellent choice of Beddgelert, or Gwydir Forests. highly scenic routes suitable for Or the exciting Dyfi Bike Park everyone – look out, for example, near Machynlleth, where you’ll for the Llŷn Circular Cycle Routes find tracks hand-crafted (‘I’ve leaflet. built what I want to ride’) by another biking legend Dan E-bikes = easy riding Atherton. More and more bike shops throughout Snowdonia You’re welcome Mountains and Coast offer Look out for this logo next to electric-assisted e-bikes for accommodation. It means that hire. There’s a variety of models your hosts go the extra mile in available, suitable for the road welcoming cyclists, providing and off-road. facilities like safe overnight storage of bikes, washing facilities, etc. visitsnowdonia.info

31 Festivals and events are thick on the ground in Snowdonia Mountains and Coast. Whatever the time of year, you’ll find a packed programme of things to see and do. Here’s a run-down of some of our leading events to start you off. For more details go to our website or social media feeds (see page 1). visitsnowdonia.info I visitconwy.org.uk

All year May

Bodnant Garden, Gŵyl Fwyd Caernarfon

Eventful times Eventful Guided walks introducing you to this A busy, family-friendly festival of food, glorious garden’s prolific plant and drink, music and entertainment. animal life. nationaltrust.org.uk/ gwylfwydcaernarfon.cymru bodnant-garden Cwrw ar y Cledrau/Rail Ale Beer Caernarfon, Conwy and Harlech Festival, , Castles Caernarfon Events ranging from medieval It’s full steam ahead for railway re-enactments to ‘creepy castle tours’ enthusiasts, beer fans and music cadw.gov.wales lovers. festrail.co.uk

Conwy RSPB Nature Reserve, May, June and September Conwy Estuary A diverse range of events and activities. Abersoch Triple Crown rspb.org/Conwy Events - a run, triathlon and half- marathon – held in May, June Events at Run Coed y Brenin and September respectively. Trail running events throughout the abersochtriplecrown.com year at Coed y Brenin Forest Park near Dolgellau. runcoedybrenin.com June

Pen Llŷn Ultra Marathons Conwy Pirate Weekend Challenging races ranging from 50 to Swashbuckling entertainment 100 miles in summer and winter. with boat races, pirate costume penllynultra.co.uk competitions, live music and lots more. conwypirates.com February Gŵyl Fwyd Pwllheli Cambrian Rally, Llandudno A festival of local food, drink and music. and Conwy Valley facebook.com/gwylfwydpwllheli One of the UK’s leading motorsports events on classic, challenging forest Three Peaks Yacht Race and stages. cambrianrally.co.uk Barmouth 10K Sail up the wild West Coast from Barmouth to Fort William and run to the summits of Snowdon, and . There’s also a 10K road race. threepeaksyachtrace.co.uk Snowdonia Mountains and Coast

32 Slateman Duathlon and Triathlon, Barmouth Walking Festival Llanberis Walks from easy to challenging in Races combining stunning scenery with epic beautiful southern Snowdonia. challenges. alwaysaimhighevents.com barmouthwalkingfestival.co.uk

July Abersoch Taste Weekend Food, fun competitions, tastings, live music Barmouth Food Festival and lashings of entertainment. Food and drink stalls on the harbour abersoch.co.uk and around the quay area. barmouth-wales.co.uk/foodfestival Red Bull Hardline One of the world’s toughest downhill Snowdonia Trail Marathon, mountain bike races. redbull.com Snowdonia 24, Llanberis Panoramic views and tough climbs in Hurly Burly, Barmouth dramatic terrain. Fun, messy and the best way to alwaysaimhighevents.com see out a summer of swimming. outdoorswimmingsociety.com/bwrlwm- International Snowdon Race, Llanberis bermo-hurly-burly/ A long-established race attracting over 600 runners from across the world. October snowdonrace.co.uk Snowdonia Marathon Eryri, Llanberis Sesiwn Fawr, Dolgellau Voted best British marathon twice, with a Dip into Wales’s eclectic, exciting music spectacular route encircling Snowdon. scene at this great festival. snowdoniamarathon.co.uk sesiwnfawr.cymru Gwledd Conwy Feast Offshore Circuit Racing, Local produce, street food, masterclasses, Caernarfon quayside kids’ activities, art, craft and music. The thrills and excitement of powerboat conwyfeast.co.uk racing set against a splendid backdrop. ocrda.com Wales Rally GB One of the must see action-packed motor July/August racing event. walesrallygb.com

Sailing events, Abersoch and Pwllheli November Regattas and competitions (like the Abersoch Dinghy Week) taking place Snowdonia Walking Festival, throughout the summer. scyc.co.uk Betws-y-Coed plasheli.org Walks suitable for everyone in the mountains and forests. August breeseadventures.co.uk

Race the Train, Tywyn November/December Who’s likely to win: the narrow-gauge or the runners? Abersoch Christmas Festival racethetrain.com Abersoch at its most atmospheric during a festive weekend. abersoch.co.uk September December Bash Mawr y Bala Stunning location for this fantastic Portmeirion Food and Craft Fair weekend event. A fairytale setting for the best local welshtriathlon.org/events/bala-big-bash/ food, drink, gifts and entertainment.

portmeirion.wales visitsnowdonia.info

33 Head to one of the Tourist Information Centres for help and advice on accommodation, attractions, events and activities. They’re featured here, along with other sources for useful info.

Tourist Information Centres Llandudno Victoria Centre, LL30 2RP Aberdyfi*, 01492 577577 Wharf Gardens, LL35 0ED [email protected] 01654 767321 * Open Easter–October

In the know [email protected]

Beddgelert* Tourist Information Points Canolfan Hebog, LL55 4YD For information on Tourist Information 01766 890615 Points in the area please go to [email protected] visitsnowdonia.info

Betws-y-Coed Medical information Royal Oak Stables, LL24 0AH 01690 710426 Ysbyty Gwynedd Hospital [email protected] 01248 384384 (only use 999 in an emergency) Conwy Muriau Buildings, LL32 8LD NHS Direct Wales 01492 577566 0845 4647 [email protected] Out-of-hours GP service 0300 123 5566

Find out more

We produce a selection of guides on things to see and do throughout Snowdonia Mountains and Coast, available online and in print at Tourist Information Centres. Cyclist can find out about theBrailsford Way, which takes in some of our most iconic climbs and descents. For more gentle rides, there are the quiet, largely traffic-freeGwynedd Recreational Routes, which can also be tackled on foot. There are stunning seaside strolls to be discovered in our Coastal Circular Walks leaflet, plus specially created road trips along the Coastal Way, the Cambrian Way and the North Wales Way.

Published by: Tourism, Marketing and Events Service, Economy and Community Department, Cyngor Gwynedd, County Offices, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 1SH. Copyright © 2020. Cyngor Bwrdeistref Sirol Council. [email protected] Editorial written by Writerog Ltd (Roger Thomas Freelance Services, writerog.co.uk). Designed and produced by View Creative Agency, viewcreative.co.uk Printed by design2print, d2pltd.co.uk Photographs: © Andrew Lee; © APCE/SNPA; © Conwy County Borough Council; © Crown copyright (2019) Visit Wales; © Cyngor ; © GreenWood Family Park; © King Arthur’s Labyrinth; © National Slate Museum Llanberis; © National Trust Images/Arnhel de Serra; © Snowdon Mountain Railway; © Wales Coast Path; © Zip World. 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

Snowdonia Mountains and Coast the publication of the information. Please check all prices and facilities before making your booking. When you’ve finished with the guide please forward to a friend or place in a suitable recycling container. 34 Antur Straeon dan Ddaear The Underground Storytelling Adventure

hwylio sAil Afon y Dragon Ddr aig riveR

Dewch o hyd i ni yn ne Eryri ar yr A487 ger Corris. Find us in Southern Snowdonia on the A487 Ar agor Pasg i Hydref. near Corris. Open Easter to October. 01654 761584 www.kingarthurslabyrinth.co.uk

KAL20_Bilingual_A5.indd 1 29/01/2020 15:24 CHWARAEON A FFITRWYDD AR AGOR AR DRAWS GWYNEDD I BAWB SPORT AND FITNESS OPEN ACROSS GWYNEDD TO ALL

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dewch o hyd i ganolfan: find a centre: WWW.BYWNIACH.CYMRU

A M G U E D D F A LLOYD GEORGE M U S E U M

Darganfyddwch fywyd ac amseroedd “mab y bwthyn” a ddaeth yn brif weinidog yn ystod y Rhyfel Byd Cyntaf.

Discover the life and times of the cottage bred boy who became prime minister during World War 1.

Ar agor Pasg - Hydref, adegau eraill trwy drefniant.

Open Easter – October. Other times by appointment.

Llanystumdwy, Criccieth, Gwynedd, LL52 0SH Tel : 01766 522071

www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/museums [email protected] u

Mynediad am ddim | Free Entry Mawrth - Sadwrn 11yb-5yp | Tuesday - Saturday 11am-5pm Ffordd Gwynedd, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 1DT | 01248 353368 [email protected] www.storiel.cymru