Something for everyone: from the natural beauty of Snowdonia’s mountains, forests and coast to historic castles, ancient monuments and museums. So much to see and do for all ages and abilities – and all within easy reach of Betws-y-Coed.
Some ideas for getting the most out of your stay:
Steam trains and Snowdon Mountain Railway: A trip on the Ffestiniog Railway or the recently extended Welsh Highland Railway from Caernarfon to Porthmadog makes for a lovely day out. The Snowdon Mountain Railway is also extremely popular and it is best to book in advance to avoid disappointment
Castles and homes: Wales is famous for its castles and Conwy, Caernarfon, Harlech and Beaumaris are all within easy reach of Bryn Afon. Other places of historic interest include Gwydir Castle, Ty Mawr and Penrhyn Castle.
Museums and mines: Learn about Wales’ mining heritage at Sygun Copper Mine, National Welsh Slate Museum and Llechwedd slate caverns.
Gardens: The world-famous horticultural gem Bodnant Garden is just a 20-minute drive from Betws-y-Coed while the unique village and gardens of Portmeirion and Plas Newydd house and gardens on Anglesey are only 40 minutes away.
Angling: The Llugwy and Conwy rivers offer excellent salmon and sea trout fishing and the lakes in the Gwydir Forest are a fisherman's delight. However you do need a licence and permit which can be obtained from Betws-y-Coed Fishing Club.
Woollen Mills: Beautiful fabrics are produced locally at the Trefriw Woollen Mills.
Forest walks, mountain-biking, rock climbing, trekking, zip wire experiences and underground caverns. Snowdonia is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts.
Walks: Snowdon and the surrounding peaks are within easy reach for spectacular walks. If you want to leave your car at Bryn Afon, you can take the Snowdon Sherpa Bus from Betws-y-Coed to any of the six main routes up Snowdon, giving you the option of taking different paths up and down Snowdon.
There are also stunning walks to enjoy in the Gwydir Forest right on our doorstep along with breathtaking waterfalls such as Swallow Falls, Conwy Falls and Fairy Glen and beautiful lakes like Llyn Geirionydd, Llyn Crafnant, Llyn Parc and Llyn Elsi.
Mountain biking: The Marin Trail is a ten-minute bike ride away from Bryn Afon in the nearby Gwydir Forest. Other mountain-bike trails nearby include Penmachno, Blaenaeu Ffestiniog & Coed y Brenin. For local bike hire and maintenance, visit Bike Wales.
For adrenaline junkies: Try the world’s longest and fastest zip wire, a forest rollercoaster, tree-top adventures or underground trampolining at ZipWorld or take on exhilarating underground challenges at Go Below.
Surfing: Experience the world’s first inland surf lagoon at Surf Snowdonia which is just 8 miles from Betws-y-Coed.
Guided walks and other activities: Celticos, Seren Ventures, Freedom Outdoors, Heart of the Wilderness and Outdoor Adventure Wales.