North Wales

‘Queen of resorts’ is Victorian seaside gem with past stretching back centuries

This town in North Wales has been a popular holiday destination for centuries, with its stunning beaches, historic pier and beautiful landscapes drawing in visitors

This North Wales town boasts a lengthy history of attracting holidaymakers from all corners of Britain, having earned the prestigious nickname “Queen of the Welsh Watering Places”.

The Victorian coastal treasure of Llandudno, with its colourful past, is believed to trace its roots back to the Bronze Age. These distinctive features attract tourists eager to experience the breathtaking scenery of the Conwy Valley and discover the region’s fascinating heritage.

Indeed, Llandudno has previously been hailed as amongst the safest locations to live in Britain, with approximately 19,700 fortunate inhabitants. What’s more, it’s considerably more affordable to explore and stay in compared to most rival seaside destinations.

Two principal beaches extend along the coastline – North Shore Beach and West Shore Beach. The northern stretch features a lengthy promenade typical of any British coastal resort.

However, what distinguishes it from others is its palm tree-lined walkway – reminiscent of a Mediterranean haven. Nestled peacefully beyond North Shore Beach lies the Great Orme clifftop, providing an excursion on the Great Orme Tramway, transporting visitors to elevated vantage points via cable cars.

One delighted tourist commented: “The cable car ride was amazing; for the length of the journey, £14 per return (this was the price in 2024) is pretty reasonable. The views are stunning, and you can see for miles on a really clear day, which we had.”

On the West Shore, nestled on the other side of the town, one can enjoy panoramic views of the Snowdonian mountainside. A TripAdvisor review gushes: “One of my favourite beaches anywhere: unspoilt, dog-friendly, free of kiosks and vendors – just sea, rock and sand. Stunning views of the Great Orme. Lots of parking.”

The charming town of Llandudno boasts a rich history that stretches from the Stone Age through to the Iron Age, with numerous settlements over the years on the slopes of the limestone headland, better known as the Great Orme. The headland is a popular attraction for visitors from near and far, offering a four-hour trek filled with breathtaking views.

The Victorian promenade, affectionately known as The Parade, and the iconic pier are two of the town’s most beloved landmarks, both dating back to 1877. After extensive restorations, the pier has earned the title of one of the best in the whole of the UK.

One visitor shared their experience of the pier, saying: “Excellent pier experience. A Punch and Judy, plenty of arcades, hair braiding/colouring, a good walk, fun stalls and a cafe with a wonderful lady singer belting out Amy Winehouse numbers. There’s even a little display of historical photos to show when the pier was used for the ferries. Well worth a visit.”

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Gorgeous UK town with waterfalls and cute shops is perfect spot to visit in autumn

This beautiful town in north Wales is makes for the perfect escape from the city, with a distinctly alpine feel, charming stone buildings and an impressive waterfall

Image of bridge and surrounding architecture in Betws
Autumn is the best time to visit this charming Welsh destination(Image: Joe Daniel Price)

Those looking for the perfect autumn escape close to home should set their sights on North Wales. In fall, fresh air and falling leaves transform Wales’s stunning countryside into a brilliant tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds.

Nestled amongst rugged peaks, tranquil waters, and verdant forests, Betws-y-Coed makes a perfect destination for an autumn getaway.

Regarded as the entrance to Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), its name translates to “prayerhouse-in-the-woods” and is believed to derive from the 14th-century St Michael’s Church, where ancient yew trees have flourished for over 500 years.

READ MORE: ‘I visited gorgeous UK town but there was one thing I was not prepared for’READ MORE: Incredible UK seaside town that’s perfect for an autumn getaway

Image of flowing water in Betws y Coed
The surrounding area is full of woodland paths to explore(Image: North Wales Live/David Powell)

The introduction of transport links and rail connections proved transformative for Betws, attracting artists, poets, and authors to the region, captivated by the invigorating atmosphere and woodland panoramas. It wasn’t long before Betws-y-Coed established itself as Britain’s inaugural artists’ settlement, where imagination flourished.

During the Victorian era, this quaint village transformed into a posh tourist hotspot for affluent visitors seeking wellness and relaxation, reports Wales Online. Hotels began to pop up, offering horse-drawn tours to showcase the stunning beauty of Betws.

Fast forward to the 1930s, steam trains started transporting factory workers from Lancashire to Betws-y-Coed for a much-needed break from urban life. The Trefriw Spa became a massive attraction, drawing in crowds of visitors.

Today, Betws is at the epicentre of all the action in Eryri, with a plethora of nearby activities such as waterfall walks, canyoning, hiking, and ziplining.

Gwydir Forest Park practically envelops Betws-y-Coed, offering a magical blend of tranquil mountain lakes, woodland paths and frothing waterfalls cascading through the untamed Welsh landscape.

Photo of waterfall near Betws-y-Coed
The falls are approximately 42 m (138 ft) in height and are the highest continuous waterfall in Wales. (Image: Portia Jones)

Numerous trails are located in this area where you can enjoy the dazzling foliage as you trek along. Embark on the two-mile-long Swallow Falls walk to witness the tumbling falls. This often muddy trail meanders through woodland to a viewpoint over the waterfall – you get a fantastic view from this side of the river, so don’t forget your camera.

Canyoning and gorge walking are also a must for adventure seekers. With Seren Ventures, you can scramble through river-filled canyons, abseil down cliffs, and even zipline across rivers.

Betws-y-Coed isn’t just about outdoor pursuits; it’s also home to charming Victorian architecture and Swallow Falls at Ty’n Llwyn – often dubbed North Wales’ most picturesque spot, with a backdrop that could pass for a film set.

Here, the River Conwy meets three tributaries – the Llugwy, Lledr, and Machno – flowing in from the west, creating a dramatic mix of waterfalls, rapids, and deep, mysterious pools. The natural beauty is absolutely spellbinding.

Swallow Falls (Rhaeadr Ewynnol) are just a 15-minute drive from Betws, and you can park at the Ty’n Llwyn car park in Gwydir Forest Park, which is a starting point for a walking trail to the falls.

You can admire the falls from timber boardwalks and a footbridge, with platform access in a gently steep gorge. There’s no need for an extensive hike; simply amble to the platforms and start capturing some stunning fall photos.

The falls are made up of multiple cascades, adding up to approximately 42 m (138 ft) in height, tumbling over a stepped rocky platform and are the highest continuous waterfall in Wales. It’s one of the most accessible and beautiful falls in Wales and is definitely worth a visit this autumn.

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Stunning mountain lake worth the ‘best’ walk from nearby pretty village

You might not have heard of the idyllic lake surrounded by a forest, but it has been named the best walk in the country

Llyn Elsi, a lake located in the Snowdonia National Park (Eryri) above the village of Betws-y-coed in North Wales. Photo taken in July 2021
This hidden gem is a special spot to relax after a hike(Image: Liam Ryder)

North Wales is a hotspot for stunning walks and breathtaking vistas – and there’s one hidden haven that offers a tranquil atmosphere in a place you might not expect.

Located in the Snowdonia National Park, Llyn Elsi is an incredible, peaceful spot perfect for a walk. You’ll have to earn the views though, as it’s located amidst the mountains that this area is famed for.

The reward is without a doubt worth the effort, as the Llyn Elsi circular route has been deemed the best walk in the country according to online fashion retailer Damart. The “easy” two-hour stroll around the picturesque mountain reservoir within woodland provides vistas across to Snowdonia.

Situated above the picturesque village of Betws-y-Coed, Llyn Elsi is a lesser-known reservoir within Gwydyr Forest that emerged from two smaller bodies of water, Llyn Rhisgog and Llyn Enoc. In 1914, with consent from Lord Ancaster, a 20ft dam was constructed to supply water for Betws-y-Coed in Eryri National Park.

Despite this, the lake only has a maximum depth of nine metres. A path round the lake provides excellent views towards the mountain ranges of the Carneddau and the Glyderau, reports North Wales Live.

Boots are advised for the lakeside path at Llyn Elsi as it can get muddy after rain
Boots are advised for the lakeside path at Llyn Elsi as it can get muddy after rain(Image: Peter S/Wiki)

On the lake itself, a small island provides a breeding ground for its most notorious residents, black headed gulls, once blamed for polluting the local water supply. The spot is so secluded, journalist Liam Ryder came across it by accident during a holiday in the area.

He said: “Llyn Elsi is an incredible spot that my partner and I actually found by complete accident. When in holiday in North Wales, we set out with the aim of climbing Yr Wyddfa itself.

“But of course, a lack of planning on my behalf meant I’d overlooked the need to book the Snowdon train up the mountain. I’d also managed to get us in the complete wrong place thanks to a mixture of ignorance and naivety, so we settled with a shorter hike and make the most of an entirely avoidable situation.

“In some ways, it worked out for the best. While Snowdon remains on our bucket list as adults, we’ll never forget climbing and walking through the clearing to see Llyn Elsi and the surrounding peaks in all their glory.

Llyn Elsi, a lake located in the Snowdonia National Park (Eryri) above the village of Betws-y-coed in North Wales. Photo taken in July 2021
Llyn Elsi offers a tranquil spot that rewards walkers for their efforts(Image: Liam Ryder)

“Despite visiting Eryri in the peak of the school summer holidays – which meant the weather while climbing was absolutely punishing – the place was deserted. It made for the most tranquil, peaceful experience of my life to date.”

Hikes typically starts from behind the Grade II-listed St Mary’s Church in the village, with a dog-friendly path that features benches and woodland streams. It’s a bridleway, so it’s suitable for cycling, although some parts can be steep.

The 6.5km (4 miles) circular walk to and from Betws y Coed has racked up 1.7 million Google searches and 63,073 Instagram hashtags. With a 4.4 rating on AllTrails, the route is considered “easy”, making it “ideal” for hiking and mountain biking.

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Stunning ‘colourful’ UK village with ‘Italian charm’ — but there’s a catch for tourists

If you’re looking for a charming UK village that looks like it’s straight out of a Mediterranean film, then this pretty spot should be at the top of your travel bucket list

Portmeirion in Wales, UK
Portmeirion should be on your travel bucket list (Image: Getty)

If you’re seeking a destination in the UK boasting distinctive Italian charm, then look no further than one breathtaking location in Wales. Portmeirion village, nestled on a private peninsula with magnificent coastal views, blends Italian Riviera elegance with Welsh countryside and resembles something plucked directly from a movie set.

Bursting with colour and remarkable architectural design, this north Wales village was created by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis and stands as one of Britain’s most spectacular architectural achievements of the twentieth century. Crafted in the manner of a Mediterranean coastal piazza, it’s absolutely worth experiencing.

Nevertheless, there’s one snag – there is a charge to enter, reports the Express.

This beautiful village is in the UK
This beautiful village is in the UK(Image: Ian Cooper/North Wales Live)

The settlement was assembled using salvaged structures and discarded treasures from across the globe, which were shipped to Wales and reconstructed to form this vivid Mediterranean corner within the UK.

Sharing footage of the decorated archways and stone-paved pathways on TikTok, UK Hidden Gems declared you ‘won’t believe’ this location exists in Britain, noting: “This colourful village feels like stepping onto a film set, with pastel houses, cobbled lanes, and lush gardens framed by stunning views over the estuary.”

Beyond the delightful central plaza of the settlement, which boasts a fountain pool, a Gothic pavilion and even a giant chessboard, visitors can explore Y Gwyllt Woodlands – a remarkable 70 acres of magnificent natural splendour.

Here, you’ll discover stunning walking trails that span 20 miles, leading you past unique attractions such as a Dog Cemetery, Ghost Garden, and a serene Chinese lake.

There’s also a hilltop gazebo boasting an impressive viewing deck where visitors can soak up panoramic views of the village and estuary below.

Whether you fancy a day trip or a longer stay, Portmeirion should be on your travel bucket list without delay.

There are several accommodation options, including the four-star Hotel Portmeirion, the roomy and chic Castell Deudraeth and self-catering cottages too.

Portmeirion in Wales, UK
Portmeirion should be on your travel bucket list (Image: Getty)

If you’re planning a day visit to Portmeirion, it’s open from 9.30am until 6.30pm during the main season, and tickets can be booked online. It’ll set you back £20 for adults, with seniors and students priced at £17.50 and children aged 5-15 costing £13.

Children under the age of five can enter for free.

You can also pick up annual memberships, or if you’ve reserved a three-course lunch at Castell Deudraeth, you can explore the village for free after your meal.

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Brilliant theme park 90-minutes from Liverpool and Manchester that kids won’t want to leave

This theme park in North Wales is set against the stunning backdrop of the Snowdonia mountains and home to a large variety of unique rides and nature-focused experiences

GreenWood woodland theme park in North Wales
The Green Dragon rollercoaster is dubbed by the park as the “world’s first people-powered rollercoaster”(Image: GreenWood)

This theme park with enough attractions to captivate both younger and older children is every parent’s summer wish come true. It is even more enticing with it comes with a picturesque setting that offers a touch of escapism for grown-ups as well.

There’s absolutely no question that GreenWood theme park in North Wales boasts an idyllic location – proudly eco-friendly and nestled against the breathtaking Snowdonia mountain range.

Should you be planning a family break in North Wales this year, or simply fancy a relatively straightforward day trip from Manchester, this park ranks among the finest attractions around. It comes after sunbed wars see Brits forced to queue for ‘over an hour’ just to get to the pool.

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Image of kids on a ride at GreenWood theme park
This theme park in North Wales is only a 90-minute car right from Manchester(Image: MEN)

The journey takes approximately 90 minutes by car from Manchester, but it follows one of the most uncomplicated routes possible (via the A55 beyond Llandudno and A5 through Bangor). The stress-free journey also provides magnificent coastal vistas along North Wales.

As one Manchester Evening News writer discovered, travelling with two children aged 9 and 5, the theme park provides a thoroughly packed day out with an abundance of activities – plus a genuine diversity of rides that sets it apart from typical theme parks.

Consider, for instance, its Green Dragon rollercoaster – marketed as the “world’s first people-powered rollercoaster”. It’s apparently the only theme park attraction of its type in the world- but don’t fret, it doesn’t require everyone to run Flintstones-style to power the ride.

The attraction utilises funicular technology, first introduced in Welsh slate mines two centuries ago. All passengers clamber into a carriage which descends a hill, powering the rollercoaster up the incline.

There are plenty of very unique features to encounter at this family attraction. Another is the Barefoot Trail – where you kick off your shoes and stroll through the woodland, allowing your feet to feel an invigorating variety of surfaces from water to straw and stones.

GreenWood theme park seen from above in North Wales - with Snowdonia in the background
Be prepared for some inclined walking as the park is set against a hillside(Image: GreenWood)

There is stilt walking for beginners, archery, and during the first week of the school summer holidays, there are virtually no queues for any of the 20+ rides across the site. The only unavoidable wait will likely be for one of the park’s more spectacular highlights – the colossal Solar Splash water ride.

Another world-first, this ride is powered by solar energy, and allows both kids and adults to zoom down two massive central chutes, or a spiral chute next to them, before making a splash landing at the end. All the wild woodland play features scattered across the site, add an extra dose of intrigue. The park is nestled against a hillside so be prepared for some gentle inclines as you explore the grounds.

The on-site Woodbarn restaurant boasts a large soft play barn inside, ensuring your little ones are kept amused while you order food and wait for it to be served at your table.

Image of slides at GreenWood theme park
Entry is £25 for people over 1m in height(Image: MEN)

The attraction has recently introduced alpaca walks that you can book as an extra (for £20), where children aged over 4 accompanied by their parents can meet and feed the three resident alpacas on the site. You can then embark on a guided walk with these furry creatures around their enclosure.

Treetop Towers, filled with slides and climbing adventures, are situated across the park, and you can walk up to the top of the site to take in the view from the Snowdonia View Point.

Entry is £25 per person for anyone over 1m, while those under 1m pay £10. A family ticket saver option is also available, costing £95 for a family of four (saving you a bit at £23.75 each). GreenWood is offering a ‘Pay Once, Visit Twice’ deal for the summer holidays. If you visit between 19th July and 24th August, you can return within seven days at no extra cost.

Dogs are also allowed in for free, provided they’re well-behaved and kept on leads.

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Fury as ‘lovely beach’ becomes ‘no-go area’ after campervan invasion

Holidaymakers are being urged to park “sensibly” when visiting this popular destination in North Wales as loitering and littering have become a problem for residents

Image of a line-up of campervans
In July 2025, 25 campervans and motorhomes were counted parking for free on an access road to the Y Glyn(Image: John Horrigan)

Holidaymakers – particularly those travelling in campervans – are being urged to park “sensibly” when visiting one are of Wales this summer. Furious locals in Gwynedd who are plagued by reckless parking worry the council’s polite plea will be ignored.

A perceived lack of enforcement is being blamed for some of the chaos witnessed in North Wales this summer. Residents say laybys, seafronts and scenic spots are packed with rubbish-dumping motorhome owners who refuse to pay for proper campsites.

“Why bother paying when you can park free overnight in laybys all the way from Llanberis to Betws-y-Coed?” sighed one woman online. Efforts by Cyngor Gwynedd to offer serviced parking areas for overnight motorhomes and campervans are viewed are seen as a mixed bag. There are four of these “arosfan” sites in north Gwynedd, costing £16.50 per night. It comes after UK drivers were warned over ‘avoiding’ road instead of having to follow new rule.

READ MORE: Campervan stuck in the sand at popular Porthmadog beach is swept out to seaREAD MORE: UK’s top 10 cheapest camping spots surrounded by nature – some cost less than £5

A single motorhome uses a serviced 'arosfan' site for campervans at the Y Glyn by Llyn Padarn
A single motorhome uses a serviced ‘arosfan’ site for campervans at the Y Glyn by Llyn Padarn(Image: John Horrigan)

Despite being more affordable than many campsites, Llanberis residents say an eight-space arosfan at Y Glyn (“The Lagoons”) by Llyn Padarn is regularly ignored. Not long ago, a local man spotted one motorhome at the site – and 25 non-payers camped on the site’s access road, reports North Wales Live

Another trouble spot is an extensive beachfront parking zone near Caernarfon airport close to Dinas Dinlle. Facing west, it’s regarded as a perfect location for witnessing spectacular sunsets.

Last year, Cyngor Gwynedd Maritime Service prohibited overnight parking and camping there. One local resident has taken to the internet to vent her frustration, claiming that at times, “50-plus” campers are still parking up for the night. In a fiery message to the council, she said: “They are turning our lovely beach into a no-go area.”

She didn’t stop there, adding: “You ban us residents from walking our dogs on the beach during tourist season, you hike the parking prices so again so regular visits for locals are no longer affordable – yet you continually turn a blind eye to visitors in vans parking up in laybys, passing places, beaches etc, dumping rubbish and dirty water.

“Why not give us residents passes to use our local attractions, and charge and fine the visitors? You’d raise far more money and keep residents happy – we pay enough council tax.”

Image of a few campervans parked in a scenic setting
Despite a ban on overnight parking and camping on a beachfront area near Dinas Dinlle, Gwynedd, local people claim the site remains popular with motorhomes and campervans(Image: Google)

It’s not just this resident who’s had enough. Folks in Llanbedr have voiced similar concerns, with the lack of parking spaces in south Gwynedd becoming a real issue for communities dealing with their own parking problems.

Car drivers haven’t escaped criticism either. Things reached boiling point last month when Bala’s lakeside car parks were swamped. Desperate visitors resorted to parking wherever they could, even if it meant blocking driveways, access points and bus turning areas.

Enforcement was carried out by Cyngor Gwynedd (CCG) and now, with another heatwave looming, the local authority is warning that those parking irresponsibly could face fines.

In social media posts published this weekend, the council urged motorhome enthusiasts to reserve spots at the county’s designated arosfan locations. Tackling broader parking issues, a spokesperson stated: “Popular locations can be busy over the summer period.

“Parking irresponsibly and blocking roads can make it difficult for emergency services to pass – remember this when parking. If a car park is full, consider other locations to visit. You can be fined if you don’t keep to the parking rules.”

In Llanberis, volunteers from the Pentref Taclus (Tidy Village) group toil to maintain the community’s pristine appearance. Yet confronted with an onslaught of motorhomes, often leaving rubbish in their wake, it can be an unrewarding endeavour.

Cyngor Gwynedd was approached for comment by North Wales Live. The county’s first arosfan for motorhomes was launched in Criccieth in March 2024. The local council has also expressed plans to establish a similar site in Meirrionydd. The four pilot sites are:

  • Maes Car Park, Criccieth (LL52 0BT)
  • Y Glyn, Llanberis (LL55 4TY)
  • Cei’r Gogledd, Pwllheli (LL53 5YR)
  • Doc Fictoria Car Park, Caernarfon (LL55 1SQ)

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Seaside town with ‘hidden gem’ beach that feels like ‘a world away’

The area is renowned for spectacular sunsets and visitors say they love the quieter vibe on the beach compared to busier nearby spots

Overlooking Conwy Estuary and towards Snowdonia National Park with its rock breakwaters.
The West Shore beach in Llandudno, overlooking the Conwy Estuary(Image: Bob-McCraight via Getty Images)

Llandudno is a cherished coastal escape renowned for its vast beach. The town is home to a delightful Victorian promenade and unique cable cars that climb the Great Orme, a stunning headland on the north Wales coast.

While the bustling North Shore Beach tends to attract the masses, Llandudno also offers another stretch of sand that remains a ‘hidden gem’ for many. On the opposite side of the headland is West Shore Beach, a secluded bay bordered by rolling sand dunes.

It provides a tranquil alternative to the lively North Shore Beach, ideal for those seeking a quiet escape from Llandudno’s main attractions.

The beach paints a picturesque scene, with awe-inspiring views extending across the Conwy Estuary to the peaks of Snowdonia. Swimming is possible at West Shore Beach, but given the shallow waters and lack of lifeguard supervision, it might be safer to stick to paddling.

Llandudno West shore beach on the river Conwy estuary
The beach offers a quieter alternative to the busier main seafront(Image: PeterEtchells via Getty Images)

It has been praised as a “hidden gem” by numerous TripAdvisor reviewers. One visitor commented: “A real hidden gem! Only 15 minutes walk from the promenade, but feels like a world away.

“There is a quiet beach, and even sand dunes to explore.” Meanwhile another visitor remarked: “This place is a hidden gem. It is so unlike the busy North Shore. It is peaceful with few shops and a vast sandy beach.”

A third reviewer noted: “This is a very nice quiet place, you can walk along the beach, there is a children’s play area, boating lake for model boats, a lovely coffee shop with hot snacks, pub on the corner.

Lllandudno Beach a popular destination for holiday makers and day trippers
Lllandudno Beach is a popular destination for holidaymakers and day trippers(Image: korhil65 via Getty Images)

“If you want to get away from the Llandudno seaside, Jump on the bus, £3 each way and it leaves from just by the monument we’re all the busses that leave for the Great Orme.”

West Shore Beach Café provides ice creams and light refreshments, whilst a pay and display car park sits handily positioned close to the shoreline, reports the Liverpool Echo. From May 1 to September 30, dogs are banned from the main stretch of sand directly in front of West Parade.

Sunset at West Shore Beach
The area is known for its iconic sunsets(Image: Hadyn Iball / North Wales Live)

Nevertheless, there are well-marked areas of the coastline where dogs are welcome throughout the year, so make certain to observe the regulations if you’re travelling with your four-legged companions. Lavatory facilities and a youngsters’ playground are readily accessible.

Those intending to remain for the full day shouldn’t overlook the spectacular sunset at West Shore Beach — it ranks amongst the most breathtaking in the area.

Watch as the sun disappears beneath the skyline, painting magnificent colours across the waters.

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‘Fairytale’ UK best campsite beside river near waterfall is ‘out of this world’

The campsite is nestled among the Rhinog mountains and is just two miles from the best beach in Wales

Lake (Llynnau Mymbyr) at Capel Curig, Snowdonia, North Wales.
Lake at Capel Curig, Snowdonia(Image: joe daniel price via Getty Images)

A picturesque Gwynedd campsite, boasting an “out of this world” location, has been crowned as one of Britain’s finest. Situated beside a river and near a waterfall, the woodland retreat in Eryri National Park is described by visitors as possessing a “fairytale ” charm.

Nantcol Waterfalls has earned its place on a list of 150 exceptional sites curated by Campsites.co.uk, which boasts over 3,200 locations. A total of 19 other North Wales campsites also made the cut, showcasing the region’s top-notch staycation offerings.

Set amidst the breathtaking Rhinog mountains, Nantcol Waterfalls campsite is merely two miles from Shell Island, with its golden beaches near Llanbedr recently hailed as the best in Wales by the annual Times and Sunday Times Best UK Beaches guide.

The site is traversed by Afon Nantcol – perfect for paddling, swimming or fishing. Thewaterfall is just 100 metres away.

Rhinog National Nature Reserve, Gwynedd, Snowdonia, Wales, UK. This nature reserve lies in the centre of the Rhinogydd mountains. Much of the reserve consists of a broad expanse of upland heath and is of particular importance for birdlife.The Cambrian Way is a mountain and hill  walking route from Cardiff in South Wales through the higher parts of central Wales to Conwy on the North Wales Coast. Around 290 miles in length, it uses established public paths but at times crosses countryside where there is no defined path but where a right to roam exists. The Cambrian Way passes through the Rhinog Mountain range. The entire area of the Rhinogs is located within the Snowdonia National Park.
Rhinog National Nature Reserve, Gwynedd(Image: Charles Hawes via Getty Images)

Beyond tent pitches, the campsite offers glamping pods complete with TV, underfloor heating, WiFi, and firepits available for hire, reports North Wales Live.

Last year, the campsite clinched the title of the UK’s number one, and guests wholeheartedly concur, awarding it a 4.89-star rating.

One visitor remarked: “Only noise you can hear are the birds, river and odd sheep. It really is a peace of paradise, we didn’t want to come home.”

Another enthused: “We’ve officially found our happy place. The site is so well maintained, sustainable, and focused on preserving the beauty of nature.”

Nantcol Waterfalls campsite
Nantcol Waterfalls campsite(Image: Campsites.co.uk)

Nantcol Waterfalls offers optional electric grass pitches for tents and tourers, in addition to waterside bell tents and luxury glamping pods.

New additions this year include a wood-fired sauna and motorhome hire.

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‘Dreamy’ seaside town with sandy beach and one of UK’s best ice cream parlours where you can spot dolphins

Abersoch is a beautiful coastal village on what’s known as the ‘Welsh Riviera’ – boasting sandy beaches, resident dolphins and one of the UK’s best ice cream parlours

Abersoch beach huts lined up by the sand dunes on the North Wales coast in October 2021.
Abersoch is a beautiful coastal village on what’s known as the ‘Welsh Riviera’ – boasting sandy beaches, resident dolphins and one of the UK’s best ice cream parlours(Image: wellsie82 via Getty Images)

One of Wales’ best coastal towns, boasting sandy beaches, resident dolphins and a chic ice cream parlour recently crowned as one of the UK’s top spots for ice cream by the Sunday Times, is nestled on the Llŷn Peninsula. Situated on Pen Llŷn, the seaside town of Abersoch is among the most picturesque locations along the Llŷn.

This northwestern Welsh peninsula is brimming with natural splendour, rich cultural heritage, and idyllic beaches. Flanked by the crystal-clear waters of the Irish Sea on one side and Cardigan Bay on the other, this Welsh region offers an ideal alternative to a holiday abroad, complete with a plethora of activities, accommodation options, and independent eateries and cafes.

Visitors can explore remnants of Iron Age forts and islands, expansive stretches of sandy beaches, and numerous charming coastal villages and historical sites.

This coastal bolthole is also renowned for its water sports,
This coastal bolthole is also renowned for its water sports(Image: Daily Post Wales)

Dubbed the ‘Welsh Riviera,’ Abersoch, located on the southern part of the Llŷn, is renowned for its sandy beaches, internationally acclaimed sailing waters, and a bustling high street lined with trendy bars, restaurants, major brands, and independent shops, reports Wales Online.

Visit on a warm day when the skies are clear and the sea glistens, and you’ll understand why Abersoch draws thousands to this scenic corner of Gwynedd each summer. This coastal hideaway is also famed for its water sports, particularly paddle boarding. If fortune favours, you might even spot resident dolphins gliding through the transparent waters.

The protected bay offers ideal conditions for novice and seasoned paddleboarders alike, with the village staging numerous events and competitions throughout the year, drawing enthusiasts from across the UK.

You can reserve a SUP session through Abersoch Watersports, where skilled instructors will lead you around the stunning coastline, highlighting marine wildlife and coastal landmarks.

Beautiful Porth Ceiriad beach lies on a remote stretch of coastline on the Llŷn Peninsula
Beautiful Porth Ceiriad beach lies on a remote stretch of coastline on the Llŷn Peninsula(Image: Google)

Fresh to paddle boarding? You can plunge into the #SUP lifestyle and master paddle boarding with their ISA-certified instructors using premium Red Paddle Co paddleboards.

You’ll receive coaching in the bay and master proper paddle methods to boost confidence and enhance your SUP abilities so you can emerge from the water and begin searching for dolphins.

Another major attraction in the town is the expansive sandy shoreline, which the AA has previously recognised as one of the ‘finest seaside destinations’.

The AA characterised Abersoch Beach as a scenic Welsh location: “The top place goes to this sandy beach, which is dog-friendly and also manned by lifeguards. There are two nearby tourist attractions: the Porth y Swnt Interpretation Centre and Nant Gwrtheyrn, which is home to the National Welsh Language and Heritage Centre.”

Close by sits Harbour Beach, a stretch of sand along the River Soch nestled between the harbour and Warren Beach. For those seeking adventure, Porth Ceiriad is an isolated beach that can prove challenging to locate.

Despite its proximity to the bustling Abersoch, this heavenly location stays relatively undiscovered, something that devoted visitors surely cherish. According to North Wales Live, its misleading nearness to Abersoch and the surrounding clifftops contribute to the enigma of locating this hidden gem.

The quest to uncover Porth Ceiriad has become legendary amongst locals. It gained the nickname “Porth Ceiriad Mystery Tour” due to the peculiar phenomenon of vanishing holidaymakers misguided by faulty Satnav systems and baffling maps.

Following your exploration of Abersoch’s stunning shores and coastline, be sure to treat yourself to ice cream at Two Islands, a artisanal ice cream parlour recently crowned as one of Wales’ finest frozen dessert destinations.

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Both residents and visitors have been singing the praises of this delightful ice cream haven since its 2018 launch, and the Sunday Times has now bestowed its official endorsement. Their journalists declared it amongst the premier locations for a cornet and advised readers, “Don’t miss the raspberry ripple.”

Jack Pollitt from Two Islands Ice Cream in Abersoch
Jack Pollitt from Two Islands Ice Cream in Abersoch(Image: Daily Post Wales)

This artisanal ice cream parlour crafts their frozen treats on the premises using regional and natural components, including Welsh free-range eggs and organic and fair-trade ingredients sourced from SUMA, a cooperative that champions exemplary and equitable employment practices. Taking a leaf out of the book from ice cream parlours they visited on the west coast of America, this small enterprise is on a mission to whip up indulgent textures and innovative flavours, all with a nod to their Welsh roots.

Their dynamic menu is a testament to their commitment to seasonal produce, but rest assured, you’ll always encounter a quirky twist on some classic favourites. The Salted Coffee flavour is a hit among Two Islands fans, boasting a unique fusion of Coaltown espresso and HALEN MôN sea salt, while the mascarpone and blackcurrant combo becomes an instant highlight whenever it features.

Two Islands doesn’t just serve up delicious treats; they’re also dedicated to green practices: “Everything they are involved in – from pod picking to package recycling – is as sustainable, ethical and conscientious as possible.”

Proudly proclaiming on their website, “We use real vanilla from LITTLE POD,” they celebrate the independent company’s recognition with the Queen’s Enterprise Award for sustainability.

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