North Wales is a gorgeous place to visit with beautiful coastlines, mountains, and forests. In the town of Caernarfon you can enjoy the world-famous castle. While in Snowdonia you can hike Snowdon, Wales’ tallest mountain. This blog post will highlight 5 hidden gems in North Wales, while staying here, why not sleep at a caernarfon hotel?
What you need to know
North Wales has some hidden gems for all to enjoy. Explore Aberdaron, Betws-y-Coed, Llandudno and many more with these great tips.
This post covers 5 gems of North Wales that not many know about. It includes tourist destinations as well as parks and trails which are definitely worth checking out if you have time to explore North Wales.
1) Caernarfon Castle
Caernarfon Castle is located at Caernarfon, on an island in Caernarfon Bay. It was built as part of Edward I’s ring of stone castles to help enforce his conquest of Wales. Probably built on site because it was already strategically important and taking advantage of local building materials and expertise. The stone castle, within earth and timber ramparts, guarded by six large round towers, with magnificent views overlooking coastal lagoons and mountains around Snowdonia National Park.
2) Snowdonia National Park
Snowdonia National Park is one of the National Parks in Wales and covers over 10% of Gwynedd.
Within Snowdonia are Glyder Fach and Glyder Fawr, two peaks known as the Dogs that stand guard at Llyn Eigiau between Nant Peris and Beddgelert. Snowdon, at 3,560 ft or 1,085 m high – is also found within its boundaries.
3) Ffestiniog Railway
The Ffestiniog Railway is one of three heritage railways running out of Porthmadog, and it’s also one of two narrow gauge lines. The line was built to transport slate from the quarries near Blaenau Ffestiniog to Portmadoc for shipping abroad. It’s located on what might be called Snowdonia’s mini mountain railway circuit.
4) Betws-y-Coed
The town of Betws-y-Coed is set in beautiful countryside and is an ideal place to explore. There are wonderful mountain walks to enjoy as well as shorter walks which offer great views for all levels of walker.
If you want more strenuous walks there are plenty to choose from with easy access from Betws-y-Coed including Moel Penamnen Snowdon and Dolbadarn. The Roman Bridge that spans across Elwy river is another notable attraction and there are many other points of interest including Erddig Hall.
5) The Black Boy Inn Caernarfon
A popular pub, restaurant and live music venue. The building has been used for hundreds of years. Expect to find more than 50 types of whisky on offer with six hand pumps serving real ale at all times. A quirky spot for delicious Welsh food in beautiful surroundings.
Conclusion
North Wales is filled with hidden gems from coast to countryside. The RSPB Conwy Nature Reserve, at over 10,000 acres, is one of Europe’s best birdwatching destinations. With wide-open skies and scenic views across Snowdonia National Park, head to Coed y Brenin Forest Park for some quiet time. Head east for sweeping coastal walks with glorious views of Lleyn Peninsula and Bardsey Island. Or venture inland for some exhilarating mountain biking. Take time to explore all that North Wales has to offer – you won’t be disappointed!
