Betws-Y-Coed

Apart from being one of the most beautiful places in the British Isles at the head of the Royal Valley (Conwy Valley), Betws-y-Coed and North Wales has so much to offer, from fabulous scenery, technical mountain biking trails and climbing, to walking, kayaking/canoeing and horse riding. There’s also fishing, quad biking, underground mine activities, gorge walking, fabulous coastal scenery, sailing, surfing, sea kayaking, kite surfing/buggying and motor sports. It really does have all the activities you could wish for.

Betws-y-Coed lies at the confluence of four stunningly beautiful forested valleys and their rivers which have produced a dramatic landscape. There are tumbling waterfalls and rivers and the huge Gwydir Forest with a host of tranquil lakes surrounding the village. Many trails, both walking and mountain biking, start from the village and suit all abilities, from strolls along the riverside to steep climbs into and above the forest with magnificent views of the majestic mountains of Snowdonia.

When it comes to places to eat and drink, try Siabod Café, Capel Curig. The top menu choice has to be homemade scone, jam and cream (best to take a long walk first, to build up an appetite for this!) Caffi Caban y Pair for a variety of teas and homemade cakes, as well as Plas Penaeldroch, Dolwyddelan which offers homemade soup and cheese scones, homemade cake, and hot chocolate with all the trimmings!