If you’re looking to disconnect from the virtual world and reconnect with the real world, Snowdonia could be the perfect spot for your UK getaway. Boasting sweeping mountains, surf-friendly swells and a truly charming selection of villages, it makes a brilliant case for the rise of the staycation. So, you’ve already chosen your private holiday cottage in Snowdonia and got a group together – now it’s time to plan your itinerary with our top things to do in Snowdonia.
Yr Wyddfa
The official name for Mount Snowdon, Yr Wyddfa is probably the main reason for your visit – so it’s important to make sure that you plan your route in advance. There are a variety available depending on your age and ability, with options for hiking, cycling and more leisurely walking if you’ve got older ones or kids along for the trip.
Dating back to over 450 million years ago, the mountain boasts a wide variety of terrains, wildlife and jawdropping views – so you should have your cameras at the ready as well as a sturdy pair of boots! Walking with a four-legged friend? We’ve got dog-friendly holiday cottages in Snowdonia too.
King Arthur’s Labyrinth
Medieval fans will be in for a treat here: the influence of King Arthur is heavily apparent throughout Snowdonia. Several caves are claimed to be where he slept before he and his men were called to save Wales, while Lake Llydaw, Dinas and Ogwen are all said to hold the Excalibur.
If you’re looking for a truly unique family activity in Snowdonia, King Arthur’s Labyrinth allows you to journey underground beneath the mountains, through a waterfall and around winding tunnels. The Dragon River awaits at the end – will you escape its claws?
Castle Visits
The medieval appeal doesn’t start and end with King Arthur – one of the best things to do in Snowdonia is take in the region’s many impressive castles. After the Roman Empire collapsed, the Vikings, Anglo Saxons and Normans all came to the area, with Princess Gwynedd having the largest impact on the land. Her aim was to protect them from future invasion, with Criccieth, Dolbadarn and Dolwyddelan Castle among those that are still standing today.
Beddgelert
Snowdonia is filled with charming villages to while away an afternoon, perhaps people-watching, browsing local shops, or enjoying a meal in one of the quaint cafes. Beddgelert is undoubtedly one of the most popular, not just because of its picturesque houses and cobblestone streets but its renowned folk-tale history.
The story goes that Gelert the dog was wrongfully accused of slaying Prince Llywelyn the Great’s newborn son. The grief-stricken royal pierced the faithful hound through his heart, but then discovered that actually, Gelert had defended the young prince from a wolf who lay dead nearby. Visitors now can visit Gelert’s grave, even though the stone only dates back a couple hundred years – and the legend is from the 13th century!
Should you wish to make Beddgelert just one stop on your tour of the area, the Welsh Highland Railway also runs through the village, allowing you to head to your next location in the most idyllic way.
Welsh Food
After a long day spent hiking, exploring and learning, you’ve certainly earned yourself a treat or two. Luckily, Welsh food is traditionally hearty and warming. For example, Welsh rarebit sees a cheese sauce loaded with beer and mustard spread over thick-cut bread, sometimes even topped with an egg.
Meat eaters should definitely not pass up the chance to try some fresh-cut Welsh lamb but, no matter your age, a Welsh cake is something everyone can agree on. A thinner take on the classic scone, these come filled with currants and sweet spices and are made to be eaten with lashings of jam and cream. However, one of our favourite things to do in Snowdonia is to take some to go and head out to explore, allowing the sugary pocket-sized treat to fuel you for the day of adventures ahead.
So there you have it: our top things to do in Snowdonia. Ready to find your perfect luxury cottage or holiday home in Snowdonia? Check out the full collection and then contact our concierge team to start your planning process. And if you’re looking to unplug somewhere else around the world, check out our top villas for a digital detox.
