Snowdonia is the perfect destination for an action-packed family day out whatever the time of year. In summer, it offers ample opportunities for watersports and hiking in a beautiful natural setting; in winter, it morphs into one of the UK’s major ski destinations, with numerous ski trails and snow-tube operators operating daily. Snowdonia straddles the counties of Gwynedd and Caernarfon.
Llanberis
Most of us associate Snowdonia with the towering peak of Mount Snowdon, but Llanberis is actually the largest town in the region. You can start your Snowdonia day out with a visit to the National Slate Museum, which has the largest collection of slate items in the world, including some beautiful examples carved into slate puzzles. The National Slate Museum has a great café, with a play area and outdoor seating, so you can relax with a nice warm drink while the kids have fun. From Llanberis, you can easily hike to Snowdon. You can also take the Llanberis path up to Snowdon, which is a gentler climb than the main Snowdon path. It takes about 3 hours and is a great way for children to build up leg strength for the big ascent.
Porthmadog
One of the most fascinating towns in Snowdonia, Porthmadog was once a thriving port. The quarries in the surrounding area were a major source of employment, and their output was shipped down the river to the sea. But when the quarries were closed in the 1950s, the port fell into disuse and eventually closed. In the 1990s, the town was saved by the Welsh Highland Railway, which runs from the town to Caernarfon. The town has been transformed by this addition, and visitors can now arrive by train and explore this fascinating town. There are several nearby attractions, including the Penrhyn Castle, the Blaenau Ffestiniog Slate Museum, and the National Trust-owned Eisteddfod of Wales, where the Welsh National Poetry Competition is held every year.
Portmeirion
Well known as the setting for the TV series The Prisoner, Portmeirion is a whimsical resort and garden created by architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. This architectural curiosity has five areas representing different cultures and periods, from ancient Greece to the Paris Exposition of 1937. It is perhaps most famous for its gardens, which are a delight in every season. Children will love the outdoor swimming pool and playground, which is open all year round. There are also family rooms available for those who want to spend a night at Portmeirion.
Beddgelert
Beddgelert is a charming and distinctive village in the heart of Snowdonia. It is most famous for its spectacular and charmingly named Fairy Bridge, which is a Medieval bridge built in the 15th Century. The bridge was built to cross the river beside the village, and there is a small trail leading to the bridge from the village. Beddgelert also has a charming National Trust shop, where you can pick up a unique souvenir of your visit. The village is also home to the renowned YHA Snowdonia hostel, where you can stay as you explore the region.
Betws-y-Coed
Betws-y-Coed is one of the best-known villages in all of Wales. It is a popular destination for day-trippers from across the country, and its narrow streets can be very busy on a sunny weekend. But whatever you do, don’t miss out on the incredible view from the nearby castle. The castle is set on a high rocky outcrop overlooking the river below and the Snowdonia National Park beyond. You can walk to the castle along the famous Conwy trail, which is a popular route for walkers of all abilities.
Bala
Bala is a charming and picturesque town that is perfect for an easy family day out. The town is famous for its grotto, which is a beautifully ornate and mysterious artificial cave. There are also several nearby waterfalls, which are great for a short walk to the river. Nearby, there is also the Bala Heritage and Culture Centre. This is a great way to learn more about the history of the region, and the center has a fantastic play area for kids.
Barmouth
Barmouth is an attractive coastal town that is a great place to start a family day out in Snowdonia. The town is famed for its bridge, which spans the estuary and has an observation deck at the top that is perfect for taking photos. Barmouth is also home to the Snowdonia Discovery Centre. This is a great way to learn more about the region, and the center has a fantastic play area for kids.
Dolgellau
Dolgellau is a charming town with a rich and fascinating history. It is a great place to explore on foot, and there are several attractions you can visit while you are in town. One of the most interesting places to visit is the nearby Cei Wnion (pronounced Kee Win-ion), a hill fort that is believed to be one of the last remaining Celtic forts in Wales. You can also visit the Dolgellau Castle, which is one of the few castles in Wales that is still in its original location.
Activities for adults and kids in Snowdonia
When you think of a mountain vacation, you might automatically think of outdoor sports. Well, Snowdonia is one of the best places in the UK to pursue them. There are plenty of outdoor activities to try out on your vacation - whatever time of year it may be!
Hiking on the trails of Snowdonia National Park
If you’re looking for a family-friendly walk, then Snowdonia National Park may be the place for you. There are lots of easy hikes for families, such as the Llanberis path to Snowdon, the Rhyd Ddu path to the nearby peak Pen y Cyrn, and the Bont y Gron path to the village of Glyn-y-Weddw. For a more challenging trail, head to Tryfan, where you can attempt the famous traverse (which involves climbing the steep sides of the mountain) or an easier trail. Trails are clearly signposted, so it’s easy to find the one for your group.
Watersports on and around Snowdon - including canoeing!
If you’re a little less active, you can still take part in plenty of water-based activities in and near Snowdon. The surrounding lakes are perfect for canoeing, while the nearby Conwy River is great for raft building and duck boarding. If the weather is stormy, you can also visit the indoor Snowdonia Marina in Conwy, which has over 100 boats, including electric boats and canoes. If you don’t have your own, you can even hire a pedal boat and pedal around the lakes.
The best places to eat in Snowdonia
When it comes to a place to eat in Snowdonia, you’ll have plenty of choices. There are plenty of restaurants that serve hearty breakfasts, lunches, and dinners for the whole family to enjoy. Alternatively, you can pick up a picnic from any of the local shops. The best places to eat in Snowdonia are:
- Tryp - for classic Welsh cuisine, including lamb, fish and chips, and leek and potato
- The Old Bridge - for a French twist on traditional dishes
- Oak and Ash - for a modern twist on classic dishes
- Oak and Apple - for classic English dishes
- Bistro 1881 - for French dishes
- The Golden Goose - for traditional and modern Welsh dishes
- The Pyg Inn - for English and traditional Welsh dishes
- The Felin Fach - for traditional Welsh dishes
- The Bala Inn - for hearty Welsh food
- The Rhug Inn - for classic English dishes