Slow down in Snowdonia. Arafu yn Eryri

Relaxation - It's on your doorstep

I feel so content and present when I see the stunning landscape of Snowdonia National Park emerge into view on the drive up from South Wales. The summer season is when Wales is at its most green, and amongst all this greenery in Snowdonia are some lovely places to relax and unwind.

Fancy a cuppa?

I’d highly recommend spending a day strolling through Betws-y-Coed and calling into the Ugly House for a scrumptious lunch and cream tea. The Ugly House is the sister tearoom to Tu Hwnt i’r Bont in Llanrwst, but it seems to be less well known, perhaps due to its more secluded location, which I feel makes it all the more special. Complete your day with a drive down to Beddgelert where you can treat yourself to ice cream and take a gentle walk along the river. 

A photographers dream

Portmeirion is an Italian-style village on the edge of the National Park near Porthmadog. It has to be one of Wales’s prettiest places to photograph for Instagram - the architecture, landscape gardens, and coastal walks could be compared to places in the Mediterranean. The village and coastal paths have plenty of areas for you to sit back and admire the views, so plan ahead as they currently request booking your ticket in advance. 

Choo, chug, and chuff

Taking a steam train ride from Porthmadog is a lovely way to experience the beautiful landscape of Snowdonia. The route to Tan-y-Bwlch takes you up into the hills with glimpses of the river valley below. From Tan-y-Bwlch you can walk down to a lovely picnic spot by a lake before you make the return journey back to Porthmadog. 
On June 10th and 11th, there will be a festival called ‘Cwrw ar y Cledrau’ (Rail Ale Festival) where you can expect live music and local ales.

Time for a rest

If you love the idea of a relaxing glamping holiday or cottage by the sea in Wales then look to stay near the sandy beach by Harlech, a town known for its impressive hilltop castle. Further south on the border of the National Park is the lovely harbour town of Barmouth, an ideal location for ice cream and fish & chips by the sea from Harbour Fish Bar. 

For couples, there are a few spas dotted around the area, including at Portmeirion - and currently, if you book a spa treatment there you also get entry into the village included. 

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