North Wales is a magnificent region, with a strong Welsh culture, a fascinating history manifesting itself in its castles and gardens, and a coast which boasts fine beaches and a rich wildlife.
The crowning glory of North Wales is Snowdonia, a glorious landscape of craggy peaks and awe-inspiring coast. Snowdon, the highest point in Wales, is surprisingly accessible. Visitors can choose between taking on the hike to the top or enjoying the views from the mountain railway. It’s not North Wales’ only peak, however. Cadair Idris, Tryfan, Y Garn and Moel Siabod to name but a handful of the others are also popular with visitors. Thrill-seekers will enjoy soaring over the Penrhyn Quarry on a zip line at Zip World Velocity, while more traditional adrenalin junkies will find no end of adventurous pursuits, from surfing and white-water rafting to climbing and canyoning.
The Llŷn Peninsula offers a stretch of coast with something for everyone. The serene, golden sandy beach of Llanbedrog, the water sports paradise of Abersoch, the ‘whistling sands’ of Porthor, dainty towns and villages of Porthdinllaen, Criccieth and Pwllheli and the birdwatcher’s paradise of Porth Meudwy; every day of your holiday will be filled with something different. Bardsey Island can be reached by boat from Aberdaron or Pwllheli. A tiny island which is home to a disproportionate amount of wildlife, from Manx shearwaters to grey seals basking on the shore.
Tucked into the crook below the Llŷn Peninsula, the little village of Portmeirion is unique in many respects. Arty and quaint, it has been designed as a tourist resort but despite its quirkiness, it has avoided becoming a tacky attraction.
The Isle of Anglesey is connected to the north west of Wales by the Menai suspension bridge and offers a whole host of interesting sights and attractions for visitors. Visit the inspiring Beaumaris castle, take a stroll along the coast path keeping your eyes peeled for birds and wildlife and explore the standing stones and burial mounds which reveal the island’s ancient history.
In north east Wales, the landscape changes again, the striking Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a must-see, while the Ceirog Valley and Clwydian Range offer wonderful walking routes. The coast here offers plenty for families at Rhyl and Prestatyn, and the Offa’s Dyke Path presents yet more in the way of scenic walking terrain.
If it’s true seaside resorts you’re looking for, Llandudno and Colwyn Bay won’t fail to disappoint. With the Great Orme Tramway, Conwy Castle, Welsh Mountain Zoo and spectacular Llandudno Pier, there’s more than enough to keep everyone in the family entertained.
With so much adventure on the cards, a comfortable and spacious cottage to base your group holiday is a must. We’ve got a wonderful selection of large holiday homes in North Wales with something to suit everyone.