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Southern Snowdonia - Mid Wales
To describe southern Snowdonia as simply an area of outstanding beauty is an understatement. The sheer scale of the scenery; mountains and lakes, the scope of the vistas and the glacial valleys, betray an awe inspiring majesty that speaks of legends and ancient forces. The landscape harbours not only a unique geology, but a rich diversity of wildlife.
SouthernSnowdonia is an eden for outdoor adventure seekers, a haven for those who value clean air in their lungs and the raw earth beneath their feet. Every sort of outdoor pursuit is available and a great starting point can be found at Coed-y-Brenin Visitor Centre. Towns and villages offer respite and relaxation, history and hospitality.
Harlech, Barmouth and Aberdovey hug the Mid Wales coastline; their picturesque streets open out onto award winning beaches cast in the shadow of the nearby mountains.
Dolgellau, Blaenau Ffestiniog and Bala nestle at the feet of these slopes, their histories woven between livelihood and landscape. No trip to the area would be complete without a visit to the famous Portmeirion Village or Harlech Castle, a World Heritage site.
Places to Stay in Southern Snowdonia
Discover this area of outstanding beauty ...
‘Men of Harlech on to glory, This will ever be your story, Keep these burning words before ye, Welshmen will not yield’, or so the song goes.
The song dates back to a seven year siege of Harlech Castle in the 15th century, but the Castle itself has a much longer history. Whilst its origins are marred in the myth of Princess Branwen and tales of endless feasting, recorded history remembers it as the scene of many a bloody battle.
Harlech Castle has witnessed some of the most momentous periods of British History but has remained remarkably well preserved in spite of them. Today it is a designated Unesco World Heritage Site.
Home to some of the most famous mountain ranges in Britain and the source of inspiration for a nation, Snowdonia National Park acquired its status in 1951 making it the second oldest in Britain. From the windswept peaks of mount Snowdon, to the balmy shores of lake Bala, the Snowdonia National Park is a truly diverse dominion. Aside from the spectacular landscape and all its associated pleasures, the Park also includes the warm hospitality of its inhabitants, their charming towns, ancient cultures and excellent local produce.
Designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis in 1925, Portmerion Village was built in imitation of a rustic Italian village. Sitting at the feet of Snowdonia it makes for a charming dislocation that is truly unique. Portmeirion’s place in popular culture has been set in stone as a result. The iconic sixties spy drama, The Prisoner, led to an avalanche of programmes using the village of Portmeirion as a setting, and many more as an inspiration (Jools Holland, Noel Coward, Paul McCartney, Steven Fry, Supergrass and Iron Maiden are just a few names on that roll call). Previously the village had entertained Frank Lloyd Wright, Gregory Peck and Ingrid Bergman, making Portmeirion undoubtedly the jewel in the glittering crown of Snowdonia.
Helmau Cottages
Helmau Cottages are situated 2 miles from Dolgellau within the Snowdonia National Park, and just 10 minutes walk direct to the spectacular waterfalls at Torrent Walk and near to Coed Y Brenin mountain-bike centre.
Self-catering with 3 units, £600-£2100 pupw sleeps 2-8
Dolffanog Fach
Situated at the heart of Snowdonia, Dolffanog Fach nestles by the side of Talyllyn lake and at the foot of the awe inspiring mountain of Cadair Idris. A welcoming and restful retreat, away from the strains of everyday life.
Guest Accommodation with 4 rooms, £80-£120 prpnb
Cartref Guest House
Cartref is a stylish and comfortable guest House in the picturesque sea side village of Aberdovey. Our aim is to provide 4* comforts on a small scale for the visitor who wants restful, contemporary interiors while still enjoying the charm
Guest House with 5 rooms, £45-£115 prpnb
Cynfal Farm Cottages
A perfect holiday location for couples or families seeking something rather special. Three luxury self catering accommodations.
Self-catering with 3 units, £275-£690 pupw sleeps 2-6
Preswylfa Guest House
Family run guest house, within easy walking distance of all amenities. We have a luxury double, twin and single room. We also have a guest lounge. We serve a full Welsh breakfast.
Guest House with 3 rooms, £39-£115 prpnb
The Old Rectory on the Lake
The Old Rectory stands on the edge of Lake Talyllyn and enjoys spectacular views. Luxurious B&B accomodation. Standing in the foothills of Cader Idris, The Old Rectory attracts walkers, fishermen, mountain bikers & all outdoor enthusiasts.
Bed & Breakfast with 4 rooms, £85-£120 prpnb
Bryn Elltyd
ECO....Bryn Elltyd is carbon neutral. All energy inputs from renewables, located in the heart of the Snowdonia National Park at the foot of the Moelwyn mountains, this is an ideal location to explore North Wales.
Guest House with 6 rooms, £50-£92 prpnb
Vanner Holiday Cottages
Semi-detached cottages, stone built, 17th century listed buildings, situated on the banks of the river Mawddach, within a conservation area which includes 15th century Vanner Farm House & Cymer Abbey.
Self-catering with 2 units, £375-£565 pupw sleeps 1-5
Ty Derw
Ty Derw is a charming Victorian stone built house in a picturesque setting in the Dovey Valley about 12 miles from Machynlleth and Dolgellau. The four guest rooms have been refurbished to a very high standard. Ample parking.
Guest Accommodation with 4 rooms, £45-£55 pppnb
Bythynnod Bryn Caled Cottages
Three barn conversions with private hot tubs out side each cottage. Perfect country holiday for families and romantic couples.
Self-catering with 3 units, £575-£1905 pupw sleeps 2-7
Beautiful Wales
Set in open countryside of Llanaber, just a mile out of Barmouth. Both barns have sweeping panoramic views of the beach, sea and both penninsulars. Ceilwart Ganol Farm is an equestrian property with free range poultry. Pet friendly
Self-catering with 2 units, £479-£1400 pupw sleeps 1-4
Dolffanog Fawr
Dolffanog Fawr offers truly luxurious accommodation in the heart of Snowdonia.
Guest Accommodation with 4 rooms, £100-£120 prpnb
Dolgoch Holiday Homes
A group of 4 split-level homes built on the site of an old water mill. Minutes walk from the foot of Dolgoch Falls. Each is individually owned. Ideal location for walking, fishing, birdwatching, golf, steam-railways, water sports & beaches.
Self-catering with 4 units, £245-£775 pupw sleeps 1-8
Tyddyn Mawr
This carefully restored & extended 18th Century farmhouse lies at the foot of Cader Idris mountain in Southern Snowdonia. Breathtaking scenery and superb mountain views.
Farmhouse with 2 rooms, £86 prpnb
Hendy Farm Cottages
A warm welcome awaits you at Hendy, situated in the Snowdonia National Park. Enjoy Self Catering accommodation on a working farm with the privilege of its own halt on the Talyllyn Narrow Gauge Railway.
Self-catering with 5 units, £210-£49500 pupw sleeps 1-6
Torrent Walk Campsite and Bunkhouse
Torrent Walk Campsite sits on the outskirts of Dolgellau, Snowdonia and enjoys views of Cadair Idris. We allow campfires and prices start at £9.50 per adult and £4.50 for children. Electric hook-up NOT included in price when booking.
Touring & Camping Park with 101 pitches, £19 ptpn
Dolgun Uchaf
All luxury en-suite rooms with free car parking and fast fre Wi-Fi
Guest House with 4 rooms, £57-£67 pppn, £74-£121 prpnb
Glandwr Mill Cottage
An enchanting Mill Cottage (within Snowdonia National Park). Beautiful country house, within 4 acres of beautiful terraced gardens. Through which the Dwynant river flows. Less than 2 miles from Barmouth.
Self-catering with 1 unit, £330-£550 pupw sleeps 2-4
Einion House
Scenic Views to Sea - 4 star Georgian B&B, Southern Snowdonia, nr Dolgellau opposite Barmouth. Beach 5mins walk from B&B. The Mawddach Trail, Wales Coastal Path, Blue Lake, & Sensational sunsets. Great Walks & Cycle trails.
Guest House with 5 rooms, £33-£44 pppnb
Hendy Farm Holidays
A warm welcome awaits you at Hendy, situated in the Snowdonia National Park. Enjoy Bed and Breakfast on a working farm with the privilege of its own halt on the Talyllyn Narrow Gauge Railway!
Farmhouse with 3 rooms, £35-£40 pppnb
Southern Snowdonia Highlights..
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Walking in Southern Snowdonia
Dinas Oleu Walk
Barmouth/Abermaw, Southern Snowdonia, LL42 1NE
The Dinas Oleu Walk takes you from Barmouth town centre through the steep narrow winding streets of the Old Town and up to the top of the gorse-covered hill, known as Dinas Oleu (Citadel of Light).
Mary Jones Walk
Bala & Penllyn, Gwynedd, LL23 7AD
By following this linear route, you will walk 28 miles through the spectacular countryside of the old county of Meirionnydd, from an enchanting valley at the foot of Cadair Idris to the shores of Llyn Tegid.
Walking Trails
Bala & Penllyn, Gwynedd, LL23 7AD
A choice of Walking Trails for everyone – including: all ability, children, heritage, scenic and mountain walks. All through stunning mountain and lake scenery of southern Snowdonia, wildlife in abundance and Wildlife Guide available.
Afon Eden Trail
Coed y Brenin Visitor Centre (NRW), Ganllwyd, Dolgellau, Gwynedd, LL40 2HZ
Take this gentle route suitable for all from the visitor centre down through scent-filled woodlands to the riverside picnic site. OS Grid Reference: SH 725 268
Cefndeuddwr Trail
Coed y Brenin Visitor Centre (NRW), Ganllwyd, Dolgellau, Gwynedd, LL40 2HZ
This is a gently rising walk for all the family and suitable for pushchairs with resting benches at least every 150m. There are no steep steps or stiles. OS Grid Reference: SH 725 268
Forest Garden Discovery Trail
Coed y Brenin Visitor Centre (NRW), Ganllwyd, Dolgellau, Gwynedd, LL40 2HZ
The Forest Garden Discovery Trail starts from a blue badge only Pandy car park by the side of the Afon Babi. OS Grid Reference: SH 744225
Gain Waterfall Trail
Coed y Brenin Visitor Centre (NRW), Ganllwyd, Dolgellau, Gwynedd, LL40 2HZ
The Gain waterfall trail starts from the visitor centre and climbs over the ridge before dropping into the next valley and descending to the confluence of the Afon Gain and Mawddach with their twin waterfalls. OS Grid Reference: SH 725 272
Glasdir Copper Trail
Coed y Brenin Visitor Centre (NRW), Ganllwyd, Dolgellau, Gwynedd, LL40 2HZ
The Glasdir Copper Trail starts from the small car park and picnic site in Glasdir between the Afon Wen and Afon Babi. OS Grid Reference: SH 716 277
Volcano Trail
Coed y Brenin Visitor Centre (NRW), Ganllwyd, Dolgellau, Gwynedd, LL40 2HZ
The Volcano Trail starts from the car park at Pont Cae’n y Coed and visits some of the most remote and highest areas of the Forest Park. OS Grid Reference: SH 733251
The Mawddach Trail
Mawddach Estuary, Southern Snowdonia, LL40 2TA
The walk along the estuary from Barmouth to Dolgellau is 9.6 miles (15km). This easy leisure walk is suitable for all the family and involves no climbing. A section of the trail has been adapted for people with disabilities.
Llyn Barfog Walk
Tywyn, Gwynedd, LL36 0DF
Start: Snowdonia National Park Authority car park, Cwm Maethlon/Happy Valley Grid Reference: SN 640 986 Distance: 5 km - 3.1 miles (shortcut 4 km – 2.5 miles) Grade: Moderate Terrain: Open moorland, firm tracks, fields and tarmac road.
Dinas Mawddwy Walk
Dinas Mawddwy, Gwynedd, LL49 9LP
Start: Dinas Mawddwy village car park Grid Reference: SH 858 150 Distance: 3.4 km - 2.1 miles Grade: Easy Terrain: Riverside walk along grassy paths and firm tracks Maps: OS Explorer - OL 23
Explore Southern Snowdonia
Late availability
| Preswylfa Guest House, Tywyn | £39.00 |
| Ty Derw, Dinas-Mawddwy | £45.00 |
| Torrent Walk Campsite and Bunkhouse, Dolgellau | £19.00 |
| Dolgun Uchaf, Dolgellau | £35.33 |
| Einion House, Fairbourne | £33.00 |
| Cader View & Arran Cottage, Dolgellau | £735.00 |
| Aber Cottage Guesthouse, Dolgellau | £40.00 |
| Ynysymaengwyn Caravan Park, Tywyn | £15.00 |
| Tyddyn Rhys Farm, Aberdovey | £37.50 |
| Dinas Caravan Park, Llanbedr | £28.00 |
| Cefn Crib Caravan Park, Aberdovey | £10.00 |
| Dinas Camping, Llanbedr | £18.00 |
| Camping Pods @ Hideaway in the Hills, Llanbedr | £280.00 |
| Nyth Robin Campsite, Aberdovey | £36.00 |
| Fron Haul, Aberdovey | £32.50 |
