After our holiday to Portugal was cancelled due to the pandemic, we booked a last-minute break for four nights in Snowdonia. We have spent many holidays in South Wales but it was our first time travelling further North. With breath-taking mountain scenery, waterfalls and a rugged coastline, it is perfect for an action-packed family holiday.
Day 1
Travelling from the South West, we stopped in the town of Bala with its beautiful lake. Located on the outskirts of Snowdonia, it’s ideal for a coffee break with various cafes and pubs to choose from. As you enter the national park area, the heather covered mountains will blow you away.
As we couldn’t check into our accommodation until late afternoon, we headed to Harlech for the day. It is a lovely coastal town backed by mountains and Harlech castle sits majestically above the long sandy beach. After grabbing a sandwich at Llew Glas Cafe we made our way down the cobbled streets and through the dunes on to the beach. The water was lovely and warm with gentle waves and the sands stretch out for miles.
After a great day, we made our way to the Hafan y Mor Haven site in Pwllheli. Only 30 minutes from Snowdonia National Park and around the same to the spectacular beaches of the Llyn Peninsula, it offered the best of both worlds. Due to COVID we didn’t fully experience the facilities but were really happy with our choice. As it was still pretty warm, we decided to head down to the small pebble beach on the site and have a dip. Our caravan was clean and comfy and had everything we needed to cook. Although the pool wasn’t open, there were plenty of activities available from high ropes courses to adventure golf as well as a great kids’ play area. Our children loved the junior segway activity.
Day 2
After being spoilt with blue skies and warm sunshine the day before, we woke to storm Francis battering our caravan. With limited indoor options, we braved it and ventured out on a refreshing coastal walk near Morfa Nefyn. First stop was Caffi Porthdinllaen next to the car park serving good coffees and hot chocolates. Taking you along the beach with its blue slate rockpools and then up on to the headland with fantastic views across the bay, it was worth it even in gale force winds. Find the full route details here.
Day 3
The next day the ever-changing weather was sunny and warm so we made the most of it and visited Aberdaron for the day. Another coastal walk, followed by crab sandwiches at one of the village cafes and body boarding on the slate grey sandy beach.
We followed the National Trust Porth Meudwy coastal walk which takes you up on to the coastal path with sweeping views over the beach below. This circular walk then takes you through beautiful countryside and farmland. We were even lucky enough to spot a white barn owl flying from its nest. The beach at Aberdaron had the perfect waves for body boarding and backed by a few shops, you don’t have far to go for an ice cream.
Day 4
On our last day we were keen to explore some of Snowdonia National Park. As you travel inland, the towering dark slate mountains that encompass you are incredible. We started our day at the Llechwedd Deep Mine. As the funicular train was out of order, we ventured down the 200 steps into the mine just as the miners would have done. Our tour guide, along with brilliant special effects, brought it to life and gave us an insight into the harsh and gruelling conditions of being a miner. To finish off the tour, we were taken to an underground lake where a deeply moving show was displayed using light projection.
Around 40 minutes’ drive along spectacular mountain roads and we were at Ogwen Cottage car park ready to start our walk around Cwm Idwal. Following the path through the mist with boulders, waterfalls and mountains surrounding you, you eventually come to the crystal clear waters of Llyn Idwal. The children loved skimming stones along the water and climbing up the boulders. Emily loved the wild ponies grazing beside the lake too.
As we arranged the trip at late notice, we were unable to book any of the activities at Zip World but would love to when we visit again. Split over three locations, they offer a range of exciting activities for all ages from underground trampolines, high ropes challenges and a forest rollercoaster. It is also home to the world’s fastest zipline where you can enjoy the views of Penrhyn Quarry at speeds of over 100mph. We were also keen to try gorge scrambling but the weather was too stormy. Climbing through canyons, sliding down natural water chutes and plunging into pools, it looks great fun for kids and adults alike. Click here for a list of providers. Many offer tailored activities to suit all ages and abilities.
Just a short drive from our caravan site was the town of Criccieth. This understated Victorian seaside town was ideal for an evening walk past the illuminated medieval castle and along the seafront followed by fish and chips on the beach. Cadwaladers ice cream parlour with its castle and sea views do the most amazing sundaes and waffles.
Fam Full of Wanderlust 