Are you planning your holiday in Eryri | Snowdonia and North Wales and looking for the best accommodation and places to stay and visit?
In 2024 our beautiful region will again be high on the list of destinations for holidays, weekend short breaks and staycations!
The stunning landscapes, diverse scenery, historical sights and amazing variety of unique adventure activities draw people to North Wales from all over the UK, Europe and increasingly the rest of the world.
Definitely visit “The Smallest House in Great Britain” in Conwy during your holiday in North Wales!
As for locations for your holiday we have it all - pretty mountain villages and quiet rural idylls, cute seaside towns, bustling coastal resorts, and the up-and-coming city of Wrexham with its newly famous football club!
Great transport connections make North Wales easily accessible from the rest of the UK and Europe, so it really is perfect for your getaway.
Once here excellent road, rail and bus links - along with scenic roads perfect for cycling - make it easy to tour and get around, even if you are travelling and exploring without a car.
Llyn Geirionydd near our B&B in Trefriw is one of many spectacular lakes in Eryri | Snowdonia!
We look at the following places to stay in Eryri | Snowdonia and North Wales in more detail :
Trefriw, Llanrwst & Betws-y-Coed in the Conwy Valley
Conwy
Llandudno
Anglesey
Dolgellau, Machynlleth & Southern Eryri | Snowdonia
Llanberis
Abersoch & The Llŷn Peninsula
Llangollen
Click here for a larger version of our map
There is a wide variety of accommodation to choose from in all of these locations, including Crafnant House - our B&B in Trefriw near Betws-y-Coed!
Discover more about our B&B ⮕
We have also listed below other accommodation providers that we know well and can heartily recommend, or have been suggested to us by friends, family and previous guests!
So if you are planning your holiday and are looking for :
scenic campsites for families
romantic luxury hotels for couples
stylish, boutique B&Bs
traditional guest houses
funky, cool hostels
cosy self-catering holiday cottages and Airbnbs
pubs and inns with rooms
quirky glamping sites and pods
… then you will definitely find in Eryri | Snowdonia and North Wales a fantastic choice of special and unique places to stay to suit all budgets!
And if you need any help or advice planning your tour or trip please do get in touch - we’ll gladly assist you in any way we can!
Planning your North Wales holiday?
Book Crafnant House - our boutique B&B in Eryri | Snowdonia - here!
Booking direct with us saves you money!
You always get a lower rate than anywhere else!
The Best Places To Stay In Eryri | Snowdonia and North Wales!
Here then are our recommendations for the best locations and destinations to stay in - including of course our own village, Trefriw - if you are planning a trip to this magical part of Wales, along with our accommodation tips.
If you are coming for longer than a few days then maybe combine a few different places and do a tour in order to have the most enjoyable holiday possible!
See our suggested itinerary for your perfect North Wales holiday at the end, along with our advice about when to visit.
1. The Conwy Valley
The picturesque Conwy Valley is packed with beautiful scenery, pretty towns and villages and exciting activities, and is right in the heart of North Wales!
When choosing where to stay Llanrwst, Trefriw and Betws-y-Coed are three fantastic locations to base yourself in.
They are in close proximity to each other and any of them offer a great central base for your holiday.
Eryri | Snowdonia National Park is on the doorstep, whilst beaches on the North Wales coast, and attractions such as Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) itself, Go Below and Zip World are just a short distance away!
Llanrwst and Betws-y-Coed both have train stations so the area is a great place to stay if you are visiting Eryri | Snowdonia without a car - and Trefriw is a short 20-25 minute walk from the station at Llanrwst!
Once here bus services can take you to other popular destinations such as Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and Conwy / Llandudno on the coast if you are exploring by public transport.
Llanrwst
This handsome, historic market town has a famous arched stone bridge over the River Conwy, next to which is the historic and photogenic Tu Hwnt Ir Bont Tearooms.
There are independent shops and cafes in the town and it is a great place to base yourself if you want to explore both the Conwy Valley and Eryri | Snowdonia National Park.
The famous Tu Hwnt Ir Bont Tearooms next to the river in Llanrwst
Nearby Gwydir Castle is an atmospheric Tudor manor house, whilst Gwydir Forest has the Gwydir Mawr & Bach mountain bike trails, walking routes, lakes and waterfalls to explore.
Just south of Llanrwst is the Zip World Betws-y-Coed base where action-packed adventure activities - including the Fforest Coaster - are perfect for families and will get the adrenaline racing!
Trefriw
We are of course biased (!), but our own village - Trefriw (pronounced Trev-roo) - is a fantastic place to stay! Why?
Well firstly it is perfectly located right in the middle of North Wales so nowhere else is too far to visit - for instance, Anglesey is just a 40-45 minute drive away so an easy day trip!
Yet Trefriw is a pretty, peaceful and traditional Welsh village with two pubs and two restaurants, a village butchers, cafe and post office, all set away from the hustle and bustle. Shhh… don’t tell anyone!!!
Trefriw is surrounded by beautiful countryside - you can walk from the door straight into the national park
Famous for a working woollen mill and spa waters, even in the summer it doesn’t get too busy so you can escape the crowds and have a quiet, relaxing holiday should you wish to.
Surrounding it are scenic forests, rivers, waterfalls, and lakes for fishing and wild swimming, and great walks or bike rides from our door into Eryri | Snowdonia National Park are guaranteed!
Ask where to find the best ‘secret’ waterfalls when you stay with us!
A choice of pubs and restaurants in Trefriw - such as The Old Ship Inn right next door to our B&B - also means you don’t have to drive anywhere to get great food and drinks in the evening.
Llanrwst is a pleasant 25 minute walk away whilst Betws-y-Coed is 5 miles away from Trefriw.
Betws-y-Coed
Betws-y-Coed is a picturesque, alpine-style village in a beautiful location surrounded by magical forests and stunning mountains, and is often regarded to be the gateway to Eryri | Snowdonia.
For these reasons it is understandably a very popular destination for many people visiting the region!
Llyn Geirionydd is a spectacular lake - ideal for wild swimming - easily accessible from both Trefriw and Betws-y-Coed
It can get extremely busy in the summer but if you take one of the many hiking trails starting in the village you can soon escape the crowds and surround yourself with nature.
Accommodation, cafes, restaurants and shops - including many outdoor clothing stores! - can be found in Betws-y-Coed whilst other villages and towns are just a short drive away.
Our accommodation suggestions in and around the Conwy Valley:
Crafnant House is our boutique B&B in the quiet village of Trefriw
Glan Y Ddol is a lovely, cosy dog-friendly self-catering cottage in Trefriw
The Princes Arms is a traditional hotel serving excellent food in Trefriw
Cwmlanerch is a campsite and caravan park with a glamping tent - in a riverside location near Betws-y-Coed
The Rocks is a funky, stylish family-friendly hostel just outside Betws-y-Coed in Capel Curig
Stylish bedrooms and delicious breakfasts at our B&B, Crafnant House
2. Conwy
Conwy is a historic, medieval walled town dominated by one of the most famous and impressive castles in Wales - Conwy Castle.
You can also walk along the ancient town walls, enjoy an ice cream on the picturesque quayside and visit the nearby sandy beach at Morfa.
There are plenty of independent and unique shops for some great shopping, and a variety of excellent cafes are places to eat and enjoy great Welsh food and produce!
The magnificent town walls in the medieval town of Conwy, North Wales
Evenings are a lovely time for couples to have a walk around the quieter, atmospheric streets and enjoy the many bars and restaurants.
We love BANK and the Albion Ale House for a great pint of real ale or craft beer. Whilst The Jackdaw is a fantastic new restaurant just perfect for couples wanting a romantic meal or celebrating a special occasion.
If you enjoy playing golf then have a round at Conwy Golf Club - it is considered to be one of the finest links courses in Wales.
You can easily spend a few days exploring in and around the town given there is so much to do, and even if you don’t stay there it is well worth a day trip!
And as Conwy is on both the A55 expressway and North Wales main rail line you can also get to other destinations easily too, so it really is in a good location for your holiday.
Our accommodation suggestions in Conwy:
Cool and funky Number 18 is a unique, boutique bed and breakfast with amazing decor!
Bryn Guest House is a relaxed guest house and holiday cottage next to the town walls in Conwy
3. Llandudno
This seaside resort is Wales’ biggest and to many people the best!
Developed by the Victorians as a purpose built resort, Llandudno is still a charming place to visit and stay in, offering the visitor a myriad of attractions making it perfect for families and children.
Two beaches and the long Victorian pier are popular places to spend your time, and the long, sweeping promenade - dominated by hotels and bed and breakfasts - is perfect for a gentle walk and taking in the sea views.
The stunning Victorian pier in Llandudno, North Wales
The Great Orme is a rocky headland with walking trails, a cable car and Victorian tramway, and once you are at the top there are fantastic views of both the Irish Sea and the mountains of Eryri | Snowdonia.
A wide variety of shops, cafes and restaurants add to the bustling atmosphere, whilst excellent transport links mean you can enjoy day trips to other parts of North Wales.
Whilst Venue Cymru right on the seafront is a theatre and conference centre that attracts famous music and comedy performers and West End shows, aswell as the annual Welsh Open Snooker tournament.
You can also see Welsh whisky being distilled at the fascinating Penderyn Distillery in the heart of Llandudno!
Our accommodation suggestion in Llandudno:
There are LOTS of places to stay in Llandudno so it is difficult to recommend just one or two, but it is always best to book direct!
The official ‘Visit Conwy’ website is the best for searching local accommodation options including B&Bs, guest houses and hotels
4. Anglesey
The quiet and peaceful Isle of Anglesey is a wonderful place to base yourself for part of your North Wales holiday.
Maybe combine a stay on the island with somewhere else like the Conwy Valley - a perfect holiday combination!
It is Wales’ largest island and is a popular destination with stunning sandy beaches, ancient sites to explore and picturesque villages and towns to visit.
We love the following locations on Anglesey and each of them are well worth a visit even if you stay elsewhere.
Beaumaris
Beaumaris is an attractive Georgian town on the east side of the island, offering the superb combination of a waterfront location with fantastic views of the mountains of Eryri | Snowdonia.
Independent shops, cafes and restaurants fill the old streets, and the castle and gaol are atmospheric places to visit.
The photogenic lighthouse at Penmon Point near Beaumaris, and Puffin Island
You can also take a boat trip to nearby Puffin Island from Beaumaris, whilst those wanting to enjoy outdoor adventure activities might want to try a cool ‘rib ride’ or stand up paddle boarding on the Menai Straits!
Rhosneigr
The village of Rhosneigr lies on the west coast of Anglesey.
Two large, broad sandy beaches - Traeth Crigyll and Traeth Llydan - are popular places for walks and enjoying the sea.
Given the fantastic location it is a popular centre for all watersports, whilst new cafes and restaurants mean you can always find some great food and drinks during your visit.
Menai Bridge
The small town of Menai Bridge is the gateway to Anglesey and is chiefly famous for Thomas Telford’s Menai Suspension bridge which crosses the Menai Straits linking Anglesey to the mainland.
The spectacular Menai Suspension Bridge which links Anglesey to the rest of North Wales.
The compact town centre has a variety of independent shops whilst the growing food scene means some superb cafes and restaurants are available so you can try the delicious food that North Wales is increasingly famous for.
Our accommodation suggestions on Anglesey:
Self-catering holiday cottages in and around Beaumaris are perfect for families, available through Menai Holidays
Sandy Mount House is a chic, stylish restaurant with rooms in the heart of the village of Rhosneigr
5. Dolgellau, Machynlleth & Southern Eryri | Snowdonia
The two charming market towns of Dolgellau and Machynlleth lie towards the southern end of Eryri | Snowdonia National Park.
Both are fantastic bases for those wanting to explore the many outdoor activities in this area.
Whilst nearby the coastline between Barmouth and Aberdyfi offers beautiful beaches and walks along the Welsh coast!
Maybe combine a stay at somewhere like The Old Vicarage in Corris with a village like ours - Trefriw - in the north of the park for a perfect two-centre holiday itinerary!
Dolgellau
This handsome town sits beneath Cadair Idris which dominates over it.
The mountain is a popular hiking destination - at 893m (2930ft) high it is a significant climb and a great alternative to climbing Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon).
Try the Pony Path (six miles) or the Minffordd Path (also six miles) if you are up to the challenge!
The Mawddach Estuary lies to the west of Dolgellau and offers visitors RSPB nature reserves for bird-watching and the Mawddach Trail, a 9 mile long cycle path through woods and wetlands.
North of Dolgellau is Coed-y-Brenin Forest Park - a brilliant mountain biking centre where some of the best trails and routes in Wales are found, offering options for all cyclists from beginners to experts.
Enjoy world-class mountain biking at Coed-y-Brenin Forest Park and in the Dyfi valley!
Machynlleth
Further south, Machynlleth is at the mouth of the Dyfi estuary just outside the southern tip of Eryri | Snowdonia National Park.
It is a unique, quirky, eco-friendly town with interesting shops, a museum of modern art, and even a famous annual comedy festival!
Attracting aircraft enthusiasts, the ‘Mach Loop’ is a set of valleys situated between Dolgellau and Machynlleth which offer spectacular views of jets undertaking low level flight training!
The ‘Mach Loop’ offers you stunning opportunities to watch fighter jets up close!
Whilst the Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth is a unique, inspirational place to learn about eco-friendly living.
Mountain biking enthusiasts also head for the fantastic trails at DYFI Bike Park just north of Machynlleth which offer lots of challenges and breathtaking scenery.
Our accommodation suggestions in and around Dolgellau & Machynlleth:
The Old Vicarage in Corris - located between Dolgellau and Machynlleth - is a stylish, luxury guest house just perfect for couples
Plas Isa is a relaxed and cosy guest house offering friendly accommodation in the heart of Dolgellau
Ynyshir is a two Michelin star restaurant with rooms just south-west of Machynlleth
Llanfendigaid Estate offers luxury self-catering holidays on the coast near Tywyn and Aberdyfi, including cottages, a shepherd’s hut and a glamping pod!
Kirsty and Gareth offer a very friendly welcome at The Old Vicarage in Corris - a fantastic place to stay in a stunning part of North Wales!
6. Llanberis
This lakeside village lies on the southern bank of a large lake, Llyn Padarn, and is at the foot of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), the highest mountain in England and Wales.
The Llanberis path - one of the most popular routes up Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) - starts from the village, along with the popular steam railway which also goes to the top!
Llanberis is one of the starting points for a fantastic walk to the summit of Snowdon!
Other activities in the area include a wide range of watersports on Llyn Padarn such as SUP and kayaking, whilst the National Slate Museum, and Dolbadarn Castle are popular attractions.
A circular walk around Llyn Padarn is also highly recommended, whilst the central location of Llanberis means other hikes and trails and never too far away!
Our accommodation suggestion in Llanberis:
Plas Coch Guest House offers very friendly B&B accommodation on the High Street in Llanberis
7. Abersoch and the Llŷn Peninsula
Abersoch on the Llŷn Peninsula was originally a fishing port but is now a popular seaside resort with a large, sheltered sandy beach.
A fashionable food scene has developed in recent years so you can be sure to enjoy good quality, locally sourced food in cool, funky cafes and restaurants.
You can try watersports here such as windsurfing, kayaking and powerboating, and also arrange boat trips to nearby St Tudwal and Bardsey Island.
Surfers flock to the area too for the waves at nearby Porth Neigwl (Hell’s Mouth) and Port Ceiriad, and numerous surfing outfits will hire you wetsuits and boards if you forget yours!
Rugged coastline and beautiful coves on the Llŷn Peninsula
The coastline of the Llŷn Peninsula is one of the main reasons for visiting this beautiful part of Wales - hidden beaches and coves and stunning coastal paths are similar to those in Cornwall.
Other popular locations on the Llŷn Peninsula include the small fishing village of Aberdaron and the larger market town of Pwllheli, whilst the popular tourist village of Portmeirion is a perfect stop on the way to this area.
Our accommodation suggestion in Abersoch:
Many people choose self-catering - Abersoch Holiday Homes offers cottages and holiday rental accommodation
8. Llangollen
The town of Llangollen nestles on the River Dee and is a great gateway to North Wales.
It is a popular centre for both walking and white water rafting, and regular arts festivals - including the International Musical Eisteddfod - add to the lively atmosphere.
A charming riverside walk heads west from the 14th century bridge; you can have a ride on the Llangollen steam railway to Corwen and back; and numerous shops, cafes and restaurants fill the streets.
Just outside Llangollen is the famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct - a world heritage site - and the surrounding hills and Dee Valley offer fantastic hiking opportunities.
The spectacular Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is well worth a visit!
If you’re coming to North Wales for a pilgrimage to Wrexham football club then Llangollen is the perfect place to stay - it is only 20 minutes drive to the stadium.
Even if you don’t stay in Llangollen overnight it is a great place to stop for a break on your way to or from North Wales!
Our accommodation suggestion in Llangollen:
Riversdale House is a beautiful Victorian townhouse and B&B in the heart of Llangollen and overlooking the River Dee
Our suggested one week itinerary in Eryri | Snowdonia and North Wales :
A one week tour of Eryri | Snowdonia and North Wales is a great option to allow you to see the best of the region and the main sights and attractions.
Days 1-2 - start your holiday with a stop in Llangollen and walk in the Dee Valley, or head straight to Anglesey for a night or two and explore the beautiful coastline and beaches
Days 3-5 - stay with us at Crafnant House in Trefriw and explore the northern half of Eryri | Snowdonia - visit Betws-y-Coed, maybe climb Snowdon, and discover the towns of Caenarfon, Conwy and Llandudno on the North Wales coast
Days 6-7 - continue south - maybe stop at Portmeirion on the way - and stay at The Old Vicarage in Corris or Plas Isa in Dolgellau and explore Southern Eryri | Snowdonia - visit Dolgellau, Machynlleth and the beaches on the coast at Barmouth, and maybe climb Cader Idris
Of course a couple of nights in each place may not be enough - we have had guests stay with us for a week or more and they have done something different every day!!!
Many of our guests though combine their stay in Eryri | Snowdonia before continuing their tour with further adventures in South and West Wales.
Maybe visit either the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park or Bannau Brycheiniog | Brecon Beacons National Park after enjoying our beautiful region!
When is the best time to visit Eryri | Snowdonia and North Wales?
April, May and June are great months for a holiday in Eryri | Snowdonia and North Wales.
There is usually less rain (although we cannot guarantee dry days!) and places are a little bit quieter than the busier summer months.
September and October are also a great time to visit - temperatures are a little cooler and again the popular places are a little quieter, and you will also get some fantastic autumn colours!
July and August are popular months to visit although - we hate to say it - the weather is sometimes not as good!
There is also high demand for accommodation during the summer months and tourist attractions and adventure activities can be very busy.
Equally though everywhere is open fully, and if you wish you can still escape to quieter and less busy spots where you won’t see a soul!
The winter months see colder temperatures and snow on the summits of mountains.
Many places to stay and attractions are closed in the winter, although the area is still scenic and beautiful - and very quiet - during this period.
Looking for a place to stay in North Wales?
Crafnant House is our B&B in the village of Trefriw, Eryri | Snowdonia
Our Victorian home has five guest bedrooms decorated in a boutique, modern style and a delicious breakfast is served each morning.
We look forward to welcoming you to Wales soon!
Eryri | Snowdonia National Park in North Wales, known for its rugged beauty and stunning landscapes, is a haven for wild swimmers seeking to connect with nature in a unique way.
With its numerous lakes, rivers, and waterfalls, this beautiful part of Wales offers a plethora of wild swimming locations that cater to swimmers of all levels.
Whether you're a seasoned wild swimmer or a beginner looking to dip your toes into this invigorating activity, Eryri | Snowdonia has something to offer for everyone!