One of the great advantages of a holiday on Anglesey is the proximity to Snowdonia. The mountains that form the dramatic backdrop to so many of our sea views are just 30 to 45 minutes away by car. Whether you are a serious hillwalker, a family looking for an adventure, or simply want to enjoy the scenery, a day trip into Snowdonia is an absolute must.
Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa)
The highest mountain in Wales at 1,085 metres, Snowdon – or Yr Wyddfa, to give it its Welsh name – is the obvious headline attraction. There are six main paths to the summit, ranging from the relatively gentle Llanberis Path (about 3 hours up) to the dramatic Crib Goch scramble, which is only for experienced and confident scramblers. The views from the top on a clear day are extraordinary – you can see as far as Ireland, the Lake District and the Wicklow Mountains.
If you prefer not to walk, the Snowdon Mountain Railway runs from Llanberis to the summit between March and October. Book well in advance during school holidays.
Zip World and Adventure Activities
Snowdonia has become a hub for adventure activities. Zip World operates several sites in the area, including Velocity at Penrhyn Quarry – the fastest zip line in the world, reaching speeds of over 100mph. Bounce Below, an underground trampoline experience in a vast cavern, is brilliant for families. There is also Surf Snowdonia, an inland surf lagoon at Dolgarrog, where you can catch a wave regardless of the weather.
Betws-y-Coed and the Swallow Falls
The pretty village of Betws-y-Coed sits at the confluence of three valleys and is the gateway to Snowdonia for many visitors. The Swallow Falls, just outside the village, is one of the most photographed waterfalls in Wales. The village itself is full of outdoor shops, cafes and galleries – a lovely place to spend a morning before heading into the mountains.
The Welsh Highland Railway
For a more leisurely way to enjoy the mountain scenery, the Welsh Highland Railway runs heritage steam trains from Caernarfon through the heart of Snowdonia to Porthmadog. The route passes through the Aberglaslyn Pass, one of the most beautiful stretches of railway in Britain.
Llanberis
The village of Llanberis, at the foot of Snowdon, is worth a visit in its own right. The National Slate Museum tells the story of the quarrying industry that shaped this landscape, and Dolbadarn Castle sits dramatically on its rocky outcrop overlooking Llyn Padarn. The lake itself offers kayaking, swimming and lakeside walks.
All of this is easily accessible from our Trearddur Bay holiday homes – head across the A55, over the Britannia Bridge, and you are in the mountains within 40 minutes.