What to do
North Wales offers so much with some great places to visit, attractions and things to do. We've put together our favourites, so here are just a few ideas.
If you choose to stay with us at Hafannedd, we've also got a helpful library in the communal area here with leaflets and maps and extra information for you to peruse. Get in touch if you want to find out more.
Are you a steam railway enthusiast?
We're situated within easy reach of many light railways. Bala Lake Railway is the closest, and will take you through Snowdonia National Park. The Snowdon Mountain Railway will take you to the very peak.
Visit the Llanberis Lake Railway or venture to the Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway or the world famous Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways.
Venture up one of the Snowdon trails
You can't come to North Wales without going to the summit of Wales' highest mountain, Snowdon or Yr Wyddfa as it's known locally and meaning burial mound in Welsh.
Sitting within the Snowdonia National Park and the highest of the 15 mountains which all sit at over 3000 feet, Snowdon will take you around 6-8 hours to hike or alternatively, you can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway.
Keen to cycle? Try these routes
There are many cycle routes to choose from in nearby Snowdonia National Park.
Further afield there are numerous family-friendly trails, with no traffic, so why not try the Mawddach Trail or the Lon Las Menai to Lon Eifion route taking in splendid views of Snowdon and Caernarfon Bay. At Hafannedd we provide secure storage for your bikes so there's no excuse not to enjoy some amazing days out!
Perfect base for petrol heads
The north east of Wales offers some of the best driving routes in the UK.
Featured on Top Gear, the Black Mountain Pass takes you through stunning landscapes with a castle or 2 for good measure. The Abergwesyn Pass will test your skills as you encounter the Devil's staircase.
History buffs are well catered for
If you enjoy exploring castles, forts and ruins, Hafannedd is an excellent base from which to start.
There are plenty of castles to visit, including Conwy Castle, Chirk Castle, Harlech Castle and of course Gwrych Castle from where 'I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! 2021' was televised.
The fortress-palace of Caernarfon Castle is just an hour's drive and is well worth a visit.
Ruthin, the county town of Denbighshire
The medieval town of Ruthin is steeped in history, myth and legend. With the town dating back over 800 years the architecture is quite stunning. Take time to enjoy Ruthin Castle and visit the local museum which is housed in the beautiful Grade 1 listed house Nant Clywyd Y Dre.
Visit the Ruthin Craft Centre or take the Art Trail tour to appreciate all the town has to offer.
Portmeirion village and ornamental gardens
The Welsh west coast is a stunning backdrop for the village of Portmeirion. The village and ornamental gardens attract over 200,000 visitors a year and it's no wonder.
With beautiful (and quirky) architecture and a glorious location take a leisurely stroll around the attractions. Perhaps combine the visit with a trip on a steam train to Blaenau Ffestiniog.
Llandudno Pier
A little over an hour's drive from your base is Llandudno and its pier. Stretching 700 metres across the sea, Llandudno Pier is the longest pier in Wales and is a great day out for all the family.
With plenty of food stalls to cater for every taste, two arcades, shops to browse in, plus live entertainment, the pier offers a range of activities.
Walk in the welsh countryside
There are so many walks and trails to enjoy in the area. Visit Great Orme on the north west coast or climb Moel Famau to enjoy stunning views. Talacre beach offers a lovely coastal walk.
Whether you're looking for a little history on your walk, a country park, forest walking or finding somewhere for your hounds to paddle, we have it all here.
Enjoy a tour of Penderyn Whisky Distillery
Penderyn Whisky has just opened its second distillery not far from Hafannedd - at Llandudno. A Faraday still is producing the first peated barley single malt whisky in Wales and we highly recommend you take a tour.
Please refer to the website to book which says that due to COVID, numbers are limited to 8 per tour.
The legend of Beddgelert
The picturesque village of Beddgelert lies in the heart of Snowdonia.
Learn of the legend of Gerlert, 'The Faithful Hound', visit Sygon Copper Mine or visit the local craft shops.
Use the village as a base from which to explore the beautiful surrounding countryside.
There are plenty of eateries in and around the village so plan to stay for the day!