Holiday rentals in Betws-y-Coed

Surrounded by enchanting river valleys clad in lush green forests, Betws-y-Coed is known as the Gateway to Snowdonia, the first Welsh National Park and home to Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales. Betws-y-Coed is nestled next to the mighty Gwydir Forest, making it a great setting for outdoor activities and adventures. Follow local trails, enjoying the clean air and marvelling at the natural wonders, including the Swallow Falls, as well as ruined mine workings harking back to the area’s industrial heritage.

As you walk along the main street lined with stone and slate buildings, it is easy to see how this idyllic setting encouraged the formation of Betws-y-Coed artists’ colony in the 19th century, one of the first of its kind in Britain. Much of the village dates back to its popularity as a tourist resort around this time and the nearby Trefriw Spa. There is a sense of real pride in Welsh heritage here, so it is fitting that the man responsible for translating the Bible into Welsh in the 16th century was born at Tŷ Mawr Wybrnant within a stone’s throw of the village.

The warmest month of the year is normally July, with temperatures hovering around 20 degrees Celsius and the trees in the forest full of vibrant green leaves. As the calendar moves into the autumn, the leaves turn golden yellow and red, before falling to the ground and creating a rich carpet underneath your feet and a spectacle that draws annual visitors. The winter months tend to be cold and dark, with snow sometimes making an appearance, but you can still be sure of the warmest of welcomes in the village.

Wales’ mild climate means that rainfall is always a possibility, so be sure to pack waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear if you’re planning to explore on foot. Outdoors enthusiasts head here for local events including the Snowdonia Challenge in June and the Betws-Y-Coed Trail Challenge in November.

Tu Hwnt i’r Bont

The next village along from Betws-y-Coed is called Llanrwst, which is where you will find Tu Hwnt i’r Bont (Beyond the Bridge). This ivy-clad house dates back to the late 15th century, and it has been everything from a residential home to a courthouse. It has been lovingly restored and is now used as a tearoom, where you can enjoy Welsh delicacies, including Welsh cakes, rarebit, and Glamorgan sausages.

Conwy Falls Forest Park

Walk through the turnstile at the café and follow the winding path through the woods until you reach the lookout point of the Conwy Falls. This is the best place to take in the views of the water cascading down the rocks in the gorge of the Fairy Glen.

Gwydir Castle

A loving restoration project is underway to preserve a piece of history here, the Tudor courtyard house at Gwydir Castle. Step back in history, with some parts dating to the 14th century, but most having been rebuilt in the 16th century. As well as offering you a glimpse into life almost 500 years ago, you can also enjoy the delights of its fragrant gardens.