Castles in Caernarfonshire Even if you are not a history buff, the area’s castles will leave an impression on you. These giants of architecture were built to intimidate any would be attacker, and they project power still today.
Conwy, Caernarfon and Harlech are all World Heritage Sites, with Caernarfon, surrounded by its 13th century town walls, the most famous. The town is situated on the banks of the river Seiont and enjoys commanding views of the Menai Strait.
Conwy Castle, from the same era, dominates the estuary and town, while Harlech stands high against the backdrop of Mount Snowdon.
Other sites worthy of a visit are the ruins of Criccieth, the scene of many battles, and the mountain-locked strongholds such as Dolbadarn, Dolwyddelan and Castell-y-Bere.
Built to guard a mountain pass through Snowdonia, the single square tower of Dolwyddelan Castle is a prominent site for miles around, and also worth a visit is Dolbadarn Castle, a tall round keep in a dramatic location overlooking Lake Padarn in Llanberis. | Snowdonia National Park The Snowdonia National Park boasts some of the most beautiful and spectacular scenery in the country, with a stunning coastline as well as rugged peaks and valleys, all dominated by Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales and England. The Snowdon Mountain Railway runs at regular intervals from Llanberis to the summit. On fine days the views are unsurpassed.
Llanberis itself is an attraction, with its twin lakes at the foot of the mountain, and is the most popular starting point to get to the summit. For the casual visitor, the Sherpa bus provides very relaxing way to get to the heart of the National Park.
If all this fresh air gives you an appetite, fear not. Local produce is delicious, and Welsh lamb and beef feature prominently as does freshly caught fish such as salmon, brown trout, white crab and lobster, accompanied by local vegetables and fruit.
Welsh cheeses, such as Old Shire, Monterey Jack, and Caws Coch Llyn provide a treat for the palate and mature, full flavoured cheddar cheeses come in a traditionally shaped truckle from South Caernarfon Creameries. |
 Activities in CaernarfonshireHere you will find countless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and the wonderful facilities the area has to offer. To begin with, you will find yourself in some of the most beautiful country you can imagine, with wide open spaces and breathtaking scenery. Walking, cycling, climbing, pony trekking, surfing, water skiing, white water canoeing, quad biking, abseiling, windsurfing, fishing are all available within the area.
The links loving golfer can enjoy a most memorable stay in the area. There are some twenty courses (links and parkland), with stunning scenery and providing challenges for all levels of ability.
Caernarfonshire is great cycling and mountain bike country. The Coed-y-Brenin forest is the major attraction for the mountain bike enthusiast, with an increasing number of custom built trails. Explore the Gwydir forests or try the Lôn Las Cymru, the cross Wales cycle route.
Less rugged, but just as satisfying is fishing. The sportsman can develop his skills in all disciplines here. The choices are: river fishing for wild brown trout, grayling, salmon and sea trout; stillwater game fishing for brown trout and sea trout and salmon late in the season, or shore fishing on the Llyn; and if conditions are suitable, fishing the surf for bass at the surfers’ favourite resort of Porth Neigwl.
After Porth Neigwl surfing if you still have energy its off to the Cross Wales Cycling Route. Or to let someone else do all of the work, simply have a look at the Snowdon Mountain Railway schedule. Conwy Castle is grand as are many other castles in Wales. Trek around Mount Snowdon or dip your pole by in fishing in Wales. We hope you find your charming cottage in Wales and find useful the Caernarfonshire (Snowdonia) Tourist Information Guide. |
