Exploring North Wales? Here’s Where To Stay for a Scenic Getaway

With its jaw-dropping mountains, golden beaches and bucolic countryside, North Wales has more than enough natural beauty to go around. In fact, it’s one giant playground, with endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Our travel experts at Plum Guide know this part of the country well, and have spent plenty of time discovering its many scenic corners. If you’re planning a trip here, take a look at our guide to where to stay in North Wales.

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Who says you have to travel to some remote spot in the Pacific Ocean to enjoy an island escape? Anglesey has everything you need, including sandy beaches, blue waters, beautiful nature and exciting attractions.

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to staying on Anglesey. There’s something for everyone here, from lively seaside villages like Benllech and Trearddur Bay, to quieter spots inland like Llangefni, surrounded by peaceful countryside.

There are activities for every age and interest, whether you want to try out a variety of watersports, explore the ruins of Beaumaris Castle or take a boat trip out to Puffin Island. Keen walkers can take on the Anglesey Coastal Path, or cycle the network of trails running through and around the island.

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Situated on the estuary of the River Mawddach, the coastal town of Barmouth has some of the most impressive views in North Wales. Looking out over Cardigan Bay and lush mountains in the background, the town is the ideal destination for those who want to mix nature with all the attractions of a seaside town. When you’re not busy enjoying donkey rides and amusement arcades, relax on the large stretch of sand, perfect for sunbathing, ball games and watersports.

To catch the best views of the town and the coast, take a hike up into the hills or follow the Mawddach Trail on foot or bicycle. Once a disused railway track, this route takes you past the estuary and rich habitats like wetlands and forestry, all the way to Dolgellau.

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If beaches are at the top of your list when choosing where to stay in North Wales, make a beeline for the Llŷn Peninsula. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is home to over 400 kilometres of stunning coastline winding its way around all three sides of ‘Snowdon’s Arm’. From dramatic, windswept beaches in the rugged north to the more peaceful and protected coves of the south, there’s a beach for everyone. Many of them hold Blue Flag status, so those travelling with kids can make the most of these safe and clean shores.

For relaxing holidays, head to villages like Aberdaron, Porthdinllaen, Porthmadog, and Llithfaen. Busier options include Abersoch, with its fine beaches, sheltered harbour and watersports, as well as Pwllheli, home to a sandy beach, attractions and leisure facilities.

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There’s no way we could leave out Snowdonia National Park on this list of where to stay in North Wales. This is a bucket list destination with epic views waiting around every corner. Any keen hiker will want to climb Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales at 1,085 metres. There are various trails you can take depending on your fitness levels, but if climbing isn’t in the question then there’s always the Snowdon Mountain Railway which takes you all the way to the top.

One of the best ways to take in the park’s breathtaking scenery is to ride the Ffestiniog Railway from the seaside town of Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog, which is known for its slate-quarrying heritage. This vintage train winds its way through some of Snowdonia’s very best landscapes, including enchanting forests, deep blue lakes and serene meadows.

For adrenaline-fuelled ways of exploring the outdoors, there are plenty of thrilling adventures waiting for you. Try whitewater rafting on the rapids of River Tryweryn, mountain biking along the Gwydir Mawr Trail and sea cliff climbing along the coast.

There are so many great places to use as a base during your stay in the national park. Enjoy the sea breeze in places like Aberdyfi, or breathe in the fresh countryside air in towns and villages like Dolgellau, Beddgelert, Betws-y-Coed and Bala.

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The buzzing university city of Bangor is a great place to stay if you’re keen to to be near nature, but still fancy cosmopolitan comforts. As the oldest city in Wales, Bangor is full of history and heritage. Visit the cathedral, a fine example of Gothic and Romanesque architecture with its majestic columns and stained glass windows. Your itinerary should also include a day out at Penrhyn Castle, where you can glimpse its ornate rooms filled with fine arts and opulent furnishings.

Located between the Menai Strait and Snowdonia National Park, Bangor benefits from spectacular views on either side. It’s also the ideal launch pad to further explore the national park.

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It may be quite modest in size, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised at just how much there is to see and do in Conwy. Its main draw is its magnificent 13th-century castle, which you can climb to the top of for extensive views of the surrounding countryside.

More attractions await down on Conwy’s High Street, which is packed with interesting independent shops and friendly cafes. Be sure to visit Plas Mawr, a grand 6th-century townhouse once home to Robert Wynn, a wealthy merchant who was an important member of the Welsh gentry. Down on the marina is the Quay House, its claim to fame being the smallest house in Great Britain. Measuring only 3.05 metres by 1.83 metres, you can squeeze inside to see what it would feel like to live there.

To get out and about in nature, the RSPB Conwy Nature Reserve is a tranquil place for leisurely strolls and birdwatching. For more of a workout, lace up your hiking boots and take on Conwy Mountain for some glorious views. There's also Conwy Morfa on the bay, which becomes a sandy beach at low tide.

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Just outside Snowdonia National Park is the town of Caernarfon, perched on the eastern shores of the Menai Strait. It’s famous for its castle, a mighty fortress built in the 13th century by King Edward I. The castle is in fantastic condition, and as you make your way around, keep an eye out for the arrow slits and murder holes used to protect the castle’s residents.

Beyond the castle grounds, Caernarfon offers a vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries, shops and boutiques. Pop into the Galeri Caernarfon, an arts centre with a packed calendar of exhibitions, performances and other events throughout the year. Relax on the charming waterfront and enjoy the view of the boats sailing in and out. Caernarfon is also a great base for outdoor enthusiasts who make the most of the natural scenery. Both Snowdonia National Park and the Llŷn Peninsula are right on the doorstep, making it easy to get into great outdoors whenever you want.

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Just a short drive from Llandudno is Colwyn Bay, another fabulous seaside town with fun for the whole family. Follow the long promenade from Old Colwyn to Penrhyn Bay to take your pick from several picturesque beaches – stop for ice cream and other refreshments at the many kiosks along the way.

On the edge of town is Eirias Park, a 50-acre green space with a bowling green, boating lake, playground and leisure centre. Just a stone’s throw from the town centre is the Pwllycrochan Woods, an expanse of lush woodland with footpaths and nature trails for you to get happily lost in. Kids will enjoy a day out at the Welsh Mountain Zoo, while grown-ups can enjoy a night on the town at Colwyn Bay's selection of pubs, bars and restaurants. For a truly special experience, be sure to catch a show at Theatr Colwyn, Wales’ oldest working theatre and cinema, dating back to 1885.

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Llandudno is the largest seaside resort in Wales, making it an excellent spot if you're wondering where to stay in North Wales. The town has been attracting holidaymakers since the Victorian era, with its elegant pier, funfair rides and delightful beaches providing fun for the whole family. Sunbathe, windsurf and parasail on North Shore Beach, also called Llandudno Beach. Take a walk along the promenade – the eastern end is particularly popular with families as there is a playground, paddling pool and a wide choice of eateries.

One of the things you can’t miss while in Llandudno is the Great Orme Tramway. Take a ride on one of the world’s oldest street trams, journeying from the town centre all the way to the top of Great Orme, which rises 207 metres above the town. The fun doesn’t stop at the summit. You'll find a visitor centre, nature reserve, pitch ‘n’ putt golf and a play area for little ones at the top.

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