Betws-Y-Coed Holiday Cottages
The gateway to Eryri (Snowdonia), Betws-y-Coed is a wonderful setting surrounded by woodland, mountains and cascading waterfalls. It is ideal for outdoor activity holidays including walking, cycling and water sports with a great selection of shops, restaurants and cafes.
BETWS Y COED
At the southern end of the Conwy Valley, Betws y Coed is the gateway to the mountains, forests, and lakes of Eryri (Snowdonia).
Surrounded by the dense Gwydir Forest, Betws has an almost Alpine feel. The village is home to an assortment of independent traders, outdoor gear shops, and some very decent places to eat out. You’ll also find a number of art galleries and boutiques – there are plenty of places to browse around.
Whatever the season, the landscapes in this part of the world are strikingly beautiful. There are countless lovely walks from the centre of town, with circular routes to suit all ages and fitness levels. There are bigger adventures on the doorstep too, including some of Eryri’s most dramatic peaks.
Things to do in Betws y Coed
This is picture-perfect walking country, so why not start by exploring a couple of routes around town? Swallow Falls is spectacular – it’s the largest, continuous waterfall in Wales. Walk from the centre of Betws, following the Swallow Falls walking trail. The beautiful Fairy Glen Gorge is also worth a visit.
If you’re hankering after slightly bigger mountain trails, you’re in the right place. Betws is a short drive from some of Eryri’s most challenging peaks including Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Moel Siabod, and Tryfan to name but a few. For lesser visited slopes, try exploring the Carneddau mountains to the north.
Fancy exploring the local underground scene? You can zipline, climb, and abseil your way through a series of caverns and mines at Go Below’s epic subterranean adventure. Back above ground, head to nearby Penmachno or Antur Stiniog some great mountain bike trails.
The brilliant harbour town of Conwy is well worth a visit. A handsome 13th century castle dominates proceedings, along with the medieval town walls – they’re so well preserved that they’ve been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There’s a lovely harbour to walk along, some great independent shops, places to eat, and a couple of nice museums.
Other great things to do near Betws include the Llechwedd Deep Mine Tour, Bodnant Garden, the Welsh Highland and Ffestiniog Steam Railway, and Zip World Betws y Coed.
Off the beaten track ideas:
Explore the ruins of Dolwyddelan Castle – you’ll find this 13th century fortress on the road to Blaenau Ffestiniog, close to the village that shares its name. The castle played a critical part in the story of Wales and is a fantastically atmospheric place to let your imagination run wild. 6 miles from Betws y Coed.
Walk around Llyn Crafnant – this beautiful lake on the edge of the Gwydir Forest comes with magnificent views of Mount Siabod, Yr Wyddfa, and Tryfan. There’s a lovely circular walk around the lake which is suitable for little legs (2.5 miles) as well as buggies and prams. 8 miles from Betws y Coed.
At the southern end of the Conwy Valley, Betws y Coed is the gateway to the mountains, forests, and lakes of Eryri (Snowdonia). It is close to Llandudno, Conwy, and Llanberis.
There is no shortage of great places to eat out in Betws y Coed. Some of our favourite restaurants include Y Stablau / The Stables for its family-friendly menu, and Bistro Betws y Coed for its seasonal Welsh menu; we rate Hangin Pizzeria for great pizza – including vegan options – and Olif for amazing tapas; for cafes try The Alpine Coffee Shop or The Conwy Falls Café. Cadwaladers serves up delicious Welsh ice cream.
There are some great local delis and food outlets which are perfect if you’d like to stock up with local produce on your holiday. In Betws itself try the Iechyd Da Deli, in Llanrwst head to Blas ar Fwyd, and a little further up the Conwy Valley at Tal y Bont, Bodnant Welsh Food is a must-visit. In Conwy don’t miss Edwards butchers for the best Welsh bacon, and Dylan’s General Store for all sorts of delicious Welsh goodies including homemade breads and pastries.
