For the wealth of natural beauty and historic sites to visit, no other location in the British Isles manages to pack more into a small area than North Wales. Renowned for its beautiful countryside, this part of Wales is close to many major UK population centres yet feels a whole world away. In other words, it is ideal for a family getaway.
With its own traditions, vibrant living language, and rich culture, the landscape is not the only thing worth experiencing here. The country’s long history is ever present as well, making North Wales as perfect a destination for a family trip as anywhere.
Snowdonia National Park
Perhaps the area’s main attraction is the sprawling majesty of Snowdonia National Park. From cycling centres in Betws y Coed to accommodation in Porthmadog, this area crams plenty in beyond the mountainous wilds. However, it is for the mountains and valleys that most people travel to see, and Snowdonia is not short of those. Home to the British Isles’ highest peaks outside of Scotland, this is a treasure trove of walks and hikes. Don’t worry about your age or condition, as there are trails to suit anyone.
Swallow Falls
The kids are sure to love the beauty of the famous Swallow Falls which adorn so many postcards and paintings from the area. After this, take them on a trip to the picturesque village of Beddgelert and regale them with tales of the heroic hound Gelert who is buried there.
Llŷn Peninsula
After that why not head to the Llŷn Peninsula? With endless miles of rugged coastline, this part of Wales has almost too many beaches and coves to count. Your children will love a walk along the whistling sands of Porth Oer, and after you can take them on a tour around Caernarfon Castle. The town of Caernarfon also has plenty of amenities and makes for a fun day out, as do the nearby villages of Caethro and Bontnewydd.
Porthmadog
Next stop on your family trip should be to the town of Porthmadog. Often referred to as the gateway to Snowdonia, the town is a worthy destination in its own right. Dominated by the breathtaking Moel y Gest that towers above the town, every way into Porthmadog offers a view of its beautiful setting.
A bustling town, Porthmadog also has a long nautical heritage still on display at its deep harbour and is home to the Ffestiniog Railway that takes you to all the major attractions that Snowdonia has to offer. With no shortage of shops, pubs and hotels, Porthmadog offers the perfect stop on a family tour of Wales.
Portmeirion
From Porthmadog, take the Ffestiniog Railway to Portmeirion. This unique town was designed from 1925 to 1975 by architect Clough Williams-Ellis to showcase the area’s beauty and show that a new village could complement the surrounding area. Designed in the style of an Italian town, Portmeirion is like nowhere else and has to be seen to be experienced.
With a sprawling woodland, seaside location, and multiple hotels and other tourist facilities, this is a perfect place for a family stay, and the Italian style piazza and buildings are sure to make for many memorable holiday snaps.
There are few better places for a family trip than North Wales. With so much to see and do there is no chance of your little ones getting bored, and with so much history, culture, and natural beauty on display you might end up moving there! Start planning your itinerary today, and make sure to give yourself plenty of time to breathe in the land’s beauty and experience this real slice of Wales.
