North Wales is renowned for its stunning scenery and diverse range of activities, making it the perfect destination for a winter getaway.
This time of year means quieter accommodation and camping sites, less crowded towns and attractions – and if you’re into your walking and hiking trails, you’re more likely to have these incredible landscapes all to yourself.
Here are our top picks for autumn and winter experiences you won’t want to miss!
If you are staying with us here at Madryn Castle, be sure to add as many of these exciting activities or places to visit, to your adventure – if you can’t fit them all into one holiday, no problem, there’s always next time you visit!
Zip-Lining in Snowdonia
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity to add to your visit to North Wales, be sure to check out Velocity 2 at Zip-World, in Snowdonia.
There’s nothing quite like hurtling through the air at high speeds with nothing but a thin wire keeping you up!
Not only is it a great way to take in the stunning scenery of this beautiful region, but it’s also an exhilarating experience that you’ll never forget.
Did we mention, this is the fastest zip line in the world since 2013!
Soaring over Penrhyn Quarry you can travel at speeds of up to and over 100 mph!
Bounce Below, Snowdonia
Another Zip-World experience, Bounce Below is an adventure that lets you disappear into a world of the subterranean.
A great activity for families, which promises to be as fun for adults as it is for children!
This underground wonderland has six trampoline nets built into old slate caverns, creating a playground that is twice the size of St. Paul’s Cathedral!
Here you can let off some steam, and admire the awesome beauty of these old slate mines.
Aber Falls Distillery
Aber Falls is located in the stunning Snowdonia National Park, making it the perfect place to enjoy some winter scenery, and a warming tipple.
There are only four whisky distilleries in Wales, and Aber Falls is the first in North Wales to open since the early 1900s.
The impressive distillery tour will take you through the process of how Aber Falls whisky is made (using water from the Aber Falls, of course), or if you prefer, you can join a class to create your own gin!
The restaurant onsite offers a refined menu that much like its whisky, is packed full of bold flavours and exciting fusion twists, you’ll definitely want to include a meal or light bite here as part of your visit!
As if that wasn’t enough, the distillery also hosts a market many times during the year, where you will find local artisan foods, crafts and gifts – keep an eye on their website or social media pages for upcoming dates (the winter markets are particularly festive).
Llyn Padarn
Llyn Padarn is a beautiful glacial lake surrounded by the majestic scenery of Snowdonia.
One of the largest natural lakes in Wales, the hike around the perimeter is 8.4km long.
There are also 800 acres of parkland to explore, allowing you to choose short or long routes in this stunning natural landscape.
Betws-y-Coed
Known as ‘the gateway to Snowdonia’ Betws-y-Coed is a haven for walkers and shoppers alike.
Surrounded by the dense Gwydyr Forest, there are many options for those who like to hit the trails.
Walking around the village itself, you will find an assortment of independent stores that sell locally produced goods, clothing, gifts, and crafts.
It’s also the place for outdoor equipment stores, as well as quaint art galleries displaying work by gifted local Welsh artists.
Whether hiking or shopping, what better way to finish off than with a hearty pub meal?
With an array of cafés and pubs, you are sure to find a place to rest your feet.
We recommend ‘Y Stablau’, The Stables Bar for local cask ales, a classic pub menu, and live Jazz every Thursday evening – the perfect way to relax after a day’s hiking.
Bardsey Island
Bardsey Island is a tiny island at the very tip of the Llŷn Peninsula here in North Wales, just off the coast of Aberdaron – and it is home to a huge variety of wildlife.
Calling all nature lovers!
It is as iconic, as it is unique. And although it is a haven for birdwatchers, being home to over 200 species of birds, it’s peaceful community currently comprises only 11 people – pretty small considering it’s Wales’ fourth largest offshore island.
There are regular boat trips to and from the island, giving you plenty of time to explore, and if you’re really lucky you’ll spot seals & dolphins on the trip over.
But be sure to book in advance, and plan according to the weather (…its Welsh name means “The Island in the Currents”).
Caernarfon Castle
Caernarfon castle is a popular tourist attraction and a World Heritage Site.
It is considered one of the finest examples of medieval architecture in Europe.
The castle is situated on the banks of the river Seiont, and its massive walls and towers dominate the town.
If you are looking for a fairy-tale castle to stir the imagination, Caernarfon won’t disappoint!
North Wales is a beautiful place to experience the autumn and winter months, and the perfect place to enjoy an out-of-season break.
Autumn in particular is quite possibly our favourite time of year to experience this magical part of the UK, and if you’re lucky enough to experience a clear evening’s sky at sunset, you might just understand why.
Get in touch for more information – or to book your stay in our luxury Pritchard Lodge, simply click here.
If you have managed to tick this whole list off and are looking for more inspiration, head over to our sister holiday park Sarnfaen’s blog page to see our best suggestions for day trips in Mid-Wales.
For more of our top tips, suggestions and ideas, you can follow our social media pages using the links below.
