Llanfairfechan is a beautiful coastal town on the edges of the Snowdonia National Park.
With a little bit of first-hand bias as its my home, Llanfairfechan is a fantastic choice for your next getaway to North Wales.
With its rich history, gorgeous beach, and surrounding mountains to explore. There is plenty to see and do for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Continue reading to discover why Llanfairfechan should be your next choice for a holiday…
Where is Llanfairfechan?
Llanfairfechan sits between Conwy and Bangor on the Snowdonia coast.
The town is backed by the stunning Carneddau Mountains, and enjoys superb views out towards Anglesey, Puffin Island, which made our 9 Islands to Visit in North Wales Guide, and the Great Orme.
It has a fantastic, sandy and pebbled beach which is popular with families, as well as those wanting to get out on the water.
Those looking to get amongst nature can be up in the mountains within half an hour, whether you’re walking or riding your bike! Make sure you don’t miss the awe-inspiring sunsets over the Menai Strait.
You can get to Llanfairfechan via the A55 North Wales Express Way. Or if you don’t fancy taking the car, catch the train from Crewe to Holyhead.
Things to Do in Llanfairfechan
1. Walking
If walking is your thing, it is easy to pick up the Welsh Coast Path as it passes behind the town on its way from Abergwyngregyn. It continues past Penmaenmawr and Capelulo towards Conwy Mountain and beyond.
If it’s a longer ramble you’re after, walk along the Roman Road. It stretches its way through the foothills of the Cardneddau, behind Llanfairfechan and onto Abergwyngregyn and beyond to Caernarfon (Segontium).
The Carneddau Mountains are rich in wildlife, including wild ponies who roam in small herds. It’s an absolute treat to sit and just watch them for a while and a good reason in itself to head out into the hills for a walk!
Those after a less challenging walk can potter along the flat Cob (coastal path) and on towards Traeth Lafan.
Explore the nature reserve where you can spot a host of birds and wildlife. This is a great place for dog walking too, provided you keep your four-legged friend on a lead when livestock is grazing.
2. Arts and Crafts
Historically a farming community, today Llanfairfechan is home to a broad mix of properties, many of which are Victorian.
Like many of the coastal towns in this area, the building of the Chester to Holyhead railway was instrumental in its development during the 19th century.
That and the influence of several large landowners opened up opportunities for tourism and trade. Hence the variety of lovely Victorian architecture.
Exploring the town, you will discover a collection of distinctive Arts and Crafts buildings designed by architect Herbert Luck North.
Be sure to bring your clubs for your getaway to Llanfairfechan, as the town has its own superb golf club.
Offering putters a 9-hole course set on the hillside, with panoramic views over the Menai Strait. There really is no better place to test out your swing with a view! And you can play all day for just £10!
The golf club itself plays host to a variety of events, including bingo nights, poker nights, and quiz nights.
4. Llanfairfechan Beach
A trip to the town wouldn’t be complete without a day at Llanfairfechan Beach. Speckled with pebbles, this Green Coastal Flag Seaside award-winning beach has a lovely, wide stretch of sand at low tide.
After beachcombing the shores, take a stroll along Llanfairfechan Promenade, where you can dine at the cafe. Or enjoy entertainment in the Summer. There’s also a little park for the little ones to enjoy.
If you fancy venturing further, the beach is backed by the coast path. From here you can continue up to the Carneddau Mountains, or on towards Shell Island and Traeth Lafan.
5. Food & Drink
Foodies will be right at home in this wonderful town, which has superb selection of cafes and restaurants. Perfect for when you don’t feel like cooking after a day of exploring!
You can choose from the Seagrass Cafe, which enjoys a beautiful beach setting, and opens as bistro in the evenings.
There is also the Riverside Cafe, where you can enjoy tasty, home-cooked dishes and afternoon teas along the river. Or the Beach Pavilion Cafe which offers a varied menu and stunning views of the coastline.
Last but certainly not least is the highly-regarded Split Willow restaurant. Look forward to enjoying a delicious meal in this period setting surrounded by picturesque grounds. Pre-booking is highly advised!
Nearby things to Do in Llanfairfechan
Llanfairfechan is a perfect base for exploring much of North Wales by car.
Heading towards Chester, Conwy is just ten minutes away with its medieval castle and town walls, good pubs and restaurants.
A twenty-minute drive gets you to Llandudno, Surf Snowdonia, Bodnant Garden and Zip World Fforest. A little further on is Betws y Coed.
In the opposite direction, you are just a ten minute drive from the start of the walk up to Aber Falls.
Well-known for being one of Snowdonia National Park’s most dramatic falls at 120ft. The route is approximately 6km to the falls, with picnic areas along the way.
Whilst you’re in the nearby village of Abergwyngregyn, don’t forget to visit the Aber Falls Distillery. One of only four in Wales, you can enjoy tours and experiences, including becoming a gin distiller for the afternoon!
What better souvenir to take home than a bottle of your very own personalised Aber Falls Gin!
To add even more choice to the mix, Anglesey is just a short drive away, where you’ll find the popular destinations of Beaumaris, Newborough, Rhosneigr or Red Wharf Bay within half an hour of leaving home. All in all, you’ll be spoilt for choice!
Llanfairfechan Weather
Check out the seven-day forecast for Llanfairfechan before your holiday. Whether the sun is shining or not, there is still plenty to in North Wales, even in the rain!
Whatever the forecast, you’re sure to have an unforgettable stay in Llanfairfechan!
Places to Stay in Llanfairfechan
Has our guide to visiting Llanfairfechan inspired you to book a trip? Here at Menai Holiday Cottages, we have a fabulous collection of holiday cottages in North Wales.
Discover more places to add to your itinerary in our guide to the must-visit towns in North Wales. Or check out our blog on Events in Snowdonia and North Wales for an unforgettable holiday.
