Picture snow-capped mountains, crystal clear lakes and festive cobbled streets. Winter in Snowdonia is a wonderful adventure for all.
When thinking of places to venture in the winter months, North Wales may not be your first thought. Some of the region’s attractions may have reduced opening hours, but the great outdoors never closes its doors to visitors! We’re here to tell you why North Wales is a magical experience in winter.
Keep reading to discover our top 6 reasons to visit Snowdonia in winter…
1. Refreshing Snowdonia Winter Walks
There’s nothing better than wrapping up warm, lacing up those walking boots and exploring Snowdonia in winter. Picture a deserted beach on a fresh winter’s day, with a dramatic backdrop of snow-capped mountains and wintery forests.
Winter Walks in Snowdonia
Whilst it might be too dangerous to climb Mount Snowdon in winter, there are plenty of other walks to enjoy in Snowdonia National Park. Take in dramatic scenery on a circular walk at Cwm Idwal, one of our favourite walks in Snowdonia, or escape the crowds and head along River Gamlan to Rhaeadr Ddu Falls. That bright blue sky and winter chill will be kept at bay by layers, a brisk pace and the surrounding scenery of Snowdonia in winter.
Coastal Walks in North Wales
After a few days of feasting, what better way to work off that Christmas pudding than an idyllic coastal walk. Spend a winter’s morning strolling along an empty beach, side by side with your loved ones. Breathe in the fresh Welsh air and feel the sea breeze glowing your rosy cheeks. Some of our favourite coastal walks in North Wales include the Rhoscolyn Headland Walk, the Porth Meudwy Coastal Walk and the Great Orme Nature Trail.
2. Magical Winter Scenery
Winter in Snowdonia is truly enchanting. Home to some of the most beautiful places in Wales, North Wales offers spectacular scenery throughout the year. Explore miles of crisp rugged coastline, festive forests and impressive mountain ranges during your winter break.
For some truly stunning winter scenery in North Wales, head to the snow-capped mountains of Snowdonia, the crisp beaches on the Llyn Peninsula or watch a stunning winter sunrise from the Anglesey Coastal Path.
3. Adventure in Snowdonia in Winter
Snowdonia is known as the adventure capital of the UK and is full of interesting facts. Did you know that Snowdonia is home to the highest mountain in Wales and the world’s fastest zip line? With a range of small businesses offering adventures all year round, winter in Snowdonia will not disappoint! Why not take part in activities such as horse riding, mountain biking, coasteering or even some kayaking?
If you’re looking for the ultimate adrenaline-filled adventure, then be sure to check out Zip World, home to the world’s fastest zip line, Velocity 2. Zip World, located in the heart of Snowdonia has a range of adventures available for the whole family to enjoy. From the magical Fforest Coaster to the energetic Bounce Below trampoline park, adventure awaits in Snowdonia National Park!
4. Cosy Winter Pubs in Snowdonia
Spend your days exploring the breathtakingly beautiful North Wales scenery before sitting back and relaxing in a cosy pub with a roaring open fire. With plenty of welcoming pubs in North Wales to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice after a winter’s day exploring Snowdonia, Anglesey or the Llyn Peninsula.
Or why not head further afield to the Island of Anglesey?
Snuggle up in front of the fire at the Ship Inn, Red Wharf Bay or enjoy a warming drink at Ty Coch Inn after a bracing walk along the beach in Morfa Nefyn. If you’re enjoying a winter break in North Wales with your loveable pooch, be sure to check out our top dog-friendly pubs on Anglesey.
5. The Magical Night Sky
The magical night sky is one of the many delights of winter in Wales. Whilst a lot of the UK is spoiled by light pollution, North Wales is an excellent place to experience the natural wonder of the night sky. North Wales is home to the Snowdonia International Dark Sky Reserve as well as plenty of star-gazing hot spots across Anglesey and the Llyn Peninsula.
On a clear night sky in Snowdonia National Park, you can see the Milky Way, all major constellations, nebulous and even shooting stars!
Some of our favourite places to see the stars in North Wales include Llyn y Dywarchen, Llyn Geirionydd and Llynnau Cregennen.
6. St Dwynwen’s Day
St Dwynwen is the Welsh patron saint of lovers and St Dwynwen’s Day is celebrated each year on the 25 January. So, if you’re feeling romantic why not take a trip to Llanddwyn Island and visit St Dwynwen’s Church this winter.
One of the most beautiful and romantic spots in Wales, Llanddwyn Island is located just outside the village of Newborough, Anglesey. Enjoy a romantic winter stroll along Newborough Beach, before visiting the picturesque ruins of St Dwynwen’s Church – the ideal recipe for romance!
Already engaged? Here’s our selection of some of the best wedding venues in North Wales. Say “I Do” surrounded by the stunning North Welsh countryside.
Winter Cottages in North Wales
After all your adventures in North Wales in winter, there is no better place to rest your head (and most probably tired feet) than a cosy holiday cottage! With plenty of North Wales holiday cottages to choose from, we’ll help you find the ideal winter getaway. Put up your feet, enjoy a night in front of an open fire and feel extra warm and toasty!
Whether it be on Anglesey, the Llŷn Peninsula or Snowdonia, we’ll have the perfect holiday cottage for you this winter. Want to bring your dog along for winter walks too? Not a problem! We have nearly 200 dog-friendly cottages, ideal for you and your pooch.
Winter in Wales is just as magical as any other time of year – just make sure to bring your woolly hat and walking boots! What are you waiting for? The great outdoors are waiting for your arrival!
Image Credits: Stuart Madden (CC BY 2.0), Hefin Owen (CC BY-SA 2.0)
