Attractions galore!
The scenery in this corner of Wales is absolutely stunning. First timers to our cottage rave about the spectacular mix of coast and mountain scenery.
Whether you prefer an action packed holiday or a relaxing get away break there is certainly plenty to choose from. Walking, cycling, sailing and golf can all be enjoyed both locally and further afield.
A 5 minute drive away is the unspoilt Fairbourne beach offering miles of sandy beach and lovely views across to Barmouth. You can catch the ferry across to Barmouth during the warmer months. The local town has a well stocked store, newsagents, launderette and Indian restaurant. There is also a steam train service to the far end of the beach.
Aberdovey, a beautiful harbour town, is just fourteen miles away along the coast past Tywyn towards Pennal and Machynlleth. Here you will find one of the finest golden sandy beaches in Wales as well as a wide selection of eateries and stylish shops. It's a perfect place to book a boat trip too, ideal for a sunny afternoon.
Golfing, boating and all water sport enthusiasts will be particularly impressd with Aberdovey's facilities.
Barmouth, another lovely seaside destination, is close by, with great beaches and all the seaside fun you could possibly wish for. The popular seaside town of Tywyn, which is approximately ten miles away, boasts its own leisure centre and swimming pool complex plus all the usual facilities including a cinema.
Walkers are in for a treat with Cader Idris just a stone's throw away. There are three peaks of Cader Idris - Pen y Gadair, Cyfrwy (the Saddle) and Tyrau Mawr which together form a giant's chair. At the foot of the Cader peak is a vast chasm filled with water that is the reputedly bottomless lake Llyn Cau.
There are, of course, many more gentle walks in the area to be enjoyed. This includes the stunning Mawddach Estuary (see the photo gallery). The Rough Guide to Wales claims it is the country's finest!
North Wales is famous for its railways. There are miniature railways and steam trains, mountain railways and valley lines, private and voluntary operators. It's a great way to see some of the beautiful north Wales countryside. The Great Little Trains of Wales website, www.whr.co.uk/gltw, provides links to many of the nearby railways.
The Talyllyn Railway, which departs from nearby Tywyn, makes a lovely afternoon destination. During the summer months you can even book Sunday lunch or a Welsh afternoon tea.
On a rainy day Dollgellau and Machynlleth are well worth exploring. Harlech, with its impressive castle, and Porthmadog too, have much to offer on rainy and sunny days alike. There is also a wide range of museums, craft and activity centres to be enjoyed.
For a wonderful day trip majestic Snowdon is 50 miles away. Snowdon is the highest mountain in England and Wales and is 1085m or 3560 ft high. Pack your walking boots, or alternatively take the train from Llanberis station. The journey will take you through woodland, across an impressive viaduct before starting the long haul up to the ridge and onto the mountain itself. On fine days the views from the train and summit are breathtaking. The view from the top takes in the Isle of Man and the Wicklow mountains in Ireland.
These are, of course, just some of the attractions that make this corner of north Wales so popular with holiday makers.