Imagine a holiday retreat with the wondrous Snowdonia National Park to one side, and the serenity of the seaside to the other. T at’s exactly what the area around Harlech, Barmouth and Dolgellau can of er; relaxation and romance, with a wide range of activity options.


T e stretch of coastline between the River Dwyryd and River Mawddach of ers some of the best beaches in the UK. Whether you are a sun bather, surfer, or simply a stroller, a holiday home here is your chance for a glorious Welsh getaway.


In the shadow of the imposing Harlech Castle, while Harlech might once have served as a forbidding fortress for foreign invaders, today it off ers a sleepy seaside resort on the Irish Sea. The former Tudor stronghold is now a pleasant community in the midst of seven miles of captivating coastline, with large sand dunes stretching into the distance.


Looking inland to Snowdonia, the Chwarel Hen Llanfair Slate Caverns aren’t far away, allowing you to explore man made mines which are 100 years old.


Further south along the coast, Barmouth lies on the estuaryof theRiver Mawddach, and is of a more industrial nature than Harlech, owing to its history as a shipping hub.


The area off ers easy access to the long coastline up to Harlech, as well as the Snowdonia National Park which it lies within. Barmouth Harbour makes for an ideal relaxation spot, while Old Barmouth has charmed many visitors with its little cottages and zig-zagging streets. Barmouth Railway Station provides a link to Shrewsbury, and a choice of major railway lines.


A few miles further inland into Snowdonia, lies Dolgellau, a small market town which is popular with climbers who are scaling the Cadair Idris peak. There is a plethora of walking routes and trails to try – including the New Precipice Walk and Mawddach Trail – heritage sites such as Cymer Abbey – and a chance to sample local produce at the Dolgellau Farmers Market.


Our top 5 things to do in the area: Explore Idris mountain 1


This incredible mix of terrain and landscapes, with summits and glacial lakes, is fabled in the story of Idris the Giant.


© Cyngor Gwynedd Council www.visitmidwales.co.uk 3 Walk 7 miles of


glorious sandy beaches at Harlech


One of the most delightful stretches of the UK’s coastline. Walk along the dunes and take a pub pitstop.


www.visitharlech.wales 5 Invade Harlech Castle


With its fl oating footbridge, this formidable fortifi cation, built by Edward I in the 1200s, makes for an interesting tour. Tel: 01766 780552


© Cyngor Gwynedd Council www.cadw.gov.wales 117 2


Get on your bike at Coed-y-Brenin


This is the UK’s fi rst centre dedicated to mountain bike trails; an exciting day out for beginners, intermediates and experts!


© Cyngor Gwynedd Council www.mbwales.com 4


Ride the Fairbourne Railway


A picturesque heritage steam railway running from the village of Fairbourne on the Mid Wales coast. Tel: 01341 250362


© Cyngor Gwynedd Council www.fairbournerailway.com


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