Cottages in Llanberis

Llanberis sits on the banks of two lakes: Llyn Padarn and Llyn Peris, on the outskirts of Snowdonia National Park, and most holiday cottages are within a short walk of the banks of the waters. Rising above the river and towering over the village are craggy mountains where sheep roam and waterfalls tumble. The village of Llanberis is tiny, so holiday cottages in the village will have a few neighbours, but if you’re seeking absolute seclusion seek a holiday cottage just outside Llanberis and into the hills behind the town.

Llanberis is in the heart of slate country, so it’s no surprise that most homes are roofed with the traditional grey slate tiles of the area. With slate topping whitewashed walls or the beautiful grey stone of the area, the local buildings are each unique while retaining a comfortable sense of similarity. Many Llanberis holiday cottages have large gardens, or lead directly out onto miles of countryside; a true natural idyll.

The lakes on the edge of Llanberis have absolutely stunning waterside hikes for all experience levels, from the casual walker to the serious long distance hiker. On a clear day, the water acts like a mirror reflecting the surrounding hills and the blue sky, creating an incredible image where the sky meets the land. Head inland away from the water for endless miles of some of Wales’ most amazing countryside. With no one else for miles you can walk in peace and soak up the tranquillity of this extraordinarily magical place.

Llanberis links into cycle tracks which follow the river, or head towards Snowdonia, flat or mountainous, speed or steady, the choice is yours. Follow quiet country roads or take the off-road route and see this area of Wales the way only a cyclist can. If forest tracks are your haven, head to Beddgelert Forest and Gwydyr Forest, both of which have both easy and challenging cycle paths for road and mountain bikes.

Llanberis has some delightful food offerings, from restaurants to cafes and pubs. For fine British food try The Peak Restaurant, whose head chef was formerly the Head Chef at London’s Groucho Club. The Lake View Hotel has a well-priced, delicious menu, and the views across the river and lake are simply magical. Penceunant Isaf tea rooms are your destination of choice for proper barista coffee, fresh cakes and a proper pot of tea. Seeking more homely fayre? Try Pete’s Eats, a walker’s haven, offering the best chip butty in Wales!

Llanberis is the location of the world’s second largest slate mine, and its slate has made sound roofs and myriad other important building materials used all over Wales and beyond. Visit the museum to learn more about this essential part of Welsh history and its economy.

Climbing adventures await you at the Ropes and Ladders course, with rope bridges, swings and tests of balance. A smaller version (with less of a drop!) is available for younger children so that no one is left out.

This old railway takes you on a fun and informative five mile trip around the lake, giving you unique and staggeringly beautiful views of Snowden and its surrounding areas. What a fun way to spend a day with the family!

Peacefully cruise across the lake for panoramic views of this most scenic part of Wales. See Llanberis from the water, and admire the pretty buildings of the village from a unique perspective.

Only eight miles away is the pretty beach of Dinas Dinlle. The sandy beach is paired with a lovely beach café and its Blue Flag award gives you the confidence to enjoy its blue waters. This is a Site of Special Scientific Interest thanks to the rare birds that you are likely to spot.

Built in the 13th century, the ruins of Criccieth Castle give a fascinating insight into the life of the locals eons ago. With a long and sometimes gruesome history, Criccieth Castle has many tales to tell, with excellent exhibits that bring the castle to life.

Wales is not well known for being surf central, but the artificial surf lagoon, Surf Snowdonia, is changing all that! Providing perfect waves all day long it also boasts a ‘wipeout wall’, giving you the safe experience of a wipeout wave! With a soft play centre and onsite cafes there’s something for everyone to enjoy.