If you’re looking for total freedom on your next holiday, camper van hire is a fantastic choice. You won’t be tied down to strict hotel hours, and it means you can explore your holiday location further and get closer to the natural wonders of the area.
North Wales is the perfect place for campervan rental, since it offers such a diverse and wild landscape to explore to your hearts content. The renowned Snowdonia National Park can be found within the region, and is an increasingly popular tourist destination for a variety of good reasons.
There’s always something to be doing in the Snowdonia National Park, whether it’s exploring all the natural landmarks or taking part in the unique activities which can be found throughout the national park, there’s something to keep everyone entertained.
Natural Attractions
You don’t always have to spend money to experience great days out in Snowdonia. There are plenty of natural attractions to visit and enjoy a picnic at during your holiday.
Take a look around the local villages, or perhaps have a stroll along the many lakes and rivers which can be found within North Wales.
With a camper van, you’ve got the freedom to enjoy an afternoon or some lunch in some of the most scenic spots in Snowdonia.
Swallow Falls
Swallow Falls or Rhaeadr Ewynnol as it’s known in the Welsh language is a waterfall close to the popular village of Betws-y-Coed. The impressive waterfall can be found on the River Llugwy, and reached from the village through a scenic river walk. You can also access the waterfall through the nearby woodlands.
Bedd Gelert
Bedd Gelert is a small village which contains just over 450 residents. There is a raised mound within the village which is said to be Gelert’s Grave, a legendary hound from Welsh folklore who was struck down by his master by accident. Whether or not this story actually took place is widely disputed, but many still go and visit the monument today.
There’s also a large forest nearby (about a mile north of the village) which has miles of walking paths and biking trails, which offer great views of Snowdon and the surrounding lakes. Each cycle route is well way-marked, and there’s a large circular walking route to follow.
Llyn Padarn
Llyn Padarn is a 2 mile-long lake, making it one of the largest natural lakes within Wales. On its southern banks, the village of Llanberis can be found. From many points of the lake, superb views of the surrounding mountain ranges can be observed. In the warmer months, the lake is busy with canoers, boats and fishermen.
Snowdon
The one natural attraction we’re all familiar with is Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales. What’s great about Snowdon is that if you’re not up for climbing to the peak, you can catch a scenic train journey right to the top. On a clear day, you’ll experience superb panoramic views of the Snowdon mountain range and the national park.
Historical Attractions
Photo Credit: Richard Leonard @ Flickr
Snowdonia is packed full of history, and there’s plenty of evidence of it in the are without you having to look too far.
From museums to well-preserved medieval castles dating back to the 13th century, North Wales has plenty to offer those with an interest in history.
For an interesting and informative day out, why not visit some of these historical attractions?
National Slate Museum
The National Slate Museum can be found within Llanberis, and offers an insight into the history of the Dinorwic slate quarry which was used in the 19th century. The quarry finally closed in 1969, but has since been turned into a museum with plenty of walks, talks and live demonstrations for you to take part in.
Harlech Castle
Harlech is a seaside town in Gwynedd which is home to a medieval castle built by Edward I in the 13th century. The castle is now a tourist attraction, with Harlech being considered a World Heritage site.
Whilst you’re in the town, you can enjoy strolls along its stunning beach and enjoy the stunning scenery of the distant Snowdonia mountain ranges.
Dolbadarn Castle
The remains of Dolbadarn Castle can be found at the base of the Llanberis Pass. The Llanberis Pass lies between the Snowdon mountain range and the Glyderau, and is a popular starting point for those wanting to climb the summit of Snowdon.
Dolbadarn Castle was built during the early 13th century, and the remains of the stone keep can still be seen today. The now-protected Grade 1 listed building was once used as a large manor house before falling into ruin by the 18th century.
Caernarfon Castle
Just outside of the official Snowdonia National Park, but definitely close enough to visit is Caernarfon Castle. This impressive 13th century castle is incredibly well preserved, and visitors can explore the towers and gardens. The town, with its medieval walls and traditionally maintained buildings is a fantastic place to visit after you’ve explored the castle.
Adventure Attractions
If you’re looking to experience some adventure on your holiday, there are lots of opportunities for exciting and adventurous days out.
Since the landscape of North Wales is so diverse, there’s a huge variety of adventure days out to suit everyone.
North Wales has been referred to as the ‘adventure capital of Europe’ in the past, so it’s worth putting the title to the test and seeing what the region has to offer.
The National Whitewater Centre
If you don’t mind getting soaked on your holiday, the National Whitewater Centre offers a variety of fun activities to try, including rafting and canyoning sessions which are enjoyable for all ages. The centre can be found within the town of Bala, Gwynedd.
Zip World
Zip World offers truly unique and exhilarating activities within Snowdonia, including zip lining and underground cave trampolining. One of their most popular activities, Zip World Velocity, has you travelling along a zip line over Bethesda’s quarry lake at speeds of over 100mph!
If this activity seems a little too exhilarating, Bounce Below offers a unique chance to go trampolining deep within a cave which has three huge trampolines and a series of slides which are the height of two double-decker buses.
Snowdonia Riding Stables
If you fancy exploring the Welsh wilderness a little bit differently, Snowdonia Riding Stables offers a variety of scenic horse riding treks, ranging from one hour countryside rides to full day mountain rides for experienced riders.
The countryside rides will take you along scenic farm tracks at an easy going pace, with the opportunity for some trotting. Experienced riders can enjoy more freedom on the full day treks, but these should only be booked if you’re confident in your abilities.