10 reasons to visit North Wales
There is no denying that the UK boasts an incredible amount of things to do. Whether you are a culture vulture working your way through the museums and galleries of London, a beachgoer wading through the waves of Cornwall or a golfer teeing off at the home of golf in St Andrews, the UK really has an incredible amount to offer.
What many of us don’t know, both UK residents or those from further afield, is that North Wales is one of its best-kept secrets. Just 3 hours on a train from Euston you can find magnificent castles, fine beaches, tumbling waterfalls, dramatic landscapes and thrill-seeking fun. So, if you are looking for a weekend full of adventure or just a day out, North Wales has everything you need for the whole family.
We take a look at 10 reasons you need to come and visit!
Reason 1 – Conquer Snowdon
Mount Snowdon is the highest mountain in Wales at a whopping 3,560 feet and is one of Wales’ most recognisable landmarks. Snowdon beckons hikers far and wide, with 6 different paths leading to its summit high in the skies. During the gruelling climb, you will take in breath-taking views over Pembrokeshire, Snowdonia, Anglesey, and Ireland
Reason 2 – It’s the zip capital
North Wales is the zip line capital of the world and Zip World brings attractions such as Velocity at Bethesda which is the fastest zip line in the world as well as being the longest in Europe. There are so many different types of zip lining to be done across the region for all ages. If you are of the more adventurous you can zip into a former slate mine, or why not check out the wildlife high in the trees on Zip Safari or even take a swing on Skyride, the Europes highest five seater giant swing
Reason 3 – See the perfect sand of Aberdovey beach
Aberdovey is an unspoilt Victorian coastal village, in an idyllic spot where mountains meet on the north side of the Dovey estuary. Aberdovey beach brings you miles of perfect sand running all the way up to Tywyn and is home to plenty of sailing and water sports.
Reason 4 – Try white water rafting
If you fancy some hair-raising activity why not visit The National Whitewater Centre and spend half a day or a whole weekend white water rafting at Wales’ original white-water rafting venue. There are plenty of twists, turns, ups and downs (and upside downs) making it the perfect wet activity.
Reason 5 – Speed around the race track
Fancy yourself as the next Lewis Hamilton? Why not take a trip to Redline Indoor Karting in Caernarfon. There are not many go karting tracks based in an area of outstanding natural beauty so if you find yourself caught in some bad weather, this can be a great indoor activity to keep you and the family entertained.
Reason 6 - Climb up high
Another great indoor location is the Beacon Climbing Centre where you can have great fun climbing up high on the high ropes and walls. Beacon Climbing Centre features the CrazyClimb, a series of wacky climbing challenges as well as a low-level bouldering area where you can try climbing with no ropes at all.
Reason 7 – Visit the first National Nature Reserve in Wales
Cwm Idwal in Bethesda is the first officially recognised National Nature Reserve in Wales and was a favourite haunt of Charles Darwin himself. The cwm (the basin) forms an amphitheatre behind Llyn Idwal a glacial lake. The reserve is one of the finest places to see how glaciers are affected and shaped. Cwm Idwal is also a haven for botanists with its numerous mosses, lichens and ferns as well as hundreds of types of flowering plants.
Reason 8 – Why stop at Snowdon?
If you can’t face the heights of Snowdon or have already ticked it off your list, why not tackle Cader Idris, Wales’ second most-popular mountain. Sitting up at 2,930 feet high Cader Idris is both a beautiful and challenging mountain stationed between Barmouth and Dolgellau and is a relenting uphill battle.
Reason 9 – Admire a beautiful garden
Set in Conwy Valley you will find Bodnant Garden and its 80 acres of beautiful lush gardens. At Bodnant Garden you will find a collection of stunning plants and trees from around the world. Take in the vegetation of every shape and colour no matter what time of year you are going.
Reason 10 – Because you can’t go to Wales and not see a castle
Lastly you can’t go to Wales and not see one of its many great castles. Built by King Edward I, Caernarfon Castle is one of the most impressive castles in Wales and well worth of its World Heritage status. The medieval fortress in Caernarfon holds plenty of history as well as beautiful views over the water.
For more on what to do in North Wales why not visit the Zip World Adventure Highway?