Beyond the Summit: Uncovering the Best of Snowdonia (Eryri)

Here at Windward Retreats, we believe a great holiday is about more than just a comfortable bed (though we’re pretty proud of ours!). It’s about creating unforgettable memories and exploring the incredible world right outside your pod door.

And what a world it is! Snowdonia (now officially known by its Welsh name, Eryri), is the shining Jewel in the North Wales crown and boasts a landscape of breathtaking mountains, pristine lakes, and rich history.

Whether you're an avid hiker, a scenic-seeker, or someone who simply wants to soak up the stunning scenery, this guide is for you. We’ve put together a list of our absolute favourite things to do around Snowdonia/Eryri, perfect for our guests and anyone else planning a trip to this magical part of the world.

Snowdonia/Eryri

For the Adventurers & Mountain Enthusiasts

• Climbing Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa): The first mountain everyone thinks of when contemplating Snowdonia and an absolute must-do for many. With six main paths to the summit, there’s a route for every ability. The Llanberis Path is the longest but most gradual, while the Miners' Track offers stunning views of the lakes. For a less strenuous experience, the Snowdon Mountain Railway offers a truly unique journey to the top, giving you all the views without the climb.

• Hike the Glyderau: If you're looking for a challenging but immensely rewarding hike away from the main Snowdon crowds, the Glyders are a fantastic choice. The jagged, otherworldly landscape of Glyder Fach and Glyder Fawr feels like something out of a fantasy film.

• Coed y Brenin Forest Park: This is a mountain biker's paradise. With miles of world-class trails ranging from gentle family routes to extreme black runs, it's the perfect place to get on two wheels. You can hire bikes on-site and explore the beautiful forest and its waterfalls.

For History Buffs & Culture Seekers

• The Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales: This area recently gained UNESCO World Heritage status, and for good reason. Explore the impressive history of the slate industry that once "roofed the world." The National Slate Museum in Llanberis is a fantastic, free-to-enter museum that brings this history to life.

• Portmeirion: Step into a slice of Italy on the Welsh coast. This unique, whimsical village was created by architect Clough Williams-Ellis and is a truly magical place to wander. Every corner reveals a new, colourful vista, and the serene coastal walks are simply beautiful.

Portmeirion

For a More Relaxed Day Out

• Visit Beautiful Waterfalls: Snowdonia is famous for its cascading waterfalls. Swallow Falls near Betws-y-Coed is a powerful, must-see sight, while the lesser-known Fairy Glen offers a tranquil, magical atmosphere with its moss-covered rocks and crystal-clear stream.

Swallow Falls

• Ride a Heritage Railway: Take a scenic ride on one of Snowdonia’s many narrow-gauge steam railways. The Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways or the Llanberis Lake Railway offer a wonderfully relaxing way to see the landscape from a different perspective, chugging past lakes, forests, and mountains.

• Wander Charming Villages: Take a day to simply stroll through one of the region’s picturesque villages. Beddgelert is steeped in legend, with a charming river and storybook stone bridge, while Betws-y-Coed is known as the gateway to Snowdonia and has quaint shops, cafes, and museums.

We hope this list inspires you to explore all the wonders that Snowdonia has to offer. And remember, when your day of adventure is done, your cosy pod or cottage; will be waiting to welcome you back for a relaxing evening, perhaps with a dip in your own private hot tub (glamping only)!

Happy exploring!