Some of our favourite things to do. All within 10 miles and free of charge (apart from cycle hire).
1. The Torrent Walk. A 1.7 mile circular walk showcasing the best waterfalls in Merionnydd. You can access the Torrent Walk directly by walking down our access road and following the public footpath 50 yards opposite our entrance. Climb the stile, cross the field and head down through the forest (which can be somewhat slippery in places) to the bottom, to commence the circular route. Alternatively you can travel by car, turning right on the main road and after 0.5 mile turn left on the B4416 and after 300 yards you can park in the laybay and head downhill along the public footpath.
2. Castell y Bere. A National Trust preserved ancient Welsh fortress, located in the stunning Dysynni valley. By car, turn right on the main road and after 1.5 miles turn right at The Cross Foxes onto the A487. After approximately 5 miles turn right onto the B4405 for a further 5 miles until you enter the village of Abergynolwyn. Turn right in the centre of the village and follow the signs for the hamlet of Llanfihangel y Pennant where you will find a small free car park. A short walk of approximately 400 yards will be well rewarded.
3. Arthog to Barmouth Estuary Crossing. The iconic landmark that is the Arthog to Barmouth railway bridge crossing, with public footpath. Experience the best possible view of the Mawddach Estuary, and then explore Barmouth and its' quaint harbour. By car, turn left on the main road and after 2.5 miles turn left, and head towards Fairbourne along the A493. Approximately 0.5 mile after leaving the village of Arthog turn right for Morfa Mawddach railway station where there is a free car park. Walk through the station and head for Barmouth 1 mile away.
4. Foel Caerynwch (The Pimple) – Probably one of the first things you will see on your arrival to Maes yr Helmau. Climb 'The Pimple' to discover a vista that should really take a higher degree of effort for the visual reward that greets all that conquer her! By car, simply turn right on the main road and after 0.5 mile turn left on the B4416 and after 300 yards you can park in the layby and head uphill along the single track tarmac road. After 400 yards follow the public footpath left past some derelict buildings and beyond!
5. Cregennan Lakes – This is a true hidden gem! Enjoy a tranquil car journey along the lower slopes of the Cader Idris mountain range to arrive at Cregennan Lakes, where you will discover one of the most beautiful and peaceful destinations in Wales. The more adventurous can also take on the 1 mile brisk walk (and odd scramble) to the summit of the imposing Bryn Brith which overlooks the lakes. The view from the summit is unforgettable! From Dolgellau town centre take the Tywyn road and after 400 yards bear left uphill along Cader Road for approx 7 miles, then follow the sign for Cregennan Lakes, where you will find the free Snowdonia National Park car park.
6. The Mawddach Trail – Whether you decide to walk or cycle along this disused railway track that runs from Dolgellau to Morfa Mawddach (Arthog) and beyond to Barmouth, you will not be disappointed. A perfect, safe cycling route for all ages and abilities along the picturesque and tranquil Mawddach Estuary (as featured on TV in the Julia Bradbury – Great Railway Walks). The adventurous can hire bicycles from Dolgellau Cycles (01341 423332) at reasonable rates for half or full day rental. If walking we would suggest driving to Penmaenpool and parking in the free RSPB car park, next to the George III and Toll Bridge landmarks, and set off towards Fairbourne.
And for those 'occasional' really wet days:
1. Harlech swimming pool and climbing wall.
2. Corris Craft Centre and King Arthurs Labyrinth.
3. Tywyn cinema.
4. Tal y Llyn steam railway.
5. Llyn Celyn (Bala) white water rafting (why not if you're going to get wet anyway!).
6. Electric Mountain, Llanberis.
7. Bala, Tywyn, Porthmadog and Machynlleth swimming pools.
See Some Examples