Snowdonia - Eryri is Wales' largest National Park and a gem of the Welsh countryside. Known for its soaring mountains, quaint villages and ancient castles, there are plenty of fantastic places to stay and exciting things to do when you visit Snowdonia.
The National Park covers an area of 823 square miles, so when organising a trip to Snowdonia, it's important to look for accommodation that is well-located and close to your attractions or activities. Also, consider the type of accommodation you want as well as the price and amenities.
What to consider when planning your accommodation
Planning where to stay in Snowdonia requires careful consideration to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Here are the most important things to consider:
Location
Snowdonia National Park covers an area of over 800 square miles and takes around 2 hours to travel from Aberdyfi in the south to Bangor in the north. Choose a location that is close to the attractions you wish to visit and activities you want to do.
If climbing Snowdon is your main activity, then make sure you stay nearby.
Type of accommodation
Snowdonia has a diverse range of accommodation. From luxury hotels to budget campsites and everything in between, so make sure you choose a type of accommodation that aligns with your comfort level and price range.
Budget
Set a budget with a maximum amount you can spend and stick to it. Prices can vary greatly depending on the type of accommodation and season.
Amenities & Services
Consider which amenities are important such as free WIFI, a drying room (for wet hiking gear) or a hot tub.
Also check the services that are offered. Many places serve a full Welsh breakfast and can make a packed lunch. Check restaurant opening times, as many places don't start serving food until 8 am, which can be inconvenient when Snowdonia's limited car parks fill up early.
Views and surroundings
The natural landscape is one of the main reasons for visiting Snowdonia. Most accommodation will make it clear what views (if any) of the picturesque countryside you will have.
Accessibility
If you're not driving, make sure your activities and accommodation are all accessible by public transport.
Duration of stay
You need a day to climb Yr Wyddfa - Snowdon and around a week to really explore the National Park. There is so much to do in Snowdonia many people return year after year.
Season and weather
Snowdonia experiences varying weather throughout the year and even within a single day. Make sure your accommodation has heating in the winter and is well-ventilated in the summer.
Where is the best place to stay in Snowdonia?
Choosing a location largely depends on the attractions you wish to visit and the activities you plan on doing. Here are a few popular options:
Beddgelert: Nestled in the heart of Snowdonia, Beddgelert is a charming village known for its history and stunning surroundings. In our opinion the village is the perfect balance of 'get away from it all' vibe with enough cafes, shops and restaurants to keep you entertained for an afternoon. It is ideal for nature lovers and those looking to explore the region's beauty. The National Trust car park nearby in Nantmor is a great location to explore the Aberglaslyn Pass and surrounding Celtic woodlands. Drive to Snowdon: 7 mins to Rhyd-Ddu Path
Bangor: With good transport links and access to the National Park, Bangor is a good base, but you will have to travel to most attractions. There are some good restaurants, pubs and bars. As the only city in the area it has a good range of accommodation on offer. Bangor makes a good base for those wishing to fly down the world's fastest zip line at Zip World and hike up Yr Wyddfa - Snowdon. Drive to Snowdon: 21 mins to Llanberis Path
Betws-y-Coed: Known as the "Gateway to Snowdonia" due to good transport links and is a popular village with lots of shops, cafes and restaurants. It is surrounded by enchanting woodlands, rivers, and waterfalls and is an excellent choice for those seeking outdoor activities or sightseeing. It's a great base for those wanting to take a trip on the Ffestiniog Highland Railway or do Gorge Scrambling. Drive to Snowdon: 20 mins to Pyg & Miners Track
Blaenau Ffestiniog: Right in the middle of the National Park and Snowdonia's UNESCO World Heritage slate landscape, this town is close to various attractions like the Llechwedd Slate Caverns. Blaenau Ffestiniog offers a unique blend of industrial heritage and outdoor adventures. Drive to Snowdon: 20 mins to Pyg & Miners Track
Caernarfon: If you're interested in exploring historical sites along with the coastal and mountainous beauty of Snowdonia, Caernarfon is a great base. It's home to the commanding Caernarfon Castle and is well located for beaches on the Llyn Peninsula as well as the mountains. Drive to Snowdon: 17 mins to Llanberis Path
Conwy: While not directly within Snowdonia, Conwy is a charming seaside town that provides easy access to both the mountains and the sea. It's home to the stunning Conwy Castle and offers a range of accommodation. Drive to Snowdon: 33 mins to Llanberis Path
Llanberis: Situated at the foot of Snowdon, Llanberis is a popular choice for hikers aiming to conquer Wales' highest peak or those wishing a more leisurely journey up the Snowdon Mountain Railway. The village is a great base for multi-activity holidays as it is well known for its hiking trails, rock climbing, paddle boarding, wild swimming and more. Drive to Snowdon: 0 mins to Llanberis Path
Llandudno: The seaside resort of Llandudno is famous for its North Shore & West Shore beaches as well as the 19th-Century Pier with shops and arcades. The town has been popular since Victorian times, and for good reason. It is located at the base of the stunning Great Orme headland, which includes the world's largest prehistoric copper mine and a cable car. Drive to Snowdon: 41 mins to Llanberis Path
Porthmadog: The coastal town of Porthmadog is nestled at the meeting point of the mountains and the sea. It is ideally located if you are visiting the beaches of the Llyn Peninsula or the mountains of northwest or mid-Snowdonia. Harlech, Criccieth and the tourist village or Portmeirion are all really close, and The Welsh Highland Railway starts in Porthmadog. Drive to Snowdon: 22 mins to Rhyd Ddu Path
Top accommodation picks in and around Snowdonia National Park
Take a look at some of the most highly rated accommodation in the best places to stay in Snowdonia:
Plas Tan y Graig
Best for: Quaint village & lots walking routes for all abilities
Area: Beddgelert
Drive to Snowdon: 7 mins (Rhyd-Ddu Path)
Located right near the charming stone bridge spanning the Afon Colwyn river, Plas Tan y Graig might be what you've been dreaming of. This attractive Guest House is set in the heart of the peaceful village of Beddgelert and has good views of the mountains. It offers a warm welcome, comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast. If you want to be in the beating heart of Snowdonia whilst beating the crowds then this is an excellent choice. It is the perfect base for our Magnificent Moelwyns walk.
The Courthouse
Best for: Peaceful location & nearby attractions
Area: Betws-y-Coed
Drive to Snowdon: 20 mins (PYG & Miners Track)
Nestled on the banks of the beautiful river Conwy, The Courthouse could not be in a more idyllic location. The beautiful garden is the perfect place for guests to relax and enjoy the river as it bubbles past. The peaceful location is just a stone's throw from the shops and cafe's that line the village green and Swallow Falls is just two miles away. The 4-star guesthouse has individually themed and appointed rooms, free parking and a delicious breakfast made from fresh local ingredients.
Black Boy Inn
Best for: History buffs & mountain as well as beach holidays
Area: Caernarfon
Drive to Snowdon: 18 mins (Llanberis Path)
Set in the winding streets of the Royal Borough of Caernarfon, the Black Boy Inn has been welcoming travellers since 1522. The Inn is a stones throw from Caernarfon Castle; 'one of the greatest buildings of the Middle Ages' and is perfectly situated to access both the Llyn Penninsula and Snowdonia. Inside you will find a warm Welsh welcome and of some of the finest locally sourced produce in the restaurant whilst the bar has 20 taps serving cask and keg beers from independent breweries.
Tynedale
Best for: Entertainment, sightseeing & romantic breaks
Area: Llandudno
Drive to Snowdon: 42 mins (Llanberis Path)
The bright, chic and award-winning Tynedale is right on the Llandudno Promenade. It is perfect for those wanting to explore the seaside resort, The Great Orme and the North coast of Wales. This seafront hotel has friendly staff, great food and a café bar serving drinks, cakes and light lunches. With cabaret-style shows every night of the year, Tynedale will keep you entertained.
Plas Weunydd
Best for: Families & Dog friendly accommodation
Area: Blaenau Ffestiniog
Drive to Snowdon: 38 mins (PYG Track)
With well-equipped Safari Tents, luxury Shepherds huts and hotel rooms, Plas Weunydd is a great option for those wanting a memorable adventure in the heart of Snowdonia's UNESCO World Heritage slate landscape. The location could not be better for families looking for a base to access the attractions of the Ffestiniog railway, Llechwedd slate caverns, and bounce below.
Plas Coch
Best for: Snowdon climbers & local attractions
Area: Llanberis
Drive to Snowdon: 0 mins (Llanberis Path)
Located on Llanberis High Street, Plas Coch is a great base for those venturing up Yr Wyddfa - Snowdon or exploring the National Park. This historic, spacious and elegant guest house offers high-quality accommodation, an excellent Welsh breakfast and a beautiful garden. This is perfect for those walking up Snowdon via the Llanberis Path and exploring Snowdonia.
Château Rhianfa
Best for: Romantic getaways & fine dining
Area: Menai Bridge (Bangor)
Drive to Snowdon: 26 mins (Llanberis Path)
The Grade II listed Château Rhianfa on the banks of the Menai Strait has a collection of 27 individually styled luxurious bedrooms. With views of the Menai suspension bridge, it is the perfect location to access Snowdonia and Anglesey for day time activities, while the AA Rosette awarded restaurant will keep your taste buds entertained in the evening.
Golden Fleece Inn
Best for: Portmerion Village & Ffestiniog Highland Railway
Area: Tremadog (Porthmadog)
Drive to Snowdon: 20 mins (Rhyd Ddu Path)
The multi-award-winning Golden Fleece Inn offers a range of well-appointed guest rooms, suites and holiday cottages. It is one of the few hotels in the region offering Electric Vehicle charging. The stylish bar allows guests to relax and unwind in the evening, and the popular restaurant sources its meat from its own butchery ensuring each cut is of the highest quality.
Where to stay in Snowdonia without a car
Snowdonia offers a variety of accommodations for travellers who are using public transport. Some of the best options for places to stay with National Rail train stations include:
Bangor (Direct bus to Snowdon)
Betws y coed (Direct bus to Snowdon)
Porthmadog (Direct bus to Snowdon)
Blaenau Ffestiniog
Harlech
Cricieth
From the transport hubs of Bangor, Betws y Coed and Porthmadog, it is easy to get the bus to the following popular destinations, which are all connected to Snowdon, via the Sherpa Bus:
Llanberis
Caernarfon
Beddgelert
Where to stay for Snowdon without a car
The best place to stay if you are climbing Snowdon and using public transport is the village of Llanberis. It is well connected to the transport hubs of Bangor and Betws-y-Coed, and it is where the the Llanberis Path up Snowdon begins. It is also well connected to Pen y Pass, where the PYG Track and Miners Track begin.
Llanberis is nestled on the edge of Padarn Country Park, Llanberis is the gateway to Mount Snowdon and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts as well as history aficionados. Originally a slate mining town, it is a great place to explore the slate landscape, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as Dolbadarn Castle and Padarn Country Park, which are all within walking distance from the village.
Now that you've got accommodation sorted. Plan your climb with Walk Snowdonia
We organise regular Group Walks up Snowdon or choose your own date and route with our bespoke Private Guiding service. We also offer Map Reading Courses, Gorge Scrambling, as well as Challenge Events such as the National Three Peaks.
Get in touch to organise your perfect adventure.
Frequently asked questions about staying in Snowdonia
To learn more about planning a stay in Snowdonia, check out our FAQs below or contact us today:
Is North Wales the best region to stay in if climbing Snowdon?
North Wales is an area covering over 6000 square kilometres, which includes Mount Snowdon - Yr Wyddfa and Snowdonia National Park - Eryri.
If you are climbing Snowdon, it is best to stay near to the mountain itself. A great location is the village of Llanberis, the start of the Llanberis Path.
Other nearby towns and villages (and driving times) include:
Rhyd Ddu - 0 mins
Beddgelert - 7 mins
Capel Curig - 11 mins
Waunfawr - 12 mins
Caernarfon - 19 mins
Betws-y-Coed - 21 mins
Porthmadog - 23 mins
Bethesda - 23 mins
Bangor - 24 mins
Cricieth - 29 mins
There are other great locations nearby, but check how long it will take you to travel to Snowdon, and if you are using public transport, make sure there are train and bus connections.
Is accommodation in Snowdonia expensive?
Prices can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of accommodation, location, time of year, and overall demand.
Generally, prices are higher during the summer, which is the peak season. Accommodation prices tend to also be higher during school holidays and weekends, with bank holidays being especially popular.
Snowdonia offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, self-catering cottages, lodges, camping, glamping and more.
How far in advance should you book accommodation in Snowdonia?
To avoid disappointment, book as far in advance as possible. This is especially true for peak season when many hotels, B&Bs and other types of accommodation get fully booked weeks and sometimes months in advance.
The earlier you start looking, the greater choice you will have and the more chance you will find the perfect place to stay.
To get the most out of your stay, take a look at some of our blog articles about Snowdonia...
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