Thursday, November 24, 2011

Christmas in Snowdonia

By Bob Surge


If you would like a great holiday in a beautiful part of Wales then Snowdonia is the place to head this Christmas. Holiday cottages in Wales will suit all parties whether you are looking for a remote break for two or a more exuberant family break you will find welsh cottages to match everyone's needs.

Snowdonia National Park is the centre of the area and there is a handy iPhone app to download which will make sure you don't miss out on any of the area's great attractions. The location is perfect with lovely traditional Welsh cottages forming part of the landscape which also offers spectacular green valleys, rivers, lakes, waterfalls and nine mountain ranges. Not to mention the twenty three miles of coastline and beaches to be explored.

One of the most popular activities in Snowdonia is hill walking. There is a great network of established paths and challenges to meet at all levels. Whether you want a nice easy stroll along an accessible path such as the Traeth Bonar Boardwalk with parking and toilets on hand or to take the ultimate local challenge and conquer Snowden, the highest mountain in England and Wales there will be a walk to fit your needs. As long as you check the weather and have the right equipment you will love hill walking here.

For those who prefer a faster paced activity Snowdonia is the perfect place to enjoy a cycling holiday. With miles of forestry paths to discover and plenty of mountain bike trails to tackle even the most adventurous cyclist will enjoy a break here. For those who find road work a worry there is the Mawddach Trail which has nine miles of traffic free cycling from Morfa Mawddach to Dolgellau. The route is very picturesque and follows a former rail line alongside a river.

Welsh people have a rich and varied culture and during the run up to Christmas you will find many cultural events to entertain you. Many churches will be holding carol concerts and will have services throughout the festive season. A visit to the National Slate Museum would be a great day out and during the festive period there is an exhibition by local art students. There is a chance to enjoy a steam ride with Santa on the Llanberis Lake Railway where adults will enjoy a seasonal drink and mince pie and children will get an early gift.

Holiday cottages in Wales offer the visitor the chance to really make themselves at home. Most welsh cottages are equipped to a very high level. There are some very remote welsh cottages and some situated in the heart of the many attractive towns and villages. The most popular place for outdoor enthusiasts to stay is Bettws y Coed which is at the heart of Snowdonia and is a bustling market town.

Wales is well known for its castles and you can see two examples of these at Conwy and at Caernarfon, both castles have been designated world heritage sites. For a windswept and romantic beach walk head to Llanfairfechan, a delightful seaside town.

Visitors of all nationalities are always welcome here as the local economy depends on tourism however almost half the local population in this part of Wales are Welsh speaking. So if you plan to spend Christmas here then you might find it advantageous to learn the key phrase Nadolig Llawen (Merry Christmas). This will secure your place in the hearts of the locals and keep your place at the bar. Where you will doubtless be treated to a very welsh experience as the locals break into song. This is common in many bars and once heard will never be forgotten.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment