Plas Hendre, Garndolbenmaen

Snowdonia. Sleeps up to 5

Beaches There is only a short drive to some lovely beaches 5 miles to Porthmadog with the famous Black Rock Sands. This is a long stretch of sands where cars are allowed and the sea bathing is very safe. Borth y Gest inland from Black Rock along the estuary has several sandy coves and inlets ideal for children to potter about in the pools and grown ups relax admiring the views across the estuary to Harlech. Criccieth only 6 miles from Cwm Pennant has 2 splendid Blue Flag beaches divided by the tiny castle on the hillside. Join the Coastal Path at Borth y Gest and enjoy spectacular views all the way to Criccieth. Welsh Highland and Ffestiniog Railways Both have their terminus here in Porthmadog take the Welsh Highland through Snowdonia up to Caernarfon disembark to admire the massive fortress on the edge of the Menai Straits. This is not just a ruin but with rooms containing military memorabilia and more. The Ffestiniog goes in the opposite direction up the lovely wooded Maentwrog Valley to Ffestiniog. Visit the slate caverns here and for the adventurous visit Zip World and experience the nearest thing to flying as you zip down over the slate caverns. Try Bounce Below in the under ground chambers where you can bounce climb or slide on huge bouncing nets. There is a smaller cavern for children to enjoy. Portmeirion Nothing quite like this village anywhere in Britain it feels like Italy has come to Wales with its colourful houses, shops and restaurants. Wander around the woodlands and walk along the water's edge to find private little coves. Often used by film companies the cult film The Prisoner was made here and there are re enactments each Summer. Festival 6 set here in September is very popular with famous groups, singers and literary talks. Places to eat There are 2 good restaurants in Portmeirion. The lovely Art Deco dining room in the Portrmeirion Hotel is an experience enjoy drinks out on the terrace above the estuary or in Castell Deudraeth their Victorian manor house on the edge of the village. Plenty of places to eat in Criccieth, tea rooms. ice cream parlour, fish and chips. Recommended are Dylan's on the front an imposing Art Deco building which serves food throughout the day and The Blossoms is very good too. In Porthmadog try The Old Bakery with two talented new chefs. For artisan bread and wholesome quiches etc buy at the Big Rock cafe and The Moorings in Borth y Gest is excellent. Dinner reservations advisable for all eateries mentioned. Supermarkets in profusion in Porthmadog from Tesco, Lidil and Aldi. Snowdonia Explore the national park by climbing Snowdon or for the less energetic take the train to the summit open through the Summer months hugely popular so booking in advance advisable. Beautiful walks abound in the lovely Beddgelert area. A favourite with children is the walk along the river at Beddgelert to 'Gelert's Grave' and statue with a sad story written below the grave.