Porthmadog
Discover Beddgelert – A Fairy-Tale Village with a Legendary Past
If there’s one village in Snowdonia that feels like it’s been pulled straight from a storybook, it’s Beddgelert. With its stone cottages, arched bridge over a fast-flowing river, and a backdrop of soaring peaks, this charming village is packed with character and beauty.
Tucked away where the rivers Glaslyn and Colwyn meet, Beddgelert is a peaceful base for exploring Snowdonia, but don’t let its sleepy feel fool you, it’s also the starting point for some truly stunning walks, rich local history, and one of Wales’ best-loved legends.
Where Heritage Meets Adventure
Beddgelert is all about balance; it’s relaxed, yet surrounded by adventure. It has easy access to some of Snowdonia’s most spectacular landscapes, while still offering the slow pace of a traditional Welsh village. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a riverside pint one minute and be halfway up a mountain the next.
With quaint shops, independent cafés, and welcoming locals, it’s ideal for couples looking for a romantic escape, families on a walking holiday, or solo explorers wanting a peaceful base with epic trails right on the doorstep.
Walks, Hikes & Adventures Around Porthmadog
Beddgelert is a walker’s dream. Whether you’re into riverside rambles, forest trails, or steep summits, there’s a route for you:
Gelert’s Grave & Riverside Walk
- Distance: 1 mile / 1.5km
- Time: 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Take a gentle stroll along the riverbank to the legendary resting place of Gelert, the faithful hound from Welsh folklore. The story might be a tearjerker, but the views are lovely, and it’s a great little loop to stretch your legs.
Aberglaslyn Pass Walk
- Distance: 3 miles / 5km
- Time: 1.5–2 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
One of the most beautiful river walks in North Wales. Follow the Glaslyn River through woodland and rocky gorges, with occasional scrambling and bridges to keep things interesting. Perfect for families and photographers.
Moel Hebog
- Distance: 5.5 miles / 9km
- Time: 4–5 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
This mountain towers above the village and offers panoramic views over Snowdonia and the sea beyond. It’s a challenging hike with steep climbs and a rocky ridge, but the views from the top are incredible. Start from Beddgelert and return via a circular route for the full experience.
Beddgelert Forest Trails
A network of peaceful woodland paths is ideal for walking, mountain biking, or trail running. Look out for hidden lakes, picnic spots, and panoramic viewpoints, and in autumn, the colours are spectacular.Things to Do in Porthmadog
Explore Borth-y-Gest
Just a short walk from Porthmadog, the quaint village of Borth-y-Gest is surrounded by hidden coves and sandy beaches. Follow the coastal path for breathtaking views of the estuary and find your perfect picnic spot along the way.
Kayaking on the Glaslyn Estuary
Take to the water and paddle your way through the stunning Glaslyn Estuary. With views of the mountains and the bustling harbour, it’s a great way to experience Porthmadog from a different perspective.
Hike to Moel y Gest
For a fantastic panoramic view, hike up Moel y Gest. This relatively short but steep walk rewards you with stunning vistas of Porthmadog, the Glaslyn Estuary, and the surrounding mountains. Perfect for a morning or afternoon adventure.
Visit Black Rock Sands
A vast sandy beach just a short drive from the town, Black Rock Sands is famous for its wide-open spaces, rock pools, and the ability to drive right onto the sand. Ideal for a beach day, watersports, or a coastal walk with the family.
Wildlife Spotting at Portmeirion Woods
Take a leisurely walk through the Portmeirion Woods, where you might spot red squirrels, woodland birds, and other wildlife. The peaceful trails wind through ancient trees and offer a tranquil escape from the bustling harbour.
Explore the Harbour
Take a stroll along the bustling harbour, where boats bob on the tide and the surrounding mountains reflect in the water. Stop at a café or watch the world go by from one of the benches lining the waterfront.
Where to Stay in Porthmadog
We’ve hand-picked a variety of lovely places to stay in and around Beddgelert, whether you’re after rustic charm, riverside luxury, or peaceful woodland seclusion.
Top picks nearby include:
- Beddgelert Campsite – Set in the forest, with glamping options and walking trails right from your tent or pod.
- Craflwyn Hall – A National Trust property just outside the village, offering beautiful rooms and historic surroundings.
- Tanronnen Inn – A cosy pub with rooms in the heart of the village.
There are also plenty of cottages, guesthouses, and holiday lets in the area, ideal for longer stays or family getaways.
View places to stay in Snowdonia
Places to Eat in Porthmadog
Despite its small size, Beddgelert is big on flavour. You’ll find a lovely mix of cafés, pubs, and eateries that make the most of local produce and mountain hospitality.
- Caffi Colwyn – A great stop for tea, homemade cakes, and hearty lunches.
- Hebog Eatery & Deli – Creative, fresh dishes with outdoor seating by the river.
- Tanronnen Inn – Traditional pub classics, generous portions, and a roaring fire in winter.
- Glaslyn Ice Cream Parlour & Pizzeria – Famous for its locally made ice cream, but also serves up cracking pizzas.
Good to Know
- Parking: There’s a pay-and-display car park near the centre. It fills quickly on sunny weekends, so arrive early.
- Shops: You’ll find a village store, gift shops, outdoor gear, and a post office.
- Dog-friendly? Very. Most pubs, walks and even the train welcome dogs.
- Cash: Handy for smaller places, though most now accept cards.
Why We Love Porthmadog
Porthmadog is where coastal charm meets Snowdonia’s rugged beauty. It’s a vibrant harbour town with a laid-back vibe, where colourful boats bob on the water and steam trains chug through the landscape. Whether you’re exploring the historic Ffestiniog Railway, strolling along the harbour, or heading out to nearby beaches, Porthmadog is a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
How to Get to Porthmadog
If you’re driving, Beddgelert is reached via scenic mountain roads, either through the Aberglaslyn Pass from Porthmadog, or over the Llanberis Pass from the north. It’s a joy to drive, but take your time on the narrow sections.
The Welsh Highland Railway links Beddgelert to Caernarfon and Porthmadog. There’s no mainline station, but nearby towns like Porthmadog or Bangor (around 40 minutes away) connect you by bus or taxi.
A Bit of Porthmadog History
Beddgelert’s story is steeped in legend. The tale of Gelert, the faithful hound who was mistakenly killed by Prince Llywelyn, has drawn visitors for generations. While the grave may have been created to encourage tourism in Victorian times, the story remains a key part of the village’s identity.
But Beddgelert’s real history goes even further back. The area was once a hub for copper mining, and evidence of this can still be seen in places like Sygun Copper Mine. The village also has strong literary links, it inspired poets and writers such as William Wordsworth and Gerald of Wales.
Its natural setting, combined with this blend of history, myth, and culture, gives Beddgelert its unmistakable charm.
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