Embracing the Rain: Wet Weather Activities around Dolgellau
Carnathan Castle a rainy visit
Ah, Dolgellau, a gem nestled in the heart of Wales, where the misty mountains and lush landscapes come alive, especially when the raindrops start their dance. While some might see wet weather as a damper on holiday plans, we're here to unveil great wet weather activities. So far this year we’ve been blessed with mainly good weather on our stays but Wales does have a reputation for rain – it often passes quickly though so don’t be put off!
1. Get underground:
In the historic slate mining villages the best place to escape the rain is underground – there are various caving tours or the trampolines and mini golf at Bounce Below. This can easily pass the majority of a rainy day! If the rain clears up at Llanfair Slate Caverns there is also the small animal farm for children, they have indoor play areas as well. This is the more family-friendly slate cave option for younger children - there are others for more active visitors like Llechwedd.
LLanfair slate caves
2. Cozy Café Retreats:
Escape the raindrops by cozying up in one of Dolgellau's charming cafes. Local favorite T H Roberts offers the perfect retreat for a relaxed afternoon. When it’s raining we often disappear upstairs here, it’s spacious -everyone reads and eats cake.
3. Bala Lake Hotel
Our favourite family activity is to swim at the Bala Lake John Lewis hotel, the restaurant there is also good with lots of space for the children. They have a games room, Escape Room, Spa and other outdoors activities like golf - so we go in the sunshine as well! Other local towns also offer swimming pools like Machynlleth.
Bala Lake Hotel - Escape Room
4. Historical Indoor Explorations:
Whilst a lot of the local castles are better explored in dry weather we visited Caernarfon Castle in the rain. It has more undercover areas and Museum displays. There is also the National Slate Museum.
5. Artistic Rainy Day Pursuits:
Unleash your creative side on a rainy day by exploring artistic offerings. Visit local galleries like Plas Glyn-Y-Weddw/Oriel. There are pottery cafes for younger children in Bala and Machylneth.
A lot of the activities listed here can be combined with visiting the local towns and shopping - Dolgellau, Porthmadog and Machylneth are our favorites.
6. Magical Rainforest Walks:
Dolgellau boasts enchanting forests that come alive with a symphony of raindrops. Take a leisurely stroll through Coed y Brenin Forest, where the canopy of trees provides somewhat of a natural umbrella. The misty air and the fragrance of damp earth add an ethereal touch to your nature walk. You can always shelter in the cafe.
I’ve recently been enjoying reading about the UK’s lost rainforests and the book features local places to Glasfryn.
Dolgellau in the rain is not a hindrance; it's an invitation to discover a different side of this Welsh wonderland. So, whether you're embracing the misty mountains and going out walking or seeking shelter in a cozy café. Take a look at some of our suggestions for activities on a wet day and immerse yourself in exploring the local slate caves - wet weather doesn’t have to dampen your holiday experience in Dolgellau.
