Dolgellau is a charming and quaint market town overlooked by the magnificent Cader Idris mountain.
We are perfectly located for visiting the vast sandy beaches, rolling hills and forestry in the area, or as a base to go further afield into North Wales to places such as Portmeirion, Zipworld, Harlech Castle, or to climb Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa). The Mach Loop attracts plane enthusiasts from all over the world to witness the spectacular low flying planes in training. If you wish you can hire a bike within walking distance and explore the stunning Mawddach Estuary and bike all the way to Barmouth (stopping at the pub on the way).
The centre of Dolgellau is a few minutes from the house. There is a great assortment of small shops, and places to eat and drink. We recommend you visit TH Roberts – they have great cakes!
Local Attractions
Walking
You are spoilt for choice for beautiful walking spots in the area. Some more popular local walks include:
The precipice walk - 3 miles, start near Dolgellau
Panorama Walk - 4 miles, start near Barmouth
Abergwynant Woods - 4 miles, start Penmaenpool (nr Dolgellau)
Clogau (gold mines) - 4 miles, Bontddu
Climb Cader: Guide to walking up Cader Idris | Visit Wales
There is also Mount Snowdon – there is also the railway up to the top for those who aren’t able to make the walk.
Cycling
The Mawddach Trail footpath walk and cycle route winds for 9.5 miles (15km) along the disused railway track on the southern edge of the spectacular Mawddach estuary.
It starts at the picturesque market town of Dolgellau and finishes by crossing the iconic railway bridge over the mouth of the estuary into Barmouth.
Good for biking and there are plenty of picnic spots of route. Featured in Julia Bradbury's Railway Walks TV show.
Coed-y Brenin a renowned mountain bike trail centre. As well as cycling there are also nice walks for various levels (forest/waterfall), a playground and café.
Dolgellau Cycles hire ‘sensible’ bikes – would need to book in advance (LL40 1DF; info@dolgellaucycles.co.uk; 01341 423332) good for exploring the Mawddach Trail on.
Beaches
Barmouth (less than a 20 minute drive) - big sandy beaches with lots of facilities close by - typical seaside entertainment like donkeys, shops, fish and chips, arcade.
Within a 40 minute drive there are alos many other beaches to explore including:
Borth-y- Gest - here the coastal path leads you round to a number of bays, clean expansive dog friendly sands.
Black Rock Sands - You can actually drive onto this beach. Lovely spot for an evening beach barbie.
Harlech - miles of beautiful sands and sand dunes.
Criccieth - is the next town along the Llyn Peninsula and has a stony beach (great fish and chips and a ruined castle). Also Dylans is on the beachfront and great food!
Eating and drinking
You will be spolit for choice around Dolgellau here are some of our highlights…
Mawddach pizza
TH Roberts
Dylans
Sea view
George 111
Tafarn Y Gader Tapas, Bistro & Bar
Y Sospan