Snowdonia 3 Day Itinerary: A Family Adventure
Snowdonia National Park holds a special place in my heart, and this 3-day itinerary is perfect for a family adventure. With my husband and our toddler, Lily, we recently explored some of the best spots in the park.
Here’s how you can enjoy Snowdonia’s beauty and charm with your own family…
Day 1: Exploring Betws-y-Coed
We started our trip in the picturesque village of Betws-y-Coed, often called the gateway to Snowdonia. It’s a fantastic spot for families, with something for everyone.
Morning: Riverside Walk
After a hearty breakfast, we set off on a short circular walk along the river. The trail was perfect for stretching our legs and taking in the lush surroundings. Lily loved spotting ducks and splashing in puddles (toddler-approved fun!). The peaceful sound of the flowing water and the fresh woodland air was the perfect way to start the day.
Lunch: Hangin Pizzeria
By lunchtime, we were ready for a treat. Hangin Pizzeria, right in the heart of the village, did not disappoint. The wood-fired pizzas were delicious – we shared a margherita and a salami-loaded option, both of which were a hit with Lily (and us!). They also have a range of vegan options. The friendly atmosphere made it a great family stop.
Afternoon: Zip World Forest Coaster
The highlight of the day was the Zip World Forest Coaster. The UK’s only alpine coaster of its kind, it offers an unforgettable woodland experience as you weave and speed at up to 25mph through the trees. A minimum height of 1m is required for this adventure, and children aged 3–8 years must be accompanied on the same sledge by one participating adult (or a child aged 9+ who is over 1m tall) for every child.
We met friends here, which worked perfectly as we could take turns looking after Lily while the others enjoyed the ride. I was a little nervous at first, but we went back for a second go – it was that good!
Day 2: A Railway Adventure
Day two was dedicated to exploring Snowdonia by train. The Welsh Highland Railway is a magical experience, especially with little ones who adore trains.
All-Day Excursion: Welsh Highland Railway
We boarded the train in Porthmadog and spent the day chugging through stunning landscapes of Snowdonia. The steam engine’s gentle rhythm and the views of mountains, forests, and rivers made this journey unforgettable. Lily was fascinated by the train and kept pointing out animals along the way.
Stop 1: Beddgelert
Our first stop was the charming village of Beddgelert. We visited Gelert’s Grave and shared the tale of the loyal dog with Lily. Beyond Gelert’s Grave, Beddgelert offers plenty to see and do. The quaint streets are lined with lovely independent shops and cafes, perfect for browsing or grabbing a quick treat.
We also enjoed a scenic walk along the Glaslyn River, which winds through the valley and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. For history enthusiasts, there’s a chance to learn more about the area’s mining past at the nearby Sygun Copper Mine. It’s a delightful village that’s well worth exploring at a leisurely pace.
Stop 2: Caernarfon
The train’s journey ended in Caernarfon, where we explored the majestic Caernarfon Castle. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is steeped in history and was a hit with all of us. Lily loved pretending to be a princess in the castle’s towers, and the views over the Menai Strait were breathtaking.
Day 3: Nature and Gardens
Our final day was a mix of natural beauty and a touch of elegance, providing a perfect end to our adventure.
Morning: A Scenic Walk
We had two options for our morning walk, depending on the weather / how energetic we felt:
Cwm Idwal Circular Walk: A slightly challenging yet stunning route around Llyn Idwal. The views of the surrounding mountains are incredible, and it’s a great way to immerse yourself in Snowdonia’s wild side. It’s great for kids of all ages or for those baby carrying! It gives you a real experience of some of Wales’ highest mountains! We opted for this walk as the weather was great and Lily was up for the challenge!
Route Guide: Cwm Idwal Walk: An Easy Hike in Eryri
Aber Falls: A gentler option that’s ideal for families. The easy path leads to a gorgeous waterfall, we’ve done this walk plenty of times and Lily is always mesmerised by the cascading water.
Route Guide: Aber Falls Short Walk
Afternoon: Bodnant Garden
To wrap up our trip, we visited Bodnant Garden, a National Trust property that’s truly enchanting. The gardens are vast, with colourful flowers, towering trees, and serene water features. Lily enjoyed running along the paths while we soaked in the beauty. It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on an amazing few days in Snowdonia National Park!
Snowdonia has so much to offer for families, and this itinerary gave us the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and quality time together. Whether you’re walking through charming villages, riding a historic railway, or simply enjoying the natural beauty, Snowdonia is a destination that will leave you with memories to treasure.
If you try this itinerary, I’d love to hear how your trip goes. Have fun exploring! ❤️
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