Location
Bryn Melyn
Bryn Melyn is situated on a hill above the seaside town of Barmouth which lies on the west coast of Wales. A short (steep) walk takes you down to the town with the harbour, beach, shops, station, pubs, cafes and restaurants.
Barmouth
"Where the mountains meet the sea"... That's how Barmouth is often described and it's not hard to see why. Nestling at the foot of the Rhinog mountain range in southern Snowdonia and in the shadow of Cadair Idris Barmouth also stands at the mouth of one of the most scenic estuaries in Europe - the Mawddach.
Traditionally a family seaside resort its vast, empty beach simply beckons you to take your shoes and socks off and go paddling whilst the town itself has seen considerable investment in recent years and is now one of the most vibrant resorts on the Welsh coast. A healthy (independent) retail scene with over 60 shops, a multitude of cafes and coffee-shops and a a variety of good-quality restaurants and characterful pubs have put Barmouth well and truly back on the holiday map.
Barmouth is now an all-year-round centre offering excellent access to the whole of Snowdonia and much of mid-Wales. It is especially good for walkers and hikers with easy access to some serious mountains and a number of excellent trails starting from the town itself.
Snowdonia
The Snowdonia National Park is 823 square miles of stunningly beautiful and wildly varied landscape. From the alpine peaks of Snowdon itself to the temperate rainforests of the Vale of Ffestiniog, the lush forests of Betws-y-Coed to the stunning beaches of Dyffryn Ardudwy, there is never a dull moment.
Steeped in history and ancient culture this is a land of legends and mysteries. Great castles, roman remains, neolithic stones - all are there to be explored. A rich industrial heritage has been opened up for visitors to experience with slate quarries and copper mines, hydro-electric power schemes and narrow-gauge steam railways all offering fascinating and enjoyable days out.
For walkers this land is a paradise. There are challenging mountains, well-marked hiking trails to suit all abilities, family walks, coastal walks - in short, every kind of walking opportunity. In recent years Snowdonia has become a centre for thrilling adventures and now boasts one of the most diverse collection of exciting attractions in the country. Zip wires, an indoor surf lagoon, tree-top rope-walks, mountain biking, white-water rafting, a 'Fforest' coaster, caving and underground trampolines - Snowdonia is rapidly becoming the adventure capital of the UK.
There's only one problem with a holiday to Snowdonia; a week will not be long enough.
