Step outside: Five ways to explore Beddgelert and North Wales
- Emma Rose
- Aug 14
- 3 min read
At Tŷ Afon, adventure begins the moment you step outside, between the two rivers of Beddgelert and nestled in the heart of Snowdonia National Park. Our 18th‑Century River House, is entirely enveloped in the great outdoors, offering you a gateway to moorland, mountains and hidden Welsh landscapes that will inspire, calm and surprise. Here, you don’t need to plan a big expedition to feel immersed in the outdoors. Whether you're staying for a few nights or settling in for a while, there’s so much waiting just beyond the doorstep. These are some of our favourite ways to begin your North Wales adventure - gentle, local, and deeply rooted in the land around us.
Stroll into Beddgelert for coffee and local legends
Step over the bridge from Tŷ Afon and into Beddgelert, a village threaded with stories. Wander the quiet lanes, stop in at Tŷ Coets for a coffee and toasted bagel, browse local craft shops, or follow the path to Gelert’s grave; the loyal hound of Welsh legend. It’s a place where time feels slower, the air a little softer, and the everyday world feels far away.
Walk or climb Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) the quiet way
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Wales’s highest peak, rises gently above the valley, its presence felt long before the path begins. From Tŷ Afon, you’re just a short drive or bus ride from the Rhyd Ddu path; one of the mountain’s quieter and more scenic routes, with fewer footprints. Prefer something gentler? The Cwm Bychan trail follows the beautiful river Glaslyn through the woods and returns via remains of the copper mines set amongst the low rugged hillside. Whether you climb or simply stand and admire, the mountain is always part of the story.
Wander the Aberglaslyn Gorge
Just five minutes from our terrace, the path leads you into the deep green hush of the Aberglaslyn Gorge, where the river rushes between moss-covered rock and oak-lined banks. Follow the Fisherman’s Path, carved into the hillside, and watch as waterfalls tumble and tree roots twist into the stone. It’s a walk that feels hidden and timeless and a quiet pocket of wildness just beyond the garden gate.
Paddle or picnic by the river Glaslyn
The tranquil river Glaslyn flows behind our house, a peaceful haven for swimming, paddling, picnicking or stealing a moment of calm. We’ll happily point you to the best rock to sun yourself on or the quietest bend for dipping your toes. The banks are shaded by ancient trees, with grassy patches perfect for spreading out a blanket, pouring a flask of tea, or losing yourself in a book as the water hums gently past.
Take a day trip beyond the valley
For those staying a little longer, adventure stretches further afield. Spend a morning wandering the colourful streets of Portmeirion, where Italian-style facades meet Welsh sea air. Step into the past at Caernarfon Castle, rich with royal history and towering stone walls. Or cross the bridge to Anglesey, where golden beaches and quiet coastal paths offer space to breathe and time to roam.
A word too for our designer, Jonty @cardiganuk; who created this wonderful map and whose thoughtful creativity has shaped how Tŷ Afon and Tŷ Coets look and feel, inside and out. We didn’t find anyone else who came close. His work seamlessly links the two spaces, capturing their individual character while honouring the shared spirit that runs through them both. We’re already dreaming up the next chapter of the project with him, and we couldn’t be in better hands.
Book your stay here at Tŷ Afon and let the adventure begin the moment you arrive.
