Hotels in Snowdonia

Snowdonia covers over 830 square miles but there are less than 30,000 inhabitants. Therefore hotels and places to stay can be fairly scattered geographically and difficult to locate, especially good quality accommodation within Snowdonia itself.

While most dwellings are situated in the open countryside, there are more populated areas on the eastern side of the park such as Conwy in the north (see links), and Betws-Y-Coed towards mid Snowdonia. Penmachno Hall (01690 760410) offers four star luxury at affordable prices and is only four miles from Betws-Y-Coed, it has just three guest bedrooms but over two-acres of grounds.

Towards the south east and just outside of Bala, Palé Hall (01678 530285) is a privately owned luxurious Victorian Country House set amongst 16 acres of gardens. It has exquisite features including a hand painted ceiling, stunning interiors and a galleried staircase. Queen Victoria was once a guest here and her original bath and bed are still in use today.

At the south of Snowdonia, close to Dolgellau, Penmaenuchaf Hall (01341 422129) offers 14 immaculate ensuite bedrooms all individually designed. This is a genuine country house built in 1860 which overlooks the stunning Mawddach Estuary in peaceful and tranquil surroundings. Recently restored, Penmaenuchaf Hall has a no expense spared approach to taste and style from its roaring log fire and oak panelled dining room to its landscaped grounds and free trout fishing for residence.

In the far south west of Snowdonia, the Llety Bodfor Townhouse (01654 767475) presents itself on the outside as a tall Victorian building but on the inside it is a testament to modern day interior design achievements and contemporary furnishings. Although accommodation is only bed and breakfast, residents are offered membership to a local health club and wide screen TV's! If you wish to stay longer why not hire the new luxury apartment for up to four nights at a time?

Travelling slightly north to Barmouth, Bae Abermaw (01341 280550) is another Victorian building which presents the outer face as a traditional stone building. On the inside it is as modern as can be. Set in stunning scenery, the contemporary minimalist interior with 14 ensuite rooms are just for starters! The hotel serves superb cuisine from Award Winning Chefs.

In the west of Snowdonia is the absolutely first class Portmeirion hotel, situated on the edge of the Snowdonia National Park (01766 770 000). With rich furnishings and antiques, the hotel is located very bizarrely within the Portmeirion fantasy village created by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. This was host to the cult 1960's TV show The Prisoner. Although the original mansion house was built in 1850, it has been extended several times and accommodation is not just offered in the hotel nowadays but in houses around the village.