Llanbedr, North Wales villageThis pretty village is a leisurely walk away and there is a choice of 2 excellent pubs for a spot of refreshment. Nantcol and Cwm Bychan ValleysExplore these 2 lovely North Wales valleys. A tine country lane from the woodland retreat leads up to the Nantcol Valley and from here follow the river up the Cwm Bychan Valley - look out for feral goats, swooping sparrow hawks, a mysterious lake and ancient chestnut trees. Salem Chapel, Cefncymerau near LlanbedrSalem Chapel and attached caretakers cottage is now a Cadw Grade II listed building. The chapel was made famous by artist Sydney Curnow Vosper (1866 -1942) who painted an old lady, Sian Owen, in a stove pipe hat and Welsh costume attending the chapel. A copy of the painting hangs in the chapel. The original hangs in the Lady Lever Art Gallery, Liverpool. This painting has become an icon of Welsh nonconformists. Copies can be found in many old Welsh homes. Non conformity in Wales contributed significantly to the education of the rural and working classes during the latter 1700's and whole of the 1800's. Shell Island, Harlech Beach and Coastal Path near North Wales woodland retreatMiles of golden sands at Shell Island and Harlech, the Coastal Path now joins these spectacular beaches, stop off at Llandanwg Beach and visit the 12th Century church in the sand dunes. Harlech, North WalesVisit Harlech's magnificent castle - enjoy lovely homemade ice cream near the Castle or an award winning tea at the Cemlyn Tearoom, also recommended for food is the Red Lion pub and for a special treat Castle Cottage Restaurant. Royal St Davids Golf Course, Harlech near North Wales woodland retreatThis fabulous golf course was founded in 1894 and is in perhaps one of the finest locations in Britain and gained its 'Royal' status when the Prince of Wales (Duke of Windsor, later King Edward VIII) played here in the 1930's. Nationally and internationally renowned as a premier course and considered one of the finest links in the world. Portmeirion, North WalesDo visit Portmeirion, the Italian architectural folly famous for the cult film The Prisoner and full of interesting shops and walks. Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland RailwaysThe terminus of the famous Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways is at Porthmadog both go through the sublime Snowdonia countryside. Barmouth and Mawwdach EstuaryBarmouth is a small seaside resort nearby with much to offer - enjoy a coffee in one of the town's oldest buildings 'Davy Jones' Locker' and watch the activities in the harbour. Walk over the Victorian railway bridge that straddles the magnificent Mawddach Estuary and enjoy the amazing views. Check the Dragon Theatre which has a year round programme from cabaret to film screenings. Bring a bike and join the cycle route from just outside this cottage check Lon Ardudwy on the web. BeddgelertExplore one of the most beautiful villages in Snowdonia, enjoy a riverside walk and visit the legendary grave of Gelert, the famous dog!Plas Brodanw Gardens, North WalesThe former home home of Clough Williams Ellis (who developed Portmeirion) is set at the entrance of the enchanting Croesor Valley - well worth exploring. Enjoy these unique gardens and newly opened café - scrumptious home made cakes!RSPB Glaslyn OspreyThis project is close to Brondanw Gardens with a public viewings scheme open from April to the end of August where you can use telescopes and see live footage from the nest-cam. Days awayTake a drive over the Menai Strait to Anglesey, Wales' largest island. Explore the elegant waterside town of Beaumaris with its beautiful castle, traditional seaside pier from which boat trips leave regularly, shops, galleries and good places to eat. Walk the Anglesey Coast Path, peppered with unspoiled beaches and tiny coves. Visit Oriel Ynys Mon Gallery to see the work of Kyffin Williams and Charles Tunnicliffe. Explore Newborough Warren Nature Reserve where red squirrels have been successfully reintroduced and Llanddwyn Island once home to Wales' patron saint of lovers. Enjoy a relaxing getaway in this characterful retreat surrounded by lush woodland.
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Mountains to get lost in; valleys to walk through; beaches to build sandcastles on. Wales is diverse and inviting. Boasting three national parks Snowdonia, Pembrokeshire and the Brecon Beacons and some glorious beaches. Stay on a farm, in a yurt or in a log cabin or simply camp to make the most of the outdoors.