What do you think, when you hear the name Porthmadog? You probably already know this is a fascinating and thriving coastal town near Snowdonia. You may have even called in on your way to the many attractions in the area.
But did you realise that Porthmadog offers a rich treasure trove of reasons to stay awhile? And there are quite a few hidden gems there that even the most loyal visitors may not know about.
Beaches best known, and quieter spots
One of the many great attractions Porthmadog offers to visitors is its splendid beaches, none more so than Black Rock Sands and Morfa Bychan Beach which are just along the coast from the town.
This large stretch of stunning sand could hardly be described as a hidden gem as it has been visited and loved by countless holiday makers staying in hotels in Porthmadog for many years.
This is not surprising, as it is a truly amazing piece of coastland, affording a view of the sea framed by the southern Snowdonia mountains. Black Rock Sands is a site of Special Scientific Interest, so it is certainly a place to linger and explore.
However, though you may already be familiar with Black Rock Sands and Morfa Bychan Beach, you could have missed out on a lesser known coastal treat in the area – Borth-y-Gest beaches. These take a bit more time to find as they are a diverse range of bays and coves; however, they offer huge potential to explore. Or simply find a quiet haven of peace in one of the coastal nooks to soak up the views across the estuary to Portmeirion.
Wild water swimming
An even more remote, hidden gem awaits those who want to go even further off the beaten track. A few miles out of Porthmadog you can follow a trail to Cwm Pennant, an incredible freshwater blue lagoon tucked away in one of Snowdonia’s most remote and beautiful valleys. The author of Wild Swimming, Daniel Start, lists it amongst his favourite waters.
Getting out in the great outdoors
You can’t come to this part of Wales without having a look at some part of the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways and the Welsh Highland Heritage Railways. However, if you want to spot some of this area’s more remote natural locations, then another form of transport may help.
If you are staying in a hotel in Porthmadog, ask about local quad bike excursions. It’s a great way to see the incredible unspoilt mountain sides and coastal paths in all their splendour. Another outdoor location that’s a hidden gem around Porthmadog is Glaslyn Ospreys, on the banks of the River Glaslyn, north east of the town. It is the perfect spot for a picnic, or to patiently wait for a sighting of rare ospreys in some months.
Heritage and attractions
Folklore and the draw of the sea give this part of Wales much of its unique and fascinating culture, and there are places around Porthmadog to soak it all up, especially the well-curated Maritime Museum.
But there are other ways to experience the flavours and ambience of Welsh traditions in Porthmadog such as the Purple Moose Brewery. It doesn’t just sell its own unique beverages but also brews and distillations from other Welsh producers.
Enjoying holidays and short breaks in a hotel in Porthmadog means being able to soak up Welsh culture in other ways too. This is a part of the world that has nurtured and attracted many Welsh authors, poets, artists and musicians.
If are staying in a hotel in Porthmadog, leave time to experience all the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of this inspiring area. Pop to the Y Ganolfan Arts Centre in Porthmadog to see what modern-day inspiration has arisen from the town. And take a leisurely stroll through Porthmadog’s lovely shopping streets to seek out the craft shops that offer locally produced goods at fair prices.
Stay a while
There is one more gem for visitors to find on their holidays and breaks to Porthmadog – the beautiful Golden Fleece Inn. The friendly and welcoming staff at this relaxing hotel in Porthmadog are always happy to share their local knowledge with visitors.
