Back
The Best Days Out in Gwynedd
Gwynedd is one of the best places in North Wales to visit for a holiday packed with memorable days out. From long sandy beaches and traditional seaside resorts to thrilling outdoor activities, historic castles and some of the finest walking routes in the country, there is something to suit every kind of holiday maker.
Whether you are planning a family day beside the sea, looking for an adrenaline-fuelled adventure or hoping to explore the area’s fascinating history, you will find plenty of options within easy driving reach of Pario’s Gwynedd Holiday Parks. To help you plan your holiday itinerary, we thought we would provide a little assistance by creating a list of some of the best days out in Gwynedd based on our first hand experiences. Let’s start out by celebrating a style of holiday North Wales is perhaps the most famous for…
Best Beach Days Out in Gwynedd
For many tourists, no holiday in North Wales would be complete without a traditional day out at the seaside. Fortunately, Gwynedd is home to some fantastic coastal destinations, with Abersoch and Pwllheli both widely considered to be the best seaside resorts in the Gwynedd region.
Abersoch is particularly popular with families thanks to its beautiful sandy beaches, sheltered waters and relaxed seaside atmosphere. It is a great place to spend a summer’s day swimming, paddling, building sandcastles or simply relaxing beside the sea. The village itself also has plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants and other facilities, so you can easily combine time on the beach with refreshments and a little exploring. Its shopping district is a particular highlight being made up of small local businesses, designer boutiques and famous brands such as Animal, The White Stuff and Crew Clothing to name but a few.
Pwllheli is another excellent choice for a beach day out in Gwynedd offering a long stretch of sand and promenade alongside a bustling town centre where visitors can find plenty of places to eat, shop and stock up on everything needed for a day beside the sea.
If you are staying at Gimblet Rock Holiday Park, a beach day in Pwllheli could hardly be more convenient. The park provides direct access to the beach from the on-site holiday homes, allowing you to head back whenever you need to grab a bite to eat, collect something you have forgotten or simply dry off after enjoying some time in the sea. This makes Gimblet Rock an excellent base for families who want to make the most of staying right next to one of Gwynedd’s best seaside resorts.
Best Days Out in Gwynedd for Families
When it comes to family-friendly days out in Gwynedd, Glasfryn Parc near Pwllheli is almost impossible to beat. This huge adventure attraction has a colossal collection of activities and facilities, meaning there is plenty to keep children and adults entertained throughout the day and in any season.
During warmer weather, the waterpark is a major attraction, providing a fun way to cool down, while the outdoor go-karting circuit gives budding racing drivers the chance to put their skills to the test. There is also an on-site fishing lake for those who prefer something a little more sedate, while activities such as archery provide another exciting opportunity to try something new.
One of the biggest advantages of Glasfryn Parc is that the fun does not have to stop when the Welsh weather takes a turn for the worse. The attraction also features indoor activities including a ten-pin bowling alley and children’s soft play area, providing options for younger children, families and groups of friends looking for something to do on a rainy day.
With such a varied selection of attractions all in one location, Glasfryn Parc is a Godsend when you are balancing the demands of a group of very different individuals.
Best Days Out in Gwynedd For Adrenaline Junkies
If your idea of a great day out involves speed, heights and plenty of excitement, you’ll be delighted to learn that Gwynedd is home to some of the most adventurous attractions in North Wales.
Zip World has several locations across the region, including the spectacular site at Penrhyn Quarry. This former slate quarry is now home to Velocity 2, which Zip World is officially the world’s fastest zip line. Reaching speeds of more than 100mph, the experience sends participants flying above the rugged quarry landscape for an unforgettable aerial adventure.
Penrhyn Quarry is also home to Quarry Karts, where visitors can take on a 3km downhill course in specially designed go-karts. With plenty of twists, turns and steep sections to negotiate along the way, it is an exciting alternative for anyone who would rather keep their feet a little closer to the ground.
For families, meanwhile, the Zip World site at Llechwedd offers a different kind of adventure. Located at the famous former slate mining site near Blaenau Ffestiniog, it is home to Bounce Below, an underground trampoline adventure set inside a cavern. There is also Underground Golf, described as the world’s first underground crazy golf course, giving families an unusual setting in which to enjoy a round. Whatsmore, both of these attractions are completely unaffected by the weather, making it easier to plan your day out in Gwynedd without worrying about any uncertain variables.
With so many unique experiences available, adventure seekers are spoilt for choice when searching for the best days out in Gwynedd.
Best Days Out in Gwynedd For History Buffs
Gwynedd’s history stretches back centuries, and two of its most impressive historic attractions are Caernarfon Castle and Penrhyn Castle.
Caernarfon Castle is one of the most recognisable castles in Wales. Built by King Edward I during his conquest of Wales in the late 13th century, its enormous walls, polygonal towers and distinctive architecture were intended to demonstrate English royal power. The castle has a particularly important connection to the royal family, with King Edward II having been born here back in 1284. Today, Caernarfon Castle forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward I across the Gwynedd region.
Penrhyn Castle near Bangor offers a very different experience. Despite its medieval appearance, the imposing building was actually constructed during the 19th century as a grand neo-Norman-style country house for the wealthy Pennant family. Visitors can explore its lavish interiors, collections and extensive grounds while learning about the family’s connections to the North Wales slate industry and the family’s wealth from Jamaican sugar plantations.
Both castles offer fascinating insights into very different periods of Welsh history, making them excellent choices for anyone interested in the stories behind some of Gwynedd’s most impressive landmarks.
Best Hiking Days Out in Gwynedd
Gwynedd is a paradise for walkers, and one of the most famous days out in Gwynedd involves heading to Llanberis to take on the Llanberis Path to the summit of Snowdon, Wales largest mountain.
The Llanberis Path is generally regarded as the most popular and one of the least strenuous routes to the summit. Beginning in Llanberis, the route follows the mountain’s western slopes towards the summit, covering approximately 9 miles there and back. Despite being considered the gentler option, it is still a challenging mountain walk requiring good footwear, appropriate clothing, plenty of food and water.
The reward for reaching the summit is the spectacular panoramic scenery stretching across Snowdonia National Park, the Welsh coast and, on clear days, far beyond. Dogs can also accompany walkers on the Llanberis Path, provided they are kept under control and on a lead where appropriate. Owners should remember that mountain conditions can change very quickly and that the route should not be attempted by those who aren’t in a good physical condition..
There are several other walking routes up Snowdon, including the Pyg Track, Miners’ Track, Watkin Path and Rhyd Ddu Path. These offer different scenery and challenges, but some are considerably steeper, rockier or more physically demanding than the Llanberis Path. They should therefore be considered primarily by walkers with strong fitness levels and appropriate mountain hiking experience.
Enjoy the Best Days Out in Gwynedd With Pario
From relaxing on the beaches of Abersoch and Pwllheli to racing downhill at Penrhyn Quarry, exploring historic castles or tackling the Llanberis Path, there are countless best days out in Gwynedd just waiting to be discovered.
With Pario Holiday Parks providing fantastic bases across the Gwynedd region, you can enjoy a holiday that combines relaxation with days of adventure. Book a stay at one of our Gwynedd holiday parks today and take advantage of our excellent locations to explore the beaches, attractions, mountains and historic landmarks that make this one of the most varied and exciting parts of North Wales.