Top 5 Unusual Things to do in Snowdonia
Snowdonia is famous for its rugged mountains, scenic lakes and endless outdoor adventures, but beyond the well known hiking trails and sightseeing spots lies a completely different side to this spectacular part of North Wales.
If you are searching for unusual things to do in Snowdonia, then you are in luck because the region is packed with unique attractions, quirky experiences and unforgettable adventures that you simply will not find anywhere else in the world.
From underground trampolines hidden inside ancient caverns to walking alongside llamas with stunning mountain views, Snowdonia offers something truly different for tourists looking to create lasting memories. Whether you are planning a family holiday, a romantic break or an adventure-filled getaway with friends, these unusual things to do in Snowdonia are guaranteed to make your trip even more special.
1. Have Fun Underground
One of the most unusual things to do in Snowdonia is to head beneath the mountains and experience the incredible underground adventures at Zip World Llechwedd. Located in the historic slate mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog, this unique attraction transforms an old slate cavern into one of the most exciting adventure destinations in Wales.
Visitors can enjoy the world’s only underground crazy golf course, where imaginative holes and atmospheric lighting create a one-of-a-kind experience deep below the surface. Playing crazy golf underground is certainly not something you do every day, making this attraction a must-visit for anyone looking for unusual things to do in Snowdonia.
For those wanting even more excitement, Bounce Below offers a truly unforgettable experience. Giant trampolines and nets are suspended within a vast underground cavern that is twice the size of St Paul’s Cathedral. Floodlit with colourful lights and connected by slides and walkways, the caverns create an otherworldly playground hidden beneath the mountains of Snowdonia that is fun for both adults and children.
The experience combines adrenaline, fun and awe-inspiring scenery all in one place. Families, couples and groups of friends will all love exploring this incredible underground attraction. It is unlike anything else in the UK and perfectly showcases the adventurous spirit that Snowdonia is famous for.
2. Enjoy the Mediterranean
When most people picture Snowdonia, they imagine dramatic peaks, rolling hills and rugged Welsh landscapes. However, tucked away on the coast near Porthmadog is a colourful village that feels as though it belongs on the shores of Italy.
Portmeirion is one of the most unique and unusual things to do in Snowdonia because it completely transports visitors away from North Wales and into a Mediterranean-inspired paradise. Designed by architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, the village was carefully created to resemble an Italianate coastal town with brightly coloured buildings, elegant architecture and beautiful subtropical gardens.
Walking through Portmeirion feels like stepping into another country entirely. Palm trees line the pathways, pastel-coloured buildings overlook the estuary and charming piazzas create a relaxed atmosphere that is worlds away from the rugged mountains nearby.
Visitors can spend hours wandering around the village, exploring hidden pathways, relaxing in the gardens or enjoying lunch with spectacular coastal views. The peaceful setting and unique architecture make Portmeirion one of the most photographed destinations in Wales.
The village has also appeared in television shows and films over the years, adding to its distinctive charm and character. Whether you are enjoying an ice cream overlooking the waterfront or discovering secret corners hidden throughout the village, Portmeirion offers a truly unforgettable day out.
If you are looking for unusual things to do in Snowdonia that combine culture, scenery and relaxation, Portmeirion should definitely be on your itinerary.
3. Ride the World’s Fastest Zipline
Adventure seekers searching for unusual things to do in Snowdonia will not want to miss the incredible experience of flying across Penrhyn Quarry on the world’s fastest zipline.
Zip World Penrhyn Quarry, located near Bethesda, is home to Velocity 2, an adrenaline-fuelled attraction that allows visitors to soar high above the quarry at speeds of up to 100mph. As you race through the air suspended beneath the zipline, you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Snowdonia, the coastline and the dramatic quarry cliffs below.
The experience begins with a climb to the launch point, where anticipation quickly builds as you prepare to take flight. Once launched, riders experience a sensation similar to flying, gliding across the quarry at incredible speed while taking in the spectacular surroundings.
Velocity 2 is not only one of the most exciting attractions in Wales but also one of the most unique experiences in Europe. The combination of extreme speed, stunning scenery and the sheer scale of the quarry creates an unforgettable adventure.
Even spectators can enjoy the excitement by watching riders launch across the quarry while taking in the dramatic scenery. There is also an on-site cafe and viewing areas, making it a great destination for families and groups.
For adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers, this is easily one of the top unusual things to do in Snowdonia and an experience that you will be talking about long after your holiday ends.
4. Visit the Devil’s Kitchen
Snowdonia is home to many beautiful walking routes, but few are as atmospheric and mysterious as the walk to the Devil’s Kitchen in the stunning Ogwen Valley.
Known locally as Twll Du, which translates to “Black Hole”, the Devil’s Kitchen is a dramatic rock fissure located beneath the towering cliffs of Glyder Fawr. According to Welsh folklore, when steam or mist rises from the crack in the rocks, it means the Devil is cooking within the mountain.
The walk to the Devil’s Kitchen is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Starting in the Ogwen Valley, hikers make their way past the beautiful Llyn Idwal before climbing steeply towards the dark and eerie rock formation.
As you approach the Devil’s Kitchen, the atmosphere becomes increasingly dramatic. Mist often clings to the cliffs while the jagged rocks and steep mountain scenery create an almost otherworldly landscape.
Reaching the famous rock fissure feels like discovering a hidden corner of Snowdonia that many visitors never experience. The views across the Ogwen Valley are spectacular, and the sense of achievement after completing the climb makes the adventure even more memorable.
5. Take a Llama for a Walk
For a truly unique experience in North Wales, head to Black Rock Llamas in Porthmadog where you can enjoy the unusual experience of taking a llama for a walk.
This friendly attraction gives visitors the opportunity to spend time with gentle and curious llamas while exploring the beautiful landscapes surrounding the area. It is one of the most relaxing and memorable unusual things to do in Snowdonia and is ideal for families, couples and animal lovers.
Black Rock Llamas offers a variety of walking experiences that allow visitors to explore scenic countryside, woodland trails and coastal areas alongside their llama companion. Short walks are perfect for younger families or those wanting a relaxed introduction to llama trekking, while longer guided treks provide more opportunities to take in the surrounding scenery and bond with the animals.
The llamas are known for their calm personalities and playful nature, making the experience enjoyable for visitors of all ages. Along the walk, guides share interesting facts about the llamas while helping visitors interact with them safely and confidently.
Many of the routes also offer stunning views of the Snowdonia mountains and nearby coastline, adding even more magic to the experience. Walking with a llama through the Welsh countryside is certainly not something most people expect to do on holiday, which is exactly why it has become one of the most unusual things to do in Snowdonia.
It is a fantastic way to slow down, enjoy nature and create unique memories during your holiday in Snowdonia.
Stay Near Snowdonia with Pario Holiday Parks
With so many unusual things to do in Snowdonia, it is easy to see why North Wales remains one of the UK’s most exciting holiday destinations. Whether you are bouncing through underground caverns, exploring Mediterranean-inspired villages, soaring across quarries at 100mph, hiking to mysterious mountain landmarks or walking alongside llamas, Snowdonia offers unforgettable experiences for every type of visitor.
To make the most of your adventure, book a stay at one of our incredible North Wales holiday parks which are located within easy reach of Snowdonia National Park and all of its incredible attractions. Our holiday parks provide the perfect base for exploring North Wales while enjoying comfortable accommodation, stunning surroundings and easy access to some of the region’s most unique experiences.
Start planning your North Wales holiday today and discover why there are so many amazing and unusual things to do in Snowdonia.