If you want to have a holiday where you feel like you are in a different country without the hassle of travelling by aeroplane then North Wales could be a brilliant choice. We recently visited for a week in a large group of family and friends. We had 3 adults, two teenagers and 5 children aged 4-8. There were lots of things to do for this wide range of people. We stayed in Borth-y-gest which is just on the edge of Snowdonia. Travelling through the mountains was stunning and gives a feeling you are going somewhere magical.

Portmeirion

Portmeirion is a village full of amazing buildings. You can almost imagine you are in Italy. It was designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975. This was where the TV show The Prisoner was filmed and you could see why they chose such a unique location.

As well as the buildings there are beautiful grounds to explore. As well as collections hardwood trees the woods are full of stunning multicoloured rhododendrons. You can walk through the woods or take a ride on the train.

It is definitely worth taking a walk to the viewpoints where you can see stretches of golden sand.

Harlech Castle

I don’t think you can go to Wales and not visit a castle. North Wales is full of treasure. Harlech castle is really beautiful and perfect for princess-loving children. There are a lot of steps but the view from the top of the crumbling battlements is worth it.

It’s very windy at the top of Harlech Castle so make sure you pack a good pair of straighteners and an anti-static brush.   

Ffestiniog Railway

I think you have to assume there will be a couple of rainy days for any UK holiday. A trip on the Ffestiniog Railway is great for those days. The railway goes over the hills through Snowdonia and the scenery was stunning.

Dwyfor Ranch Rabbit Farm and Animal Park

One for the younger children this is a brilliant way to spend the day and really great value for money. There is a great variety of animals. Of course there are lots of rabbits. The girls loved the puppies and the pony rides best. I was impressed that a ride only cost £2.

Beaches

The thing I will come away with most were the beautiful beaches. North Wales has miles of sandy beaches with mountains in the background. The children loved building sandcastles, collecting shells and fishing with there nets in the clear water.

  If there was one image which would sum up our trip to North Wales this would be it: