Things to do in Porthmadog

Our most recommended things to do in Porthmadog

From London: Wales 5-Day Group Tour

From London: Wales 5-Day Group Tour

Day 1: Leave London and travel west to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds through England’s prettiest historic villages. Get the best photos and hear the most fascinating local tales. Travel through the Welsh Marches marked out by the ancient Offa’s Dyke. Head into the heart of the Cambrian Mountains and beautiful Elan Valley. Finally, head to the beautiful seaside town and cultural center of Aberystwyth, where you spend the next two nights. Day 2: Travel north into the mountainous Snowdonia National Park. You visit the beautiful village of Beddgelert, where you can see the grave of ‘Gelert’, the legendary dog. Later you travel to Harlech Castle. Built by King Edward I during his conquest of Wales nearly 800 years ago, this mighty fortress still stands overlooking the peaks of Snowdonia and the sea. After a fulfilling day in the mountains, you return to Aberystwyth in the late afternoon. Day 3: Travel around the coast of Cardigan Bay through Aberaeron to New Quay. Explore the picturesque harbor and get the chance to spot dolphins and whales. You then go inland to explore the Dinefwr Estate* (Newton House) and its ruined castle before heading for Wales’s south coast to visit Laugharne, where Dylan Thomas lived for the last few years of his life and wrote the famous play “Under Milk Wood”. From here, it’s a short distance to Tenby, the small, charming seaside town that’ll be your base for two nights. *When the Dinefwr Estate is closed, you visit Carreg Cennen Castle instead. Day 4: See some of Britain’s most gorgeous coastlines at the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Travel to the tiny cathedral city of St Davids for lunch and exploration, and stop in the county town of Pembroke to enter the thick medieval walls of the castle. From here, return to Tenby for a relaxed evening. Day 5: Leaving Tenby in the morning, begin your return journey to London. Head past the industrial cities of South Wales to the outskirts of Cardiff, and visit the outdoor National History Museum. Take the Severn Bridge back into England, and take a break at Castle Combe, a Cotswold village perfect for a relaxed stroll amongst 16th-century ironstone cottages.

Caernarfon: Mount Snowdon Summit Hike

Caernarfon: Mount Snowdon Summit Hike

Introduction: Join us for an unforgettable adventure as we guide you to the summit of Snowdon via the tranquil and picturesque Rhyd Ddu Path. Our journey begins in the charming village of Rhyd Ddu, where you'll meet your experienced local mountain leader. The peaceful surroundings offer easy parking and convenient toilet facilities, setting the stage for a stress-free start to your hike. Intimate Route: The Rhyd Ddu Path is a hidden gem, offering a quieter, more intimate route to the top of Snowdon, away from the crowded trails. This well-defined footpath allows you to fully appreciate the natural splendor of Snowdonia, with serene landscapes and sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. As you ascend, your guide will share fascinating insights into the region's rich history, geology, and wildlife, making the journey both educational and inspiring. Along the way, you'll pass lush meadows, rugged slopes, and craggy outcrops, each step revealing new vistas and perfect photo opportunities. Dramatic Ridge Walk: A highlight of the route is the dramatic but short ridge walk along Bwlch Main, offering a thrilling experience with stunning panoramic views. This section, while exhilarating, is manageable for most hikers, and your mountain leader will ensure that everyone feels safe and confident as they traverse this unique feature of the Rhyd Ddu Path. Summit Challenge: As we approach the summit, the path becomes more challenging, but your experienced mountain leader will guide you safely through, ensuring an enjoyable climb for all participants. Reaching the summit of Snowdon, standing at 1,085 meters, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views that stretch across Snowdonia and beyond, making the effort truly worthwhile. Descent and Reflection: After savoring the summit experience and capturing those unforgettable moments, we'll begin our descent, retracing our steps to enjoy a different perspective of the stunning landscape. The descent offers a chance to reflect on the achievement and soak in the tranquility of the mountains. Close to Amenities: At the end of your adventure, relax at a nearby traditional Welsh tavern, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Located close to Caernarfon, Beddgelert, Llanberis, Porthmadog, and the Llyn Peninsula, this hike is easily accessible and ideally situated for those looking to explore more of North Wales. Memorable and Enriching Experience: Whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner seeking an adventure, this guided hill walk is designed to provide a memorable and enriching experience. Lace up your boots, pack your camera, and join us for a day of exploration, learning, and awe-inspiring natural beauty on the Rhyd Ddu Path to Snowdon's summit.

Wales' West Coast: Online Road Trip Travel Guide

Wales' West Coast: Online Road Trip Travel Guide

This self-drive route covers the west coast of Wales, known as the Coastal Way, covering 222 miles (365km) and a guide for 17 towns/villages. The route is split into: Llŷn Peninsula, Cardigan Bay and North Pembrokeshire. HOW IT WORKS This online guidebook is designed to take the guesswork out of planning your multi-destination trip. No need for endless internet searches—everything you need is in one place, carefully curated with recommendations and helpful links to dive deeper into each destination. Pick and choose from a variety of ideas, including top attractions, hidden gems, and unique experiences and customise your journey to suit your needs. Tailor the itinerary to fit your schedule, with flexible options ranging from 3 to 14 nights. Get started today with instant access (choose the nearest date as with 1 year’s access, there’s no need to wait until your travel date). Use on smartphone, tablet, or desktop. ........................................................................................................................................................ WHAT’S INCLUDED: Plan your road trip along the west coast of Wales. This flexible itinerary covers up to 222 miles (365km) over 17 destinations. Choose your own itinerary and time frame. Use the guidebook to choose how to spend your time, example: • Llŷn Peninsula: Use the guide to plan your visit to the peninsula, to make the most of its stunning coastline and charming villages, such as Pwllheli and Aberdaron • Cardigan Bay: Decide how to spend your time at the high-hitters around Cardigan Bay, such as Porthmadog, Barmouth and Aberdovey. Discover the best beaches in Cardigan Bay. • Heritage sites: Visit Harlech Castle: Edward I’s Coastal Fortress, Portmeirion Italian Village & St David’s Cathedral. • Aberystwyth: Enjoy a day here strolling along its scenic seafront, taking in the vibrant cultural scene, and the historic Aberystwyth Castle, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Cambrian Mountains. • North Pembrokeshire: Discover charming towns such as Newport and Fishguard, known for their stunning coastal scenery, rich history, and access to the breathtaking Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. • St. David’s: Spend a day or two exploring the smallest city in the UK, its stunning cathedral and picturesque streets Plus so much more to discover! HOW TO ACCESS: see Know Before You Go

Maentwrog, North Wales: Epic Canyoning Half-Day Adventure

Maentwrog, North Wales: Epic Canyoning Half-Day Adventure

Join us for an unforgettable half-day canyoning adventure in the heart of Snowdonia. Our journey begins near Maentwrog, where you'll meet your experienced guides and receive all necessary safety equipment, including wetsuits, buoyancy aids, helmets, and harnesses. After a thorough safety briefing and gear check, we'll embark on our adventure. We'll start with a hike through the stunning landscape, leading us to the entrance of the canyon. As we enter the canyon, you'll immediately be immersed in its natural beauty, with towering cliffs, lush greenery, and the sound of cascading waterfalls setting the scene. Our route will take us through a series of exhilarating obstacles, including rock climbing, scrambling over boulders, and sliding down natural water slides. Throughout the adventure, we'll encounter deep pools perfect for swimming and jumping into, adding an extra thrill to the experience. Our guides will lead you through each challenge, ensuring your safety and providing tips to make the most of your adventure. One of the highlights of this canyoning experience is abseiling down the waterfalls, offering a unique and exciting perspective of the landscape. The grand finale is an epic jump into a crystal-clear pool, surrounded by breathtaking scenery that will leave you in awe. Whether you're an experienced adventurer or a first-timer, our canyoning adventure is designed to cater to all skill levels. With the guidance of our professional and friendly team, you'll feel confident and exhilarated as you navigate through the canyon. This half-day adventure combines the best of hiking, climbing, swimming, and abseiling, making it an action-packed experience that showcases the hidden gems of Snowdonia. Don't miss the chance to explore this stunning region in a unique and thrilling way. Book your spot now and get ready for an unforgettable canyoning adventure in Snowdonia!

Snowdonia: Snowdonia, Portmeirion & Castles Private Tour

Snowdonia: Snowdonia, Portmeirion & Castles Private Tour

*** If your looking for a Sunday or Monday booking please get in touch directly *** We start our tour at our meeting point which is Llandudno railway station (red bus stop outside) immediately outside the station's main entrance. We depart at 8.30 am, so please be early. After our introduction, we will hop onto our minibus and take a drive around Great Orme's one-way road with its spectacular mountain drop off into the sea. Showcasing nature, wild goats and birdlife, and often we see seals and dolphins, as well as limestone cliffs and caves and stunning views towards the mountains. Amble the ancient and medieval castle town of Conwy to view the castle’s domineering and towering walls, whose magnificent towers stand tall over the beautiful estuary. Walk the marina, and visit the iconic world's first built suspension bridge. You'll never forget your visit to Conwy. Admission is free unless entering the main castle. Take a walk around this world heritage site. After all these years, Caernarfon’s immense strength remains undimmed - a brute of a fortress. History comes alive at Caernarfon in so many ways – along the lofty wall walks, beneath the twin-towered gatehouse, the walk town’s narrow and colorful streets and stylishly redeveloped waterfront of the Menai. Enjoy a tour of Portmeirion, wandering around the colourful renowned Italian style coastal tourist village set in stunning surroundings and gardens. There are shops, cafés, tea-rooms and restaurants. This is best described as an artful and playful village with a fantastic collection of architectural relics. Also known as a romantic, picturesque, relaxing and often enchanting village. A “happy relief” from the “rigid irrationalities and the calculated follies” of the modern world. On the return trip, you'll drive through part of the Snowdonia National Park, where we will get to see some of its dramatic mountains and many lakes. Drive through mountain villages, stunning canyon gorges, and views to remember. Snowdonia viewpoint is one of the most dramatic 360 panoramic viewpoints in the UK. all without having to hike to the summit. Quirky and unique is the only way to describe our next visit. Known as the Ugly House, we stop here to learn of its history and how it came to be. Discover the dramatic and beautifully captivating Swallow Falls. This cascading waterfall is majestic in its setting, where the force of water meets natural beauty. Nestled in this unique location next to the flowing river and bridge, we stop off at the majestic location of Tu-Hwnt-I'r Bont, the second most photographed image in Snowdonia! All because of its spectacular and ever-changing appearance. Relax and enjoy the drive down the Conwy valley on return to Llandudno

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Our most recommended things to do in Porthmadog

From London: Wales 5-Day Group Tour

From London: Wales 5-Day Group Tour

Day 1: Leave London and travel west to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds through England’s prettiest historic villages. Get the best photos and hear the most fascinating local tales. Travel through the Welsh Marches marked out by the ancient Offa’s Dyke. Head into the heart of the Cambrian Mountains and beautiful Elan Valley. Finally, head to the beautiful seaside town and cultural center of Aberystwyth, where you spend the next two nights. Day 2: Travel north into the mountainous Snowdonia National Park. You visit the beautiful village of Beddgelert, where you can see the grave of ‘Gelert’, the legendary dog. Later you travel to Harlech Castle. Built by King Edward I during his conquest of Wales nearly 800 years ago, this mighty fortress still stands overlooking the peaks of Snowdonia and the sea. After a fulfilling day in the mountains, you return to Aberystwyth in the late afternoon. Day 3: Travel around the coast of Cardigan Bay through Aberaeron to New Quay. Explore the picturesque harbor and get the chance to spot dolphins and whales. You then go inland to explore the Dinefwr Estate* (Newton House) and its ruined castle before heading for Wales’s south coast to visit Laugharne, where Dylan Thomas lived for the last few years of his life and wrote the famous play “Under Milk Wood”. From here, it’s a short distance to Tenby, the small, charming seaside town that’ll be your base for two nights. *When the Dinefwr Estate is closed, you visit Carreg Cennen Castle instead. Day 4: See some of Britain’s most gorgeous coastlines at the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Travel to the tiny cathedral city of St Davids for lunch and exploration, and stop in the county town of Pembroke to enter the thick medieval walls of the castle. From here, return to Tenby for a relaxed evening. Day 5: Leaving Tenby in the morning, begin your return journey to London. Head past the industrial cities of South Wales to the outskirts of Cardiff, and visit the outdoor National History Museum. Take the Severn Bridge back into England, and take a break at Castle Combe, a Cotswold village perfect for a relaxed stroll amongst 16th-century ironstone cottages.

Caernarfon: Mount Snowdon Summit Hike

Caernarfon: Mount Snowdon Summit Hike

Introduction: Join us for an unforgettable adventure as we guide you to the summit of Snowdon via the tranquil and picturesque Rhyd Ddu Path. Our journey begins in the charming village of Rhyd Ddu, where you'll meet your experienced local mountain leader. The peaceful surroundings offer easy parking and convenient toilet facilities, setting the stage for a stress-free start to your hike. Intimate Route: The Rhyd Ddu Path is a hidden gem, offering a quieter, more intimate route to the top of Snowdon, away from the crowded trails. This well-defined footpath allows you to fully appreciate the natural splendor of Snowdonia, with serene landscapes and sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. As you ascend, your guide will share fascinating insights into the region's rich history, geology, and wildlife, making the journey both educational and inspiring. Along the way, you'll pass lush meadows, rugged slopes, and craggy outcrops, each step revealing new vistas and perfect photo opportunities. Dramatic Ridge Walk: A highlight of the route is the dramatic but short ridge walk along Bwlch Main, offering a thrilling experience with stunning panoramic views. This section, while exhilarating, is manageable for most hikers, and your mountain leader will ensure that everyone feels safe and confident as they traverse this unique feature of the Rhyd Ddu Path. Summit Challenge: As we approach the summit, the path becomes more challenging, but your experienced mountain leader will guide you safely through, ensuring an enjoyable climb for all participants. Reaching the summit of Snowdon, standing at 1,085 meters, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views that stretch across Snowdonia and beyond, making the effort truly worthwhile. Descent and Reflection: After savoring the summit experience and capturing those unforgettable moments, we'll begin our descent, retracing our steps to enjoy a different perspective of the stunning landscape. The descent offers a chance to reflect on the achievement and soak in the tranquility of the mountains. Close to Amenities: At the end of your adventure, relax at a nearby traditional Welsh tavern, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Located close to Caernarfon, Beddgelert, Llanberis, Porthmadog, and the Llyn Peninsula, this hike is easily accessible and ideally situated for those looking to explore more of North Wales. Memorable and Enriching Experience: Whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner seeking an adventure, this guided hill walk is designed to provide a memorable and enriching experience. Lace up your boots, pack your camera, and join us for a day of exploration, learning, and awe-inspiring natural beauty on the Rhyd Ddu Path to Snowdon's summit.

Wales' West Coast: Online Road Trip Travel Guide

Wales' West Coast: Online Road Trip Travel Guide

This self-drive route covers the west coast of Wales, known as the Coastal Way, covering 222 miles (365km) and a guide for 17 towns/villages. The route is split into: Llŷn Peninsula, Cardigan Bay and North Pembrokeshire. HOW IT WORKS This online guidebook is designed to take the guesswork out of planning your multi-destination trip. No need for endless internet searches—everything you need is in one place, carefully curated with recommendations and helpful links to dive deeper into each destination. Pick and choose from a variety of ideas, including top attractions, hidden gems, and unique experiences and customise your journey to suit your needs. Tailor the itinerary to fit your schedule, with flexible options ranging from 3 to 14 nights. Get started today with instant access (choose the nearest date as with 1 year’s access, there’s no need to wait until your travel date). Use on smartphone, tablet, or desktop. ........................................................................................................................................................ WHAT’S INCLUDED: Plan your road trip along the west coast of Wales. This flexible itinerary covers up to 222 miles (365km) over 17 destinations. Choose your own itinerary and time frame. Use the guidebook to choose how to spend your time, example: • Llŷn Peninsula: Use the guide to plan your visit to the peninsula, to make the most of its stunning coastline and charming villages, such as Pwllheli and Aberdaron • Cardigan Bay: Decide how to spend your time at the high-hitters around Cardigan Bay, such as Porthmadog, Barmouth and Aberdovey. Discover the best beaches in Cardigan Bay. • Heritage sites: Visit Harlech Castle: Edward I’s Coastal Fortress, Portmeirion Italian Village & St David’s Cathedral. • Aberystwyth: Enjoy a day here strolling along its scenic seafront, taking in the vibrant cultural scene, and the historic Aberystwyth Castle, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Cambrian Mountains. • North Pembrokeshire: Discover charming towns such as Newport and Fishguard, known for their stunning coastal scenery, rich history, and access to the breathtaking Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. • St. David’s: Spend a day or two exploring the smallest city in the UK, its stunning cathedral and picturesque streets Plus so much more to discover! HOW TO ACCESS: see Know Before You Go

Maentwrog, North Wales: Epic Canyoning Half-Day Adventure

Maentwrog, North Wales: Epic Canyoning Half-Day Adventure

Join us for an unforgettable half-day canyoning adventure in the heart of Snowdonia. Our journey begins near Maentwrog, where you'll meet your experienced guides and receive all necessary safety equipment, including wetsuits, buoyancy aids, helmets, and harnesses. After a thorough safety briefing and gear check, we'll embark on our adventure. We'll start with a hike through the stunning landscape, leading us to the entrance of the canyon. As we enter the canyon, you'll immediately be immersed in its natural beauty, with towering cliffs, lush greenery, and the sound of cascading waterfalls setting the scene. Our route will take us through a series of exhilarating obstacles, including rock climbing, scrambling over boulders, and sliding down natural water slides. Throughout the adventure, we'll encounter deep pools perfect for swimming and jumping into, adding an extra thrill to the experience. Our guides will lead you through each challenge, ensuring your safety and providing tips to make the most of your adventure. One of the highlights of this canyoning experience is abseiling down the waterfalls, offering a unique and exciting perspective of the landscape. The grand finale is an epic jump into a crystal-clear pool, surrounded by breathtaking scenery that will leave you in awe. Whether you're an experienced adventurer or a first-timer, our canyoning adventure is designed to cater to all skill levels. With the guidance of our professional and friendly team, you'll feel confident and exhilarated as you navigate through the canyon. This half-day adventure combines the best of hiking, climbing, swimming, and abseiling, making it an action-packed experience that showcases the hidden gems of Snowdonia. Don't miss the chance to explore this stunning region in a unique and thrilling way. Book your spot now and get ready for an unforgettable canyoning adventure in Snowdonia!

Snowdonia: Snowdonia, Portmeirion & Castles Private Tour

Snowdonia: Snowdonia, Portmeirion & Castles Private Tour

*** If your looking for a Sunday or Monday booking please get in touch directly *** We start our tour at our meeting point which is Llandudno railway station (red bus stop outside) immediately outside the station's main entrance. We depart at 8.30 am, so please be early. After our introduction, we will hop onto our minibus and take a drive around Great Orme's one-way road with its spectacular mountain drop off into the sea. Showcasing nature, wild goats and birdlife, and often we see seals and dolphins, as well as limestone cliffs and caves and stunning views towards the mountains. Amble the ancient and medieval castle town of Conwy to view the castle’s domineering and towering walls, whose magnificent towers stand tall over the beautiful estuary. Walk the marina, and visit the iconic world's first built suspension bridge. You'll never forget your visit to Conwy. Admission is free unless entering the main castle. Take a walk around this world heritage site. After all these years, Caernarfon’s immense strength remains undimmed - a brute of a fortress. History comes alive at Caernarfon in so many ways – along the lofty wall walks, beneath the twin-towered gatehouse, the walk town’s narrow and colorful streets and stylishly redeveloped waterfront of the Menai. Enjoy a tour of Portmeirion, wandering around the colourful renowned Italian style coastal tourist village set in stunning surroundings and gardens. There are shops, cafés, tea-rooms and restaurants. This is best described as an artful and playful village with a fantastic collection of architectural relics. Also known as a romantic, picturesque, relaxing and often enchanting village. A “happy relief” from the “rigid irrationalities and the calculated follies” of the modern world. On the return trip, you'll drive through part of the Snowdonia National Park, where we will get to see some of its dramatic mountains and many lakes. Drive through mountain villages, stunning canyon gorges, and views to remember. Snowdonia viewpoint is one of the most dramatic 360 panoramic viewpoints in the UK. all without having to hike to the summit. Quirky and unique is the only way to describe our next visit. Known as the Ugly House, we stop here to learn of its history and how it came to be. Discover the dramatic and beautifully captivating Swallow Falls. This cascading waterfall is majestic in its setting, where the force of water meets natural beauty. Nestled in this unique location next to the flowing river and bridge, we stop off at the majestic location of Tu-Hwnt-I'r Bont, the second most photographed image in Snowdonia! All because of its spectacular and ever-changing appearance. Relax and enjoy the drive down the Conwy valley on return to Llandudno

Frequently asked questions about Porthmadog

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What people are saying about Porthmadog

Overall rating

5
(6 reviews)

I recently had the pleasure of hiking to the summit of Snowdon with Matt, an exceptional mountain leader. From start to finish, Matt’s experience and deep knowledge of the terrain were evident. He guided me every step of the way, providing helpful insights about the route, local geography, and nature around us. Matt has a warm, friendly personality that instantly made me feel comfortable, and his calm demeanor kept the journey enjoyable and stress-free. Whether it was navigating challenging sections or sharing interesting facts, his professionalism and passion for the outdoors made the hike truly memorable. I highly recommend Matt for anyone looking to explore Snowdon. he’s a top-notch guide!

We traveled to a variety of towns stopping along the way to visit, eat and enjoy the town. The guide provided history of the towns and villages as well as information about the country. Lodging was wonderful. The smaller size of this tour allowed for the development of new friendships. I would recommend this tour.

Absolutely epic half day canyoning with Matt - it was genuinely a fantastic day of hiking, walking, abseiling and cliff diving. It was the highlight of everyone’s trip. Matt was a fantastic guide. Could not recommend this activity more!

Francis was fantastic very helpful and friendly, the bus was comfortable and the hotels adequate.

overall, excellent. Thank you to Helen for the photo advice from the waterloo bridge!