The best great views campsites near Betws-y-Coed

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The first railway stop in Eyri (Snowdonia) National Park south from Conwy is the important park gateway village of Betws-y-Coed. The “prayer house in the woods,” as the village name translates from Welsh, is made up of a bunch of grey Victorian houses at the confluence of rivers Conwy and Llugwy, but the surrounding area is the most popular part of Snowdonia for camping. Despite being small, Betws-y-Coed has become a big outdoor hub, with the long-distance Snowdonia Slate Trail passing through and Zip World Fforest offering ziplines and other woodland adrenaline rushes nearby. From its proximity to Mount Snowdon to its easy access to the Gwydyr Forest and the rest of the county, Betws y Coed is the perfect place to camp if you want to make the most of North Wales.

  • In Betws-y-Coed, there’s the Conwy Valley Railway Museum with its miniature railway.
  • If you fancy a ride on a full-sized railway, there are plenty to choose from. Try the scenic Snowdon Mountain Railway, which chugs away from Llanberis (16 miles away), or the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway, which sets off from Blaenau Ffestiniog, 11 miles south of Betws-y-Coed.
  • The Swallow Falls cascade on the River Llugwy can be reached on foot from town.
  • Just a few miles south of town is the Gwydyr Forest Park, but if walking among the trees is too tame, head instead for another of the area’s most-visited attractions, Zip World Fforest.
98% (964) 155 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Betws-y-Coed

Tyn Y Ffridd Farm

1. Tyn Y Ffridd Farm

94%
(87)
23km from Betws-y-Coed · 10 units
Dog-friendly camping with mountain views between Anglesey and Snowdonia
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£23
 / night
Mynydd Derwydd Wildcamping

2. Mynydd Derwydd Wildcamping

96%
(68)
23km from Betws-y-Coed · 7 units
Adventurous mountain-top camping on a hill farm in North Wales
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£30
 / night
Bwch Yn Uchaf

3. Bwch Yn Uchaf

98%
(161)
28km from Betws-y-Coed · 20 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Narrow-gauge steam railway station, countryside views, gorgeous riverside setting. What's not to love?!
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Plas yn Llangoed

4. Plas yn Llangoed

94%
(72)
29km from Betws-y-Coed · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Camping pitches and bell tents on Anglesey Island with views across the Menai Strait to the mountains of Snowdonia
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£22
 / night
The Peacock Shepherds Hut

5. The Peacock Shepherds Hut

100%
(14)
30km from Betws-y-Coed · 1 unit
This newly opened Peacock Shepherds Hut is set on our 20 acre smallholding in beautiful North Wales. We have many animals..llamas, alpacas, sheep, goats. Peacocks and Guinea fowl wander freely on our land. Our guests are welcome to meet all of our creatures as well as relaxing in the peace and quiet here.
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£79
 / night
Henbant Permaculture Farm + Camp

6. Henbant Permaculture Farm + Camp

94%
(417)
34km from Betws-y-Coed · 12 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A small, sustainable farm site with epic sea views, set in the foothills of Snowdonia.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night
Bryn Ifan Camping

7. Bryn Ifan Camping

99%
(80)
35km from Betws-y-Coed · 10 units
A back-to-basics campsite with views of mountains and sea on the Llŷn Peninsula
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£20
 / night
Graig Wen - Wild Snowdonia Escapes

8. Graig Wen - Wild Snowdonia Escapes

98%
(275)
43km from Betws-y-Coed · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Succumb to the tranquil hills of Graig Wen. Smart, sustainable and quite simply, lush.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£22
 / night
Nant Bach Retreat

9. Nant Bach Retreat

100%
(27)
51km from Betws-y-Coed · 3 units
Nantbach Retreat offers you the opportunity to step off the conveyor belt of life, reconnect with those most important to you and more importantly yourself. Nestled in our forest with far reaching views over rolling Welsh hills let your attention be focused on the beauty of nature that surrounds you. Choose to stay in either our 2 person bunkhouse with private camp kitchen and shower room, 4 person Landpod with retractable sides located in our forest or our new edition 3 person Pod Father located at the front of Nant overlooking open countryside. Truly unwind with a soak in the 2 person wood fired hot tub looking out to Madryn Garn to the left and Boduan Garn to the right, bookable with the hosts at no extra charge.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£100
 / night
Magical Roundhouse or Train Wagon

10. Magical Roundhouse or Train Wagon

100%
(11)
52km from Betws-y-Coed · 2 units
Cosy, comfortable and well-equipped roundhouse, completely secluded and private on a remote hillside. Views, trees, and hydro powered. Connect with the natural world as a solo retreat, a couple or a family. Complete with hot shower, compost toilet, kitchen with gas oven, hobs and grill, woodburner, small fridge. Tea, coffee and sugar. Fire pit and lounging chairs outside. All products are ethical and eco-friendly. Luxurious bamboo bedding.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£70
 / night
Bolmynydd Camping Park

11. Bolmynydd Camping Park

94%
(43)
52km from Betws-y-Coed · 41 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A dog-friendly campsite on the Llŷn Peninsula with sea and mountain views
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£39
 / night
Tipis at Ponty, Greener Camping

12. Tipis at Ponty, Greener Camping

100%
(57)
56km from Betws-y-Coed · 11 units · Tents, Glamping
Adults-only, dog-friendly camping and glamping on the Powys and Shropshire borders.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£20
 / night
Gwerniago Camping Site

13. Gwerniago Camping Site

96%
(70)
57km from Betws-y-Coed · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Leave it to your kids’ imagination when it comes to this site. Rocky outcrops and magical valleys. It’s a proper fairytale of a site.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£17
 / night
Gwersyllfa Glyndŵr Campsite

14. Gwersyllfa Glyndŵr Campsite

100%
(34)
57km from Betws-y-Coed · 9 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Gwersyllfa Glyndŵr Campsite is a small, peaceful, family run and adult only site for walkers and cyclists. Located within walking distance of the historical market town of Machynlleth, we're a great base for exploring all that rural Mid West Wales has to offer. We're on the Glyndŵr National Walking Trail and the Wales Coast Path. There are many cycling trails of all levels nearby - from the Lon Las and Dyfi Bike Park to Ystwyth and Elan Trails. A short bus ride from us are the Snowdonia National Park, Cader Idris and beautiful beaches of Cardigan Bay. Our guests love the outdoors but like a little relaxation at the end of a day's activities, so we offer a some home comforts in the communal camping facilities barn which has a kitchenette with fridge, kettle, microwave and washing up area as well as an indoor seating area on the mezzanine level. Hot showers and toilets are available in the wet rooms also situated in the barn. You can unwind under the stars in the communal campfire area next to the camping field. There's an outdoor sink on the camping field for cleaning muddy gear and a place to clean your bike if needed. The nearby town offers independent shops, an art gallery and historical buildings. There are plenty of places to eat and drink, grocery shops and a petrol station where you can top up on supplies. You'll get the best of both worlds at this secluded campsite which overlooks the Dyfi Valley's stunning scenery whilst being within stone's throw of local amenities.
Showers
Potable water
from 
£17
 / night
Treflach Farm

15. Treflach Farm

99%
(46)
58km from Betws-y-Coed · 8 units · Tents, Glamping
Bell tents and a yurt on a regenerative farm in Shropshire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£20
 / night
Pengraig Fydlyn

16. Pengraig Fydlyn

98%
(32)
59km from Betws-y-Coed · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Located in a very rural area in North West Anglesey. Set in farmland we have sea views and are close to the coastal path. Our site has basic facilities, toilets, wash basin, washing up sink, disposal point and recycling. We don't have electricity or showers. Mobile signal is very poor on site but you can get signal a short walk up the road We aim to provide our guests with a peaceful stay away from the hustle and bustle of life.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£12
 / night
Pengraig Campsite

17. Pengraig Campsite

96%
(25)
59km from Betws-y-Coed · 2 units
After a secluded stay on Anglesey? Take a peek at peaceful Pengraig Campsite. Up at the isle’s most north-western point near Church Bay, it’s about as far as you can get from the mainland without actually ditching into the sea. With that far-flung setting comes a stunning sea view – one that can be gazed at for many hours from the comfort of your pitch (a recommended activity around sunset, with drink in one hand and a barbecue stoking implement in the other). See the sea from a different angle on the nearby Anglesey Coast Path or while strolling on the sands of one of the local beaches. The waves aren’t the only gazing material around here – turn your back on the coast for scenic views of Mynydd Y Garn, or bring binoculars for a bit of birdwatching. Once darkness falls, direct your gaze upwards; the lack of light pollution means the stars can often put on a glittering show here. This isn’t a place for folks seeking heaps of facilities and entertainment; the emphasis is very much on peace and nature. Low-key amenities include a drinking water supply, a chemical disposal point and a toilet block (with basins and proper flushing loos). If you want to venture out in search of eats, pub meals and seafood suppers are five minutes’ drive away in Church Bay, and a little supermarket 15 minutes away in Cemaes.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£12
 / night
Smugglers Cove Boatyard

18. Smugglers Cove Boatyard

97%
(94)
61km from Betws-y-Coed · 7 units · Tents, Glamping
Camping and rustic glamping in a working boatyard with an exceptional waterside location on the Dyfi estuary
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£25
 / night
Mynydd Mawr

19. Mynydd Mawr

97%
(288)
71km from Betws-y-Coed · 38 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Total peace and quiet at the very tip of the Llyn Peninsula
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£13
 / night
Spring Field Dark Skies Eco Camp

20. Spring Field Dark Skies Eco Camp

100%
(23)
96km from Betws-y-Coed · 38 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Eco Campsite with an emphasis on sustainability. Elevated open views over the Shropshire Hills AONB. Red Kites, Buzzards and Kestrels soaring overhead and Sparrow Hawks flashing by. Wild Deer, Pheasants, Rabbits and Hares, all regular visitors to the camp fields. Nature is very close here if you are quiet and watch. We are in a "Dark Skies" zone so star watching is a must. Bring binoculars. ** NEW luxury heated ladies and gents hot showers and modern toilets. Communal wash-up sink with Hot water. Disposal for Elsan chemicals and Grey water. Fresh water and Solar Eco Generated Solar EH points around the field. FREE WiFi covers the site. Shelter POD Free for all to use in bad weather with Phone charging point and reading lights. Free communal fridge/freezer for all campers. We offer Pre-Booked options of early arrival from 11am on your first day and extended stay on your last day to 6pm. A small "Eco Friendly Site" with a low carbon target. Camping with modern touches. Power is generated from Solar-PV and all pitches have access to Hookup should you need it. The camp has open plan pitches to enhance the views (Pls book hardstanding in wet weather) All Weather 365 Hardstanding pitches. Great for winter or bad weather. If the weather turns bad you can upgrade after arrival (subject to availability) ** Some seasonal hardstanding pitches, please enquire. Approved Fire-Pits, available for hire may be used at the pitch. Check-in is between 3pm and 7.30pm unless early arrival is pre-booked. If you are late please telephone reception. For your security, a time locked access gate operates after 7.30pm. Pass code provided after check-in for 24/7 access.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£26
 / night

The first railway stop in Eyri (Snowdonia) National Park south from Conwy is the important park gateway village of Betws-y-Coed. The “prayer house in the woods,” as the village name translates from Welsh, is made up of a bunch of grey Victorian houses at the confluence of rivers Conwy and Llugwy, but the surrounding area is the most popular part of Snowdonia for camping. Despite being small, Betws-y-Coed has become a big outdoor hub, with the long-distance Snowdonia Slate Trail passing through and Zip World Fforest offering ziplines and other woodland adrenaline rushes nearby. From its proximity to Mount Snowdon to its easy access to the Gwydyr Forest and the rest of the county, Betws y Coed is the perfect place to camp if you want to make the most of North Wales.

  • In Betws-y-Coed, there’s the Conwy Valley Railway Museum with its miniature railway.
  • If you fancy a ride on a full-sized railway, there are plenty to choose from. Try the scenic Snowdon Mountain Railway, which chugs away from Llanberis (16 miles away), or the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway, which sets off from Blaenau Ffestiniog, 11 miles south of Betws-y-Coed.
  • The Swallow Falls cascade on the River Llugwy can be reached on foot from town.
  • Just a few miles south of town is the Gwydyr Forest Park, but if walking among the trees is too tame, head instead for another of the area’s most-visited attractions, Zip World Fforest.
98% (964) 155 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Betws-y-Coed

Tyn Y Ffridd Farm

1. Tyn Y Ffridd Farm

94%
(87)
23km from Betws-y-Coed · 10 units
Dog-friendly camping with mountain views between Anglesey and Snowdonia
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£23
 / night
Mynydd Derwydd Wildcamping

2. Mynydd Derwydd Wildcamping

96%
(68)
23km from Betws-y-Coed · 7 units
Adventurous mountain-top camping on a hill farm in North Wales
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£30
 / night
Bwch Yn Uchaf

3. Bwch Yn Uchaf

98%
(161)
28km from Betws-y-Coed · 20 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Narrow-gauge steam railway station, countryside views, gorgeous riverside setting. What's not to love?!
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Plas yn Llangoed

4. Plas yn Llangoed

94%
(72)
29km from Betws-y-Coed · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Camping pitches and bell tents on Anglesey Island with views across the Menai Strait to the mountains of Snowdonia
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£22
 / night
The Peacock Shepherds Hut

5. The Peacock Shepherds Hut

100%
(14)
30km from Betws-y-Coed · 1 unit
This newly opened Peacock Shepherds Hut is set on our 20 acre smallholding in beautiful North Wales. We have many animals..llamas, alpacas, sheep, goats. Peacocks and Guinea fowl wander freely on our land. Our guests are welcome to meet all of our creatures as well as relaxing in the peace and quiet here.
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£79
 / night
Henbant Permaculture Farm + Camp

6. Henbant Permaculture Farm + Camp

94%
(417)
34km from Betws-y-Coed · 12 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A small, sustainable farm site with epic sea views, set in the foothills of Snowdonia.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night
Bryn Ifan Camping

7. Bryn Ifan Camping

99%
(80)
35km from Betws-y-Coed · 10 units
A back-to-basics campsite with views of mountains and sea on the Llŷn Peninsula
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£20
 / night
Graig Wen - Wild Snowdonia Escapes

8. Graig Wen - Wild Snowdonia Escapes

98%
(275)
43km from Betws-y-Coed · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Succumb to the tranquil hills of Graig Wen. Smart, sustainable and quite simply, lush.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£22
 / night
Nant Bach Retreat

9. Nant Bach Retreat

100%
(27)
51km from Betws-y-Coed · 3 units
Nantbach Retreat offers you the opportunity to step off the conveyor belt of life, reconnect with those most important to you and more importantly yourself. Nestled in our forest with far reaching views over rolling Welsh hills let your attention be focused on the beauty of nature that surrounds you. Choose to stay in either our 2 person bunkhouse with private camp kitchen and shower room, 4 person Landpod with retractable sides located in our forest or our new edition 3 person Pod Father located at the front of Nant overlooking open countryside. Truly unwind with a soak in the 2 person wood fired hot tub looking out to Madryn Garn to the left and Boduan Garn to the right, bookable with the hosts at no extra charge.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£100
 / night
Magical Roundhouse or Train Wagon

10. Magical Roundhouse or Train Wagon

100%
(11)
52km from Betws-y-Coed · 2 units
Cosy, comfortable and well-equipped roundhouse, completely secluded and private on a remote hillside. Views, trees, and hydro powered. Connect with the natural world as a solo retreat, a couple or a family. Complete with hot shower, compost toilet, kitchen with gas oven, hobs and grill, woodburner, small fridge. Tea, coffee and sugar. Fire pit and lounging chairs outside. All products are ethical and eco-friendly. Luxurious bamboo bedding.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£70
 / night
Bolmynydd Camping Park

11. Bolmynydd Camping Park

94%
(43)
52km from Betws-y-Coed · 41 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A dog-friendly campsite on the Llŷn Peninsula with sea and mountain views
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£39
 / night
Tipis at Ponty, Greener Camping

12. Tipis at Ponty, Greener Camping

100%
(57)
56km from Betws-y-Coed · 11 units · Tents, Glamping
Adults-only, dog-friendly camping and glamping on the Powys and Shropshire borders.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£20
 / night
Gwerniago Camping Site

13. Gwerniago Camping Site

96%
(70)
57km from Betws-y-Coed · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Leave it to your kids’ imagination when it comes to this site. Rocky outcrops and magical valleys. It’s a proper fairytale of a site.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£17
 / night
Gwersyllfa Glyndŵr Campsite

14. Gwersyllfa Glyndŵr Campsite

100%
(34)
57km from Betws-y-Coed · 9 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Gwersyllfa Glyndŵr Campsite is a small, peaceful, family run and adult only site for walkers and cyclists. Located within walking distance of the historical market town of Machynlleth, we're a great base for exploring all that rural Mid West Wales has to offer. We're on the Glyndŵr National Walking Trail and the Wales Coast Path. There are many cycling trails of all levels nearby - from the Lon Las and Dyfi Bike Park to Ystwyth and Elan Trails. A short bus ride from us are the Snowdonia National Park, Cader Idris and beautiful beaches of Cardigan Bay. Our guests love the outdoors but like a little relaxation at the end of a day's activities, so we offer a some home comforts in the communal camping facilities barn which has a kitchenette with fridge, kettle, microwave and washing up area as well as an indoor seating area on the mezzanine level. Hot showers and toilets are available in the wet rooms also situated in the barn. You can unwind under the stars in the communal campfire area next to the camping field. There's an outdoor sink on the camping field for cleaning muddy gear and a place to clean your bike if needed. The nearby town offers independent shops, an art gallery and historical buildings. There are plenty of places to eat and drink, grocery shops and a petrol station where you can top up on supplies. You'll get the best of both worlds at this secluded campsite which overlooks the Dyfi Valley's stunning scenery whilst being within stone's throw of local amenities.
Showers
Potable water
from 
£17
 / night
Treflach Farm

15. Treflach Farm

99%
(46)
58km from Betws-y-Coed · 8 units · Tents, Glamping
Bell tents and a yurt on a regenerative farm in Shropshire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£20
 / night
Pengraig Fydlyn

16. Pengraig Fydlyn

98%
(32)
59km from Betws-y-Coed · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Located in a very rural area in North West Anglesey. Set in farmland we have sea views and are close to the coastal path. Our site has basic facilities, toilets, wash basin, washing up sink, disposal point and recycling. We don't have electricity or showers. Mobile signal is very poor on site but you can get signal a short walk up the road We aim to provide our guests with a peaceful stay away from the hustle and bustle of life.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£12
 / night
Pengraig Campsite

17. Pengraig Campsite

96%
(25)
59km from Betws-y-Coed · 2 units
After a secluded stay on Anglesey? Take a peek at peaceful Pengraig Campsite. Up at the isle’s most north-western point near Church Bay, it’s about as far as you can get from the mainland without actually ditching into the sea. With that far-flung setting comes a stunning sea view – one that can be gazed at for many hours from the comfort of your pitch (a recommended activity around sunset, with drink in one hand and a barbecue stoking implement in the other). See the sea from a different angle on the nearby Anglesey Coast Path or while strolling on the sands of one of the local beaches. The waves aren’t the only gazing material around here – turn your back on the coast for scenic views of Mynydd Y Garn, or bring binoculars for a bit of birdwatching. Once darkness falls, direct your gaze upwards; the lack of light pollution means the stars can often put on a glittering show here. This isn’t a place for folks seeking heaps of facilities and entertainment; the emphasis is very much on peace and nature. Low-key amenities include a drinking water supply, a chemical disposal point and a toilet block (with basins and proper flushing loos). If you want to venture out in search of eats, pub meals and seafood suppers are five minutes’ drive away in Church Bay, and a little supermarket 15 minutes away in Cemaes.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£12
 / night
Smugglers Cove Boatyard

18. Smugglers Cove Boatyard

97%
(94)
61km from Betws-y-Coed · 7 units · Tents, Glamping
Camping and rustic glamping in a working boatyard with an exceptional waterside location on the Dyfi estuary
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£25
 / night
Mynydd Mawr

19. Mynydd Mawr

97%
(288)
71km from Betws-y-Coed · 38 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Total peace and quiet at the very tip of the Llyn Peninsula
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£13
 / night
Spring Field Dark Skies Eco Camp

20. Spring Field Dark Skies Eco Camp

100%
(23)
96km from Betws-y-Coed · 38 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Eco Campsite with an emphasis on sustainability. Elevated open views over the Shropshire Hills AONB. Red Kites, Buzzards and Kestrels soaring overhead and Sparrow Hawks flashing by. Wild Deer, Pheasants, Rabbits and Hares, all regular visitors to the camp fields. Nature is very close here if you are quiet and watch. We are in a "Dark Skies" zone so star watching is a must. Bring binoculars. ** NEW luxury heated ladies and gents hot showers and modern toilets. Communal wash-up sink with Hot water. Disposal for Elsan chemicals and Grey water. Fresh water and Solar Eco Generated Solar EH points around the field. FREE WiFi covers the site. Shelter POD Free for all to use in bad weather with Phone charging point and reading lights. Free communal fridge/freezer for all campers. We offer Pre-Booked options of early arrival from 11am on your first day and extended stay on your last day to 6pm. A small "Eco Friendly Site" with a low carbon target. Camping with modern touches. Power is generated from Solar-PV and all pitches have access to Hookup should you need it. The camp has open plan pitches to enhance the views (Pls book hardstanding in wet weather) All Weather 365 Hardstanding pitches. Great for winter or bad weather. If the weather turns bad you can upgrade after arrival (subject to availability) ** Some seasonal hardstanding pitches, please enquire. Approved Fire-Pits, available for hire may be used at the pitch. Check-in is between 3pm and 7.30pm unless early arrival is pre-booked. If you are late please telephone reception. For your security, a time locked access gate operates after 7.30pm. Pass code provided after check-in for 24/7 access.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£26
 / night

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The best great views campsites near Betws-y-Coed guide

Where to go

Eyri (Snowdonia) National Park

Snowdonia National Park is home to mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and forests—with some of the best of them in this northern part of the park. The best way to explore is often under your own steam by walking, cycling, climbing, or kayaking. The options are almost limitless, and the Snowdonia National Park Authority’s information centre in Betws-y-Coed is a good place to learn about the available adventures. Top of the list for many campers is hiking Wales’ highest mountain, the 1,085-metre Snowdon. From Betws-y-Coed and the campsites around it, the most logical place to begin an ascent is the Pen-y-Pass car park. Two well-trodden routes to the top start here: The Miner’s Track and The Pyg Track.

Dyffryn Conwy

Meandering north from Betws-y-Coed toward castle-crowned Conwy is Dyffryn Conwy, the verdant valley the River Conwy carves out. This wood-carpeted area promises excellent campsites at pretty spots like Caerhun and Trefriw, while Snowdonia (Eyri) National Park’s big peaks dominate off to the west. Active highlights include scenic walking, the world’s only artificial lagoon surfing at Adventure Parc Snowdonia, and the woodland adrenaline rushes at Zip World Fforest.

The Glyderau

Ten miles northwest of Betws-y-Coed, Snowdonia’s most drama-charged mountain range (yes, more so than the Snowdon massif) rears up. The Glyderau, and especially the mountain chain’s eastern peaks of Glyder Fach and Tryfan, are picturesquely packed with striking rock formations with top-notch climbing, scrambling and hillwalking. Gain good access from Llyn Ogwen, 10 miles northwest of Betws-y-Coed.

Blaenau Ffestiniog

A 30-minute railway ride or an 11-mile drive southwest of Betws-y-Coed, this once-deprived ex-slate mining town is now a sterling adventure sports destination. Old slate quarries have become some of Europe’s most iconic zip lines and phenomenal downhill mountain biking routes. You can also tour the fascinating Llechwedd Slate Caverns—the town’s only campsite is on the road to the caverns.

When to go

It often rains in Betws-y-Coed, though April through July are the driest months, with around three inches of rain on average. The Betws-y-Coed camping season lasts from Easter to the end of September, but given hillwalking and climbing are best done dry, April and May—before the July/August high season—make for the best overall time to go camping.