This is the official web-site for the Betws-y-Coed & District Tourism Association providing accommodation in the Betws-y-Coed area of Snowdonia.
Attractions of North Wales and Snowdonia
North Wales is small. But our list of attractions is big. You can visit the locals at Conwy RSPB Nature Reserve, or the not-so-locals at Pili Palas.
by Dave Newbould
THE ROYAL CAMBRIAN ACADEMY
In the second half of the 19th Century, North Wales was home to the first Artists' colony in Britain. It emerged from the summer sojourns of the artist David Cox at Betws y Coed between 1844 and 1856 and by 1881, the Conwy Valley was famous as both a home and resort for a large number of artists.
Born out of a need for association with other artists,a desire for the cross-fertilisation of ideas and a gallery in which to display their work, a group of local artists met to consider the idea of " A Cambrian Academy of Art ".
By January 1882, the thirtyone founding members had been accepted and three months later, thanks to the influence of Mr Gladstone who obtained the patronage of Queen Victoria, "The Royal Cambrian Academy of Art " was born.
A three day walk around the base of Snowdon
There is presently no formal route around the highest mountain in Wales and England, but the route does exist on the ground.
A two or three day walk around the most famous mountain in the United Kingdom passing through three very different but equally beautiful valleys. Wonderful views, great walking and a wealth of history and lore all make for probably the biggest 'missed opportunity' in the Welsh tourism product.
If you enjoy movies or TV of any kind, we're sure you'll find something of interest and our site will tell you the location along with lots of general information and links for you to find out even more about what we feel are the best locations in the UK.
If you are tired by life, come to the Betws-y-Coed, you will be breathless just standing still
Betws-y-Coed was founded around a monastery in the late sixth century, and grew very slowly with the development of the local lead mining industry. In 1815, the Waterloo Bridge built by Thomas Telford to carry A5 road across the River Conwy and through the village brought considerable transport-related development. The village became a major coaching centre between Corwen (to the east) and Capel Curig (to the west) on the Irish Mail route from London to Holyhead, which led to the improvement of the roads south to Blaenau Ffestiniog and north to Llanrwst and Conwy.
Whatever a rider's experience (or lack of it) accredited riding establishments across North Wales offer something for everyone, giving the chance to soak up the glorious views while the horse takes the strain.
The Betws-y-Coed area of North Wales has some of the best mountain biking trails in the UK!
Snowdonia is quickly becoming known as an area ideally situated and resourced for mountain biking.
Where Conwy dreams in secret nook.
The locality's claim to angling fame is in having not only good runs of salmon but also excellent runs of sea trout (sewin)
Apart from the pleasures and challenges posed by rod and line, the angler based in Betws-y-Coed is given the opportunity for relaxation and observation within valley, woodland and moorland settings of rich variety and considerable beauty.
Betws y Coed Snowdonia North Wales