While some may seek a sunny getaway to escape the British weather, others will be chasing the romantic and cosy vibes that a winter staycation can offer.
And there is no better place to do it than in Wales' own Eryri National Park. To be more specific, Betws-y-Coed can look like it's straight out of a fairytale when covered in a blanket of snow, which is looking more and more likely with the weather forecasters predicting the white stuff this month.
The Conwy village offers scenic hikes, fast-flowing rivers and icy waterfalls. It is nestled in a valley where the Llugwy and Lledr rivers converge with Afon Conwy, Betws-y-Coed is a picturesque spot embraced by natural wonders. As it's surrounded by Gwydyr Forest, local operators say the place has a “magical setting” with a “distinctly Alpine feel”, NorthWalesLive reports.
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Since the opening of the A5 in the early 19th century, the village has been a natural crossroads for road travellers. The main A470 bisects the A5 here and the two roads offer a dual gateway to north and south Eryri – the village is long renowned as a natural launchpad for the national park's mountains and activities.
For people familiar with Betws-y-Coed, its accolades are not unexpected but still welcome. Visit Conwy, which promotes tourism in the county, was certainly happy to see the village placed at the top of the pile.
“We're thrilled to announce Betws y Coed has recently been named the Best Winter Staycation spot in the UK,” it said. “With its breathtaking landscapes, charming walks and a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, it is no surprise!”
As a summer honeypot destination, the village's attractions have long been recognised. Just as pleasing for operators will be acknowledgement of its winter allure, with year-round tourism always the ultimate goal for local visitor economies. For the latest restaurant reviews, sign up to our food and drink newsletter here
(Image: Gary Smith)
Latest to signpost Betws-y-Coed's out-of-season appeal was Canada-based publication The Travel. In a list of the 12 UK places to visit for a “magical winter vacation”, the village headed the likes of Cambridge, London and Bath in England, and Edinburgh and Inverness in Scotland. Eryri national park also got a look in, placed eighth for North American visitors.
The Travel said Betws-y-Coed was a place of “quaint charm” and added: “This village is a picture-perfect stage for a wintry fairy-tale vacation,” said the publication. “Whether hiking the scenic woods, hunting icy waterfalls, or getting to know the village's fantastic medieval landmarks, Betws-y-Coed is a perfect place for a magical winter vacation.”
The accolade comes swiftly on the heels of similar recognition by HomeToGo, a holiday rental hub. Betws-y-Coed was named the UK's third cosiest holiday destination on account of its “roaring fireplaces, hearty roasts, pretty tea rooms and breathtaking scenery”.
Topping its list was the seaside village of Beer in Devon. For those yearning for coastal hideaways, the Gwynedd village of Aberdyfi emerged in eighth spot. Support award-winning journalism with WalesOnline's Premium app on Apple or Android.
Stone and slate Betws-y-Coed oozes Welsh heritage, yet the village is perhaps better known as a centre for outdoor activities. Walking dominates, with numerous footpaths through Gwydyr Forest to places like Llyn Elsi reservoir – this one has been rated the most stunning walk in Wales.
Other attractions nearby include the Miners' and Sappers bridges (the latter is currently closed), and scenic walks beside the River Llugwy. Mountain bike trails such as the Gwydir Mawr cater for the more adventurous. So too does nearby Zip World Fforest with its rope swings, toboggan run and 100ft Plummet 2 – the “closest things to freefall this side of an aeroplane”.
It being North Wales, water is plentiful, with Pont-y-Pair Falls in the village and the famous Swallow Falls a mile upstream. A little further afield are, Conwy Falls, Conwy Fish Pass and the mystical Fairy Glen.
And for something completely different, there's overnight accommodation at nearby Go Below Underground Adventures. Deep Sleep offers hut-based glamping in a slate cavern 1,375ft beneath a mountain.
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