We stayed in "The Tardis" an aptly named cottage about 5 miles from the coast. The cottage itself is very well appointed and spacious, comfortably sleeping 5, and very dog friendly, with an attractive large safe garden. For the humans there's use of a fab hot tub, bbq, and games room. Rufus, our 5 year old labrador was made wholly welcome, there were welcoming treats from the owners for us all. The owners, who live next door are enormously helpful and friendly, helpfully offering advice about local great dog walks, dog friendly pubs and activities, even where to spot the best sunsets! The cottage is in the tiny village of Eglwysbach, its almost next door to a great little pub, which while it doesn't welcome dogs, does a great takeaway pizza! Conwy itself is a scenic harbour town with a castle, range of shops and a good range of eateries, including many which are dog friendly, and go above and beyond, with treats and a warm welcome. Rufus got through quite a few freshly cooked sausages! Conwy Morfa beach is about a 5 minute drive, and is dog friendly all year round. A little further on is Talacre, very scenic with a great pub nearby. We live near the coast, and whilst we love our beaches, wanted to explore more of the National Park itself, so ventured more inland. Here you're on the edge of Snowdonia, and again we found some great walks. The walk from Beddgelert, along the river Afon Glaslyn, through some beautiful woodland was lovely, and Rufus had his picture taken of the heroic hound Gelert, after whom the village is named. Betws y Coed is hugely scenic, if very busy, with bus loads of tourists. Take it easy at the fab Alpine Cafe, then check out Canine and Co billed as the ultimate dog shop, for good reason. Ru just loved their dog deli and happily tucked into some doggy ice-cream! Retail therapy satisfied, walk time: from the A5 out of Betws y Coed, pass the Swallow Falls Hotel on your left and take the minor road on the right before the Ugly House tearoom. From there you can park up, and there's a fantastic walk through woodlands and forest, descending to stunning views of the Swallow Falls themselves. Another great walk is to head inland to Trefriw, where you'll find Llyn Crafnant, a huge reservoir, where your dog can enjoy a dip, and there's a great little cafe, about half way round, on the shoreline. It'll take about 2 hours to walk all the way round the lake, but is well worth it, as the views of the mountains are jaw dropping. And if you want to see some of the best of Snowdonia, but without too much hard work, find Llyn Idwal, near Capel Curig, and the mountain face known as the Devil's Kitchen. Obviously you're in Snowdonia, so wear appropriate footwear and clothing, and be cautious and responsible, watching for livestock, horses, and ground nesting birds.
All in all, we had a truly great holiday, Ru loved every minute, and we have rebooked for next year. |
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