Welcome to our journey through the tranquil landscapes of Barmouth and the picturesque surroundings of North Wales in our self build campervan, Roy. With our trusty companion, Indy the Springer Spaniel, in tow, we embarked on a remarkable weekend getaway that took us from charming harbours to pristine beaches and enchanting waterfalls.
Day 1: Exploring North Welsh Beaches
Our adventure began in the quaint coastal town of Barmouth, where we set off to explore the scenic harbour. The sea wall guided our footsteps as we marvelled at the tranquil waters and the gentle sway of boats anchored at low tide. It was the perfect start to our weekend escape.
Continuing our journey northward by car, we arrived at the Benar Beach car park. A pristine white boardwalk led us through a labyrinth of sand dunes that opened up to the expansive Benar Beach. Indy, our Springer Spaniel, revelled in the endless stretches of sand, running tirelessly along the shore. Surprisingly, there were only a few fellow beachgoers, allowing us to savour the serenity of this hidden gem.
After hours of play and leisurely strolls along the shore, we set off in search of our weekend campsite near Dolgellau. Our choice, Llwyn yr Helm caravan and camping park, surpassed our expectations. With warm and welcoming hosts, top-notch facilities, and even a dedicated dog exercise area, it was an ideal base for our adventure. As we took an evening walk, the stunning surrounding scenery left us in awe, with breathtaking vistas in every direction.
Day 2: Cooling Off at Coed y Brenin
The night had been hot and humid, leading to a restless night in the van. Eager to make the most of the day, we headed to Coed y Brenin. Indy and I tackled the Gain Waterfall Trail, a perfect choice for a scorching day. The forest provided welcome relief from the heat, and the trail’s refreshing water elements offered respite and tranquility.
By the time we returned to the van, the temperature inside had soared. We popped our reflective window covers to cool it down and reflect some of the intense heat. As evening approached, we realised we had forgotten some essential cooking utensils. So, we opted for a delicious pizza dinner at Mawddach Pizza, where mouthwatering pizzas came with an unbeatable view. They were dog friendly, which added to the appeal too.
Day 3: Discovering Hidden Waterfalls
On our final day, we decided to take a detour on our way home and explore Lake Vyrnwy. Our destination was the Rhiwargor Waterfall, a spot we hadn’t explored before. Despite arriving late in the morning, we were pleasantly surprised to find the area relatively uncrowded.
Our hike followed the path along Afon Eiddew stream, leading us to the captivating waterfalls. The tranquility and natural beauty were simply breathtaking. As we descended back to the car park, we noticed more visitors arriving.
Before concluding our memorable getaway, we took a brief detour to the end of Lake Vyrnwy, soaking in the beauty of its serene waters.
Our weekend in North Wales had been a tranquil escape, offering us the perfect blend of natural beauty and peaceful moments. It was a reminder that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones closest to home.
Until next time, keep exploring and embracing the beauty of the world around you.