Graig Wen is open for most of the winter months if you’re planning a wild escape for hiking, biking, a birthday celebration or just relaxing in epic scenery. The moody Snowdonia landscape and sunsets over the sea are a photographer’s dream at this time of year. The night skies can be awesome for star-gazing.
What to do
Head to the beaches at Fairbourne or Barmouth for a windswept walk. There’s loads of room for dogs – and kids – to let off steam. The nearest route up our local mountain, Cader Idris, can be walked in around 5 hours on a winter’s day before darkness falls. Don’t forget your head torch though! If it’s not mountain walking weather, you can choose from lower level walks from the door to the Mawddach Trail and Arthog waterfalls. Bring you binoculars to watch the wildlife on the Mawddach Estuary including curlews, little egrets and oystercatchers. Light a camp fire at dusk and you’re bound to hear the tawny owls too. Other winter attractions nearby include the extraordinary Italianate village Portmerion, steam trains at Talyllyn, Fairbourne and the Ffestiniog Railway. Harlech Castle is open year round and there are any number of thrilling activities at Zip World. Cycle along the flat and scenic Mawddach Trail or ride the mountain bike trails in the stunning forest at Coed y Brenin. Bike hire is available locally.
Where to eat
There’s plenty of cosy pubs, places to eat and shops within 10 minutes drive of Graig Wen. In Dolgellau, you can dine on tasty pies at super dog friendly pub The Stag Inn and enjoy a hearty Sunday lunch at The Torrent. In the atmospheric Y Sospan bistro, an historic former courthouse, they serve popular festive baguettes (get there early or pre-order if you don’t want to miss out!). Also in Dolgellau you’ll find probably the best cake in Wales at T.H. Roberts cafe, affectionately known by locals as just “TH”. The friendly and knowledgeable folk at Dylanwad Wine will help you select a great value wine or perhaps a local gin, and you can pick up and some tasty delights from Diana’s Deli which stocks Spanish specialities – their home-made mini cheesecakes are divine! It’s 20 minutes by bike from Graig Wen to the George III pub, 5 minutes drive or you can time your hour and a half walk there along the Mawddach Trail and get the bus back. The Penbryn Bar and Grill by Fairbourne beach is dog friendly and serves excellent steaks and burgers. Seaside fish and chips from The Mermaid in Barmouth is a must!
Chose your stay
Choose your winter break in Snowdonia from Jones the Shepherd’s Hut, Empress and Small Duchess quarry wagons, or we have 4 camper van pitches.
Empress is our new en suite wagon for those who like their home comforts. Small Duchess is super snug and cosy with good cooking facilities and close to the washing facilities. They are warm and well insulated with infrared heaters inside and firebowls outside. Jones the Shepherd’s Hut is in a private glade on it’s own for most of the winter months and has a woodburning stove.
The 4 camper van pitches all have electric and hardstandings. We have hot showers, lovely clean loos and a campfire area in the woods with fairy lights.
Helping you make the most of your time
We give you tips on the best places to eat out, what you need to pre-book, walks from the door and much more in our Guest Welcome Guide/App. It saves you time researching what not to miss and makes planning your trip easy. Check out the link to your personalised Guest App in your booking confirmation.
Check available dates, prices and book online
Our quarry wagons, shepherd’s hut and touring van site are open until early January. Prices for 2 nights glamping start at £150. The camp site re-opens at the start of March. Our holiday cottages are also available for short breaks during some of the winter months.