Hotels.com has named Beddgelert, a village nestled in Snowdonia National Park, as the most picturesque in Wales, surpassing well-known spots like Portmeirion, Tintern and Llangrannog.
The travel site highlighted the village's location deep between craggy mountains and sheep-speckled valleys, about 30 minutes' drive from the castle town of Caernarfon. It noted that while copper mines and ancient hill forts surround the village, it is the peak of Snowdon, Wales' highest mountain, that attracts the crowds.
Folklore and history
For the Welsh, Beddgelert is closely linked to the legend of Gelert the dog. Visitors can head to the grave of the hound on the outskirts of the village to hear a tale of melancholy and loyalty. In the centre, the centuries-old Royal Goat Hotel offers post-hike refreshments.
The village's name and popularity with early travel writers such as Thomas Pennant and artists like JMW Turner are tied to Gelert, an Irish wolfhound said to have been unjustly killed by Prince Llywelyn the Great. In reality, no such dog existed; the true Gelert was a 7th-century cave-dwelling hermit whose well attracted pilgrims. The dog legend was created by David Pritchard, innkeeper of the Goat Hotel, to draw curious customers.
Natural beauty and attractions
The small river Afon Colwyn runs through the village, offering stepping stone and photo opportunities. Nearby, the Glaslyn gorge features a tumultuous river between steep oak-tree-wooded hills. The area is partly invaded by Rhododendron ponticum, which blooms with pink blossom in May and June but outcompetes local flora.
The village is home to St Mary's Church, one of the oldest Christian buildings in Wales, dating from the 6th century and renovated in Victorian times; it is now Grade II listed. Beddgelert has also served as a filming location, including for Tomb Raider 2: The Cradle of Life, starring Angelina Jolie, and The Inn of the Sixth Happiness, starring Ingrid Bergman, in 1958.
The Beddgelert woodcraft shop, a local institution for over 40 years, offers handmade pieces. Visitors can also take a steam train from the Beddgelert station, part of the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway founded in 1832.
Copper mining in the area dates to the Roman era; the Victorians created the Sygun Copper Mine, one of the largest in Wales, extracting around 3,000 tonnes of copper. It reopened as a tourist attraction 40 years ago and later won the Prince of Wales award. The arched packhorse bridge over the River Colwyn remains one of the village's most iconic views.
