North Wales Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your North Wales Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

North Wales packs an incredible amount into a small area. I always tell friends to start with Snowdonia National Park - it's not just about the mountains but includes woodland, lakes and 23 miles of coastline. The park covers 823 square miles and contains Wales' highest peak.

Conwy Castle (LL32 8AY, open 9:30-5pm daily) is a must-visit medieval fortress with almost completely intact walls. It scores 4.7/5 on TripAdvisor from over 6,000 reviews. The town itself is worth exploring with Britain's smallest house measuring just 72 inches across.

Portmeirion Village (LL48 6ER) is one of the most unusual spots in the UK. This Italian-style village was built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975. It scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor and was famously used as the setting for the 1960s TV show 'The Prisoner'.

We recommend visiting Bodnant Garden (LL28 5RE, 10am-5pm) for its 80 acres of world-class gardens. The laburnum arch in late May is spectacular - a 55m tunnel of golden flowers that's one of the most photographed garden features in Wales.

Pet Friendly

Dogs love North Wales almost as much as their owners! Most beaches allow dogs year-round or have seasonal restrictions only on small sections. Newborough Beach on Anglesey has miles of sand and forest tracks where dogs can run free.

The Snowdonia National Park has countless walking routes suitable for four-legged friends. I've found the rangers extremely helpful in suggesting routes based on your dog's fitness level and the current weather conditions.

Many pubs welcome dogs. The Ty Gwyn in Betws-y-Coed (LL24 0SG) not only allows dogs in the bar area but provides water bowls and treats. Their Sunday roast is excellent too!

When booking your hot tub cottage, check if they provide dog beds, bowls or enclosed gardens. Many owners go the extra mile with welcome packs for pets. Remember to bring towels specifically for drying your dog after wet walks or beach trips.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in North Wales

Zip World Velocity (LL55 3YT) offers the fastest zip line in the world and the longest in Europe. You'll reach speeds of over 100mph while flying 500ft above a quarry lake. The views across to Anglesey are incredible if you can keep your eyes open! One visitor wrote: "Terrifying but the best thing I've done in years. Staff were brilliant at calming my nerves."

Caernarfon Castle (LL55 2AY) is possibly the most famous of Edward I's iron ring of fortresses. The distinctive polygonal towers and color-banded stonework make it stand out from other castles. It's where Prince Charles had his investiture as Prince of Wales. The town walls are almost completely intact and you can walk most of them.

Great Orme Tramway (LL30 2NB) is Britain's only cable-hauled street tramway. The Victorian engineering is still working perfectly after over 100 years. The journey takes you up the Great Orme headland with stops at the halfway station and summit. At the top, there's a visitor centre, café and spectacular views across to the Isle of Man on clear days.

When is the best time to visit North Wales?

May to September offers the most reliable weather. August is busiest but June is my sweet spot - long daylight hours, wildflowers in bloom and before school holidays increase visitor numbers. The hot tub is especially nice on clear spring evenings when temperatures drop but skies are often clear.

Do I need a car in North Wales?

While public transport exists, a car gives much more flexibility. Many cottages are in rural locations with limited bus services. The Snowdon Sherpa bus network is good for walkers in summer but runs less frequently in winter.

What's the weather like?

Changeable! North Wales can experience four seasons in one day. The western coast tends to be milder while inland areas see greater temperature variations. Always pack waterproofs regardless of the forecast. The mountains create their own weather systems.

Are there good restaurants in North Wales?

Yes! The food scene has improved dramatically. Signatures in Conwy (LL31 9GB) has won Welsh Restaurant of the Year multiple times. For something casual, Lle Hari in Llandudno (LL30 2TY) serves excellent Welsh produce in a relaxed setting.

Is North Wales good for families?

Absolutely. Beyond the obvious beaches and castles, GreenWood Family Park (LL55 3AD) has been voted best family attraction in North Wales for several years. The Welsh Mountain Zoo (LL28 5UY) in Colwyn Bay is compact but well-maintained with conservation programs.

What should I pack for a hot tub cottage holiday?

Bring extra towels specifically for hot tub use, flip-flops for walking between the cottage and tub and plastic glasses if you plan to enjoy drinks while soaking. Swimming costumes are essential unless your cottage is very private!

1. Visit Wales Official North Wales Guide
2. Snowdonia National Park Authority
3. Bodnant Garden National Trust
4. Conwy County Beach Guide