Things to do

After a day exploring the hills, coast, or forests of Snowdonia, there’s nothing better than settling into a cozy pub with a cold drink and a warm meal. Luckily, there are some fantastic pubs just a short walk or drive from Ty Isaf—many of them dog-friendly and full of local character.

Whether you’ve hiked Cadair Idris or just strolled down to the beach and back, here are some of our favourite nearby pubs for post-walk relaxing.

1. The Ysgethin Inn (Talybont – 10-minute walk)

Why we love it:
This is our local—and it’s a gem. Just a short walk from Ty Isaf, The Ysgethin Inn is tucked beside the river with a large beer garden, stone interiors, and a menu full of hearty classics.

Perfect for:

• Post-beach pints

• Pub lunches with dogs in tow

• Sitting outside with a view of the hills
  
  

Good to know:

• Dog-friendly inside and out

• Often hosts live music and quiz nights

• Serves Sunday roasts and local ales
  
  

2. The Last Inn (Barmouth – 10 minutes by car or bus)

Why we love it:
A historic, sea-salt-soaked pub with quirky charm and a big local following. Low ceilings, slate floors, and flickering candlelight give it a true “tavern” feel. Perfect after walking the Barmouth Bridge or exploring the beach.

Perfect for:

• A post-hike treat

• Cosy, atmospheric evenings

• Enjoying fresh seafood or a pint with a sea view
  
  

Good to know:

• Book ahead in peak times—it gets busy!

• Dog-friendly in the bar area

• Excellent food, especially the fish pie
  
  

3. George III Hotel (Penmaenpool – 25 minutes by car)

Why we love it:
Set right on the Mawddach Estuary, this historic inn is worth the short drive. Ideal for a drink after walking or cycling the Mawddach Trail, it has stunning views and a lovely terrace.

Perfect for:

• Longer walking days

• Treating yourself after a flat estuary ramble

• Quiet riverside moments with a pint

Good to know:

• Dog-friendly

• Parking available

• Sit outside for the best views
  
  

4. The Victoria Inn (Llanbedr – 15 minutes by car)

Why we love it:
A walker-friendly pub with generous food, local charm, and a great garden. It’s the kind of place you can turn up in boots and waterproofs and feel instantly at home.

Perfect for:

• Grabbing lunch after a waterfall walk

• Dog walks along the River Artro

• Families and larger groups

Good to know:

• Very dog-friendly

• Kid-friendly too

• Large portions, good veggie options
  
  

5. Tafarn y Dderwen (The Oakley Arms – Maentwrog, 25 mins)

Why we love it:
Surrounded by trees and trails, this one is perfect for those venturing toward Coed y Brenin or the Ffestiniog area. A stylish gastropub with great food, big windows, and walking maps by the door.

Perfect for:

• Post-forest exploring

• A slightly more refined pub meal

• Cosy nights after a drizzly hike

Good to know:

• Dog-friendly in the bar

• Beautiful countryside views

• Plenty of parking
  
  

Before You Go:

• Most pubs listed are dog-friendly, but it’s always best to double-check during busy seasons

• Muddy boots? Bring a bag or towel for your dog

• Booking ahead is wise in summer and on weekends

• Fancy walking between pubs? Ask us for a circular route recommendation!

Walk. Wander. Welcome the Pub.

The best walks end in a good pub—and at Ty Isaf, you're spoiled for choice. Whether you're after a quiet pint, a bustling beer garden, or a full post-hike feast, there's a welcoming spot nearby where you can kick off your boots, tuck in, and raise a glass.

A peaceful woodland walk right from your doorstep at Ty Isaf

Not every great walk in Snowdonia has to involve a summit. Sometimes, the most magical moments are the quiet ones—walking beside a rushing river, beneath a canopy of trees, with the sound of water and birdsong for company.

Luckily, Ty Isaf sits just a few steps from the Ysgethin River, and a beautiful, lesser-known trail runs alongside it. It’s a perfect low-level, dog-friendly walk, great for an easy morning stretch, a shaded afternoon wander, or a post-pub loop.

🥾 About the Walk

• Start/Finish: Ty Isaf (walk out from the door!

• Distance: ~2.5 miles (4km) round trip, or longer if you explore further

• Difficulty: Easy

• Time: 1–1.5 hours (leisurely pace)

• Terrain: Woodland paths, some uneven ground, occasional tree roots or rocks

📍 Route Overview

1. Start from the Ysgethin Inn and cross the small stone bridge over the river.

2. Follow the woodland trail upstream, with the river on your right.

3. The path climbs gently and winds through oak and birch woods, sometimes opening up to mossy boulders, pools, and even small waterfalls.

4. You can follow the river all the way to Pont Scethin, a historic packhorse bridge used in the 18th century (and allegedly by smugglers!).

5. Return the same way or create a loop by exploring side paths toward the hills or back roads into Talybont.

🐾 Why Guests Love It

• Starts right at Ty Isaf—no driving needed

• Dog-friendly and quiet, even in high season

• Great shade and shelter on rainy or hot days

• Lovely spots for a riverside picnic or paddle

• Wild, unspoiled scenery with a sense of timelessness

🌿 Add Some Local Colour

The Ysgethin Valley has a quiet, secretive feel—it's rich in history and once part of an ancient drover’s route through the hills. The trail is rarely crowded, giving you a sense of stepping into an older, untouched part of Snowdonia.

In spring, you’ll find bluebells and wild garlic. In autumn, the golden light through the trees is simply magical. All year round, the river gurgles beside you like a constant companion.

📸 Guest Tip:

Bring a camera or phone—there are some beautifully framed shots of river bends, tree arches, and old stonework that make this one of the most photogenic walks near Ty Isaf.

Because a little rain never ruined a good holiday

Let’s be honest—this is Wales. And in between the golden light and dramatic skies, the clouds will roll in and the rain will fall. But when you're staying at Ty Isaf, a rainy day isn’t a washout. It’s just another part of the adventure.

Here are 10 lovely, low-key things to do when the weather turns, all within easy reach of Ty Isaf.

1. Warm Up at a Cozy Café

Head to Barmouth and duck into Dolphin Café, The Last Inn, or Bendi-gedig for a great coffee, a hot chocolate, or a full Welsh breakfast. Bonus points if it’s by the fire.

2. Visit Harlech Castle

Rain only adds to the drama of this imposing, sea-facing fortress. Wander the battlements, learn the history, and imagine medieval life in a storm. It’s only a short drive away.

3. Curl Up With a Book by the Fire

This is why Ty Isaf has that beautiful log burner. Grab a blanket, make a brew, and sink into a book while the rain taps the windows. That’s not wasted time—that’s the dream.

4. Taste Local Goodies at Slate Caverns Farm Shop

Near Blaenau Ffestiniog, this farm shop is a treasure trove of Welsh cheeses, chutneys, and locally baked treats. Great for gifts—or for stocking up for the evening ahead.

5. Explore the Corris Craft Centre

This indoor collection of studios and small shops is home to candle makers, chocolatiers, and local artists. Watch them work, ask questions, and take something handmade home.

6. Tour the Dyfi Distillery (and have a tipple)

Also at Corris, this award-winning distillery is known for its wild foraged botanicals and stunning gins. Book ahead and enjoy a quiet, grown-up afternoon indoors.

7. Catch a Film at The Dragon Theatre, Barmouth

A quirky, characterful community theatre and cinema set in a converted Victorian chapel. Rainy days = the perfect excuse for popcorn and a matinee.

8. Bring Out the Board Games

At Ty Isaf, rainy days are made for slow living. Light the fire, make hot drinks, and break out the board games (or cards, or a puzzle). There’s magic in the simple things.

9. Go Local Shopping in Dolgellau

Browse through independent shops, galleries, and antique corners in this beautiful slate-street town. You'll find hand-thrown pottery, Welsh wool, and stories behind every storefront.

10. Make it a Spa Day... at Home

Hot shower. Essential oils. A glass of wine. A face mask you forgot you packed. With Ty Isaf’s peaceful vibe and modern comforts, you don’t have to leave the house to feel pampered.

Rain is Just Another Mood

One of the best things about staying at Ty Isaf is that it doesn’t need sunshine to be beautiful. The fire’s still warm. The sea still moves. The stories still unfold.

So pull on your boots if you fancy it—or stay tucked in and listen to the rhythm of rain on a 400-year-old roof.

Either way, you’re in exactly the right place.

Staying at Ty Isaf puts you right in the heart of one of the UK’s most stunning national parks. From dramatic peaks and forest trails to historic villages, castles, and adrenaline adventures, Snowdonia has something for everyone—rain or shine.

Here’s our handpicked guide to the best things to do during your stay.

 1. Portmeirion Village

Distance from Ty Isaf: ~40 mins drive

A magical, Italianate village tucked into the coast near Porthmadog. Designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, Portmeirion is all pastel buildings, tropical gardens, and cobbled streets. It’s perfect for a relaxed day of strolling, photos, and ice cream.

Great for: Families, photographers, fans of The Prisoner, architecture lovers

2. Zip World Adventures (Blaenau Ffestiniog)

Distance: ~35 mins

If you're after a thrill, Zip World is home to the fastest zip line in the world, plus underground trampolines (Bounce Below), high ropes, and mine tours. Set in an old slate quarry—it’s like nowhere else.

Great for: Adrenaline junkies, teens, and adventurous families

3. Harlech Castle

Distance: ~20 mins

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Harlech Castle rises dramatically above the sea on a rocky crag. Wander its walls, learn about its role in Welsh history, and enjoy incredible views across the dunes and beyond.

Great for: History lovers, families, photographers

4. Barmouth Town & Beach

Distance: 10 mins

A classic seaside town with a sandy beach, old-fashioned charm, independent shops, and great fish & chips. Don’t miss the walk across the famous Barmouth Bridge over the Mawddach Estuary.

Great for: Beach days, ice cream, shopping, evening strolls

5. Cadair Idris (Mountain Walks)

Distance: ~25 mins (Minffordd car park)

One of Snowdonia’s most beautiful mountains—less busy than Snowdon but just as breathtaking. Choose from several trails (some very challenging) with sweeping views and wild lake stops.

Great for: Confident walkers, nature photographers, bucket-list hikers

6. Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways

Distance: Departs from Porthmadog (~40 mins)

Take a journey through time on a heritage steam train, passing through valleys, mountains, and castles. A peaceful, scenic way to take in Snowdonia’s beauty—especially with kids or on a rainy day.

Great for: Families, train enthusiasts, slow-paced exploring

7. Coed y Brenin Forest Park

Distance: ~25 mins

Ideal for walkers and mountain bikers, this vast forest park has trails for all levels, waterfalls, picnic spots, and a dog-friendly café. A must-do for nature lovers.

Great for: Families, dog walkers, cyclists, forest bathing

8. Local Food & Drink Experiences

• Dyfi Distillery (Corris): Award-winning gin tasting

• Slate Caverns Farm Shop (Blaenau): Local Welsh produce

• Dolgellau Market (Thursdays): Artisan food, crafts, and more
  
  

9. Beaches Near Ty Isaf

• Talybont Beach – Just minutes from the cottage

• Dyffryn Ardudwy – Long, open beach with dunes

• Harlech Beach – Dramatic setting near the castle

• Fairbourne Beach – Quieter, good for families
  
  

10. Stargazing & Sunsets

Snowdonia is a Dark Sky Reserve, which means incredible views of the night sky on clear evenings. At Ty Isaf, watch the sunset from the balcony, then step outside and look up—no light pollution, just stars.

Great for: Stargazers, photographers, romantic evenings

Don’t Forget the Dog!

Many of these places—especially beaches, castles, and forest parks—are dog-friendly, so your four-legged companion doesn’t have to miss out on the adventure.

Winter doesn’t just suit Ty Isaf—it transforms it. As the pace of the world slows and the air grows crisp, our 400-year-old cottage comes into its own. Whether you're here for a peaceful escape, a windswept walk, or just to curl up by the fire with a good book and your dog at your feet, winter at Ty Isaf is something truly special.

Fireside Living

Step inside and leave the cold behind. The heart of Ty Isaf is the inglenook fireplace, where the log burner crackles through the evening and the thick stone walls hold the warmth. Light a fire, pour a glass of red, and sink into the kind of deep relaxation that only winter invites.

Bonus: You’ll find board games, books, and blankets at the ready—everything you need for a snug night in.

Walks Worth Braving the Chill

The coast in winter has a magic all its own. Head down to Talybont Beach for a bracing walk along the sand, where the waves crash louder and the wind carries the scent of salt and pine. Or venture inland to the Ysgethin River Trail, where mossy paths, bare trees, and the gurgle of the water create a quiet kind of wonder.

Prefer a hike? Try Cadair Idris or a section of the Mawddach Trail—you'll often have the paths to yourself.

Dark Skies & Northern Lights

As part of a Dark Sky Reserve, Ty Isaf offers some of the best stargazing in Wales. Wrap up warm, step out onto the first-floor balcony, and you might see Orion’s Belt, the Milky Way, or even a shooting star.

And on rare, extraordinary nights—when the skies are clear and the solar winds are just right—you may be lucky enough to witness the aurora borealis. Yes, the northern lights, visible from right here at Ty Isaf, dancing above the sea.

It’s a moment of pure magic, and one you’ll never forget.

A Winter Treat for Dogs Too

Ty Isaf is proudly dog-friendly, and winter is the ideal time for long, leash-free beach runs and peaceful woodland sniffing. With fewer people on the trails, your four-legged friend can enjoy true off-season freedom—and then warm up by the fire, paws toasty and tail thumping.

Slow Food & Local Comfort

After a long walk, you’ll want something hearty. The Ysgethin Inn, just down the lane, serves up classic comfort food in a cozy riverside setting. Or head to Barmouth for fish and chips eaten hot from the paper, with the sea roaring in the background.

Prefer to cook in? The modern kitchen at Ty Isaf has everything you need for lazy breakfasts, roast dinners, or mulled wine simmered slowly on the stove.

Thinking of Coming for Christmas or New Year?

Ty Isaf is a wonderful place to spend the holidays. Imagine a tree in the corner, presents by the fire, and a brisk Christmas Day walk on the beach before tucking into something delicious. We decorate simply but beautifully—and you're welcome to bring your own touches too.

Wrap Up and Wind Down

Winter at Ty Isaf isn’t about doing it all—it’s about doing less, more deeply. Reading by the fire. Watching the waves roll in. Letting the season slow you down.

Whether you’re visiting for a romantic retreat, a walking break, or just a change of pace, winter here feels a little quieter, a little more magical—and now and then, when the stars align, it even glows.

If you're staying at Ty Isaf, you're in the perfect spot for some of the most scenic and dog-friendly walks in Snowdonia. Whether you're after windswept beaches, forest trails, or breathtaking mountain views, there's something for every pace—and every paw. Here are our five favourite walks to enjoy with your four-legged friend.

1. Talybont Beach – Just Minutes from the Door

Distance: Choose your length (flat)
Why it's great: Endless space for dogs to run, soft sand, and the sound of the waves

Start your day with a short walk to Talybont Beach, just down the lane from Ty Isaf. At low tide, the beach opens up into a vast, open stretch—perfect for zoomies and sea-chasing. Out of summer season, dogs are welcome across most of the beach, and even during summer, there's a designated dog-friendly area. Bring a tennis ball, a flask of tea, and watch the sun rise (or set) over the Irish Sea.

2. Coed y Brenin Forest Park

Distance: Various trails from 2km to 15km
Why it's great: Shaded woodland, riverside paths, and off-lead heaven

A short drive from Ty Isaf brings you to Coed y Brenin, a sprawling forest park with a wide range of waymarked trails. Many are gravel or soft woodland paths—easy on paws and ideal for any weather. There's even a dog-friendly café near the visitor centre. Expect waterfalls, pine-scented air, and wagging tails.

3. The Mawddach Trail

Distance: 15km (can be shortened)
Why it's great: Flat, scenic, and completely traffic-free

Starting in nearby Barmouth, the Mawddach Trail is a disused railway line that now serves as one of Snowdonia’s best loved walks and cycle routes. It's perfectly flat, making it accessible for dogs (and humans!) of all fitness levels. Enjoy estuary views, birdlife, and mountain backdrops as you follow the trail inland toward Dolgellau. You can walk as far as you like—just turn around when you’re ready.

4. Cregennan Lakes and Arthog Falls

Distance: 4–6km
Why it's great: Lakes, hills, waterfalls, and incredible views

This circular walk is a real treat. Drive a short distance to Cregennan Lakes, tucked into the foothills of Cadair Idris. The walk includes Arthog Falls, rocky paths, and panoramic views over the Mawddach Estuary. It’s quieter than other routes, making it perfect for nervous or reactive dogs. Don’t forget your camera—the scenery is jaw-dropping.

5. Cadair Idris (Short Route from Minffordd)

Distance: 3–5km options
Why it's great: A manageable mountain adventure for confident walkers

If your dog (and you!) are up for a bit more of a challenge, Cadair Idris is a must. The route from Minffordd offers both short and steep options, and although the summit is serious business, even the lower loops are incredibly rewarding. Pack water and be prepared for rocky ground—but the effort is worth it. On a clear day, the views are unforgettable.

Before You Go...

• Bring water and snacks—for both of you!

• Be mindful of livestock and local wildlife

• Check the tide times before heading to the beach

• Always follow the Countryside Code

• Bring a towel for sandy or muddy paws (Ty Isaf has a hose outside too!)
  
  

After the Walk

Return to Ty Isaf for a hot drink, a roaring log fire, and a well-earned nap (for humans and dogs alike). With sea views, sunsets, and luxury comfort, it’s the perfect base for exploring Snowdonia on four legs.