Top Five Hidden Gems | Trefeddian - Coastal Hotel In Wales

Roman Road

The old Roman Road is a coastal footpath for walkers and explorers at the southern end of Aberdyfi. The path leads to a quiet secluded beach which if you are lucky, you can get all to yourself, known locally as picnic island (it isn’t actually an island though!). The footpath was carved by the Romans out of mudstone, so can be particularly slippery when wet, make sure to wear good shoes! The path has two small bridges that cross natural fresh water outlets that allow the flow of water from the hills into the estuary. The track was built in 1808 for the use of horse and carriage but it is unknown what for or where they were headed! Whatever the use, this local coast path makes for a lovely relaxing walk along the estuary with the water lapping along the rocks and the scenic Cambrian hills in the distance.

Bearded Lake

Headed towards Tywyn is a signpost for Happy Valley. About three miles along this road is the starting point for a 2.5 mile walk to Bearded Lake, a natural beauty spot above Aberdyfi. This is a lovely walk with stunning views as you approach the lake. The lake is covered in water lilies from late June through to September. This is what is thought to have given the lake its name. However, it is said that a very large hairy monster lived in the lake and the name “bearded” refers to this creature. Legend has it that this monster was dragged out of the lake by King Arthur’s horse. The indentation in the rock by the lake is said to have been the hoof print from King Arthurs Horse.

Dolgoch Falls

The Fathew Valley in the south-western part of Snowdonia National Park takes in a wooded gorge along the Nant Dolgoch stream, a tributary of the River Fathew. Here, you will find three waterfalls tumbling down the steep sides of the gorge into pools below, and a popular circular walk links all three waterfalls. The first part of the walk passes underneath the Talyllyn railway viaduct and a viewing platform and then rises after the lower falls. Follow the path along the stream to the steps leading to the middle and upper falls. After leaving the middle falls, the path rises to the upper falls and a picnic area. The trail can be slippery in damp weather but on a hot day, it’s a beautiful place for children to play in the rock pools at the base of the upper falls.

Ynysmaengwyn

A short drive away is Ynysmaengwyn, just outside Tywyn. This beautiful woodland setting is perfect for a walk and wander, or for the more adventurous, there is an orienteering course! Explore the tranquil grounds of the estate once owned by the Corbett family where you can see the ruins of the once grand mansion and where the family’s coat of arms, ‘The Salt King’ can be seen displayed. There is also the Dovecote that stands in the grounds, a walled garden and also a Fairy Glen hidden in the woods. You can walk along the banks of the estuary from here, along the Broadwater to Tywyn if you feel like a longer walk, and loop back to Ynysmaengwyn along the road.

Castell y Bere

A short drive through the Dysynni valley towards the hamlet of Llanfihangel-y-Pennant, is where you will find the wild and rustic remains of Castell Y Bere. It was a remote outpost of Prince Llewellyn Ap Iorwerth (‘The Great’) dating back to around 1221. The remains of the castle are still very visible, however the path up the ruins can be uneven underfoot. It is free to visit, in a peaceful and beautiful location with stunning views all around. Take a picnic and take in the atmosphere amongst the foothills of Cader Idris. Children will also love to explore the castle, let their imaginations run free!