Y Stabal, Gwynedd

Just five miles from pretty Porthmadog is the lovely seaside town of Criccieth - sometimes referred to as the 'pearl of Wales on the shores of Snowdonia'. This pretty settlement boasts a dramatic skyline due to its 13th Century castle perched majestically on a rocky outcrop with superb views over Tremadog Bay and the Snowdonia mountains. The area offers a host of activities and water sports enthusiasts will be delighted by the facilities available at the two pristine beaches. Inland, walkers and cyclists can enjoy of the beautiful Snowdonia National Park. As well as excellent sports facilities, the beaches provide great opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to spot porpoises and are a picturesque backdrop for the town's many pubs, restaurants and tea-rooms. The area is also home to Portmeirion's wonderful Italianate gardens, the Ffestiniog railway in Porthmadog and the stunning castles at Harlech and Caernarfon.