Bwlchgwyn Farm, which doubles up as a pony-trekking centre, is a fantastically located campsite clinging to the edge of Snowdonia National Park. Obviously this is a bonus for riders who don’t have far to venture for a daily hack, but even without horses this unfussy campsite comes highly recommended. Stand at the top level and you’ve majestic panoramas of Fairbourne’s long, sandy beach, the Mawddach Estuary and bustling Barmouth (Abermaw). If you tire of this picture-book scene (and you really won’t), there’s so much to do, right on your doorstep, that you’ll have a truly action-packed holiday, should you want one.
Families love the two-mile Blue Flag sandy beach and the rockpools. Shallow tides here mean that the water’s edge is just a short walk from wherever you throw down your towels, which the youngsters like. Surfers love the tides that come swishing in and out of Tremadog Bay, further north, while equestrian fans soon make a beeline for Bwlchgwyn riding stables and Menage, for riding lessons (4 yrs up). The site is equally a winner among groups of friends; those breathtaking views from that top land open up an expansive, airy freedom that sets the perfect scene and pace for a memorable camping party.
There’s a new mobile 6 bathroom/shower and toilet block with 3 sinks, a washing machine and tumble dryer. However long you stay, a horse ride along the beach is a must. Sign up for the daily rides that wend slowly on to the beach. No experience is necessary; beginners can join the slowmoving queue, while experienced riders can join the faster hacks.
Fairbourne village has all you need: post office, grocer, butcher and a fabulous Indian restaurant. It even has the Fairbourne Railway mini steam train shuttling people past Cardigan Bay beaches and the Mawddach Estuary, under the mountains of Snowdonia to Barmouth Ferry Station, from where you can catch a boat to Barmouth. If that’s whet your appetite for locomotive travel then spend a day out with the Cambrian (0845 128 4680) and watch the stunning Welsh coastline unfold before you.
