The Gateway Of The Llŷn Peninsula
If you’re looking for a natural paradise in North Wales, Criccieth is the place to go. This small coastal town serves as the gateway to the Llŷn Peninsula and offers plenty of activities for families, couples, and adventure-seekers. Whether you’re interested in exploring the rich history of the area, basking in the sun on the beach, or enjoying a long walk, Criccieth has something for everyone.
Here’s a short guide to help you make the most of your visit.
Criccieth Castle is a prominent feature of the town’s coastline. This structure stands on an elevated headland, providing sweeping views of Cardigan Bay and the southern coast of the Llŷn Peninsula.
The castle’s initial construction dates back to the 1230s, by Llywelyn ap Iorwerth (Llywelyn the Great), and was completed by his grandson, Llywelyn the Last. Although it appears impenetrable, the castle was captured by the English in 1283 under Edward I’s banner.
It remained in English hands until it was retaken by Owain Glyndŵr, who burned the towers and claimed Criccieth for the Welsh once again. The castle’s ruins inspired Turner to paint it in 1835. Today, visitors can enjoy a small, informative exhibition in the castle’s ticket office and take in the beautiful views of Tremadog Bay.
Zip World Caverns is located just a short drive from Criccieth. This underground course is set in a historic slate mine and features 13 zip lines, rope bridges, tightropes, and more. It’s the ultimate test of bravery and endurance, taking up to 3 hours to complete.
Zip World Caverns is a perfect activity for families, couples, and even stag and hen parties, as it requires real teamwork and encouragement to help each other navigate the course. And with the activity taking place underground, it’s an all-weather attraction, making it a great option when the Welsh weather isn’t at its best.
Make unforgettable memories and push yourself to the limit at Zip World Caverns, located in the heart of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. And if you’re looking for something a little more laid back, Bounce Below is right next door, offering bouncy trampoline-style nets for some fun in the same stunning setting.
Enjoy the Best Beaches Near Criccieth. The Llŷn Peninsula is home to some of the best beaches in North Wales, and Criccieth boasts a number of great seafront spots of its own. Below Criccieth’s Castle are two beaches, separated by the headland and the prominent medieval structure that stands atop it.
The western beach is sandy and stretches out along the colourful Marine Terrace towards the distant mountains of the Llyn Peninsula, while the eastern beach is a little more pebbly. Its shallow waters, promenade, and proximity to local amenities make it much more suitable for swimming, kayaking, and sailing.
For those who want to venture five miles further, Black Rock Sands is a mile and a half of wide, open beach backed by rugged dunes with the hills and precipices of Eryri (Snowdonia) towering beyond. Visitors can enjoy views of Criccieth Castle to the west and Harlech and the Cader Idris range to the east. The beach is free of pebbles and rocks, and much of the sand is firm and compact, allowing visitors to drive onto the beach.
The Best Walks in Criccieth
Are you looking for some breath-taking walks around Criccieth that don’t involve the towering mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia)? Experience the best of Holidays in North Wales by exploring the Wales Coastal Path that runs right through the town.
Enjoy a selection of easy and mildly-challenging walks with stunning views of the beaches, riverbanks, and countryside. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, the Wales Coastal Path offers something for everyone.
Moel y Gest
Distance: 6.5 miles (10.4km) Difficulty: Moderate
The rugged Marilyn hill of Moel-y-Gest stands at just 263m (863ft), but it more than makes up for its lack of height with its long summit ridge that offers wonderful views out across Porthmadog, Snowdon, and the Llŷn Peninsula. To start your walk, head to Porthmadog Harbour and follow the coastal path south towards Borth-y-Gest before heading up a footpath going northwest to the hill summit.
Lynn Coastal Path: Criccieth to Afon Dwyfor Loop
Distance: 6.9 miles (11.1 km) Difficulty: Easy
This circular route initially follows in the footsteps of the Pwllheli walk mentioned above, heading inland upon reaching the mouth of the Afon Dwyfor and heading to Llanystumdwy. While in Llanstumdwy, it may be worth visiting the David Lloyd George Museum and following the brown sign from the town centre.
From there, you have a few options. You can shorten the hike by continuing along this lane for just over two more kilometres, passing the fishery and eventually reaching the A497 back to Criccieth. To extend the walk, continue northwards from Llanstumdwy along the banks of the Afon Dwyfor towards the B411, although the path loops back on itself before it meets the main road.
Criccieth to Pwllheli
Distance: 13 miles (21 km) Difficulty: Easy
Although it is a long walk, the route along the Coastal Path to Pwllheli is straightforward and rather easy to follow. Starting from Criccieth, you’ll pass the pastel houses of Marine Terrace before joining the Coastal Path. Follow the path until you reach the mouth of the Afon Dwyfor, and then head inland for half a mile to Llanystumdwy. From there, walk alongside the A497 for 2 miles to Afon Wen before the Coastal Path reappears and leads you back towards the coast.
Keep following the path as it crosses the Afon Wen by footbridge, through the caravan park, and then onto Morfa Aberech beach which runs to Pwllheli. Halfway along the beach, the official route directs you inland to Abererch station and suggests a mile-and-a-half walk by the A497 into Pwllheli, as some of the paths may be inaccessible at high tide.
Criccieth may not have the towering mountains and spectacular climbs of Eryri (Snowdonia), but it offers a variety of beautiful yet easy and relaxing hikes along the beaches, riverbanks, and countryside.
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