WALES
Llys Derwen Caravan & Camping Site, Gwynedd
This site had been memorable for me falling out of the ‘Van door and flat on my face on our very first motorhoming trip nearly 20 years ago (I’d forgotten to activate the electric step). This latest visit reminded me of just how much this lovely site has going for it; pristine facilities, spacious pitches and very friendly and helpful owners.
Best of all is its location: hallway between Llanberis, aka ‘gateway to Snowdonia National Park’ and Caernarfon (three miles each way). It’s the ideal base for so many places of interest, from Edward I’s ring of castles, to the National Slate Museum (great for a wet day), Snowdon Mountain Railway and, my favourite, Ffestiniog Railway.
It’s also very easy to pop over the Menai Strait to Anglesey from here, too. Llandudno, the charming walled town of Conwy, the Llyn Peninsula and the Italianate village of Portmeirion are all well within an hour.
We’d come for the walking in the heart of Snowdonia. There is excellent information on Llys Derwen’s website regarding scenic routes and the different paths up Snowdon, plus where to park.
The award-winning Sopna Tandoori Restaurant is about a five-minute drive away, but also delivers to the campsite. It’s just a few minutes’ walk to the popular local inn, Y Glyntwrog, which servesfood. Also in Llanrug is a Spar store and fish and chip shop.
