This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Betws-y-Coed.
Betws-y-Coed is a village in the Conwy Valley of Conwy County Borough, all part of the country of Wales. Its name, derived from Anglo Saxon Old English, aptly means “prayer house in the wood.” The village was founded around a monastery back in the late sixth century and is located in the midst of Snowdonia National Park.
Betws-y-Coed is situated where the Conwy, Llugwy, and Lledr rivers meet. Tourists love to walk along the streams and gaze at the waterfalls along the way. Swallow Falls is one of the most popular series of waterfalls in Snowdonia National Park. A walk along this area will provide you with ample photo opportunities as well as some of the cleanest, freshest air you could wish for.
For travelers who have kids in tow or an incredible hunger for adrenaline rushes, there is the Zip World Forest to the rescue. Here visitors can spend hours on a zip safari, mastering a tree top obstacle course, swinging in the canopy, practicing acrobatics in the nets, or bungee jumping from the top. For visitors who prefer a leisure afternoon or anyone with an appetite, there is a wonderful cafe that attracts its own followers for the blissful experience of eating amidst the awe-inspiring scenery.
As your day winds to an end, you may wish to stop by St. Mary’s Church. Depending on the time of your visit, you might be fortunate enough to hear a sample from a local men’s choir as they have a recital or give an entire concert. Marvel at the colorful stained glass windows as the beautiful voices bathe you in an unforgettable glow.
Once evening has set in, you can choose from a couple of hostels in Betws-y-Coed. It is worth your while to research the few options beforehand so that you can be sure that you will have a bed in the hostel which most appeals to you. Whenever there are few choices of accommodations available, your best bet is to ask questions before your arrival so you will come prepared. Each hostel will differ regarding availability of bed sheets, parking spots, storage space, meals, and many other factors. Be sure you have a reservation in a Betws-y-Coed hostel to your liking so that you do not end up stranded without any suitable options upon arrival.
Written by local enthusiast for Betws-y-Coed hostels
Jakob Lombardi