The Best Self-Catering Cottages, Lodges, and Camping in Betws-y-Coed

Written by the Wales.org Destination Team | Local Accommodation Experts

Widely celebrated as the official gateway to Snowdonia (Eryri), Betws-y-Coed is the natural, picturesque base camp for those looking to explore one of the most outstandingly beautiful and dramatic parts of the UK. Surrounded by dense, magical forestry and situated exactly where the River Conwy meets its three tributaries, this alpine-style village feels entirely separated from the modern world.

Located just a short, highly scenic drive from the foothills of Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa)—the highest mountain in England and Wales standing at 3,560ft—the charming village of Betws-y-Coed offers something for everyone.

The village boasts a wide variety of independent shops, outdoor gear specialists, traditional Welsh pubs, and excellent cafes. There are hundreds of miles of walking paths and world-class bike trails right on your doorstep, and for the highly adventurous, the famous subterranean trampolines and zip-lining adventures at the ever-popular Zip World are only a few minutes away.

Because the area attracts such a diverse range of visitors throughout the year, the local accommodation scene has evolved to meet every possible demand. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of caravanning, traditional tent camping under the dark skies, renting historic holiday cottages, or soaking in a hot tub at a luxury log cabin, there is absolutely no shortage of places to stay. To help you narrow down your search and find the perfect base for your North Wales adventure, our experts have put together a comprehensive selection of the best self-catering accommodation in and around Betws-y-Coed.

Read on to find your ideal Snowdonia staycation!

Self-Catering Holiday Cottages and Lodges in Betws-y-Coed

Offering the premium luxury of a hotel combined with the total freedom and privacy of a standalone property, self-catering holiday cottages and lodges are the perfect choice for those wanting to combine independence with the absolute best home comforts. As one of the region’s premier tourist destinations, there are numerous properties tucked away in the woodland and along the rivers around Betws-y-Coed. Here are some of our hand-picked favourites.

Penmachno Hall

Sleeps 4 | Bedrooms 2 | Location: Penmachno, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0PU

For those looking for a touch of aristocratic luxury hidden deep within the Welsh valleys, you simply cannot beat Penmachno Hall. Located just 4 miles outside of the bustling Betws-y-Coed centre, this magnificent former rectory offers the perfect balance of rural isolation and easy access to local amenities. Set within 2 acres of immaculately landscaped private grounds, the property is fronted by the gentle, babbling waters of the Glasgwn River. The accommodation itself is fully self-contained within the main house, comprising two exceptionally spacious, highly traditional ensuite bedrooms. It is the ultimate retreat for couples looking to escape the crowds, offering immediate access to the quiet, scenic hiking trails of the Penmachno Valley.

Min Y Don

Sleeps 4 | Bedrooms 2 | Location: Mill Street, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0BB

If you want to be right in the beating heart of the village without sacrificing peace and quiet, Min Y Don is an exceptional choice. This recently refurbished, 3-storey traditional stone cottage sits directly on the riverbank, offering absolutely stunning river views from the windows (where local herons are regular, fascinating visitors). The interior has been brought completely up to date with modern appliances while retaining its historic cottage charm. Because it is located centrally, this self-catering property is perfectly positioned for enjoying the local pubs, artisan bakeries, and starting your woodland walks without ever needing to move the car.

Snowdonia Station Apartment

Sleeps 8 | Bedrooms 4 | Location: Station Road, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0AE

For larger groups looking for something with a truly unique, historical twist, the Snowdonia Station Apartment is nothing short of spectacular. This property is literally located inside the former Victorian railway station buildings. This sprawling first-floor apartment, situated within a Grade II listed building, is conveniently located directly over a row of independent shops and cafes, overlooking the main village green. The incredibly spacious apartment features 4 large bedrooms, a fully equipped modern kitchen, a grand sitting room, a dedicated dining area, and a massive, decked balcony where you can watch the world go by.

Afon Retreat

Sleeps 4 | Bedrooms 2 | Location: Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0AL

A fiercely traditional venue, Afon Retreat is a gorgeous period cottage located right in the heart of the village. This 2-bedroom cottage is completely dog-friendly and features a highly secure bike storage area, making it the ideal base camp for those wanting to tackle the famous Marin Trail. The cottage also heavily benefits from a massive, roaring wood burner in the lounge, making it a highly sought-after destination during the colder, frosty winter months. Beautifully decorated throughout and boasting a private, enclosed garden, the cottage is perfect for returning to after a long day of hiking.

Craig Y Nos

Sleeps 2 | Bedrooms 1 | Location: Capel Garmon, Betws-y-Coed, LL26 0RL

If you are looking for the ultimate romantic getaway, look no further than Craig Y Nos. This highly unusual, bespoke location is designed entirely with couples in mind. The accommodation consists of a cosy, timber-built pod comprising a combined lounge, kitchenette, and bedroom, complete with an internal log burner for those deeply romantic, secluded evenings. However, the true magic is outside. The isolated property offers stunning, uninterrupted panoramic views of the mountain ranges, a private sunken hot tub, and a large decking area. Whether it is a honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a weekend escape, it is the perfect way to disconnect from the world.

Hendre Rhys Gethin Luxury Lodges

Sleeps 4 | Bedrooms 2 | Location: Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0BN

Located right on the leafy edge of Betws-y-Coed, the Hendre Rhys Gethin Luxury Lodges form a premium, family-friendly holiday park offering incredibly spacious, fully equipped 2-bedroom lodges. The site is highly exclusive, offering only a small number of private lodges, ensuring the grounds never feel overcrowded. Many of the lodges come complete with private hot tubs and full disabled access ramps. It’s the perfect, highly manicured location for a quiet family holiday in Snowdonia. Crucially, large single-sex groups are strictly not permitted, meaning there are no loud stag or hen parties to disturb the tranquil family atmosphere.

Maes Mawr

Sleeps 6 | Bedrooms 2 | Location: Maes Mawr, Llanrwst, LL26 0HW

The incredibly charming Maes Mawr is a period detached stone house located just 4 miles northwest of Betws-y-Coed, near the historic market town of Llanrwst. Situated perfectly adjacent to a well-stocked fishing lake and set within 400 acres of sprawling National Park land, the property is perfect for those looking for a truly peaceful break deep within the Welsh countryside. Boasting a beautiful, traditional walled garden, sweeping mountain views from the bedroom windows, and literally miles of untouched country walks starting right from the front door, it is the perfect environment for a relaxing group break.

Coedfa House and Coedfa Bach

Sleeps 12 | Bedrooms 6 | Location: Holyhead Road, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0SG

For massive family gatherings or large parties of hikers, Coedfa House and Coedfa Bach is an absolute triumph. This sprawling, deeply impressive Victorian period house is able to sleep 8 guests comfortably in the main house, and a further 4 guests in the fully detached, adjoining cottage! This colossal self-catering accommodation in Betws-y-Coed boasts an incredible array of preserved period features, including original solid wood flooring, massive exposed stone fireplaces, and beautiful original sash windows. It offers a rare opportunity for a dozen people to stay together without feeling cramped.

Medieval Farmhouse

Sleeps 9 | Bedrooms 4 | Location: Pentrefoelas Road, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0PB

Large parties will also thoroughly enjoy the majestic Medieval Farmhouse, located exactly 2 miles southeast of Betws-y-Coed. This incredibly spacious, officially rated 4-star property is a beautifully preserved Grade II listed farmhouse set within 240 acres of private National Park estate. It serves as the ultimate, luxurious base camp for exploring the wider Snowdonia region. Furthermore, after a gruelling day outdoors scaling the peaks, you and your group can relax in the massive, fully equipped indoor games room, which comes complete with a professional dartboard, table football, and a full-sized pool table.

Chambers Apartment at the Old Magistrates

Sleeps 2 | Bedrooms 1 | Location: The Old Magistrates, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0BP

By way of contrast to the rural farmhouses, the Chambers Apartment at the Old Magistrates is a sleek, highly convenient 1-bedroom self-catered apartment right in the very centre of Betws-y-Coed. Operating as a modern, completely step-free ground floor property built directly into the former Victorian magistrates’ court and historic police station, this incredibly cosy apartment offers a brilliant mix of history and modern living. It features lots of high-end mod cons, a completely private enclosed garden, and an eco-friendly biofuel fire. Plus, it is completely dog-friendly, making it ideal for couples travelling with their pet.

Y Stiwdio / The Studio

Sleeps 2 | Bedrooms 1 | Location: Sarn Helen, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0AA

Another spectacular getaway for couples looking for something with a rich cultural history is Y Stiwdio / The Studio. This immaculate 4-star property was once the historic home and workspace for the famous Victorian artists who originally flocked to Betws-y-Coed to paint the landscapes. It still retains many of its stunning period features, including massive windows designed to let the natural light flood in. Located deep within 2 acres of private woodland inside the grounds of the owner’s main property, it’s a truly secluded, romantic haven and the perfect, highly inspirational base for exploring Snowdonia.

Clydfan

Sleeps 3 | Bedrooms 2 | Location: Denbigh Street, Llanrwst, LL26 0HD

The deceptively quaint Clydfan is located in the bustling, historic market town of Llanrwst, situated just north of Betws-y-Coed. This beautiful end-of-terrace traditional stone cottage has been entirely and painstakingly refurbished, giving the interior a beautifully sleek, modern look throughout while preserving the exterior heritage. The massive, original stone fireplace in the lounge provides a magnificent centrepiece for long, relaxing evenings with a glass of wine, and the property has a highly secure, private garden too, perfect for enjoying a morning coffee in the sun.

Caravanning and Camping in Betws-y-Coed

For many outdoor enthusiasts, caravanning is the ultimate, traditional getaway, offering the familiar comforts of home combined with the total freedom to visit new, breathtaking destinations. For the more adventurous traveller, traditional tent camping offers the unparalleled ability to sleep right under the dark mountain skies. Betws-y-Coed has a massive number of exceptionally high-quality sites for holidaymakers, guaranteeing a brilliant, nature-focused break.

Riverside Touring Park

Location: Old Church Road, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0AL

For pure, unadulterated comfort while on the road, you simply cannot beat the Riverside Touring Park. This highly prestigious, five-star rated park is located—exactly as the name suggests—directly on the grassy banks of the highly scenic River Conwy. Boasting 60 immaculately maintained pitches for touring caravans and small tents, the site is perfectly located for exploring the village on foot. Riverside has a comprehensive range of high-end facilities, including a well-stocked on-site shop, underfloor heated showers, highly reliable electric hook-ups, full laundry services, a dedicated dishwashing room, and fast Wi-Fi.

Cwmlanerch

Location: Cwmlanerch, Padog, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0MU

The highly welcoming, family-run Cwmlanerch site is located approximately a mile north of the Betws-y-Coed village centre. Featuring completely separate, dedicated camping and caravan areas, the site is located directly within a protected conservation scheme, meaning you will be surrounded by a huge, diverse range of local flora and fauna. The caravan site, which offers seasonal touring pitches alongside a few permanent static vans, has a full, modern range of facilities, including an immaculate toilet and shower block, electric hook-ups, commercial washing machines, and tumble dryers.

The adjacent, spacious campsite is located right alongside the River Conwy, directly adjoining the family-run farm. The entrepreneurial family also owns a number of excellent holiday cottages and local shops both near Cwmlanerch and around Betws-y-Coed, which are highly recommended to check out during your stay.

Siabod Huts

Location: Capel Curig, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0DT

If luxury glamping is much more your style, you absolutely must try Siabod Huts. Located directly on a sprawling, operational working farm, these two bespoke, custom-built traditional shepherds huts and a massive luxury pod can comfortably accommodate up to 4 people for a holiday with a genuine difference. This stunning site is located 3 miles east of Betws-y-Coed, sitting directly at the imposing foot of Moel Siabod—the massive, iconic mountain that gives the site its name.

Because you are staying on a true working farm, there is always something fascinating to see, from the roaming local cattle to the bouncing spring lambs—all of which can be safely viewed from the absolute comfort of your own private, bubbling hot tub! The site also features a newly opened, spectacular luxury barn conversion, which can accommodate larger groups of up to 6 people.

Cilcennus Farm Caravan & Camping Site

Location: Llanrwst Road, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0PD

Cilcennus Farm Caravan & Camping Site is another brilliant, independent family-run site, also located just slightly north of Betws-y-Coed. Welcoming both large touring caravans and traditional tent campers, this recently opened, highly modernised site is located on a working agricultural farm. Featuring its own private woodland walk and located very close to the highly popular Tree Tops Rope Adventure course, the site is an exceptional base camp for active families. Facilities include hot showers, covered food preparation and washing up areas, and an excellent indoor games room complete with a pool table for the kids to enjoy when the weather turns.

Dolgam Campsite

Location: Capel Curig, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0DS

Dedicated, hardcore campers will absolutely love the Dolgam campsite. Located a short, highly scenic distance west of Betws-y-Coed along the A5, this picturesque, traditional site offers absolutely stunning, uncompromised views of the surrounding Moelwynion mountain range. The campsite, which also happily accommodates campervans and motorhomes, features a completely modernised shower block with full facilities. The main farmhouse also offers traditional bed and breakfast rooms. However, for the more adventurous traveller, you must try their famous ‘Chicken Coop.’

It is essentially exactly what it says on the tin, except this purpose-built, highly insulated timber coop is designed to comfortably house people instead of chickens! Although you are not exactly spoilt for interior space, it is a quirky, brilliant, and—most importantly given the highly unpredictable Welsh mountain weather—completely dry and warm alternative to traditional canvas camping.

Rynys Farm Camping Site

Location: Rhyd-y-Foel, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0PN

Located just 2 miles south of the Betws-y-Coed village centre, the Rynys Farm Camping Site offers brilliant, highly affordable self-catering accommodation for both tents and touring caravans. Alongside the traditional pitches, they also feature a highly luxurious, fully furnished Shepherd’s Hut and 2 massive, traditional Yurts for those who prefer a spot of glamorous glamping without the hassle of pitching a tent. This highly scenic, elevated site also offers an immaculate, centrally heated shower block, modern toilets, and excellent dishwashing facilities for total convenience during your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions: Self Catering in Betws-y-Coed

Is Betws-y-Coed a good base for exploring Snowdonia?

Absolutely. Known as the official “Gateway to Snowdonia”, Betws-y-Coed is arguably the best base camp in North Wales. It offers immediate access to major mountain hiking trails, the Marin mountain biking trail, and world-class attractions like Zip World, all while providing excellent local amenities, outdoor shops, and traditional pubs.

What are the best self-catering options in Betws-y-Coed for large groups?

If you are travelling with a massive family or a large hiking group, Coedfa House and Coedfa Bach can sleep up to 12 people across a stunning Victorian property. Alternatively, the Medieval Farmhouse sleeps 9 guests and features a brilliant indoor games room, making it perfect for group entertainment after a day on the hills.

Are there dog-friendly cottages in Betws-y-Coed?

Yes, the village is incredibly dog-friendly! Properties like Afon Retreat and the Chambers Apartment at the Old Magistrates actively welcome pets. With hundreds of miles of forest trails and riverside walks starting right from the village centre, it is the perfect destination for a holiday with your dog.

Can I walk to restaurants from my self-catering accommodation?

If you stay centrally, yes. Properties like Min Y Don, Afon Retreat, and the Snowdonia Station Apartment are located right in the heart of the village, meaning you can easily walk to local bakeries for your morning coffee or enjoy an evening meal at a Welsh pub without needing to drive.

Do campsites in Betws-y-Coed offer glamping options?

Yes, many local campsites have expanded to offer luxurious glamping. Siabod Huts offers bespoke shepherd’s huts with private hot tubs on a working farm, Rynys Farm features traditional yurts, and Dolgam Campsite offers a quirky, dry alternative to a tent known as the ‘Chicken Coop’.