This quick guide to Betws y Coed Fairy Glen gives you all the information you need for enjoying an adventure to the most enchanting place in Gwydir forest, North Wales.
Betws y Coed Fairy Glen Essential Info
This magical spot tucked away in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, is a must for things to do in Betws y coed. In this blog post is the rundown on what it is, where it is, parking, costs, opening times, facilities, walking routes and how much time you should allow.
What Is The Fairy Glen Betws y Coed?
Well geographically speaking it’s a narrow ravine framed by trees through which the River Conwy flows. And it’s name in Welsh, Ffos Noddyn, simply translates as ‘deep ditch’. But in reality Betws y Coed Fairy Glen is much more than this.
You see photographs just don’t do it justice, the magic of the place has to be seen to be believed. And as you descend into the emerald green realm of the Fairy Glen Gorge, it truly feels like you’re entering another dimension.
Steeped in folklore, Betws y Coed Fairy Glen has been the subject of many a poem telling of faeries and sprites, concealed behind magic and toadstools under moonlight.
And it’s no wonder when this thickly wooded sheer gorge with incredible rock formations and tumbling cascades of water is the epitome of spellbinding. It’s dramatic and serene and sensationally atmospheric all at the same time.
Where Is The Fairy Glen Gorge?
Just two 2 miles from pretty village Betws-y-Coed is where you’ll find the Fairy Glen Gorge. Coming from that direction, turn off the A5 onto the smaller more windy road A470 road. Then you need to swing up a lane by the side of the Fairy Glen Hotel.
There is a small signpost, but it can be difficult to spot as it is on a sharp bend. The Fairy Glen Betws y Coed postcode for your sat nav is LL24 0SL. Or alternatively the coordinates to plug in are 53.075179, -3.794559.
Fairy Glen Wales Parking
From the lane you’ll enter a small car park on private land. If you are in a larger vehicle like a campervan you’ll need to park in a small layby opposite as the access is very narrow.
Alternatively, if you fancy a bit of a longer walk, you can park further up the road at Conwy Falls which has a much bigger car park. Then make your way back through Gwydir forest from there. This is the approach we took and it was stunningly peaceful.
How Much Does It Cost?
If you’re parking in the dedicated Betws y Coed Fairy Glen car park it’s £1 per vehicle. The lay-by opposite is free as is the carpark at Conwy Falls. Although the cafe there does ask that you make a purchase.
Entrance to the fairy glen Betws y Coed is then £1 per adult and 50p per child. All fees are paid via an honesty box at the access gate. It’s cash only, so come prepared with change.
Dogs are allowed, but they must be kept on a lead at all times.
There have been some negative, nasty and downright rude reviews about the owners to the site in recent times but they are absolute nonsense. We met them while we were there and they were perfectly pleasant and helpful.
It’s such a small charge to pay to see such a beautiful place and the carpark and paths don’t maintain themselves. If you aren’t happy to pay, just don’t bother coming. It really is as simple as that.
Betws y Coed Fairy Glen Opening times
There are no specific times. Although for however wonderful and peaceful this place is, it really isn’t somewhere you want to be visiting when dark or during bad weather.
What Facilities Are There?
There are a few picnic tables dotted around both near the entrance and along the river. But there are no toilets or waste bins so come prepared to take all your rubbish away with you.
There are quite a few popular wild swimming spots if you fancy a dip but obviously do be careful and know that the water will be very cold whatever the time of year.
Fairy Glen Betws y Coed Walk
The start to the Betws y Coed Fairy Glen walk begins as an easy stroll through woodland and farmland. You’ll then reach a fork with a signpost and can choose one of two routes.
The scenic one along the babbling river and through the gorgeous forest is signposted as ‘Riverside’. The other marked ‘Fairy Glen’ is a more direct approach with a short but mildly challenging descent.
Both routes are steep and have loose rocks so wear sturdy shoes. You may need to use your hands in some parts. We met someone down there who had slipped on one of the rocks and cut his leg open. Really do watch your step down there.
As mentioned you can also reach the entrance to the Fairy Glen Gorge from the car park at Conwy Falls. The walk is around 20 minutes.
You can also walk in from the village in around 40 minutes.
How Much Time To Allow?
Allow for at least an hour, including the walk from the entrance gate. But you could also take a picnic and spend a good few hours there taking in some more of the charming surroundings.
Where To Stay In Betws y Coed
Tyn Y Fron | This gorgeous Victorian country house is located less than 10 minutes walk from the village centre. Expect individually decorated rooms, a lovely garden and delicious brekkie.
Olif Guesthouse | Choose between river or forest views in these modern and stylish rooms, situated in the heart of Betws y Coed. Guests rave about how comfy the beds are.
Maes-y-Garth | Just a 10 minute stroll from the village, this alpine style guest house offers panoramic views of Conwy Valley. Balconies are available and breakfast is included.
More on Wales
- 10 Quirky Places To Stay In Anglesey For Couples
- 7 Romantic Places To Stay In Betws y Coed
- 7 Epic Betws y Coed Holiday Cottages
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Yorkshire born & bred, Sarah is a professional blogger who loves to travel. Pushing her boundaries with new adventures is her jam, so you likely won’t find her in one place for too long. Also a serious Marmite addict.
