Road to Lake Bala
Situated within the historic county of Merionethshire on the eastern edge of Snowdonia/Eryri National Park, the market town of Bala sits majestically on the banks of Llyn Tegid, a spectacular lake surrounded by beautiful rugged lowland and mountains. A Ramsar wetlands site, you will find an abundance of wildlife, some only to be found in this area.
Take advantage of the beautiful lake to try your hand at some water based activities while you are there. If you are up for an adventure, tackle the rapids with white water rafting, or for something more sedate, try your hand at canoeing or sailing. There are plenty of trails for walking and hiking, with the Aran Ridge being a brilliant mountain walk with breathtaking views.
Watersports on Lake Bala
If white water rafting doesn’t take your breath away, zip lining or canyoning might do the trick. This area is not for the faint hearted! However, there are plenty of walks and trails in the area if you prefer to keep your feet on the ground and some lovely drives including Blwch y Groes which is the highest road pass in Wales, or over the Berwyn mountains to Pistyll Rhaeadr the highest waterfall in Wales.
Snowdonia/Eryri is also an International Dark Sky Reserve and so a visit to this area is perfect for budding stargazers!
Wales is bursting with spectacular castles, from huge imposing structures to smaller forts. With Bala’s history going back to the pre-Roman era, you will find remains of a Roman fort there.
You will also discover 11th century Norman earthworks and the 13th century ruins of Castell Carndochan. The latter is a challenging walk so only attempt this if you are fit and able.
For days out at larger castles, Beaumaris Castle in Anglesey, the magnificent Bodelwyddan Castle, also home to the National Portrait Gallery in Denbighshire; Conwy and Caernarfon Castle are also worth the drive.
“If white water rafting doesn’t take your breath away, zip lining or canyoning will!”
The town is full of places to stop and recharge – restaurants, pubs and inns and cafes and shops are dotted around the town as well as gift shops, an art gallery and allegedly the best butcher in Wales!
Bala’s other claim to fame is that the largest Welsh Cake in the World was made there; it is in the Guinness Book of Records to prove it!
Browse our full collection of Bala cottages for more holiday inspiration.