Mountain Biking and Off-roading

For the mountain bike enthusiast we have some of the best rides in Wales!

The mountain bike Mecca of Coed-y-Brenin forest, just a few miles from the hotel, is home to an ever-increasing network of fantastic hand-built all weather single tracks and even a dual slalom course. The technical roller coaster riding will have you grinning like a fool, with stunning mountain views of surrounding Snowdonia and the coast that'll take your breath away.

There is a range of trails to suit different mountain biking skills and fitness levels. Each trail carries a difficulty grade ranging from easy to severe.

Latest details about the Coed-y-Brenin mountain bike trails can be found on the
Coed-y-Brenin mountain bike website.

Cycling and Cycle Touring

If mountain biking is a bit too energetic for you, there are lots of quiet country lanes to explore in the area.

There is a circular ride from the hotel which takes in many panoramic views. The clockwise route proceeds up the Cader Road, around Cregennan Lakes, descends down a gated 'B' road and then back along the Mawddach railway trail to Penmaenpool. The hotel owners are keen cyclists and will be happy to provide recommended bike rides to places of interest.

Mawddach Trail (Llwybr Mawddach) Railway Walk (as seen on the BBC)

The hotel is within easy reach of some of the best walks in Snowdonia. One such walk is the Morfa Mawddach Trail which runs from Dolgellau to Morfa Mawddach and thence to Barmouth across the impressive Barmouth Bridge.

The walk will fascinate historians and railway enthusiasts as the walk follows the old Barmouth branch line of the Great Western Railway which fell under the "Beeching Axe" in 1964.

The walk is about 9 miles from Dolgellau to Barmouth but it is possible to join the trail at Penmaenpool by the wooden toll bridge. Being flat almost throughout, it is suitable for the occasional walker, children and cyclists. Excellent views of the Mawddach Estuary are afforded along the way and from the Barmouth Bridge. A "must" for any visitor to Penmaenuchaf.

Bushcraft Courses & Nature Awareness

Have you ever fancied having a go at outdoor survival, animal tracking or food foraging?

The hotel has teamed up with an experienced bushcraft and nature teacher who can share some of his knowledge with guests who want to try something different. The twenty acres of woodland that surround the hotel provide an excellent venue for students of woodlore and survival skills. (Advance notice required.)

History of Penmaenuchaf Estate

Visitors interested in the history of estates and formal gardens will be fascinated to tour the grounds at Penmaenuchaf Hall. CADW, which lists heritage sites in Wales, has written a detailed report on the development of Penmaenuchaf's grounds and estate from the late 1800s. With CADW's kind permission a copy of the report is available to download and print off. We thoroughly recommend a good walk around the gardens with this as a guide to provide an insight into the history of Penmaenuchaf.

» History of the hall's gardens
  (PDF format, Adobe Reader required.)

Dolgellau Town Trail

The Dolgellau Civic Society have produced a carefully researched and beautifully illustrated guide for visitors to the town.
A copy of the Dolgellau trail guide can be bought at the hotel or downloaded here with their kind permission.

» Dolgellau Town Trail Guide
  (PDF format, Adobe Reader required.)

Bird Watching at Penmaenuchaf and Penmaenpool

Have you had a magical moment with nature? It could be a sunset that just takes your breath away, or a robin strutting along your clothes line. We can guarantee such moments at Penmaenuchaf Hall. One lucky guest spied 56 different varieties of bird life flying over or land on the hotels grounds during the month of June.

We have an RSPB bird observatory box on our doorstep and RSPB walks abound. Just a short drive away you can find the only pair of breeding ospreys in Wales. Through telescopes at the viewpoint enjoy watching the ospreys as they carry food to their developing chicks. You may even be lucky enough to catch the youngster's first flights.
Glaslyn osprey project nr. Porthmadog

Local Fishing

Penmaenuchaf Hall Hotel is privileged to have complimentary fishing permits with the Dolgellau Angling Association.

Please refer to the page dedicated to fishing holidays for full details and additional fishing information.

Golf Courses

Nearby golf courses include Dolgellau Golf Club, Royal St. David's Golf Club , Aberdovey links course and Fairbourne par three course.

Please refer to the page dedicated to golfing breaks for full details and local golf course information.