Best of the Meirionnydd Coast Path

Check-in at the hotel is available from 16:00. If you are a member you can arrive at the house from 14:00 in 2026. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea at 16:30 and meet other guests.

Distance: 8.5 miles (13km) 

Ascent: 590ft (180m) 

From Penrhyndeudraeth (meaning ‘the cape between two beaches’), we’ll cross the Dwyryd Estuary before following an embankment beside salt marshes. Enjoy views towards Ynys Gifftan island and Portmeirion village before crossing another smaller estuary. On our way to Harlech we’ll head along field tracks, then there’s a steep walk up to the castle. You've the option of visiting this must-see UNESCO World Heritage Site or spending time exploring.

Distance: 11.5 miles (18km) 

Ascent: 540ft (160m) 

From Harlech, we’ll weave our way through sand dunes as we head towards one of the most jaw-dropping sandy beaches in Wales. We then ascend steeply and continue down a minor road to Llandanwg, with its quaint medieval church and pebbly beach to explore.   

Following the Artro estuary, we’ll walk on a causeway to Shell Island (so-called for its eye-popping variety of shells) and yet more miles of unspoilt sandy beaches. Be sure to keep a lookout for the wild orchids known to flourish in the area. Our day ends in the village of Talybont.

Each week there is a free day when no guided walks are offered. This is an ideal opportunity to relax around the house, walk independently, or visit local places of interest. Suggested options include: 

Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway 

Established in 1832, this heritage line offers nearly 40 miles of Snowdonia (Eryri) scenery. The Ffestiniog Railway runs from Porthmadog to Tan y Bwlch while the Welsh Highland Railway travels from Caernarvon to Beddgelert. Porthmadog station is a 40-minute drive away. 

Portmeirion 

Designed by celebrated Welsh architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis in the mid-1920s, this Italianate-style coastal village is an hour’s drive away. For walkers, not-to-be missed sights include the Dwyryd Estuary and the subtropical forest known as The Gwyllt. 

Llechwedd Slate Caverns 

A 40-minute drive away, this visitor attraction is best known for its deep mine tour that descends 500 feet underground. Highlights include learning about the subterranean chambers and enjoying a fabulous light and sound display at the underground lake. 

Discover more about Dolserau Hall and the local area for ideas on how to fill your free day.

Distance: 13 miles (21km) 

Ascent: 2,040ft (630m) 

We’ll start in Tai Croesion, near Talybont, where we’ll use the seafront road to take us to Barmouth. We cross the bridge enjoying views over the Mawddach Estuary on our way to Fairbourne, and from here, we’ll have a steep climb to an abandoned slate quarry through forest and open farmland on our way to Llwyngwril village. We’ll wind up at Rhoslefain after admiring the views of Cardigan Bay and Llyn Peninsula. 

Distance: 9 miles (15km) 

Ascent: 410ft (125m) 

From Rhoslefain, we’ll descend through an abandoned quarry to the Dysynni valley and the outskirts of Tywyn. There’ll be plenty of opportunity to soak up the fresh sea air as we stride out along the seafront promenade. We'll continue over dunes and sandy beach for the remaining miles, until we reach the seaside village of Aberdyfi. 

Distance: 11 miles (18km) 

Ascent: 2,260ft (660m) 

We'll set off from Aberdyfi and turn inland where we head into wilder, rolling countryside on our way towards Machynlleth. The path rises steeply through fields and farm tracks to crest a ridge for superb 360-degree views over the estuary. We descend to the Dyfi Valley and continue to the village of Pennal where the path climbs back uphill. After a stretch of path through the forest we begin our final descent to Dyfi Bridge.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.