7 Night Southern Snowdonia Christmas & New Year Guided Walking Holiday
There’s something magical about winter walks in Wales – especially around Snowdonia (Eryri). Even the name gives off a winter wonderland feel. Make this Christmas truly memorable and spend the festive season at Dolserau Hall – our 17th century manor house in the heart of Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park. We pull out all the stops at this time of year and our houses welcome you with warm festive cheer, seasonal food, and plenty of yuletide treats.
What you’ll love
- Getting into the festive spirit with a guided walking holiday
- A choice of winter walks with our experienced HF Holidays Leaders
- Discovering the stunning landscapes of Southern Snowdonia (Eryri) on foot
- Staying in our country house in Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park
- Enjoying festive fare and leaving all the organising to us
- A celebration dinner with all the trimmings on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve
What’s included
- Comfortable en-suite accommodation in our country house
- Cream tea on arrival day
- Cooked or continental breakfast every morning
- Daily packed lunches
- Three-course evening meals, plus tea & coffee
- Guided walking with experienced HF Holidays Leaders
- Choice of up to three different-grade daily walks
- All transport to and from walks where necessary
- Easy-to-follow routes, maps, and information in our Discovery Point if you want to explore independently
Trip Notes
Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date.
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
See Dates, Prices & Trip Note tab to check which itinerary is running
You're welcome to check in from 4pm onwards. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival.
Option 1 - Panorama Viewpoint & Barmouth
Distance: 4 miles (6½km)
Total ascent: 520 feet (160m)
In summary: Starting just outside Barmouth, we ascend gradually to the Panorama viewpoint above the town, arguably one of the best in Wales. We then descend beside a stream to the estuary and can walk out onto the famous trestle bridge for some sea air and wildlife spotting.
Highlight: The Trestle Bridge across the Mawddach is a great experience looking right up the middle of the estuary.
Option 2 - Over the hills to Barmouth
Distance: 5.5 miles (8.5km)
Total ascent: 1,060 feet (320m)
In summary: Follow the stunning panorama walk above the Mawddach Estuary, heading over the hills to Barmouth.
Highlight: This walk combines spectacular ridge walking with wonderful views of the coast and estuary, and beyond to the Snowdonian (Eryri) mountains.
Option 3 - Bwlch-y-Rhiwgyr Pass
Distance: 8½ miles (13½km)
Ascent: 2,020 ft (620m)
In summary: We ascend from Caerdeon to the Bwlch-y-Rhiwgyr pass, then follow the crest of a wide grassy ridge, with wonderful estuary and coastal views, descending gradually to finish along the beach to Barmouth
Highlight: Superb views over The Mawddach estuary from the Bwlch-y-Rhiwgyr pass.
Option 1 - Brithdir & Torrent Walk
Distance: 4.5 miles (7km)
Ascent: 490 feet (150m)
In summary: An easy circular walk from Dolserau Hall to visit the remains of the Roman fortlet and St Mark's Church in Brithdir. We then walk on one of the most popular paths in the Dolgellau area, Torrent Walk.
Highlight: Enjoy an easy calming walk from the house visiting ancient forts and walking along the river.
Option 2 - Foel Caerynwch and Torrent Walk
Distance: 6 miles (9½km)
Ascent: 1,200 feet (360m)
In summary: A circular walk from the house, we start by walking through the tranquil woods behind the house crossing streams and fields reaching Brithdir. We then ascend up to the summit of Foel Caerynwch where you can take some time to enjoy the views. Following that, we will descend to reach the very interesting St Mark's Church before walking along the river back to the house.
Highlight: Short and easy summit walk with great views at the top and a visit to St Mark's Church.
Option 3 - Roman Road, Foel Caerynwch and Torrent Walk
Distance: 7½ miles (12km)
Ascent: 1,540 feet (480m)
In summary: Leaving the House, we climb gradually through woods to reach a Roman road, then across open moorland to the summit of Foel Caerynwch. We then descend to the road, passing St Marks Church, and descending the Torrent Walk to the House.
Highlight: Roman road, views of the Mawddach Valley and Cader Idris, the Art Nouveau St Marks Church
Option 1 - Old Precipice Walk
Distance: 6 miles (10km)
Total ascent: 450 feet (140m)
In summary: The Precipice Walk is a real classic - a contouring path with amazing views over the Mawddach Estuary and the surrounding mountains (and it's nothing like as scary as the name suggests!).
Highlight: This panoramic trail enjoys wonderful views of Coed y Brenin Forest, the Mawddach Estuary and Cadair Idris.
Option 2 - Coed y Brenin & Old Precipice Walk
Distance: 9 miles (14km)
Total ascent: 2,100 feet (640m)
In summary: Walk from the Coed y Brenin Forest to Dolserau Hall, passing the Rhaeadr Ddu waterfall, ruins of the Glasdir Copper mine, and following the famous Precipice Walk.
Highlight: The 60 foot cascade of Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Waterfall), is one of the most spectacular in Snowdonia (Eryri).
Option 3 - Cader Idris
Distance: 5½miles (9km)
Total ascent: 2,750 feet (850m)
In summary: Follow the Minffordd path up Cader Idris, passing an impressive corrie lake and dramatic ridge. We descend along the Victorian pony track, taking in superb views on our way. Please note that due to operational reasons this walk is limited to 15 guests.
Highlight: Cader Idris is the most impressive mountain in Southern Snowdonia (Eryri); a favourite with many walkers.
The day has been left free for you to relax or explore the local area.
Option 1 - Dolgellau and Glyn Aran
Distance: 7 miles (11½km)
Ascent: 1,150 ft (340m)
In summary: Leaving the House, we walk up the Afon Clywedog , then on quiet lanes and footpaths to descend the Aran valley to Dolgellau. We return to the house on quiet lanes on the other side of the valley.
Highlight: The beautiful Torrent Walk alongside the Afon Clywedog, and an opportunity to explore the historic town of Dolgellau.
Option 2 - Cymer Abbey, Dolgellau and Glyn Aran
Distance: 10 miles (16km)
Ascent: 1,350 ft (460m)
In summary: We walk west along quiet lanes to the site of Cymer Abbey, and into Dolgellau. Leaving Dolgellau, we climb up the Aran valley, and on footpaths and quiet lanes to descend the Clywedog valley to the House
Highlight: A visit to Cymer Abbey, an opportunity to explore historic Dolgellau, and the beautiful Torrent Walk alongside the Afon Clywedog
Option 3 - New Precipice Walk & Dolgellau
Distance: 12 miles (19km)
Ascent: 1,950 feet (560m)
In summary: We walk on quiet lanes down the Mawddach valley to the village of Llanelltyd then climb through woods to the balcony New Precipice Walk, passing abandoned gold mines. Descending through woods, we cross the Afon Mawddach to follow the Mawddach Trail to Dolgellau, then by quiet lanes back to the House.
Highlight: Remains of gold mines, stunning views of Cader Idris and the Mawddach estuary, and a chance to explore historic Dolgellau.
Option 1 - The Ardudwy Coast & Harlech
Distance: 5 miles (8.5km)
Total ascent: 750 feet (240m)
In summary: Today we’ll explore the Ardudwy Coast, visiting the Artro estuary and walking on the delightful beach at Llandanwg. En route we might visit a slate cavern and then continue to Harlech with its impressive castle, built by Edward I in 1283 to control the Welsh.
Highlight: Harlech's impressive castle, built by Edward I.
Option 2 - Along the Coast to Harlech
Distance: 6½ miles (10.5km)
Total ascent: 900 feet (280m)
In summary: Follow the coast from Llanbedr to Harlech. Our walk takes in the delightful beach at Llandanwg, and the rolling hills above the coast.
Highlight: Visit Harlech Castle which commands a wonderful position overlooking the sweeping sands of Cardigan Bay with the mountains of Snowdonia (Eryri) behind.
Option 3 - Bryn Cader Faner
Distance: 9 miles (14½km)
Total ascent: 1,700 feet (520m)
In summary: Walk on the lower slopes of the Rhinogs above the Ardudwy coast. Our walk passes a beautiful lake, and an ancient stone circle before we descend gradually to Harlech.
Highlight: There are great views along the coast, and of Harlech castle on the final leg.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.
See Dates, Prices & Trip Note tab to check which itinerary is running
You're welcome to check in from 4pm onwards. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival.
Option 1 - Dolgellau and Glyn Aran
Distance: 7 miles (11½km)
Ascent: 1,150 ft (340m)
In summary: Leaving the House, we walk up the Afon Clywedog , then on quiet lanes and footpaths to descend the Aran valley to Dolgellau. We return to the house on quiet lanes on the other side of the valley.
Highlight: The beautiful Torrent Walk alongside the Afon Clywedog, and an opportunity to explore the historic town of Dolgellau.
Option 2 - Cymer Abbey, Dolgellau and Glyn Aran
Distance: 10 miles (16km)
Ascent: 1,350 ft (460m)
In summary: We walk west along quiet lanes to the site of Cymer Abbey, and into Dolgellau. Leaving Dolgellau, we climb up the Aran valley, and on footpaths and quiet lanes to descend the Clywedog valley to the House
Highlight: A visit to Cymer Abbey, an opportunity to explore historic Dolgellau, and the beautiful Torrent Walk alongside the Afon Clywedog
Option 3 - New Precipice Walk & Dolgellau
Distance: 12 miles (19km)
Ascent: 1,950 feet (560m)
In summary: We walk on quiet lanes down the Mawddach valley to the village of Llanelltyd then climb through woods to the balcony New Precipice Walk, passing abandoned gold mines. Descending through woods, we cross the Afon Mawddach to follow the Mawddach Trail to Dolgellau, then by quiet lanes back to the House.
Highlight: Remains of gold mines, stunning views of Cader Idris and the Mawddach estuary, and a chance to explore historic Dolgellau.
Option 1 - The Ardudwy Coast & Harlech
Distance: 5 miles (8.5km)
Total ascent: 750 feet (240m)
In summary: Today we’ll explore the Ardudwy Coast, visiting the Artro estuary and walking on the delightful beach at Llandanwg. En route we might visit a slate cavern and then continue to Harlech with its impressive castle, built by Edward I in 1283 to control the Welsh.
Highlight: Harlech's impressive castle, built by Edward I.
Option 2 - Along the Coast to Harlech
Distance: 6½ miles (10.5km)
Total ascent: 900 feet (280m)
In summary: Follow the coast from Llanbedr to Harlech. Our walk takes in the delightful beach at Llandanwg, and the rolling hills above the coast.
Highlight: Visit Harlech Castle which commands a wonderful position overlooking the sweeping sands of Cardigan Bay with the mountains of Snowdonia (Eryri) behind.
Option 3 - Bryn Cader Faner
Distance: 9 miles (14½km)
Total ascent: 1,700 feet (520m)
In summary: Walk on the lower slopes of the Rhinogs above the Ardudwy coast. Our walk passes a beautiful lake, and an ancient stone circle before we descend gradually to Harlech.
Highlight: There are great views along the coast, and of Harlech castle on the final leg.
Discover more about Dolserau Hall and the local area for ideas on how to fill your free day.
Option 1 - Panorama Viewpoint & Barmouth
Distance: 4 miles (6½km)
Total ascent: 520 feet (160m)
In summary: Starting just outside Barmouth, we ascend gradually to the Panorama viewpoint above the town, arguably one of the best in Wales. We then descend beside a stream to the estuary and can walk out onto the famous trestle bridge for some sea air and wildlife spotting.
Highlight: The Trestle Bridge across the Mawddach is a great experience looking right up the middle of the estuary.
Option 2 - Over the hills to Barmouth
Distance: 5.5 miles (8.5km)
Total ascent: 1,060 feet (320m)
In summary: Follow the stunning panorama walk above the Mawddach Estuary, heading over the hills to Barmouth.
Highlight: This walk combines spectacular ridge walking with wonderful views of the coast and estuary, and beyond to the Snowdonian (Eryri) mountains.
Option 3 - Bwlch-y-Rhiwgyr Pass
Distance: 8½ miles (13½km)
Ascent: 2,020 ft (620m)
In summary: We ascend from Caerdeon to the Bwlch-y-Rhiwgyr pass, then follow the crest of a wide grassy ridge, with wonderful estuary and coastal views, descending gradually to finish along the beach to Barmouth
Highlight: Superb views over The Mawddach estuary from the Bwlch-y-Rhiwgyr pass.
Option 1 - Brithdir & Torrent Walk
Distance: 4.5 miles (7km)
Ascent: 490 feet (150m)
In summary: An easy circular walk from Dolserau Hall to visit the remains of the Roman fortlet and St Mark's Church in Brithdir. We then walk on one of the most popular paths in the Dolgellau area, Torrent Walk.
Highlight: Enjoy an easy calming walk from the house visiting ancient forts and walking along the river.
Option 2 - Foel Caerynwch and Torrent Walk
Distance: 6 miles (9½km)
Ascent: 1,200 feet (360m)
In summary: A circular walk from the house, we start by walking through the tranquil woods behind the house crossing streams and fields reaching Brithdir. We then ascend up to the summit of Foel Caerynwch where you can take some time to enjoy the views. Following that, we will descend to reach the very interesting St Mark's Church before walking along the river back to the house.
Highlight: Short and easy summit walk with great views at the top and a visit to St Mark's Church.
Option 3 - Roman Road, Foel Caerynwch and Torrent Walk
Distance: 7½ miles (12km)
Ascent: 1,540 feet (480m)
In summary: Leaving the House, we climb gradually through woods to reach a Roman road, then across open moorland to the summit of Foel Caerynwch. We then descend to the road, passing St Marks Church, and descending the Torrent Walk to the House.
Highlight: Roman road, views of the Mawddach Valley and Cader Idris, the Art Nouveau St Marks Church
Option 1 - Old Precipice Walk
Distance: 6 miles (10km)
Total ascent: 450 feet (140m)
In summary: The Precipice Walk is a real classic - a contouring path with amazing views over the Mawddach Estuary and the surrounding mountains (and it's nothing like as scary as the name suggests!).
Highlight: This panoramic trail enjoys wonderful views of Coed y Brenin Forest, the Mawddach Estuary and Cadair Idris.
Option 2 - Coed y Brenin & Old Precipice Walk
Distance: 9 miles (14km)
Total ascent: 2,100 feet (640m)
In summary: Walk from the Coed y Brenin Forest to Dolserau Hall, passing the Rhaeadr Ddu waterfall, ruins of the Glasdir Copper mine, and following the famous Precipice Walk.
Highlight: The 60 foot cascade of Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Waterfall), is one of the most spectacular in Snowdonia (Eryri).
Option 3 - Cader Idris
Distance: 5½miles (9km)
Total ascent: 2,750 feet (850m)
In summary: Follow the Minffordd path up Cader Idris, passing an impressive corrie lake and dramatic ridge. We descend along the Victorian pony track, taking in superb views on our way. Please note that due to operational reasons this walk is limited to 15 guests.
Highlight: Cader Idris is the most impressive mountain in Southern Snowdonia (Eryri); a favourite with many walkers.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.
Dolserau Hall
Arresting countryside views dominate at this characterful Victorian manor house at the southern end of Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park. The location is idyllic; think ancient woods and craggy uplands in all directions (parts of the park served as the inspiration for Middle Earth in JRR Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings). There’s no shortage of things to do, either, including following the Mawddach Trail along the edge of the Mawddach Estuary, discovering the compact range of hills known as the Rhinogs, and climbing the rugged foothills of Cader Idris – the highest mountain in southern Snowdonia (Eryri) at 893 metres. You’ll also be close to Dolgellau, the small market town best known for its once flourishing woollen industry (ruins of the Pandy fulling mills used to remove fats and grease from the wool cloth can still be seen along the Afon Aran River).
Rooms
Designed with your comfort in mind, Dolserau Hall has 23 well-appointed guest rooms available in two categories: Classic and Premium.
Classic Rooms are comfortable en-suite guest rooms, ideal for a peaceful night's sleep. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, and shower gel), and a TV.
Premium Rooms are more spacious en-suite guest rooms. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers, and comfortable mattresses.
We love: The rooms in the main house or converted coach house. Some come with standout views of Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park.
The Choose Your Room service is available at our UK country houses, allowing you the option of choosing and confirming a specific room for an extra charge of £30 per room. This is subject to availability. Upgrade supplements apply.
Check in & check out
You are welcome to check in from 4:00pm at the earliest. On arrival, you’ll enjoy a complimentary cream tea and get to meet your fellow guests, our HF Holidays Leaders, and the rest of the friendly team.
On the day of departure, we kindly ask all guests to check out by 10:00am. You’ll be asked to settle your bill prior to leaving. You may, of course, make a charitable donation to our HF Holidays Pathways Fund if you wish. Please note that we only accept card payments.
Room supplements
| Premium single | Premium double/twin | Choose your room |
| £20 pppn | £20 pppn | £30 per room |
About your stay
A warm welcome
We want you to feel comfortable from the moment you arrive. You’ll find a welcome pack in your room with guest registration forms, menus, order forms for dinners and picnic lunches, the Wi-Fi password, and the front door code. Our houses are locked at night, so we recommend noting the Duty Manager’s number on arrival in case of an emergency (or getting locked out).
Evening entertainment
While evening entertainment varies from house to house, the HF Holidays Big Pub Quiz held after dinner on Wednesdays is a weekly staple. Your HF Holidays Leader may be around for tips on guided and self-guided walking routes as well as visit-worthy local attractions.
Walks talks
Our HF Holidays Leaders host guided walking information briefings before dinner on arrival days. This is followed by a group Walks Talk for information on the following day’s walking delights (held before dinner every evening). Self-guided walking guests are, of course, welcome.
The walking day
Prior to setting off on walks, your HF Holidays Leader will run you through a short safety briefing. There’s also an up-to-date weather forecast on display at the house to ensure you have appropriate clothing and footwear. If you choose to do your own walks or are on a self-guided walking holiday, we ask that you please complete an Independent Walker Card each day. These can be found near the Discovery Point in the house.
Food & drink
Led by experienced chefs, we serve a wide range of dishes made with fresh and seasonal ingredients. We always aim to source the best produce available and use home-grown herbs and vegetables from our own gardens whenever possible. Additionally, we have a licensed bar with beers, soft drinks, and a superb selection of spirits. Full-board comes as standard and includes a cream tea on arrival and a hearty breakfast on departure day.
HF Holidays understands the importance of managing allergens effectively to ensure food is safe for guests with food allergies. Whilst we are always able to confidently inform guests which allergens are present in our ingredients and dishes, we are unable to guarantee absolute freedom from the 14 main allergens in our kitchens. Vegetarian and vegan menu choices are available. If you have allergies, food intolerances, or any special dietary requirements, please inform our reservation team at the time of booking.
Accessibility
For accessibility and assistance information, please contact our expert team on 020 3974 8865 or view the accessibility information online for Dolserau Hall
Getting to Dolserau Hall
Find out more about this location including travel details and room types.
More InformationEssential information
The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather that’s sunny one minute and raining the next. To make it easier, here’s a list of items you should consider packing.
Essentials
- Suitable footwear such as waterproof walking boots that provide ankle support and good grip
- Waterproof and windproof jacket, preferably insulated
- Comfortable clothing (jeans & waterproof capes are not suitable)
- Waterproof overtrousers
- Gloves and a warm hat (or sunhat)
- Rucksack
- Water bottle (at least 1 litre capacity)
- A small torch
- Sunscreen
- Mobile phone and portable charger
- Watch
- UV sunglasses
Recommended
- Several base layers (long-sleeve or short-sleeve)
- Cushioned walking socks to avoid blisters
- First aid kit, including plasters and insect repellent
- Sit mat
- Spare pair of socks
- Energy snacks
- Waterproof pouch for valuables
- Rubbish bag (remember to always leave no trace)
- Wallet/purse
Optional extras
- Walking poles, useful for descents
- Flask for hot drinks
- Durable lunch box
- Gaiters
- Blister kit
- Waterproof rucksack liner
- Head torch
- GPS device
Dolserau Hall Calendar
- Guided Walking
- Self-Guided Walking
- Special Interests
- Unavailable to Book
Guest reviews
All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.
Non-member fee: £30 per person.
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
Holiday prices
| Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | ||||||||
|
23 Dec - 30 Dec 2024 7 nights |
Christmas Single from £1,425 Double from £1,425 pp |
from £1,425 pp |
from £1,425 |
Trip Notes | Book Now | |||
|
27 Dec 2024 - 03 Jan 2025 7 nights |
New Year Single from £1,289 Double from £1,289 pp |
from £1,289 pp |
from £1,289 |
Trip Notes | Book Now | |||
