Situated on the Cardigan Bay shore of the Lynn peninsula in the northwest of Wales, Cricciethis known as ‘The Pearl Of Wales On The Shores Of Snowdonia’ and more than lives up to this spectacular description thanks to its setting. The views it offers, and the appeal of its south facing aspect, are enough to place a very warm glow inside you. The shoreline itself is divided in two by a rocky outcrop and the ruins of Criccieth castle sit on this outcrop.
Criccieth CastleTowering over the rest of the landscape, the castle offers a chance to explore the past at the same time as soaking in stunning views both out to sea and back over Snowdonia National Park. The castle itself was first built in 1230 and has been altered and adapted by various people through the years until being partially torn and burned down in 1404. The surviving buildings still show some of the scars of this event. The castle houses displays and exhibits documenting the history of Welsh castles.
Beaches in CricciethThe outcrop upon which Cricciethcastle is situated acts as a natural dividing point between its two beaches, both of which have their own distinct ambience and appeal.
To the west you will find Marine Beach, which is made up mainly of pebbles. East of the outcrop is the larger beach, usually regarded as Criccieths’ main beach. This consists of pebbles and sand and offers stunning views of the sea itself and the mountains of the Welsh coast. Families will relish the chance to swim, relax on the beach and explore the aquatic wildlife present in the rock pools within easy walking distance. As an added bonus, the temperate climate of the bay means that both of the beaches often play host to visits from dolphins.
LandmarksCriccieth is small enough to successfully explore on foot and offers striking architectural landmarks besides the aforementioned castle. These include a Lifeboat Station which was built in 1854 and is still operating today, thanks to a volunteer crew of 17 and the lifeboat Doris Joan. The old town offers fascinating glimpses of the past in the form of structures like 17th century farm buildings, and, on Wellington Terrace, a trio of 600 year old cottages which are the oldest in Criccieth.
Around CricciethThe location of Criccieth, on the very edge of Snowdonia, makes it an excellent base for exploring the some of the most spectacular scenery that Waleshas to offer. The National Park itself provides stunning scenery and, in the form of Snowdonia, the highest mountain in England and Wales. More energetic visitors can walk to the top, whilst those taking it easy may opt to ride the train up. Once at the peak, wonderful views in all directions include, on a clear day, the chance to see as far as Ireland.
Other attractions nearby include Portmeirion, the Mediterranean style village used in cult sixties television programme ‘The Prisoner’, and Llanystumdwy, the village where British Prime Minister David Lloyd George grew up.
Whether you want to soak up the sun on the beach, explore the mountains and hills on your doorstep or delve into the history of this archetypal Welsh community, the hotels, guesthouses and campsites of Cricciethoffer the perfect base from which to explore.