Find the Best Dolgellau Bed and Breakfast

The ancient market town of Dolgellau lies along the River Wnion, in north-west Wales. The beautiful jumble of stone and slate cottages sits along the foothills of Cader Idris, a soaring mountain in Snowdonia, and is surrounded by woodland that bursts into bright colours during autumn. Most people come to stay in Dolgellau bed and breakfasts to use them as a base for exploring the national park. Whether you're after bracing hikes through the mountains and forests, or adrenaline-inducing mountain biking courses, you've come to the right place. When you return to town in the afternoon, you can settle in to one of the cosy pubs or restaurants for a drink and a bite to eat.

• Score a break in Snowdonia without the high hotel prices
• Be a stone's throw from the hiking trails
• Stay with friendly owners, many of whom have run their B&Bs for years
• Kick off the day with a hearty Welsh breakfast

Chocolate-Box Stone Cottage B&Bs, Dolgellau

The bed and breakfasts in Dolgellau are a serious cut above the rest and have long been the staple accommodation of choice for visitors. Friendly hosts, a welcoming ambience and cosy guestrooms are just a few of the things you can expect from a B&B. Plus, if you throw in the cost difference compared to a hotel, it's unsurprising that they attract guests back year after year. If you're looking for chocolate-box stone cottages covered in creeping ivy and surrounded by private gardens, you've come to the right place. Some are found in the centre of town, near the bustling main street. Others overlook the winding river. Others, still, are dotted in the wooded valley just outside the town, just a short walk from the hiking trails. Whatever you're after, you can always find what you're looking for on Expedia, which lists every property, along with detailed descriptions and photos. All you need to do is fire up the site and filter the results using your dates, location and budget. Booking your Welsh break just got a whole lot easier.

Checking into your Dolgellau bed and breakfast is always a breeze, thanks to your friendly hosts. While you are settling into your guestroom, you can make use of the facilities, which often include things like a kettle for making hot drinks and a flat-screen TV on the wall. When you return from a day of hiking, you can slip into your ensuite bathroom, which usually comes stocked with fresh towels and toiletries. Don't forget to bring the dogs with you on your outdoorsy adventure – there are several B&Bs that are pet friendly. Alternatively, score one of the family-sized rooms and bring the kids along. Take some time to chat with the hosts, as many have been running their B&Bs for years and can offer advice on the best things to do and see in the area. After a comfortable night's sleep, you can fuel up for the day on a hearty Welsh breakfast, or lighter bites, like toast and fruit. Looking for a city break instead? Maybe a few days in the Welsh capital, exploring the many things to do in Cardiff, might be more your scene.

Family Fun on the Beach and Pier Near Your B&B, Dolgellau

It's true that most people come to stay in Dolgellau bed and breakfasts to take advantage of the long list of outdoor activities. Many of the hiking and mountain biking trails start right from the doorstop of your B&B. Those looking for a challenge shouldn't miss clambering up to the summit of Cader Idris, which offers some panoramic views over the town and the rest of Snowdonia. There's more to be found at the Coed Y Brenin Visitor Centre, the gateway to a forested park packed with biking trails – they range from beginners' green runs to more challenging black slalom courses. Don't worry if you haven't brought your bicycle, you can always pick up a rental while you're there.