Blaenau Ffestiniog

Slate tips tower like grey pyramids across this former quarrying town, creating an almost lunar landscape that's both stark and strangely beautiful. Blaenau Ffestiniog wears its industrial heritage proudly - the scars left by centuries of slate extraction have become part of its wild appeal.

The surrounding peaks tell the real story here. Moelwyn Bach and Craigysgafn rise dramatically from the town centre, while Moel-yr-hydd offers proper hill walking for those who fancy a challenge. These aren't your typical Welsh mountain climbs - they're rougher, more industrial, with the ghostly remains of quarry workings adding an eerie atmosphere to the ascent.

Getting here feels like a journey back in time. The narrow-gauge railway still runs from the coast, stopping at Tanygrisiau before reaching the town. It's a lovely way to arrive, watching the landscape grow more dramatic with each mile. Roman Bridge station to the east connects you to the broader rail network if you're coming by train.

What strikes you most is the silence. Midweek, the streets can feel almost deserted, but that's part of the charm. This isn't a place that panders to tourists - it simply exists, honest and uncompromising.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense. Conwy Valley Touring Park sits well-positioned for exploring the area, while several glamping options have popped up recently. From any base here, you're within striking distance of both the coastal resorts and the heart of Snowdonia. The historic site at Cwm-fynhadog Uchaf is worth seeking out, and the train stations at Dolwyddelan offer access to even more remote walking territory.