Counrty parks, Gardens and Woodlands; Snowdonia has some of the most beautiful parks, managed forests and formal gardens

Plas Tan Y Bwich Gardens 4 miles 01766772600 (route map) Picturesque 13 acre Victoria garden in the vale of Ffestiniog, used as a training and study centre. Large wooded gardens open to the public for free. Wonderful sweeping lawns and ornamental ponds, rhododendrons, azaleas and a beautiful water garden. A great spot for peace and tranquillity. There is also a tea room serving cakes and snacks.

Brondanw Estate 7.8 miles 01766772772 (route map) One of Snowdonia's best kept secrets. Formal topiaries, lawns and avenues of trees sit alongside wild woodlands, with a rocky outcrop topped with a ruined tower. Its like entering Alice in Wonderland's fairy tale. BEAUTIFUL. There is a cafe and shop selling a wide range of artisan products made in the surrounding area

Portmeirion 9.1 miles 01766770000 (route map) 70 acres of formal gardens and managed woodland, home to some of Britain's largest trees. A derelict castle, ponds, fountains, exotic plants, rare flowers and breathtaking views across a wide sandy estuary. Along with historic cottages, stylish shops,award winning restaurants, casual cafes and Italian ice cream. a perfect day out. To walk around the many footpaths is like being on a jorney of discovery, little quirks and oddities at every corner. You do have to pay to visit the whole village, and free tours are available in the main season to the Oriental garden.

Coed y brenin 12.1 miles 01341440728 (route map) Awarded Gold by visit wales Coed y Brenin is a fabulous place to visit. There is a great visitors centre, a bike shop, a cafe with a large balcony area, serving home cooked food including their famous venison burger, vegetarian and vegan food and home baked cakes. There are a number of picnic tables by the main car parks,plus more on the way marked trails. There are many beautiful trails to choose from for walking, running, orienteering or geocaching. Eight purpose built mountain bike trails along with a skills area.They have three playgrounds for children, including a "Free play" area where they can make dens and dam streams, and don't forget the Gift shop and running shop.

Gwydir castle and Gardens 18.3 miles 01492641687 (route map) Allegedly one of the most haunted houses in Wales. Gwydir Castle is a Tudor house set in historic gardens, with 16 century arches and walls. The gardens are among a very small number of gardens in Wales with Grade 1 listed status. Complete with peacocks, and famous for its ancient yews (including the Lovers Tree).

Open Easter to October, daily except Mondays and Tuesdays (ex Banks Holidays) 10am- 4pm. Adult £7.00 Concessions  £7.50 Child £3.00

Bodnant Gardens 26.4 miles 01492650460 (route map) Sitting above the river Conwy, in 80 acres of grounds, Bodnant Gardens is one of Uk's most beautiful gardens, with awards to its name. There are terraced gardens, informal lawns, a wild garden set in a river valley, along with many exotic plants from all over the world. You can take your own picnic or use the tea rooms. Visit the craft shop, or just wander around and enjoy.

Parc Glynllifon 27.3 miles 01286831353 (route map) A historic mansion, gardens and country park for the whole family. peaceful forests, Victorian follies, a contemporary slate amphitheater, sculpture trails and several water features which children can play in. There is a gift shop and restaurant or you can take a picnic. Don't forget your camera. Dogs are allowed on leads.

Penrhyn Castle and Gardens 33.3 miles 01248353084 (route map) A country house in the form of a Norman castle, with stunning views over the Menai strait and puffin Island. There are formal, walled and extensive informal gardens, an adventure playground, picnic areas and woodland walks. There is also a narrow gauge railway and one of the finest art collections. For refreshments there is a cafe along with a shop.