Cae Garw CottageNational Trust Properties and attractions on the Lleyn Peninsula.
Plas yn Rhiw (10 mins drive)
An attraction close to Cae Garw cottage is Plas yn Rhiw - a small manor house near Rhiw mountain, which was lovingly restored by the three Keating sisters in 1938.
With an exceptional views towards Abersoch and Pwllheli - over a 4 mile stretch of beach called Hell's Mouth Bay it has a delightful ornamental garden with box hedges and grass paths, and is the only organic National Trust gardens in Wales. A Snowdrop woodland, bluebell walks, as well as Easter Egg trails and a Spring plant fair ensures varied activities for all ages throughout most of the year.
Guided walks through scenic and unforgettable woodlands are availble during the summer, and there is a small shop selling National Trust items and plants.
It was near here - at a cottage called Sarn y Plas - that the poet R S Thomas lived for more than 20 years- he was famous for his works about faith, nature, the Welsh countryside and the landscape.
Craflwyn
Situated at the foot of Snowdon in the Nantgwynant valley and near the village of Beddgelert - the historic Craflwyn estate has undergone much careful restoration in the last few years. Dating back to 1200 AD , having been part of a monastery and a Victorian hunting lodge, it is set in a 200 acre woodland estate with winding footpaths, dramatic waterfalls and hidden gardens.
Following a substantial funding, this area underwent a massive amount of reclamation work as giant rhodedendron trees and bushes were cleared from the grounds.This led to the discovery of man-made water falls on the old estate and old paths, which and are now being restored.
Guided waks available during main season.
Plas Newydd (60 mins drive)Home of the Marquess of Anglesey
Home of the Marquess of Anglesey, Plas Newydd is situated on the banks of the Menai Strait , with a fabulous woodland walk along the bank of the Menai.
Redisigned in the 18th Century, it houses one of Rex Whistler largest painting which spans the whole of one interior wall, as well as an exhibition about his work. A military museum contains historic details of the 1st Marquess of Anglesey, who commanded the cavalry at the Battle of Waterloo.
The immaculate grounds host an Australasian arboretum, with colour throughout the year. Historical cruises and boat trips on the Menai Strait operate from the property - weather and tide permitting.
Penrhyn Castle ( 60 mins drive)
Situated near Bangor this neo-Norman 19th Century castle lies between Snowdonia and the Menai Straits. With 45 acres of ground and a Victorian walled garden , you can tour the inside of the castle with its Victorian kitchen, a fabulous collection of paintings, as well as a 1ton slate bed made especially for Queen Victoria.
The stable blocks house an industrial Railway Museum, as well as a model railway and a 19th century collection of dolls. There is an excellent National Trust shop, local art exhibitions and cafe.
Bodnant Gardens
Situated above the River Conwy, Bodnant gardens is set in some 80 acres, being one of the most beautiful gardens in the UK. Bodnant is most famous for its breeding programme of varieties of Rhododendrons and azaleas , which are now grown throughout the world. Also noted are the collections of Magnolia, Camellia, Clematis and Hydrangea.
The garden is split into two sections, a formal upper part, with Terraced gardens, and curved pergolas, and the wild lower part sweeping towards the Conway river.
The Garden Nursery, and the Plant and Gift Centre and Craft Studios, are located adjacent to the Garden. The nursery sells a wide range of plants, and the Gift Shop has a wonderful range of goods for temptation!
The Bodnant tea room offers light lunches and teas freshly made to order
(Click here for outside link to www.nationaltrust.org .)
